From the Archive:
Regulatory Intelligence
Does noncombustible gas testing fall outside D060?
Category:
Flaring and Venting
Research Basis
Archive Period
1999-2025
Records Reviewed
33
Primary Topics
noncombustible gas; helium testing; N2; CO2; well testing; D060 permit
Current Reference
AER Directive 060; AER Directive 040
Common Question
Does noncombustible gas testing fall outside D060?
Archive Findings
Not necessarily. The 2017 helium-testing discussion was initially uncertain, but the conclusion was that because the well was licensed through AER, flaring or venting had to follow D060.
The archive also shows the key facts: whether gas is vented or combusted, the gas mix, duration, volumes, and whether thresholds or dispersion concerns are triggered.
Engineering Insight
.png)
Need help with an application?
Our team can help you navigate regulatory requirements, prepare strong applications and avoid costly delays
587.880.2249
Start with the licence and activity, not just the gas composition. For N2/CO2 cleanup or helium-related testing, confirm volume, duration, gas analysis, combustion support, odours, H2S, and AAAQO implications.
Current Guidance
Current Directive 060 covers well-test flaring, incineration, enclosed combustion, venting, and noncombustible gas requirements. Directive 040 may support test design and deliverability evidence.
Related Regulatory Insights
Historical newsletter insights that reference the same directive, manual, rule or regulatory requirement.
Oct 1, 2025
AERH2S Model Released and Directive 040 Testing Reminder
This issue covers the release of the AERH2S model, site-specific risk assessment guidance, and recurring Directive 040 pressure-testing and packer isolation testing reminders. It connects H2S modelling, well testing, and compliance deadlines that operators should track before submitting or updating well-licensing materials.
Aug 1, 2025
Directive 040 Testing Reminder and 2025 Directive Updates
This issue combines Directive 040 pressure-testing reminders with updates to Directives 059, 008, 087, and 011, the 2026 closure spend requirement, Alberta Capital Cost Index information, P&NG term extensions, and BC pipeline environmental items. It is a strong compliance-monitoring resource for operators planning annual obligations.
Oct 1, 2024
Directive 040 Testing Reminder and 2024 AER Directive Feedback
This newsletter provides annual Directive 040 and packer isolation testing reminders, well-testing content, and feedback-related updates for Directives 060, 071, and 020. It is a practical compliance article for operators managing recurring testing obligations and regulator feedback cycles.
May 1, 2025
Benoit+ WellFile and Key 2025 Directive Updates
This issue introduces Benoit+ WellFile and summarizes regulatory updates involving Directive 040, Directive 060, Directive 039, Directive 020, pilot-technology guidance, shallow-rights reversion, Saskatchewan orphan matters, and BC EIMS items.