REPORT NOVEMBER

476 2019

Recommendations for enhancements

to well control training, examination
and certification

competent enhance
Acknowledgements
Wells Expert Committee

Photography used with permission courtesy of BP p.l.c. and

©iznashih/iStockphoto (Front cover) ©Rumo/iStockphoto (Back cover)

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 REPORT NOVEMBER
476 2019

Recommendations for
enhancements to well
control training, examination
and certification

Revision history

VERSION DATE AMENDMENTS

1.0 October 2012 First release

1.1 August 2014 Minor correction (typo)

2.0 August 2016 Full revision

3.0 November 2019 Full revision

Recommendations for enhancements to well control training, examination, and certification

Contents

Scope 6

Foreword 7

1. Objectives of well control training 8

2. Well control training key topics 9

3. General recommendations for well control training 10

3.1 Operation type, environment, and equipment 10
3.2 Topics for emphasis in well control training 10
3.2.1 Monitoring, detection, and response 10
3.2.2 Risk awareness and risk management 12
3.2.3 Procedures and procedural discipline 13
3.2.4 Barrier management 13

4. Well control learning delivery 15

4.1 Role and operation specific well control training 15
4.2 Scenario-based training events 15
4.3 Continuous learning in the workplace 17

5. Role-Specific Training levels 18

Level 1 – Support Personnel Training 20
Level 2 – Operations Team Personnel Training 21
Level 3 – Equipment Operator training 22
Level 4 – Supervisor training 24
Engineer and Approving Authority training 25

6. Custom designed well control training 27

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Recommendations for enhancements to well control training, examination, and certification

7. Assuring the quality of well control training 28

7.1 Quality of Training Programme 28
7.2 Teaching, trainers and assessors 29
7.3 Updating training materials and methodology 29
7.4 Certification of individuals 30
7.5 Enhanced well control training 30
7.6 Quality assurance audit of well control training programmes 31

Appendix A. Managing risks, progression and dispensation 32

A.1 Managing the risks 32
A.2 Progression 32
A.3 Dispensation 34

Appendix B. Background on Human Factors/Performance

or Well Operations Crew Resource Management 35

Appendix C. Engineer & Approving Authority 37

Appendix D - Well Control Training – Levels Guidance Chart 39

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Recommendations for enhancements to well control training, examination, and certification

Scope

This report provides recommended enhancements to existing industry well control

training, examination and certification processes, as well as related philosophies
that should be considered for adoption throughout the industry to improve well
control preparedness and performance.

The content of this report applies to all types of onshore and offshore well control
operations worldwide. Its recommendations are applicable to the personnel who
plan, approve and execute well work at any stage of a well’s life cycle.

Issues specifically addressed include:

• well design
• design of activities on wells
• well construction (drilling and completion)
• well intervention, wellhead maintenance or work-over
• plugging, suspending and abandoning wells.

The focus of this effort excludes production-related work.

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Recommendations for enhancements to well control training, examination, and certification

Foreword

The exploration and production industry strives to consistently improve well control
competency of personnel involved with all oil and gas well operations throughout
the world, and this is actively managed by those who accept the risks associated
with well control events.

The second edition of Report 476 provided recommendations for improvements to

current well control training, examination and certification processes.

In this third edition, particular emphasis has been placed on:

• General minor updates to wording to clarify and aid implementation of the
document.
• Clarifying the previous Level 5 denomination of the Engineer and Approval
Authority Level, to help reduce perceptions that this level can only happen
subsequent to Level 4. Although individuals may take successive levels, this
is not mandated nor inferred as required.
• The Enhanced Level 3 and 4 has been more specifically detailed into the
body of the descriptions for level 3 and 4 to clarify that the Enhanced Level is
successive for these levels. The intent is to structurally raise competency levels
when repeat training is required to maintain certification. In this case, the
Enhanced Level 3 or 4 are indeed successive to the “normal” Levels 3 and 4.
• Included methods to enable accreditation bodies to verify that operator
internal development programs for Engineering and Technical Authorities
conform to intent stated in this report.
• Enhanced wording and support for continuous learning in the workplace and
the use of delivery methods other than classroom training.
• Section 7, Well Control Training for Specialised Operations, has been
replaced by a new Section 7, Custom designed well control training to more
accurately reflect current industry requirements. This also includes elements
of scenario-based training and encourages accreditation bodies to find ways
to accredit such training events.
• Further emphasise the need for practical assessments in the Well
Intervention syllabi and -through that- further encourage the development of
Well intervention simulators.
• The part on risk assessment/bow ties have been removed as it is covered in
other IOGP documents.

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Recommendations for enhancements to well control training, examination, and certification

1. Objectives of well control

training
The foundations of well control training are prevention, detection, and
management of well control incidents with the ultimate objective of avoiding
uncontrolled release of hydrocarbons which may endanger life, the environment,
public/private assets and company reputation.

Well control training should enable participants to receive and develop role- and
operation- specific well control knowledge, and to learn and practice well control
skills. Upon completion of training they should be able to execute their well control
responsibilities. Overall, as a result of effective well control training, the risks of
well control incidents and associated consequences should be minimised.

Well control responsibilities address, but are not limited to:

• identifying primary and secondary barriers across the well lifecycle
• recognising the importance of appropriate well design for well control safety
• explaining how well integrity is maintained
• recognising deviations from approved design
• identifying the well control risks associated with the tasks
• assessing the suitability of risk mitigations
• identifying risks, limitations, and proper actions for all operations per role
and operation specific responsibilities
• recognising limitations of equipment, according to role specific responsibility.
• responding effectively when primary and/or secondary barriers fail
• maintaining primary well control and contributing to secondary well control
operations
• explaining how to bring the well back under control and to normalise the
situation.

The industry aim is to ensure that suitable training is available and that this
training is administered, delivered, and assessed to an industry-recognised
standard as delivered through industry accreditation bodies.

Well control training should strive to ensure that the following learning outcomes
are emphasised:
• a common understanding of problem areas and solutions related to well
control management
• the knowledge of well control responsibilities of personnel relevant to their
function
• the focus on well control risks and contingency planning during well design
and operations
• the importance of well integrity throughout well life cycle.

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Recommendations for enhancements to well control training, examination, and certification

2. Well control training key topics

An individual’s role and operation type will determine the emphasis required for
each training key topic.

Individuals should learn what is relevant to their role and responsibilities. Learning
content should support the individuals in achieving their well control assurance
responsibilities.

Well control training key topics include:

1) The need for well control training
2) Well control risk management, management of change, and contingency planning
3) Well control risks and plans throughout the well lifecycle
4) Learning from past well control incidents
5) Pressure conditions in the well
6) Well design and barrier concepts, with corresponding calculation and barrier
envelopes
7) Primary barrier envelope components and functions
8) Ensuring well integrity
9) Behaviors and characteristics of fluids used in wells
10) Primary well control operations of monitoring, detection, interpretation, analysis,
and response
11) Drills, empowerment, and duty, including practical exercises
12) Detection of indicators that may lead to loss of well control or integrity
13) Equipment function and limitations
14) Controlling anomalous behavior, with defined well shut in and securing procedures
15) Regaining barrier integrity and safe resumption of operations
16) Human Factors/Crew Resource Management, HF/CRM.

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Recommendations for enhancements to well control training, examination, and certification

3. General recommendations
for well control training

3.1 Operation type, environment, and equipment

Complexities of well control can differ significantly with the nature of the
operations being performed, the environment the activity is in, and the type and
location of the rig or of the intervention unit.

Typical operations are:

1) Drilling, completion, and interventions that utilise surface well control
equipment.
2) Drilling, completions and interventions and rig operations utilising subsea
well control equipment.
3) Intervention, working predominantly on live wells (i.e., pressured well fluids
at surface). Entering an existing wellbore for remedial, suspension, and/or
abandonment purposes. This can include activities of wire-line, coiled tubing,
snubbing, well maintenance and completion, suspension and abandonment.
Activities could be carried out in various locations: land, shallow or deep
water as rig/vessel supported or may be stand-alone.

There should be adequate training coverage, as appropriate for the role and
specific operation, to ensure these programmes are designed and executed in an
appropriate manner and fulfilling the required competence for the activities.

Suspension, completion, work-over, and abandonment operations should be

covered in both drilling and intervention training categories.

3.2 Topics for emphasis in well control training

Topics that need emphasis in well control training programmes are noted in this
section. It is recommended that these topics be fully integrated into the training
programmes, providing real-life examples to illustrate good practice and what can
go wrong.

3.2.1 Monitoring, detection, and response

Training should focus on the skills required to manage well barrier integrity as
a key avoidance measure and for reducing the severity of a well control event.
Maintaining well barrier integrity necessitates learners have the knowledge and
skills with respect to best practices concerning well monitoring, detection of
anomalous wellbore behaviour, and response.

Training should include the discussion of the well control management plan for every
stage of the operation, ensuring that roles and responsibilities are clearly defined.

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Recommendations for enhancements to well control training, examination, and certification

Lessons learned from past incidents should be used to illustrate best practice for
each stage of monitoring, detection, and response.

Training with respect to monitoring should address barriers and all of the aspects
of operations that can impact well control assurance. It should include as a
minimum:
• monitoring the well parameters to identify possible anomalies for early kick
detection and achieving safe, rapid, and effective ‘shut-in’
• during well intervention operations on a well that is under pressure then
monitoring is expected to occur for signs of failure of pressure control
equipment (surface and subsea, as applicable)
• monitoring of well behaviours to stay within the predetermined operating
envelope is required for all operations
• monitoring is expected to occur on all operations on wells, including dead
wells and live wells (Dead wells could be reworked to reinvigorate and make
live again: the Operations Team should be alert and prepared for change in
well status)
• monitoring for signs of failure of subsurface pressure control equipment
during well intervention operations on a live well, e.g., deep set or shallow set
plugs, or downhole valves
• monitoring for signs of compromise of subsurface well integrity during all
operations, including well intervention activity into a suspended or dead well,
or whilst killing any well
• clear expectations around accountability and empowerment to -when in
doubt- shut in the well without consulting superiors

The following elements of training should be adopted to improve the ability of the
operations team to detect a possible influx or an unexpected anomaly at an early
stage:
• the importance and maintenance of kick and leak detection/notification
equipment being calibrated and activated when working on a well to
minimise the size of any influx.
• accurate interpretation of sensor readings
• the different signs of anomalies and early detection techniques that may
indicate influx potential

The learners will be taught that the well control management plans will include
the expected response, like.
• explicit shut in plans for each operation.
• agreed communication lines.
• planned drills and exercises in support of the expected response.

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Recommendations for enhancements to well control training, examination, and certification

Training should help foster a culture that does not ignore anomalies and
empowers teams to “shut in, if in doubt”. Well control training should communicate
a strong message that if a well is suspected to be flowing unintentionally, the
immediate response is to shut in the well, then investigate the potential influx or
anomaly (not investigate and then shut-in).

In certain operations where the planned response is not a typical well shut-in (i.e.,
during underbalanced drilling, managed pressure drilling, well kill operations or
cases where concern exists regarding barrier envelope capacity), training should
help develop the skills needed to return the situation to normal.

Training should promote understanding of optimism or confirmation bias, or a

false sense of security: it should encourage workers to be vigilant and thorough in
monitoring, detecting, and responding.

3.2.2 Risk awareness and risk management

The objective is to develop risk awareness and risk management skills. It is
recommended that fundamentals of risk management, as appropriate for each
training, are covered.

Training should cover the fundamentals of risk management, and how they should
be applied throughout the life cycle of a well. It should provide individuals with an
appropriate and role-specific ability to:
• explain the overall risk management process and the elements within it
• recognise hazards, their potential consequences and assess the associated
risk level
• recognise the significance of uncertainties
• participate in a risk management activity specific to their area of responsibility
• understand, or where appropriate implement, the process for determining
the risk management approach necessary to manage specific activities
• recognise the importance of situational awareness by the complete
operations team to managing well-site risks.
• explain the difference between an instruction, order and dialogue and
recognize situations where different types of communications are
appropriate.
• recognize how factors such as personal, interpersonal, workplace, cultural,
contractual and dispersed location can impair effective teamwork.
• recognize the critical importance of effective leadership to the management
of well control and safety.
• recognize that individual ability to remain alert and perform to a high
standard is influenced by both personal factors and the work environment.

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Recommendations for enhancements to well control training, examination, and certification

The operations team is the well operations personnel from oil and gas
producing companies, drilling contractors, well intervention and well
servicing companies, covering both well-site and office-based personnel,
that support the activity.

There should be a strong emphasis placed on how deviations from the plan or
changes to the process are to be managed, through an appropriate management
of change (MOC) process with all applicable risks considered and managed
accordingly.

3.2.3 Procedures and procedural discipline

Having appropriate procedures, which are followed and verified, is fundamental to
delivering a safe well operation.

Procedural discipline (sometimes known as procedural compliance) is needed to

guard against errors that can be induced by inappropriate substitutions or short-
cuts.

It is important that training conveys that any modification to procedures that

involves key barriers being installed, removed, or changed requires the following:
• a formal, job specific, risk assessment
• an appropriate management of change execution
• sign off by the designated approving authority.

3.2.4 Barrier management

Well control training should have a strong focus on the concept of barriers and
barrier management. It should include barrier selection, verification, monitoring
and repair, in relation to physical elements, management systems, and human
barrier elements and associated controls.

Such training should:

• ensure a comprehensive and common understanding from well design
through construction, operation and into suspension or abandonment – of
what constitutes barriers to flow (primary and secondary), how they are
verified, monitored and repaired
• ensure an understanding of well barrier elements and emphasizing the
importance of dual barriers or redundancy in barriers

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Recommendations for enhancements to well control training, examination, and certification

• convey the importance of maintaining dual barriers during operations on

and below surface casing (i.e., when a blowout preventer (BOP) or Christmas
tree is in place, or after barrier status changes like after cementing or when
perforation has been undertaken) and management of the barrier systems
when key barriers are installed, removed or changed
• indicate the importance of human intervention where a system requires
human initiation to achieve the required barriers
• ensure all participants know the barriers for which they are responsible,
e.g., on the basis of bow tie methodology as used in rig safety case analysis.

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Recommendations for enhancements to well control training, examination, and certification

4. Well control learning delivery

A person will have many well control learning opportunities throughout his or her
career. Methods are likely to be varied. Examples are set out here.

4.1 Role and operation specific well control training

The employer is responsible for assuring that all personnel who can impact the
well barriers have role and operation specific well control training.

Training should be focused on specific roles and the training should enable
individuals to gain the skills to demonstrate capability to fulfil their own well
control responsibilities. Examples of the roles typically held by the wellsite support
personnel are set out in Section 5 - Role-specific training levels.

Well control training for custom operations are set out in Section 6.

Role-specific training delivery may be in house or by third party training provider.

Assurance of the quality of the role-specific well control training may be carried
out in house. Alternatively, some operators could choose to manage assurance of
role-specific well control training via an accredited training body. These options are
discussed in Section 7.

Well-site support personnel, for example those contributing from service

companies, should have options for in-house focused training at the level of their
supporting responsibilities specific to their impact on well control assurance.

4.2 Scenario-based training events

Scenario-based well control training is a term that refers to training activities
where both technical and non-technical Human Factor/Well Operations Crew
Resource Management (WOCRM or CRM) skills are able to be applied to particular
challenging scenarios. This could utilise a well control simulator, other computer
simulation or desktop-exercise or even be carried out on a training-rig. See
Appendix B - Background on Well Operations Crew Resource Management.

Although scenario-based well control training has been available for several
years, it should become widespread as an essential component of well control
training and certification for personnel involved with the detection, shutting-in, and
recovery from well control events for all well lifecycle activities. It is expected that
Enhanced Level 3 and 4, described in Section 6, will be particularly beneficial.

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Recommendations for enhancements to well control training, examination, and certification

Scenario-based well control training:

• can be applied to benefit both the drilling, completion, and the well
intervention communities
• can enhance an operations team’s ability to quickly recognise and mitigate
well control events effectively and safely.

This method of learning, normally in a team (the team present in the class or the
operational team, or sub-team, designated by the operator), is especially valuable
when coupled with theory-based training and assessment.

Scenario-based training is of most benefit when entire rig or intervention teams

can be trained together for their specific well challenges and particularly for
complex wells (e.g., narrow margin wells and high pressure high temperature
wells).

Drilling Well on Simulator (DWOS) and Complete Well on Simulator (CWOS)

training events can create highly realistic and challenging scenarios that
allow teams to practice technical knowledge and procedural compliance and
understanding. This can help develop knowledge of Human Factors and the
application of WOCRM skills.

These training events should be created to offer learning opportunities to all in the
broad spectrum of team members. This should encourage learners to investigate
and learn in a multi-disciplinary group setting, e.g., the preparations for achieving
process safety. Such learning should improve knowledge and appreciation of the
barriers that are available in complex scenarios, be they physical, procedural
(human), or organisational.

Scenario-based training may also be performed together with office drilling/

completion/intervention engineers in order to enhance the communication of risk
identified and to obtain a better understanding as to how the plans and procedures
are to be applied during operations.

Scenario-based training is ideally developed jointly between the operator and rig
contractor and/or well intervention service company.

Scenario-based training can add particular value to difficult and complex well
operations. It can also be considered for wider application. In all cases the training
activity should allow “mistakes” to be made and promote learning in a safe training
environment rather than during a real event on the job.

Scenario-based training can address many aspects and should be targeted

to greatest relevant risks and criticality, based on the known and uncertain
parameters (e.g., varying pore pressures, fracture strengths, permeability, pore
content) leading to different type, size and kick intensity of influxes.

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Recommendations for enhancements to well control training, examination, and certification

The relevance to the participants upcoming activities is normally the focus, e.g.,
the uncertainty of the relevant fracture strength window of the particular planned
field activity. This could be for the construction of an exploration well, or of a
section to be drilled with managed or underbalanced pressure drilling, MPD/
UBD, method or of a well side-tracking activity. On the other hand, if a specific
well intervention activity has unknown or uncertain variables that could produce
a critical outcome, the training should be set up so that the response to these
should be practiced.

4.3 Continuous learning in the workplace

In addition to instructor led training and assessment, personnel involved in well
operations should also participate in continuous learning rather than relying only
on classroom based training and assessment processes. Continuous learning can
be achieved in a multitude of ways which may include online training, work site
training, face-to-face refresher training, and documented simulation exercises and
facilitated scenario based discussions with the crews at a work site.

Further examples include documented ‘hands-on’ well control simulation

exercises and kick drills (please see IOGP Report 628 - Recommendations for
enhancements to well control drills in the oil and gas industry). These should
simulate the different types of potential well control problems that may occur in
the planned operations.

These exercises should routinely involve supervisors and office-based staff, and
include a formal debriefing on how the well control event was managed. This
should not only serve to improve team response but will also serve to improve
active awareness in the detection and avoidance of well control events. For office
based teams, this can improve accurate problem diagnosis and formulation of an
effective response plan.

Continuous learning for all is strongly recommended to maintain proficiency in

order to keep focus on well control during design as technology, practices, designs,
and standards evolve with time.

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Recommendations for enhancements to well control training, examination, and certification

5. Role-Specific Training levels

Personnel should be trained and certified at a specific level appropriate to their

role. They should maintain certification while employed in that role.

In addition to the normal criteria that typically dictate the type of well control
training that a person receives (operation type, operating environment, rig type,
blowout preventer (BOP), intervention equipment type, etc.), there should also
be consideration of the role the person plays within the operations team in
determining final training requirements.

Members of the operations team are each responsible for well control duties:
these includes prevention, recognition, and response. The role-specific training
levels match the responsibility according to the actions which would be expected of
each person.

For example, of the well-site personnel – supervisory staff specify, oversee and
verify; equipment operators act to prevent or respond; and the other personnel
on site communicate any anomalous observations to the equipment operator and
supervisory staff. See Appendix A - Managing risks, progression, and dispensation.

Table 1 provides a summary of the role-specific training levels, which is followed

by a full specification of the responsibilities for each level.

The levels and responsibilities have also been collated into one chart:
476 chart - Well Control Training – Levels Guidance Chart, included as
Appendix D of this report.

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Recommendations for enhancements to well control training, examination, and certification

Table 1: Summary of the role-specific training levels

Level Audience Audience Role Objective

For individuals who need Attain ability to understand

Support
an awareness of what well the key topics that may
personnel
1 contributing to
control is and those who could impact Well Control
perform an action that might Assurance and provide
the Wells project
indirectly impact WCA effective support.

Attain ability to effectively

act under guidance on
Well-site based position
Operations items which may affect
2 Team Personnel
whose action or inaction that
Well Control Assurance
could directly influence WCA
and provide effective advise
within own area of expertise.

Attain ability to identify

Equipment Analyse Wells data and
correct actions to take on
Operator perform actions to prevent
3 or to respond to well control
tasks which may affect well
Enhanced Version Control Assurance and act
incidents
accordingly.

On site leadership and

Attain ability to anticipate,
oversight to ensure that
plan, oversee and verify
Supervisor correct actions are carried out.
items which may affect
4 In many cases, engineers and
Well Control Assurance.
Enhanced version approving authorities will also
Provide oversight during all
attend this level, but it is not a
operations.
formal requirement

Staff performing engineering Attain ability to design the

and planning activities to well and the well activities,
Engineer &
design the well, verifies that and to identify and specify
Approving
it remains within its operating actions to be taken when
Authority
envelope and manages stepping outside of the
appropriate risks. normal operating envelope.

Level of training according to responsibilities for Well Control Assurance (WCA) needs.
NB: The Engineer & Approving Authority training can be completed at any point after an individual
has completed the Level 1 training.

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Recommendations for enhancements to well control training, examination, and certification

Level 1 Support Personnel Training

Desired skills to attain

Familiarity with well lifecycle processes and terminology sufficient
to provide support to the rig crew.

Learning outcome
Describe the key topics of importance to well control incidents.

Repeat frequency
None

Content delivery method

Online modules or classroom. Include self-assessment
questionnaires.

Formal assessment
An examination for this level is not mandatory.

Support Personnel Training is recommended as a minimum for personnel

that are non-critical to well control operations, but may have secondary
involvement in well operations and may have some role in supporting the
avoidance or mitigation of a well control event.

This level does not need to be changed for different operation types,
environments, rig types or intervention equipment types, etc.

This training may be designed such that one training module or set of
modules covers all aspects of well control awareness training.

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Recommendations for enhancements to well control training, examination, and certification

Level 2 Operations Team Personnel Training

Desired skills to attain

Sufficient knowledge to understand how own work and
contributions may affect broader well control aspects.

Learning outcome
Attain well control knowledge and skills within their expertise area
(e.g., fluids, geology, cementing) to monitor, recognise irregularities
and report on same (monitor, observe, detect, report).

Repeat frequency
Every five years.

Learning method
Classroom, or online modules combined with an on-the-job
mentored programme.

Formal assessment
Completion of this training level should be verified with a pass/fail
examination. It is important to address any identified knowledge
gaps with a consultation or debrief.

Operations Team Personnel Training is recommended as a basic level well

control training module. Attendees should be any members of the well-site
operations team who work in roles which could directly contribute to the
creation, detection, or control of a well influx or lack of well integrity.

Support services should have Level 2 training relevant to their function and
its impact on well control assurance.

Training at Level 2 should be tailored to address the specific environment

(i.e., drilling or intervention) and type of well control equipment (surface
well control equipment or subsea well control equipment).

Continuous learning reinforces knowledge and skills, helps combat the

‘forgetting curve’ and helps close gaps identified in assessments. It helps
Operations Team effectively carry out their well control responsibilities.

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Recommendations for enhancements to well control training, examination, and certification

Level 3 Equipment Operator training

Desired skills to attain

Ability to identify correct actions to take in case of irregularities and
independently act.

Learning outcome
Ability to perform their role effectively. In particular, assure effective
well control barriers are in place and continuously maintained and
monitored. Explain the significance of formation pressures/strength
and geological uncertainty in the context of well control. Be able to
identify kick indications and anomalies and perform the first actions
independently. Be able to recognise that they are empowered and
required to act in this way. Be able to proactively communicate with
all personnel who provide support to maintaining well control (e.g.,
Level 2 personnel).

Repeat frequency
Every two years.

Content delivery method

Facilitated classroom or equivalent facilitated distance/online
learning using simulation, desktop exercises, presentations
and discussions, possibly complemented by online prework for
knowledge content and practice.

Formal assessment
Formal assessment will take place in a classroom environment
with a qualified assessor. Accomplishment of this training level
should be verified through an examination with pass grades as
defined by accreditation bodies, including practical assessment
using simulation. Such simulation would ideally involve a simulator,
however, where such simulation equipment is not widely available,
then assessment should include scenario-based exercises through
alternate simulation techniques. Such exercises are to be formally
monitored and graded.

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Recommendations for enhancements to well control training, examination, and certification

Enhanced Level 3
As candidates come forward for repeat biyearly recertifications,
Enhanced versions of Level 3 are encouraged in order to
provide continued deepening of skills towards a mastery level of
competency. Such Enhanced courses may be attended by individuals
who have scored above 80% in their previous Level 3 assessment
and should also include different well control scenarios. Whereas
such Enhanced level training to date typically have been carried out
for in-house programs, industry is encouraged to also develop open
seat versions and accreditation routes.

Equipment Operator training is recommended for any role that is expected

to shut-in a well such as a Driller, Assistant Driller and equivalent positions
in completions, well-servicing or intervention operations.

Training at this level should be tailored to the specific environment (i.e.,

drilling or intervention) and type of well control equipment (surface well
control equipment or subsea well control equipment). This training should
be administered as a classroom-based training course including scenario
based exercises enabled by simulation.

Continuous learning reinforces knowledge and skills, helps combat the

‘forgetting curve’ and helps close gaps identified in assessments. It helps
Operations Teams effectively carry out their well control responsibilities.

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Recommendations for enhancements to well control training, examination, and certification

Level 4 Supervisor training

Desired skills to attain

Ability to anticipate, plan, oversee, and adjust in case of
irregularities.

Learning outcome
Ability to establish consistent practices to assure continued primary
well control and well integrity. Ability to analyse and explain
subsurface predictions versus formation pressure and geological
data gathered during well operations, which are relevant to well
control. When anomalous situations occur, or conditions escalate,
they will be able to analyse the situation, develop plans to minimise
the impact and restore the situation to normal. Ability to supervise
recovery operations effectively.

Repeat frequency
Every two years.

Content delivery method

Facilitated classroom or equivalent facilitated distance/online
learning using simulation, desktop exercises, presentations
and discussions, possibly complemented by online prework for
knowledge content and practice.

Formal assessment
A formal assessment will take place in a classroom environment
with a qualified assessor. Accomplishment of this training level
should be verified through an examination with pass grades as
defined by accreditation bodies, including practical assessment
using simulation. Such simulation would ideally involve a simulator;
however, where such simulation equipment is not widely available,
then assessment should include scenario based exercises through
alternate simulation techniques. Such exercises are to be formally
monitored and graded.

Enhanced Level 4
As candidates come forward for repeat biyearly recertifications,
Enhanced versions of Level 4 are encouraged in order to provide
continued deepening of skills towards mastery level of competency.
Such Enhanced courses may be attended by individuals who

24
Recommendations for enhancements to well control training, examination, and certification

have scored above 80% in their previous Level 4 assessment, and

should also include different well control scenarios. Whereas such
Enhanced level training to date typically have been carried out for
in-house programs, industry is encouraged to also develop open
seat versions and accreditation routes.

Continuous learning reinforces knowledge and skills, helps combat

‘forgetting curve’ and helps close gaps identified in assessments, It helps
operations teams effectively carry out their well control responsibilities.

Engineer and Approving Authority training

Desired skills to attain

Ability to design the well and the well activities including ongoing
maintenance of well control and integrity.

Ability to identify and specify actions to be taken when stepping

outside of the normal operating envelope, particularly those actions
required to maintain well control and integrity.

Learning outcome
Possess capability to design and plan wells activities, taking into
account geological risks, formation pressures/strengths, and
any existing integrity or local concerns. Ability to monitor wells
operations and ensure they remain within the accepted design
envelope. Formally assess and mitigate risks and recovery/
mitigation methods for effective recovery in cases where design
envelopes may be at risk, including the use of deviations where
appropriate.

Repeat frequency
None prescribed at this point. However, continuous learning
refreshers are recommended that include a specific focus on
changing technologies, practices, designs, and standards.

Content delivery method

Facilitated classroom or equivalent facilitated distance learning,
self-study using simulation, desktop exercises, presentations
and discussions, possibly complemented by online prework for
knowledge content and practice.

25
Recommendations for enhancements to well control training, examination, and certification

Formal assessment
Accomplishment of this level of competency should be verified with
a pass/ fail examination. This assessment may also be incorporated
into a wells engineering examination process as part of a
comprehensive wells development programme. An alternative route
is to seek chartered engineering status for such programs.

Engineer and Approving Authority training: in addition to attending some

level of operational well control training, all personnel with a key role in
well design should attend a training course that includes elements of well
control that need to be embedded into well design, well control equipment
selection, and rig selection processes.

Attendance of Level 4 personnel to this training may be appropriate in

some cases, but the competence or interventions sought are role specific
and no mandated succession from Level 4 is inferred.

Many of the basic design concepts are similar between onshore and offshore
wells, with the exception of well control equipment selection and rig type
selection. Therefore, the training on well design need not be changed for
different operation types, environments, and operating unit types.

The attainment of skill as an Engineer or Approving Authority is likely

through a combination for formal training and experience, culminating
in an assessed Engineer and Approving Authority industry course.
It may also be attained through a comprehensive internal program
that individual companies provide for their staff. It should include the
elements described in the Appendix C [Well design and operational
implications].

 ontinuous learning reinforces knowledge and skills, helps combat

C
‘forgetting curve’ and helps close gaps identified in assessments. It helps
design, planning and operations teams effectively carry out their well
control responsibilities.

26
Recommendations for enhancements to well control training, examination, and certification

6. Custom designed well control

training
Additional training may be necessary for personnel involved with specialised well
operations. These courses may address more than just well control, but only the
well control relevant component is addressed here.

Each custom course or program with relevance to well barriers or well control
should address:
• an outline of the well control risks associated with each of the specialised
operations
• how these well control risks may be avoided
• specialised detection needs for well control issues
• how the well should be controlled under the circumstances that could arise
• specialised well control equipment requirements
• any specialised well control procedures and processes.

Examples of situations that might require specialised courses are: Managed

Pressure Drilling and Completion, High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT) Well
Construction or Intervention, Deepwater Activities, impact of H2S or training on
individual barrier elements like specialised drilling/completion fluids, cement,
mechanical barriers and production chemistry aspects.

The party leading the project would normally identify any role specific specialised
training necessary that may be in addition to the standard well control training.

The nature of such custom training means that individual accreditation of a course
historically has been impractical. Accreditation bodies are encouraged to explore
ways to efficiently review and accredit any such course content. Intent is that
accredited training providers can support industry with relevant custom courses
that has been subject to review, which will drive improvements and cross industry
learning in this field.

27
Recommendations for enhancements to well control training, examination, and certification

7. Assuring the quality of

well control training
Assuring the quality of well control training is underpinned by:
• the quality of the well control training programme
• the teaching, trainers, and assessors
• the currency, relevance and delivery method of the learning materials
• the performance criteria linked to certificate issuer
• the frequency and quality of repeat training
• the quality assurance audit, both external and internal, of all these aspects

7.1 Quality of Training Programme

Training providers for assessed well control training should be accredited by a
recognised independent industry body.

The Wells Expert Committee (WEC) relies on independent industry accreditation

bodies to audit the Training Programme of training providers. This helps ensure
that training is aligned with industry needs.

IADC (International Association of Drilling Contractors) and IWCF (International

Well Control Forum) are examples of organisations with peer input from operators,
drilling contractors, and service companies.

Any such accreditation parties, including an independent body with knowledge of

training and access to subject matter experts, may also carry out the accreditation
or review of a company’s ‘in-house’ programme, and issue a ‘statement of
conformance’ with Report 476 at a particular point in time. This may be relevant
for the Engineer and Approval Authority level which has not yet gained full traction
in our industry. The approach is intended to provide traction towards a more
structural accreditation system for such programs.

The quality of training has traditionally been based on an examination of generic

well control examples and basic calculations. This should further evolve to ensure
the quality of teaching and to ensure that learning objectives are met.

Training should be taught according to the stipulated syllabus. It is not sufficient to

base training on ‘test-similar’ or ‘test-identical’ exam questions to help facilitate
personnel passing the written exam. Industry accreditation bodies should assure
this is not happening.

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Recommendations for enhancements to well control training, examination, and certification

7.2 Teaching, trainers and assessors

Training providers should establish and implement programs such that all
candidates are trained to competently perform their assigned well control duties to
a consistently high level.

Instructors and assessors should be assessed and approved by industry

accreditation bodies or to equivalent standards through an independent entity.
Training providers should be responsible for the competency assurance process
of instructors and assessors. The process should include assessment and
verification of knowledge, skills, relevant well-site experience, behavioural skills,
and teaching ability.

The instructors and assessors should undergo an evaluation process by the

training provider no less than every two years. This evaluation process should
ensure they are effectively teaching the appropriate physical principles and
technical content in a way appropriate to the level of understanding of the
audience. The teaching should include adequate focus on development of
participants’ behavioural skills. The evaluation process for instructors and
assessors should include in-class assessment as well as reference to student
feedback. The aim is to foster an appropriate culture towards well control
throughout the industry.

If the well control training is by use of online or computer based learning tools,
all subjects listed in the syllabuses and/or curriculum should be included in the
training and be auditable.

7.3 Updating training materials and methodology

Training materials and methodology should be updated periodically per the
accrediting body’s requirements to reflect recent trends in well control events.
Industry-run well control incident databases should be annually reviewed for
this purpose and training subsequently updated. The most common types of well
control incidents occurring in the industry should be included into the training
materials.

Likewise, scenario-based training should be updated in the same manner and

frequency.

29
Recommendations for enhancements to well control training, examination, and certification

7.4 Certification of individuals

The individual is normally issued with a certificate to represent their having
attained the required performance criteria.

Records in support of an individual’s well control certification should be archived

along with documentation of their assessment per the auditable requirements of
the programme.

The accreditation body should address what is accepted as a pass grade for
assessment against the relevant performance criteria in a training environment.
However, this does not in isolation provide an assurance of consistent and repeated
use of a skill in the work-place.

7.5 Enhanced well control training

Experienced personnel with a successful history of attending well control training
will gain more from Enhanced training than repetition of the same course.

Enhanced well control training courses should be encouraged for levels 3 and 4
(3E, 4E) level as an alternative to repeating the same course. Personnel should
only be permitted to attend enhanced courses as an alternative to repeating the
same level of course if they have:
• already attended their suitable level of role-specific training
• passed the examination requirements for their role level with a high pass
mark (i.e., more than 80%).

While the enhanced courses are still expected to meet the requirements of the
role-specific training, the content may differ somewhat from the basic course.
Enhanced courses should be administered as a separate stand-alone course and
not simply be part of the well control training for each level. They should contain
scenarios based training and updates on recent events, as well as encourage
participants to share their well control experiences.

Scenario-based simulator training should play a major part in this type of training.
Candidates would undergo the same assessment process and receive the same
certificate as the relevant role-specific training courses.

Accreditation bodies can certify training providers to deliver such enhanced courses.

30
Recommendations for enhancements to well control training, examination, and certification

7.6 Quality assurance audit of well control training

programmes
A new well control training and examination programme should successfully
undergo an initial on-site audit by an accreditation body.

To ensure the quality and consistency of training undertaken by training providers,

an independent auditing process should be adopted to regularly confirm active
enforcement of the training provider’s processes. The independent auditing entity
could be a suitable qualified third-party able to demonstrate auditing ability and
knowledge of the key aspects of the training programme:
• the management system held by the organisation that assures training
quality
• the course content and delivery materials and methods held by the
organisation for each course
• the safe and suitable facilities held by the organisation for each delivery site
• the trainer instructional and technical competence including effective delivery
of content
• the appropriate and effective simulation training and testing with
assessments meeting a previously agreed set of performance criteria.

Both internal audits by the training ptovider and external audits by an independent
auditing entity should be carried out. This can include random checks and
depending on the findings the audit frequency should be adjusted. These audits
should establish the training programme adequacy.

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Recommendations for enhancements to well control training, examination, and certification

Appendix A. Managing risks,

progression and dispensation

A.1 Managing the risks

Each employer has responsibility for assessing which level of training an individual
employee should attend, and also for exemption if applicable.

A process of self-assurance should be carried out by employers in line with their

obligations under their own competency management system. An example of such
a system is described in ISO/TS 17969, Petroleum, petrochemical and natural gas
industries – Guidelines on competency for personnel.

This might be satisfied by employer issued certificates following in-house training

and assessment and need not involve certification from a formal accreditation body.
Evidence should be available to support certificate issue against a particular syllabus.

In such cases, employers should find it beneficial to receive an independent

audit to enable demonstration of improvement of their processes to support
certification. Employers may alternatively prefer to use the processes of
accrediting bodies to check that certification is appropriate.

Only guidance can be given by this report. Every situation will have a different
context or set of variables affecting it, and the related hazards and the risks.
Ultimately the employer, and usually the Petroleum Licence-Holder, has
responsibility for managing those risks.

Additional training, where applicable to manage the risks, should be tailored

specifically for the nature of the operations being performed, the environment the
activity is in, the type and location of the rig or of the intervention unit.

A.2 Progression
Progression of training is usually from one level onwards to another level.

Personnel should maintain certification appropriate for their current role in the
operation.

Progression as it pertains to levels is as follows:

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Recommendations for enhancements to well control training, examination, and certification

is considered stand-alone as it applies to many people, including

Level 1
those who do not participate in activities at the well-site.

apply to personnel working at the well-site and to a few others who

Level 2
can significantly impact the work there.
Level 3 In a person’s career path most people who spend some time at the
well-site will have the opportunity to experience the responsibilities
Level 4 of Level 2.
Some individuals will move on to a Level 3 role and a few will go
further to perform the supervisory responsibilities at Level 4. The
training scheme described lends itself to development of contractor
personnel which may function within drilling, completion, well
intervention or support roles.
As an individual’s role on the rig changes, individuals may need to
take a slightly different training

The Engineer and Approving Authority training is considered

separate from the progression of Levels 2 to 3 to 4.
Typically, this level is aligned with requirements for operator well
design and supervisory personnel and any contractor design staff.
This is due to the fact that such design personnel may, or may not,
have gone through the roles of Levels 2, 3, or 4. Usually their work is
carried out away from the well-site.

Level 1

Level 3 Level 4
L2
Level 2 L2 and 3 and 4
Enhanced L3 Enhanced

Engineer and
Approving
Authority

Figure A.1: Typical progression between the levels of Role-specific training

33
Recommendations for enhancements to well control training, examination, and certification

A.3 Dispensation
Most individuals in well-site roles will follow the route of progression described in
A.2 but there may be exceptions in special cases.

Dispensation for personnel certified by methods other than sequential level

training may be given by the operator to certain roles or functions where previous
learning or experience can be demonstrated.

Qualifying examples of work-related experience that may lead to considering

dispensation include:
• regional vocational training schemes
• operator in-house training programmes
• recognition for earlier expired qualifications
• operator staff qualifying from the outset at Level 4 due to other training

The employer should take responsibility for assessing which level of training an
individual employee should attend.

Examples where dispensation from the progression may be considered include:

• operator personnel in well design and/or well planning roles
• operator representatives at the well-site
• an offsite manager such as a superintendent

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Recommendations for enhancements to well control training, examination, and certification

Appendix B. Background on
Human Factors/Performance or Well
Operations Crew Resource Management
Crew Resource Management (CRM) began in the aviation industry to help flight
crews improve their skills in areas such as teamwork, leadership, situation
awareness, managing stress, and decision making. The concept has since been
successfully translated to a wide range of other higher-hazard industries, such as
the fire services, marine, rail, mining and healthcare. In the oil and gas industry,
the terms Human Factors(HF)/Human Performance are becoming accepted.

HF/CRM instruction is still in the process of being broadly introduced, accepted

and implemented within the industry. It may involve standalone training for some
period. Eventually it should evolve to be embedded in the well control curriculum
as well as industry practices and procedures.

The non-technical skills integral to HF/CRM are:

1) Situation awareness
2) Decision making
3) Communication
4) Teamwork
5) Leadership
6) Factors that impact human performance.

IOGP’s Wells Expert Committee has developed a number of resources designed

to promote non-technical skills in this sector of the upstream industry, known as
Well Operations Crew Resource Management (WOCRM):
• Report 501 - Crew Resource Management for Well Operations Teams
• Report 502 - Guidelines for implementing Well Operations Crew Resource
Management training
• Report 503 - Introducing behavioural markers for non-technical skills in oil and
gas operations

These reports provide guidance on introducing training of HF/WOCRM skills in

standalone courses that may or may not include simulation. Over time, these
skills can be routinely practiced and assessed in ongoing technical well control
training, the enhanced versions of Level 3 and 4, refreshers and in scenario based
discussions or training.

The intent of HF/WOCRM is to foster a climate or culture where an individual

has the duty to question decisions made by authority. The ability to pass on
and to challenge the relevant information freely should be encouraged in order
to recognise the discrepancy between what is happening and what should be
happening, as this is often the first indicator that an error is occurring.

35
Recommendations for enhancements to well control training, examination, and certification

Recommendations:
1) HF/WOCRM training events should be employed. These events might suit
a new team coming together or a seasoned team facing a more difficult
challenge than they have already mastered.
2) Work teams should undertake HF/WOCRM training as a team during the
training. That team might consist of personnel from several different
employers.
3) Where crew team training is not yet possible or practical, then individuals
should be given the benefit of training about non-technical skills and
opportunities to practice these.
4) Training in non-technical skills should start early in a person’s career and be
reinforced by refreshers to address their new work environments.
5) Where possible, the training of non-technical skills should immerse the
trainee in simulations and scenarios of real well-site events, even if this is a
desktop exercise when simulators are not available.
6) Training should take advantage of debrief and feedback. The use of
Behavioural Markers to assist with evaluation is encouraged.
7) Over time, supervisory staff should be trained to enhance their observational
skills, perhaps using behavioural markers together with their own technical
knowledge. The objective of having supervisory personnel undertake such
training is to strengthen their skills so that they are able to recognise and
address the human factor related issues as and when they arise.

36
Recommendations for enhancements to well control training, examination, and certification

Appendix C. Engineer &

Approving Authority
All personnel involved with well design and approval of well designs should attend
training that includes well integrity assurance with respect to well control.

This additional content is identified primarily for Engineer and Approving Authority
training and should include (but is not limited to):
1) basics of geology, the impact of rock behaviour on well control (e.g., rock
strength in relationship to wellbore pressures, the ratio of horizontal to
vertical stress)
2) holistic design for well control, including primary and secondary barrier
elements
3) uncertainties related to any of the inputs to the well design, construction and
operation processes
4) instruction on barrier integrity assurance
5) barrier requirements and impact well design
6) importance of annular cement integrity including:
a) cement testing and the importance of testing cement designs at the
correct temperature
b) pipe centralisation
c) impact of gas flow during and after cementing, and how this may be
mitigated
d) how unstable wellbores can affect cement integrity
e) impact of pressure testing (positive and negative) can impact cement
sheath integrity.
7) understand the need for and limitations of well integrity verification
techniques and requirements for tubular, valves, wellheads, cement and
formation integrities including:
a) pressure verification assurance methods
b) negative (or in-flow) pressure testing
c) electric log well integrity verification
8) well design according to the verification of integrity, including kick tolerance
9) well design to account for the management of corrosive well fluids and their
compatibility with hardware for continued integrity
10) well integrity monitoring in construction and throughout life cycle
11) the importance of well maintenance and formal regular well integrity testing

37
Recommendations for enhancements to well control training, examination, and certification

12) how to manage failed integrity, repair and post-repair well integrity
assurance including equipment redundancies and back-up equipment
13) principles for assessing risk and managing the risk through appropriate
avoidance and mitigation measures using realistic probabilities (from
industry data) of well control events
14) managing risks associated with programme or design changes and how
these risks should be properly managed (Management of Change – MOC)
15) shallow gas surveying, offset well analysis during the well design phase and
well design philosophies to manage shallow gas
16) appropriate design and subsequent operations practices to ensure wells are
suspended and/or abandoned in an appropriate manner
17) a short introduction of current tertiary well control techniques including:
a) relief well drilling, interception, and associated relief well kill
techniques
b) capping technologies that are available and under development
c) subsea containment technologies and techniques
d) oil spill clean-up technologies that are available and under
development.

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 Recommendations for enhancements to well control training, examination, and certification

Appendix D - Well Control Training

– Levels Guidance Chart
This chart can be found on the IOGP Members’ Area as 476chart.

Well Control Training − Levels Guidance Chart 476chart

VERSION 2
NOVEMBER
2019

Training is on Action may occur Guide to Typical Roles (Titles can vary between different companies, locations or facilities).
What training this person Repeat Learning Formal
Level responsibilities relative to Well Learning Outcomes Certificate for The Level may need to be adjusted depending on responsibilities.
needs Frequency Method Assessment
for Control Assurance a This list is not exhaustive: the principle is that operator and employer review what training is required to manage the risks.
1) The following non well-site office based staff in an oil and gas operating company drilling or well operations department:
a) Logistics coordination personnel and logistics supervisors
For individuals who
b) Subsurface staff/geologists involved with well planning and well scheduling personnel
need an awareness of A general overview Online
Awareness of the processes 2) Offshore Installation Managers (OIMs) that do not have a primary function for drilling and/or well intervention (i.e. Production OIMs)
what well control is of the life cycle of a modules or
All Personnel and terminology of well life Have relevant awareness knowledge 3) Roustabouts, deck crew, and platform and site location crane operators
and those who could well with emphasis None classroom.
1 contributing to
perform an action
cycle in order to develop of the Key Topics to provide effective
on how everyone’s (No repeat) Include Self-
None 4) Rig move captains or rig move Offshore Installation Managers (OIMs)
the well project adequate knowledge to support 5) Oil and gas installation supply and support vessel Watch Officers and Captains
that might indirectly role can affect well Assessment
provide the required support 6) Other non-critical well-site personnel responsible for downhole and surface well equipment repair, inspection and operations such as:
impact Well Control control Quizzes
a) Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) personnel (non-supervisory)
Assurance (WCA)
b) Other well-site non-supervisory and non-critical drilling or intervention personnel
c) Tubular and rig inspection personnel
1) Drilling, Workover and Completions 2) Intervention
a) Well-site operations engineer a) Well-site operations engineer
b) Well-site and office based operations geologist b) Intervention services crew members
c) Roughneck c) Well-site based wireline or slick-line crew members
d) Derrick-man d) Coiled tubing services crew members
Attention to Well e) Drilling Contractor Maintenance personnel e) Snubbing crew members
Control Prevention (e.g., maintenance supervisor, rig mechanic) f) Well test crew members
Well-site based and Response for the Classroom, f) BOP Equipment Installation, re-work, repair or maintenance personnel g) Pumping and stimulation crew members
Operations position whose action Have knowledge and skills to effectively appropriate online module
Skills to act under 3) Support Services b
2 Team or inaction that could
guidance
act under guidance (monitor, observe, equipment scenarios Every 5 years or on the job Examination
personnel directly influence detect, report) (surface / subsea): mentored a) BOP / Subsea engineer, dynamic position operator j) MPD / UBD well-site service personnel (non-supervisory)
(WCA) a(i) 1) Drilling programme b) Well-site ROV supervisor and crew k) Casing running personnel (non-supervisory)
2) Intervention c) Well-site drilling fluids, mud and completion fluids engineer l) Directional surveying / MWD / LWD personnel
3) Support Services d) Well-site directional driller m) Production staff / supervisors
e) Fishing engineer or fishing tool operator n) Crane operators suspending intervention equipment
f) Mud logger or well-site drilling data engineer o) Well head maintenance crew
g) Well-site casing crew supervisors p) Well-site oilfield equipment repair personnel
h) Well-site cementing operator q) Electric- supervisor and crew
i) Well head engineer r) Subsea wellhead / Xmas Tree engineer
Be able to perform their role effectively, 1) Drilling, Workover and Completions 2) Intervention
in particular by identifying anomalies Attention to Well
Every 2 years a) Driller a) Wireline, E-line, Slick-line operator
and performing the first actions Control Prevention b) Assistant driller b) N2 operator
Has to perform an independently, and recognise that they and Response for
3 action to ensure are empowered to do so. Proactively the appropriate
Level 3E can
Classroom
c) Wellhead / Tree installation engineer

and Equipment
WCA a(i) or to respond Correct actions to take communicate with all personnel who equipment scenarios
be attempted
and/or
Examination d) Hydraulic work-over (snubbing) operator

3E Operator
to well control provide support to maintaining well (surface / subsea):
2 years after
seminars c
and Practical d e) Coiled tubing operator and equivalent positions in other well-servicing
Level 3 has been or intervention operations
incidents WCA a(ii) control (e.g. Level 2 personnel). 1) Drilling
successfully 3) Support Services b
The Level 3E (Enhanced) is intended to 2) Intervention
passed
deepen knowledge and can be attempted 3) Support Services a) Subsea BOP Engineer c) Well testing crew
after having passed Level 3. b) MPD / UBD well-site service supervisor d) LMRP Engineer

1) Drilling, Workover and Completions 2) Intervention

Be able to establish consistent practices Attention to Well a) Drilling, Workover and Completions well-site supervisor, a) Completion / work-over / intervention supervisor or superintendent
to assure continued primary well control Control Planning, Every 2 years Superintendent or company man (day and night) b) Well-site completions / work-over supervisor
and well integrity. When anomalous Prevention and b) Tool pusher c) Supervisors or crew chiefs for special service operations such as
Specifies and has situations occur, or conditions escalate, Response for Level 4E can c) Drilling contractor rig manager wireline, slick-line and coiled tubing operations, that provide specific
4 oversight that correct Skills to anticipate, plan, they will be able to analyse the situation, the appropriate be attempted
Classroom
Examination d) Office based Operational staff (e.g. Senior Well Engineer, Operational well control equipment for these activities
and Supervisor
actions are carried oversee and verify develop plans to minimize the impact equipment scenarios 2 years after
and/or
and Practical d Well Engineer) d) Office based Operational staff (e.g. Senior Completions / Well Interventions
4E out and recover the situation to the norm. (surface / subsea): Level 4 has been
seminars c
e) Engineer, Operational Completions / Well Intervention Engineer)
The Level 4E (Enhanced) is intended to 1) Drilling successfully 3) Support Services b
deepen knowledge and can be attempted 2) Intervention passed
a) Offshore Installation Manager (OIM) for offshore units with a primary function for drilling or well intervention
after having passed Level 4. 3) Support Services
b) Well-site personnel supervising Managed Pressure Drilling (MPD) operations or Under-Balance Drilling (UBD) services
c) Hydraulic work-over (snubbing) supervisor
Skills to design the well and Have discipline-specific skills and Classroom Industry
Deliver the correct
well activities, including subsurface/geological/production One discipline and/or Examination, 1) Drilling engineer / Senior drilling engineer 7) Drilling manager (up to first line drilling management)
design and develop None
subsurface/geological knowledge to be capable of planning specific training seminars or a or auditable 2) Completion engineers / Senior completion engineer 8) Drilling project managers (up to first line drilling management)
Engineer and the normal operating (Continuous
knowledge. Skill to identify and performing safe well design and/ course or program development alternatives 3) Petroleum engineers / Senior petroleum engineers 9) Well operations managers
Approving envelope. Identify learning
and to specify actions to be or intervention operations. Be able to for all operations, program as deployed 4) Well service engineer / Senior well service engineer 10) Well services managers
Authority e actions with the agreed refreshers
taken when stepping outside evaluate technically on deviations to environments and encompassing in some 5) Intervention engineer / Senior intervention engineer 11) Office based design personnel
design envelope and recommended) f
of the normal operating the well operations plan and advise rig types all elements of company 6) Drilling / Intervention superintendent (if involved with well design) 12) Senior wells personnel, e.g. Team Leader and General Manager Wells
manage risk
envelope accordingly well planning c programs.
Chart excludes Well Integrity Assurance (WIA) during production use of the well.
a Well Control Assurance. WCA (i): The assurance that primary well control is maintained. WCA (ii): When this is not the case that the situation is properly contained and the status of the well returned safely to normality. d For Drilling (and for D/WO/C): Written examination and simulator assessment. For Well Intervention: Written examination and simulator assessment or approved alternative (e.g. scenario-based paper exercise).
b Well Support Service providers (or their training partners) are to identify and deliver appropriate well control training to their staff requisite for services provided. e Approving Authority is the individual providing technical oversight for the design and for deviations.
c Could be a fully auditable alternative. The Classroom is a Standard. The full capability should be demonstrated to meet or exceed the learning environment of the classroom. f Refreshers recommended because technologies, practices, designs, standards, etc. change with time.

39
 www.iogp.org
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[email protected]

This report provides recommended

enhancements to existing industry
well control training, examination
and certification processes, as
well as related philosophies that
should be considered for adoption
throughout the industry to improve
well control preparedness and
performance.
The content of this report applies
to all types of onshore and offshore
well control operations worldwide.
Its recommendations are applicable
to the personnel who plan, approve
and execute well work at any stage
of a well’s life cycle.
This report is supported by
476chart, Well Control Training –
Levels Guidance Chart.