Definition
NORSOK — NORSOK is a body of standards developed by the Norwegian petroleum industry to define safety, quality, materials and operational requirements for offshore oil and gas activities, widely referenced for drilling, tubulars and material selection on the Norwegian Continental Shelf and beyond.
Also known as: NORSOK, NORSOK standards, Norwegian shelf standards
What NORSOK is
NORSOK (Norsk Sokkels Konkurranseposisjon) standards were developed by the Norwegian petroleum industry to ensure adequate safety, value creation and cost-effectiveness, and to replace or complement individual company specifications. They cover a broad range of disciplines — materials, welding, drilling and well operations, HSE, and technical requirements — and are administered under Standards Norway.
For tubular and downhole equipment, NORSOK material standards (such as the M-series covering materials selection and corrosion-resistant alloys) are frequently invoked alongside NACE MR0175 / ISO 15156 for sour and corrosive service, and its well-operation standards (D-series) inform drilling and well-control practice on the Norwegian Continental Shelf.
Where NORSOK applies
- Materials selection — corrosion-resistant alloys and sour-service requirements.
- Drilling and well operations — well integrity and operational practice.
- Quality and documentation — traceability and certification expectations.
Although developed for Norway, NORSOK standards are referenced internationally as a rigorous benchmark.
Why it matters for rentals
Operators working to NORSOK often require rental equipment documented to matching material and quality standards. See our drill pipe and quality program, or contact us to confirm compliance with your specification.