ICTQual Level 1 Award in Drilling Well Control

In today’s fast-paced energy and petroleum industry, well control is not just a technical necessity—it’s a critical safety imperative. The ICTQual Level 1 Award in Drilling Well Control offers an essential foundation for individuals looking to start a career in drilling operations or enhance their understanding of safety and control systems in the oil and gas sector.

The ICTQual Level 1 Award in Drilling Well Control is designed for individuals with little or no previous experience in drilling operations. This award aims to provide learners with the basic understanding of well control principles and practices that are crucial in preventing blowouts, managing pressure, and ensuring the safe execution of drilling activities.

The ICTQual Level 1 Award in Drilling Well Control is entry-level qualification designed to equip individuals with a foundational understanding of well control principles in the oil and gas industry. This award serves as a vital starting point for those new to drilling operations or looking to enhance their awareness of safety procedures, pressure control, and risk prevention in well environments.

By focusing on essential knowledge and practical awareness, the qualification prepares learners to contribute effectively and safely within drilling teams—both onshore and offshore. It is ideal for students, support personnel, and new entrants aiming to build a career in the energy sector with a strong emphasis on operational safety and control.

ICTQual is internationally recognized for developing industry-relevant, competence-based certifications that meet both local and global standards. With a commitment to quality, safety, and employability, ICTQual ensures that learners are well-prepared for real-world challenges in the oil and gas sector.

Whether you’re starting your journey in the energy sector or looking to add a valuable skill to your CV, the ICTQual Level 1 Award in Drilling Well Control is your gateway to safer and smarter drilling operations.

Course overview

Level 1 Award in Drilling Well Control

To enrol in the ICTQual Level 1 Award in Drilling Well Control, learners must meet the following requirements:

  • Minimum Age: Learners must be at least 16 years of age at the time of enrollment.
  • Educational Background: Completion of basic secondary education (e.g. GCSEs or equivalent) is recommended.
  • Experience: No prior work experience in drilling or well operations is required. However, the course is also suitable for new employees in oil & gas or support roles looking to gain a structured understanding of well control principles.
  • English Language Competency: Learners should possess basic English reading, writing, and comprehension skills to understand training materials and participate in assessments.

This qualification, the ICTQual Level 1 Award in Drilling Well Control, consists of 5 mandatory units.

  1. Introduction to Drilling and Well Control
  2. Causes and Warning Signs of Well Kicks
  3. Basic Pressure Concepts
  4. Well Control Equipment (WCE) Overview
  5. Preventive Measures and Basic Response

Here are the learning outcomes for each study unit:

1. Introduction to Drilling and Well Control

By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:

  • Describe the basic purpose and process of drilling in oil and gas exploration.
  • Explain the concept and importance of well control in drilling operations.
  • Identify key personnel involved in drilling operations and their roles in maintaining well safety.

2. Causes and Warning Signs of Well Kicks

By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:

  • Define what a “kick” is and how it occurs during drilling.
  • List the common causes of well kicks, including formation pressure and operational errors.
  • Recognize early warning signs and indicators of potential kicks in the wellbore.

3. Basic Pressure Concepts

By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:

  • Understand key pressure terms: hydrostatic pressure, formation pressure, and bottom hole pressure.
  • Explain how pressure imbalance can lead to a kick or blowout.
  • Describe the function of drilling mud in maintaining wellbore pressure control.

4. Well Control Equipment (WCE) Overview

By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:

  • Identify the main types of well control equipment, including Blowout Preventers (BOPs), choke manifolds, and kill lines.
  • Describe the basic functions of each equipment component in controlling well pressure.
  • Understand the importance of equipment maintenance, checks, and crew readiness.

5. Preventive Measures and Basic Response


By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:

  • Outline standard preventive measures to avoid well control incidents.
  • Describe basic crew responsibilities and communication during abnormal well conditions.
  • State initial actions and emergency responses in the event of a well kick or blowout.

he ICTQual Level 1 Award in Drilling Well Control serves as a foundational qualification that opens the door to further professional development in the oil and gas industry. Upon successful completion, learners are encouraged to advance their knowledge and skills through higher-level certifications and technical training. Potential progression routes include:

1. Level 2 Certificate in Drilling Operations

  • Builds on the fundamentals covered in Level 1
  • Provides more in-depth technical and operational knowledge related to drilling practices
  • Suitable for those seeking field roles such as Floorhand, Roustabout, or Assistant Driller

2. International Well Control Certifications

  • Recognized globally in the oil & gas sector
  • Focuses on advanced well control techniques, pressure control, and kick management
  • Essential for personnel working in supervisory and critical well control positions

3. Vocational Diplomas in Oil & Gas Operations

  • Advanced vocational training in drilling engineering, well services, or rig operations
  • Offers both technical and safety-focused content
  • Ideal for those pursuing long-term careers in upstream petroleum industries

4. Safety and HSE Certifications

  • IOSH, or other safety-related qualifications complement drilling training
  • Enhances employability in both operational and supervisory roles

By progressing to higher-level qualifications, learners not only expand their technical abilities but also increase their eligibility for international employment, onshore and offshore assignments, and leadership roles in the energy sector.

FAQS

This course is ideal for:

  • Beginners in the oil and gas industry
  • Students studying petroleum, drilling, or related fields
  • Support staff and junior technicians involved in drilling operations
  • Anyone interested in understanding the basics of well control

Graduates can pursue entry-level roles such as Drilling Support Staff, Offshore Rig Assistant, Junior Rig Worker, Well Control Trainee, and Field Operations Assistant. This certification enhances employability in oil and gas companies, offshore drilling projects, and energy service providers, and serves as a stepping stone for higher-level drilling and well control qualifications.

ICTQual Level 1 Award in Drilling Well Control is a 1 day training program. This Training program’s mandatory assessment will be conducted through Approved Training Centres.

ICTQual Level 1 Award in Drilling Well Control is offered in various formats, including online, in-person, or a combination of both. Participants can choose the format that best fits their schedule and learning preferences. But the final decision is made by ATC.

Yes, ICTQual Level 1 Award in Drilling Well Control assessments include quizzes consisting of 100 multiple-choice questions (MCQs). These assessments evaluate participants’ comprehension of course material and ability to apply concepts in practical situations. It is mandatory to pass assessments with a minimum score of 75%.