IWCF Level 1 course showing definitions of Well Control (illustration: IWCF)

The International Well Control Forum (IWCF) has launched a global online training course that will be free to everyone in the industry to increase knowledge around what can cause a well blow-out and potential oil spill incident.

The interactive e-learning has been developed in response to the International Association of Oil & Gas Producers (IOGP) recommendations following the Macondo well blow-out which stated an introductory level 1 awareness training should be introduced. IWCF is the first organisation to achieve this and is offering the course free of charge through its website, supporting the organisation’s aim to increase competency and change behaviour in this safety-critical operation.

IWCF already offers the higher levels, 2, 3 and 4, which are targeted specifically at those involved with well and drilling operations, but plans for the new level 1 training to be accessible by everyone with an interest in the industry.

David Price, CEO of IWCF says, “It is important to us, particularly in the current climate within the industry, to give something back and by making this training readily available we believe that it will help to increase understanding of how well control events can occur and their consequences and prevention.”

 “The training is open to everyone, it is specifically aimed at those in the industry with a secondary involvement in well operations but students considering a career in oil and gas or anyone else with an interest in the industry will also find it insightful. Ultimately, we want to see an increase in well competency which will improve offshore safety,” continues Price.

The online training modules will start with a scene setter on how reservoirs are formed and the lifecycle of a well through to drilling and intervention activity and finally hazards, prevention methods and industry techniques to deal with a blowout with real life examples on Macondo and other incidents. Each module can be easily completed in half a day with the whole course taking around two days.

Tags: The International Well Control Forum (IWCF)