How Granite Creek Energy Achieved Compliance Excellence with Veriforce

The Challenge

Maintaining High Standards in a Complex Regulatory Environment

Granite Creek Energy (GCE), an upstream oil and gas producer operating in the northern Rockies, faced a critical challenge when inheriting DOT-regulated assets from a previous operator. As a small operator, GCE’s team was required to manage multiple tasks while ensuring compliance with stringent regulatory requirements. With their sights set on maintaining ambitious standards in the industry, GCE needed a reliable partner to simplify the complex Operator Qualification (OQ) program.

Transitioning from the previous operator’s processes presented additional challenges. It was essential for GCE to seamlessly carry over existing compliance data and practices while upholding regulatory expectations. Without an effective system, the risk of non-compliance and potential enforcement loomed large.

The Veriforce Solution

Streamlining Compliance with Tailored Support and Advanced Tools

To address these challenges, GCE turned to Veriforce as their OQ program provider, building on the success the previous operator had experienced with the platform. Veriforce’s solution offered:

• User-Friendly Platform: A straightforward website that allowed GCE to manage compliance requirements efficiently both in the office and in the field.
• Proactive Support: Reminders of upcoming deadlines and excellent communication ensured that no requirement was overlooked.
• Customized Processes: Veriforce introduced new features and enhancements to make data management seamless, meeting the unique needs of GCE’s small team..

The transition process was smooth, with most compliance elements carried over from the previous operator. Minor updates, such as re-taking evaluator tests, were handled efficiently. Veriforce’s clear communication and prompt issue resolution ensured that GCE had all the tools necessary to maintain compliance and achieve operational efficiency.

Results

A Model of Compliance Excellence

Granite Creek Energy’s partnership with Veriforce yielded outstanding results, most notably:

• Zero Enforcement Actions: GCE successfully passed a PHMSA Integrated Audit in 2023 with zero enforcement and no areas of concern.
• Improved Efficiency: The Veriforce system allowed GCE’s small team to manage complex compliance tasks effectively without compromising other responsibilities.
• Enhanced Confidence: GCE’s operators now have access to an intuitive system that provides the confidence needed to meet regulatory expectations consistently.

Michael Hooper, FBPL Operator at GCE, expressed his satisfaction with the Veriforce solution:
“Being a small operator, it is inherently difficult to keep and maintain high standards in the industry. Veriforce has simplified that process for us by providing an easy to manage website, excellent communication and support, and sending reminders for all requirements that are nearing deadlines. Veriforce continues to add new options and processes to make data more easily managed both in the office and the field. This is highly important to us as single individuals are required to complete multiple tasks on a regular basis.”

Lessons Learned

Best Practices for Ongoing Success

The seamless transition from the previous operator highlighted the importance of continuity and a well-designed system. Key takeaways include:

• Familiarity with the Platform: Regular use of the system ensures that all team members remain adept at navigating its features.
• Proactive Communication: Veriforce’s responsive support played a pivotal role in resolving challenges promptly and maintaining compliance.
• Collaboration for Success: The strong partnership between GCE and Veriforce facilitated tailored solutions that met the unique needs of a small operator.

Looking Ahead

GCE plans to continue leveraging Veriforce’s tools and support to sustain compliance excellence and drive operational growth. With Veriforce as a trusted partner, GCE is well positioned to achieve its strategic objectives while maintaining the highest standards in the industry.