Physical Oil Price

A ship-shaped offshore vessel that processes and stores crude oil or gas directly at sea, then transfers it to tankers — for subcontractors, FPSOs represent remote, long-duration worksites with strict offshore safety certification requirements, specialised crew rotation logistics, and scope that can span topside maintenance, marine systems, and instrumentation work simultaneously.

A single, unplanned service request dispatched to a subcontractor or field technician outside of scheduled work. Each call-out is typically logged as a discrete billable event. Subcontractors often charge a flat call-out fee plus time and materials.

The final phase of connecting a well or facility to live production infrastructure, including pipelines, separators, and metering equipment. For subcontractors, it typically means intensive, time-sensitive scope with strict sequencing requirements. Delays can trigger penalties, making accurate scheduling and crew readiness critical.

A budgeting document used in oil and gas projects that outlines expected costs and seeks approval before work begins. Subcontractors often work under AFEs issued by operators.

A voluntary safety certification program in Canada that recognizes employers who have developed health and safety management systems that meet established standards. Required by many operators in Alberta and Western Canada.

A control system that monitors and manages field equipment like pipelines, compressors, and wellheads in real time. Subcontractors working on SCADA-connected sites must follow strict access and cybersecurity protocols. Your work may trigger automated alarms or shutdowns if procedures aren't followed precisely.

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.