Handling tool for casing tongs

A method for controlling a casing tong on a drill floor, the method being executed by a microprocessor with associated software, the method comprising:

• sending one or more commands to an arm of a pipe handler that is connected to a lifting tool, the lifting tool including a gripper head that is connected to a casing tong handling tool via a first connection, the casing tong being connected to the casing tong handling tool via a second connection, wherein the first connection has a first vertical centerline extending therethrough, wherein the second connection has a second vertical centerline extending therethrough, and wherein the first vertical centerline is offset in a horizontal direction from the second vertical centerline;
• wherein the one or more commands places the casing tong in a position to connect a first, upper tubular to a second, lower tubular or, after connection of the first and second tubulars, moves the casing tong away from the position, and further wherein the offset prevents the first tubular being connected from contacting the gripper head.