Production Assessment Record

Discipline: Production Operations

Plan Name: Wellhead and Manifold (Protection)

Plan Number: SPDC OPS-PO01

IVQ in Oil and Gas (8510): C&G Units 058,059,060,061

Assessor Name:

Candidate Name:

Assessment Date:

Revision Number: B Date: November 2014

 SPDC Production Plan Name: Wellhead and Manifold (Protection)
Discipline: Production Operations Plan Number: SPDC OPS-PO01

Administrative Section

Assessment Purpose:
To assess the candidate‟s competence to operate the Wellhead and Manifold (Protection) under Start-up,
Normal Operation, Planned Shutdown, maintenance and to de-isolate for reinstatement. Emergency
Shutdown conditions and to carry out Isolation for

Pre-Assessment Requirements:
• Candidate is qualified by training, and
• Candidate is authorised by designated supervisor to undergo assessment.

Instructions for Candidate:

Follow all safety procedures; perform steps in the proper sequence; complete all steps; and answer all
related questions to the required standards for successful completion of this assessment.

Assessment Fidelity Level:

High: Assessment takes place during the actual operation of the equipment/systems.
Medium: Assessment takes place during a simulated walk through (without affecting system
operations).
Low: Assessment takes place in off site situations, substituting paper activities for live
operations.

Reference Documentation:
Document Title: SPDC PO01 Wellhead and Manifold (Protection) Assessment Record

SPDC IOG/163 Opening a Surface Controlled SubSurface Safety Valve Using a Hydraulic
Hand Pump
SPDC IOG/158 Commissioning a Control-O-matic Unit at the Wellhead
SPDC IOG/109 Depressurising an Oil Flowline
SPDC IOG/113 Opening Up a Gas Well to a Gas Plant.
SPDC IOG/149 Opening a Closed-in Oil Well to theFlowstation
SPDC IOG/116 Wellhead Valves and SCSSSV Routine Leak Test
SPDC IOG/122 Inspect/Change a Bean at the Wellhead
SPDC IOG/123 Depressurising a Gas Flowline and Inlet Manifold
SPDC IOG/129 Check/Change a Bean at the Inlet Manifold

Revision Number: C Page 1 Date: November 2014

 SPDC Production Plan Name: Wellhead and Manifold (Protection)
Discipline: Production Operations Plan Number: SPDC OPS-PO01

Document Number: Procedure No. 2/001 Wellhead and Manifold (Protection)

PEFS: As required for area of assessment

Cause and Effect Chart: As required for area of assessment

Figures: 1.1 Wellhead Xmas Tree, Wellhead Protection Equipment

2.1 Flowline
2.2 Production Inlet Manifold

Valve Checklists: If applicable

Tasks to be Assessed:
To be considered competent for the operation of the Wellhead and Manifold (Protection) system, the
candidate must complete and be assessed on the following tasks:

1. Unit 058 Prepare & Start up System/ equipment

2. Unit 059 Monitor/ Optimise/ Troubleshoot System/ equipment
3. Unit 060 Prepare & Shutdown System/ equipment
4 Unit 061 Prepare System/ equipment for maintenance

Learning outcomes:
1. Plan and prepare to carry out a Production Process
2. Begin and Start up the System
3. Operate Systems
4. Check Systems
5. Arrange Systems for Shutdown
6. Practically Shut down Systems
7. Make arrangements to the plant and equipment for maintenance
8. Isolate plant and equipment
9. Restore (de-isolate) plant and equipment.

Revision Number: C Page 2 Date: November 2014

 SPDC Production Plan Name: Wellhead and Manifold (Protection)
Discipline: Production Operations Plan Number: SPDC OPS-PO01

Wellhead And Manifold (Protection) - System Knowledge Assessment

Summary:
• Sketch a simplified flow diagram from Wellhead to Manifold.
• Identify the boundaries of the system.
• Identify the appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) required for the system.
• Identify the major hazards associated with the system.
• Locate, identify and state the purpose of the listed components for the system.
• Trace the process flows to and from all essential equipment within the system.
• Describe the operating principles and critical issues of all the essential equipment.

Sketch Simplified System Flow Diagram:

Successfully
Assessment Objectives Criteria for Successful Assessment completed
objective?

Candidate demonstrates the Without using PEFS, the candidate draws a

ability to draw a simplified simplified system flow diagram to include
system flow diagram of the essential equipment and components, and to
system. indicate flow sources and destinations.

Boundaries:

Successfully
Assessment Objectives Criteria for Successful Assessment completed
objective?

Candidate demonstrates the Without further prompting, the candidate

ability to identify the boundaries
of the system.
Note: PEFS can be used to
complete this task.
identifies the boundaries of the system.
System Boundaries:
Start at:
 Sub-Surface Safety Valve and Landing
Nipple
 Xmas Tree and Valves
 Surface Safety Valve
 Bean Box
 Flow line Block Valves

Revision Number: C Page 3 Date: November 2014

 SPDC Production Plan Name: Wellhead and Manifold (Protection)
Discipline: Production Operations Plan Number: SPDC OPS-PO01

End at:
 Manifold Flow line Inlet Valve
 Manifold Bean Box
 Inlet Header Block Valves
 Inlet Header Shutdown Valves
 Manifold Header Relief Valve (RV)

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):

Successfully
Assessment Objectives Criteria for Successful Assessment completed
objective?

Candidate demonstrates the Without further prompting, the candidate

ability to identify and describe identifies the Personal Protective Equipment
the Personal Protective (PPE) associated with the system and the
Equipment (PPE) that is activity.
appropriate for the system and
the activity.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):
• Overalls
• Safety helmet
• Gloves
• Hearing Protection
• Safety shoes.

Major Hazards:

Successfully
Assessment Objectives Criteria for Successful Assessment completed
objective?

Candidate demonstrates the Without further prompting, the candidate

ability to identify and describe identifies the following major hazards associated
the major hazards in the system. with the system.

Revision Number: C Page 4 Date: November 2014

 SPDC Production Plan Name: Wellhead and Manifold (Protection)
Discipline: Production Operations Plan Number: SPDC OPS-PO01

Note: Space is provided to allow

the assessor to include additional
hazards (subject to verification
protocol). PEFS or other
documents can be used to
complete this task.
Major Hazards:
• Hydrocarbons asphyxiation
• High temperature/pressure hazards
• Chemicals hazards
• Drowning (if applicable)

Tracing and Describing Process Flows, Essential Components and Controls:

Components Locate Trace Flows Describe

Function

Sub-Surface Safety Valve Landing Nipple Yes No Yes No Yes No

Xmas Tree and Valves Yes No Yes No Yes No
Flow line Block Valves Yes No Yes No Yes No
Bean Box Yes No Yes No Yes No
Manifold Header Block Valves Yes No Yes No Yes No
Manifold Header Block Valve Bypass Yes No Yes No Yes No
valve
Inlet Manifold Shutdown Valves

Controls Locate Describe Function

Surface Controlled Sub-Surface Safety Yes No Yes No

Valve
Surface Safety Valve Yes No Yes No
Pressure Transmitters Yes No Yes No
Temperature Transmitters Yes No Yes No
Choke Bean Yes No Yes No
Pressure Valves Yes No Yes No
Revision Number: C Page 5 Date: November 2014
 SPDC Production Plan Name: Wellhead and Manifold (Protection)
Discipline: Production Operations Plan Number: SPDC OPS-PO01

Pressure Switches Yes No Yes No

Petrotec Instrument Panel Yes No Yes No
Control-O-Matic Unit Yes No Yes No
Shutdown Valves Yes No Yes No
Fusible Plugs Yes No Yes No
Relief Valves Yes No Yes No

Did not meet Assess

Comments:

Candidate Signature: Date:

Assessor Signature: Date:

Internal Verifier Signature: Date:

Revision Number: C Page 6 Date: November 2014

 SPDC Production Plan Name: Wellhead and Manifold (Protection)
Discipline: Production Operations Plan Number: SPDC OPS-PO01

Prepare and Start-up – System/ Equipment

Prepare and Start up System / Equipment

Assessment Fidelity Level High Medium Low

Assessor checks the appropriate box.

All procedural steps are to be completed, without assistance, in accordance with the current procedures
and the following performance standards:

Successfully
Assessment Objectives Criteria for Successful Assessment completed
objective?

Candidate demonstrates the Using the operating procedures, the candidate

ability to conduct pre-start identifies the pre-requisite steps required for the
checks for the start-up (Open up start-up of the system.
and flow) of the Well.
The candidate will be able to: Preconditions and Well Status:

1) Acquire Operational Ensure that the candidate confirms:

Instructions.
2) Arrange personal work load
and the work load of others
where appropriate
3) Conduct a briefing to
relevant Personnel
4) Identify difficulties with
permits to work and take
appropriate actions
5) Ensure that information
supplied and recorded is
accurate, complete and
understandable.
6) Maintain workplace ensuring
it is clean and risk free.
7) Work safely in line with
operational instructions and
guidelines.
 If the well was worked over and is to be
commissioned, ensure all involved parties are
responsible for obtaining the necessary
authorised permits/procedure to commission
the well in accordance with relevant SPDC
procedure (IOG/171); Well Drilling, Well
Services and Well Service Coordination.
 All interface systems listed below are operational:
•
 No work permits are in force
 Leak / Pressure test
 All instrument isolating, sample points, drain
and vent valves.
 The Control-O-Matic Unit/Petrotec
 If the Well has been closed-in for more than one
day the line must be walked (this surveillance
activity is carried out by SPDC contractor from
the community where the well is located) prior
to the open up to ensure that there is no cut or
missing section
 System blow down valves
 Toolbox talks

Revision Number: C Page 7 Date: November 2014

 SPDC Production
Discipline: Production Operations
Candidate demonstrates the
ability to follow the operating
procedures and perform the start- appropriate settings for the start-up of the system.
up of the well.
The candidate will be able to:
1) Receive necessary System
Specifications through
appropriate work processes
and methods.
2) Ensure stable State
Conditions by appropriate
System throughput.
3) Correctly recognise System
faults and undertake
necessary actions.
4) Correctly identify critical
Situations and undertake
necessary actions.
5) Ensure that all data and
information recorded and is
correct complete and
understandable.
6) Work safely in adherence
with operational guidelines
and instructions.
Revision Number: C
Plan Name: Wellhead and Manifold (Protection)
Plan Number: SPDC OPS-PO01
 Establishing Communications.
Ensure that the candidate confirms:
 All required conditions are met.
 Ensures the Separator into which the well will
be opened is Pressurised/ Depressurised to
High Static Pressure if on the lower static and
vice versa in accordance with IOG/128/ 127
 Ensures that the well is lined up to the
appropriate Header by checking the entire
ligament Valves of the Inlet Manifold.
Using the operating procedures, (IOG/149) the
candidate identifies the required steps and
Start-up Procedure:
Ensures that the candidate performs the
following:
 Well open up procedure
 Communications to be established between
control room/flow station/well head.
 Open the well to the correct header LP/HP.
Oil Well Open Up Procedure: (IOG/149)
Ensure that the candidate performs the following:
 Bean Installation in accordance with the
relevant SPDC Work Practice (IOG/122)
 Locates the well flow line at the inlet
manifold, and with the relevant SPDC Work
Practice (IOG/129) Inspect/„Change a Bean at
the Inlet Manifold.‟
 Pressurises/depressurises the Test Separator
• HP Static Pressure (IOG/128)
• LP Static Pressure (IOG/127)
 Ensures that the Xmas Tree and flow line
valves at the wellhead
• SCSSSV
Page 8 Date: November 2014
 SPDC Production Plan Name: Wellhead and Manifold (Protection)
Discipline: Production Operations Plan Number: SPDC OPS-PO01

• Master Valve
• Survey Valve
• Manual Wing Valve
• SSV
Flow line Valve
 SPDC Work Practice (IOG/163) „Opening a
SCSSSV using a Hydraulic Hand Pump‟.
 Checks and record the, Closed-in Tubing Head
Pressure (CITHP), Conductor Pressure (CP),
Casing Head Pressure (CHP) and Flow line
Pressure (FLP).
 Commissions the Control-O-Matic Unit in
accordance with the relevant SPDC Work
Practice (IOG/158) Commissioning a
Control-O-Matic Unit at the wellhead.

Associated Questions: 

Why must the flow line be traced prior to the well open up if the well has been closed
in for more than a day?
 Answer: If the Well has been closed-in for more than one day the line must be
walked (this surveillance activity is carried out by SPDC contractor from the
community where the well is located) prior to the open up to ensure that there is no
cut or missing section


What is the importance of checking the ligament valves at the inlet header?
Answer: Checking the ligament valves at the inlet header is important in the sense
that if the inlet valve is closed, there will be a back pressure build up in the line and
this will make the flow line safety valve to trip if the pressure gets beyond the higher
limit set point of the safety valve.
Furthermore, if the both HP and the LP ligament valves are in open position, the HP will tend to
equalize with the LP. If this happens, bearing in mind that instrument pressure is gotten from the HP
gas which has now equalized with the LP, The Master Shut Down Valves will trip and brings down
the station because the available instrument air pressure can no longer sustain the MSDV (minimum of
70psi).

Revision Number: C Page 9 Date: November 2014

 SPDC Production Plan Name: Wellhead and Manifold (Protection)
Discipline: Production Operations Plan Number: SPDC OPS-PO01

Why is it necessary to line up the separator before opening the well at the wellhead?
Answer: To ensure that the well will be flowing into the right header, static and
separator. To ensure that the well is flowing
What is the open-up Choke Bean used for?
Answer: Choke bean is a flow control. Open-up Choke Bean is used to kick flow the
well
How is the pressure in the Separator controlled?
Answer: The pressure in the separator is controlled by the station back pressure
valve/controller. To control the separator on LP static, you open the vessel to LP gas
line and to HP gas line if you want to control on HP static.
Is it possible to convert HP separator as a bulk LP separator?
Answer: Yes. It is possible. Most stations have that flexibility for operational
convenience.
Why do we install a flow choke bean at the wellhead bean box?
Answer: We install flow choke bean at the wellhead bean box for some reasons such
as :
a) Flow control
b) Sand control
c) Water production control
d) It is also pertinent to state here that the pressures of the well actually
determine where the bean will be installed.
Before commencement of the well open up, what must the operator ensure?
Answer: Ensure that there are no abnormalities, missing or severely corroded section of the
flowline
Ensure if bean was installed at the wellhead bean box. Change to the correct bean size if
necessary in accordance with IOG/129 Inspect/change a bean at the wellhead.
Ensure that the surface safety valve, surface controlled subsurface safety valve and the survey valve
are closed.
Ensure that the valves at the wellhead are closed as follows:

• Flowline valve

• Surface safety valve

• Wing valve

Revision Number: C Page 10 Date: November 2014

 SPDC Production Plan Name: Wellhead and Manifold (Protection)
Discipline: Production Operations Plan Number: SPDC OPS-PO01

• Master valve

• Surface controlled subsurface safety valve

If after open up of well, the operator puts the SCSSSV and SSV on Auto and they
failed to remain on Auto; what must the operator do to ensure the valves stay on
Auto?
Answer: You log on the flowline pressure , surface safety valve make, size and
type. Allow the well to flow and stabilise for about 10 minutes before you set it back
on Auto and watch out for open position indicator on the body of the valve

Met Asses

Comments:

Candidate Signature: Date:

Assessor Signature: Date:

Internal Verifier Signature: Date:

Revision Number: C Page 11 Date: November 2014

 SPDC Production Plan Name: Wellhead and Manifold (Protection)
Discipline: Production Operations Plan Number: SPDC OPS-PO01

Revision Number: C Page 12 Date: November 2014

 SPDC Production
Discipline: Production Operations
Candidate demonstrates the
ability to conduct pre-start
checks for the opening up of gas
well to a gas plant.
The candidate will be able to:
1) Receive necessary System
Specifications through
appropriate work processes
and methods.
2) Ensure stable State
Conditions by appropriate
System throughput.
3) Correctly recognise System
faults and undertake
necessary actions.
4) Correctly identify critical
Situations and undertake
necessary actions.
5) Ensure that all data and
information recorded and is
correct complete and
understandable.
6) Work safely in adherence
with operational guidelines
and instructions.
Revision Number: C
Plan Name: Wellhead and Manifold (Protection)
Plan Number: SPDC OPS-PO01
Using the operating procedures, (IOG/113) the
candidate identifies the required steps and
appropriate settings for the opening up of gas
well to a gas plant.
Preconditions for Open-up:
Ensure the candidate confirms:
 No Permits
 Toolbox talks
 All spades and spectacle blinds
 leak/pressure test
 Instrument isolation valves
 All sample point
 All system drains and vent block valves
 Safety Shutdown System (SSDS), and
Emergency Support System (ESS) control and
shutdown facilities are operational
 Communications.
 If well has been closed-in for more than one
day, the line must be walked prior to open-up
to ensure that there is no cut or missing
sections
Opening-up Procedure:
Ensure the candidate confirms the following:
 Actuator at the well head
 Pressure Tapping Needle valves on Xmas Tree
 Ensures that the Xmas Tree and Flowline
valves at the wellhead are correct position.
 Record the Closed-In Tubing Head Pressure
(CITHP).
 Using SPDC Work Practice (IOG/163)
„Opening a Surface Controlled Sub Surface
Safety Valve (SCSSSV) Using a Hydraulic
Hand Pump‟.
 Surface Safety Valve (SSV) on Auto mode
 Switches the Pressure Indicator Controller
(PIC) on the Gas Sales Line to Automatic
mode. Adjusts the set point to the required
pressure.
Page 13 Date: November 2014
 SPDC Production Plan Name: Wellhead and Manifold (Protection)
Discipline: Production Operations Plan Number: SPDC OPS-PO01

Associated Questions: 

When opening a gas well, what precautions should the operator take?
Answer: One of the precautions to be taken is that the line must be walked prior to open up
to ensure that there is no cut or missing sections

What should be the position of the Xmas tree valves and flowline valve prior to
open-up?
Answer: They should be closed
•

Which valve must be opened first and which valve must be opened last and why?
Answer: The valve to be opened first is the upper master valve and the one to be
opened last is the flow line valve.

At what point on the Xmas tree is the Closed-in Tubing Head Pressure (CITHP)
taken?
Answer: The CITHP is taken at the survey cap

Why is it advisable to open the Free Liquid Knockout (FLKO) Vessel Inlet
Shutdown Valve before opening the Test or Production Header Block Valve?
Answer: Free liquid knock out vessel is the first vessel that the gas goes into as it
comes to the plant through either the production header or the test header. If the
FLKO vessel inlet shutdown valve is not opened before opening the Test or
Production Header Block Valve, there will be a back pressure build up along the line
to the wellhead and the safety valves at the wellhead will sense the pressure build up
and trip the well on high flowline pressure.

Revision Number: C Page 14 Date: November 2014

 SPDC Production Plan Name: Wellhead and Manifold (Protection)
Discipline: Production Operations Plan Number: SPDC OPS-PO01

Comments:

Candidate Signature: Date:

Assessor Signature: Date:

Internal Verifier Signature: Date:

Revision Number: C Page 15 Date: November 2014

 SPDC Production Plan Name: Wellhead and Manifold (Protection)
Discipline: Production Operations Plan Number: SPDC OPS-PO01

Monitor/ Optimise / Troubleshooting - System / Equipment

Normal Operation and Troubleshooting

Assessment Fidelity Level High Medium Low

Assessor checks the appropriate box.

All procedural steps are to be completed, without assistance, in accordance with the current procedures
and the following performance standards:

Successfully
Assessment Objectives Criteria for Successful Assessment completed
objective?

Candidate demonstrates the Using the operating procedures, the candidate

ability to follow the operating identifies the required steps and appropriate
procedures and perform the settings for well open-up of the system.
normal operation of the Well
Open-up.
Ensure the candidate performs the routine checks
The Candidate will be able to:
1) Receive necessary System to monitor the well open-up and flowing.
Specifications through  FTHP, FLP, MLP and CHP.
appropriate work process  Ensures that the well is flowing to the
methods. appropriate header.
2) Ensure stable state  Leaks.
conditions by appropriate
system throughput.  Control-O-Matic Unit pump
3) Correctly recognise system  Ensures that the SCSSSV and SSV are on
faults and undertake Auto
necessary action.  With relevant SPDC procedure (IOG/164)
4) Correctly identify critical „Taking an Oil Sample for Sand and Water
situations and undertake Determination at the Flowstation‟.
necessary actions.
5) Ensure that all data and
information recorded is
correct, complete and
understandable.
6) Work safely in adherence
with operational guidelines
and instructions.

Candidate demonstrates the Using the operating procedures, the candidate

ability to follow the operating identifies the required steps and checks to be
procedures and perform the performed when troubleshooting the systems.
normal operational checks of the
Revision Number: C Page 16 Date: November 2014
 SPDC Production Plan Name: Wellhead and Manifold (Protection)
Discipline: Production Operations Plan Number: SPDC OPS-PO01

well and troubleshoot the System Monitoring:

problems of flow.
The Candidate will be able to:
1) Sustain the system in
necessary steady state
2) Correctly identify and
resolve faults and issues.
3) Accurately obtain samples
and carry out relevant tests
and undertake comparative
testing
4) Promptly report issues
outside candidate‟s
responsibility.
5) Ensure that all data and
information recorded is
correct, complete and
understandable.
6) Maintain workplace ensuring it is
clean and risk free.
Well not flowing as expected
Wellhead & Flow line:
 Ensures SCSSSV is fully open
 Ensures all required valves on the wellhead are
open fully and CITHP and FTHP matches with
old records.
 Ensure surveillance team checked the Flowline
for leaks
Manifold:
 Ensures the ligament valve on the manifold for
the particular well is fully open
 Confirms the pressure at the manifold is
correct
Vessel
 Ensures the Separator is properly lined up for
the well.
 Ensures that Level and Pressure Controllers
and Control valves of the separators are OK.
 Confirms by carrying out a short well test.

Associated Questions: 

What are the parameters the operator can check to confirm that the well is flowing?
Answer: The pressures at the wellhead and at the flowstation. These pressures
include the FTHP, FLP and MLP.
What are the parameters that the operator should check if the well is not flowing?
Answer: Check if the SCSSSV and the SSV are open. Open the bean box and check
if the bean is plugged or blocked by any material. Confirm that your master and wing
valves are really open. Confirm that non return valve was not installed in the well and
not removed before the open up instruction.
When the hydraulic pump of the wellhead Control-O-Matic Unit strokes
intermittently, what does this signify?
Answer: It signifies that there is a pressure loss or leakage within the system and to
Revision Number: C Page 17 Date: November 2014
 SPDC Production Plan Name: Wellhead and Manifold (Protection)
Discipline: Production Operations Plan Number: SPDC OPS-PO01

compensate for the pressure loss, the hydraulic pump strokes intermittently.
What should the operator do if there is significant increase in FTHP and a decrease in Yes No
FLP and MLP pressures?
Answer: What the operator should do in this condition is to check the bean and bean
box for any blockage on the bean orifice that is restricting flow which is making the
FTHP to increase and FLP and MLP to decrease.

What are the essential parameters the operator can check of a well on gas lift? Yes No
Answer: Gas lift pressure, ensure that the isolation valve or the casing valve is open.

Why is it important to check the flow choke bean when there is a drop in flow line
pressure and production rate of a flowing well?
Answer: It could be that there is a restriction on the flow choke bean which is
restricting flow which by implication, reduces the production rate and flow line
pressures.
Why it is important to check the manifold pressure and flowline temperature?
Answer: Matching the manifold pressure with the manifold pressure when the well is
producing gives you an idea if the well is flowing or not. Flow line temperature is
also important. A warm/hot flow line temperature (not loosing sight of the ambient
temperature) is an indication that the well is producing.
Why must the hydraulic pressure in the control line to the SCSSSV be maintained
with the Control-O-Matic unit hydraulic pump?
Answer: The reason for maintaining the hydraulic pressure in the control line to the
SCSSSV is to keep the valve in open position. It is used to counter the formation
pressure or the spring tension of the valve which will close the valve if not countered.
The wellhead hydraulic pump strokes occasionally to maintain the control line
pressure to keep the SCSSSV open; when the strokes are intermittent this indicates
what?
Answer: It indicates that there is a pressure loss or leakage in the system.

Comments:

Revision Number: C Page 18 Date: November 2014

 SPDC Production Plan Name: Wellhead and Manifold (Protection)
Discipline: Production Operations Plan Number: SPDC OPS-PO01

Candidate Signature: Date:

Assessor Signature: Date:

Internal Verifier Signature: Date:

Revision Number: C Page 19 Date: November 2014

 SPDC Production Plan Name: Wellhead and Manifold (Protection)
Discipline: Production Operations Plan Number: SPDC OPS-PO01

Prepare / Shutdown – System / Equipment – Normal, Process and Emergency Shutdown

Prepare and Shutdown System / Equipment

Assessment Fidelity Level High Medium Low

Assessor checks the appropriate box.

All procedural steps are to be completed, without assistance, in accordance with the current procedures
and the following performance standards:

Successfully
Assessment O Criteria for Successful Assessment completed
objective?

Candidate demonstrates the Using the operating procedures, the candidate

ability to conduct pre-start identifies the pre-requisite steps required for the
checks for the planned shutdown planned shutdown of the system.
of the Well.
The Candidate will be able to: Preconditions:
1) Acquire operational
Ensure that the candidate confirms:
Instructions
2) Correctly assess shutdown  All associated equipment in flowstation is in
time and make necessary operation.
arrangements  Check whether the well is a big producer of oil
3) Brief the necessary personnel and gas that can cause process upset.
on shutdown procedures.
 Ensure that the Test separator is available for
4) Correctly identify actual and
the preparation of the well.
possible risks and take
precaution against them.  Ensure that the Test separator header is
5) Ensure that all data and available to handle the blowdown of the
information recorded is flowline through the manual blowdown
correct, complete and valves to the flare header (Gas plant)
understandable.
6) Work safely in adherence
with operational guidelines
and instructions.

Candidate demonstrates the Using the operating procedures, (IOG/) the

ability to follow the operating candidate identifies the required steps and
procedures and perform the appropriate settings for the planned shutdown of
planned shutdown of the Well. the system.
The Candidate will be able to:
1) Correctly input and set
Normal Shutdown Procedure:
shutdown settings, process

Revision Number: C Page 20 Date: November 2014

 SPDC Production
Discipline: Production Operations
variables and services.
2) Safely shutdown system.
3) Take protective measures
against shutdown risks.
4) Check shutdown and correct
faults and problems as
appropriate.
5) Isolate plant and utilities
from operating sources.
6) Work safely in adherence
with operational guidelines.
Revision Number: C
Plan Name: Wellhead and Manifold (Protection)
Plan Number: SPDC OPS-PO01
Ensure that the candidate performs the following:
 Information.
 Presuming the upsets.
 Correct operation of SCSSSV and SSV valves
 Closes the well Xmas tree valve
 Ensures that there is no well flowing into the
Test header
 Switches the well to the Test header.
SSDS (Safety shutdown systems):
Ensures that the candidate can explain the
following abnormal conditions and activation
devices:
 Process upsets.
 OSD 1 shutdown at the flowstation
 ESD shutdown at the flowstation
Process Shutdown (PSD) Trips:
Ensure that the candidate can explain the
following activation devices:
 Flowline low pressure.
 Flowline high pressure
 Lack of hydraulic oil in the hydraulic pump
reservoir
 High level in separators and surge vessel
OSD 1:
Ensure that the candidate knows of the following
activation devices:
 OSD 1 manual pushbuttons on the Control-O-
Matic unit/Petrotec panel
 OSD caused by other upsets at the wellhead.
 Total loss of power supply at the flowstation
 Instrument air/ gas failure at the flowstation
 Failure of the SSDS (watchdog).
ESD:
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 SPDC Production Plan Name: Wellhead and Manifold (Protection)
Discipline: Production Operations Plan Number: SPDC OPS-PO01

Ensure that the candidate knows of the following

activation devices:
 Manual pushbuttons located at the boat
landing to the well cluster (swamp wellhead)
 Manual pushbuttons located at the Control-O-
Matic unit/Petrotec panel
 Fusible plugs located on the Control-O-Matic
unit/Petrotec panel.

Associated Questions: 

What are the two types of planned shutdowns?

Answer: Long and short shutdowns
What happens to the flowlines during a normal short duration shutdown and
prolonged shutdown?
Answer: You ensure that the Master, wing, survey, flow line valves, SCSSSV, SSV
and the flowstation manifold inlet valve are closed
What must the operator do to avoid wellhead valves leaking into the flowline during
prolonged duration shutdown of the well?
Answer: Apart from ensuring that all the necessary valves are closed, you can carry
out positive isolation by installing spectacular blinds on the lines.
What must the operator do to avoid inlet manifold header shutdown valve leaking
into the separator during a prolonged duration shutdown of the header?
Answer: You close the inlet isolation valve to the separator
What happens if the wellhead valves are passing after shutdown?
Answer: Your lines will be pressurised and if the line are old and weak, you may
have a rupture.
What happens if the wellhead shutdown valves would not close on Manual or on
Auto?
Answer: You might loose control of the well. Your next line of action will be to trip
the SCSSSV.
What is the difference between PSD and ESD?

Revision Number: C Page 22 Date: November 2014

 SPDC Production Plan Name: Wellhead and Manifold (Protection)
Discipline: Production Operations Plan Number: SPDC OPS-PO01

Answer: PSD is a controlled shutdown while ESD is not

What initiates PSD and ESD?
Answer: ESD (Emergency Shut Down) is initiated by sever process offset or any
condition that will critically affect the safe operation or integrity of the plant.
PSD (Planned Shut Down) is being initiated by plans to carry out maintenance of the
plant etc.
Where are manual pushbuttons for activation of an ESD shutdown located?
Answer: At the bottom right hand side of the Fail Safe Panel or the Robertshaw
panel.

Comments:

Candidate Signature: Date:

Assessor Signature: Date:

Internal Verifier Signature: Date:

Revision Number: C Page 23 Date: November 2014

 SPDC Production Plan Name: Wellhead and Manifold (Protection)
Discipline: Production Operations Plan Number: SPDC OPS-PO01

Prepare System/ Equipment for maintenance

Prepare System / Equipment for Maintenance

Assessment Fidelity Level High Medium Low

Assessor checks the appropriate box.

All procedural steps are to be completed, without assistance, in accordance with the current procedures
and the following performance standards:

Successfully
Assessment Objectives Criteria for Successful Assessment completed
objective?

Candidate demonstrates the Using the operating procedures, the candidate

ability to conduct preparation of
Wellhead, Flowline and
Manifold Equipment for
maintenance
The Candidate will be able to:
1) Obtain Instructions and
organise work accordingly
2) Ensure that the Permit to
work System is operated
effectively.
3) Brief necessary personnel
and ensure work is allocated.
4) Accurately prepare plant and
equipment
5) Sustain the workplace to be
clean and risk free.
6) Ensure that data and
information recorded and is
correct, complete and
understandable.
Revision Number: C
identifies the pre-requisite steps required for
preparing the Wellhead, Flowline and Manifold
Equipment for maintenance.
Flowline Maintenance:
Pre-start check and conditions:
Ensure that the candidate confirms the following:
 No well is on the Test Header.
 Reduces the liquid level of the test separator
 Draining
 Depressurises the Flowline through the Test
separator to the drain pit/saver pit.
 Flushes the flowline in accordance with the
relevant SPDC procedure (IOG/145)
“Flowline Flushing” (wellhead to flowstation)
 Depressurises to the flare.
 Opens atmospheric vent valves on the
depressurised header and confirm the system
is fully depressurised in accordance with the
relevant SPDC procedure (IOG/123)
“Depressurising a Gas Flowline and Inlet
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 SPDC Production Plan Name: Wellhead and Manifold (Protection)
Discipline: Production Operations Plan Number: SPDC OPS-PO01

7) Work safely in adherence to Manifold”.

operational guidelines.

Well Handover for maintenance:

 Ensures well in ready in all respects to be
handed over for maintenance.
 Flowline is disconnected and blind flanged
Reinstatement:
 Ensures wellhead is complete in all respects
and follows the well take over procedure
 Ensures the Flowline is hooked up and no
spades in position.
 Ensures all relevant steps followed in
reinstatement of the well or Flowline.

Associated Questions:

What is required to hand over the flowline for flushing?

Answer: Close well, depressurise and spade off.
Is it required to drain the Test separator prior to switching the well to be flushed?
Answer: Yes
What is required to hand over well for maintenance?
Answer: Depressurisation and positive isolation
What types of maintenance activities take place in a well or wellhead?
Answer: Frontline wellhead maintenance jobs, Wireline services, well work overs etc
What is a well handover or takeover procedure?
Answer: A well handover or takeover procedure is the procedure taken by the
operator or operations dept. in handing over a well for maintenance after carrying out
all the necessary steps in ensuring that the well is safe to work on. Some of these
steps include closing, depressurisation and isolation.
What is to be checked before opening a well to station?
Revision Number: C Page 25 Date: November 2014
 SPDC Production Plan Name: Wellhead and Manifold (Protection)
Discipline: Production Operations Plan Number: SPDC OPS-PO01

Answer: Check for points of isolation to de-isolate, pressurise, re-commission.

Evidence Source (job c

Comments:

Candidate Signature: Date:

Assessor Signature: Date:

Internal Verifier Signature: Date:

THE END

Revision Number: C Page 26 Date: November 2014