A well inspection in Oklahoma can identify equipment, safety, environmental or recordkeeping violations that require prompt action. The steps an operator must take – and whether production can continue – depend on the violation, the applicable Oklahoma Corporation Commission (OCC) requirements and the terms of the inspection notice. Prompt action can help address the violation, document the corrective work and reduce the risk of continued noncompliance.
Respond to the violation notice quickly
The time allowed to correct a violation can depend on the applicable OCC rule, the type of violation and the requirements stated in the inspection notice or other agency communication. Read the notice carefully and identify each cited violation and any deadline stated in the notice.
Review every violation and its stated deadline. Address any immediate safety or environmental hazards promptly while making sure each cited violation is corrected within the time required by the applicable notice or rule. Keep photos, repair invoices and updated maintenance logs for each correction.
Request a reinspection after corrections
After you finish the required fixes, contact the agency to ask for a follow-up inspection. A follow-up inspection may allow the agency to confirm that cited conditions have been corrected, but additional agency action or documentation may still be required.
Once you complete the required corrections, promptly determine whether the OCC requires or permits a follow-up inspection and follow the applicable process. Delays can slow the process and may create more problems if new issues come up. Before any follow-up inspection, check the site again to make sure you fixed all cited problems.
Document all compliance efforts
Keep a clear record of every step you take after the inspection. This can help if the agency takes further action or if someone later questions how you handled the issue. Notes, photos and repair records can all help show your response.
Organized records can also help with later compliance reviews. Organized files make it easier to show what you fixed and when.
Maintain compliance after the inspection
Fast action, clear records and a documented plan can help you manage an inspection failure more effectively. Because the rules can vary, it helps to understand the exact requirements before you make the next move.