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FOREWORD

The Oil Industry in India is more than 100 years old. Because of various collaboration
agreements, a variety of international codes, standards and practices have been in vogue.
Standardisation in design philosophies and operation and maintenance practices at a national
level was hardly in existence. This coupled with feed back from some serious accidents that
occurred in the recent past in India and abroad, emphasised the need for the industry to review
the existing state of art in designing, operating and maintaining oil and gas installations.
With this in view, the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas in 1986 constituted a Safety Council
assisted by the Oil Industry Safety Directorate (OISD), staffed from, within the industry in
formulating and implementing a series of self regulatory measures aimed at removing
obsolescence, standardising and upgrading the existing standards to ensure safe operations.
Accordingly, OISD constituted a number of functional committees of experts nominated from the
industry, to draw up standards and guidelines on various subjects.
The present standard on "Geophysical operations" was prepared by the Functional Committee on
"Geophysical operations The document is based on the accumulated knowledge and experience
of industry members and the various national and international codes and practices.
This standard is meant to be used as supplement and not as a replacement for existing codes
and practices.
It is hoped that provisions of this standard, if implemented objectively, may go a long way to
improve the safety and reduce accidents in Oil and Gas Industry. Users are cautioned that no
standard can be a substitute for the judgement of responsible and experienced geo scientist.
Suggestions are invited from the users after it is put into practice to improve the document further.
Suggestions for amendments to this document should be addressed to the Coordinator,
Committee on "Geophysical operations,

OIL INDUSTRY SAFETY DIRECTORATE

7TH FLOOR, NEW DELHI HOUSE
27, BARAKHAMBA ROAD
NEW DELHI - 110 001.
This standard in no way supercedes the statutory requirements of bodies like DGMS, CCE or any
other Government Body which must be followed as applicable.

COMMITTEE FOR
STANDARD ON
"GEOPHYSICAL OPERATIONS"

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------NAME
DESIGNATION &
POSITION IN
ORGANISATION
COMMITTEE
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------S/SHRI
1.

D.C. LOHANI

ONGC, NRBC, DEHRADUN

LEADER

2.

K.K. NATH

OIL, DULIAJAN

MEMBER

3.

C.S. RANA

ONGC, DEHRADUN

MEMBER

4.

S.K. KHANDELWAL

ONGC, VADODARA

MEMBER

5.

B.M. SINHA

OIL, DULIAJAN

MEMBER

6.

P.K. GARG

OISD

CO-ORDINATOR

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

CONTENTS

SECTION

DESCRIPTION

PAGE NO

1.

INTRODUCTION

2.

SCOPE

3.

CAMP

4.

COMMUNICATION

5.

SURVEY

6.

SHOT HOLE DRILLING

11

7.

EXPLOSIVES

13

8.

SHOOTING

15

9.

SAFETY ASPECTS OF SEISMIC RECORDING OPERATION 17

10.

SAFETY WHILE USING VEHIC LES IN THE FIELD

19

11.

VIBROSEIS OPERATIONS

19

12.

TRAINING

21

13.

GLOSSARY

23

14.

REFERENCES

25

15.

CHECK LIST

25

16.

ANNEXURES I& II

28

1.

INTRODUCTION
Ever since the evolution of
civilisation, the mankind has been in
quest for hidden treasures beneath
the earth for making life more and
more comfortable. In the process of
development of civilisation, the
demand for hydrocarbons is growing
day by day. Geophysical surveys
are scientific methods for discovery
of hydrocarbon, mineral, metals and
ground water etc. The success of
exploration largely depends upon
the
quality
of
survey
and
interpretation of data.
Seismic
survey is the most widely used
method, out of all geophysical
survey
for
exploration
of
hydrocarbon.

There is no standard on geophysical

operations prepared either by
American Petroleum Institute or by
any other agency.
Geophysical
operations are covered under
different acts like Mines Act, Indian
Electricity Act, Explosive Act, Motor
Vehicle Act, Petroleum Act, Indian
Forest Act, Environment Protection
Act, Contract labour (Regulation and
Abolition) Act etc.
Utilising the
practical
observations
of
geophysical survey and guidelines
issued by oil exploration companies,
this is an attempt to frame
guidelines for safe working by
persons engaged in geophysical
operations.

In seismic survey, holes are drilled

to predetermined depth for creating
energy source with explosives or a
vibrator is used to generate artificial
vibration within the earth.
The
energy travels across sub-surface in
the form of seismic waves. From
each interface between rocks
having different velocity and density,
a part of energy is reflected back to
the surface and recorded by seismic
recording equipment. The amount
of energy reflected back to the
surface is a measure of rock
properties above and below the
interface and the time taken is a
measure of depth of the interface. In
offshore operation all the operations
are conducted from a vessel and air
guns are used as energy source.
One of the objectives of this
standard is to guide the persons
engaged in geophysical operation
about the safety aspects to be taken
during survey, drilling, shooting,
storage
of
explosives,
data
processing and interpretation. This
standard will help managers,
supervisors,
operators
and
contractors in further improving the
planning, execution and evaluation
stages of geophysical operations.

2.

SCOPE

2.1

This standard covers safety aspects

during establishment of camp, for
persons, storing of material, survey,
safe drilling operations by rig and
dheki system, safety aspects for
storage and transportation of
explosives,
shooting,
seismic
recording and data interpretation.

2.2

The
standard
also
covers
Recommended Practices to be
followed during fire drills and
frequency of these drills.

2.3

The standard also covers training to

company
employees
and
contractors persons engaged in
geophysical operations.
This document is for the safety
adherence
during
geophysical
operation and in no way supersedes
the requirements stipulated by
statutory bodies like Director
General of Mines Safety, Chief
Controller of Explosives or any other
Government Authorities.

3.

CAMP

3.1

SAFETY AT CAMP

Normally geophysical operations are

carried out in remote areas. For
carrying out operations, it is
essential to set up a camp for
accommodating personnel, storage
of material, parking of vehicles,
office, storage of Explosive and
Detonators.

ix)

Trenches should be made all

around the individual housing and
office units for protection from
snakes and reptiles etc.

x)

Field personnel must be trained in

rendering first aid.

xi)

A doctor should be designated for

regular visits to camp.

xii)

Surroundings inside the

should be cleaned regularly.

xiii)

Safe, hygienic and comfortable

living environment should be
provided. DDT, Phenyl should be
sprayed regularly.

xiv)

Potable water should be provided in

the camp for drinking. Steel or good
quality plastic containers should be
used for storing drinking water.

xv)

Nobody should be allowed to ignite

fire in living tents

There should be sufficient lighting

arrangement.
Fuse
must
be
provided outside each tent/ thatched
house. Back up power from
generator should be available in the
camp. Proper specification of
wire/cables and appliances should
be used.

xvi)

Kitchen should be at least three

meters away from living tents.

xvii)

Important telephone Nos. of local

authorities such as Fire Station,
Police
Station,
Hospital
and
headquarters should be displayed at
proper place.

iv)

An Electrician is available in the

camp
to
handle
electrical
equipment.

xviii)

Zone of fire should be isolated from

rest of the area and marked as
zone 1.

v)

The fire fighting equipment should

be in a ready to use condition.

xix)

vi)

First aid box with complete kits

including
disposable
syringes
should be kept in Camp, at an easily
accessible place.

Crew heads including contractors

supervisor should ensure that they
have kept first aid box with them
before leaving the camp for field.

3.2

SAFETY
IN
MATERIAL

Accordingly, camp is established

with tents or thatched houses or
portable/mobile bunk houses for
living and office accommodation,
with all essential facilities like
cooking, bathing and public utilities.
Safety at camp comprises of Safety
of Personnel, Material & Equipment.
Following safety aspects should be
followed at Camp site.
i)

Camp should be properly fenced

and guarded.

ii)

Minimum two feet distance between

each tent/thatched house should be
provided for easy walking.

iii)

vii)

There should be adequate drainage

and pits for disposal of water and
waste material.

viii)

Safety posters should be displayed

to create safety awareness among
field personnel.

STORAGE

camp

OF

A large quantity of various

equipment and materials are stored
for smooth operations. The storage
of material is done in a store tent in
an isolated place leaving safe
distance between residential area
and storage tent.
Inside tents
various types of racks and partitions
5

i)

to be made to keep different items in

a properly stacked manner. No
material should be stored on the
ground in loose form.

iii)

Electronic
spares
should
be
protected from sunlight, heat, dust,
grease etc.
Handle electronic
spares gently.

Proper safety measures should be

taken
while
storing
seismic
equipment / material. Following
safety measures should be followed:

iv)

Provide proper foam or other

padding
to
electronic
components/cards / PCBs and keep
them in well protected boxes /
cases.

v)

Do not top load electronic spares.

All the store items should

properly stacked in racks.

be

ii)

All the items available in each box

should be displayed on the box.

vi)

On electronic boxes,
proper side up.

iii)

First aid box with complete kits

should be kept at proper place
inside the store.

vii)

When required, store PCBs in static

free coverings.

viii)
iv)

Storage of POL should be at a safe

distance. Fire extinguishers and
sand buckets should be placed
nearby to POL site.

Keep magnetic tapes away from

heat, dust and store them in air
condition.

ix)

Protect photographic paper from

sunlight exposure.

x)

Containers
having
liquid
consumables should be properly
capped.

3.3

GENERATORS

i)

Generator should be placed at one

corner of the camp and should have
sufficient distance from residential
areas to reduce pollution.

v)

vi)

The magnetic tapes/cartridges are

to be stored in wooden or cardboard
boxes.
The
sophisticated
seismic
equipment for daily use is to be
stored in a separate tent on proper
racks/tables.

the

vii)

Electrical
wiring
should
underground within the store.

viii)

Smoking should not be allowed near

POL storage tanks.

ii)

Muffler should be used to reduce

the noise.

ix)

Safe material handling practice

using proper material handling
equipment should be used.

iii)

Generator should
separate shed.

iv)
3.2.1

Safety in storing
Consumables

Proper mountings and earthing are

to be provided at the time of
installation.

i)

Protect all spares from mechanical

damage, loss; mix up and negligent
handling.

v)

Main
switchboard
should
be
facilitated with E.L.C.B. (Earth
Leakage Circuit Breaker).

ii)

Store electronic spares at proper

places after duly testing and labeling
them.

vi)

Rubber mat should be provided

near the electric control panel.

vii)

Proper ventilation and adequate

space should be provided for battery

spares

be

mark

be

kept

in

viii)

charging and batteries should be

kept on wooden plank.
Generator room must have sufficient
space and only authorised person
should be allowed to enter the room.

areas, which have unique features

relating to safe negotiations in
transit during operation along with
walkie-talkies.
5.0

ix)

Danger signs should be displayed

boldly all around POL site,
Generator, Charging room and
electrical junction boxes.

x)

Guards should be fitted on fan and

other moving parts.

3.4

ELECTRIFICATION

Line survey is the first operation of

the geophysical data acquisition
process after initial planning work in
office. The line survey operation
requires different type of equipment
and manpower.
Based on the
operational
areas
for
data
acquisition the operations are
broadly classified as follows:

The
wires
used
for
camp
electrification should be of proper
specification, good quality and
having ISI mark. Three core PVC
insulated and PVC sheathed wires
should be used for electric wiring.
Each line should be strictly installed
with earthing wire. Fuse of proper
rating must be used for each line.
Load of camp lighting is to be
distributed
properly
to
avoid
accident. Meter room must be away
from the living tents.
The
switchboard must be neatly fitted
with adequate number of panels and
wiring must be properly fitted on
that.
Certificate
from
authorised
electrician must be obtained for the
temporary wiring of the camp before
the same put to use.
4.0

SURVEY

i)

Onshore or onland operations

ii)

Offshore or Marine operations

iii)

Airborne operations

iv)

Well survey (VSP)

The procedures and methodologies,
in above classified operations is
entirely different and, therefore, the
safety requirements and norms will
also differ in each type of operation.

5.1

ONSHORE SURVEYS
The
onland
data
acquisition
techniques depend upon the nature
of the terrain.
In case of land
operations the terrain has the
maximum
bearing
on
the
operational aspects.
Different
surface conditions such as plain
fields, desert, jungles, mountains,
swampy lands and transition zone
(land-water junctions) will demand
different safety requirements for
safe and efficient operations.

COMMUNICATION
Communication plays an important
role in seismic data acquisition.
Proper communication between
observer and shot point may avoid
accident and accelerate smooth
functioning of seismic operations. It
is also required to communicate
between field crew/survey crew to
camp and camp to head quarter.

Surveying is the operation for layout

of planned profiles from map to
ground. The crew has to move to
the virgin and inaccessible areas
most of the time, to make way for
subsequent operations.
The
surveying may be further divided
into following sub groups.

Global
communication
system
(Mobile) will be the best suited
system
under
present
circumstances for communication in
geophysical field parties, conducting
operation in diverse geographical
7

i)

Reconnaissance & Control Point

Survey

ii)

Line Layout/Staking

iii)

Leveling

5.2

OPERATIONAL
REQUIREMENT
OF SURVEY CREW

in the field. Following norms must

always be adhered to by the
surveying crewmembers for safe
and accident free operations:
i)

Safety and protective gears such as

safety boots, helmet, sunglasses,
hand gloves etc. must be used

ii)

The crew must always carry a

powerful torch or source of light
while surveying in jungle to scare
the wild animals.

iii)

Before entering into thick forest area

for survey operation, a din of sound
from drum should be made to drive
away
the
wild
animals.
Crewmembers should use safety
glasses to protect eyes from
bushes.

v)

While working with bulldozer in

desert area, no one should move in
front of bulldozer blade, and always
a clear line of sight should be given
to the bulldozer operator.

vi)

Always keep a first aid box

equipped with medicines and
dressings for cut / wound and also
anti-venom medicines for snake and
other poisonous insects / reptiles
bite.

vi)

Crew should be given first aid

training.

vii)

Keep sufficient drinking water with

the crew.

viii)

While working in transition zone

areas or river torn terrain, use of
boats, preferably portable motor
boats, to cross the river, be used.
Wooden or banana logs should not
be used.

ix)

Use of life jacket while travelling in

portable rubber boat is a must.

x)

Survey umbrella for protection of

person & equipment from sun and
rain should be used.

The crew for land survey operations

requires following equipment /
material:
i)

Equipment

a)

Compass

b)

Measuring chain/tape

c)

Theodolite with relevant accessories

or Total station

d)

GPS receiver sets for control point

survey

e)

Bulldozer for clearing lines in desert

for vibroseis operations.

ii)

Material
Wooden stakes (Bamboo pegs),
paint, brush, red and white flag,
wood cutting knife or axe, spade,
hammer etc.

iii)

Transport
Adequate number of light and
medium duty vehicles pliable on
rugged terrain should be available
for opertions.

5.3

SAFETY REQUIREMENTS FOR

LAND SURVEY OPERATIONS
As mentioned above, the surveying
operation is the initial operation
where the crew has to face the
ground realities without much
previous knowledge of the area of
operation. This requires a cautious
and thoughtful approach from the
surveying groups. They must be
fully alert and equipped with to meet
any exigency / emergency situation
8

xi)

While plying on uneven land or in

the fields, the vehicle should be
equipped with four-wheel drive and
wheel pressure should be lowered
to avoid skidding in sand / mud.

xii)

Driving must be at a very low speed

to avoid accidents.

xiii)

Care should be taken to follow

environment protection norms. The
undergrowth should be cleared as
minimum
as
possible
while
surveying through the forest.

xiv)

The equipment, particularly, GPS,

Total Station / Theodolite, compass
etc. should be carried in a dust /
waterproof container.

xv)

Detailed traverse report shall be

prepared by surveyors to facilitate
smooth location indicating following
points in particular:

a)

Position of overhead transmission

lines

b)

Oil / gas / water or any other

pipelines

c)

Location of permanent structures

d)

Rivers / lakes / ponds etc.

structural picture from gravity or

other potential data that is generally
obtainable by seismic methods.
In gravity measurement, the quantity
actually observed is not the earths
true gravitational attraction but its
variation from one point to another,
usually at positions along the earths
surface, which are close together.
Such lateral differences can be
measured with a much greater
degree of precision than the total
gravitational
field,
and
field
instruments
are
designed
to
measure differences in gravity
rather that its actual magnitude.
The variation in gravity observed
through
such
measurements
depends only upon lateral changes
in the density of earth materials in
the vicinity of measuring point.
Many types
of
rocks
have
characteristic ranges of density,
which may differ from those of other
types that are laterally adjacent.
Thus an anomaly in earths
gravitational attraction can often be
related to a buried geophysical
feature, horizontal extent.
The gravity method was initially
used in oil exploration for locating
salt domes and later for finding
anticline structures.
Even now
special types of structures in which
hydrocarbons are entrapped exhibit
such large contrasts in density with
respect to surrounding formations
that gravity data alone can be used
to decide on drilling locations.

The traverse report must be

provided to all crew heads
invariably.
5.4

GRAVITY SURVEY
The
gravity
method
involves
measuring a field force in the earth
that is neither generated by the
observer nor influenced by anything
he does.
Such method of
exploration makes use of natural
potential fields. The field observed
in gravitational prospecting is a
composite of contributions from all
depths within the usual range of
exploration interest, and such
contributions can be individually
resolved only in special cases.
Hence one cannot expect to obtain
the detailed and relatively precise

5.5

MAGNETIC SURVEY
Magnetic prospecting, the oldest
method of geophysical exploration is
used to explore for both oil and
minerals. In prospecting for oil, it
gives information from which one
can determine the depth to
basement rocks and thus locate and
define the extent of sedimentary
basins.
Such information is of
particular value
is
previously
unexplored
areas
such
as
continental shelves newly opened

for prospecting.
It is sometime
employed, although not always
successfully, to map topographic
features on the basement surface
that might influence the structure of
overlying sediments. Sedimentary
rocks exert such a small magnetic
effect compared with igneous rocks
that virtually all variations in
magnetic intensity measurable at
the surface result from topographic
or lithologic changes associated
with the basement or from igneous
intrusive.

magnetic at the present times is this

type of evaluation.
Gravity and magnetic employ
fundamentally similar interpretation
techniques. The magnetic method,
for a number of reasons, is more
complicated both in principle and in
practice. The characteristic of a
rock which determines its magnetic
effects,
the
intensity
of
magnetisation (dependent on its
susceptibility), has both magnitude
and
direction,
while
the
corresponding
characteristic
governing its gravitational pull, the
mass (dependent on density), has
magnitude only.
Magnetic force
involves
both
attraction
and
repulsion, while all gravitational
force is attractive. Also magnetic
effects from rocks may be greatly
influenced by small traces of certain
minerals, while gravitational effects
originate mainly from the rocks
primary constituents.

Until the middle 1940s, all magnetic

exploration was carried out on the
ground using field methods similar
to those in gravity surveys. Today,
virtually all-magnetic prospecting for
oil is done from the air or from ships,
as
are
most
reconnaissance
surveys for minerals. The speed,
economy and convenience of
airborne and marine techniques are
responsible for this trend.

The safety measures applicable for

gravity and magnetic surveys are
same as applicable for seismic
survey
as
far
as
camp
establishment etc. is concerned.

The
magnetic
method
of
prospecting has a great deal in
common with the gravitational
method. Both make use of potential
fields. Both seek anomalies caused
by changes in physical properties of
subsurface rocks. Both gravity and
magnetic have similar applications
in oil explorations. While they are
extensively used as reconnaissance
tools, there has been an increasing
recognition of their value for
evaluating prospective areas by
virtue of the unique information they
provide.
Seismic data makes it
possible to map an area structurally
and, within certain limits, to
determine
seismic
velocities.
Gravity data make it possible to
assign densities magnetic data, and
magnetic
susceptibilities
to
seismically defined features. The
lithologic identifications that can be
made by combining these different
kinds of information have great
value in evaluating possibilities for
hydrocarbons over a prospective
feature.
The most common
objective in using gravity and

5.6

AEROMAGNETIC AND
AIRBORNE GRAVITY
In this type of survey magnetic and
gravity measurements are made
from an aircraft over the area under
consideration. This type of survey is
widely used as reconnaissance tool
and the areas can be covered in a
short interval. By this method the
boundary of the basin can be well
defined.

5.7

ELECTRICAL SURVEY
Electrical methods are much more
frequently used in searching for
metals and minerals than they are in
exploring for petroleum. One of the
most
widely
used
electrical
techniques is the electromagnetic
method. It is based on the induction
of electric currents in buried
conductors, such as certain ore

10

bodies,
by
the
magnetic
components of electromagnetic
waves generated at the earths
surface or in aircraft above its
surface. The waves originate from
alternating currents at frequencies
ranging from a few hertz to a few
megahertz, which are passed
through loops of wire on the ground
or in the air. With some methods,
current is introduced into the earth
by grounded lengths of wire.

operations. The operation is much

simpler and safer in comparison to
land operations.
The safety
requirement of the shore base
station crew is same as that of land
based crews.
5.9

Vertical seismic profiling (commonly

abbreviated as VSP) is one of the
rapidly
developing
areas
of
geophysical
technology,
which
calibrate geology in term of time.

In this method sealed wire is laid

along a line with pair of electrodes,
maintained at desired separation. A
high voltage current is passed
through the wire laid and potential
gradient is measured.

It is a bore hole seismic technique

that can provide potentially better
answers than conventional surface
seismic techniques. Several well
bore seismic techniques have been
evolved to aid in this process
ranging in complexity and benefits
from the simple check shot surveys
for calculating velocities through
synthetic seismograms zero offset
VSP, Offset VSP, multifold VSP and
three component offset VSP to
detailed reservoir description by
cross-hole tomography.

The safety measures required to be

taken are as follows:
i)

The wires laid along the line should

be properly protected to avoid
accident as high voltage current
passes through it.

ii)

Proper protection should always be

provided near electrodes (copper
rods) and people / animals should
not be allowed to come near the
same.

iii)

Insulation used in wire should be of

good quality to avoid any leakage.

iv)

People deployed to handle

generator must be given kits and
leverage of good quality (Hand
gloves, safety shoes etc.).

v)

There should not be moisture within

the system; otherwise it will damage
the equipment.

5.8

OFF SHORE OPERATION

VSP

6.0

SHOT HOLE DRILLING

Shot hole drilling is a part of
geophysical operation. In this, hole
of desired depth, varying from 2 m
to 60 m is required to be drilled with
shot hole drilling rigs. The holes are
drilled at a pre-determined position
for creating energy source with
explosives. The diameter of the
holes is around 90mm. Different
kinds of shot hole drilling rigs are
used, depending upon the logistic
conditions of the area to be
surveyed. Shot hole drilling is mainly
of two types.

The surveying or navigation for

offshore seismic surveys is normally
done with DGPS/GPS or satellite
navigation methods in which a
couple of shore base stations record
the signals transmitted from the ship
based transmitter and also from the
satellites available in the area of

1.

Mechanical

2.

Manual
Mechanical rigs are also of two
types:

1.

11

Truck mounted drilling rig.

2.

Portable rig.
v)

Drilling platform should be regularly

cleaned to avoid slipping of
crewmember during operation.

vii)

The prime mover should not be over

loaded during operation.

During the drilling process, following

precautions are to be taken to avoid
any mishappening:

viii)

The prime mover must be

disengaged, if any repairing work to
be done during operation.

Before start of operation all the crew

heads should reccy the area, at
least, once and obtain traverse
report from surveyor. This report
must be studied and discussed with
all crew head / member for smooth
operation.

ix)

Except crewmember, no one should

stand nearby drilling rig during
operation.

x)

Main drilling clutch system should

always be in perfect condition to
control the equipment in any
emergency.

xi)

The mud pump should be provided

with a pressure gauge and relief
valve. The discharge of the relief
valve should be led through a pipe
to the ground.
The mud lines
should be secured to the mast.

xii)

The mud pumps should not be

operated until the inlet and
discharge valves are checked and
opened. In case the pump stops
due to any reason, the pressure
should be released immediately by
opening the relief valve.

xiii)

Hose, chains and lines should be

inspected daily and in case of any
defect,
these should not be put into use
until the defect is removed. The
dies of slips and tongs should be
checked and required to be
replaced, if found necessary

xiv)

It should be ensured that drill

cuttings are not allowed to clog the
hole. No attempt should be made to
clean the cuttings manually when
drilling is in progress.

xv)

Drilling crew should be provided

with personal protective equipment
like helmet, boots and hand gloves.

Manual drilling are being carried by

people manually and no mechanical
device is used in this.
6.1

i)

ii)

SAFETY DURING DRILLING

For critical and hazardous shot

points, if any, the same should be
inspected jointly by representative of
organisation as well as contractor, in
case of contractual drilling and
offset
should
be
decided
accordingly. In case, if there is a
possibility of damage, the same shot
point should be skipped.

iii)

Villagers should not be allowed to

come within 15 mtrs. of drilling site.

6.2

DRILLING WITH RIG

i)

While moving the drilling rig from

one shot point to another shot point,
its mast should be lowered down.
After lowering, the mast should be
screwed properly.

ii)

Drilling rig should be parked at a

safe distance from high voltage
power line.

iii)

Before raising the mast at site, locks

should be unscrewed and it should
be ensured that the truck is in level
position and there is no obstruction
like overhead transmission line etc.
in its path. Wheel of the truck
should be firmly blocked to prevent
inadvertent motion during drilling.

iv)

Sturdy wooden platform for operator

and rotary man should be used.
12

xvi)

xvii)

6.3

All shafts, sprockets, gears and

moving parts of machinery should
be securely guarded. Repair and
maintenance of machinery should
not be done while the machine is in
motion.
In case of any malfunctioning of
vehicle during operation time, the
matter should immediately be
reported to the chief of field crew or
to any executive present at the
operational site and corrective
measures must be taken
immediately.

generate elastic waves. Being its

explosive in nature, it requires lot of
precautions during transportation,
storage and use.
A minor
negligence may cause danger to
human life and property.
7.1

Explosive Rule 1983, framed under

the Indian Explosives Act, 1884
regulates transportation, storage
and
use
of
explosives
in
geophysical operations. Magazines
for storage of explosives, detonators
and vehicles and transportation of
explosives and detonators should
be as per the directives of Chief
Controller of Explosives and as per
Explosives Rules. Chief Controller
of Explosives is responsible for
enforcement of these statutory
provisions,
which
should
be
carefully studied. Salient features
and
safety
precautions
are
mentioned below:

DRILLING WITH DHEKI SYSTEM

In case of Dheki system of drilling,
following precautions are required to
be taken:

i)

The wooden logs used for Dheki

must be strong enough to withhold
the load and pressure, exerted by
the top man and drill pipes. These
must be regularly checked for sag
and must be disposed of before
reaching the breaking point.

ii)

The top man must always be alert

for
jumping away in case the
Dheki collapses.
The drill stamps must be lifted only
after the top man has come down
from the Dheki top.
The holes should be loaded only
after removal of all the equipment
from the site.

iii)

iv)

v)

Drilling crew should be provided

with personal protective equipment
like helmet, safety shoes and hand
gloves. (Ref. OISD STD 155 for
further details).

vi)

During
drilling,
proper
safety
precautions should be taken of other
seismic equipment like cables,
geophones, batteries, wireless sets
etc.

7.0

STORAGE AND TRANSPORT OF

EXPLOSIVE

i)

Only licensed person should be

deployed to handle the explosive.

ii)

The explosives are required to be

transported in a vehicle approved by
Chief Controller of explosive.

iii)

Explosives and detonators required

to be transported in separate
vehicles and in their original packing
under armed escort. If material is
being transported in a convoy of two
or more vehicles, a safe distance
must be kept between the vehicles
including other vehicles running
along side.

iv)

If any fire occurs in a vehicle

containing explosives, the driver
shall take all practical steps to keep
the vehicle away from other vehicles
and warn all persons in the vicinity
about the danger.

v)

License is required to be obtained /

renewed for permanent as well as
temporary (portable) magazine.

EXPLOSIVE
Explosive plays an important role in
seismic data acquisition as it is
being used as energy source to
13

vi)
vii)

viii)

ix)

x)

xi)

xii)

xiii)

xiv)

Explosive should always be kept in

a licensed magazine.
Magazine
should
always
be
provided with lightening conductor
with proper earthing.

xviii)

xix)

The magazine should be away from

the village /city etc. as per Explosive
Rule.
The construction of magazine must
be as per the design approved by
the Chief Controller of Explosives.
Magazine must be properly fenced
and protected round the clock by
armed guards.
Sign boards indicating No smoking
and Danger should be displayed
along with red flag at the temporary
and permanent magazine sites.
Smoking, fire or open flames or
articles or substances of flammable
nature should not be permitted in
proximity to a place where
explosives are stored.
Safe distance must be maintained
between B type (explosive boxes)
and S type (Detonators) type boxes,
as per explosive rules for storing
explosive
and
detonators
respectively.

The explosives van/jeep must

display the Danger, Explosive and
No Smoking Signs.
Two fire extinguishers should be
provided with each explosive
van/jeep.

xx)

All electrical wiring and battery

cables of the vehicles should be
fully enclosed and maintained in
good condition.

xxi)

A copy of license of van/jeep should

always be kept in the vehicle.

xxii)

The explosive van should be

painted in aluminum (the explosive
carrier part) to avoid over-heating
and the rest of the body with red
colour to display danger.

xxiii)

Batteries, dry cells, iron material and

other source of electrical energy not
to be carried out in the explosive
van.

xxiv)

Explosives and detonators not to be

transported in towed vehicles.

xxv)

Authorised and competent persons

should operate magazine only.

7.2

HANDLING OF EXPLOSIVE
The following safety standard
required to be followed for handling
of explosives and detonators.

Records
of
explosive
and
detonators must be maintained in a
register kept at explosive magazine
and at HQR, or at camp.

i)

Only competent person, holding

shot firers permit, granted under the
Explosive Rules, 1983 should be
allowed to handle the explosives.

xv)

Explosives and detonators must be

transported during daytime only.
ii)

xvi)

While loading / unloading of

explosives in the vehicle, vehicle
engine must be shut off and should
not be started until loading /
unloading job is completed.

Only one person should give

instructions to the workers handling
the explosives to avoid any
confusion.

iii)

Keeping in view, the advancement

of technology in manufacturing, safe
and good quality of explosives
should be used.

A record should be maintained of

explosives and detonators received,
consumed and balance at the
magazine.

iv)

As far as possible, priming of

explosive is done under shadow to
avoid static charge.

xvii)

14

v)
vi)

vii)

No person shall have in his

possession matchbox or other
appliances of steel, which can
cause spark.

viii)

No person wears shoes with an iron

heel.

ix)

Detonators are required to be

carried in wooden boxes duly
locked. The end of the detonator
leads should be kept shorted.

x)

No detonator is taken out from its

container unless; it is required for
immediate use. Separate vehicle /
container must be used to carry
explosive and detonators.

xi)

xii)

Firing of explosives, loaded in shot

hole, to acquire data, is called
shooting. Blaster / synchrophone /
Machha system are used to blast
the explosives lowered in shot
holes, through main recording
system. Blaster / Synchrophone /
Machha system are handled by
licensed shot firers,
specially
trained for the job.

Cases containing explosives are not

thrown or dropped down on ground.
Atleast two detonators should be
used for priming one charge and
testing of detonator shouldnt be
carried out at the operation site or
near storage of explosives with any
kind of testing device.

The following safety measures are

required to be taken during shooting
operation.

Explosive primed with detonator

should be immediately lowered into
the shot hole. No primed charge
should be kept on the surface. The
ends of the wire attached to the
primed explosive must be kept
shorted, from the time of primary
loading, till the time, it is to be
connected to firing line, for blasting.
While stretching the detonator
leads, do not hold the detonator cap
but grip the wires at least 5
centimeters
away
from
the
detonator cap with one hand and
stretch with the other.

xiii)

Accidents by fire or explosion

should immediately be reported to
the nearest Police Station and to the
concerned Controller of Explosives
and Chief Controller of Explosives,
Nagpur.

8.0

SHOOTING

15

i)

Shooting crew should strictly study

the surveyors traverse report daily,
before going to field to know the
assess route to the shot point,
presence of transmission lines,
telephone lines, roads, permanent
structures etc, to avoid any damage
/ accident to property / manpower.

ii)

No blasting operation should be

carried out between the hours of
sunset and sunrise.

iii)

Only authorised licensed person

should be deputed to fire the shot
hole.

iv)

Every shot firer, deputed to charge

shot hole, should use only wooden /
non-ferrous tools for opening of
boxes, charging and stemming shot
holes.

v)

Before loading the explosives, it

should be ensured that the hole is
thoroughly washed out and kept
clear till loading of the explosives.

vi)

Before
commencing
shooting,
adequate warning to public should
be given by an efficient system of
signals by putting up red flags in the
danger zone i.e. 55 mtrs from the
place of blasting.
It should be
ensured that persons, in the vicinity,
have taken proper shelter.

vii)

If shots are being fired in the vicinity

of public places or property,
adequate precautions should be

viii)
ix)

taken to guard against danger to the

public.

xix)

Never blast a shot hole under a

high-tension electric line.
After blasting has been satisfactorily
carried out, all clear signal should
be sounded.

The distance between shot hole and

the places where explosives is kept
on the ground for stemming should
be at least 55 mtrs. This should be
applicable for up hole survey also.

xx)

Instrument should be about 55 mtrs

away from the shot hole and in a
direction opposite to the place
where the explosive is kept for
stemming.

xxi)

The blaster / synchrophone should

be at a safe distance from the shot
hole at the time of blasting. No
person should be present near the
shot hole within the radius of 55
mtrs at the time of blasting.

xxii)

In case of up-hole, the shooting wire

after blasting should be pulled out
and taken away from the hole. Only
then another charge with shooting
wire should be brought for loading.
It should be ensured that there is no
mix up of wires.

xxiii)

Before blasting the charge, the hole

should be filled with mud and the
firing line at the mouth of the shot
hole should be firmly spilled to the
ground so as to prevent firing line to
go up.

xxiv)

All communication should be kept in

off position during blasting of hole.

xxv)

The left over explosives and

detonators in the field must be
deposited back in magazine in the
evening.

xxvi)

A cap tester should be used to

check the continuity of each
detonator before priming.

xxvii)

To avoid any confusion for clear

transmission of messages, good
quality,
perfectly
working,
communication systems should be
used by shooter and recording
persons.

8.1

MISFIRES

x)

The entire shooting crew should

wear helmets to guard against any
falling debris.

xi)

The blasted holes must be filled with

earth to avoid injury to people or
animals.

xii)

Shooting operations should be

suspended if there is any possibility
of lightning in a cloudy weather.

xiii)

All the loading crew must wear

cotton dangarees to avoid static
discharge from synthetic cloths.
Anti-static detonators must be used
in desert operations.

xiv)

In the event of misfire, no attempt

should be made to re-bore or
tamper the hole that was charged
with explosive or to withdraw the
explosive from the hole.

xv)

In case of misfire, the re-loading of

the misfired hole must be done
according to the Explosive Rules
1983.

xvi)

The moment, hole is blasted, the

firing line must be disconnected
from the blasting system.

xvii)

The firing line must be kept shorted

till it is connected to the blaster.
Firing line should be connected to
blaster
only
after
receiving
instructions from the observer.

xviii)

Before firing the shot, the observer

should ascertain from the shooter
the shot point number, being fired
and whether nearby persons are at
safe distance from shot hole. The
shooter should move to the next
location
only
after
obtaining
clearance from the observer.
16

i)

ii)

iii)

9.0

No person should be allowed to

approach the misfire site before
getting
confirmation
from
observer/shot firer.
Misfired hole must be blasted with
the help of fresh detonators.

carelessness may damage the

costly equipment, resulting in
suspension of operations. Some of
the important safety aspects of
operations which require attention of
the observer / operator while
carrying out recording operations
are as follows:

If a relieving hole is to be drilled, it

should not be drilled within five
meters from misfired hole.
The
relieving hole shall run parallel to
the misfired hole.
SAFETY ASPECTS OF SEISMIC
RECORDING OPERATION
The recording operation is the main
operation
in
seismic
data
acquisition, which deploys a large
numbers of men, equipment and
vehicles.
It involves use of
sophisticated
Electronic equipment operated on
electrical power, supplied from
storage
batteries
or
/
and
generators.
In the land areas,
depending upon the type of
operational terrain, the recording
equipment may be vehicle mounted
or manually portable. The safety
requirements in seismic recording
operations may be considered from
two angles.

i)

Truck mounted equipment

(ii)

Portable equipment.

The main recording equipment

should be mounted in a cabin on
back of a powerful four-wheel drive
van

ii)

The
recording
equipment
is
sensitive to temperature and
humidity. To avoid damage of
equipment, the cabin should be
made air-conditioned. This requires
a power supply backed by a
generator

iii)

In the rainy season, during a rainy

day, recording must be suspended
and instrument must be switched off
if rain and thunder persists. It is
essential, both for quality of data
recorded and for safety of the
equipment.

9.2

RECORDING OPERATIONS WITH

PORTABLE EQUIPMENT
In case of portable equipment set up
for recording, the equipment must
be carried in waterproof boxes and
transportation
must
be
done
carefully by deploying sufficient man
power.
In case of portable
operations, following special safety
norms must be complied with:

In both these cases the safety

requirement of the crew on line
(responsible for ground equipment
layout) will be the same, where as
the
safety
requirements
for
recording equipment, transportation
crew and operators will differ a little
bit in the two cases. Recording of
seismic data in offshore area differs
from onland recording.
9.1

i)

i)

Instrument modules / panels must

be set up in a properly cleaned dry
place for operations.

ii)

The set up must be covered on top

to protect it from sun & rain i.e. it
should be under an open tent
(without side walls).

iii)

The batteries for power supply to

the instrument must be placed on
wooden planks and connector clips
must be dry and clean.

TRUCK MOUNTED EQUIPMENT

The
recording
site
safety
requirement is very important, both
for operating personnel and the
equipment. Equipment safety is of
paramount importance, as a little
17

iv)

9.3

Temperature should not exceed the

prescribed
limit
for
seismic
equipment.
If weather is hot,
operation should be carried out in
early morning to avoid temperature
exceeding prescribed limit for
seismic equipment.
OFFSHORE
SEISMIC
RDING OPERATIONS

Vessel must be equipped with

adequate number of lifeboats and all
the individuals must be provided
with life jackets.

ii)

The
living
rooms
must
be
adequately isolated from the
compressor room to minimise the
effect of noise on the crew
personnel.

iii)

Use proper uniform, helmet, safety

shoes and earmuffs by all the crew
personnel.

iv)

Carry out regular Evacuation drills

and Fire drills to keep crewmembers
alert. All the crewmembers should
participate in the drill.

v)

All the crew on board should be

given
basic
training
in
understanding
the
radio
communication signals, particularly
the SOS message reading and
transmission.

vi)

Never smoke in a no smoking area.

vii)

Keep the floors of corridors, galley

and cabins clean.

9.3.3

Safety Precautions for Air Guns

RECO-

While carrying out seismic surveys

in sea, all the operations are
conducted from the vessel, which
houses the recording unit, surveying
or
navigation
equipment,
compressor for airgun charging,
streamer spool for laying out the
streamer.
The
operational
environment is totally different from
that onland.
Following safety
considerations are required in
offshore operations:
9.3.1

Safety of Equipment

i)

Protect instruments from damage

while heavy items are being carried
around in the instrument room.

ii)

i)

Secure all equipment properly on

their bases or in the racks to avoid
falling during roll and pitch of the
ship.

Failure to employ proper and careful

procedure may result in damage to
the airgun or injury to the personnel,
as airguns operate on high
pressure.

iii)

Manuals must invariably be kept on

the shelves after use.

iv)

Secure all plugs, connectors,

clamps etc. to avoid loose contact.
A)

Commencing operation of air gun

v)

Make sure that sufficient ventilation

is provided.
Do not block the
ventilation part of any equipment.

i)

Ensure that the air guns have been

properly assembled as per the
instructions of manufacturer.

Ensure that temperature in the

instrument room is not above the
prescribed limit of the instrument.

ii)

Ensure that all screws, nuts and

cotter pins are securely fastened,
during paying in and paying out of
tailbuoy and streamer.

B)

When air gun is pressurised

i)

Keep
personnel
away
from
immediate vicinity of air gun
(minimum 8 ft. distance away).

vi)

vii)

9.3.2

Protect equipment from seawater

etc.

Safety of Persons

18

ii)

Never pressurise air gun greater

than 500 psi when out of water.

iii)

Always reduce the pressure to 500

psi before pulling the gun out of
water.

iv)

Do not fire air gun ensure that the

electric power to the gun is
disconnected.

v)

Do not bleed air gun rapidly, which

may cause gun to fire.

vi)

vii)

viii)

ix)

x)

xi)

Different types of vehicles are used

in
geophysical
operation
for
transportation of men & material
from HQ to camp and from camp to
area of operation. Heavy vehicles
like drilling rig, Instrument van,
Vibrators, Explosive vans, Water
tankers are used for geophysical
operations. RTO & Safety rules to
drive the vehicles moving on Road
and in cross - country should be
followed.
Following guidelines for safe driving
are to be followed during field
operations:

Before pressurising the air gun, all

air gun lines are to be checked
properly.

.
i)

All moving parts (like pulleys, Vbelts etc.) should have proper
guards.

ii)

All the pressure lines should carry a

pressure gauge to indicate the
pressure in the respective line.

Over loading of vehicles should not

be
allowed
under
any
circumstances.

iii)

Inlet and discharge valves in any of

the cylinder should be checked
regularly.

Drivers of the vehicles should

maintain strict adherence to speed
limit.

iv)

Never screw down a safety valve to

keep it from leaking. Do not plug
safety valve.

The driver should not be allowed to

drive any vehicles in intoxicated
conditions.

v)

Never allow a safety valve to keep

blowing.
Check the possible
causes.

Separate vehicle should be used for

transportation of men and material
as per Vehicle Act.

vii)

Drilling rig should be parked at safe

distance from high voltage power
line.

11.

VIBROSEIS OPERATIONS

xii)

Frequent check of the cooling water

should be made.

C)

When Air Gun is out of Water

i)

Whenever the gun is out of water

and not in operation, it should be
vented completely.

ii)

Personnel
handling
air
guns
(disassembling, checking fasteners
etc.) should ensure gun is vented.

10.

SAFETY WHILE USING VEHICLES

IN THE FIELD

Before taking out the vehicles from

the camp, the vehicle should be
properly checked.

The vibrator is widely used as an

energy source for VIBROSEIS
operation. The vibrator may be
mounted on conventional trucks or
on specialised off-road vehicles.
The following precautions should be
taken during service, maintenance
and operation.
i)

19

Personnel protective equipment

such as hard hat, Safety shoes,
safety goggles, hand gloves, sun

protector, ear protectors should be

used.
ii)

At the time of checking always put

the transmission in neutral, set the
brake, and apply safety locks
provided.

iii)

iv)

between, as it may lead to serious

accidents.
xiii)

Before servicing, adjusting or

repairing vibrators lower the
attachments to their fullest extent. If
necessary, to raise them for access
to certain parts and secure support
by external means. Do not rely on
controls of supports or position
attachments for maintenance.

Before starting, at any Vibro Point, it

should be ensured that the base
plates of all the vibrators are kept
down making proper coupling with
ground and the system and lift
cylinder pressures are at mentioned
ratings, radio is switched on to
proper channel. Also, before
moving to next vibro point it should
be ensured that the base plate is
lifted up fully.

xiv)

While crossing the power lines,

antennas be removed or lowered.

Keep maintenance areas clean and

dry.

xv)

If vibrator is under repair, the radio

of the vibrator is switched off or start
code is changed because start
command from RU may initiate
sweep.

v)

Before repairing the electrical

system, make sure the batteries are
disconnected.

vi)

Carefully inspect equipment for

visual defect leaks in fuels,
lubrication and hydraulic systems.

xvi)

No untrained person should be

allowed to go near the vibrators
while in operations.

vii)

Check levels of fuel, coolant,

hydraulic fluid and lubricating oil.

xvii)

viii)

Since the system works at very high

pressure, system vibrator unit
should not be left unattended under
high pressure.

Stay at safer distance from the

vibrators as the hot oil splash may
create serious burns, in case of pipe
burst.

xviii)

The sequence of procedure to put

the system into or off the operation
be carefully followed.

After shifting gears care should

always be taken to slowly depress
the foot pedal so that the gears may
engage smoothly.

xix)

While operating near villages or

when profile crosses populated
areas, the drive percentage should
be reduced to safe level so as to
avoid any damage to property.

Hydraulic system should always be

pre-charged before starting the
prime mover driving the hydraulic
pump. This is necessary to avoid
cavitation in pump.

xxvii)

Never turn Electronics power supply

ON or OFF with hydraulic system
pressurised.

xxviii)

In the event of bursting of hoses,

press the emergencies kill of the
engine.

xxix)

All adjustments of high-pressure

hydraulic system should be done
with system, pressured upto 750

ix)

x)

xi)

xii)

The driving instructions mentioned

in the manuals are strictly followed
while moving in cross-country with
highly undulated terrains.
All the pipes of servo mechanical
system be checked properly before
starting the system for any leakage /
cracks / breakage at the ends or in-

20

PSI and not at 3000 PSI / or 210

Bars.
xxx)

firers, geophysicists, and surveyors

by an ONGC doctor or reputed
agency.

The transmission should be in a

neutral position while being towed.

12.

TRAINING

A)

Fire Fighting

D)

Fire drills should be held before

commencement
of
geophysical
operations and thereafter once in a
month. During fire drill every person
should carry out his duties as if an
emergency exists.

Head of Seismic Field Party,

Geophysicists, Drillers, Shot firers,
Surveyors and Staff posted in field
party should be trained for:
i)

Use, handling and operation of

different types of fire fighting
equipment. During training, actual
operation should be demonstrated
to trainees.

ii)

Made familiar with likely fire

situations and the best means of
tackling them.

iii)

Duties to be carried out in case of fire

B)

SAFE HANDLING OF EXPLOSIVES

i)

Training
for
safe
storing,
transportation and handling of
explosives and detonators should
be arranged through Department of
Explosives, Govt. of India or any
other reputed agency to shot firers,
Head
of
Geophysical
Party,
Geophysicists before assigning the
job.

ii)

Drivers engaged for transportation

of explosives and for operation of
vibrators should be trained about
hazards associated with explosives,
detonators and vibrators and evoke
prompt response in emergency.

C)

First aid

i)

First aid training to be given to staff

persons posted in the camp of
geophysical parties, drillers, shot

Fire Drill

E)

Refresher course
Refresher Course for shot firers,
geophysicist be arranged about the
safety measures to be taken in
storing, transportation and handling
of explosives once in every three
years.

F)

For the jobs awarded to contractors,

contractor and his persons should
follow safety rules as per this
Standard along with other Rules and
Acts of Govt. of India and company
representatives
should
inspect
these measures time to time.
Casual labourers and contractor
workers employed for drilling shot
holes should be briefed by their
supervisors for one day to provide
knowledge
on
the
hazard
associated with the drilling job. Safe
way to perform the job, safe
handling
of
equipment,
housekeeping etc. Persons should
be engaged for the job only after
one-day briefing and satisfactory
response from the individual.
Company representative should
check such briefing to labourers as
and when required.

21

13.

The source, which is used to

generate artificial waves, is known
as energy source. The most
commonly used sources are
Explosives, Vibrators, Airgun etc.

GLOSSARY
Aeromagnetic and Airborne
Gravity

Explosive magazine

In this type of survey magnetic and

gravity measurements are made
from an aircraft over the area under
consideration.

A place where explosive and

detonators are stored. These can
be permanent magazines as well
temporary (Portable magazines).

Air Gun
A seismic energy source, which
injects a bubble of highly,
compressed air into the water. Its
frequency spectrum depends on the
amount of air in the bubble, the
pressure and the water depth.

Geophone

Blaster

Geophone Array

The instrument used to transform

seismic energy into electrical
voltage.

A device to detonate explosive by

sending an electric current through
a blasting cap.

The use of areal, linear or

occasionally vertical patterns with
more than one geophone per
channel.

CDP Cables
Geophysical Survey
A group of long wires concealed in a
plastic covering, used in seismic
data acquisition to transmit signal.

A programme of geophysical
exploration which involves electrical
survey, geothermal prospecting,
gravity survey, magnetic survey,
reflection survey, refraction survey,
remote sensing, well logging etc.

Common Depth Point (CDP)

A technique of seismic data
acquisition.
Detonators

Global Positioning System (GPS)

A small explosive designed to be

detonated by an electric current and
which in turn detonates another
explosive.

An instrument used to fix locations

of point with great accuracy by
measuring coordinates.
Gravity survey

DGPS
Differential
system

Global

In this method gravitational field

over an area of interest, at various
locations, is measured with the help
of an instrument called Gravimeter.

positioning

Dheki
Interface
Manual drilling device using logs
and metallic pipes for drilling.

The common surface separating the

different media in contact.

Energy Source

23

Magnetic Tape

Seismic Survey

A sheet or strip of plastic, coated with

a magnetically sensitive material on
which information can be stored in
the form of magnetisation pattern.

A programme for mapping

geological structures by observation
of seismic waves, especially by
creating seismic waves with artificial
sources and observing the arrival
time of the waves reflected from
acoustic impedance contrasts or
refracted through high-velocity
layers.

Magnetic survey
Measurement of magnetic field or its
component at a series of different
locations, over an area of interest is
called Magnetic Survey. The
instrument used to measure
magnetic field is called
magnetometer.

Seismic waves
An elastic disturbance which is
propagated from point to point
through medium.

Magazine
Synchrophone
Building especially constructed in
accordance with the design approved
by the Chief Controller of Explosives
and intended for storage of
explosives.

A device which is used to blast

explosive by transmitting radio
signal, in general.
Shot firer

Mudpump
A water pump used to supply water
in drilling operation.

A license holder who is authorised

by Explosive Authorities to handle
explosives.

POL

Signal

Petrol, Oil and Lubricant

That which is sought which carries

desired information.

Reconnaissance
Theodolite
A general examination of a region to
determine its main features, usually
preliminary, to a more detailed
survey.

A precision survey instrument,

which is used in measuring
horizontal and vertical angles.

Rig
Uphole Shooting
A mechanical drilling equipment

The line along which seismic

measurements are made.

The successive detonation of a

series of charges, at varying depth,
in a shot hole, in order to determine
the velocities of near surface
formations.

Seismic Record

Uphole Time

A recording of the seismic data from

one shot, picked up by a spread of
geophones.

Time for the first wave, from an

explosion, to reach the surface at or
near the shot point.

Seismic Profile

24

Vibroseis

iii)

A seismic method in which a

vibrator is used as an energy source
to generate a controlled wave train.

Pucca flooring (cemented if

possible) for the residential
dwellings.

iv)

Fully equipped First Aid boxes at

least at two prominent places.

v)

Few trained first aid personnel in

each camp.

vi)

Adequate & appropriate Fire fighting

equipment at suitable locations in
the camp.

vii)

Lights at suitable interval within the

camp area.

viii)

Focus lights at Magazine site and

camp corners.

ix)

Generator for power supplies as

standby system in case of power
failure.

Vibrator
Vibrator is a mechanical device
being used as energy source to
create vibration.
VSP
VSP is a measurement of the
response of a geophone at various
depths in a borehole to sources on
the surface. A reversed VSP has
the source in borehole and
geophone on the surface.

14.

REFRENCES

ii)

Mines Act 1952

x)

Security system of the camp.

iii)

Mines Rule 1955

xi)

Communication system to be
checked before proceeding to field.

iv)

The Oil Mines Regulations 1984

xii)

v)

Indian Explosives Act 1984.

Availability of traverse report to all

crew heads.

vi)

Explosive Substances Act 1908

II.

STORAGE FACILITIES

vii)

Explosive Rules 1983

i)

Stacking of cables on the stand or

Hanging on the fixed bar.

viii)

Recommended Code of Practices of

ONGC

ii)

Hanging of the geophone strings.

Indian Electricity Act

iii)

Repairing kit for cables &

geophones.

iv)

Camp kit space and safety gear

storage.

v)

Storage of loading & shooting

equipment.

vi)

Separate storage space for storing

electronic equipment.

vii)

Separate POL storage facility at

camp.

viii)

Display of non-smoking board near

generator & POL storage site.

ix)

CHECKLIST
I.

CAMP

i)

Selection of isolated high ground

with road connection of sufficient
dimensions for camp establishment
to house the party personnel and
equipment.

ii)

Sufficient space between adjacent

thatch / tent houses while laying out
camp.

25

III.

PARKING SPACE

i)

Proper parking yard within camp for

various vehicles.

ii)

Proper light arrangement in the

parking yard.

iii)

Separate parking places for light,

medium and heavy vehicles.

iv)

Display of safety rules in bold letters

at parking yard.

v)

Provision of water filters for filtering

water for drinking purpose.

VII.

TRANSPORT FLEET

i)

Proper record of the statutory as per

Motor Vehicle Act for all the vehicles
/ drivers in the camp.

ii)

All the vehicles should be in proper

condition.

IV.
BATTERY CHARGING PLACE /
MAINTENANCE

iii)

Check the toolbox & spare wheel

used for each vehicle.

i)

Sufficient number of battery

chargers at camp kept in a separate
room.

VIII.
STORAGE OF EXPLOSIVE &
DETONATORS

ii)

Cleaning of the battery terminals

regularly.

iii)

Sufficient number of wooden planks

for keeping batteries for charging /
maintenance.

iv)

Charging of batteries at proper rate

& time.

V.
i)

i)

Proper fencing and light

arrangements around the magazine
area as per the Explosive Rule.

ii)

Separate box for storage of

explosives and detonators.

iii)

Display of a board of large size

stating Danger and Non smoking
zone.

GENERATOR ROOM

iv)

Display board showing license

number of the magazine.

Proper electrical panel for power

supplies from generator.

v)

A proper gate for entry.

ii)

Grouting of the generators.

vi)

Strict vigil and a security morcha

near the gate.

iii)

Silencer along with exhaust pipe.

vii)

iv)

Rubber mat in the generator room.

Proper earthing of the magazine

hut.

VI.

WATER FACILITY & DRAINAGE

IX.

i)

Sufficient number of tube wells for

washing, cleaning and toilet
purpose.

HANDLING OF EXPLOSIVES &

DETONATORS

i)

Explosives and detonators must be

transported during daytime.

ii)

While loading / unloading of

explosives in the vehicle, the vehicle
engine must be shut off and should
not be restarted until loading /
unloading job is completed.

ii)

Suitability of potable water.

iii)

Proper drainage around the tube

wells.

iv)

Storage of drinking water in clean

container.
26

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