How do you optimize the design and operation of well barriers to ensure well integrity?

2 Principle 2: Design the well barriers for reliability and redundancy

The well barriers should be designed to withstand the expected pressures, temperatures, and loads during the well life cycle. They should also be compatible with the fluids and gases in the wellbore and the surrounding environment. You should use high-quality materials and equipment that meet the industry standards and specifications. You should also provide redundancy in the well barriers, meaning that there should be at least two independent barriers for each potential flow path. Redundancy increases the safety margin and reduces the risk of failure.

3 Principle 3: Operate the well barriers with care and control

The well barriers should be operated in a way that preserves their integrity and functionality. You should follow the operational procedures and guidelines that are established for each well barrier. You should also monitor the performance and condition of the well barriers regularly and report any anomalies or deviations. You should use appropriate tools and methods to test and verify the integrity and performance of the well barriers. You should also maintain and repair the well barriers as needed and document any interventions or modifications.

4 Principle 4: Evaluate the well barriers for risk and improvement

The well barriers should be evaluated periodically to identify and assess any potential risks or opportunities for improvement. You should use risk-based methods and tools to analyze the likelihood and consequences of well barrier failures or degradation. You should also use performance indicators and feedback mechanisms to measure and improve the effectiveness and efficiency of the well barrier design and operation. You should review and update the well barrier envelope and schematic as the well conditions or objectives change.

5 Principle 5: Communicate and collaborate with the well barrier stakeholders

The well barriers involve multiple stakeholders, such as the well owner, the operator, the service providers, the regulators, and the public. You should communicate and collaborate with them to ensure that the well barrier design and operation are aligned with their expectations and requirements. You should share the well barrier envelope and schematic with them and solicit their input and feedback. You should also inform them of any changes or incidents that affect the well barrier integrity or performance.

6 Principle 6: Learn and innovate from the well barrier experience

The well barrier optimization is a continuous process that requires learning and innovation. You should collect and analyze data and information from the well barrier design and operation and use them to identify and implement best practices and lessons learned. You should also benchmark your well barrier performance against industry standards and peers and seek new technologies and solutions that can enhance your well barrier optimization.