 Removing
Casing |
Fig. 2. Wellhead
|
The rig is used to remove the
casing and plug the well. The wellhead is removed.
After the casing is cut off, it is removed.
Potential Hazards:
- Being struck by rig equipment (such as casing jacks, power tongs, and casing
elevators).
- Being exposed to other hazards similar to those encountered
during regular drilling or workover operations.
Possible Solutions:
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| Place Cement
Plugs |
Cement plugs are placed in the borehole to prevent migration of fluids between the different formations. This also prevents the migration of gas or fluids to the surface.
Potential Hazards:
- Being struck by pressured lines when pumping cement.
Possible Solutions:
- Instruct personnel to stand clear of pressurized lines.
Additional
Information:
- Bulletin E3, Well Abandonment and Inactive Well Practices for U.S. Exploration and Production Operations.
American Petroleum
Institute (API)
Environmental
Guidance Document,
(2000, June).
Addresses the
environmental
concerns related to
well abandonment
and
inactive well
practices including
protection of
freshwater aquifers
from fluid
migration;
isolation of
hydrocarbon
production and water
injection intervals.
Additional issues
in
the document include
protection of
surface soils and
surface waters,
future and use, and
permanent
documentation of
plugged and
abandoned wellbore locations
and conditions.
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