The International Well Control Forum (IWCF) is a global organization that sets international standards for well control training and certification in the oil and gas industry.
IWCF Level 2 is one of its certification levels, designed for personnel who directly or indirectly contribute to detecting, creating, or controlling an influx during drilling operations.
In short, IWCF Level 2 certification provides essential knowledge of well control concepts — equipment, procedures, and safety risks — to ensure that personnel can work safely and effectively in drilling environments.
This level introduces the core principles of well control — pressure, safety procedures, and equipment — helping participants build essential field knowledge.
Why Is IWCF Level 2 Important?
1. Industry Compliance – Many drilling and well-service companies require IWCF certification as a mandatory qualification.
2. Operational Safety – Proper well control knowledge minimizes the risk of blowouts, uncontrolled pressure release, and other major hazards.
3. Career Advancement – Having an IWCF Level 2 certificate enhances your professional credibility and opens doors for promotion or international employment.
4. Global Validity – As an internationally recognized certification, IWCF credentials are accepted worldwide.
Who Should Take IWCF Level 2?
IWCF Level 2 is designed for individuals currently working in or preparing for field-level roles such as:
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Roughneck, Derrickman, or Barge Engineer
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BOP/Subsea Engineer
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Mud Logger or Well-site Data Engineer
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Rig crew contributing to drilling or well operations
Although prior certification is not required, Level 2 is an ideal starting point before progressing to Level 3 or Level 4.
IWCF Level 2 Course Topics
Participants will learn core concepts and hands-on skills related to well control, including:
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Fundamentals of pressure, hydrostatic balance, and formation pressure
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Kick detection and warning signs of influx
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Drilling circulation systems and mud properties
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Well control equipment: BOP (Blow-Out Preventer), choke manifold, and subsea systems
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Well control methods: Driller’s Method, Wait & Weight, and shut-in procedures
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Risk management and the barrier envelope principle
Course Format & Certification Details
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Duration: Typically 4 days for classroom-based training
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Online option: Self-paced modules available (approx. 20 hours)
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Exam: Two parts – “Principles & Procedures” and “Equipment”
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Passing score: Minimum 70%
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Certificate validity: 5 years
Variants of IWCF Level 2
There are two main variants:
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IWCF Level 2 Drilling Well Control – Focused on drilling operations.
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IWCF Level 2 Well Intervention Pressure Control – Intended for well service operators working with wireline, coiled-tubing, or snubbing operations.
Each program emphasizes safe control of wellbore pressure under different operational contexts.
How to Succeed in IWCF Level 2
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Register for an IWCF Candidate Registration Number before starting.
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Strengthen your math skills (pressure, volume, and kill sheet calculations).
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Review common technical terms like mud weight, kick tolerance, and bottom-hole pressure.
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Practice simulations for real well control scenarios.
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Focus on warning signs and shut-in procedures, as they are key exam topics.
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Choose the certification type: Surface Only or Combined Surface & Subsea.
IWCF Level 2 Training at Neotek Inovasi Global
PT Neotek Inovasi Global (NIG) is a Primary Training Center for IWCF certification in Indonesia, offering both online and in-person classes every week.
Courses are led by IWCF & IADC-certified instructors with extensive field experience, ensuring participants receive the most up-to-date international standard training.
Weekly Training Schedule
Location: Serpong, South Tangerang & Online
Contact Neotek Inovasi Global for registration and full schedule.
