Who inspects critical wells?
The responsibility for inspection rests primarily with the company drilling the well and the well-site supervisor. Daily and weekly inspections are conducted both by company personnel and by the drilling contractor. ERCB field staff check the company’s ongoing inspection records and conduct independent inspections, as well. At most critical wells, there are at least three ERCB inspections, two prior to and one during drilling in the critical zone. Critical well inspections are quite detailed. If serious problems are found, drilling operations are suspended, if safe to do so, until the deficiencies have been corrected. For more information on ERCB inspections, see EnerFAQs No. 3: Inspections and Enforcement of Energy Developments in Alberta.
