Derrick Hand Onboarding Checklist

Derrick Hand Onboarding Process

Are you looking for help setting up a staff orientation process so that when your new Derrick Hand starts their role, they can learn about their responsibilities and your company as quickly as possible? Whether you’re keen to use buddy onboarding, want to automate your Trades onboarding experience or just need an onboarding checklist for your new Derrick Hand, you’re in the right place. We’ve put together a sample Derrick Hand onboarding checklist below and have created onboarding templates & resources to help.

Derrick Hand Onboarding Checklist

1. Safety Training: The derrick hand is responsible for working on drilling rigs and handling heavy equipment, so safety training is crucial. This task involves providing comprehensive safety training to the new derrick hand, including instruction on proper use of personal protective equipment, emergency procedures, and safe work practices. The company’s safety officer or a designated safety trainer typically performs this task.

2. Equipment Familiarization: As a derrick hand, it is essential to be familiar with the various equipment used on drilling rigs. This task involves introducing the new employee to the different types of drilling equipment, their functions, and how to operate them safely. The derrick hand supervisor or an experienced derrick hand usually performs this task.

3. Rig Inspection: Before starting any drilling operations, it is crucial to inspect the rig for any potential hazards or maintenance issues. The new derrick hand should be trained on how to conduct a thorough rig inspection, including checking for loose bolts, damaged equipment, and potential safety hazards. The derrick hand supervisor or an experienced derrick hand typically performs this task.

4. Rigging and Lifting Procedures: Rigging and lifting heavy equipment is a common task for a derrick hand. This task involves training the new employee on proper rigging techniques, including selecting the appropriate slings, hooks, and chains, as well as understanding load capacities and weight distribution. The derrick hand supervisor or an experienced derrick hand usually performs this task.

5. Drill Pipe Handling: Handling drill pipes safely and efficiently is a critical aspect of a derrick hand’s job. This task involves training the new employee on how to handle, connect, and disconnect drill pipes, as well as how to inspect them for damage or wear. The derrick hand supervisor or an experienced derrick hand typically performs this task.

6. Emergency Response Training: In the event of an emergency, it is crucial for the derrick hand to know how to respond quickly and effectively. This task involves providing training on emergency response procedures, including fire safety, evacuation protocols, and first aid. The company’s safety officer or a designated safety trainer typically performs this task.

7. Communication and Radio Usage: Effective communication is vital on drilling rigs, especially when coordinating tasks and ensuring safety. This task involves training the new derrick hand on proper radio usage, including radio etiquette, emergency communication protocols, and understanding common drilling rig terminology. The derrick hand supervisor or an experienced derrick hand usually performs this task.

8. Environmental Awareness: As part of their job, derrick hands must be aware of and comply with environmental regulations and best practices. This task involves providing training on environmental awareness, including spill prevention, waste management, and proper disposal of hazardous materials. The company’s environmental officer or a designated environmental trainer typically performs this task.

9. Teamwork and Collaboration: Working effectively as part of a team is crucial in the trades industry. This task involves fostering a sense of teamwork and collaboration among the new derrick hand and their colleagues. It may include team-building exercises, communication workshops, and promoting a positive work culture. The derrick hand supervisor or a designated team leader typically performs this task.

10. Job-Specific Training: Depending on the specific tasks and responsibilities of the derrick hand within the company, additional job-specific training may be required. This task involves providing specialized training on any unique equipment, procedures, or industry-specific requirements relevant to the company’s operations. The derrick hand supervisor or an experienced derrick hand with expertise in the specific area typically performs this task

Setting Up Your Employee Onboarding Process

From reading through the items in the example Derrick Hand checklist above, you’ll now have an idea of how you can apply best practices to getting your new Derrick Hand up to speed and working well in your Trades team. Scroll up to see the link to our onboarding templates & resources or get in touch to discuss getting help setting up your systems and processes in this area.