1. (1) A Class VI well has mechanical integrity if:

   1. (a) there is no significant leak in the casing, tubing, or packer; and
   2. (b) there is no significant fluid movement into a USDW through channels adjacent to the injection wellbore.

2. (2) To evaluate the absence of significant leaks, the operator shall:

   1. (a) perform an annulus pressure test:

      1. (i) after initial well construction or conversion as part of the pre-operating requirements;
      2. (ii) at least once every 12 months to a pressure equal to the maximum authorized injection pressure or to 1,000 psi, whichever is greater.
   2. (b) continuously monitor injection pressure, rate, injected volumes; pressure on the annulus between tubing and long-string casing; and annulus fluid volume as specified in Subsection R644-11-1(5).

3. (3) At least once every 12 months, the operator shall use one of the following methods to determine the absence of significant fluid movement:

   1. (a) an approved tracer-type survey such as a radioactive tracer, oxygen-activation log, or similar tool; or
   2. (b) a temperature or noise log.
4. (4) If required by the division, the operator shall run a casing inspection log at a frequency specified in the testing and monitoring plan at Rule R644-13 to determine the presence or absence of corrosion in the long-string casing.

5. (5) The division may require additional tests to evaluate mechanical integrity of the well.

   1. (a) The division may allow the use of a test to demonstrate mechanical integrity other than those listed in Subsections (1) through (5) with written approval of the USEPA. To obtain approval for the use of a new mechanical integrity test, the operator shall submit a written request to the division with details of the proposed test and all technical data supporting its use, and the division will submit a written request to the USEPA.
6. (6) In conducting and evaluating the tests enumerated in this section or others to be allowed by the division, the operator and the division shall apply methods and standards generally accepted in the industry. When the operator reports the results of mechanical integrity tests to the division, a description of the tests and methods used shall be included. In making the evaluation, the division shall review monitoring and other test data submitted since the previous evaluation. The division may require additional or alternative tests if the mechanical integrity test results presented are not satisfactory to the division to demonstrate that there is no significant leak in the casing, tubing, or packer, or to demonstrate that there is no significant movement of fluid into a USDW resulting from the injection activity.

KEY: oil and gas law

Date of Last Change: July 31, 2025

Authorizing, and Implemented or Interpreted Law: 40-11-3