A successful international water well drilling project is one that achieves its goal without causing injury to those involved. Proper preparation, situational awareness, routine cleaning and regular maintenance provide the foundation for bringing clean water to those who need it most in developing countries.

To ensure success, follow these safety steps before, during and after the project:

1. Dig Deeper

Before you dig into soil, dig deeper into educational resources for safe preparation guidelines to help with traveling and adapting to a new environment. Check partner charity organizations’ and government websites for general travel information and the country’s regulations. Talk with experienced organizations, read blogs and ask questions so you feel comfortable to safely complete your project.

2. Train Before Departure

How do you drill water wells safely? Start by familiarizing yourself with drill equipment and ensure proper handling procedures by using training resources. View videos on portable water well drill rig setup and equipment operation. You may also want to attend a training program from reputable manufacturers or through charity organizations.

3. Pack for Protection

Bring comfortable clothing but avoid anything loose that could get caught in moving parts. Pack work boots to properly cover feet and hard hats to protect against head injuries. Depending on the environment, sunscreen or a portable canopy offers protection against potentially harmful ultraviolet rays. Purchase our missionary kit for additional supplies and read about packing the right equipment and what you can expect when there.

4. Delegate to Avoid Confusion

Assign each team member a role. This avoids confusion over individual responsibilities and keeps the operation running smoothly. Learn about drill team member roles before departure.

5. Quick Check For a Safe Start

Prevent untimely repairs or injuries by dedicating a few minutes to examine and service equipment before you drill. Make a habit of checking for proper lubrication to prolong the drill’s life. These guidelines walk you through the process.

6. Safely Set Up Site

Begin safe set-up procedures by roping off the jobsite to ensure bystanders won’t wander through the drill site. Then, organize tools on dry ground. Place the portable water well drill rig in a shaded area, if possible, and properly anchor the rig on stable ground.

7. Open Eyes and Ears

Prevent safety issues with keen attention to the environment and thorough understanding of the task. Be alert for any hazards or sounds indicating a potential concern, such as screeching equipment. Quickly isolate any issues and reference the operators’ manual and this video of troubleshooting tips. Use our water well drilling kit for quick repairs and adjustments.

8. Commit to Cleaning Before Completion

Rusty pipes and drill bits contribute to premature equipment wear and can cause worksite hazards, such as infection to preexisting cuts. Wash muddy drill pipes to avoid slippery handling and prevent rust. A trailer mounted water well rig offers enhanced portability and built in drill racks allow safe storage for pipe. Be sure to replace the thread protector caps before storing pipe in a trailer. To protect drill bits, remove soil and then coat them with oil before storing. Box threads should be cleaned of dirt and grease with a wire brush. Any potential hazards, such as drilling debris, should be removed from the area to avoid injury. Reference the operators’ manual for equipment cleaning guidelines.

Basic guidelines protect your team from injuries and prevent costly maintenance. For any additional questions, view the operators’ manual or contact us.