Safety Requirements Every Coil Tubing Crew Must Follow

Nate Jones, CPCU, ARM, CLCS, AU
4 days ago
2 min read

Safety is the cornerstone of successful coil tubing operations. With 2026 bringing new regulations and increased operator scrutiny, coil tubing crews must adhere to updated safety requirements to protect personnel, equipment, and contracts. Operators increasingly prioritize vendors with strong safety records, making compliance essential not only for worker protection but also for business growth.

1. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

All crew members must wear proper PPE at all times. This includes:

Flame-resistant clothing
Hard hats and steel-toed boots
Safety glasses and gloves
Hearing protection in high-noise areas

Using the correct PPE reduces injuries and ensures compliance with OSHA oilfield safety standards.

2. Equipment Inspection and Maintenance

Routine inspection of coil tubing units, pumps, rig-up trucks, and tools is mandatory. Critical requirements include:

Daily pre-shift checks for wear or damage
Scheduled maintenance to prevent equipment failure
Proper documentation of inspections and repairs

Regular equipment maintenance minimizes downtime, prevents accidents, and can help reduce insurance claims.

3. Job Hazard Analysis (JHA) and Pre-Job Planning

Before every operation, crews should perform a JHA to identify potential hazards. Pre-job planning should cover:

Well conditions and operational risks
Emergency response procedures
Communication protocols

4. Safe Handling of Fluids and Chemicals

Coil tubing operations often involve hazardous fluids, such as acid or nitrogen. Crews must:

Follow proper storage and handling procedures
Wear appropriate PPE for chemical exposure
Use spill containment and cleanup protocols

Proper chemical safety reduces environmental risks and protects crews, which is also a requirement for many pollution liability insurance policies.

5. Training and Certification

All personnel should be certified for their specific roles. Common certifications include:

CPR and first aid
Confined space entry
Rigging and lifting operations
OSHA-required training for oilfield workers

Continuous training improves safety performance, which can lower insurance premiums and strengthen vendor qualifications.

6. Emergency Preparedness

Crews must be prepared for incidents such as equipment failure, fires, or chemical spills. Essential steps include:

Clearly marked emergency exits and assembly points
Regular emergency drills
Accessible fire extinguishers and first aid kits

Operators expect proof of emergency preparedness during vendor approval and contract bids.

Why Choose Wexford Insurance

Wexford Insurance helps coil tubing companies secure comprehensive coverage that supports safety and compliance. We work with multiple oil & gas carriers nationwide to provide: