Shell’s well control manual previously referenced only the IWCF standard, though some drilling contractors had been able to have their internal WellCAP programs approved by Shell in some regions. In addition, Shell employees in the US have been trained to WellCAP as part of the company’s MMS Subpart O training plan.
Shell’s acceptance of WellCAP was applauded by Steve Kropla, IADC group vice president – operations & accreditation.
“WellCAP focuses on training, while IWCF focuses on testing,” Mr Kropla said. “They are two different approaches, but the consensus of regulators around the world is that either provide the required basic foundation of well control training.”
Providing contractors the option of utilizing WellCAP will prevent redundant and unnecessary training that has occasionally occurred in the past, Mr Kropla added.
He said IADC was in the process of obtaining additional information from Shell regarding implementation of the new policy and any possible exceptions or limitations to the acceptance of WellCAP. These details will be shared with IADC members as soon as they are available.
WellCAP has long been used as the internal training standard for several major operators, including Chevron, Occidental Petroleum, Petrobras and PEMEX. A number of major drilling contractors also utilize WellCAP for their in-house well control training, and a far greater number have their employees trained to WellCAP standards by commercial training providers.
