TS 12827

TS 12827 is a professional standard for the operator of drilling equipment, commonly referred to as a driller. It focuses on defining and classifying the occupation, identifying the minimum tools and equipment used in the job, and setting out how the relevant attributes of personnel in each class are measured and evaluated.

The technical role of the driller occupation

Drilling operations are technical processes used to investigate subsurface conditions, create boreholes, or access underground resources. In practice, the operator’s role is broader than simply running a machine: it also includes setting up the equipment correctly, observing the operating cycle, and maintaining an efficient and orderly workflow with the appropriate tools. This standard frames how that professional role is described and which core elements are considered when evaluating competence levels.

Main elements covered by the standard

• Definition and classification of the driller occupation
• Minimum tools and equipment used in the trade
• Measurement of the professional attributes required for each class
• Criteria used to assess candidates or workers
• Different proficiency levels within drilling equipment operation

From a general technical perspective, a drilling equipment operator works with mechanical systems, rotating assemblies, drill strings, and auxiliary equipment while adapting to site conditions and controlling the operation accordingly. That is why technical knowledge, attention, equipment awareness, and work discipline are all relevant to the profession. TS 12827 serves as a standard that defines the occupation and provides a common basis for evaluation.