AOGCC amends blowout prevention regs

Changes in the Alaska Oil and Gas Conservation Commission’s blowout-prevention equipment testing requirements become effective July 12.

The commission said the amendment to its regulations changes the type of test performed after installation of casing rams in the blowout-preventer stack. A function-pressure test of the casing rams is now required before running casing or liner. The commission had previously required only a test of the ram bonnets.

The regulations amended are 20 AAC 25.035(e)(10) and 20 AAC 25.285(f)(5). Regulations are available on the commission’s Web site at www.aogcc.alaska.gov.

The commission is also proposing changes in safety valve system requirements.

The regulations to be changed are in 20 AAC 25.265. The commission said the proposed changes reflect technology advances in safety system design and operation as well as broadening the scope of applicability. Proposed changes are available on the commission’s Web site. The commission is accepting written comments through Aug. 20, and oral or written comments at a hearing scheduled for Aug. 28.

—Petroleum News