This programme is for people who are in critical well control positions during well intervention operations. Candidates will complete an accredited training course, taught according to IWCF syllabus, to prepare for their assessment.
IWCF follow IOGP recommendations as to what course levels candidates should sit. Download a copy of the latest IOGP 476 Levels Guidance Chart here.
Different levels of training are available and are valid for the following lengths of time:
WELL CONTROL MANUAL 3 1.0.0 Definitions 1.0.1 Influx The flow of fluids from bottom into the well bore. 1.0.2 Kick Any influx or flow of formation fluid into the well-bore is termed as Kick. It may occur any time during drilling/ initial testing or work-over operation due to formation fluid pressure being greater than the bottom hole pressure. IWCF launched the Level 1 well control awareness course following recommendations in IOGP’s Report 476 after the Macondo tragedy. Level 1 supports our drive to increase the understanding of how well control incidents can occur, their consequences and prevention methods. Please note: IWCF training levels 2 to 4 are designed to be sequential and first-time candidates are expected to complete Level 2 before progressing to Level 3 or 4. However, the training levels are also designed to be role-specific and dependent on the candidate’s work experience.
The learning element of a Level 2 course can be completed online, however the assessment must be completed at an accredited training centre. For Level 3 and 4 courses, both the learning and assessment elements must be completed at an accredited training centre.
Our Well Intervention Pressure Control (WIPC) Subsea module was created to enhance the existing WIPC syllabus. Although this module is primarily aimed at Level 4 candidates, it is also available for Level 3 candidates who have experience of Subsea well intervention operations. Click here for more information on the Subsea module.
The aim of the IWCF Level 4 (Supervisor) Well Intervention Pressure Control course is to develop the candidate’s knowledge and understanding of well intervention pressure control. The Level 4 course focuses on the duties and responsibilities of an individual working in a supervisory role. The course includes compulsory training and assessment in Completion Equipment and Completion Operations; with optional modules including Coiled Tubing Operations, Wireline Operations, and Snubbing Operations (at least one of the optional modules must be selected).
The Level 4 (Supervisor) Well Intervention Pressure Control training and certification is recommended for those working in roles such as Well Services Supervisor, Completion Supervisor/Service Leader, and others with a requirement to hold an IWCF certificate. To view the full list of recommended job titles, please refer to the IWCF website: www.iwcf.org/programmes
Please note: IWCF training levels 2 to 4 are designed to be sequential and first-time candidates are expected to complete Level 2 before progressing to Level 3 or 4. However, the training levels are also designed to be role-specific and dependent on the candidate’s work experience. For guidance and advice on which level of training you are eligible for, please get in touch.
The course is delivered through presentation of a series of interactive lectures supported by videos and animations, supplemented by a classroom workbook and further self-study exercises. Where available, candidates are also introduced to simulated well intervention scenarios to add a practical element to the course and demonstrate the application of well kill processes. The course is delivered over 4 or 5 days depending on the location and includes IWCF written assessments on the final day.
Candidates must select a minimum of 1 optional well intervention module from the 3 available to be assessed in. Optional modules are i) Coiled Tubing Operations, ii) Wireline Operations, and ii) Snubbing Operations. Please be advised that the selection cannot be changed once the assessment is completed. Successful completion of the course and a pass mark of 70% or above in all IWCF written assessments will result in IWCF Level 4 certification which is valid for two years.
The candidate must be pre-registered with IWCF and able to provide his/her 6-digit IWCF Candidate Registration (CR) Number.
What is an IWCF CR Number? Click here to find out more.
Prior certification is not required but previous experience in a supervisor role during well services operations is assumed. Please contact us to discuss candidate suitability if you have any doubts or queries.