ICTQual Level 2 Certificate in Drilling Well Control

The ICTQual Level 2 Certificate in Drilling Well Control is an essential qualification for individuals aiming to start a career in the oil and gas industry, particularly in offshore and onshore drilling operations. Designed for beginners and entry-level professionals, this certificate provides foundational knowledge and practical skills necessary to work safely and effectively in well control environments.

This programme is tailored to equip learners with a solid understanding of drilling operations, well control principles, and safety protocols. Participants will gain insights into pressure management, basic well control procedures, and the critical safety measures required to prevent incidents during drilling activities. By combining theoretical knowledge with practical exercises, the course ensures learners develop competence in handling real-world drilling scenarios.

The Level 2 certificate is particularly valuable for offshore rig staff, junior drilling technicians, and personnel who support drilling operations. It lays the groundwork for further career progression in the oil and gas sector, enabling learners to advance to higher-level well control qualifications and specialized offshore training.

In addition to technical skills, the ICTQual Level 2 Certificate emphasizes industry best practices, compliance with safety regulations, and awareness of operational risks. This approach ensures that learners are not only technically capable but also prepared to maintain safety standards and operational efficiency in challenging work environments.

Whether you are entering the drilling industry for the first time or seeking a structured introduction to well control, the ICTQual Level 2 Certificate in Drilling Well Control provides a strong foundation. It equips learners with the knowledge, skills, and confidence required to pursue a successful career in drilling operations while prioritizing safety and efficiency at every stage.

Course overview

Level 2 Certificate in Drilling Well Control

To enrol in the ICTQual Level 2 Certificate in Drilling Well Control, learners must meet the following requirements:

  • Minimum Age: Learners must be at least 16years old at the time of enrollment.
  • Educational Background: Completion of basic secondary education (e.g. GCSEs or equivalent) is recommended. A basic understanding of mathematics and science (especially physics) is recommended to grasp pressure-related concepts.
  • Experience: At least 6 months of experience in a drilling-related role within the oil and gas sector (onshore or offshore). Alternatively, completion of the ICTQual Level 1 Award in Drilling Well Control or a comparable introductory qualification may be accepted in place of field experience.
  • 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 2 Certificate in Drilling Well Control, consists of 7 mandatory units.

  1. Introduction to Drilling Operations and Well Control
  2. Well Kicks and Kick Detection
  3. Pressure Fundamentals and Hydraulics
  4. Well Control Equipment (WCE) and Systems
  5. Well Control Methods and Procedures
  6. Drilling Fluids and Well Control
  7. Well Control Safety and Emergency Response

Here are the learning outcomes for each study unit:

1. Introduction to Drilling Operations and Well Control

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

  • Explain the basic drilling process and key terminology used in drilling operations.
  • Describe the importance and objectives of well control in drilling activities.
  • Identify the roles and responsibilities of personnel involved in drilling and well control.

2. Well Kicks and Kick Detection

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

  • Define what a well kick is and explain its causes.
  • Recognize the early signs and indicators of a kick during drilling operations.
  • Analyze past case studies to understand kick scenarios and their outcomes.

3. Pressure Fundamentals and Hydraulics

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

  • Explain key pressure concepts including hydrostatic, formation, and bottom hole pressure.
  • Calculate pressure gradients and understand their impact on well control.
  • Describe the role of drilling fluids in maintaining pressure balance in the wellbore.

4. Well Control Equipment (WCE) and Systems

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

  • Identify and describe the components and functions of key well control equipment such as Blowout Preventers (BOPs), choke manifolds, and kill lines.
  • Explain the operation and maintenance requirements of well control systems.
  • Understand safety checks and readiness procedures for WCE.

5. Well Control Methods and Procedures

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

  • Describe standard well control methods including shut-in procedures, Driller’s method, and Wait and Weight method.
  • Apply well control procedures to maintain pressure balance during drilling.
  • Demonstrate understanding of kick control and pressure management techniques.

6. Drilling Fluids and Well Control

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

  • Explain the types and properties of drilling fluids used in well control.
  • Describe the effects of fluid density, viscosity, and circulation on wellbore pressure.
  • Understand the role of fluid management in preventing kicks and maintaining well stability.

7. Well Control Safety and Emergency Response

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

  • Identify key safety protocols and risk mitigation strategies in well control operations.
  • Explain emergency response procedures in the event of a well kick or blowout.
  • Demonstrate the importance of effective communication and teamwork during well control incidents.

Upon successful completion of the ICTQual Level 2 Certificate in Drilling Well Control, learners are well-positioned to advance their careers and technical expertise within the oil and gas industry. This qualification acts as a stepping stone to more advanced and specialized certifications, opening opportunities for greater responsibility and higher-level roles.

Possible Progression Pathways Include:

  • ICTQual Level 3 Diploma in Drilling Operations
    Deepen your technical knowledge and practical skills in drilling processes, well design, and advanced well control techniques.
  • International Well Control Certifications
    Pursue globally recognized certifications that qualify you for supervisory or specialist well control roles, enhancing employability in international oil and gas operations.
  • Specialized Safety and Environmental Certifications
    Complement your drilling knowledge with certifications such as IOSH, improving your qualifications in Health, Safety, and Environmental (HSE) management.
  • Vocational Diplomas and Technical Degrees
    Further your education through diplomas or degrees in petroleum engineering, drilling technology, or energy sector management, paving the way for technical, engineering, or management careers.
  • On-the-Job Advancement
    Apply your enhanced skills to progress into roles such as Assistant Driller, Driller, Wellsite Supervisor, or Safety Officer, depending on organizational structure nd experience.

This progression framework supports continuous professional development, ensuring that learners remain competitive and capable in a dynamic industry.

FAQS

This course is designed for individuals working in or entering drilling operations roles who need a deeper understanding of well control principles, including rig crew members, assistant drillers, and technical staff.

Graduates can pursue roles such as Junior Drilling Technician, Offshore Rig Assistant, Well Control Trainee, Pressure Control Support Staff, and Drilling Operations Assistant. This certification enhances employability in oil and gas companies, offshore drilling projects, and energy service providers while providing a pathway to higher-level well control qualifications.

ICTQual Level 2 Certificate in Drilling Well Control is a 10 days training program. This Training program’s mandatory assessment will be conducted through Approved Training Centres.

ICTQual Level 2 Certificate 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 2 Certificate 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%.