[QUOTE=captmrb;41897]Earl and billslug,
Downhole information is typically monitored much more precisely than just through pressure readings. Here’s a primer on Logging While Drilling (LWD). http://www.rigzone.com/training/insight.asp?insight_id=297&c_id=1
At the P&A stage of the well they wouldn’t have LWD tools in the hole though.[/QUOTE]
Interesting, thanks very much for the link. But as you noted, there was no equivalent direct monitoring of critical safety status during the operation in question. I seem to observe in this industry a miniscule R&D expenditure compared to the risks involved in this form of drilling, and what is spent seems to be focused on efficiency and effectiveness rather than safety. From my outsider perspective, of course.
Cheers,
Earl