If you are a permit operator of a well operation, you have duties relating to the safety of all well operations. This covers the well’s lifecycle, along with specific well operations. You also have the duty to prepare and implement a well examination scheme.

These interpretive guidelines explain the regulations associated with design, construction, suspension and abandonment of wells, and well examination schemes under the Health and Safety at Work (Petroleum Exploration and Extraction) Regulations 2016.

We have produced guidance for permit operators who manage or control well operations or production installations, or drilling contractors of non-production installation on the design, construction, suspension, and abandonment of wells, and well examination schemes.

Petroleum: Well operations and well examination schemes

These guidelines cover Part 6 of the Health and Safety at Work (Petroleum Exploration and Extraction) Regulations 2016 that applies to permit operators who manage or control a well operation or a production installation, or drilling contractors of non-production installations.

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Petroleum: Well operations and well examination schemes (PDF 258 KB)

While this guidance has not been updated to reflect current work health and safety legislation (the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 and regulations), it may still contain relevant information and practices to keep workers and others healthy and safe.

Please read this guidance in conjunction with all relevant industry standards that apply to you as a PCBU. This guidance will be progressively reviewed and either updated, replaced with other guidance, or revoked.