1. Plan and prepare for planning drilling program

1.1 Access, interpret and apply drilling planning documentation and ensure the work activity is compliant

1.2 Define and confirm precise scope of work expected by client and other relevant parties

1.3 Communicate with all parties clearly and concisely to ensure that priorities and special requirements are understood and acted upon

1.4 Negotiate an achievable and acceptable contract with the client within the scope of the driller’s legal requirements and legal responsibilities

1.5 Achieve and document agreement on the drilling plan, by communicating and clarifying intended objectives and contract requirements with all relevant parties

1.6 Develop, in consultation, a time schedule for all operations

2. Inspect/research site for accessibility, services, hazards, legal and environmental problems

2.1 Establish size and nature of intended drill sites and designated routes to reach them

2.2 Assess topographical and geological features and identify preferred drilling sites

2.3 Locate and interpret specific relevant information from maps, diagrams or from other data

2.4 Identify legal and environmental limitations, and hazards applying to site and take appropriate action

2.5 Identify and honour locations of socially or environmentally sensitive areas according to the site agreement

2.6 Check availability and distance of water and/or other local supplies

3. Select appropriate drilling method

3.1 Read and evaluate available data relevant to ground conditions

3.2 Select optimum method of drilling and down hole tools, in consultation with other personnel

4. Prepare cost estimates, quotes and tenders

4.1 Prepare data for quote listing all necessary activities, materials and sub-contracting services needed

4.2 Allow a contingency sum for identifiable but uncertain factors

4.3 Use mathematical calculations and estimations to determine job costs

4.4 Document and present quote/tender

5. Arrange permits and licences

5.1 Determine and obtain the required permits and licences

5.2 Follow correct application procedures

6. Design and organise drilling program

6.1 Establish action plan to ensure completion of program to client satisfaction, within quality, time and cost parameters

6.2 Communicate scope of work to crew involved in drilling program

6.3 Prepare fieldwork instructions, detailing: project location, access, water supply, aims of project and detailed instructions

6.4 Note variations to scope of work/contractual requirements on log

6.5 Select appropriate and available crew and other resources for the job

6.6 Communicate, clearly and concisely, with crew(s) about job requirements, working conditions and role and responsibilities

6.7 Establish size and nature of intended drill rig sites, and routes for reaching them

6.8 Specify any access track, clearing or bench construction sizes and compaction required to support rigs and equipment

6.9 Clarify availability of site amenities and back up support

6.10Decide upon methods of controlling flow off site, disposing of wastes and restoring the site after the operations

7. Prepare WHS plan for site

7.1 Prepare plan to eliminate/mitigate hazards to designated level

7.2 Ensure signs, hazards and warnings are observed and consequences understood

7.3 Determine and acquire required safety equipment

7.4 Incorporate safety rules and regulations, legislation and specific site instructions

7.5 Obtain sign-off on commitment to work health and safety (WHS) plan from crew