Control Exam Practice Questions And

IWCF Level 4 Well Intervention Pressure Control Exam Practice Questions And Correct Answers (Verified Answers) Plus Rationales 2026 Q&A | Instant Download Pdf

• What is the primary purpose of a well intervention BOP (Blowout

Preventer)?

a) To increase production

b) To circulate drilling mud

c) To prevent uncontrolled flow from the well

d) To support casing

Rationale: The main purpose of a BOP is to prevent uncontrolled

release of well fluids, protecting personnel, equipment, and the environment. 1 / 4

• Which of the following is a key indicator of an impending well kick?

a) Increase in pump speed

b) Decrease in mud density

c) Sudden increase in flow rate at the flow line

d) Change in drill pipe length

Rationale: A sudden increase in flow rate indicates formation fluids

entering the wellbore, signaling a kick.

• When performing a well kill, what is the main principle behind the

“wait and weight” method?

a) Circulate lighter mud first

b) Close the BOP immediately

c) Circulate heavier mud to control the well while monitoring

pressures

d) Vent the well to the atmosphere

Rationale: The wait and weight method involves circulating heavier

mud to overbalance formation pressure safely.

• What is the function of a stripper ram in a BOP stack?

a) Seal annulus permanently

b) Seal around the tubing while allowing movement

c) Increase flow through the wellbore

d) Detect gas influx

Rationale: Stripper rams provide a seal around tubing, allowing

continued movement while maintaining pressure control. 2 / 4

• During well intervention, which fluid property is critical for

maintaining well control?

a) Viscosity only

b) Surface tension

c) Density (mud weight)

d) Color

Rationale: Mud density must exceed formation pressure to maintain

a hydrostatic column and prevent kicks.

• What is the correct action if a kick is detected while pulling tubing with

a BOP in place?

a) Continue pulling tubing at a slower rate

b) Close the BOP and follow well control procedures

c) Increase pump rate immediately

d) Lower the BOP stack

Rationale: Closing the BOP isolates the well and allows for controlled

kill procedures to prevent a blowout.

• Which type of kill is suitable when a well is flowing at low rates and

pressures?

a) Driller’s method

b) Bullheading

c) Circulate and weight

d) Snubbing 3 / 4

Rationale: Bullheading involves pumping kill fluid directly into the

formation without circulating, suitable for low-flow situations.

• What is the maximum allowable pressure drop across a BOP stack

during intervention?

• 200 psi
• 500 psi

c) Determined by manufacturer and well design limits

• 50 psi

Rationale: Pressure drops must remain within the design limits

specified by equipment manufacturer and operational procedures.

• Which device allows circulation through a subsea tree during

intervention?

a) Kelly

b) Swab valve

c) Intervention riser with a lubricator

d) Annular preventer

Rationale: Lubricators are used with subsea trees to allow safe

circulation and well access during intervention.

• What is the main hazard of gas-cut mud during intervention

operations?

a) Increased mud density

b) Corrosion

c) Reduced hydrostatic pressure leading to kick risk

• / 4