Rig Count

A high-voltage power line that moves electricity over long distances between generation sources and distribution networks. Subcontractors often support transmission line projects through clearing, trenching, tower erection, and right-of-way maintenance work.

The regulated distance between wellbores on a pad or lease area. Tighter spacing means more wells drilled closer together, increasing crew density and equipment demand. Subcontractors should anticipate compressed timelines and overlapping scopes when spacing is tight.

A global professional organisation that publishes technical standards, research, and best practices used across the oil and gas industry. Subcontractors may reference SPE papers and guidelines to meet operator technical requirements or bid on specialised work.

Steel pipes used in drilling and well construction, including casing, tubing, and drill pipe. Subcontractors handling tubulars must follow strict inspection and handling procedures. Damage during your scope can result in costly liability claims.

The construction and assembly of the above-water structures on offshore platforms, including decks, modules, and processing equipment, where subcontractors are typically engaged for specialised trades such as structural welding, pipefitting, electrical, and instrumentation work. For field service companies, topside scopes often involve strict offshore safety certifications, remote logistics, and milestone-based billing tied to fabrication progress.

A measure of natural gas production or pipeline throughput volume. Higher BCF/d figures on a project typically signal larger-scale operations requiring more field crews and equipment. Subcontractors can use this metric to gauge the scope and duration of potential work.

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.

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.