After a well site has been selected, a drilling rig is carefully
positioned on the site. A crew operates the rig, drilling down
hundreds - or even thousands - of metres. Special pipe known as
casing lines the well. The crew then pours cement into the well to
secure the casing and protect the water table.
After the casing is in place, the drilling rig is removed from
the site. A service rig and crew then install the equipment that
will allow the well to begin producing oil and gas.
Drilling and service rig crews travel extensively. A drilling
rig may be moved anywhere across western Canada and the rig crew
follows the rig. Crews typically work a two-week 'hitch', followed
by one week off. While they are working, crews stay in a camp
provided by the operating company or find accommodations in a
nearby town. Rig employees are paid an allowance to cover living
expenses while they work away from home.
For more drilling information, visit:
Canadian
Association of Oilwell Drilling Contractors (CAODC)
Represents Canadian land-based and offshore drilling contractors
and service rig contractors.
Interested in working in the drilling sector?
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