N.M. Admin. Code § 19.15.10.8

Current through Register Vol. 36, No. 1, January 14, 2025

Section 19.15.10.8 - SAFETY PROCEDURES FOR DRILLING AND PRODUCTION

A. An operator shall:

(1) clean oil wells into a pit permitted pursuant to 19.15.17 NMAC or a tank, not less than 40 feet from the derrick floor and 150 feet from a fire hazard;

(2) produce flowing oil wells through an oil and gas separator of ample capacity and in good working order;

(3) not place or leave a boiler or portable electric lighting generator nearer than 150 feet to a producing well or oil tank; and

(4) remove rubbish or debris that might constitute a fire hazard to a distance of at least 150 feet from the vicinity of wells and tanks and burn or dispose of waste in a manner as to avoid creating a fire hazard.

B. When coming out of the hole with drill pipe, the operator shall circulate drilling fluid until equalized and subsequently maintain drilling fluid level at a height sufficient to control bottom hole pressures. During course of drilling, the operator shall test blowout preventers at least once each 24-hour period.

N.M. Admin. Code § 19.15.10.8

19.15.10.8 NMAC - Rp, 19.15.3.114 NMAC, 12/1/08