Aker BP – Valhall DP – well barrier material

Objective

The objective of the audit was to review Aker BP’s process for qualifying bismuth as a new well barrier material in the two shallow zones, DPZ1 and DPZ2, in wells at Valhall DP. The audit examined the extent to which the work performed so far to qualify bismuth meets the regulatory requirements and the company’s own requirements for the qualification and use of new technology and new methods.

Result

Two non-conformities were identified, relating to:

• Qualification of a new technology (bismuth)
• Documentation

Two improvement points were identified, relating to:

• Follow-up of suppliers
• Planning, decision-making criteria and risk reduction

What happens next?

We have asked Aker BP to report on how the non-conformities will be addressed and for their assessment of the improvement points observed. The deadline for this is set at 16 November 2020.