EIA (Energy Information Administration)

A volume measurement equal to one acre of surface area filled one foot deep, roughly 1,233 cubic metres. Common in water management contracts for tailings ponds, frac water storage, and site remediation. Subcontractors may be scoped and billed based on acre-feet of material moved or treated.

A method where multiple wells are drilled from a single surface location, or pad. For subcontractors, this means sustained, back-to-back work cycles with minimal rig-up and tear-down time. Efficient mobilisation and crew scheduling are critical to maintaining productivity across the pad.

A trenchless method used to install pipelines, conduits, or cables beneath obstacles like roads, rivers, or existing infrastructure. Subcontractors are typically engaged for the drill crew, mud mixing, and equipment operation. Scopes are highly specialised and often require certified operators and dedicated HDD spreads.

A ground excavation method where holes are drilled into rock, then loaded with explosives and detonated. Subcontractors on these scopes typically require certified blasters and strict compliance with provincial explosives regulations. Expect tight sequencing with other trades and potential site shutdowns during blast windows.

Drilling wells at increasing distances from a proven discovery to test the boundaries of a reservoir. For subcontractors, it signals extended mobilisation cycles and potential new work corridors. Expect shifting logistics, camp requirements, and crew rotations as operators push further from existing infrastructure.

A heavy oil extraction method using paired horizontal wells where steam is injected into the upper well to heat bitumen, allowing it to drain by gravity to the lower production well. Creates specialized maintenance and service opportunities for subcontractors in steam generation equipment, wellhead systems, and pipeline infrastructure at oil sands operations.

How Operator Mergers and Acquisitions Affect Your Subcontract Agreements

When operators merge, get acquired, or sell assets, subcontractor agreements are caught in the middle. Learn how M&A activity affects your MSA, payment terms, vendor status, and what to do before, during, and after a deal closes.

How Rig Count Trends Affect Subcontractor Demand and What to Do About It

Rig counts are the earliest signal of where field service work is heading. Learn how to read drilling activity trends, anticipate demand shifts, and position your crew before the phone stops ringing.

What Is an AFE in Oil and Gas and How Does It Affect Subcontractor Payments?

An AFE (Authorization for Expenditure) controls every dollar spent on an oilfield project. Learn how it affects your billing, change orders, and cash flow as a subcontractor.