Precautions Whilst Drilling
Whilst drilling, the drilling crew will be watching for the indicators described above. If one of the indicators are seen then an operation known as a flow check is carried out to confirm whether an influx is taking place or not. The procedure for conducting a flowcheck is as follows:
(i) Pick up the Kelly until a tool joint appears above the rotary table
(ii) Shut down the mud pumps
(iii) Set the slips to support the drillstring
(iv) Observe flowline and check for flow from the annulus
(v) If the well is flowing, close the BOP. If the well is not flowing resume drilling, checking for further indications of a kick.