Drilling Operations Driller Surface Stack

Course overview

Role-specific well control training for personnel who are expected to recognize an influx, take immediate shut-in action and maintain control of the well from the Driller’s position. The course links well control theory with the practical decisions made on the rig floor, with strong focus on kick detection, shut-in, post shut-in monitoring, surface-stack equipment and simulator-based response.

5-day course format (IADC minimum 32 instructional hours including simulator training/assessment; written assessment time additional).

Why this course matters

The course develops the Driller’s ability to identify early indications of an influx, select and carry out the correct shut-in response, verify that the well is secure, monitor pressures and volumes after shut-in, and support the Supervisor during the subsequent well kill operation. Simulator exercises are used to turn the theory into repeatable operational actions.

Who should attend

• Drillers
• Assistant Drillers
• Other personnel with direct responsibility for monitoring the well, recognizing kicks and shutting in a surface-stack well

Prerequisite

First-time Driller candidates should have Introductory-level well control knowledge in line with IADC WellSharp requirements.

Course content

• Driller well control responsibilities and communication
• Pressure concepts and well control calculations
• Mud and pit management
• Pre-recorded data and kill-sheet inputs
• Causes of kicks and kick prevention
• Well barrier principles
• Shallow gas, water flows and top-hole drilling
• Abnormal pressure warning signs
• Kick detection and confirmation
• Well control drills and crew response
• Surface-stack shut-in procedures and verification
• Post shut-in monitoring and activities
• Well kill methods
• Casing and cementing considerations
• Risk management and operational discipline
• Surface well control equipment and BOP functions
• Simulator exercises and practical well control skills

Assessment and certification

• IADC knowledge assessment and simulator skills assessment.
• Candidates must achieve at least 75% in each assessment and correctly complete the required safety-critical simulator skills.
• Successful candidates receive IADC WellSharp Drilling Operations – Driller, Surface Stack certification.
• Certificate validity: 2 years.