Columnist Thomas Kwader shares his perspectives on safety within the industry
Today’s drill rigs are much safer than the industry standard even 10 years ago. Hydraulic motors, which are more powerful and safer than moving heavy equipment with chains, cables and belts, do most of the work. In the past, one of the qualifications to be a driller or especially a helper was size and strength of the individual. Today, it is possible to be a 90-pound weakling and lift and tighten drill rods and move other heavy objects.