Pre-commisioning Safety Video – BHP

The Problem

The Macedon Project Team needed an induction that could serve during pre-commissioning and later be adapted for ongoing operations. Traditional static inductions would have required costly rework or repeated site visits as the plant developed, creating inefficiencies and limiting flexibility.

The Solution

To meet these requirements, SHIIFT delivered a highly adaptable induction package that addressed both the immediate and long-term needs of the project:

• Developed a modular induction structure, allowing sequences to be swapped out as the project advanced.
• Used detailed 3D animation to demonstrate processes and safety procedures and explain the oil and gas site’s infrastructure.
• Created content that supported both pre-commissioning and full operational phases.
• Delivered consistent messaging across onshore, offshore, and office inductions.
• Produced a scalable model that became the foundation for a wider suite of BHP inductions.

What is the Pre-commissioning Phase in Oil and Gas?

The pre-commissioning phase takes place after construction is completed but before the facility is put into operation. Its purpose is to ensure that every piece of equipment, system, and component is ready for start-up. Activities include mechanical completion checks, cleaning and flushing of pipelines, pressure and leak testing, calibration of instruments, electrical continuity tests, and verifying that all systems meet design specifications. By identifying and resolving issues early, pre-commissioning reduces safety risks, prevents costly delays, and ensures a smoother transition into commissioning.

Typical pre-commissioning activities include:

• Cleaning, flushing, and drying of systems.
• Pressure testing and leak checks.
• Calibration of instruments and electrical verification.
• Mechanical inspections and completion checks.

What is the Commissioning Phase in Oil and Gas?

The commissioning phase begins once pre-commissioning is complete. It involves starting up systems, introducing process fluids, and verifying that the plant operates safely and according to design. Commissioning ensures that individual units function properly and that integrated systems work together as expected. Activities include energizing equipment, testing control systems, conducting safety and interlock checks, and running performance tests. The end result of commissioning is a facility that is fully operational, safe, and ready for handover to the operations team.

Typical commissioning activities include:

• Energizing equipment and systems.
• Introducing process fluids and verifying flow.
• Functional testing of control logic and safety interlocks.
• Performance testing under operating conditions.

How Training Differs Between Pre-commissioning and Commissioning

Training requirements vary depending on the phase. During pre-commissioning, training focuses on familiarizing teams with procedures such as inspections, testing, and safe verification methods. Workers need to understand how to identify and resolve issues before systems go live. In the commissioning phase, training shifts to operational readiness. Personnel must learn how to safely start up equipment, manage process fluids, monitor control systems, and respond to alarms or performance issues. In short, pre-commissioning training prepares teams for safe preparation and verification, while commissioning training equips them for real-time operations under live conditions.