The Alaska Oil and Gas Conservation Commission said Jan. 16 that it has decided that a rule addressing annual pressure management in Prudhoe Bay field development wells is appropriate to protect worker safety. The commission said it will issue a proposed rule for public comment after it has received and reviewed information from Prudhoe Bay field operator BP Exploration (Alaska) Inc., including results of a hazard study of wells at Prudhoe that "exhibit pressure communications or leakage in any tubing or packer or casing" and a proposal for an annular pressure management program for all Prudhoe Bay development wells.
Until the commission issues a rule on annular pressure management, it is requiring BP to comply with annulus pressure management programs in the company's well integrity waiver policy; the company's well startup procedures as described to the commission in its Nov. 14 hearing; a commission letter dated Oct. 29 from Cammy Taylor, commission chair; and any modifications or updates of those approved by the commission.
The November hearing was the result of an Aug. 16 explosion at a Prudhoe Bay well which severely injured a worker. Both BP and the Alaska Oil and Gas Association told the commission at the hearing that no new regulations are needed. BP said that it has made changes in its operating procedures and training following the explosion.
