Current through September 30, 2024
Section 3172.10 - Special drilling operations(a) In addition to the equipment already specified elsewhere in this subpart, the following equipment shall be in place and operational during air/gas drilling: (1) Properly lubricated and maintained rotating head (major);(2) Spark arresters on engines or water-cooled exhaust (major);(3) Blooie line discharge 100 feet from well bore and securely anchored;(4) Straight run on blooie line unless otherwise approved;(5) Deduster equipment (major);(6) All cuttings and circulating medium shall be directed into a reserve or blooie pit (major);(7) Float valve above bit (major);(8) Automatic igniter or continuous pilot light on the blooie line (major);(9) Compressors located in the opposite direction from the blooie line a minimum of 100 feet from the well bore; and(10) Mud circulating equipment, water, and mud materials (does not have to be premixed) sufficient to maintain the capacity of the hole and circulating tanks or pits. Table 1 to § 3172.10(a)
Violation | Corrective action | Normal abatement period |
Minor | Install the equipment as specified | 24 hours. |
Major (as indicated) | Install the equipment as specified | Prompt correction required. |
(b) Hydrogen sulfide operation is specifically addressed under subpart 3176 of this part.