During a hard shut-in, what should be done with the choke?

During a hard shut-in, it is crucial to close the choke in order to effectively manage well pressure and prevent any uncontrolled flow of fluids. Closing the choke helps to contain the pressure within the wellbore and minimize the risk of a blowout or other hazardous situations. This is essential for maintaining well control and ensuring the safety of the personnel and environment around the well.

Keeping the choke closed prevents the escape of reservoir fluids that can lead to an uncontrolled release or blowout. By doing so, the well operator can monitor the pressure buildup and take necessary actions based on the information gathered from pressure checks.

While other options may seem plausible, they do not prioritize safety and effective management of well pressure in the same manner as closing the choke does. Therefore, the decision to close the choke is a standard and vital practice during a hard shut-in scenario.