Mobilising a Drill Rig to a Remote Mine Site: A Practical Checklist

The most expensive day of a drilling campaign is the day the rig arrives and can't start. A little preparation on site avoids it.

Access

• Confirm the route from the nearest main road, including bridges, river crossings and tight turns.
• Tell us whether the last stretch suits a truck mount or needs a crawler (see crawler or truck-mounted).

Drill pads

• Prepare level, compacted pads large enough for the rig and the compressor.
• Rigs level themselves on hydraulic jacks (the PRD OZ RC has four), but they still need firm ground.

Fuel and water

• Plan fuel supply for the rig and compressor for the length of the campaign.
• If the programme uses water or foam injection, plan a water source and storage.

Safety

• Brief the crew on site rules, emergency contacts and the nearest medical facility.
• Mark exclusion zones around the rig. Check that rig safety equipment (fire suppression, emergency stops, guards) is in place on arrival.

Paperwork

• Have permits, site access approvals and any import or transit documents ready before the rig moves.

Communications

• Agree a daily contact and reporting routine: metres drilled, hours, issues.

Planning a campaign? Send us the site location and dates below and we'll plan the rig around them.