International Well Control Forum

Practical Assessor Handbook

Name Function Signature Date

Rae Archibald Author 02/03/2017

George Galloway Reviewer George Galloway 03/03/2017

Kerrie Moffat Approver 09/03/2017

 Practical Assessor Handbook

Contents
1. Purpose................................................................................................................................. 3
2. Scope .................................................................................................................................... 3
3. Practical Assessor Responsibilities ....................................................................................... 3
4. The simulator ........................................................................................................................ 3
The simulator environment ................................................................................................. 3
Simulator exercises ............................................................................................................ 4
5. Before the practical assessment............................................................................................ 4
Pre-assessment checks ..................................................................................................... 4
Pre-assessment briefing..................................................................................................... 5
Permitted materials ............................................................................................................ 5
6. The practical assessment procedure ..................................................................................... 6
The plot/graph .................................................................................................................. 20
Calculating the final scores .............................................................................................. 20
Debrief the candidates ..................................................................................................... 20
7. Re-sit options for the practical assessment ......................................................................... 20
8. Completing the paperwork................................................................................................... 21
Paperwork sent to IWCF .................................................................................................. 21
Retention of candidate records......................................................................................... 21
9. Grading sheets .................................................................................................................... 21
10. Assessor accreditation ........................................................................................................ 23
11. Auditing ............................................................................................................................... 23
12. Reference documentation ................................................................................................... 23
13. Contacting IWCF ................................................................................................................. 23
1. Appendix 1 – Practical assessment re-sit options ................................................................ 24

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 Practical Assessor Handbook

1. Purpose

The purpose of this document is to provide practical assessors with a handbook that explains the practical
assessment procedure. This document should be used as a guidance document to assist practical
assessors to conduct IWCF practical assessments to IWCF standards.

2. Scope

This document applies to all IWCF accredited practical assessors.

3. Practical Assessor Responsibilities

Only an IWCF accredited practical assessor can conduct practical assessments.

The practical assessor must:

 be accredited at the centre location where the practical assessments are conducted.
 be competent in the operation and programming of the simulator.
 understand the content and procedure for carrying out IWCF practical assessments.
 conduct practical assessments in accordance with IWCF procedures.
 be able to perform the role of the Level 3 (Driller) and Level 4 (Supervisor) candidates when required.
 not coach, advise or help candidates in any way during the practical assessment.

4. The simulator

The centre is responsible for ensuring the simulator has been approved for use by IWCF. The practical
assessor must ensure the simulator is set up for use according to IWCF requirements.

The simulator environment

The simulator environment must meet the following requirements:

 The only people allowed in the simulator room during IWCF practical assessments are the
candidates being assessed, the IWCF accredited assessor, any assessors undergoing training and
an IWCF Auditor (if present).
 Only one practical assessment at a time can take place in any simulator room.
 During the kill phase of the practical assessment, the Level 3 candidate must operate the pump
while the Level 4 candidate must operate the choke.
 When portable simulators are used, the pump control panel and the remote choke control panel
must be-angled. This is so that the Level 3 candidate cannot see the remote choke panel and the
Level 4 candidate cannot see the pump control panel.
 Panels/displays must be positioned so that the assessor can discreetly observe the activity of the
Level 3 and Level 4 candidates.
 The assessor must be able to make adjustments to the simulator during the assessment without the
candidates seeing what changes are being made such as initiating the problem during the kill.
Therefore, the assessor must position the instructor station so that the candidates cannot see any
changes he/she makes.
 The following notices must be displayed in the simulator room:

a) Practical Assessment – Notice to Candidates

b) Practical Assessment – Notice to Assessors

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Simulator exercises
All exercises loaded on the simulator must meet IWCF requirements, which are outlined in the IWCF Well
Design Rules. In summary these are:

 Exercise wells used for practical assessments must be different to those used for training and
practice sessions.
 There must be at least three different exercise wells for each stack type to use during practical
assessments.
 Each exercise well must meet the minimum design rules with respect to depths, configuration,
formations and pressures.

5. Before the practical assessment

Pre-assessment checks
Before the start of a practical assessment the assessor must:

 check the candidate’s photographic identification and write the candidate’s name on the front page
of the grading sheet in accordance with the identification provided.
 must confirm the candidate’s identification has been checked by completing the ‘Candidate’s ID
checked’ box on the front page of the grading sheet.
 ensure the combination of candidates is one of the following:

a) One Level 3 candidate with one Level 4 candidate assessed as a pair

b) One Level 3 candidate with the assessor acting as the Level 4 candidate
c) One Level 4 candidate with the assessor acting as the Level 3 candidate

The above combinations of candidates are the only acceptable combinations.

Please note: it is not acceptable to assess two or more Level 3 candidates together or two or more
Level 4 candidates together. Candidates being assessed together must be assessed on the same
stack type.

 ensure the simulator environment is set up according to Section 4 of this handbook.

 load an appropriate exercise on the simulator according to the IWCF Well Design Rules ensuring
that re-sit candidates get a different exercise to any they have already failed.
 ensure the simulator line-up is set up as follows:

a) The standpipe manifold is not correct for drilling

b) The choke manifold is not correct for drilling
c) The remote choke is half open
d) The Blow Out Preventer (BOP) is not correctly lined-up for drilling
e) Manifold and/or Annular pressures are too low.

 ensure the simulator plotting has been set to record from the start of the exercise and that the
parameters below are in different colours from one another on the plot. The minimum parameters
to be recorded are:

a) The time on the x axis (horizontal axis)

b) The formation pressure on the y axis (vertical axis)
c) The Bottom Hole Pressure (BHP) on the y axis to the same scale as the formation
pressure
d) The drill pipe pressure on the y axis
e) The casing pressure on the y axis to the same scale as the drill pipe pressure
f) The pit gain or pit level.

 ensure the following details are printed on the graph:

a) The name(s) of the candidate(s)

b) The name of the assessor
c) The date of the assessment.
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 ensure the correct grading sheets below are ready and have been completed with the appropriate
centre, candidate and assessor details for the practical assessments:

a) Practical Assessment Grading Sheet – Surface BOP Operations

b) Practical Assessment Grading Sheet – Subsea BOP Operations

Pre-assessment briefing
Before the start of a practical assessment the assessor must advise the candidates that:

 the assessment will be conducted under exam conditions.

 the assessor will not coach, advise or help them in anyway but he/she may instruct them on the
operation of the simulator if they know what they want to do but cannot remember how to do it. For
example, the candidate wants to reset the stroke counter but cannot find the stroke counter reset
button. If this happens, the candidate must directly ask the assessor where the stroke counter
reset button is and then the assessor can show them.
 they cannot ask the assessor what they should do next in the assessment.
 the assessor must not prompt them at all.
 the Practical Assessment is a role-play scenario and they will be playing the role of Driller (Level
3) or Supervisor (Level 4) as detailed in the form Practical Assessment – Notice to Candidates.
 they cannot bring written instructions of any kind into the simulator room.
 before the assessment begins the assessor and Level 4 candidate must agree how the Level 3
candidate will be given instructions during the assessment. Acceptable methods are:

a) Verbal after the assessment has started

b) Written down on paper after the assessment has started
c) Written on a whiteboard/flipchart after the assessment has started
d) Or a combination of the above.

 the assessment must be conducted as a single non-stop exercise. If the assessment being
conducted is for a Level 4 candidate only, the pre-drilling preparation stage must still be completed
up to the time the Supervisor leaves the simulator room. Once the pre-drilling preparation has
been completed, the assessor can load a snapshot with the well shut in and pressures stabilised.
Before loading the new snapshot, a simulator plot/graph must be printed off showing the
preparation stages, the exercise will then continue. The assessor may, however, choose to go
through the drilling phase in which case there will only be one plot/graph.
 a problem will be given at some time during the kill but only one problem will be given per
assessment.
 the simulator must run at normal speed (real time) until after the problem and can run at an
accelerated speed from then on. The simulator must be returned to real speed at least 100 strokes
before the gas reaches the BOP.

Permitted materials
During the assessment candidates may only use the following materials:

 Blank paper, pens, pencils, ruler and non-programmable calculator. Devices with internet
capability are not allowed.
 The Level 4 candidate may be given a pre-kick data sheet completed with volumes and strokes for
the exercise depth (equivalent to page one of the IWCF kill sheet) and a blank kill sheet for use
when the well has been shut in (equivalent to page two of the IWCF kill sheet), all kill/kick sheets
must be approved by IWCF prior to use. In some cases, the pre-kick data sheet and the kill sheet
will be the same document. For clarity, the only details that can be given on the pre-kick data
sheet are:
a) The current mud weight
b) The shoe MD/TVD
c) The well MD/TVD at the start of the exercise
d) Leak-off test information/shoe fracture pressure or gradient/maximum mud
weight/Maximum Allowable Annulus Surface Pressure (MAASP) - any or all
e) String, open hole, annular, total well and surface line volumes and strokes for the
depth at the start of the exercise
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f) Riser and choke line lengths, volumes and strokes (for subsea exercises only).
g) The driller parameters i.e. Pump Speed, RPM and Weight on bit may also be given.

 The Level 3 (driller) candidate may be given a drilling trend/log sheet.

 A well kill trend/log sheet may be provided for use during the kill phase.
 A whiteboard/flipchart and pens.

Note: It is not a requirement to provide all of the above.

6. The practical assessment procedure

This section details the running order of a practical assessment from start to end. The running order assumes
it is a double assessment with a Level 3 (driller) candidate and a Level 4 (supervisor) candidate. Comments
are made for single candidate assessments when applicable. Subsea elements are clearly shown as being
such. Surface candidates do not have to meet the subsea elements.

Each step must be scored on the appropriate grading sheet as it happens. The practical assessment procedure
details the points that must be awarded for each step. Please refer to these grading notes throughout the
assessment.

Assessors have no flexibility to adjust the scoring.

The Practical Assessment procedure starts on the next page.

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DRILLER (LEVEL3) SUPERVISOR (LEVEL 4) NOTES

L3 Driller Pts Grading L4 Supervisor Pts Grading Notes
(4)
1. Prepare the drill floor Not on drill floor during this The line-up must be incorrect
stage. at the start of the exercise
The Driller must ensure the BOP 1 Line up standpipe manifold (please refer to section 5.1
stack and manifolds are ready ‘Y/N Grading’. above).
for drilling operations. 1 Line up choke manifold
‘Y/N Grading’.
2 Set up BOP Panel including
accumulator gauges
(1pt for BOP position and 1pt
for gauges).

(3)
1. Check the drill floor set up

The Supervisor is called to the 1 Choke manifold. The assessor must not
drill floor and is expected to 1 BOP Panel – Position of BOPs correct any mistakes that are
check that the line-up is correct. and Valves. not noticed.
1 BOP Panel – All gauges.

Supervisor either checks by

himself/herself or asks driller Please Note: Supervisor has
for positions/values. to perform steps 1-4 below
before he/she leaves the
floor, whatever order he/she
uses.

If line-up problems are only

corrected after the pumps
have been started for the first
KRCP, then zero (0) score.

(1)

For subsea assessments, the 1 Confirm choke and kill line The Supervisor must ask the
Supervisor must also confirm the contents Driller what is in the choke
choke and kill line contents. ‘Y/N Grading’. and kill lines. The assessor
can confirm it is current mud
in both but only when the
Driller has been asked.

The Supervisor can only ask

this question up to the time
the Choke Line Frictions
(CLF) are taken. If asked
following CLF, then zero (0)
score.

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DRILLER (LEVEL3) SUPERVISOR (LEVEL 4) NOTES

L3 Driller Pts Grading L4 Supervisor Pts Grading Notes
2. Set the choke position (1) 2. Give instructions (10)
4 pts – procedure to follow to
The Driller must set the choke 1 ‘Y/N Grading’. The Supervisor must give the 4 shut the well in, BOP and Shut-in procedure should
according to the shut-in method Driller instructions about well Failsafe/HCR valves to use, comply with industry best
given and/or confirm that the control awareness. and choke position are given. practise for the Hard or Soft
position is correct. If Driller does not receive 2 pts – procedure to follow to shut-in procedure.
instructions to place the choke NOTE: These instructions can shut the well in and choke
in the correct position, then the be given to the Driller at any position, but no mention of The assessor must ask the
Driller must do it on their own time up to the point when the which BOP or Failsafe/HCR to Supervisor why they chose
initiative before the pumps are Driller is about to place the Bit use. the shut-in method if the
operated for the first time on bottom. After that, then zero 0 pts – If no procedure to shut Supervisor does not give it as
(when KRCP is taken). If (0) points. the well in or checking of part of the instructions.
adjusted after this time, then choke.
zero (0) points. NOTE: If the Supervisor does Standard instructions are:
not give the Driller instructions 2 Reason for choice of shut-in Pick up to space out position.
on actions to take in the event of procedure. Shut down Rotary and
a drilling break or influx, the ‘Y/N Grading’. pumps.
assessor must do so when the Check for flow.
Supervisor has left the rig floor. One good reason. For If not flowing, call Supervisor.
example: If flowing shut-in as per
Company Policy. procedure then:
Hard shut in – minimise influx Check well is secure and call
size, minimise number of Supervisor.
actions.
Soft shut in – Deep well, high- It is not acceptable for the
density mud, liquid influx. Driller to be given instructions
which prevent him conducting
4 Action to take a flow check or detecting a
4 pts – If full instructions for drilling break. For example:
drilling break and influx. “When you detect a drilling
2 pts – if only partial break, drill a further ten feet”.
instructions given.
0 pts – If incorrect or no
instructions given.

(2)

For subsea assessments details 2 Hang-off procedure, space out Supervisor must state reason
must be included on spacing out ‘Y/N Grading’. for correct space-out for both
the tool joint. shut in and hang-off. Also
agree correct space-out
position with Driller.

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DRILLER (LEVEL3) SUPERVISOR (LEVEL 4) NOTES

L3 Driller Pts Grading L4 Supervisor Pts Grading Notes
3. Prepare to drill (2) 3. Instruct the Driller to record (4) 0 pt – If Supervisor forgets and Evidence that these
the kill rate circulating Driller has to remind him. measurements were taken
The Driller must measure and 2 Record ‘kill rate circulating pressure at given pump must appear on the simulator
record the kill rate circulating pressures’ (KRCP). As speeds. printout/graph and on the kill
pressure losses. requested by Supervisor or on 1 Pump 1 1st KRCP sheet. If the pump speed is
Driller’s own initiative. The Supervisor must give the 1 Pump 1 2nd KRCP not plotted, then the graph
Driller kill rates that are to be 1 Pump 2 1st KRCP must show that the drill pipe
Driller to suggest taking kill measured/recorded on both 1 Pump 2 2nd KRCP pressure is increasing for
rate circulating pressures if pumps. ‘Y/N Grading’. each kill rate chosen and for
Supervisor asks him to drill each pump.
ahead without them. The Supervisor should ask for
a minimum of two kill rate If KRCP’s are not taken
2 pts – If done with 2 pumps, 2 circulating pressures for at before Driller starts drilling,
KRCPs and remote choke least two pumps, else penalise then zero (0) score.
panel gauges. accordingly.
1 pt – If mistake (only 1 pump
or flow rate or use of incorrect
gauge).
0 pts – If 2 mistakes.

(2) (1)
The Driller must measure and
record Choke Line Friction (CLF) 2 Determine Choke Line Friction For subsea assessments, the 1 Instruct Driller on method to Separate lines on the plot
for subsea assessments at the for kill rate circulating Supervisor must instruct the use to record CLF for KRCP must show where CLF was
same rates as KRCP on the pressures Driller on which method is to be ‘Y/N Grading’. measured and added to the
same pumps. ‘Y/N Grading’. used to measure/record CLF. kill sheet.
If CLF’s not taken before
Driller starts drilling, then
zero (0) score.
4. Set the alarms (6) (2)
4. Check the alarm settings
Set alarms according to 3 Adjust and activate flow 1 Give Driller alarm settings
Supervisor instructions. Ensure indicator alarms, can be done Give the Driller the alarm ‘Y/N Grading’.
the audible alarm has been with the help of the Supervisor settings and ensure they have If not set by the time the
switched on/activated. ‘Y/N Grading’. been set accurately. 1 Physically check Driller has Driller starts drilling, then
set alarms accurately zero (0) score.
Adjust and activate PVT ‘Y/N Grading’.
3 alarms, can be done with the
help of the Supervisor
‘Y/N Grading’.

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DRILLER (LEVEL3) SUPERVISOR (LEVEL 4) NOTES

L3 Driller Pts Grading L4 Supervisor Pts Grading Notes

The Supervisor may help the Driller in running to bottom but must leave the drill floor when the Driller has tagged bottom. The Driller must now drill ahead with agreed drilling parameters of
Weight on Bit, RPM and SPM.

If there is no L3 (Driller) candidate, the assessor can load a snapshot with the well shut in on approximately ten barrels of kick with the pressures stabilised.

In this case, print out a plot/graph of the drill floor preparation stage before loading the new snapshot. This graph must be signed off in addition to the graph of the kill at the end of the assessment.
This will be an extra graph as two snapshots will be used.

If the assessor chooses to continue with the same snapshot and drill into the kick, then there is no need to print a graph off at this stage. The final end of assessment graph will be enough.

(13)
5. Drilling break

The Driller must recognise and 5 Recognise drilling break Not on the drill floor during this
respond correctly to a drilling ‘Y/N Grading’. stage.
break.

5 Take correct action The correct action will be to:

5 pts – If done as per Pick up.
Supervisors instructions. Stop rotating (optional for
2 pts – If any one failure to flow check).
fulfil Supervisor’s instructions. Space out.
0 pts – If Driller makes more Turn pumps off.
than one failure from Flow check and call the
Supervisor’s instructions. Supervisor.

3 Rest flow alarms The assessor can tell the

‘Y/N Grading’. Driller to continue drilling
rather than bringing the
Supervisor to the drill floor.

The Flow alarms must be

reset when returning to
drilling, including activating
the audible alarm.

NOTE: If the Driller takes no

action on the drilling break,
then award the points for
resetting the alarms.

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DRILLER (LEVEL3) SUPERVISOR (LEVEL 4) NOTES

L3 Driller Pts Grading L4 Supervisor Pts Grading Notes
(12)
6. Kick detection and well Not on the drill floor during this
shut-in stage.

Follow the correct procedure 5 5 pts – If Supervisor’s

before shutting in the well. instructions are followed
correctly.
3 pts – If bit kept at bottom.
2 pts – If pump stopped before
pulling the string.
0 pts – If more than one failure
to follow Supervisor’s
instructions.

Shut in the well. 5 5 pts – If done correctly. Correct procedure is to pick

2 pts – If Driller hesitates or up to space-out positon, stop
takes more than 15 seconds rotation, turn the pumps off
before taking proper action, and recognise flow.
after a positive flowcheck or
shuts the well in but not The Driller fails if drilling is
following the proper method continued for one minute
according to instructions i.e. after the kick is taken OR the
does not open side outlet Driller shuts in with the
valve. pumps running OR the kick
taken is too large to circulate
Note: See possible failure out without fracturing the
scenarios in NOTES column. formation OR the well is not
shut in.

Inform the supervisor. 2 First thing to be done once it is The Driller must call for the
confirmed the well is shut in Supervisor immediately after
and flow has stopped. If BOP the well has been shut in and
failure incident has been it has been confirmed that the
selected then Supervisor flow has stopped. The
should be called, after closing assessor should wait for a
another BOP and confirming period of time before calling
flow has stopped. the Supervisor to the rig floor.
‘Y/N Grading’. This is to allow time to
assess whether the Driller
starts to record the build-up
of shut in pressures.

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DRILLER (LEVEL3) SUPERVISOR (LEVEL 4) NOTES

L3 Driller Pts Grading L4 Supervisor Pts Grading Notes
(5)
Problem. 5 - BOP failure Not on the drill floor during this This problem can be given in
3 Recognise BOP does not seal stage. a number of ways:
The Driller recognises that the Driller has to recognise that
BOP has failed and closes the well is flowing. i) No reaction when the Driller
another BOP. ‘Y/N Grading’. operates close function, in
other words there is no light
2 Activate another BOP and change, no pressure drop
inform Supervisor of the and no flow count.
problem. ii) Partial reaction when the
‘Y/N Grading’. Driller operates close
function. In other words, the
light changes, but there is no
pressure drop or flow count.
iii) The BOP closes but leaks.

If the Driller fails to shut in the well as described above, and there is a Supervisor candidate, then the assessor takes over as Driller.

If a new snapshot has to be loaded to continue the exercise, then a plot/graph must be printed out before the new snapshot is loaded.

Not applicable to the Driller. Checking and instructions (2)

For subsea assessments, the 2 Positioning drill string, hang off The Supervisor must check
Supervisor must check the tool checking, BOP closing the tool joint position and give
joint space-out position. pressure adjustment if instructions for hanging off
required. the drill string.

(4) (8)
7. Collect shut-in data Correctly record pressure 5. Collect and check data The Driller record must show
readings. 2 Physically check hole depth the pressures recorded over
The Driller records shut-in data. The Supervisor must collect and ‘Y/N Grading’. time.
3 3 pts – If properly recorded check the shut-in data.
following pressure evolution 2 SIDPP The Supervisor must check
on correct gauge. 2 pts- If checked with evolution the data and not just take the
1 pts – If taken too soon or too 1 pt – If just collected from figures from the Driller.
late or on wrong gauge. Driller and not physically
0 pts – If not taken at all. checked. Permeability setting has to
allow a proper study of
2 SICP pressure build up.
2 pts – If collected and
checked.
1 pt – If just collected from
1 Correctly record gain Driller and not physically
‘Y/N Grading’. checked.
2
Physically check Pit Gain
‘Y/N Grading’.

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DRILLER (LEVEL3) SUPERVISOR (LEVEL 4) NOTES

L3 Driller Pts Grading L4 Supervisor Pts Grading Notes

8. Monitor BHP (3) 6. Monitor BHP (8)

The Driller must record the 3 Monitor surface pressures and The Supervisor must instruct the 5 5 pts – Instruct Driller to
pressure on a trend sheet or report to Supervisor. Driller to monitor and record monitor pressure changes on
blank paper and report it pressures and to advise both gauges, to avoid possible
regularly to the Supervisor. Driller has to do it whether or Supervisor regularly. losses at the shoe and state
not he/she receives why, e.g. to monitor for
instructions from Supervisor. NOTE: These instructions must migration that may cause
be given before starting to MAASP to be exceeded.
‘Y/N Grading’. complete the kill sheet. 3 pts – If just asked to check
that annular pressure is not
The Supervisor must complete a reaching MAASP.
useable kill sheet.

3 Complete a useable kill sheet The Supervisor fails if a

useable kill sheet is not
3 pts – If a useable kill sheet is completed within 15 minutes.
completed within 15 minutes
of collecting the shut in kick The Supervisor can request
data. an extra five minutes to
correct a problem they notice
Failure – If more than 15 on the kill sheet before it is
minutes needed to complete a handed to the assessor.
kill sheet, whether useable or
not. A useable kill sheet shows
the correct calculations for:

Kill mud weight, Initial

Circulating Pressure (ICP),
Final Circulating Pressure
(FCP) and a
Step down chart (a graph is
optional).

The assessor must check

the kill sheet before the
assessment continues. At
this time there is to be no well
control instructions
communicated between the
Driller and Supervisor.

If the Supervisor fails at this point the assessor must take the role of Supervisor to allow the Driller to complete the assessment.

Continue using the same snapshot.

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DRILLER (LEVEL3) SUPERVISOR (LEVEL 4) NOTES

L3 Driller Pts Grading L4 Supervisor Pts Grading Notes
7. Well control instructions (14) Kill Method and specific The kill method and reason
Not applicable to Driller. instructions. for choosing it must be given.
The Supervisor gives the Driller
well control instructions. 2 2 pts – If kill method given and
satisfactory explanation of
NOTE: All well control choice.
instructions must be given 1 pt – If kill method given, but
before beginning the Start-Up unsatisfactory explanation of
procedure. choice
e.g. Company policy
W & W Method – Shoe
position (open hole volume
compares to internal string
volume)
Driller’s Method – Time to
prepare kill mud. The Supervisor must tell the
Driller the mud weight to be
For the next five instructions prepared in order to kill the
10 ‘Y/N Grading’. well.

Prepare Kill Mud Supervisor must give clear

‘Y/N Grading’. instructions as to Drillers role
in the start-up procedure.
Start-Up procedure
‘Y/N Grading’. Supervisor must inform Driller
of the kill rate and that this is
Pump Follow Up (constant to be held constant following
flow rate) Start-up.
‘Y/N Grading’.
Supervisor must inform Driller
Driller to monitor pit gain to maintain a log of pit level
during circulation or gain during the kill. This
‘Y/N Grading’. must include how often e.g.
every 100 strokes.
Instruct Driller to record
pressures on a regular basis Supervisor must inform Driller
‘Y/N Grading’. to maintain a log of drill pipe
and casing pressures during
2 Reset Stroke Counters and the kill. This must include
record start time. how often, e.g. every 100
strokes.
2 pts – If both actions
performed. The driller must be instructed
1 pt – If only one action to record the time and not
performed. just reset strokes at start of
0 pts – If no actions the kill. The Supervisor or
performed. Driller must reset the Remote
Choke Panel Stroke Counter.

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 Practical Assessor Handbook

DRILLER (LEVEL3) SUPERVISOR (LEVEL 4) NOTES

L3 Driller Pts Grading L4 Supervisor Pts Grading Notes
9. Start the kill procedure (7) 8. The kill procedure (15)

Check the line-up of the 3 Line up circulating system in Check the line-up of the 3 Check circulating system in The Driller and Supervisor
circulating system, adjusting if preparation for the kill method circulating system. preparation for the kill method must check the manifolds.
necessary. ‘Y/N Grading’. ‘Y/N Grading’.

3 pts – If done according to Co-ordinate the start up with the 3 ‘Y/N Grading’. The Supervisor must give
Co-ordinate the start up with the Supervisor’s instructions with Driller. instructions for the start-up
Supervisor. 3 full communication. and the Driller must follow
1 pt – If done too quickly or them.
with no communication.
0 pts – If Driller stops or
decreases the pump speed Maintain correct pressure. 5 Maintain correct pressure For subsea assessments,
without instructions. 5 pts – If good manipulation CLF must be accounted for
with reference to correct correctly.
gauge.
Inform the Supervisor when the 1 ‘Y/N Grading’. 3 pts – If constantly opening
kill rate is reached. and closing the choke to
maintain correct start-up
pressure, or BHP falls below
formation pressure during the
start up.
0 pts – If not referring to the
correct gauge.

Make allowance for any time 4 4 pts – for steady choke.

delay. 2 pts – if constantly
manipulating the choke.
0 pts – if BHP fluctuates above
and below the formation
pressure, without stabilising
above the formation pressure.
The Supervisor fails if the formation fractures at any time during the assessment. This usually happens during start up and shut down phases and when handling problem No. 4.

The failure is first recorded at the point on the grading sheet where it happened and again at the end of the grading sheet where the point score is normally calculated. All sections in between must
be left empty.

Print off the plot/graph, have the failed candidate (Supervisor) sign the plot/graph and explain reason for failure. The failed candidate then leaves the assessment room. The assessor now
explains to the remaining candidate that the assessment will continue. Reload a new snapshot. The assessor takes the role of Supervisor to allow the Driller to complete the assessment.

On completion of the assessment the remaining candidate (Driller) will need to sign both plots/graphs.

There must be a problem initiated during each assessment. If it is an L3 (Driller) candidate on their own with the assessor acting as the L4 (Supervisor), then BOP failure is the most applicable.
If it is an L3 (Driller) only assessment and BOP failure has been used, then there is no need for an additional problem to be initiated during the kill phase.

If there is an L4 (Supervisor) candidate, then a problem must be initiated during the kill phase. The simulator must be run at ‘real time’ speed until after the problem has been dealt with. A
minimum of 250 strokes must be pumped in the kill phase before the problem is given.

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 Practical Assessor Handbook

DRILLER (LEVEL3) SUPERVISOR (LEVEL 4) NOTES

L3 Driller Pts Grading L4 Supervisor Pts Grading Notes
Problem 1 - Total pump failure (5) Problem 1 - Total pump failure (7)

Inform the Supervisor and shut 3 Driller has to recognise the Take the correct action. 5 Supervisor’s reaction has to The Supervisor loses marks if
down on his instruction. pump has failed and inform be quick enough not to let the BHP drops below the
the Supervisor, if not 0 pts. BHP drop below formation formation pressure.
pressure.
2 2 pts – If done according to
Co-ordinate the restart with the Supervisor’s instructions. 5 pts – If reaction of
Supervisor. 1 pt – If done too quickly. Supervisor doesn’t allow BHP
0 pts – If he/she stops or to drop below formation
decreases the pump speed pressure.
without instructions.
2 pts – If additional influx less
than 800 I (5 bbl).
0 pts – If additional influx
greater than 800 I (5 bbl).

Give the appropriate instructions 2 2 pts – Supervisor has to give

and co-ordinate the re-start with instructions correctly.
the Driller. 1 pt – If this is not done
correctly.
0 pts – If no instructions given.

Problem 2 - One bit nozzle (5) Problem 2 - One bit nozzle (7) NOTE: Drill pipe pressure
plugged plugged should increase by at least
Identify the problem and take 100 psi.
Recognise any sudden change 2 ‘Y/N Grading’. Identify the problem and take the 5 the correct action (the
in the pump pressure, inform the correct action. Supervisor has to stop the The correct action is to shut
Supervisor and follow circulation and review the down and marks are lost if
instructions. cause of the problem). the Supervisor does not shut
down.
5 pts – If reaction of
Supervisor doesn’t allow BHP The Supervisor loses marks if
to drop below formation the BHP drops below the
Stop pump as requested by 3 3 pts – If done according to pressure and problem is formation pressure.
Supervisor and coordinate Supervisor’s instructions. correctly identified.
restart of operations with 1 pt – If done too quickly. 2 pts – If BHP is allowed to fall
Supervisor. 0 pts – If Driller stops or below formation pressure
decreases the pump speed during reaction to problem.
without instructions. Give appropriate instructions 2 0 pts – If problem is not
and co-ordinate the restart with identified correctly.
N/A If Supervisor doesn’t stop, the Driller.
deduct these three points Give appropriate instructions
for Driller from total 2 pts – Supervisor has to give
maximum points. instruction correctly.
1 pt – If this is not done
correctly.
0 pts – If no instructions given.

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 Practical Assessor Handbook

DRILLER (LEVEL3) SUPERVISOR (LEVEL 4) NOTES

L3 Driller Pts Grading L4 Supervisor Pts Grading Notes
Problem 3 - Choke wash-out (5) Problem 3 - Choke wash-out (7)

Stop the pump when instructed 2 Stop pump Identify the problem and take the 5 Identify the problem and take The choke must wash out
by the Supervisor and restart ‘Y/N Grading’. correct action. the correct action (the gradually and cause a steady
when instructed by the Supervisor has to stop the reduction in casing and drill
Supervisor. 3 Co-ordinate restart circulation and review the pipe pressures.
3 pts – If done according to cause of the problem).
Supervisor’s instructions. The Supervisor loses marks if
1 pt – If done too quickly. 5 pts – If reaction of the BHP drops below the
0 pts – If Driller stops or Supervisor doesn’t allow BHP formation pressure.
decreases the pump speed to drop below formation
without instructions. pressure and problem is
correctly identified.
2 pts – If additional influx less
than 800 I (5 bbl).
0 pts – If additional influx
greater than 800 I (5 bbl).
Give appropriate instructions 2
and co-ordinate the restart with 2 pts – Supervisor has to give
Driller. instruction correctly.
1 pt – If this is not done
correctly.
0 pts – If no instructions given.

Problem 4 - Choke plugging (5) Problem 4 - Choke plugging (7)

Identify the problem and take
Stop and restart the pump when 2 Stop pump Identify the problem and take the 5 the correct action (the The choke should plug
instructed by the Supervisor. ‘Y/N Grading’. correct action. Supervisor has to stop the gradually and cause a steady
circulation and review the increase in casing and drill
3 Co-ordinate restart cause of the problem. pipe pressures.
3 pts – If done according to
Supervisor’s instructions. 5 pts – If detected before The Supervisor loses marks if
1 pt – If done too quickly. opening choke by ¼ more and the BHP increases more than
0 pts – If Driller stops or problem is correctly identified. 500 psi above the formation
decreases the pump speed 2 pts – If choke opened by pressure or BHP falls below
without instructions. more than ¼, or if BHP formation pressure.
increases more than 500psi
above pre-plugging value, or if
BHP falls below formation
pressure.
0 pts – If problem not
identified.

Give appropriate instructions 2 2 pts – Supervisor has to give

and co-ordinate the re-start with instruction correctly.
the Driller. 1 pt – If this is not done
correctly.
0 pts – If no instructions given.

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 Practical Assessor Handbook

DRILLER (LEVEL3) SUPERVISOR (LEVEL 4) NOTES

L3 Driller Pts Grading L4 Supervisor Pts Grading Notes

When the kill has been restarted after the problem has been resolved, the simulator speed can be increased to bring the gas to the surface more quickly. The Supervisor must have the kill under
control and confirm this to the assessor before the speed is increased.

The simulator must be returned to normal speed at least 100 strokes before the gas reaches the BOP. The assessor must inform the Supervisor that the simulator is running at normal speed.
There is no need for the Driller to record pressures during the accelerated phase but this must be resumed when the simulator speed is returned to normal.
10. Monitor circulation (8) 9/10 BHP control since start (5)
up
Maintain the pump speed, 4 ‘Y/N Grading’.
record pressures and pit level. Maintain the BHP, during and 5 5 pts – If BHP greater than or NOTE: The Supervisor loses
after evacuation of the influx. equal to formation pressure marks if the BHP drops below
Advise the Supervisor. 4 ‘Y/N Grading’. during evacuation of influx and the formation pressure,
immediately after mud returns excluding any start-up and
NOTE: The Driller must record to surface. shutdown operations (e.g.
data and report to the 2 pts – If any influx less than during a well control
Supervisor regularly during the 800 litres (5 bbl). problem).
complete kill (except the time 0 pts – If any influx greater
when the simulator speed was than 800 litres (5 bbl). NOTE: If the Supervisor
increased). fractures the formation when
the gas is evacuated or when
the mud returns are re-
established, the well must still
be shut in under instruction
so the Driller can finish off the
assessment (see section 11
below). There is no need to
reload a snapshot for this.

11. After evacuation of influx (4) 11. After evacuation of initial (10)
influx
Shut in under instruction and 3 3 pts – If done according to
advise the Supervisor when the Supervisor’s instructions. Co-ordinate the shutdown with 3 Shut the well in. The Supervisor loses marks if
pump is off. 1 pt – If done too quickly. the Driller. BHP must stay above the BHP drops below the
0 pts – If Driller stops or formation pressure. formation pressure.
NOTE: The Driller must shut in, decreases the pump speed ‘Y/N Grading’.
follow the Supervisor’s without instructions.
instructions and advise when the
pump is off. 1 Inform Supervisor when pump Interpret the pressures and 2 Check pressure and Gauges must be interpreted:
is stopped explain how to continue. interpretation of gauge
‘Y/N Grading’. readings: The Drillers’ Method
2 pts – Supervisor has to Shut In Drill Pipe Pressure
explain the Shut in Drill Pipe (SIDPP) should equal the
and Casing Pressure readings original SIDPP - if not, the
and relate them to any overall Supervisor must explain why
difference between actual not, (such as trapped
BHP and formation pressure. pressure or not removing the

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 Practical Assessor Handbook

DRILLER (LEVEL3) SUPERVISOR (LEVEL 4) NOTES

L3 Driller Pts Grading L4 Supervisor Pts Grading Notes
0 pts – If Supervisor does not safety margin when shutting
give this information. in).
The Shut In Casing Pressure
(SICP) should equal the
SIDPP - if not, the Supervisor
must explain why not, (such
as further influx).

The Wait and Weight Method

The SIDPP should be zero -
if not, the Supervisor must
explain why not, (such as
trapped pressure or not
removing the safety margin
when shutting in or wrong kill
mud weight).

5 An explanation of how the kill

Supervisor must explain how is to be continued:
to continue with circulation
5 pts – If well is clean: The Drillers’ Method
Continue with 2nd circulation Carry out a second
Driller’s Method. circulation to replace old mud
If there is some noticeable with kill mud. Reference can
gas: be made to the step down
Either evacuate the gas using chart or graph.
1st circulation Driller’s Method
or start Weight & Wait Method. The Wait and Weight Method
0 pts – If there is some Continue pumping until the
noticeable gas but candidate kill mud returns to the surface
wants to continue with 2nd and shut in pressures are
circulation Driller’s Method. zero.

Overall influx (5)

Not applicable to Driller.
No more than 8 bbl extra influx 5 Check that cumulative The Supervisor is an instant
has been let in since the start of additional influx volume does fail if more than 8 bbl of
the kill. not exceed allowed volume. additional influx is let in
during the kill operation.
5 pts – If volume is less than
1280 litres (8 bbl).
Failure – If volume is greater
than 1280 litres (8 bbl).

Advise the candidates that the practical assessment is now finished.

Complete the scoring and print out the log/graph before giving the de-brief.

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 Practical Assessor Handbook

The plot/graph

A plot/graph must be printed out and sent to IWCF for every practical assessment. At the end of the
assessment, the assessor must:

 print out one colour copy, which covers the complete assessment.
 if it is a Level 4 candidate only and the assessor loads a snapshot after the drill floor preparation
phase, print out a colour graph, which shows the drill floor preparation phase and another, which
shows the kill phase,
 if a candidate is an instant fail and a new snapshot has to be loaded, print out a colour graph before
the new snapshot is loaded and another at the end of the assessment,.
 ensure candidate(s) and the assessor sign all plots/graphs.

Calculating the final scores

When the assessment has finished, the assessor must determine the final score for each candidate by:

 adding up the total marks scored on each page and writing the total at the bottom of each page of
the grading sheet in the page total box; alternatively, this can be done during the assessment.
 adding each page total together to get the total marks scored and writing the total in the exercise
total box on the last page of the grading sheet.
 calculating the total marks scored as a percentage by dividing the total marks scored by the total
marks available and then multiply by 100. The percentage scored is rounded down to the nearest
whole number:

 A score of 69.9 is rounded down to 69%

 A score of 71.2 is rounded down to 71%.

In addition:

 The candidate must score 70% or more to pass.

 The final percentage mark must be written in the appropriate place on the first and last page of the
grading sheet.
 The assessor must sign the first page of the grading sheet when the final score has been added.
 The assessor has the ability to transfer the marks from the grading sheet to the appropriate section
of FORUM.

Debrief the candidates

When the assessment has finished and before the candidates leave the assessment room, the assessor must:

 give candidates their final score.

 discuss the assessment exercise with the candidates and use the grading sheet and graph to
highlight their strengths and weaknesses.
 if they fail, give candidates their re-sit options, detailed in Section 7 and answer any questions from
the candidates.

7. Re-sit options for the practical assessment

In order to pass the IWCF practical assessment, a candidate needs to achieve a minimum of 70%. If a
candidate fails their first attempt at the practical assessment, then they can take one re-sit before they try the
written examinations.

If a candidate fails their second attempt, (first re-sit), of the practical assessment, they must try the written
examinations and pass at least one component before they try a third and final attempt of the practical
assessment.

If the candidate fails their second attempt, (first re-sit), of the practical assessment and fails both written
examinations, then they cannot progress any further and must re-register as a new candidate.

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If the candidate passes their second attempt, (first re-sit), of the practical assessment, they must pass at least
one of the written examinations or the results of the second attempt will not stand.

Please refer to Appendix 1 for further clarification on the re-sit criteria.

8. Completing the paperwork

Paperwork sent to IWCF

The following practical assessment documentation must be uploaded to FORUM for each candidate:

 A colour copy of the plot/graph signed by candidates and the assessor.

 A copy of the appropriate practical assessment grading sheet.
 A copy of the kill sheet if it is an L4 (Supervisor) candidate.

Retention of candidate records

The following practical assessment documentation must be securely stored at the Primary Centre for the
duration of the candidate’s certification:

 The original copy of the plot/graph signed by candidates and assessor.

 The original practical assessment grading sheet.
 The original L4 Supervisor kill sheet.

9. Grading sheets

IWCF practical assessments must be scored using the current IWCF grading sheets for each step of the
assessment. Scoring must be done as outlined in the guidance given in this document; assessors have no
flexibility to adjust the scoring.

The most up-to-date versions can be found on the IWCF website. Printed copies cannot be guaranteed as
being current. It is the responsibility of the assessor to ensure they are using the correct grading sheet. The
current grading sheets are:

 Practical Assessment Grading Sheet – Surface BOP Operations

 Practical Assessment Grading Sheet – Subsea BOP Operations

The following sample page shows how the grading sheet must be scored, marked and completed.

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Pts. LEVEL 3 (DRILLER) 0 1 2 3 4 5 Score Pts. LEVEL 4 (SUPERVISOR) 0 1 2 3 4 5 Score

(4) 1. Prepare drill floor

1  Line up stand pipe manifold.   1

1  Line up choke manifold.  
0
Not on drill floor
2  Set up BOP panel (including all gauges).    2
(3) 1. Check drill floor set-up

1  Choke manifold.   1
1  BOP panel - Position of BOPs and valves.   1
1 - All gauges.   1
(1) 2. Set choke position (10) 2. Instructions

1  Set remote or manually operated choke in   4  Procedures to follow to shut the well in, and   
1 4
accordance with instructions. check choke position.
2  Reason for choice of shut-in procedure.   2
4  Action to take in case of a drilling break   
4
and/or influx detection.
(2) 3. Prepare to drill (4) 3. Instruct Driller to record kill rate
circulating pressure at given pump
speeds
2  Record kill rate circulating pressures as    2
requested by Supervisor or on Driller's own
initiative.  Pump n° 1
1  1st kill rate circulating pressure.   1
1  2nd kill rate circulating pressure.   0
 Pump n° 2
1  1st kill rate circulating pressure.   1
1  2nd kill rate circulating pressure.   0

7 6 17 PAGE TOTAL 15
PAGE TOTAL

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 Practical Assessor Handbook

10. Assessor accreditation

Assessors must maintain their accreditation with IWCF every two years by submitting a Practical Assessor and Instructor
Application Form Renewal. The requirements of this are summarised as:

 Maintain a current IWCF Drilling Well Control Certificate at level 4 in the highest level programme that they
intend to assess, (for example, surface BOP or combined surface and subsea BOP). The assessor must
achieve at least 90% in each assessment.
 Submit evidence they have conducted four practical assessments at level four. Applicants for surface BOP
assessor accreditation must submit copies of four surface BOP practical assessments on IWCF candidates.
Applicants for combined surface and subsea assessor accreditation must submit four practical assessments of
which a minimum of two must be subsea BOP practical assessments on IWCF candidates. Each of the four
practical assessments must cover a different one of the four problems set in the IWCF Practical Assessment
programme.

The evidence required for each practical assessment is as follows:

 A copy of the L4 grading sheet

 A copy of the signed plot/graph (colour)
 A copy of the L4 (Supervisors) completed kill sheet.

In addition to the assessment evidence above, the following must also be sent in with the application:

 The assessor’s current Curriculum Vitae

 A copy of the assessor’s passport page which contains the photograph
 A current passport style photograph.

The Practical Assessor Application Form Renewal must be submitted within 90 days of the assessor’s
certification/accreditation expiry date. If this is received after the 90 days, the assessor must submit a new application.
Please allow 20 working days for IWCF to process the renewal.

The expiry date of an assessor’s accreditation is governed by the date their IWCF certification expires.

11. Auditing
The practical assessor’s performance and record will be audited during the routine, regular audits of the Assessment
Centre.

In addition, the assessor may be audited at any time at the discretion of the IWCF.

The materials submitted to the IWCF by the assessor on completion of each candidate assessment are subject to audit by
the IWCF.

If non-conformances are found during an audit, the IWCF assessor will be asked to take corrective action, which may
include re-training, suspension or termination of their accreditation. Corrective action requests may also be issued to the
accredited centre concerned.

12. Reference documentation

The following documents can be downloaded from the IWCF website – www.iwcf.org

 Practical Assessment – Notice to Candidates

 Practical Assessment – Notice to Assessors
 Well Design Rules
 Practical Assessment Grading Sheet – Surface BOP Operations
 Practical Assessment Grading Sheet – Subsea BOP Operations
 IWCF Kill Sheet - Surface and Subsea various units
 Practical Assessor and Instructor Application Form Renewal.

13. Contacting IWCF

All queries relating to IWCF practical assessors and practical assessment procedures must be directed to
accreditation@iwcf.org or call (+44) 01674 678120.

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1. Appendix 1 – Practical assessment re-sit options

START

Failed initial
practical assessment Applicant can proceed
N to written papers
achieving < 70%

Applicant must achieve

Failed first ≥ 70% in at least one
practical assessment Applicant can proceed
N to written papers written paper for
re-sit achieving practical assessment
< 70%. re-sit mark to stand

Applicant must
proceed to written
papers

Not eligible for a re-sit,

Passes at must wait 90 days from
least one written N initial test date. Applicant
paper ≥ 70% can then re-register as a
new candidate

Applicant can proceed

and attempt the
second practical
assessment re-sit

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