The International Well Control Forum (IWCF) is investing £200,000 in a new centre to enhance training for IWCF assessors and instructors in their continued mission to improve safety in the oil and gas sector.
The forum, which sets international training standards for well control, will open the facility in Montrose in June. Unique in conducting a formal practical assessment as part of its well control training, IWCF will house the latest in simulator technology at the new base.
This development supports IWCF’s drive for stricter assessor training, as all new assessors are now required to go through IWCF training as part of the ongoing accreditation requirements. The week-long course at the centre will help improve the way candidates are evaluated throughout their training.
David Price, chief executive officer of IWCF , said: “The quality of assessor training needs to be improved, as audits have revealed a lack of consistency in the effectiveness of practical course assessment. We aim to strengthen performance in this area so that the industry can avoid another tragedy on the scale of Macondo.
“This means taking a fresh look at what is taught, how it is taught and the tools used to assess and assure the competency of those involved in well operations. We have conducted training for both assessors and trainers at various centres, and it has been well received. Now our new facility will further improve the learning experience.
“Investing in the Montrose training base underlines our commitment to a step-change in well control knowledge and understanding. It will also reap benefits for the local economy as candidates from all over the world come to train here.”
Founded by the oil and gas operators in 1992, IWCF is an independent, not for profit organisation with elected representatives and a global network of branches, representing the entire industry. Headquartered in Montrose in the UK, the forum sets the international standard for well control training. It exists to improve well control competency and performance by developing and administering well control training, assessment and certification programmes for personnel employed in the well operations sector of the oil and gas industry.
Press Release, May 22, 2014