Top 12 Floor Hand Skills to Put on Your Resume
Crafting a compelling resume as a floor hand requires highlighting a unique set of skills that showcase your proficiency in the demanding and dynamic environment of oil rigs and drilling sites. By focusing on the top skills that demonstrate your ability to efficiently and safely contribute to operations, you can set yourself apart in the competitive job market.
Floor Hand Skills
- Rigging
- Derrick
- Mud Systems
- Iron Roughneck
- Pipe Handling
- Blowout Preventers
- Top Drive Systems
- Well Control
- Shale Shakers
- Power Tongs
- Elevators (Oilfield)
- Drawworks
1. Rigging
Rigging, in the context of a Floor Hand, refers to the setup, operation, and maintenance of the equipment and machinery used on a drilling rig. This includes handling and securing drilling pipes, tools, and other equipment necessary for the drilling operation.
Why It's Important
Rigging is crucial for a Floor Hand as it ensures the safe and efficient handling, lifting, and positioning of heavy equipment and materials on drilling sites, preventing accidents and facilitating smooth operations.
How to Improve Rigging Skills
Improving rigging skills, especially for a Floor Hand, involves a combination of safety training, hands-on experience, and continuous learning. Here’s a concise guide:
Safety Training: Begin with comprehensive safety training to understand the protocols and equipment. OSHA provides guidelines and courses on safe rigging practices.
Certifications: Obtain relevant certifications. The National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO) offers recognized rigger certifications.
Hands-On Experience: Practical experience is key. Work closely with experienced riggers to gain insights and improve skills.
Continuing Education: Engage in continuous learning through workshops, online courses, and seminars. Platforms like Coursera and Udemy offer courses related to rigging and heavy machinery operation.
Mentorship: Seek mentorship from seasoned riggers. Their experience can provide valuable shortcuts to mastering rigging skills.
Practice Safety: Always prioritize safety and adhere to protocols. Regularly review safety manuals and guidelines relevant to rigging operations.
Stay Updated: Stay informed about the latest technologies and techniques in rigging by following industry publications and joining professional networks.
By following these steps and actively engaging in learning opportunities, a Floor Hand can significantly improve their rigging skills and contribute to safer, more efficient operations on the rig.
How to Display Rigging Skills on Your Resume
2. Derrick
A derrick, in the context of a Floor Hand's work, is a tall tower-like structure on an oil rig used for hoisting and positioning equipment, such as drilling machinery and pipes, during the drilling process.
Why It's Important
Derrick is important because it provides the necessary structure for handling drilling equipment and pipes, crucial for the floor hand in efficiently executing drilling operations and ensuring safety on the rig.
How to Improve Derrick Skills
To improve as a Floor Hand named Derrick, focus on the following key areas with concise strategies:
Safety Training: Enhance safety knowledge and practices. Participate in OSHA safety courses to understand industry standards.
Technical Skills: Improve technical skills relevant to drilling operations. PetroSkills offers specialized courses for the oil and gas industry.
Physical Fitness: Maintain physical fitness to meet the demands of the job. Incorporate a mix of strength, endurance, and flexibility exercises. Resources like Bodybuilding.com provide tailored workout plans.
Team Communication: Develop effective communication skills. Toastmasters International can help improve public speaking and teamwork abilities.
Problem-Solving: Enhance problem-solving skills. Engage in training that focuses on critical thinking and quick decision-making, such as Coursera’s Critical Thinking courses.
By focusing on these areas, Derrick can significantly improve his performance and contributions as a Floor Hand.
How to Display Derrick Skills on Your Resume
3. Mud Systems
Mud systems in the context of a floor hand refer to the circulation and management of drilling fluid (mud) used in drilling operations, crucial for lubricating the drill bit, stabilizing the wellbore, and transporting cuttings to the surface.
Why It's Important
Mud systems are crucial in drilling operations as they lubricate and cool the drill bit, remove cuttings from the well, maintain well pressure to prevent blowouts, and stabilize the wellbore walls. For a Floor Hand, understanding and managing the mud system is vital for ensuring the safety and efficiency of drilling operations.
How to Improve Mud Systems Skills
Improving mud systems on a drilling rig involves optimizing the properties and maintenance of the drilling fluid to ensure efficient drilling operations. As a Floor Hand, your focus should be on:
Routine Monitoring: Regularly check the mud weight, viscosity, and pH levels. Mud checks are crucial for maintaining the right properties for drilling efficiency and equipment safety.
Contaminant Management: Quickly identify and remove contaminants like cuttings and gas. Using solids control equipment can help in efficiently filtering out unwanted particles.
Equipment Maintenance: Regularly inspect and maintain mud pumps, shakers, and other related equipment to ensure they are in good working condition. Preventative maintenance can prevent breakdowns and non-productive time.
Effective Communication: Report any anomalies in mud properties or equipment performance to the Mud Engineer or Driller. Clear communication ensures timely adjustments and interventions.
Safety and Training: Adhere to safety protocols and participate in training programs to stay updated on best practices in handling drilling fluids and related equipment.
By focusing on these areas, Floor Hands can contribute significantly to the efficiency and safety of mud systems on drilling rigs.
How to Display Mud Systems Skills on Your Resume
4. Iron Roughneck
An Iron Roughneck is an automated machine used on a drilling rig to connect and disconnect segments of the drill pipe, significantly reducing the manual labor traditionally performed by floor hands.
Why It's Important
The Iron Roughneck is important because it automates the dangerous and physically demanding tasks of connecting and disconnecting drill pipe sections on oil rigs, significantly enhancing safety and efficiency for Floor Hands.
How to Improve Iron Roughneck Skills
To enhance the efficiency and safety of an Iron Roughneck, especially from a Floor Hand's perspective, consider the following concise strategies:
Regular Maintenance: Ensure routine checks and maintenance to prevent mechanical failures. Maintenance Guide.
Training Programs: Invest in comprehensive training programs for Floor Hands to improve their operational skills and safety awareness. Training Resources.
Ergonomic Design Updates: Modify or upgrade to models with ergonomic designs that reduce physical strain on the Floor Hand. Ergonomic Solutions.
Technology Integration: Incorporate advanced technologies like remote control operations and automated systems to minimize manual handling. Automation in Drilling.
Safety Gear: Ensure the use of appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) to protect against common hazards. PPE Guidelines.
Communication Tools: Implement efficient communication tools for better coordination and emergency response. Communication in Drilling Operations.
By focusing on these areas, Floor Hands can significantly improve the operation, safety, and efficiency of Iron Roughnecks in drilling operations.
How to Display Iron Roughneck Skills on Your Resume
5. Pipe Handling
Pipe handling refers to the process of moving, positioning, and securing pipes used in drilling operations, a task often managed by a Floor Hand on a drilling rig. This includes assembling, disassembling, and ensuring the safe and efficient handling of drill pipes, casings, and other tubular materials during drilling activities.
Why It's Important
Pipe handling is crucial for a Floor Hand because it ensures the safe and efficient movement and placement of pipes during drilling operations, preventing accidents, equipment damage, and downtime.
How to Improve Pipe Handling Skills
Improving pipe handling, especially for a Floor Hand on a drilling rig, involves enhancing safety, efficiency, and technique. Here are concise strategies:
Enhance Training: Ensure comprehensive safety and operational training for all floor hands, focusing on pipe handling procedures and best practices.
Utilize Proper Equipment: Invest in and properly maintain pipe handling equipment like elevators, slips, and tongs to reduce manual handling and improve safety.
Implement Ergonomic Practices: Adopt ergonomic techniques to minimize strain during manual handling, including correct lifting methods and using mechanical aids whenever possible.
Enforce Safety Protocols: Strictly adhere to safety protocols and personal protective equipment (PPE) requirements, ensuring all floor hands are equipped to handle pipes safely.
Regular Maintenance and Inspection: Schedule regular maintenance and inspection of all pipe handling equipment to prevent malfunctions and accidents. API guidelines offer standards for equipment upkeep.
Communication and Teamwork: Promote clear communication and teamwork among the crew, ensuring coordinated efforts during pipe handling operations.
By focusing on these areas, floor hands can significantly improve pipe handling safety and efficiency on the rig floor.
How to Display Pipe Handling Skills on Your Resume
6. Blowout Preventers
Blowout Preventers (BOPs) are high-pressure safety devices installed on drilling rigs to seal, control, and monitor oil and gas wells, preventing blowouts by closing off the well hole in emergency situations or during maintenance. Essential for a Floor Hand, they play a crucial role in ensuring safety and operational integrity on the rig floor.
Why It's Important
Blowout Preventers (BOPs) are critical for a Floor Hand because they help prevent uncontrolled release of underground fluids (oil, gas, and water) during drilling operations, ensuring the safety of the crew and equipment.
How to Improve Blowout Preventers Skills
To improve Blowout Preventers (BOPs), focus on the following key aspects:
Regular Maintenance: Conduct periodic inspections and maintenance to ensure all components are functioning correctly. API provides standards and recommended practices for BOP maintenance.
Training: Ensure floor hands and crew are well-trained in BOP operation and emergency response procedures. IADC offers courses and certifications.
Technological Upgrades: Implement the latest technology in BOP systems, including real-time monitoring and remote-control capabilities. NOV provides advanced BOP systems with these features.
System Integration: Ensure BOPs are fully integrated with the drilling rig's overall safety and control systems for efficient response to emergencies. Schlumberger discusses integration solutions.
Compliance: Follow industry standards and regulations set by organizations like BSEE to ensure the BOP system meets all safety and operational requirements.
By focusing on these areas, floor hands can contribute to the improved functionality and safety of Blowout Preventers.
How to Display Blowout Preventers Skills on Your Resume
7. Top Drive Systems
Top Drive Systems are advanced drilling equipment used on drilling rigs to rotate the drill string from the top, enhancing safety, efficiency, and speed during drilling operations. For a Floor Hand, this means less manual labor in making and breaking connections of the drill pipe, as the top drive automates these processes.
Why It's Important
Top Drive Systems are important because they enhance drilling efficiency, safety, and versatility. For a Floor Hand, this means less manual labor, reduced risk of accidents, and a smoother operation on the drill floor.
How to Improve Top Drive Systems Skills
Improving Top Drive Systems, especially from a Floor Hand perspective, involves focusing on maintenance, safety, and operational efficiency. Here are concise strategies:
Regular Maintenance: Ensure routine checks and maintenance of the top drive system to prevent downtime. API guidelines provide standards for maintenance practices.
Safety Training: Enhance safety through continuous training on top drive operations and emergency response. OSHA offers resources on workplace safety.
Operational Efficiency: Implement best practices for drilling operations to maximize the efficiency of top drive systems. IADC provides operational guidelines.
Technological Upgrades: Stay updated with the latest technology improvements in top drive systems for better performance. Reading materials from SPE can be insightful.
Communication: Foster clear communication among the drilling crew to ensure smooth operations and address issues promptly.
By focusing on these areas, a Floor Hand can contribute to the improved functionality and safety of Top Drive Systems.
How to Display Top Drive Systems Skills on Your Resume
8. Well Control
Well control in the context of a Floor Hand refers to the practices and procedures employed to maintain the pressure balance within a wellbore, preventing uncontrolled release of oil, gas, or other fluids during drilling operations. It involves monitoring and managing wellbore pressures to ensure safety and operational integrity.
Why It's Important
Well control is crucial to prevent blowouts by maintaining stable pressure in the wellbore, ensuring the safety of the crew, including Floor Hands, and protecting the environment.
How to Improve Well Control Skills
Improving well control, especially for a Floor Hand, involves a combination of training, awareness, and adherence to safety protocols. Here are concise steps to enhance well control:
Understand Fundamentals: Gain a solid understanding of well control basics, including the behavior of gas and fluids in the wellbore. IADC WellCAP offers comprehensive courses.
Regular Training: Participate in regular training sessions and drills that simulate well control scenarios. Wild Well Control provides specialized training programs.
Equipment Familiarity: Be familiar with all well control equipment, including the Blowout Preventer (BOP), and understand their operation and maintenance. The BOP Operating Manual by the American Petroleum Institute offers detailed guidelines.
Communication: Ensure clear and constant communication with the drilling team, especially during critical operations. IADC offers resources on effective communication in drilling operations.
Follow Protocols: Strictly adhere to well control protocols and safety measures. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) provides guidelines on workplace safety.
Stay Alert: Always be alert to changes in well behavior and report any anomalies immediately.
By focusing on these areas, a Floor Hand can significantly contribute to improving well control on a drilling rig.
How to Display Well Control Skills on Your Resume
9. Shale Shakers
Shale shakers are vibrating screens used on drilling rigs to separate drilling cuttings (broken rock bits) from the drilling fluid, allowing the fluid to be recycled and reused in the drilling process. For a Floor Hand, they are essential for managing waste and maintaining the efficiency of drilling operations.
Why It's Important
Shale shakers are crucial in drilling operations because they efficiently separate drilled cuttings (solid materials) from the drilling fluid (mud), allowing the cleaned fluid to be recycled back into the drilling process. This separation is vital for maintaining the mud's properties and minimizing waste, which helps in reducing operational costs and environmental impact. For a Floor Hand, this means ensuring smoother drilling operations, less downtime, and safer working conditions by managing the solid waste effectively.
How to Improve Shale Shakers Skills
Improving shale shakers, crucial for separating drill cuttings from drilling fluid, can enhance both efficiency and effectiveness on the drilling floor. Here are concise tips for a Floor Hand:
Screen Selection: Choose the right screen size and type for the drilled formations. Finer screens for smaller particles and coarser screens for larger cuttings.
Proper Installation and Tensioning: Ensure screens are correctly installed and tensioned to prevent bypass and extend screen life.
Regular Maintenance: Conduct regular inspections and maintenance to avoid mechanical failures. Clean screens gently to prevent damage.
Operational Adjustments: Adjust the shaker deck angle and vibration settings based on the drilling conditions to optimize performance.
Fluid Properties Management: Monitor and maintain the drilling fluid properties to ensure it flows correctly over the shakers for better separation.
Cuttings Discharge Management: Ensure the cuttings discharge system is clear and functioning to prevent backups and inefficiencies.
For further detailed guidelines and best practices, industry resources such as the Society of Petroleum Engineers and equipment manuals from manufacturers are invaluable. Always adhere to your company's safety and operational protocols.
How to Display Shale Shakers Skills on Your Resume
10. Power Tongs
Power tongs are mechanized tools used on drilling rigs to make up or break out (tighten or loosen) the connections of drill pipe, casing, tubing, or other pipe; operated remotely, they enhance safety and efficiency for floor hands by reducing manual labor and exposure to hazardous conditions.
Why It's Important
Power tongs are crucial for a floor hand because they provide the necessary torque to safely and efficiently make-up or break-out pipes during drilling operations, reducing manual labor and enhancing workplace safety.
How to Improve Power Tongs Skills
To enhance Power Tongs for a Floor Hand, focus on ergonomics, safety, and efficiency:
- Ergonomic Design: Ensure handles and controls are designed for comfortable use over long periods, reducing strain (Ergonomics in the Workplace).
- Safety Features: Incorporate safety mechanisms like automatic shut-off, emergency stops, and guards to prevent accidents (Safety and Health Topics).
- Efficiency Improvements: Upgrade with faster, more precise control systems and better hydraulic power for quicker operations (Hydraulic Efficiency).
These changes aim to reduce fatigue, lower the risk of injuries, and increase the overall efficiency of Power Tongs operations for Floor Hands.
How to Display Power Tongs Skills on Your Resume
11. Elevators (Oilfield)
Elevators in oilfield contexts are mechanical devices used by floor hands to latch onto and lift drill pipe sections, casing, and tubing in and out of the wellbore during drilling or servicing operations. They are a crucial component of the hoisting system on a drilling rig.
Why It's Important
Elevators in the oilfield are crucial for a Floor Hand because they are the tools used to safely and efficiently hoist, lower, and secure drill pipes, casing, and tubing in and out of the wellbore, significantly reducing manual labor and increasing the safety and productivity of drilling operations.
How to Improve Elevators (Oilfield) Skills
Improving oilfield elevators, particularly from a Floor Hand's perspective, involves enhancing safety, efficiency, and durability. Here are concise strategies:
Safety Enhancements: Equip elevators with safety locks and real-time monitoring systems to prevent accidents. Implement rigorous inspection and maintenance schedules.
Efficiency Improvements: Use lightweight, high-strength materials for easier handling and faster operations. Incorporate automated control systems for precise operations.
Durability Increases: Apply advanced coatings to resist corrosion and wear. Opt for designs that facilitate easy part replacement to extend overall elevator life.
For Floor Hands, focusing on these aspects can lead to significant improvements in the performance and safety of oilfield elevators.
How to Display Elevators (Oilfield) Skills on Your Resume
12. Drawworks
Drawworks is a mechanical section on a drilling rig that contains a large winch with a steel cable or chain, used to hoist or lower the drill string and control the drilling speed, essential for a Floor Hand in managing and operating the drilling operation.
Why It's Important
Drawworks is crucial for a Floor Hand as it controls the hoisting and lowering of the drill string and tools, enabling safe and efficient drilling operations.
How to Improve Drawworks Skills
Improving Drawworks, especially from a Floor Hand perspective, involves focusing on maintenance, safety procedures, and operational efficiency. Here are concise strategies:
Regular Maintenance: Conduct routine inspections and maintenance to prevent mechanical failures. API guidelines offer standards for inspection and maintenance of oilfield equipment.
Safety Training: Enhance safety by participating in IADC safety programs and training specifically designed for rig operations, minimizing the risk of accidents.
Operational Efficiency: Learn and apply best practices for operating drawworks, including optimal drilling speeds and handling techniques, from resources like SPE.
Technological Upgrades: Stay informed about advancements in drawworks technology through Drilling Contractor for opportunities to improve efficiency and safety with modern equipment.
Team Communication: Foster clear communication with the drilling team to efficiently manage the drawworks operations and swiftly address any issues that arise.
How to Display Drawworks Skills on Your Resume
