Mastering Safe Gun Handling in Wireline Arming and Disarming Procedures

Posted on by Crissa Fel Tawadan

As a wireline engineer, I’ve encountered countless situations where safety and precision go hand in hand. One of the most critical processes in wireline perforating is the arming and disarming of explosive devices. Every step must be executed with meticulous attention to wireline control systems, wireline pressure control equipment, and safety regulations to ensure well integrity and operational efficiency.

Why Proper Arming and Disarming Matters

Handling explosive devices in wireline and perforating operations is not just about following procedure—it’s about protecting lives, assets, and well integrity. A single misstep can lead to devastating consequences, making explosive safety training and operational discipline non-negotiable in wireline services oil and gas.

From the moment we prepare a perforation well to the instant we complete cased hole logging, ensuring explosive devices are handled correctly plays a pivotal role in well operations. The best practice standards in the field provide a structured approach to keep wireline service providers, operators, and engineers safe.

Step-by-Step Guide to Arming Explosives in Wireline Logging

Pre-Arming Checklist

Before an explosive device is armed, several precautionary steps must be followed:

  • The engineer in charge must wear an approved armband safety key that remains visible outside the wireline unit.
  • The key is transferred to the lead operator once arming is complete to prevent any accidental detonation inside the unit.
  • Stray voltage checks must be performed and documented.
  • All grounding cables must be securely connected before any explosive handling.

Arming Process

  • Ensure all unneeded personnel are clear of the area.
  • Check the gun circuit with an approved blaster’s meter.
  • Attach the CCL/cable head to the gun.
  • Place the proper detonator in the safety tube.
  • Test the detonator resistance before arming.
  • Shunt the detonator leads and check for voltage.
  • Secure gun wires and prima cord before making connections.
  • Attach the ground leg of the detonator, followed by the hot leg.
  • Finalize the connection by installing the bull plug assembly.

How to Safely Disarm Explosive Devices

Sometimes, due to a misfire or the need to retrieve a device, we must safely disarm explosive equipment. This process is just as critical as arming and must be executed with precision.

Disarming Protocol

  • Conduct a tailgate safety meeting before initiating the disarmament.
  • Transfer the arming key to the lead operator, ensuring visibility outside the wireline truck.
  • Clear all unneeded personnel from the area.
  • Retrieve the gun from the well and lay it on stands.
  • Remove the bull plug assembly from the device.
  • Cut and remove the prima cord from the detonator.
  • Secure the detonator in the safety tube and shunt the wires.
  • Store the detonator in a Type III magazine for transport.

Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them

In wireline services oil and gas, unexpected issues can arise, and being prepared is key. Some of the most common challenges include:

  • Stray voltage readings – Always ensure a thorough voltage check before handling explosives.
  • Equipment malfunction – Routine maintenance of wireline tools, perforating guns, and pressure control equipment minimizes risks.
  • Misfire situations – Always follow proper disarming procedures to retrieve and neutralize the device safely.

Key Takeaways for Wireline Service Companies

  • Safety in arming and disarming explosive devices is non-negotiable. Proper wireline pressure control equipment and safety key procedures must be followed at all times.
  • Regular training in wireline logging and perforation services is essential to ensure engineers and operators can handle explosive devices efficiently.
  • Preventative maintenance of logging cable, wireline perforating gun systems, and cased hole wireline tools reduces the risk of failures.
  • Understanding voltage safety procedures ensures compliance with wireline service market safety standards and protects personnel.

Handling explosive devices in wireline perforating and production logging services is a task that demands a high level of responsibility. Every time we prepare for a well perforation, conduct a cased hole wireline job, or handle a perforating gun oil and gas operation, we adhere to industry-best safety measures to protect both personnel and infrastructure.

A well-prepared engineer is a safe engineer. That’s why we take safety procedures seriously, ensuring that wireline and perforating operations are executed flawlessly from start to finish.