Mitigating Downhole Hazards and Improving Operational Performance using Advanced Human Performance Techniques and High-Fidelity Simulations

Abstract

In August 2020 the Operator deployed a fully immersive On The Rig (OTR) Simulator for the execution of a Drill the Well On Simulator (DWOS) project on the semi-submersible Maersk Developer to prepare the crew to drill the 1st Petronas Deepwater exploration well (name redacted to Well X) offshore Suriname. The offset well data showed numerous downhole troubled time events, such as well control and stuck pipe in addition to other risks that required to be actively managed. With many of the crew being new to the rig, competence was identified as a key risk. The Operator engaged a DWOS program to ensure the rig crew competence was accelerated and project risks were understood and mitigated. This was achieved through realistic simulations, well/rig specific training and advanced human factors training, specifically designed to ensure the successful delivery of the well.