The International Well Control Forum (IWCF) has launched a new assurance framework, IWCF Quality Assured, providing an independent quality endorsement for well control training outside of IWCF’s core accreditations.
The framework is designed to give learners, employers, and training providers confidence in the effectiveness of their training and supports IWCF’s mission to make the oil and gas industry safer.
Launched exclusively to IWCF members at the annual well control workshop and AGM, held in Istanbul on 19–20 November. The framework offers a flexible, independent endorsement for well control training that falls outside IWCF’s accreditation scope, giving providers and employers assurance in the quality, structure, and relevance of their programmes.
The framework comprises of nine standards, covering everything from course design and delivery to assessment, digital learning and on-the-job training. Each standard includes defined criteria that providers must meet to achieve IWCF Quality Assured standards.
IWCF Quality Assured will cover four categories:
- Well Control Specialist Topics, covering training programmes that address specific well control-related topics not covered under IWCF accreditation such as stuck pipe prevention and recovery, High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT), Well Integrity Management and Human Factors.
- Operationally Embedded Training, with topics related to development programmes for drillers, supervisors, subsea engineers and intervention specialists.
- Specialist Equipment, for programmes focused on the use of specific well and well control related equipment such as any item that constitutes a well barrier, either temporary or permanent.
- Continuous Learning Mechanisms, for providers offering systems or tools that promote ongoing learning and assessment such as pre-course modules, pre-tests or digital platforms that allow candidates to reinforce their knowledge at any time.
Training providers and employers will receive a 12-month endorsement, with renewal opportunities if IWCF Quality Assured standards are maintained. This will support vital risk reduction across the sector and showcases IWCF’s continued commitment to provide competency assurance and continuous development globally.
What the IWCF Quality Assured standards are
The framework is based on nine standards that cover the full training lifecycle. Not every Quality Assured standard applies to every course. We start the process with a discovery call to understand the training and delivery method and assess which standards are relevant. Overall, the standards work together to turn quality into something that is measurable and repeatable. They give providers a clear roadmap, learners a better experience and the industry a benchmark for excellence.
What the IWCF Quality Assured process looks like
The process is designed to be clear and supportive.
It begins with an initial discussion (discovery call) to understand the training being delivered. Training providers then complete an application supported by evidence such as course plans, instructor CVs and information about how you support learners.
IWCF then review your application in line with the IWCF Quality Assured standards, alongside a technical check by a subject matter expert (SME).
They provide feedback through a traffic light system which shows where standards are being met, where minor improvements are needed, and where further development is required. The focus is on transparency and continuous improvement.
The feedback IWCF offer through the Quality Assured process is valuable in its own right, supporting reflection, improvement and long-term quality.
Once approved, the Quality Assured endorsement is valid for 12 months. The renewal process is straightforward; IWCF will contact you ahead of the expiry date to confirm ongoing compliance, which may include an observation and a review of sample records.
IWCF’s message to Training Providers and Employers
IWCF CEO shares why IWCF Quality Assured matters:
“Quality Assured 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 impacts for life and reputation.”
For training providers, IWCF Quality Assured offers meaningful recognition for high-quality training and a clear way to demonstrate independent verification to clients. For employers, it provides confidence that training meets international standards and shows a clear commitment to developing competent people.
The Well Academy, based in Apeldoorn, The Netherlands was a trial participant of Quality Assured. Director of Training at the centre, Jan Willem Flamma, said: “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.”
Find out more, submit an enquiry, or read IWCF’s latest blog to learn how IWCF Quality Assured can support your training programme.