Well Collision Avoidance Management and Principles

Abstract

Abstract The well collision avoidance management and principles presented in this paper are a culmination of the work and consensus of industry experts from both operators and service companies in the SPE Wellbore Positioning Technical Section (WPTS). This is not a new subject, but current guidance is disparate, company specific and occasionally contradictory. As a result, the guidance can be difficult to understand and implement. A further aim was to drive standardization of the well collision avoidance rules, process and nomenclature throughout the industry. Standardisation improves efficiency and reduces implementation errors. The consequences of an unplanned intersection with an existing well can range from financial loss to a catastrophic blow-out and loss of life. The process of well collision avoidance involves rules that determine the allowable well separation, the management of the associated directional planning and surveying activities and assurance and verification. The adoption of a particular minimum allowable separation rule, no matter how conservative, does not ensure an acceptably low probability of collision. Many other factors contribute, such as the level of compliance by office and rig personnel with collision avoidance procedures, and the completeness and correctness of the directional database. These factors are all connected. The material is split into eight sections, each dealing with a critical element in the collision avoidance process. Examples are presented to highlight good implementation practice. This aligned approach will dispel some of the current confusion in the industry over well collision avoidance; improve efficiency when planning and executing wells and build industry focus on the associated collision risks when drilling. The Technical Section is also supporting the current development of API RP78. This is the first of two papers. The second paper will cover the minimum allowable separation rule and its application, assurance and verification.