Snubbing Operations

Industry Recommended Practice

(IRP)
Volume 15

Sanctioned
2003 - 11
This document as well as future revisions and additions are available from:

The Petroleum Industry Training Service (PITS)

1538 – 25 Avenue NE
Calgary, Alberta
T2E 8Y3
Phone: (403) 250-9606
Fax: (403) 291-9408
Website: www.pits.ca
 Table of Contents

15.0 SNUBBING OPERATIONS .....................................................................1

15.1 Acknowledgement..........................................................................................................1

15.2 Disclaimer........................................................................................................................2

15.3 Scope ...............................................................................................................................3

15.4 Introduction.....................................................................................................................4

15.5 Definitions .......................................................................................................................5

15.5.1 Adequate Lighting .........................................................................................................5
15.5.2 Qualified Snubbing Person ............................................................................................5
15.5.3 Supplied Air Breathing Apparatus (SABA).....................................................................5
15.5.4 Self Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) ................................................................6
15.5.5 Under- balanced Drilling.................................................................................................7
15.5.6 Worker............................................................................................................................7

15.6 Common Terms of Reference .......................................................................................7

15.6.1 Bottom Hole Assembly (BHA) ........................................................................................7
15.6.2 Critical Tasks..................................................................................................................7
15.6.3 Complete Shut-Off (CSO) ............................................................................................8
15.6.4 Hydrates ........................................................................................................................8
15.6.5 Existence of Imminent Danger ......................................................................................9
15.6.6 Minimum General Safety Standards ...........................................................................10
15.6.7 Minimum Workwear Requirements .............................................................................12
15.6.8 Responsibilities of Owners and Service Contractors ...................................................13
15.6.9 Time Weighted Average...............................................................................................13
15.6.10 Well Designations .....................................................................................................14

15.7 Safety and Planning .....................................................................................................15

15.7.1 Safety and Operational Meeting..................................................................................15
15.7.2 Contingency Practices ................................................................................................17

15.8 Snubbing Practices ......................................................................................................20

15.8.1 Equipment Specifications............................................................................................20
15.8.2 Minimum Certification Standards .................................................................................20
15.8.3 Hydraulic System Requirements.................................................................................21
15.8.4 Unit Structure Manufacture and Certification .............................................................22

Snubbing Operations Table of Contents • i

 15.8.5 Lifting Equipment ........................................................................................................23
15.8.6 Snubbing Forces and Assembly Design .....................................................................24

15.9 Operational Practices...................................................................................................25

15.9.1 Spacing .......................................................................................................................25
15.9.2 Pressure Testing .........................................................................................................25
15.9.3 Shut In Procedures .....................................................................................................25
15.9.4 Tubing Plug Requirements..........................................................................................26
15.9.5 Locking Blind / Pipe Rams ..........................................................................................26

15.10 Critical Tasks ................................................................................................................27

15.10.1 Cold Weather Operations..........................................................................................27
15.10.2 Snubbing In The Dark (12 hour operations)..............................................................28
15.10.3 Snubbing at Night (24 Hour Operations)...................................................................29
15.10.4 Picking Up and Laying Down Snubbing Units...........................................................30
15.10.5 Stripping Collars / Tool Joints ...................................................................................34
15.10.6 Stripping Over Tubing or Drill Pipe Stumps with Snubbing Unit ...............................35
15.10.7 Wet Tripping ..............................................................................................................37
15.10.8 Explosive Mixtures in the Wellbore ............................................................................38

15.11 Personnel and Qualification Requirements...............................................................39

15.11.1 Crew Requirements ..................................................................................................39
15.11.2 Minimum Snubbing Worker Qualifications ................................................................41

Snubbing Operations Table of Contents • ii

 15.0 Snubbing Operations

15.1 Acknowledgement

The following list of individuals participated in the development

of this Industry Recommended Practice (IRP) through the
DACC sub-committee. A wide cross-section of personnel
working on this brought in a forward-looking perspective of the
challenges, needs, and recommendations of the subject and we
are grateful to each person’s efforts.

Acknowledgement of the following individuals is to provide

recognition for their time and effort, enthusiasm and
participation in any and all of the meetings, seminars, and work
sessions. The corporate entities that allowed these individuals to
take time away from their busy desks to help complete this
project is also acknowledged.

Larry MacPherson, Live Well Service

Kyle Makofka, High Arctic Well Control
Al MacDonald/Al Vallet, Snubco Pressure Control
Tom Follet, Special Services Inc.
Jim Peta, Devon Canada Corp.
Rick Long, Canadian Natural Resources Ltd.
Tom Murphy, Shell Canada
Harold Wells/John Butala, BP Canada Energy Ltd.
John Mayall, Energy and Utilities Board
Rod Loewan, British Columbia Workers’ Compensation Board
Bob Ross, Saskatchewan Labour
Elizabeth Aquin, Petroleum Services Association of Canada

Snubbing Operations •1
 15.2 Disclaimer

This Industry Recommended Practice (IRP) is a set of best

practices and guidelines compiled by knowledgeable and
experienced industry and government personnel, and is intended
to provide the operator with advice regarding "Snubbing
Operations.”

It was developed under the auspices of the Drilling and

Completions Committee (DACC).

Drilling and Completions Committee (DACC) is a joint industry/

government committee established to develop safe, efficient and
environmentally suitable operating practices for the Canadian
Oil & Gas industry in the areas of drilling, completions and
servicing of wells. The primary effort is the development of
IRP's with priority given to:

• Development of new IRPs where non-existent procedures

result in issues because of inconsistent operating practices.

• Review and revision of outdated IRPs particularly where

new technology requires new operating procedures.

• Provide general support to foster development of non-IRP

industry operating practices that have current application to a
limited number of stakeholders.

The recommendations set out in this IRP are meant to allow

flexibility and must be used in conjunction with competent
technical judgment. It remains the responsibility of the user of
the IRP to judge its suitability for a particular application.

Snubbing Operations •2
 If there is any inconsistency or conflict between any of the
recommended practices contained in the IRP, and the applicable
legislative requirement, the legislative requirement shall prevail.

Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy and reliability
of the data and recommendations contained in the IRP. However
DACC, its subcommittees, and individual contributors make no
representation, warranty, or guarantee in connection with the
publication or the contents of any IRP recommendation, and
hereby disclaim liability of responsibility for loss or damage
resulting from the use of this IRP, or for any violation of any
legislative requirements.

This IRP has been sanctioned by the following organizations:

(only those organizations sanction the IRP would be listed)

15.3 Scope

The snubbing committee was organized by the Petroleum

Services Association of Canada, (PSAC) and the snubbing
industry to establish recommended practices for equipment,
procedures and personnel. Included within the IRP and pertinent
to the subject of snubbing are the minimum requirements for
equipment, identification of job types and critical tasks, and the
related equipment and personnel requirements.

The IRP is intended to supplement existing standards and

regulations. An additional intent of the IRP is to establish
guidelines in areas where none existed previously.

Snubbing Operations •3
 15.4 Introduction

Snubbing, as it pertains to this document, is an operation

utilizing specialized equipment and qualified personnel to
control the well pressure and the movement of jointed tubulars
and tools, in or out of the wellbore.

Snubbing applications include, but are not limited to:

• completions
• workovers and recompletions
• fishing and other remedial operations
• stimulation
• underbalanced drilling

Snubbing equipment is designed and required to perform two

functions.

The first function is well control of annular pressure, maintained

by the use of stripping components or working blowout
preventer stacks. The configuration will vary as to the well or
job requirements.

The second function is to move tubulars in and out of a well

controlled by mechanical means with enough advantage to
overcome the force the well pressure exerts. This is done with
inverted slips and the use of hydraulic cylinders, cables or a
combination of both.

Snubbing Operations •4
 15.5 Definitions

15.5.1 Adequate Adequate lighting exists when the site is illuminated sufficiently
Lighting to ensure that the worker is able to perform routine duties safely.
The visibility must be such that the worker will be able to exit
the worksite to a secure area in the event of an emergency.
Flashlight, rig light and vehicle lights can be considered as
emergency back-up lighting.

(Ref: Workers Compensation Board of British Columbia,

Saskatchewan Dept of Labour, Occupational Health and Safety).

15.5.2 Qualified A qualified snubbing person will have certification as required

Snubbing Person by legislation or by this IRP. (Refer to Petroleum Services
Competency Board snubbing personnel competencies.)

15.5.3 Supplied Air All Models of SABA are made up of these major components:
Breathing air supply, facepiece, regulators, and egress cylinder.
Apparatus (SABA)
• Air can be supplied to a crew of several workers from either
a breathing air compressor, or more commonly, from a
cascade system of cylinders joined together. Workers are
connected to this supply through a hose line.

• The facepiece must fit properly from forehead to chin.

Anything interfering with the rubber to skin seal, such as
facial hair or arms of eyeglasses, must be eliminated.

• Air pressure and supply is controlled by regulators at one or

more places in the air supply circuit.

• The Egress Cylinder of air is a mandatory component for

Snubbing Operations •5
 workers using SABA in a toxic environment. The egress
cylinder has a standard 5-minute air supply, which can be
used independently from the remainder of the air supply in
the event the supply hose were to become hung up or
damaged in some way. The egress cylinder allows the
worker the freedom to get out of the hazardous area.

The SABA is a reasonably lightweight unit utilizing virtually an

unlimited air supply. These characteristics make the SABA
convenient for use when breathing apparatus is required for
extended periods by one or more workers. Care should be taken
to monitor the remaining air volumes when using this system.

15.5.4 Self All models of SCBA are made up of these major components:
Contained air supply, facepiece, harness, and regulator.
Breathing
Apparatus (SCBA) Breathable air is supplied to the worker by a cylinder worn on
the back. A standard 30-minute supply is most commonly used
in the oilfield, although some high-pressure 60-minute supplies
are available.

All SCBA’s must have an audible alarm to warn the wearer

when the air supply is down to ¼ of the maximum pressure.
This bell is an audible indicator to the user that 5-minutes or less
of air remains.

Steps should be taken to leave the hazardous area immediately.

The facepiece must fit properly from forehead to chin. Anything

interfering with the rubber to skin seal, such as facial hair or
arms of eyeglasses, must be eliminated. An exhalation valve,
which is housed in the facepiece, allows the user to vent exhaled
air directly out of the facepiece to the atmosphere. When
working in British Columbia refer to B.C. OH&S regulations in

Snubbing Operations •6
 regard to fit testing. In Saskatchewan refer to Saskatchewan
regulation #88. When using SCBA and SABA for training,
maintenance and use a program must be in place.

The harness holds the components of the SCBA together in one

versatile, fully portable unit.

The regulator of the SCBA controls the flow of air to the worker
as it is required in the facepiece. The mainline circuit of the
regulator supplies slight positive pressure to the facepiece at all
times. A by-pass circuit can be opened to allow a continuous
flow of air to the worker in the event that the mainline circuit
malfunctions.

15.5.5 Under- This process entails allowing a well to flow oil, gas and
balanced Drilling formation fluids and cuttings to surface as it is being drilled as
opposed to conventional or overbalanced drilling where one of
the prime considerations is in preventing hydrocarbons from
flowing during the drilling process. (IRP 6.0 Underbalanced
Drilling for Critical Sour Wells, Energy and Utilities Board
Interim Directive ID94-3).

15.5.6 Worker Means a person who is engaged in an occupation.

15.6 Common Terms of Reference

15.6.1 Bottom Hole The bottom hole assembly refers to the tools deployed on the
Assembly (BHA) tubing and these tools are most commonly on the bottom of the
string.

15.6.2 Critical Critical tasks are operations that deviate from normal operating
Tasks procedure. These operations include, but are not limited to: high
pressure snubbing, fishing, washing over, lubricating tools,

Snubbing Operations •7
 stripping-on of equipment, night operations, sour wells over 20
ppm.

15.6.3 Complete Complete shut-off refers to the safety BOP’s supplied by the
Shut-Off (CSO) servicing rig or drilling rig.

15.6.4 Hydrates Gas Hydrates are crystalline compounds formed by the chemical
combination of natural gas and water, under pressure at
temperatures considerably above the freezing point of water. In
the presence of free water, hydrates will form when the
temperature of the gas is below a certain temperature, called the
“hydrate” temperature.

Hydrate formation is often confused with condensation and the

difference between the two must be clearly understood.
Condensation of water from natural gas under pressure occurs
when the temperature is at or below the dew point at that
pressure. Hence, the hydrate temperature would be below and
perhaps the same as, but never above the dew point temperature.
(Dew point is the state of a system characterized by the co-
existence of a vapor phase with an infinitesimal quantity of
liquid phase in equilibrium. Dew point pressure is the fluid
pressure in a system at its dew point.)

While conducting snubbing operations, it becomes necessary to

define, and thereby avoid, conditions that promote the formation
of hydrates. This is essential since hydrates may choke the flow
string, equalize and bleed-off lines, and surface lines. Hydrate
formation in the flow string would result in lower value for
measured wellhead pressures. In a flow rate-measuring device
while performing snubbing work, hydrate formation would
result in a lower flow rate. Excessive hydrate formation may
also completely block flow lines and surface equipment.

Snubbing Operations •8
 15.6.5 Existence Alberta Occupational Health and Safety Act:
of Imminent
Danger 27(1) No worker shall:
a) carry out any work if, on reasonable and probable
grounds, he believes that there exists an imminent
danger to the health or safety of that worker,

b) carry out any work if, on reasonable and probable

grounds, he believes that it will cause to exist an
imminent danger to the health or safety of that
worker or another worker present at the work site,
or

c) operate any tool, appliance or equipment if, on

reasonable and probable grounds, he believes that it
will cause to exist an imminent danger to the health
or safety of that worker or another worker present at
the work site.

27(2) In this section, “imminent danger” means in relation to

any occupation:
a) a danger which is not normal for that occupation,
or
b) a danger under which a person engaged in that
occupation would not normally carry out his
work.

(For further information, refer to the applicable Provincial

Occupational Health and Safety Act or the Canada Labour Board
Code).

Snubbing Operations •9
 15.6.6 Minimum The following minimum standards must be followed.
General Safety
Standards • No smoking within 50 m of potentially flammable vapors.

• Facial hair must not impede the sealing of respiratory

equipment.

• Intoxicating substances and intoxicated persons are not

allowed on location.

• Firearms on location are discouraged, except for flare

ignition, (if required).

• An adequate supply of potable water must be on location,

(for drinking, and emergency washing).

• Good housekeeping practice is required for all of the

location.

• The requirements of Workplace Hazardous Material

Information System and Transportation of Dangerous Goods
must be followed.

• A form of wind direction indicators must be present on

location, e.g. windsocks, flagging tape, etc.

• Multi tasking or simultaneous operations between snubbing

crews and other contractors must be reviewed to identify
potential hazards during the pre-job safety meeting as per
General Safety Standards.

Snubbing Operations • 10
 • A field phone must be present on location and functional.

• A list of emergency contacts must be conspicuously posted

on location.

• A plan must be in place for Emergency Response and

Rescue, and an Unobstructed Exit must be available. A risk
assessment for rescue and evacuation, training for rescuers
and exercise of the procedures must be in place. Procedures
for the transportation of injured workers must be posted
before work commences. (For further information, refer to
the applicable Provincial Regulations.)

• Poles are used as the industry standard for emergency escape

from the snubbing basket. A written risk assessment must
be reviewed in the Pre Job Safety Meeting. These poles
must be installed within safe reaching distance of the basket.
The poles must be kept clean and in good working order.
Clean work wear is essential to descend on the poles in a
safe manner. The landing area is a potential hazard. Care
must be taken that this area and the route away from the
wellhead is clear of equipment and debris.

• A Buddy System must be employed for all hazardous work.

A buddy system is a system where one worker completes the
hazardous work and the other worker observes, i.e. tank
gauging, H2S monitoring.

• H2S and LEL detection apparatus must be on location.

• H2S determinations must be performed while wearing

breathing apparatus.

Snubbing Operations • 11
 • Where there is a likelihood of exposure to H2S, the service
company must ensure supplied air breathing apparatus
(SABA) and self contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) is
available on location.

• A First Aid Kit as specified by the provincial OH&S

authority must be on location.

Fire extinguishers must be charged and on location. One

extinguisher is required on location and the other in the cab of
the unit. Each unit must have a minimum of one class, ABC 9
kg. fire extinguisher.

Note: These points are by no means all of the General Safety Standards
that should be followed. The points listed have special relevance
to snubbing services.

15.6.7 Minimum A written protective clothing policy must be available onsite.

Workwear The following minimum workwear requirements must be
Requirements followed:
• A hard hat (CSA standard CAN/CSA-Z94, 1-92 (R1998)
where a significant risk of lateral impact exists or ANSI
standard Z89.1-1997 if risk of lateral impact does not exist)
must be worn.

• Hearing protection (CSA standard Z94.2-94 (R2000) must

be used.

• Safety steel toed footwear, (CSA Z195 Grade 1 Standard)

must be worn in the work area.

• Safety goggles, (CSA Z94.3), safety glasses, or safety

Snubbing Operations • 12
 prescription glasses with side shields must be worn.

• Gloves must be worn if required, e.g. specialty gloves for

chemicals, leather gloves for handling pipe, etc.

• Untorn, fitted clothing must be worn in the work area.

• Outer or covering apparel must be fire retardant. Natural

fibers or non-fusing fabrics are preferred for inner wear.

All clothing that becomes contaminated with hazardous

chemicals or flammable fluids must be removed and replaced.

15.6.8 The well site owner is responsible for all operations and
Responsibilities of activities on a lease. Safety of on site workers and
Owners and environmental protection is the joint responsibility of owners
Service and service contractors. Owners shall maintain general health
Contractors and safety at the well site by coordinating all activities and
ensuring proper equipment, materials and workers are provided
to accomplish the program and to satisfy all applicable
regulatory requirements.

15.6.9 Time The maximum H2S exposure for any 8-hour period is 10 ppm, as
Weighted Average long as 15 ppm and 20 ppm exposures limits are not exceeded in
that same 8-hour period.

Short Term Exposure is a maximum of 15 ppm H2S for a period

not exceeding 15 minutes.

Up to 4 exposures are allowed per 8-hour period, provided that

each exposure.

The ceiling exposure limit is no worker shall be exposed to 20

Snubbing Operations • 13
 ppm for any time period.

In British Columbia the ceiling exposure limit is 10 ppm. At 10

ppm or higher, breathing apparatus is required.

15.6.10 Well Industry and legislative bodies use “sweet” and “sour”
Designations designations as a reference for administrative purposes. For
technical purposes specific concentrations of Hydrogen Sulphide
or H2S will dictate appropriate equipment requirements to
conduct a task safely, maintain the health and safety of the
worker, while ensuring the integrity of the equipment.

The well designations of this IRP are intended to identify the

different parameters that affect the safety and procedures of the
snubbing operation. Provincial Chemical Hazard Regulations
define the exposure limits for numerous substances. These
documents should be referred to when substances are known to
be present at the well site.

15.6.9.1 Sweet Sweet wells consist of 10 ppm H2S content or less and have no
Well harmful or toxic substances and no corrosive or erosive agents.
A well with a hydrogen sulfide (H2S content of 0.01
moles/kilomole (10 ppm) or less, relative to worker safety, is
designated as Sweet).

15.6.9.2 Caution Caution wells are known to contain from 10 to 20 ppm H2S,
Well have harmful or toxic substances, acids and sand production,
high or continuous flow rates due to deliverability or gas/water
injection, or shut in pressure in excess of 10 mPa based on a gas
gradient.

15.6.9.3 Sour Well Sour wells contain more than 20 ppm H2S content. Sour Gas
hazards relative to worker safety require specific equipment such
as breathing equipment to protect the worker. (IRP 4.2,

Snubbing Operations • 14
 Provincial Occupation Health and Safety Acts, Alberta Chemical
Hazards Regulation Sections 2 & 9, NACE MR 01-75 Latest
Edition, ASME B31.3).

15.6.9.4 High Risk High Risk Wells are known to contain any or all of the above
Well coupled with well conditions which include, but are not limited
to over-pressured formations, hydrates, (please refer to hydrate
term of reference), fishing or well control situations.

15.6.9.5 Critical Critical Sour Wells are defined by appropriate Provincial

Sour Well Regulatory Agencies. They generally include all the elements of
a Sour Well plus an amplified concern for residents in close
proximity at the well site along with environmental issues. In
Alberta refer to EUB ID 97-6 or equivalent in other jurisdictions.

15.7 Safety and Planning

Safety is a prime concern for snubbing operations. Meetings

will be arranged to fully acquaint all involved to snubbing
technology and convey the importance of teamwork and
communication. The planning phase will comprise:

• formalizing the well program by discussion between

snubbing contractor, well site supervisor, and other required
services

• definition of specific safety and operational requirements

• personnel and equipment selection.

• risk assessment and procedure development

15.7.1 Safety and The following topics shall be covered in the safety and

Snubbing Operations • 15
 Operational operational meeting:
Meeting
• scope of work: the program should be discussed and
understood by all participants.

• procedures to be followed and responsibilities of each person

involved in the operation

• procedures for multi tasking or simultaneous operations

between snubbing crews and other contractors as per General
Safety Standards.

• pertinent well information

• rig up/down of equipment

• tubular/bottom hole assembly configuration

• well pressures

• lines of communication

• any other information or significance to the operation

• pertinent Gas/Fluid characteristics

• H2S, CO2

• 02, explosive potential and purging options

• oil, water, frac fluids

Snubbing Operations • 16
 • emergency Procedures, Special Hazards, and Safe Briefing
Areas

• emergency Shut-In: The emergency shut-in procedure is a

critical operation on the rig. Supervisory personnel must
arrange for shut-in drills, which will keep crew members
sharp and will provide an opportunity to improve upon
techniques.

Note: The Contractors daily shift change is considered a change in

operations, in part, a safety and operations meeting is required.
The agenda shall include a complete debriefing of the previous
shift and the noting of new hazards. An additional meeting must
be held when:

• new services arrive on location to perform work

• the scope of work or program changes

• a change in well conditions, i.e. a near miss or a hazard

identification.

15.7.2 In the course of snubbing operations, operational failures can be

Contingency anticipated. Information below lists possible events and general
Practices practices for remedial effort.

Modern snubbing systems utilize known equipment and

technology to further reduce the incidence of equipment failure.
Snubbing systems possess unique abilities to retain well control
in the event of equipment failures due to its ability to move
tubulars in or out of a pressurized well.

Snubbing Operations • 17
 15.7.2.1
Equipment Failure

15.7.2.2 Power The recommended course of action, in case of a power pack

Pack Failure failure is:

• In the pipe heavy condition, position tubing at snubbing

basket level and set slips as required. In the pipe light
condition, set slips as required and engage tension into slips.

• Close and lock appropriate BOP.

• If position of tubing or bottom hole assembly will not allow

closure or complete shut-off, manually close and lock
snubbing pipe rams.

• Install stabbing valve in open position, tighten and close

• Bleed off pressure in above closed BOP.

15.7.2.3 Slip During snubbing operations, slip failure is minimized by regular

Failure inspections. This must be a standard operating practice as the
slip systems are considered part of the well control system.
Power slips are typically operated 4 to 5 times per joint of tubing
jacked, and workover fluid or scale caking of slip die inserts can
occur quite rapidly in some circumstances. This prevents the
slips from getting proper grip on the work string. Stop and clean
slip dies regularly.

In the event of slip failure, the recommended course of action is

as follows:

Snubbing Operations • 18
 • Immediately close an alternative slip bowl.

• Close stripping pipe ram.

• Install stabbing valve in the open position, close stabbing

valve.

• Repair, clean, or replace slip dies and service the slip bowl,
as required.

• Test the load supporting ability of the slip bowl.

• Inspect other slip bowls for slip die conditions and repair as
necessary.

• Resume normal operation.

15.7.2.4 Annular In the event of an annular seal failure:

BOP Hydraulic
Seal Failure • Position tubing connection at working level.

• Install tubing hanger.

• Strip/snub in and land tubing hanger, close lock screws, if

possible.

• Repair as necessary.

• Other options may include, hang-off tubing, use of slip rams

and then repair as necessary.

Snubbing Operations • 19
 15.8 Snubbing Practices

15.8.1 Equipment This section refers to all wellbore pressure containing

Specifications components of the snubbing unit. All BOP’s, bleed-offs and
equalized spools, spacer spools, plug valves and equalize lines.

All equipment designed, installed or built must be done in

accordance with the appropriate API, ASME, CSA, ANSI, or
NACE standards.

All snubbing units must be equipped with approved climbing

devices in accordance with applicable Occupational Health and
Safety regulations. Risk assessment, training and procedure
development are required in the use of egress systems.

15.8.2 Minimum
Certification
Standards

15.8.2.1 Sweet All BOP’s used on sweet wells or caution wells must have a
Wells and Caution current 3-year certification and documentation on the unit and at
Wells the base of operations.

Spools, equalize and bleed-off loops and all other well bore
pressure containing equipment must be hydrostatically tested to
the maximum working pressure of the components every three
years. Documentation must be maintained on the unit and at the
base of operations.

15.8.2.2 Sour and These sections refer to sour and high risk wells. All components
High Risk Wells exposed to the well bore environment must meet N.A.C.E.
standards. BOP and pressure testing certification required

Snubbing Operations • 20
 follows according to 15.8.2.1.

On any well deemed sour or high risk, shear rams with sufficient
accumulator and N2 backup must be considered for installation
in the BOP stack.

15.8.2.3 Critical On critical sour wells, all components exposed to the well bore
Sour Wells environment must meet N.A.C.E. standards. BOP and pressure
testing certification required follows according to 15.8.2.1.

On critical sour wells double valves shall be used on the

snubbing unit, bleed-off and equalized loops.

On any well deemed critical sour or high risk, shear rams with
sufficient accumulator and N2 backup must be considered for
installation in the BOP stack.

15.8.3 Hydraulic This section refers to the hydraulic systems incorporated to

System facilitate pipe-tripping operations.
Requirements
All components of the snubbing unit hydraulic system including
hose, fittings, directional valves, and piping must have a
working pressure rating at least equal to the working pressure
rating of the hydraulic circuit system pressure output. The
hydraulic tank design must include sufficient venting to allow
escape of gas in the event of a BOP wellbore seal failure. The
accumulator and jack circuits must avoid the use of silver solder
fittings.

15.8.3.1 This section refers to the design requirements for the function of
Accumulator the well containment systems on the snubbing unit. The
Requirements for snubbing unit will always be working in conjunction with a BOP
Hydraulically stack that meets jurisdictional requirements.

Snubbing Operations • 21
 Operated Systems
Accumulator design must have a fluid volume that, with the
annular preventer closed, allows two functions of a single gate
preventer, and two functions of the actuators for the bleed-
off/equalized plug valves. After these functions, a minimum
pressure of 8400 kPa must remain on accumulator circuit.

The accumulator must be able to maintain closure of the annular

preventor for a minimum of ten minutes and maintain a
minimum of 8400 kPa with no power to the re-charge pump.

15.8.3.2 Operating The panel, in the snubbing basket, houses all the controls for the
Panel operation of the slips, BOP’s and jack. These are manually
operated. There must be a lock out system for these controls
when they are not being used or the snubbing operator is away
from the panel.

During snubbing operations, complete control of tubulars and

tools must be maintained. Adequate training and procedures, or
interlock systems must be in place to ensure one set of the
appropriate slips is closed at all times.

15.8.4 Unit This section refers to the load bearing components of the
Structure snubbing unit and includes any structure that is subjected to
Manufacture and loads during the use of the unit. These can include, but are not
Certification limited to, the slips, jack plates, rotary bearing, support legs or
angle irons, slip windows, etc.

All load-bearing components of the snubbing unit must have an

engineered rating. All welding of load bearing components must
have an engineered weld procedure supplied to the welders
before manufacture or during major modifications.

All load bearing components of the unit must be non-destructive

Snubbing Operations • 22
 (ND) tested at an interval of not more than 6 years. Tests must
be documented and available at the operations base.

15.8.5 Lifting For the purposes of this IRP, lifting equipment shall include, but
Equipment is not limited to, slings, pick-up subs, hold back winches,
shackles, pick-up elevators, as well as stand-up hoists utilized
for the rigging in and out of snubbing units.

All components of the lift system must have an engineered

rating sufficient for the overhead lift of the unit. Documentation
of all these components must be available for inspection.

All welded components of the lifting system for the unit must
have an engineered rating and be ND tested at time of
manufacture and at 6 year intervals thereafter. Documentation
of these tests must be available for inspection at the units base of
operations.

All wire rope slings and winch lines used for overhead lifts, shall
be re-certified by a qualified supplier at least every three years.
The slings and winch lines shall bear a tag or marking system
that is permanently attached to each sling or winch line. If
damaged within three years, slings or winch lines must be
removed from service.

The tubing transfer elevators shall have an engineered rating,

certified every three years and incorporate a double latch or
secondary safety lock to prevent accidental opening.

The short bails or other lifting devices supplied by the snubbing

contractor shall have an engineered rating and be non-
destructive tested on a 6 year cycle.

Snubbing Operations • 23
 15.8.6 Snubbing The vertical forces acting on a snubbing tubing/work string should
Forces and be analyzed to determine the force necessary to run the
Assembly Design tubing/work string into the well. Generally, there are four forces
acting on the string:

• Pressure area force resulting from well pressure acting on the

cross section of the tubing string.

• Gravitational force or weight of the string.

• Frictional force to pass through BOP’s.

• Force applied by the snubbing unit.

To ensure the safety of a snubbing operation, calculations are

required to confirm all equipment is suitable for the service to
which it will be exposed. These include:

• Maximum snubbing force required

• Depth of neutral point

• Critical buckling load of the tubing string for the support

conditions provided by the snubbing unit

• Collapse of the tubing

For wells with a history of corrosion, the reduced wall thickness

shall be estimated and reduced mechanical properties compared to

Snubbing Operations • 24
 snubbing pressure and load conditions.

15.9 Operational Practices

15.9.1 Spacing Careful consideration is needed when designing assemblies for

snubbing operations. In the event that there are odd shaped items
to be run or pulled, a spool is placed in the snubbing BOP
assembly with sufficient length to cover the item. This spool then
becomes a lubricator.

15.9.2 Pressure All valves, snubber’s BOP components, equalizing and bleed off
Testing lines, and additional spool’s shall be pressure tested prior to use.
Pressure tests must be conducted upon rig-up, any time a flanged
connection is loosened or changed or any time a BOP is serviced.

For Sweet or Caution Wells a wellbore pressure test may be used.

For Sour, High Risk or Critical Sour Wells pressure test as to
EUB’s specifications for safety or BOP’s appropriate jurisdictional
regulations.

15.9.3 Shut In Sweet or Caution Wells

Procedures
Whenever possible dual barriers should be used for annular tubing
pressure control. This can be achieved in various ways, i.e. land
dognuts and close 1 set of BOP’s, close 2 sets of pipe rams. All
valves must be closed and capped.

Sour or High Risk Wells

Dual barriers must be used for annular and tubing pressure control.
All valves must be closed and capped.

Snubbing Operations • 25
 Critical Sour Wells

Dual barriers must be used for annular and tubing pressure control.
Double valves must be used. On the equalize/bleed-off spool this
is achieved with the hydraulically activated valve and the ability to
close a BOP below the spool.

15.9.4 Tubing Sweet or Caution Wells

Plug
Requirements Profile nipples with plug in place or tubing bridge plugs may be
used. Hook wall or slip type plugs are not recommended, but if
they are used, a slip stop above is required.

Sour, High Risk, & Critical Sour Wells

Profile nipples with plug in place or tubing bridge plugs must be

used. Hook wall or slip type plugs must not be used.

• In all circumstances, qualified wireline operators or supervisors

must perform the installation of tubing plugs and accessory
equipment (i.e. slip stops).

15.9.5 Locking All Well Classes

Blind / Pipe Rams
All appropriate service and drilling rig rams must be locked
between the time they were closed and the start of the next
operation that requires them to be open again.

Examples are:

• Rigging up/out of snubbing unit.

Snubbing Operations • 26
 • Between trips.

• Whenever rams are closed to do any work on the BOPs and to

rig in/out of other services, i.e. wireline, coil tubing, etc.

15.9.5.1 Sour A blanket of N2, natural gas or fluid must be used in the annulus
Wells over 1% H2S for the safety of the people and for the efficiency of the equipment.
The tubing must be displaced to a non-H2S medium.

If a flammable product such as natural gas is used the potential

LEL issue must be addressed.

15.10 Critical Tasks

15.10.1 Cold At or below – 25 degrees Celsius only limited snubbing operations

Weather will be carried out and at or below – 35 degrees Celsius operations
Operations may be shut down.

15.10.1.1 • Crew efficiency, hydraulic and BOP equipment reliability are

Procedures greatly reduced in extreme cold.

• Below – 25 degrees Celsius limited operations will be carried

out.
• Crews must work with extreme caution to avoid frostbite;
extra crew members may be necessary to rotate duties;
• Sufficient heat to BOP’s must be assured for rubber parts
(rams, hydraulic seals, etc.) to operate efficiently and
maintained at a temperature above – 10 degrees Celsius;
• Snubbing unit hydraulics and engines must be kept running
and warm to maintain efficiency; problems which could
occur include: cavitating pumps, insufficient flows and

Snubbing Operations • 27
 pressures, BOP failures;
• Extra equipment to continue operations will be required;
such items could include: boilers, heaters, pre-fabs, tarps,
and electric BOP blankets;
• Respiratory equipment is suitable for cold weather
operations and is checked for efficiency.

• At or below -35 degrees Celsius, operations will be

discontinued unless authorized Snubbing contractor.

15.10.2 Snubbing Snubbing in the dark, (12-hour operations) is potentially hazardous

In The Dark (12 and is to be performed only when proper conditions and equipment
hour operations) are in place and such conditions and equipment have received
Snubbing Contractor’s management’s approval.

15.10.2.1 Wet tubing, shadows and lighting conditions can cause optical
Procedures illusions which effect operator judgment.
Sufficient lighting must be supplied to effect “daylight” conditions.

Crew Conditions:
• Working conditions affect job efficiency; long hours, cold
weather, and well conditions all need to be taken into
account.
• If snubbing at night is required, extra manpower must be in
place for a 24 hour operation.

Well Conditions:
• Wells with H2S content can be snubbed safely at night when
proper conditions exist and procedures are followed.
• Complicated procedures, i.e. snubbing long complicated
bottom hole assemblies will not be started at night.

Snubbing Operations • 28
 • Wet strings will not be snubbed at night.

All conditions and equipment influence a decision to continue or

shut down. The final decision is at the discretion of the Snubbing
Supervisor/Operator in consultation with Snubbing Contractor’s
Management.

15.10.3 Snubbing Snubbing at night during a 24-hour operation can be done in a safe
at Night (24 Hour efficient manner when proper well conditions and equipment are in
Operations) place, and such conditions and equipment have received Snubbing
Contractor’s management approval.

15.10.3.1 Wet tripping, shadows and lighting conditions can cause optical
Procedures illusions which effect operator judgment.

Sufficient lighting must be supplied to effect “daylight” conditions.

Safety and Operations:

• A pre-job safety and operations meeting must be held.

• This meeting includes the oil company representatives and

representatives from all service companies involved while
snubbing operations will be in progress.

• Topics would include safety, well condition, program for

the work, and job responsibilities.

Well Conditions:

• Wells with H2S content can be snubbed safely at night

when proper conditions exist and procedures are followed.

Snubbing Operations • 29
 • Complicated procedures to be performed at night must be
reviewed in a pre-job meeting to ensure proper procedure.
When possible complicated procedures should be scheduled
for daylight operations.

• Wet strings will not be snubbed at night. (Refer to

15.0.10.4 Wet Tripping)

Crew Requirements:

• A minimum of one operator and one assistant operator per

shift.

• A supervisor will be supplied at the request of the company

or if deemed necessary by the Snubbing Contractor’s
company.

• All conditions and equipment influence a decision to

continue or shut down. The final decision is at the
discretion of the Snubbing Supervisor or Operator in
consultation with Snubbing Contractor’s management.

15.10.4 Picking Units must be picked up and laid down in a safe manner to avoid
Up and Laying crew injury and/or equipment damage. All lifting devices used for
Down Snubbing the purpose of hoisting service equipment shall be certified for the
Units weight to be lifted. (Refer to 15.8.4 Lifting Equipment).

15.10.4.1 The snubbing operator must supervise the picking up and laying
Procedures down of snubbing units.

Prior to either operation, a comprehensive visual inspection must

be completed.

Snubbing Operations • 30
 15.10.4.2 Arriving • Park unit off location.
On Location and
Rigging Up • Change outerwear to proper protective clothing.

• Crews introduced to company representatives and Rig

Manager.

• Review well program and timing to move unit on location and

rig up.

• Hold a pre-rig up meeting with crewmembers.

• One person shall be assigned the task of operating the rig

controls during the rigging up of the snubbing unit and
auxiliary equipment.

• All conflicting tasks must be suspended prior to the rigging up

of the snubbing unit.

• Back unit up to the wellhead using a guide. ( Guide must be a

snubbing operator or supervisor).

• Ensure maxi brakes are applied and wheels are blocked.

• Engage the unit to hydraulic mode.

• Hook rig blocks to pick up sling.

• Clear area of all nonessential personnel.

Snubbing Operations • 31
 • Pick up unit and lower onto rig BOP and tighten flange bolts.

• Move snubbing truck away from well head using a guide.

(Guide must be a snubbing operator or supervisor).

• Pick up the snubbing power tongs using the rig winch line or
sand line. (Use extreme caution when picking the tongs up.
Stand back from the tongs, ensure good communication with
the person that is operating the winch line or sand line, do not
stand under the tongs, have a competent person operating the
rig controls, and make sure hoses and slings are free). One
person shall be assigned the task of operating the rig controls
during the rigging up of the snubbing unit and auxiliary
equipment.

• Hold a pre-job safety meeting with all personnel on location.

• When moving any well service equipment into an area where a

potential for collision exists, a guide shall be used to ensure the
way is clear. The man guiding the driver must be in the
driver’s view anytime the truck is in motion. A clearly
understood signal system must be incorporated between the
guide and the driver. (Follow IRP – 12 Hand Signals).

• In Saskatchewan, refer to Regulation 412.

15.10.4.3 Laying • When moving any well service equipment into an area where a
Down Unit potential for collision exists, a guide shall be used to ensure the
way is clear. The man guiding the driver must be in the drivers
view anytime the truck is in motion. A clearly understood
signal system must be incorporated between the guide and the
driver. (Refer to IRP-12, Hand Signals)

Snubbing Operations • 32
 • One person shall be assigned the task of operating the rig
controls during the rigging out of the snubbing unit.

• Back unit to wellhead using a guide. (Guide must be a

snubbing crew operator or supervisor).

• Ensure maxi brakes are applied and wheels are blocked.

• Re-engage unit to hydraulic mode.

• Hook rig blocks to pick up sling and pull tension

(approximately 2,000 daN).

• Rig out auxiliary equipment in basket.

• Break out flange bolts and pick up unit.

• Attach winch and lay down unit on truck.

• Move snubbing truck away from wellhead using a guide.

(Guide must be a snubbing crew operator or supervisor).

• Rig out remaining equipment and wrap hoses.

• Secure same for traveling.

15.10.4.4 Sub- • Spot unit at end of catwalk. Set maxi brakes

Structure Rig Up
• Depending on height of catwalk, it may be necessary to utilize
a loader or picker to skid jack onto end of catwalk.

Snubbing Operations • 33
 • Using rig blocks and snatch block arrangement skid unit to
bottom of v-door.

• Ensure all hoses are free and clear, drag unit up v-door using
rig blocks.

• Attach to rig BOP’s.

• Move power pack to clear area around the base of the sub-
structure to facilitate hose hook up.

• Prepare to pressure test hydraulics and BOP system of unit.

Note: Rig down procedures is reverse of above.

15.10.5 Stripping Annular blowout preventors are routinely used to control well
Collars / Tool pressure. However, well pressures and tubing types make stripping
Joints collars/tool joints between blowout preventors necessary.

15.10.5.1 • The majority of snubbing work is done with external upset and
Procedures tubing and recommended guidelines for stripping collars
through the annular are as follows:

• 60.3 mm (2 3/8”) EUE at 13,800 kPa (2000 psi)

• 73.0 mm (2 7/8”) EUE at 12 250 kPa (1750 psi)

• 88.9 mm (3 ½”) EUE at 4 000 kPa (600 psi)

• Such pressure guidelines should be adjusted where there is

annular element wear, poor tubing string condition, and cold

Snubbing Operations • 34
 temperature.

• At higher pressures, or due to well or equipment conditions,

collars/tool joints, may have to be staged in or out of the well.
This is an operation in which 2 stripping BOP’s with an
equalized and bleed-off spool between them are used to pass
the collar/tool joint.
• When the collar/tool joint is located between 2 stripping
BOP’s, pipe movement must stop while the snubbing operator
performs equalize/bleed off and BOP operations.

• Snubbing BOP’s must be properly warmed prior to tripping

operations.

15.10.6 Stripping Occasionally it becomes necessary to strip over a tubing stump in

Over Tubing or order to rig in the unit. This operation can entail some uncommon
Drill Pipe Stumps practices, and it is vital that the personnel involved with this
with Snubbing operation understand the added hazard that this procedure can
Unit present. There are many variables that can affect the method of
stripping-on that is chosen. A review with the operations staff
shall be conducted before stripping-on operations are undertaken.

15.10.6.1 • When a strip-on procedure is required, a review of the proposed

Procedures strip-on method will be discussed between the field personnel
and operations staff of the service contractor.

• All options, including ways to avoid the strip-on will be

discussed.

• Prior to lifting the unit for a strip-on, a comprehensive safety

meeting will be held with all personnel on location to review
the up coming lift.
• Crew positions and responsibilities must be clear.

Snubbing Operations • 35
 • Any additional equipment needed to accomplish the lift
must be on hand and ready (i.e. planking, extra chains for
securing the unit) before the lift can begin.

• Set tubing in slips, or if tubing/drill pipe is chained down,

calculate the force exerted upwards on the tubing/drill pipe and
ascertain whether the added weight of the snubbing unit will
make the tubing go down. If not, flowing the well, hanging of,
or a freeze procedure may be necessary.

• If the tubing is set in the slips at the rig floor, pick up the
snubbing unit using an appropriate sling. Do not use the lifting
sub, as the rig elevators will be used to hold the tubing/drill
pipe.

• Strip through the snubbing unit a joint of tubing/drill pipe or

pup joints of sufficient length to make up below the snubbing
unit, while still holding the tubing/drill pipe in the elevators.
Ensure that a proper ring gasket is installed.

• Close the traveling snubbing slips on the tubing/drill pipe. Use

chains, boomers and/or slings to stabilize the snubbing unit.

• Using the rig hoisting equipment, lift the tubing and snubbing
unit and remove slips Lower tubing/drill pipe until snubbing
unit can be installed on rig BOP's. If tubing/pipe cannot be
stripped through the rig BOP's, the snubbing unit, using
traveling and stationary snubbing slips, can "walk" itself down
the tubing/drill pipe and be installed on the rig BOP's.

• If the tubing/drill pipe is hung off in the rams or held in place

by a freeze procedure, the snubbing unit will have to stripped
over. If the stump is too high, it can be cut to a working height.
After the snubbing unit is installed on the rig BOP's, the stump

Snubbing Operations • 36
 can be pulled/snubbed out.

• Land the tubing/drill pipe. Install safety valve and pressure test
as required.

• Review next steps in operation.

• All lifting devices used for hoisting well service equipment

must comply with this IRP 15.8.5 Lifting equipment.

15.10.7 Wet In all Well Classes, tripping wet tubing which contains potentially
Tripping hazardous material will not be performed, i.e. frac fluids, spent
acid, condensate.

Tubing must be purged, i.e. Swabbing or displacing tubing with

N2, sweet gas or water before tripping.

15.10.7.1 The service company shall identify potential wet tripping

Procedures operations and communicate with the oil company representative
to review the program and offer alternatives that eliminate crew
exposure to potentially hazardous material. An MSDS for the
hazardous material must be available and posted.

• Program options to be investigated with the oil company

include:

• Swab the tubing as dry as possible and pump some fresh

water down tubing. Allow sufficient time lapse for the
inversion of the water and hazardous fluids. Normally, the
time to trip the tubing until reaching “wet” pipe, or
depending on timing, shutting down overnight, is sufficient.
When “wet” pipe is reached, swab it dry again.

Snubbing Operations • 37
 • The use of a pump through type wireline plug enables
tubing displacement by pumping water or nitrogen. If the
full displacement of the tubing is not practical, then swab
the tubing as dry as possible and when reaching “wet” pipe
at the end of the tubing string, purge with water or nitrogen.

• Displace fluid from tubing using endless tubing and air or

nitrogen.

• Displace hazardous fluids from tubing using endless tubing

and inert gas.

• Use of a mud can will be restricted to wet tripping water

only.

Personal protective equipment for the service crews must be

supplied.

15.10.8 Explosive In all well cases, if air is in a well that contains hydrocarbons,
Mixtures in the potential for an explosive mixture exists.
Wellbore
The well bore must be purged of air before snubbing operations
proceed.

15.10.8.1 The Service Company shall communicate with the oil company
representative to review the program and identify if air could be in
the wellbore. Alternatives will be discussed that eliminate
exposure to wellbore explosions.

Program options include:

• Flow the well, monitor the production and ensure the air has

Snubbing Operations • 38
 been purged.

• Displace the well with natural gas, inert gas or fluids.

The potential for explosive mixtures in the wellbore is not unique

to snubbing. Other operations may be exposed to the same risk,
i.e. swabbing, testing, wireline and coil tubing. For more
information regarding Air Entrainment and Explosive Mixtures
refer to IRP 4, Well Testing and Fluid Handling.

IRP #18, Explosive Atmospheres In Vessels, Tank And Piping

Systems, has been initiated. In the future, it will offer more detail.

15.11 Personnel and Qualification Requirements

15.11.1 Crew Note: Hours of Service regulations and job scope will dictate the
Requirements crew requirements.

This is left to the discretion of the snubbing contractor and their

Fatigue Management Program.

Snubbing Operations • 39
 15.11.1.1
Recommended
Minimum Workers
on a Wellsite
During Snubbing
Operations

15.11.1.1.1 Daylight 1 Operator and 1 Assistant Operator.

(12 hour) Operations
(Sweet or Caution
Wells)

15.11.1.1.2 Daylight 1 Supervisor/Senior Operator, 1 Assistant Operator

(12 hour) Operations
(Sour Wells)

15.11.1.1.3 Daylight 1 Supervisor, 1 Operator, 1 Assistant Operator.

(12 hour) Operations
(High Risk or
Critical Sour Wells)

15.11.1.1.4 Daylight 1 Supervisor/Senior operator, 1 Assistant Operator per shift.

(24 hour) Operations
(Sweet or Caution
Wells)

15.11.1.1.5 Daylight 1 Supervisor, 1 Operator, 1 Assistant Operator per shift.

(24 hour) Operations
(Sour Wells)

Snubbing Operations • 40
 15.11.1.1.6 Daylight 1 Supervisor, 1 Operator, 1 Assistant Operator per shift.
(24 hour) Operations
(High Risk or
Critical Sour Wells)

15.11.2 Minimum Snubbing Workers must possess industry certification under the
Snubbing Worker Petroleum Services Competency Program’s Standard of
Qualifications Competency for Snubbing Services.

Snubbing Operations • 41
Snubbing Operations Appendix “A” – Snubbing Inspection Checklist• 42