The segment of the oil and gas industry involved in exploration and production (E&P). Includes drilling, completions, and well operations.
Upstream
Related Terms
BOE (Barrel of Oil Equivalent)
IndustryA standardised unit of energy measurement that converts different types of oil and gas production into equivalent barrels of crude oil, used by operators to report total production volumes when determining project scope and service requirements for subcontractors.
FPSO (Floating Production, Storage and Offloading Unit)
IndustryA 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.
CSG (Casing)
IndustrySteel pipe installed in a wellbore to provide structural integrity and prevent contamination between different geological formations, requiring specialized installation and cementing services that subcontractors frequently provide during drilling operations.
Field Ticket
IndustryA document created in the field that records work performed, equipment used, materials consumed, and time spent. Field tickets are the basis for invoicing and must typically be approved by the customer before payment.
ROV (Remotely Operated Vehicle)
IndustryAn unmanned, tethered underwater robot used to inspect, survey, or perform work on subsea pipelines, wellheads, and structures — subcontractors providing ROV services typically require specialised operators and vessels, and should account for mobilisation costs and standby rates when bidding these scopes.
EPC (Engineering, Procurement, Construction)
IndustryA project delivery model where one main contractor handles all phases from design to completion, typically creating multiple subcontracting opportunities for field service companies across different project phases. For subcontractors, EPC projects often mean working under a prime contractor who coordinates all trades and manages the overall timeline and specifications.
Latest Industry News
EIA Raises US Oil Production Forecast as WTI Price Outlook Jumps to $74
The EIA's March 2026 Short-Term Energy Outlook projects US crude production reaching 13.83 million boe/d in 2027, a 4% upward revision driven by sharply higher WTI price forecasts. Here's what that means for subcontractors pricing work and planning capacity.
20 hours ago IndustryPRIO's Wahoo Field in Brazil Reaches Commissioning Phase, First Oil Days Away
Brazilian operator PRIO has completed installation and received its operating license for the Wahoo field in the Campos basin, with first oil expected within days via a subsea tie-back to the FPSO Frade.
20 hours ago IndustrySenate Committee Advances Mullin's DHS Nomination in Narrow 8-7 Vote
The Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee voted 8-7 to advance Markwayne Mullin's nomination as DHS secretary, with a full Senate confirmation vote expected the week of March 23. Here's what a leadership change at DHS could mean for subcontractors.
20 hours ago IndustryTulsa Data Center Campus Decision Pushed to April After Planning Commission Delay
Tulsa's Planning Commission delayed a rezoning vote on the proposed Project Anthem data center campus, pushing a decision to April 1. City staff had already recommended denial of the 300-acre proposal.
20 hours agoStay sharp on field operations
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