Guidance for the Development and Implementation of an Effective Well Integrity Management System

Abstract

The NORSOK D-010 standard established a definition of Well Integrity: “The application of technical, operational and organizational solutions to reduce the risk of uncontrolled release of formation fluids and well fluids throughout the life cycle of a well.” If that is the ultimate goal, how do we get there? This document was created with the goal to provide references, a basis of information, and guidance for best practices to operators for developing and implementing a Well Integrity Management System (WIMS). This paper will review the industry documents that address Well Integrity and outline their requirements or recommendations of a Well Integrity Management System (WIMS). This paper will address what elements should be covered in a WIMS. It will also expand on each of these elements in order to provide information and guidance for an operator to build a WIMS. This paper will cover the topic of best practices for successful implementation of a WIMS, from training, personnel buy-in, and auditing/tracking to verify the effectiveness of the program.