scope:

This RP is intended to provide safeguards for all persons who are required to work around or on oil well pumping units.

a) These safeguards should prevent bodily injury from contact with moving parts by anyone inadvertently walking into, falling, slipping, tripping, or similar action. The safeguards should also prevent injury from reasonable or predictable breakage of any of the component parts.

b) It is anticipated that persons who will be exposed to the hazards involved with the moving parts of a pumping unit are adults who are able-bodied and physically capable of performing useful work; they may be expected to be of normal intelligence and able to act with reasonable decorum and caution. They may also be expected to be aware of the potential hazards involved. The general public normally will not have access to the area where pumping units are located. Pumping units generally are in rural and fairly remote locations on private leases where the public would be trespassing.

c) Where unattended locations present close exposure to a community of people, safety barriers, such as provided by a totally enclosed and locked perimeter, may be required (see 4.4.1.3).

Purpose

This recommended practice (RP) provides a reference or guide for the design, manufacture, and installation of guards for oil well pumping units. It is based on practices which experience has shown to be functionally safe and practical.