By Utilizing known rig data and a series of formulas (in which part are rules of thumb) kick tolerance

can be calculated for calculated for several what-if situations. A leakoff test sometimes leads to false security unless the size kick is considered. Kick size greatly affects control capability and in fact it is the number one limitation to control capability. The size kick a drilling crew allows is a direct reflection of motivation and well control awareness of rig personnel and places a high priority on rig selection. When kick rolerance, based on a realistic kick size, is calculated to be below one pound per gallon (1 ppg) an operator may consider running casing to present lost circulation ( the greatest associated problem to well control)

To evaluate kick tolerance choose two or three hypothetical pit gains and calculate DC annular volume (formulas), evaluate wheter the kick is large enough to cover the drill collars and part of the drill pipe or not. Afer making this determination