Pull Back Chain Failures

In recent weeks we have been made aware of several instances in which pull back chains or ropes failed whilst tripping a drill string. None of the cases resulted in injury but all resulted in varying degrees of equipment damage.

Pull back ropes are relatively simple to inspect, but roller chains are significantly more complex. In addition to which, the many moving parts in a chain are subject to accelerated wear through rust and other environmental conditions.

We would therefore like to remind all users of top drive drill rigs that incorporate pull back chains or ropes to re-examine their inspection and replacement procedures and to ensure that loads are kept well within the Safe Working Limit of the chain or rope.

PULL BACK CHAIN FAILURE: This is what happens when a pullback chain breaks! Thankfully the drillers escaped injury in this instance.

📌 REMINDER: All users of top drive drill rigs that incorporate pull back chains or ropes, must re-examine inspection and replacement procedures and ensure that loads are kept well within the Safe Working Limit of the chain or rope.

This video was sent to DrillSafe via WhatsApp in the interests of improving safety awareness. DrillSafe does not endorse any company products, contractor or practice. All information posted on DrillSafe is posted with the sole intent of improving awareness and safety performance, thereby reducing injuries on drill sites.