Radiation protection for well logging operations in Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Abstract In well logging, sophisticated tools are inserted into a borehole to measure physical and geological properties of rocks surrounding the well. Some of these, known as nuclear logging tools, contain radioactive sources and are used to obtain useful information. When logging tools containing radioactive sources are inserted into the well, there is a risk that they may get stuck. If this occurs, a recovery operation, known as fishing, is used to attempt retrieval. If fishing fails to recover the radioactive sources, they are abandoned following an established protocol, which is in accordance with international, national and corporate standards, in addition to industry best practices. This paper provides an overview of radiation protection requirements for well logging operations in Saudi Arabia, to ensure the safety and security of radioactive sources, and the protection of workers and the public without impacting operational productivity.