Operations Manager Dies After Blow to Head

An experienced operations manager for a well servicing company died after being hit in the head with a length of pipe. The pipe was fastened to the top of a skid-mounted pump. The pump was being used to pump cement into a well, then force water into the hole to displace the cement down to 10,000 feet (3,048 meters).

The victim was looking into the pump’s mixing tank, observing the notches indicating how much water had been forced into the well. After about 20 barrels of water had been pumped, there was a loud noise. Excessive pressure caused the improperly-secured pipe to flip up and hit the worker in the upper left side of the head.

Pipes used in pressurized situations must always be properly secured. Pump operators should follow a checklist to make sure appropriate steps are taken when installing components. This will ensure all necessary tasks are completed and equipment is in the correct configuration.