Many operators were involved in the design of the UBD curriculum. Minimizing risk during UBD operations is the key driver. UBD is considered to provide economic benefits related to drilling efficiency and the recovery of otherwise inaccessible reserves. The Intro and Fundamental levels have not been developed yet. IADC Well Control Committee members regarding reviewing and approving the UBD curriculum raised a number of issues.
Issues regarding simulation and instructor qualification are still under consideration.
Parallel committees report to WellCAP Review Panel rather than the Well Control committee. The UBD curriculum indicates that an IWCF certificate is acceptable as a prerequisite. After discussion, IAWC was added as an acceptable prerequisite. Rick Stone encouraged participation from Well Control Committee members in further development of the UBD curriculum and evaluating simulator software. Future meetings pertaining to this topic will be held mostly in Houston.