Regulatory Intelligence
What if required drill cuttings cannot be collected?
Category:
Well Licensing
Research Basis
Archive Period
2015-2025
Records Reviewed
71
Primary Topics
D056; drill cuttings; sample waiver; horizontal well; 5 m intervals; lost circulation; well classification
Current Reference
AER Directive 056; AER Manual 012; Oil and Gas Conservation Rules
Common Question
What if required drill cuttings cannot be collected?
Archive Findings
The folder includes cutting-sample waiver correspondence and later notes that requirements may apply to all horizontal legs. Manual 012/D056 excerpts tie cuttings to well classification and sample intervals.
Lost circulation or design changes may explain missed samples, but the explanation must be documented.
Engineering Insight
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Check cutting requirements during drilling program review. If samples cannot be collected, keep the interval, reason, operational record, and any regulator correspondence in the well file.
Current Guidance
Use Directive 056 and Manual 012 for well application and sample requirements. Check OGCR and geologic sample requirements before relying on a waiver.