The International Well Control Forum (IWCF) has launched a new assurance framework designed to lift standards in well control training that sits outside its formal accreditation schemes. Branded “Quality Assured,” the initiative is intended to give employers and training providers an independent endorsement for programmes that fall beyond IWCF’s existing scope.
Rather than replacing accredited training, Quality Assured targets specialist and operationally focused content that has historically been harder to benchmark. IWCF says the framework offers a flexible endorsement model, giving providers and employers more confidence in the structure, quality, and relevance of their courses.
“Through Quality Assured, we’re committed to ensuring the highest standards in well control training, providing consistency and empowering professionals. This goes beyond compliance; it’s about giving the sector confidence in the training they are investing in and supports a culture of continuous development and accountability across the oil and gas industry, where well control incidents can have far reaching impact on life and reputation,” said Zdenek Sehnal, CEO of IWCF.
At the core of Quality Assured are nine standards covering course design, delivery, assessment, digital learning, and on-the-job training. Each standard comes with defined criteria that providers must meet to gain endorsement. IWCF is positioning this not as a tick-box exercise but as a structured review that forces providers to scrutinise content quality, instructional methods, and how learning is reinforced.
The framework was unveiled to members at IWCF’s annual well control workshop and AGM in Istanbul, a two-day event that brought together specialists from across the sector to discuss challenges and best practice. With the industry under pressure to reduce risk while adopting new technologies and operating models, the timing is unlikely to be accidental.
Quality Assured launches with four categories. “Well Control Specialist Topics” covers targeted courses on issues such as stuck pipe prevention and recovery, HPHT operations, well integrity management, and human factors. “Operationally Embedded Training” focuses on programmes built into the development of drillers, supervisors, subsea engineers, and intervention specialists. “Specialist Equipment” covers training on specific well and well control-related equipment, including items that constitute permanent or temporary well barriers. “Continuous Learning Mechanisms” recognises systems and tools that support ongoing learning, including pre-course modules, pre-tests, and digital platforms for continuous knowledge reinforcement.
The Well Academy in Apeldoorn, The Netherlands, served as a trial participant. “We were thoroughly impressed with the Quality Assured feedback from IWCF. The report on our Stuck Pipe Prevention & Recovery course went far beyond a simple evaluation, providing a true partnership in quality.
“The detailed strengths and constructive recommendations will be invaluable in helping us elevate our course materials and delivery, reinforcing our commitment to delivering high quality training and supporting continuous improvement for our learners,” said Jan Willem Flamma, Director of Training at The Well Academy.
Endorsements under Quality Assured will run for 12 months, with renewal possible if standards are maintained. That means one more layer of scrutiny for training providers and operators to deal with, but also offers a clearer signal that non-accredited courses have been held to consistent, published criteria rather than internal mark-ups and marketing claims.
