The flushing is in advance of a pressure test procedure that will study the well’s BOP stack and sealing cap under ambient conditions.

Following the flushing, the sealing cap’s blind shear ram will be closed and BP will conduct an ambient pressure test to reassure that the well is secure that will be conducted over a 48-hour period.

The test mimics twice the time estimated to remove the original BOP and replace it with the Transocean Development Driller II (DDII) BOP.

In anticipation of a successful test, and as directed by the National Incident Commander, the DDII is preparing its BOP for further use on the MC252 well.

In doing so, a storm packer will be set in the DDII well prior to moving off the second relief well site.