FieldNews
Subscribe

Daily oil & gas and construction news for subcontractors

IndustryGlossary Term

Lease Sale

A government auction where energy companies bid for the right to explore and develop specific land or offshore blocks. Winning bids signal upcoming exploration activity, which often leads to new work opportunities for field service subcontractors. Tracking lease sales helps companies anticipate demand and position crews and equipment accordingly.

Related Terms

Midstream Infrastructure

Industry

The pipelines, compressor stations, and processing facilities that move and condition product between the wellhead and end markets. For subcontractors, it represents a major source of maintenance, construction, and inspection work. Contracts here often involve long project timelines and strict regulatory oversight.

Permanent Magnets

Industry

Fixed magnets that retain their magnetic field without external power, used in motors, sensors, and lifting equipment on job sites. Subcontractors handling this equipment must follow strict handling and storage protocols to prevent injury or tool damage. They are common in downhole tools, generators, and magnetic lifting devices.

Long-Haul Pipeline

Industry

A large-diameter transmission pipeline moving oil, gas, or NGLs over hundreds or thousands of kilometres between facilities. For subcontractors, these projects involve extended mobilisation, multi-phase scopes, and strict regulatory oversight. Work typically includes welding, coating, hydrotesting, and right-of-way clearing across varied terrain.

Cook Inlet

Industry

A major oil and gas producing basin in southcentral Alaska with active offshore and onshore operations. Subcontractors working here face remote logistics, tidal extremes, and strict environmental regulations. Mobilisation costs and specialised marine requirements significantly affect bid pricing.

Rigging

Industry

The equipment and techniques used to lift, secure, and move heavy loads on a job site. Subcontractors must ensure all rigging gear is certified and operators are ticketed. Improper rigging is a leading cause of serious incidents and contract liability.

WCS (Western Canadian Select)

Industry

WCS is the benchmark price for Alberta heavy oil blends sold at Hardisty, Alberta. When WCS prices drop, upstream operators cut budgets, directly reducing subcontractor work volumes and day rates. Monitoring WCS helps field service companies anticipate slowdowns and plan workforce levels accordingly.

Stay sharp on field operations

Industry news and insights, delivered to your inbox.

Subscribe to FieldNews
A community project byAimsio