Hawaii geothermal blowout prevention manual : Circular C-125

Abstract

The prevention of an uncontrolled well flow, commonly known as a "blowout", is of vital importance for geothermal operators, drilling crews, state and county regulators, and the general public. Geothermal well blowouts have not been the cause of a significant number of fatalities, and the danger of fire, as in petroleum drilling, is quite low. However, blowout incidents may have a negative impact on surface and subsurface environments, cause resource waste, and develop unfavorable public perceptions of geothermal activity. These concerns are powerful incentives to operators and regulators to minimize the risks of a blowout. This Manual has been developed to promote safety and good resource management by discussing and describing blowout prevention as it can best be practiced in Hawaii. The intent of this Manual is to provide the necessary information to guide regulators and operators in the practices and procedures, appropriate to each drilling situation, that will minimize the risks of a blowout. The Manual is also intended to promote an informed flexibility in blowout prevention practices, and to supplement State and County regulations, especially those pertaining directly to drilling permits and operations. This first edition of the Blowout Prevention Manual is a likely candidate for revision as more drilling experience and information is gathered in the exploration and development of Hawaii's geothermal resources.