What happens to the choke during a hard shut-in procedure?

During a hard shut-in procedure, the choke is closed immediately. This action is crucial for preventing the uncontrolled flow of formation fluids from the well. A hard shut-in is performed in response to situations where there is an imminent threat to safety or equipment, such as a blowout or significant influx of formation fluids. By closing the choke right away, control over the well is established quickly, which helps to minimize the risk of further escalating any hazardous conditions.

Adjusting the choke manually can add unnecessary delays and increase the risk of losing control of the well, which is why it is important to close it immediately during this procedure. Leaving it open or unattended would allow for uncontrolled flow, posing serious risks to personnel and the environment.