Blowout preventers (BOPs) are the last line of defense in oil and gas drilling. When high-pressure situations arise, these critical components stop uncontrolled well flow and keep operations safe. But to do their job effectively, BOPs need routine inspections and maintenance. Neglecting them can lead to equipment failure, downtime, or worse—serious safety risks.

At MEYER, we know how important oilfield inspections are in keeping your operation running smoothly. Here’s a quick guide to help you understand what a proper oil and gas equipment check should include.

Why Routine BOP Inspections Matter

BOPs face extreme conditions every day. High pressure, abrasive drilling fluids, and constant mechanical stress can wear down seals, rams, and hydraulic components over time. A regular and comprehensive oil and gas equipment check will help catch these problems early, ensuring compliance with industry regulations and preventing costly shutdowns.

Routine maintenance extends the life of your equipment and reduces the risk of unexpected blowouts, which can threaten your crew and your operation.

What to Look for in a BOP Inspection

A thorough oil and gas equipment checklist for BOPs should include:

1. Visual Inspection

Before running any tests, do a full visual inspection of the unit. Look for:

• Corrosion or cracks on the exterior body
• Damaged or worn seals around hydraulic connections
• Loose or missing bolts on key components
• Leaks in hoses, fittings, or accumulator systems

Spotting visible damage early can prevent bigger issues down the road.

2. Pressure Testing

A BOP that can’t hold pressure is a major hazard. To meet API 16A standards, pressure testing must be performed at 1.5x the working pressure of the BOP. Routine oil and gas equipment checks should include:

• Low-pressure tests (200-300 psi) to check for minor leaks
• High-pressure tests following API specifications, conducted at 1.5x the rated working pressure to verify system integrity
• Accumulator pressure tests to ensure emergency backup systems meet API 16D requirements

Testing under controlled conditions helps prevent failures during high-risk operations.

3. Functional Testing

Once the pressure tests are complete, it’s time to check how the BOP performs:

• Ram and annular function tests: Ensure closing and sealing mechanisms work properly.
• Hydraulic system evaluation: Verify that valves, pistons, and accumulators respond as expected.
• Backup system activation: Test emergency systems to confirm they engage without delay.

A fully functional BOP is critical to maintaining control in emergencies.

How Often Should You Inspect a BOP?

Sticking to a regular maintenance schedule is the best way to avoid unexpected failures. Recommended inspection intervals include:

• Daily: Basic visual checks for damage or leaks
• Weekly: Functional testing of rams and annular preventers
• Monthly: Full pressure tests to confirm sealing integrity
• Quarterly: Complete teardown inspections for deep component analysis

Following these intervals ensures your equipment stays compliant with API standards and is ready for action.

Let MEYER Handle Your BOP Inspections

Regular inspections keep your operation safe, but they also take time and expertise. That’s where MEYER comes in. Our BOP maintenance services help ensure your equipment meets API 16A, 16D, and Q1 standards. We provide:

• Certified BOP inspections
• Full-service BOP repair
• Aftermarket BOP control systems
• Replacement parts and upgrades

We take the guesswork out of oilfield inspections so you can focus on the job.

Schedule Your BOP Inspection with MEYER

Keeping your BOP in top shape isn’t just a recommendation—it’s a necessity. Don’t wait until a problem arises. 

Contact MEYER today to schedule a professional oil and gas equipment check and make sure your equipment is field-ready when you need it most.