[Course Guides]
Surface BOP vs Combined Surface and Subsea: Which IWCF Option Do I Need?
When booking an IWCF Drilling Well Control course, candidates may need to choose between Surface BOP and Combined Surface and Subsea certification. The right option depends on the type of equipment, rig or operation you are working with. If you are unsure, it is best to confirm the required option with your employer, operator or training coordinator before booking.
What is Surface BOP?
Surface BOP refers to well control equipment where the Blowout Preventer is located at surface.
This option is generally suited to candidates working with surface well control equipment, such as land rigs, jack-up rigs or other operations where the BOP stack is accessible at surface.
Surface BOP certification may be suitable if your role only requires surface well control knowledge and assessment.
What is Combined Surface and Subsea?
Combined Surface and Subsea covers both surface BOP operations and subsea well control operations.
This option is generally suited to candidates who need certification that includes subsea equipment, systems and procedures, such as those working on offshore floating rigs or operations involving subsea BOPs.
Combined Surface and Subsea is broader than Surface BOP only, because it includes additional subsea well control considerations.
Which option should I choose?
Choose Surface BOP if your role only requires surface well control certification.
Choose Combined Surface and Subsea if your role requires both surface and subsea well control certification.
If you are not sure, do not guess. Your employer or operator should confirm which option is required for your role, rig type and work location.
Does this apply to Level 2, Level 3 and Level 4?
Yes. IWCF Drilling Well Control candidates may undertake either Surface BOP or Combined Surface and Subsea, depending on the level and certification required.
Level 2 includes written theory assessments only.
Level 3 and Level 4 include written theory assessments and a practical simulator assessment. Level 3 candidates are assessed in the Driller role, while Level 4 candidates are assessed in the Supervisor role.
Still unsure?
If you are unsure which IWCF option you need, check with your employer or operator first.
You can also contact us before booking. We can help explain the course options and guide you through the booking process.
