# Tasks & work activities — roughneck

Source: O*NET 30.3, occupation 47-5011.00 (Derrick Operators, Oil and Gas).

## Task statements

- **[Core]** Inspect derricks, or order their inspection, prior to being raised or lowered.
- **[Core]** Inspect derricks for flaws, and clean and oil derricks to maintain proper working conditions.
- **[Core]** Control the viscosity and weight of the drilling fluid.
- **[Core]** Repair pumps, mud tanks, and related equipment.
- **[Core]** Set and bolt crown blocks to posts at tops of derricks.
- **[Core]** Listen to mud pumps and check regularly for vibration and other problems to ensure that rig pumps and drilling mud systems are working properly.
- **[Core]** Start pumps that circulate mud through drill pipes and boreholes to cool drill bits and flush out drill cuttings.
- **[Core]** Position and align derrick elements, using harnesses and platform climbing devices.
- **[Core]** Supervise crew members, and provide assistance in training them.
- **[Core]** Guide lengths of pipe into and out of elevators.
- **[Core]** Prepare mud reports, and instruct crews about the handling of any chemical additives.
- **[Core]** Clamp holding fixtures on ends of hoisting cables.
- **[Core]** Weigh clay, and mix with water and chemicals to make drilling mud, using portable mixers.
- **[Core]** String cables through pulleys and blocks.
- **[Core]** Steady pipes during connection to or disconnection from drill or casing strings.

## Detailed work activities

- Assemble temporary equipment or structures.
- Clean equipment or facilities.
- Direct construction or extraction personnel.
- Inspect equipment or tools to be used in construction or excavation.
- Install drilling equipment.
- Maintain drilling equipment.
- Measure materials or objects for installation or assembly.
- Mix substances or compounds needed for work activities.
- Monitor extraction operations.
- Operate cranes, hoists, or other moving or lifting equipment.
- Operate pumps or compressors.
- Position construction or extraction equipment.
- Prepare operational reports.
- Train construction or extraction personnel.