Introduction to
Plug & Abandonment
Purpose
This introductory eLearning course provides a clear, practical foundation in Plug & Abandonment (P&A) as required by the North Sea Transition Authority (NSTA). It builds essential awareness of the regulatory framework, barrier fundamentals, abandonment planning, and the expectations placed on operators conducting well decommissioning in the UKCS.
The course prepares learners for more advanced operational or engineering-level P&A training by establishing the core concepts, terminology, and regulatory duties that underpin safe, compliant, and workmanlike well abandonment.
What the Course Covers
The course uses short modules, clean visuals, and scenario-based interactions to reinforce learning and ensure accessibility for both technical and non-technical roles.
Course Modules
- The Decommissioning Landscape and Economic Drivers
- The UKCS Regulatory Framework and the Role of the NSTA
- Well Barrier Fundamentals
- Engineering Design and Operational Phases
- Execution: Wellbore Preparation, Placement and Verification
Learning Outcomes
By the end of this course, delegates will be able to:
- Describe the purpose of Plug & Abandonment and its importance in the UKCS
- Explain the NSTA’s role in regulating well decommissioning
- Identify operator obligations under the Model Clauses and Offshore Safety Directive
- Recognise the purpose of WONS and when notifications and consents are required
- Define well barriers and understand the basics of barrier integrity and verification
- Distinguish between temporary suspension and permanent abandonment
- Outline the key components of an abandonment plan and abandonment strategy
- Apply foundational concepts to a simple P&A scenario
Assessment & Certification
Learners complete a final knowledge check to demonstrate understanding of the core concepts. Successful participants receive an Aberdeen Technical Training Certificate.
Who It Is For
- Well engineering teams
- HSE personnel
- Asset teams and intervention crews
- Regulatory and planning staff
- Anyone requiring a foundational understanding of UKCS well abandonment expectations
Progression Pathway
This course forms the foundation for the 3-day Intermediate / Operator-Level Plug & Abandonment programme, where delegates develop practical competence in barrier design, abandonment schematics, verification methods, and operational execution.
How It Works
No travel, no fixed dates, no waiting. Enrol online and start learning in minutes.
Industry Recognised
