2018 Sustainability Report by Whiting

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L E ADIN G

TH E

WAY

2018 SUSTAINABILITY REPORT

“Our plan to build an enduring company with a boundless future includes integrating sustainability planning and reporting as a key component of our strategy.” —Brad Holly Chairman, President & CEO

Dear Stakeholders, Whiting continues to build on its commitment to sustainability planning, reporting and execution. In this, our second annual sustainability report, you will see increased transparency, tangible progress and a strong resolve to advance key initiatives. With a clear roadmap anchored in a set of 26 key initiatives established in 2017, our team has progressed across multiple areas while continuing to champion positive change at an industry level. This report further enhances how we communicate this progress as it continues to index to multiple reporting frameworks to include GRI, SASB and IPIECA. In 2018, Whiting initiated a formal governance structure around the company’s sustainability reporting and practices. An internal sustainability committee began interfacing with management and the board to ensure Whiting continued to move toward best in class disclosure, engagement and implementation of our sustainability program. The board provided further guidance and support in achieving excellence across our four pillars of sustainability: Governance, Environment, Health and Safety, Social and Communities. Creating a sustainable company has always been a foundation of Whiting’s vision. In 2018, that commitment was further exemplified as we created Whiting’s Values. Our values were carefully crafted from the thoughtful engagement of nearly 40 Whiting employees who served on the Whiting Values Task Force. Their charge was to identify a positive set of values to provide the foundation for how we work, interact, manage and lead at Whiting. We believe these values are reflective of the highest standards of integrity, accountability, performance and empowerment we demand from ourselves and expect of each other. As challenges to our industry grow, our dedication to our people, the communities where we live and work, and the environment we all value and enjoy only increases. Now more than ever, we must work together with all of our stakeholders to deliver business excellence built on a sustainable foundation anchored by Whiting’s core values. Our commitment to transparent sustainability reporting is unwavering. I remain honored and privileged to lead in ESG and share our success with you. Bradley J. Holly

WHITING VALUES

HIGHEST INTEGRITY

ENGAGED LEADERSHIP

BUSINESS EXCELLENCE

Exhibiting the highest ethical standards.

Leading, serving and inspiring others.

Achieving operational excellence.

EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATION

MEANINGFUL STEWARDSHIP

SAFETY ALWAYS

Exchanging information in a purposeful and productive way.

Preserving our environment and enriching our communities.

Protecting people, property and communities.

ABOUT WHITING Whiting Petroleum Corporation is an independent energy company focused on the exploration and production of the crude oil and natural gas critical to global prosperity and development. Our top tier assets, superior professionals, dedication to environmental stewardship and value-focused business execution position Whiting as an industry leader.

OUR APPROACH In this report, we provide descriptions of Whiting’s 2018

Reporting Standards

Sustainability performance regarding economic, governance,

Our sustainability reporting takes the following frameworks into

environmental and social issues. Our annual report, U.S.

consideration when developing our disclosures and identifying

Securities and Exchange Commission Form 10-K filing

metrics included in these disclosures:

and proxy statement detail our financial and governance

• The Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) Sustainability

information and can be found on our website at

Reporting Standards and Oil and Gas Sector disclosures

www.whiting.com/investor-relations

• The Oil and Gas Exploration and Production Industry

Whiting began integrating sustainability planning and reporting

Metrics from the Sustainability Accounting Standards

in 2016 with our initial disclosure of sustainability issues on our

Board (SASB) • The International Petroleum Industry Environment

website. In 2018, we contracted with a third-party to develop a more robust program that is indexed to several reporting

Conservation Association’s (IPIECA) Oil and Gas Industry

frameworks.

Guidance on Voluntary Sustainability Reporting

Materiality

Scope of Reporting

In 2017, Whiting completed a materiality assessment to

This sustainability report covers calendar year 2018 for the

identify the sustainability topics that are most important to

principal assets operated by Whiting and our wholly owned

the company and its stakeholders. Through engagement of

subsidiaries, including our North Dakota Williston Basin and

internal and external stakeholders, 26 sustainability topics

Colorado DJ Basin operations, unless specified otherwise.

were identified and prioritized. Based on our materiality

This includes our Williston and Denver- Julesberg basin assets

assessment, we found these issues were of highest

from January 1, 2018 to December 31, 2018.

importance to achieving success as a corporation. We plan to review and update this analysis regularly, and we will continue to revise our report content based on these analyses. 4

6 7

North Dakota Colorado Offices COLORADO 1 Corporate Office 2 Fort Collins 3 Redtail Office

OFFICES

Corporate Office

Fort Collins

Redtail Office

North Dakota Ofﬁces NORTH DAKOTA OFFICES

2 1

Colorado

TEXAS OFFICES 8

4 Williston Ofﬁce

Williston Office

Robinson Lake Office 6

Watford City Office

Dickinson Office

5 Robinson Lake Ofﬁce Watford City Ofﬁce

7 Dickinson Ofﬁce

Texas Ofﬁces 8 Midland

Midland 8

Texas 3

WHITING BY THE NUMBERS

TOTAL ACREAGE

TOTAL OIL PRODUCTION

TOTAL PROVED RESERVES

651,838

520.1

NET ACRES

HIGHER*

MMBOE

FEMALE MANAGERS IN CORPORATE OFFICE

EMERGENCY EVENTS ON A WHITING LOCATION

29%

2 6 M AT E R I A L S U S TA I N A B I L I T Y I S S U E S / TO P I C S GOVERNANCE

ENVIRONMENT

HEALTH AND SAFETY

Supply chain sustainability

Air quality

Employee and

Corporate governance

Biodiversity

Ethics, anti-corruption and

Hydraulic fracturing and

anti-bribery practices

chemicals management

Executive remuneration

Climate change

SOCIAL/ COMMUNITIES

contractor safety

Community engagement

Emergency response

Community health, safety

preparedness

and disruption

Health and wellness

Local employment

Process safety

and investment

Human rights

Land impact and remediation

Legal and

Greenhouse gas emissions

volunteering

Waste management

Diversity and inclusion

Water management

Employee engagement

regulatory compliance Risk identification and management processes

Philanthropy and

Training and development

*(128.0 MBOE/d in 2018, 118.1 MBOE/d in 2017)

C O R P O R AT E G O V E R N A N C E The highest level of Sustainability oversight resides with Whiting’s

All employees and directors of the Company must act with honesty

Board of Directors. Whiting’s Board of Directors has an Audit

and integrity in all matters. Day-to-day observance of this Code will

Committee, a Nominating and Governance Committee and a

create an attractive, healthy working environment for all employees

Compensation Committee, each comprised solely of independent

that is consistent with the Company’s core values and further build

directors. Committee charters and a list of our current Board members

on positive relationships with customers, suppliers and the public

can be found on our website.

at large.

For more on our Corporate Governance Principles, please visit:

To learn more about our Corporate Code of Conduct, please visit:

whiting.com/corporate-governance/governance-principles

whiting.com/corporate-governance/code-of-conduct/

Legal and Regulatory Compliance

Risk Identification and Management Processes

The oil and gas industry is subject to a complex regulatory framework,

A critical component of a sustainable business is its ability to identify

and Whiting has developed compliance systems and programs

and manage risk. We apply a number of key processes in our

to ensure compliance with all regulations. Our Regulatory Group

company that help to identify and mitigate risks in potential, new and

provides guidance, training, oversight, enforcement and reporting

existing operations. Our Board of Directors review and evaluate the

in order to support Whiting’s unwavering commitment to the highest

processes in place to assess the major risks facing the Company,

ethical standards.

and review management’s assessment of major risks, as well as the options for their mitigation. These processes help Whiting achieve

For additional discussion on these regulations and Whiting’s approach

operational excellence and evaluate investment opportunities. While

to compliance, please review our 2018 Form 10-K filing.

these processes are focused on our operated assets, we also review

Ethics, Anti-corruption and Anti-bribery

potential risks in Whiting’s non-operated assets.

In Whiting’s Code of Business Conduct and Ethics, we describe

For an in-depth discussion of Whiting’s approach to risk identification

the business conduct and behaviors we expect of our employees,

and management, please review our 2018 Form 10-K filing.

officers, directors and contractors. Any individual or company working

Executive Remuneration

on behalf of Whiting or our subsidiaries is expected to follow similar principles. Failure to comply with the Code of Business Conduct

The Compensation Committee of the Board periodically reviews

and Ethics and related policies, or applicable laws, may result in

and reports to the Board with respect to director compensation and

disciplinary action, including termination.

benefits. It also reviews and approves the philosophy, goals and objectives relevant to the CEO’s compensation, determines and

Whiting has well-defined and articulated standards and procedures

approves the compensation of the other executive officers, and

designed to prevent and detect misconduct. These standards,

administers our incentive compensation plans. Additional details

and specifically our Code of Business and Ethics and Personnel

about the roles and responsibilities of the committee are available in

Guidelines, include our comprehensive policies and standards. Our

our 2018 proxy statement.

annual review and acknowledgement of the code reinforces that all employees have a responsibility to report any suspected misconduct

Our success is based on financial performance and operational

or unethical or illegal activity. To facilitate this reporting, we maintain

results, and we believe our executive compensation program is

an ethics hotline. This 24-hour resource is externally hosted and

an important driver of that success. The primary objectives of our

managed by a third-party so employees and external stakeholders

program are to facilitate pay for performance, encourage creation

may anonymously report any alleged violations of law or Whiting’s

of long-term stockholder value and compensate our employees

policies and standards of conduct. All communications to the Ethics

competitively. The Compensation Committee periodically evaluates

Hotline are tracked and investigated by an internal team including

market-best practices in executive compensation programs to

relevant personnel from Human Resources, Accounting, Legal and

ensure it continues to provide balanced incentives, while

other departments, as well as the Board of Directors.

managing compensation risks appropriately in the context of our business objectives.

Ethics Hotline Number: 1-866-691-1972

Whiting’s environmental, health and safety (EH&S) performance is a key indicator of company performance. Understanding this, Whiting ties executive compensation to EH&S performance metrics.

Political Contributions Whiting participates in the political and public policy process in a responsible and ethical way that serves the best interests of our shareholders and the safety and wellbeing of our workforce and other stakeholders. Employees can support candidates for office through Whiting’s Political Action Committee (PAC), which is funded exclusively through voluntary contributions from eligible employees. The Whiting PAC contributes to federal and state political candidates who support responsible oil and natural gas activities and other business issues of interest to the company. Whiting is committed to complying with all applicable state and federal rules pertaining to lobbying and disclosures. Relevant reports regarding our activities are publicly available via the appropriate state and federal websites and the various state ethics commissions.

Climate Risk Whiting recognizes the increasing public concern around greenhouse gas and other air emissions and the heightened focus on their impact to air quality and global climate change. With this concern and focus comes the potential for new regulations, and Whiting’s forward-looking emissions minimization approach positions us well to adapt to an ever-changing regulatory landscape. We also recognize the important role oil and natural gas will play in meeting the country’s long-term energy demands as the diversity of energy sources continues to grow. Understanding our critical role in supplying affordable, reliable and efficient energy, we are committed to sustainable and responsible development of our oil and gas resources, and this commitment includes understanding and mitigating climate change risk. To that end, Whiting’s Board of Directors evaluates climate risk issues on a regular basis.

ETHICS HOTLINE NUMBER: 1-866-691-1972

Whiting is proud to announce its involvement in The Environmental Partnership and our continued dedication to learning, sharing and operating responsibly. The Environmental Partnership is made up of U.S. oil and natural gas companies committed to improving the industryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s environmental performance by sharing information on best practices, learning from peer companies and seeking new ways and ideas on how to operate effectively and efficiently. Learn more about The Environmental Partnership by visiting their website: theenvironmentalpartnership.org

ENVIRONMENT BY THE NUMBERS

2017 2018

10% REDUCTION IN GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS IN OUR DJ BASIN OPERATIONS FROM 2017 TO 2018

NO INCREASE IN HAZARDOUS AIR POLLUTANTS EMISSIONS FROM 2017 TO 2018

A 17% DECREASE IN TOTAL TONS OF CO2 EMISSIONS BY REDUCING FLEET SIZE

NEARLY 200% INCREASE IN THE NUMBER OF LEAK INSPECTIONS THAT DID NOT FIND LEAKS IN WILLISTON BASIN

36% REDUCTION IN TOTAL WATER USED FROM 2017 TO 2018

ENVIRONMENT Whiting is deeply committed to protecting the environment as we safely and responsibly develop our resources. This commitment is a key aspect of the Whiting Value of Meaningful Stewardship. At all levels within our company, we consider how our operations affect the planet and seek to reduce our environmental impact at every stage of our business. We also seek new and innovative ways to limit impacts on sensitive species and habitats, protect water quality and find alternatives to freshwater use, reduce the lifecycle methane emissions of our operations and engage our employees in waste reduction programs. We dedicate significant staff and resources to ensure compliance with environmental laws and regulations. To track our environmental performance and drive improvement over time, we use key performance metrics, factored into our annual compensation plan, at the asset and enterprise levels.

Industry Leadership Whiting is a leader in developing industry standards through peer group and agency cooperative efforts. Whiting actively engaged in the Colorado Storage Tank Work Group, a cooperative effort with the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, by developing storage tank design guidance documents and operating, maintenance and leak inspection guidelines to reduce emissions and minimize leaks from storage tanks. Whiting continues to participate in trade groups to exchange technical knowledge, promote innovation and drive successful emission reduction strategies. Whiting engages in the following organizations to support responsible development of oil and natural gas resources. • AXPC – American Exploration and Production Council • COGA – Colorado Oil and Gas Association • CRED – Coloradans for Responsible Energy Development • IOGCC – Interstate Oil and Gas Compact Commission • IPAA – Independent Petroleum Association of America • NDPC – North Dakota Petroleum Council • MPA – Montana Petroleum Association • TIPRO – Texas Independent Producers and Royalty Owners Association • UPA – Utah Petroleum Association • WEA – Western Energy Alliance

AIR Consistent with our overall commitment to environmental

Whitingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s growth and increased production in 2018 influenced

responsibility, Whiting seeks to limit and capture air emissions.

our correspondingly higher air emissions. From 2017 to 2018,

Whiting estimates the air emissions from our operations by using

Whiting experienced gas infrastructure curtailments and outages

state and federal emission estimation methodologies relevant to

that affected our emissions, forcing us to flare more gas than

the locations in which Whiting operates along with manufacturer-

we planned for. Whiting works with its midstream operators to

provided or EPA-required emissions factors.

develop additional infrastructure to alleviate the gas takeaway issues. We remain committed to maximize our gas takeaway, minimize our flaring and develop alternative innovative solutions.

Whiting complies with the federal Clean Air Act and companion state laws that regulate emissions of various air pollutants from industrial sources through air emissions permitting programs that require emission controls and reductions and that utilize monitoring and reporting requirements to demonstrate compliance. For example, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has issued New Source Performance Standards (NSPS) and National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAPs) to reduce the emissions of key pollutants such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs), nitrous oxide (NOx) and carbon monoxide (CO), as well as hazardous air pollutants (HAPs) such as benzene. Among other things, these standards require the application of reduced emission completion techniques (green completions) associated with the completion of newly drilled and fractured wells in addition to existing wells that are refractured. The rules also establish specific requirements regarding emissions from storage tanks, compressors, dehydrators and other production equipment. In complying with these effective requirements, Whiting significantly reduces the potential emission of its operations.

North Dakota Air Emissions per BOE Produced POLLUTANT

2017 EMISSIONS (POUNDS/BOE)

2018 EMISSIONS(1) (POUNDS/BOE)

NOx

0.04

0.05

0.11

0.14

VOC

0.21

0.27

Total HAPs

0.01

Table note: The table above summarizes Whitingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s estimated emissions of NOx, CO, VOC, and total HAPs per barrel of oil equivalent (BOE) produced in our North Dakota operations. (1) In 2018, Whiting experienced gas infrastructure curtailments and outages that affected its emissions, forcing the Company to flare more gas than it planned for.

Intelligent Pipeline Integrity In 2018, Whiting became a founding member of the Intelligent Pipeline Integrity Program (iPIPE), a collaboration of oil and gas operators and the Energy and Environmental Research Center. The focus of this effort is to advance of nearly-commercial, emerging technologies that prevent and detect natural gas pipeline leaks. Program participants are investing a total of $4 million over the next four years to research and test emerging technologies and encourage industrywide adoption of successful technologies.

GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS Greenhouse gases are emitted from the production of oil and

reports are made publicly available on EPA’s webpage

natural gas, from methane leaks that occur during production

at www.epa.gov/ghgreporting. We measure or estimate

and transport and from the ultimate burning of oil and natural

emissions of methane, carbon dioxide and nitrous oxide for

gas to produce energy. Whiting not only complies with the

multiple emission source types throughout the production,

requirement to track and report GHG emissions but is also

gathering, and processing segments. We measure GHG

working to reduce emissions across our operations.

emission rates for sources that use actual measured data in GHG emission calculations, such as reciprocating rod

To track and report GHG emissions, Whiting estimates

packing vents and gas plant equipment leaks. We estimate

emissions in accordance with the requirements of EPA’s

and report other GHG emission sources, such as equipment

Mandatory Greenhouse Gas Reporting rule (40 CFR Part

leak emissions in accordance with EPA’s emission

98). These emissions are reported to EPA annually, and

calculation methodology.

Reported GHG Emissions BASIN/FACILITY

2017 CO2e EMISSIONS (MT/YR)

2018 CO2e EMISSIONS(1) (MT/YR)

Williston Basin

1,504,565

2,639,566

Denver Basin

232,860

208,722

Permian Basin

32,260

36,575

Redtail Gas Plant

N/A

40,817

Table Note: The table above summarizes Whiting’s reported emission of carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e) in metric tons (MT). Note: 2018 was the first year that the Redtail Gas Plant exceeded the reporting threshold of 25 MMscfd annual average throughput (per 40 CFR 98.230(3)). (1) In 2018, Whiting experienced gas infrastructure curtailments and outages that affected its emissions, forcing the Company to flare more gas than it planned for.

In 2018, Whiting planted over 7,000 trees in Mountrail County, North Dakota to partially offset our carbon footprint. In addition to being a carbon sink, trees and forests are an important resource, providing watershed protection, wildlife habitat, recreational opportunities and protection for crops, soil and livestock. Currently about 1.8 percent of North Dakota’s total land area is forested but about 70 percent of North Dakota’s forest land is privately owned (source: www.fs.fed.us/nrs/pubs/ru/ru_fs104.pdf). This project brought Whiting, wildlife groups and private landowners together to create large-scale tree and shrub plantings on private land that will serve as habitat for future generations.

VEHICLE FLEET MANAGEMENT Whiting’s Vehicle Fleet Management is an integral part of our commitment to safe operations, environmental stewardship and operational excellence. In April 2017, Whiting implemented the Pedigree Technologies GPS Fleet Management System. It was fully operational throughout 2018 in 495 fleet vehicles in North Dakota, Montana, Colorado and Texas. The Pedigree system allows for greater visibility and transparency into the driving habits of our employees. With its data we can promote safe behaviors, fuel efficient driving practices, create accountability and determine improvements and trainings needed for each company driver. Creating a safer environment in the communities in which we operate and share the road is vital to our success and the safety of those around us. Whiting’s Fleet Management, Operations and Environmental, Health and Safety Departments work closely together to identify cost saving and efficiency opportunities, driver training needs and road hazard awareness. Whiting’s Fleet Management Program Successes from 2017 to 2018: • A 15% decrease in fuel (gallon) consumption • A 5% increase in miles per gallon economy • An 11% decrease in miles driven, reducing on-road exposure • A 17% decrease in total Tons of CO2 emissions by reducing fleet size, increasing efficiency • Promoting improved driving habits - reducing heavy acceleration events by 32%, hard braking events by 16% and speeding events by 30% • Reducing at-fault accidents by 42% from previous year

METRIC

2017

2018

% CHANGE

Average Number of Vehicles on Fuel Program

540

493

-9%

Average Miles Per Gallon

11.8

12.3

Number of Transactions

60,860

52,789

-13%

Total Gallons

1,138,987

970,641

-15%

Total Fuel Spend

$2,664,319

$2,669,717

Average Cost per Gallon

$2.34

$2.75

18%

Miles Driven

13,391,133

11,899,196

-11%

Average Miles per Month

2066

2011

-3%

Cost per Mile

$0.20

$0.2247

12%

Cost per Unit per Month

$411.16

$451.27

10%

Total Metric Tons of CO2 Emissions

9,900

8,419

-15%

Average Unit Pounds of CO2

40,406

37,482

-7%

**for each gallon of gas burned, approx. 20lbs of CO2 is released into atmosphere

Whiting led the industry by implementing FLIR camera inspection across our operations in 2010, years ahead of the regulations that now require these FLIR camera inspections.

LEAK DETECTION AND REPAIR (LDAR) PROGRAM Whiting is committed to minimizing methane and other

environmental staff and production staff are trained annually

hydrocarbon leaks across our operations. We conduct leak

on equipment, techniques, Standard Operating Procedures

inspections that meet or exceed the scope and frequency of

(SOPs) and best practices. Leak inspections are performed on all

applicable federal or state regulatory standards. As part of these

equipment and associated piping and fittings at subject facilities.

efforts, our staff utilizes optical gas imaging (i.e., forward-looking

Whiting responds expeditiously to repair any leak discovered. In

infrared (FLIR) camera technology) across all our operations.

all cases, leak repairs are re-inspected to ensure the repairs were successful.

Audio, visual and olfactory (AVO) and FLIR camera inspections are completed by a dedicated internal inspection team in the

For many facilities, this is more frequent than what is required by

Williston Basin, field operators in the DJ Basin and by our

applicable state and federal leak detection requirements. In other

environmental staff in other operating areas. In addition to our

operating areas where there are no state or federal leak detection

dedicated inspection staff, we also train field operators to spot

requirements, we conduct FLIR inspections at least annually.

and repair leaks during daily rounds. Our inspection teams,

ASSET DJ Basin

Williston Basin

AVO

FLIR

AVO

FLIR

Completed By

Field Operators

Inspection Team

Inspection Frequency

Weekly to Monthly

Monthly to Annually

Monthly

Monthly to Quarterly

PREDICTIVE ANALYSIS PROGRAM Our Approach to Reducing Equipment Leaks: Whiting collects information during these

• AVO and FLIR Inspections

• Equipment inspection

• Repair Work Orders

• Clean, repair or replace

leak inspection and repair activities. This information is reviewed as part of our Predictive Analysis Program (PAP) in the

• Re-monitoring

Williston and DJ Basins. We consider inspection results, repair trends, preventative Inspections

Preventative Maintenance

Lessons Learned

Analysis & Data Review

maintenance activities, operational conditions, environmental factors and facility and equipment attributes during crossfunctional team reviews. Where we identify recurrent issues in this review, we implement corrective actions as necessary. Through our evaluation, we are continually working to

• Continuous feedback loop

• Inspection data analysis

• Update PMs, inspections, design, construction, or operation

• Eﬀects of design, construction, operation

identify areas of focus where our efforts can drive improvement.

• Repair methods

Whiting’s peer-leading programs in LDAR and PAP have resulted in a reduction of the number of leaks and in enhancements to our repair and maintenance practices. The PAP program helped us incorporate better equipment and component designs that resulted in an overall reduction in emissions. Over the course of our inspection program, we have experienced significant improvement in the performance of our locations, as demonstrated by several key metrics from our Williston basin operations:

d90%

u200%

OVER 90% DECREASE IN THE TOTAL NUMBER OF ISSUES DISCOVERED DURING INSPECTIONS

NEARLY 200% INCREASE IN THE NUMBER OF INSPECTIONS THAT DID NOT FIND AN ISSUE

u400% OVER 400% INCREASE IN THE LENGTH OF TIME BETWEEN WHEN A PREVIOUS ISSUE WAS REPAIRED AND WHEN A NEW ISSUE IS DISCOVERED ON A RESPECTIVE TANK BATTERY

PREVENTATIVE MAINTENANCE Whiting has developed a robust routine maintenance program

has constructed multiple gas gathering systems and gas

to track and trend all maintenance concerns to resolution.

plants in areas that lacked this critical infrastructure.

This allows Whiting to target recurring maintenance issues

These investments increase Whiting’s gas capture rate

and enhance equipment reliability. Preventative Maintenance

and maximize the marketing of natural gas, reducing

(PM) is one of the key aspects of Whiting’s maintenance

potential emissions.

program, ensuring continued operation of our equipment. We have leveraged manufacturer recommendations, industry best practices and input from other sources, including our

In 2018, we expanded upon these efforts by strategically constructing 17 miles of additional gas gathering pipeline infrastructure to Ray Gas Plant where we also increased gas processing capacity with the addition of new compression.

inspection programs, to develop and influence our PM programs. Our PM plans target equipment critical to storage tanks emissions management in addition to other operational equipment. By properly maintaining equipment, Whiting realizes significant emissions reductions through proper equipment operation. Whiting continues to evaluate these PM plans for improvement opportunities.

LOW-EMITTING PNEUMATIC CONTROLLERS Whiting has implemented a policy to require that any

REDUCED EMISSIONS COMPLETIONS

equipment either purchased, replaced or modified must be

Whiting has implemented practices where drilling and

fitted with a low-bleed natural gas, no-bleed natural gas,

workover operations utilize techniques aimed at reducing

compressed air or equivalent pneumatic controller. Whiting

greenhouse gases by eliminating or significantly reducing gas

has eliminated high-bleed pneumatic controllers from its

vented into the atmosphere. The use of these techniques has

operations except where a high-bleed controller is required

reduced Whiting’s carbon footprint, pollutant and greenhouse

for safety or operational conditions. This policy greatly

gas emissions and natural gas vented or flared during

reduces our carbon footprint air pollutant emissions and

completions and workovers.

conserves valuable natural resources. Additionally, Whiting

FACILITY ENVIRONMENTAL INSPECTIONS

looks for opportunities to eliminate or control emissions from the remaining low-bleed pneumatic controllers by:

Whiting conducts annual comprehensive facility

• Routing their emissions back into the process,

environmental inspections. These inspections

• Routing their emissions to a combustion device,

assess compliance with Spill Prevention Control and

• Using electrically actuated controllers, or

Countermeasure (SPCC) and Air Quality related

• Using compressed air as the pneumatic source.

requirements. These inspections are designed to minimize

GAS GATHERING AND PROCESSING

or eliminate potential hydrocarbon releases and reduce environmental impacts.

Whiting has made significant investments in natural gas gathering and processing infrastructure to maximize

Periodic stormwater inspections are also conducted at

natural resource recovery and minimize natural resource

regulated facilities in an effort to identify liquid leak sources,

waste. Whiting works to capture and market natural gas

along with sediment discharge caused by stormwater runoff.

resources wherever feasible. In areas where Whiting has

Through these inspections, Whiting can anticipate failures

not established or contracted with a midstream company for

and make timely repairs of equipment. This practice also

gas gathering and processing, it is our practice to proactively

realizes an increased retention of land mass and protection of

create other solutions to process and transport natural gas.

the environment surrounding our operations.

To expedite natural gas capture, Whiting over several years

WATER Whiting understands and respects water as a limited natural

Since Whiting’s water needs, along with water sources, differ

resource and is committed to responsible water use. We

across our operations, the following sections describe our

recognize that our water use affects neighboring communities,

commitment to responsible water use in our shale play hydraulic

governments, businesses and industries, and we remain dedicated

fracturing operations.

to using water responsibly and effectively while developing energy

WATER VOLUMES USED IN WELL COMPLETION OPERATIONS

resources. Whiting strives to obtain fresh water from nearby water resources and minimizes water consumption by only using

Bakken Shale Play

the necessary volume of fresh water. Where possible, we utilize

When possible, Whiting reduces its freshwater use by substituting

pipelines to transport fresh water which eliminate the use of haul

recycled produced water and municipal wastewater for fresh

trucks and their associated emissions and road traffic.

water. The Water Strategies Committee is exploring expansion of

RESPONSIBLE WATER USE

produced water recycling.

To further our commitment to responsible water use, Whiting

DJ Basin Shale Play

developed a Water Strategies Committee in 2018 responsible for:

In Whiting’s DJ Basin, freshwater needs are met primarily by private,

• Increasing water use efficiency

non-tributary groundwater sources in Weld County, Colorado, due

• Evaluating water sources that have less of an impact on the

to the limited availability of surface water sources. All fresh water is

environment and communities

transported via pipeline to its end-use point, which has eliminated

• Investigating the viability of water recycling technologies.

approximately 28,000 water haul truck trips and their associated

The Committee is developing metrics to measure and assess

air emissions and traffic. Our water transported by pipeline is

our responsible water use. In addition, Whiting has partnered

estimated to reduce approximately 2,455 tons of greenhouse gas

with other industry members in the Energy Water Initiative to

and 15 tons of NOx emissions, each year.

study, describe and improve water use and management. These

The table below provides fresh and produced water usage metrics

efforts help us evaluate and reduce our impact to neighboring

for our Bakken & DJ Basin shale plays..

communities and the environment.

Whiting Water use for Well Completions YEAR

FRESH WATER USAGE (BBL)

MUNICIPAL WATER USAGE (BBL)

TOTAL WATER USAGE (BBL)

2015

27,723,187

3,119,107

30,842,294

2016

9,624,277

7,081,383

16,705,660

2017

37,841,970

5,645,475

43,487,445

2018

26,254,265

1,776,354

28,030,619

Whiting is a founding member of the Sakakawea Area Spill Response, LLC (SASR), which is a company composed of 17 oil, gas and pipeline operators in the upper Missouri River and Lake Sakakawea region of North Dakota. SASR members have agreed to share resources by collectively purchasing and maintaining equipment to facilitate a quick and comprehensive response to an open water spill. The goal is to minimize impacts to the area and protect local residents and the environment.

WATER USE INTENSITY Water intensity values should be put in context with respect to the baseline

baselines. The decrease in 2018 is a result

adverse effects from the injection process.

of “Right-Sizing” our completions, which has

In rare cases, the produced water can be

required less water per frac activity.

discharged for beneficial reuse. All disposal

production numbers, as well as the number

Per industry standard in Whiting’s operational

of completions in a given year. In years with

areas, nearly all of Whiting’s produced water,

few completions scheduled, water usage

as well as flowback water from hydraulic

will be lower while production numbers

fracturing operations, is disposed of via

may reflect modest growth or even modest

deep well injection. In these cases, water is

decline. In years with more completions

injected into porous geologic formations that

scheduled, water usage will appear higher

are permitted and regulated for this process.

while production numbers reflect higher

We leverage Whiting-owned, as well as third-

growth. Likewise, higher baseline production

party, injection wells for our disposal needs.

numbers are less impacted by increases

In all cases, injection rates and pressures

from new completions compared to lower

are closely monitored to ensure there are not

and discharge methods follow applicable rules and regulations.

Water Use Intensity YEAR

WATER INTENSITY (GAL/MMBTU)

2015

2.96

2016

1.94v

2017

5.09

2018

3.19

System. In addition, several individual programs exist to review and

PROTECTING WATER SOURCES

update all emergency response plans and processes as necessary.

Whiting is committed to responsible resource development and protecting all sources of water in the areas within which we operate. A

BASELINE GROUNDWATER SAMPLING PROGRAM

discussion of Whiting’s commitment follows.

Whiting evaluates and monitors pre- and post-drilling groundwater

SPILL PREVENTION AND RESPONSE

quality through its Baseline Groundwater Sampling Program. Prior to the well conductor being set, available water sources (e.g., stock

Whiting has developed a robust Spill Prevention, Control and

wells, drinking water wells and surface water features) are sampled to

Countermeasure (SPCC) Plan Program that provides personnel with

assess the baseline groundwater quality. Following hydraulic fracturing,

the tools necessary to efficiently and effectively prevent releases and

additional samples are collected from the same water sources to

respond to them if they occur. Strategically located spill response

evaluate if groundwater quality was affected by completion activities.

trailers throughout our drilling and production areas offer quick

Baseline groundwater sampling is required by law in Colorado and

response times to Whiting assets. Peer benchmarking studies show

is regulated by the Colorado Oil and Gas Conservation Commission

that Whiting is consistently below the industry average for spills.

(COGCC). In states that don’t require baseline groundwater sampling,

Whiting also prepares for potential incidents through rigorous

such as North Dakota, Whiting voluntarily implements our baseline

emergency response training and an effective Incident Command

groundwater sampling program.

WASTE Whiting has developed an effective waste management program

WASTE FACILITY AUDIT PROGRAM

in order to minimize our impact on the environment and to

Whiting’s Waste Facility Audit Program ensures the third-party

limit the risk and liability of handling and disposing waste. Our

waste disposal and treatment facilities we utilize meet our

corporate Waste Management and Minimization Plan and third-

standards. We perform independent audits, evaluating each

party audits of all disposal locations ensure that waste generated

facility to ensure that it operates within an acceptable level for

at all our locations is properly disposed of or treated. Whiting’s

each of the following standards:

waste management program is always evolving and looking for

• Compliance with applicable state and federal permits, laws

new ways to improve how we manage and dispose of our wastes

and regulations

and reduce the amount of wastes we generate.

• Implementation of Environmental, Health and Safety

WASTE MANAGEMENT AND WASTE MINIMIZATION

programs • Possession of adequate liability insurance

At Whiting, we believe waste minimization is the key to

• Maintenance of facility structural integrity

sustainable, environmentally conscientious and responsible waste

• Responsible operation and recordkeeping

handling. The waste minimization program encourages successful

• Adequate overall housekeeping

waste minimization techniques and plans, by assisting in finding source reduction and recycling options for all generated wastes.

These audits ensure all waste generated from our drilling,

Source reduction and recycling conserve our natural resources

completion and operational activities is disposed of or treated

and energy, save landfill space and reduce pollution. Together,

responsibly, which minimizes the potential liability and

reducing, reusing and recycling makes up a comprehensive waste

environmental risk associated with waste disposal and treatment.

and resource reduction strategy that benefits our environment,

DRILLING MANAGEMENT

communities and economy.

Whiting’s drilling operations are conducted with industry

Whiting has developed a corporate Waste Management and

standard practices and utilize drilling fluids designed to minimize

Minimization Plan to assist personnel with the storage, labeling

environmental impacts and optimize well control. When

and disposal requirements for waste generated during operational

possible, we employ water-based drilling mud systems, which

activities. Additionally, Whiting provides employees with waste

utilize biodegradable vegetable oils. Drilling fluids from these

awareness training to help identify, classify and properly handle

water-based mud system operations are separated from the drill

waste streams. These two programs reduce the risk and liability

cuttings for reuse in the drilling process.

associated with the handling and disposal of waste. As part of the

Whiting is committed to responsible drilling residuals management

awareness training, we actively challenge our operations teams

and reduction. Every drilling rig contracted by Whiting uses a

to look for alternative products that are cleaner and safer, while seeking efficiencies that will result in less waste generated.

closed loop system, which eliminates the need for open pits to

Whiting has also adopted a Waste Disposal Management

is disposed of or treated at facilities that are compliant with

store drilling residuals. All waste generated from drilling activities

Policy. Waste generated at all Whiting facilities must be properly

applicable laws, regulations and Whiting standards.

disposed of or treated at appropriately licensed and permitted

Where possible, drill cuttings are treated on location, in

facilities that meet Whiting standards, as identified through the

compliance with applicable laws and regulations. This on-location

Whiting Audit Program.

treatment eliminates the need to dispose of drill cuttings in landfills, reducing our environmental impact and eliminating air

emissions associated with truck hauling to landfills. These cuttings are treated and may be used in the interim and final reclamation of the pad.

NATURALLY OCCURRING RADIOACTIVE MATERIAL (NORM) MANAGEMENT During oil and gas production operations, naturally occurring radioactive materials (NORM) may be brought to the surface with produced fluids where, over time, they can accumulate in surface and subsurface equipment. Whiting is committed to responsibly managing the hazards and risks associated with NORM. We retain a Certified Industrial Hygienist and Radiation Safety Officer that supports all NORM-related activities involving risk of exposure to employees and contractors. This officer characterizes NORM exposure risks and identifies health and safety controls to reduce the potential for NORM exposure. Whiting also provides employees with NORM awareness and NORM surveyor training classes. To identify and manage NORM hazards, Whiting conducts initial and follow-up NORM assessments of our facilities. These NORM surveys are performed by trained personnel and are conducted on active production equipment and on inactive equipment and pipe slated for sale or disposal. Each Whiting production office maintains calibrated radiation detection equipment to conduct NORM surveys. When NORM is identified at a Whiting location, we ensure workers are aware of the risk and are adequately protected. Once we can verify the safety of our workers, we first apply engineering controls and preventive maintenance which are supplemented by administrative controls as necessary. Whiting also ensures the environmental risks associated with NORM are minimized by safely handling, storing, transporting and disposing of or treating NORM impacted materials.

belief, Whiting is dedicated to disclosing the chemicals used in

RECYCLING

our completion fluids. We provide a Hydraulic Fracturing Fluid

Whiting’s recycling program continues to grow on a company-

Product Component Information Disclosure Report for each of

wide basis. Our corporate office has an established recycling

our wells. Nearly 1,900 of these reports may be found on the

program and our field operations contract with local vendors

FracFocus website. In addition to the operator and the fluid

to recycle scrap metal. We have also implemented universal

content, each report identifies the API number, job start and end

waste recycling programs for fluorescent light bulbs, batteries

dates, state, county and well name. Whiting also works with all

and electronic waste across all our locations. Whiting personnel

vendors to report fluids used in hydraulic fracturing to FracFocus.

continually look to identify available equipment or parts for reuse. These practices combine to reduce the volume of waste we

LAND REMEDIATION

contribute to landfills.

Whiting is committed to sustainable land use in our operations.

HYDRAULIC FRACTURING AND CHEMICALS MANAGEMENT

We engage with government agencies and landowners in the early planning stages to formulate development plans that minimize impacts to the land and sensitive environmental areas.

Hydraulic fracturing has become a key element of oil and natural

Where possible, Whiting implements development through

gas development within the United States. Today, it is part of

multi-well pads, which allows for significantly reduced surface

the process of drilling and completing most onshore oil and

disturbances and environmental impact. At the end of the

natural gas wells. This well-stimulation method is a process that

completion phase, the well pad is generally reduced in size as the

has been used since the 1940’s to coax oil and gas out of tight

space allocated for temporary drilling and completions equipment

shale formations more than a mile underground. Currently, more

is removed. Thereafter, the area is ecologically and aesthetically

than 90% of all crude oil and natural gas wells drilled in the U.S.

reclaimed.

employ hydraulic fracturing. Although the injection process for each well typically lasts only two to three days, the well may

After the producing life of a well pad ends and the existing

produce for 20 years or more.

well(s) on a pad are plugged, processing equipment is removed (recycled, reused or properly disposed of in accordance with our

Hydraulic fracturing involves pumping a mixture of mostly

waste minimization practices), and the site is reclaimed to its

water and sand, and a small amount of additives, under high

original condition, including reestablishment of native vegetation.

pressure into the reservoir to create fractures, or cracks, in the rock formation. This increases the production rate and ultimate

Reclamation activities in the upstream oil and gas industry

recovery of oil and natural gas from a well. In combination

address and eliminate or minimize the impacts caused by the

with horizontal drilling, hydraulic fracturing makes it possible to

following:

develop shale plays that were previously uneconomic. In keeping

• Wells

with our commitment to environmental stewardship, we take steps

• Surface Facilities

to minimize the impacts from hydraulic fracturing by ensuring well

• Access Roads

integrity, conserving water, reducing air emissions from flaring and

• Flowlines

other sources, and managing waste responsibly. These robust

• Gathering pipeline

measures ensured that our hydraulic fracturing operations caused

Well plugging and facility reclamation is regulated by states and

no well integrity failures in 2018.

federal agencies, as applicable.

Whiting believes trust and transparency is essential to the continued progress of energy development. In furtherance of this

BIODIVERSITY Whiting understands that being a responsible operator includes taking proactive steps to protect biodiversity. Whiting has developed an informational program consisting of guide books that communicate the importance of awareness of the flora and fauna in the areas in which we operate and their inter-relationship with the natural world and the web of life. Informational brochures, complete with identification pictures, are distributed annually to personnel, contractors and field offices to help workers at Whiting locations identify threatened or endangered species. This guidance on how to avoid sensitive areas is vital to ensuring minimal disturbance to the wildlife around our operations. Links to Colorado Wildlife, North Dakota Wildlife and North Dakota Wetlands brochures can be found below.

Colorado Wildlife Brochure The Colorado Endangered & Threatened Species Protection Guide identifies both state specific listed and federally listed species. The brochure details how to avoid species conflicts and offers suggestions to Whiting employees, contractors and the public on what they can do to protect the wildlife and environment in which we operate. Species of interest in areas where Whiting operations are present includes the Plains Sharp-Tailed Grouse, Piping Plover and the Black-Footed Ferret.

North Dakota Wildlife Brochure The North Dakota Endangered & Threatened Species Protection Guide identifies federally listed species which, by default, are incorporated by the state of North Dakota to be included at the state level; North Dakota does not have a state-specific listing of T&E species. The brochure details how to avoid species conflicts and offers suggestions to Whiting employees, contractors and the public on what they can do to protect the wildlife and environment in which we operate. Species of interest in areas where Whiting operations are present includes the Dakota Skipper, Spragueâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Pipit and the Western Prairie Fringed Orchid.

North Dakota Wetlands Brochure Whitingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Guide to the North Dakota Wetlands presents an overview of the unique Prairie Pothole region of North Dakota. The guide identifies the type of wetlands that can be found in North Dakota and indicators of wetlands based on soil types, hydrology and indicator plants that have evolved to withstand extended periods of saturated conditions and occasional dry conditions. Educationally, the guide spells out why wetlands are important to unique wildlife habitat, flood control, groundwater recharge and recreational opportunities.

BIODIVERSITY PROGRAMS Whiting pursues activities to benefit biodiversity conservation

quickly discovered by waterfowl and shorebirds during

beyond required mitigation measures. As examples of these

their northwards, spring migration.

pursuits, Whiting has participated in the following Colorado

• Bird Conservancy of the Rockies Summer Camp

and North Dakota programs:

sponsorship – In 2018, Whiting assisted the Bird Conservancy summer field camp students by providing

• Prewitt Reservoir Wetlands Improvement – In 2018,

binoculars, day packs, tee-shirts and birdfeeders. The

Whiting collaborated with Bird Conservancy of the

summer camps are designed for children between the

Rockies, the Natural Resources Conservation Service,

ages of 5 and 17. All camp sessions are intended to

USFWS Partners for Fish and Wildlife, Ducks Unlimited

bring children outdoors, and the content and activities

and Colorado Open Lands to design and install irrigation

are designed in a progression to build scientific

control devices that manage surface water flow from

processes in nature observation and to gain insights into

irrigation canals to wetlands. The control devices allow

their relationships with themselves and the world around

the Prewitt Ranch, in consultation with the Federal

them.

Agencies and NGO, to seasonally raise and lower

• North Dakota Petroleum Council Planting for the Future

water levels between seven interconnected wetlands

Program – In May 2018, Whiting teamed with the North

to expand to 14 acres. The changing of the water

Dakota Petroleum Council (NDPC) in a project that

levels allows for cattails control and flooding of existing

planted 58,000 trees and shrubs across North Dakota.

grasslands allow for dabbling and diving waterfowl

The program is a partnership between the Outdoor

varying depths that best suit their feeding habits. The

Heritage Fund, Whiting and ONEOK, Inc.

project was completed in February 2018 and was

H E A LT H A N D S A F E T Y At Whiting, safety always is our core, foundational value. Protecting

high level communication and collaborate to drive safety and

the safety of our employees, contractors and communities will not

operational consistency. This taskforce engaged a third-

be compromised. We strive to create a culture of safety that pro-

party to audit workover rigs. Tragically, in 2018, there was a

motes transparency and accountability by providing the tools and

contractor fatality after an incident involving a workover rig on

resources that empower our people to identify and report potential

one of our locations. We deeply regret this loss and continue

hazards and stop work when necessary. We remain focused on

to work towards eliminating injuries and fatalities. Since the

working safer and smarter. Our goal is zero incidents, and we work

implementation of the taskforce, Whiting has seen an increase in

toward that goal every day.

incidents reported but a decline in the workover total recordable incident rate. This is evidence that what is identified, discussed

In 2017, Whiting developed a Workover Rig Taskforce. The

and implemented is having a positive impact.

taskforce consists of Senior Rig Supervisors, Operations

This effort allows Whiting to consistently and efficiently share

Superintendents, Engineering, EH&S and Workover Advisors.

safety resources across multiple areas among our contract

This team met 15 times to review and improve operations

partners.

within Whitingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s workover function. The team members review

Performance Summary YEAR

WHITING

CONTRACTORS

COMBINED

TRIR

DART

TRIR

DART

TRIR

DART

2018

0.49

0.24

1.06

0.46

0.91

0.40

2017

0.22

1.27

0.64

0.96

0.51

2016

0.53

0.44

0.70

0.16

0.64

0.27

2015

0.47

0.39

1.67

0.44

1.34

0.43

TRIR: Total Recordable Incident Rate. DART: Days Away, Restricted, and/or Transferred rate.

2018 ACCOMPLISHMENTS

IMPLEMENTATION OF A CONSULTANT ONBOARDING PROCESS

NEW, COMPREHENSIVE METHODS TO SOLICIT FEEDBACK FROM THE FIELD

THIRD PARTY MONTHLY INTERNAL RIG INSPECTIONS

IMPROVED MANAGEMENT OF LOE AND RIG FLEET SAFETY PROTOCOLS

MORE FLEXIBLE WEATHER POLICIES

DEVELOPMENT AND ROLLOUT OF LIFE SAVING RULES

IMPROVED COMMUNICATION WITH CONTRACT PARTNERS

COMMUNICATION OF SAFETY DATA SHEETS We communicate our health and safety performance expectations with our employees, contractors and the public to ensure that our decision-making process incorporates significant safety topics. An important aspect of this communications process is easy access Safety Data Sheets (SDS) for Whiting Products. Safety Data Sheets for the following can be downloaded at www.whiting.com/sustainability/health-safety: • Acid Gas • Butane

• Crude Oil (Sweet)

• Crude Oil (Sour)

• Natural Gas (Sour)

• Crude Oil (Sour)

• Natural Gal

Williston • Crude Oil (Sweet)

• Natural Gas

• Natural Gasoline

Condensate

• Produced Water

Williston

(Sweet) • Natural Gas

(Sweet)

Liquids (Sour)

• Natural Gas

Condensate (Sour)

(Sour) • Produced Water (Sweet) • Propane

Liquids (Sweet)

CONTRACTOR SAFETY MANAGEMENT OVERVIEW We focus on keeping employees and contractors safe and alert to potential hazards that could occur in the course of their work. At Whiting, work shall not be conducted at the expense of the environment, safety or the health of workers or the public, regardless of the operational urgency or importance. In order to meet this expectation, Whiting has established a robust and proactive contractor safety management program. Elements of this program include: • Safety Stand Down meetings with Whiting representatives • Communication to contractors of their right to invoke Stop Work Authority without fear of retribution • Contractor Safety Reviews and site inspections by operations and health and safety personnel • Clear communication of Whiting’s Key Expectations and Responsibilities for Contractors and Subcontractors • A requirement for contractors to review and understand the Whiting Safety Orientation Video that highlights Whiting safety requirements for contractors, sub-contractors and employees. This video is available in both English and Spanish. • Employment of ISNetworld to evaluate our contractors’ historic safety performance and ensure their health and safety programs meet regulatory requirements and Whiting policies. Contractor performance history is reviewed when brought on board with Whiting and periodically thereafter as long as the contractor continues to work for Whiting. Safety performance is a significant consideration in vendor selection.

2018 CONTRACTOR SAFETY MANAGEMENT HIGHLIGHTS: • Implementation of the Team Professional Services Alert program which ensures contractor and consultant Drug and Alcohol programs are compliant and standardized. This gives Whiting visibility of individual contract employee involvement and compliance with the program. At year-end 2018, 96% of required companies and consultants were either compliant or pending. • A focus on contractor Health and Safety Management systems and programs ensures contract companies and their employees comply with Whiting and industry requirements including: • Extensive on-site Contractor Safety Reviews or audits conducted in conjunction with operations personnel. • Implementation of a New-Contractor desktop program which ensures expectations are met for contractors working on Whiting locations. • Over 10,000 contract employees completed Whiting’s Online Contractor Safety Orientation. • Nearly 3,300 Contractor Field Safety Audits were completed by field personnel. • Nearly 3,000 Hazard Identification Reports were submitted that identified potentially hazardous conditions and behaviors in the field; • Of these, 237 Unsafe Actions were identified and corrected, and Stop Work Authority was utilized 132 times. • Health and Safety incidents and subsequent analysis identified 229 corrective actions. • Three Comprehensive Internal Health and Safety Audits were conducted at the Ray Gas Plant and two North Dakota operating areas. The primary objective of these audits was to assess the effectiveness of Whiting’s Health and Safety Management Systems and to evaluate compliance with applicable agency regulations and industry consensus standards. • Internal Emergency Response Training and Drills were conducted in all major field offices. Realistic fire scenarios were used to test the Whiting Incident Command System (ICS) to ensure communication, coordination and overall readiness for emergency situations.

WATFORD CITY TORNADO RESPONSE In July 2018, a tornado ripped through Watford City, North Dakota, killing a newborn baby and injuring more than two dozen people. The storm overturned recreational vehicles and demolished more than 100 structures. The National Weather Service (NWS) classified the tornado as an EF2, with wind speeds reaching 127 mph. Immediately, Whiting employees sprung into action. They helped clean up areas most damaged by the storm and prepared meals for those who were impacted. The help continued after the storm when the NWS identified that a hole existed in Doppler Radar coverage in Watford City. Whiting began working with the McKenzie County Emergency Department to address the issue. On Friday, August 10, 2018, two Whiting employees met with North Dakota Senator John Hoeven, Lt. Governor Bret Sanford and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration representatives to discuss the issue. Whiting offered to fund a new tower, but ultimately it was determined the issue was with the positioning of the current tower. By turning it 10 degrees, the hole in the doppler system was eliminated, and the problem was resolved. Whitingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s engagement made a meaningful difference and ultimately helped make our employees and the community safer.

Whiting and its employees are involved in many activities that

PROCESS SAFETY

promote public awareness within their local communities. Many of

We track our safety performance using industry metrics and work

our employees volunteer at their local fire departments and rescue

to continuously improve process safety across the company.

services. Additionally, Whiting employees take part in several

Whiting has developed a robust routine maintenance program

community outreach and agency sponsored “Community Right To

to track and trend equipment maintenance electronically in a

Know” programs. Examples include:

computerized maintenance management system. Proactively

• Annual Superfund Amendments and Reauthorization Act

managing equipment allows Whiting to target recurring maintenance issues and enhance equipment reliability, which,

(SARA) Title III Tier Two Reporting to State Emergency

in turn, reduces safety risk to employees, contractors and

Response Commissions (SERC), Local Emergency Planning Committees (LEPC), and Fire Departments

the public. By utilizing technology, we can manage critical safety equipment corrosion monitoring, inspection planning

• Annual SERC training for SARA Title III Tier Two Reports

and scheduling, work orders and remaining life calculation of

• Participation in quarterly LEPC Meetings

equipment. We have leveraged manufacturer recommendations,

• Invitations to LEPCs and Emergency Responders to participate in our ICS Drills

industry best practices and input from other sources, including

• Present, as subject matter experts, during public forums and

our inspection programs, to develop and influence our

safety conferences

Preventative Maintenance programs. Whiting continues to

• Facility tours for the public and state university students

evaluate these PM plans for improvement opportunities.

Organizations and activities Whiting employees are actively

EMERGENCY RESPONSE PREPAREDNESS

involved with to promote oil and gas awareness include:

Whiting’s EH&S practices, design standards and preventative

• SASR (Lake Sakakawea Area Spill Response,

maintenance programs are developed, in part, to prevent events

North Dakota (ND))

that may cause harm to the public, the environment and our

• Department of Emergency Services’ Hazardous

employees. Although prevention is key, Whiting recognizes that

Materials Conference

emergency situations do occur and that we must be prepared to

• North Dakota State Fire Conference

respond safely, quickly and effectively. Our response objectives

• North Dakota Industrial Commission

demonstrate Whiting’s ability to:

• Colorado Oil and Gas Commission

• Exercise “command and control” of the response;

• Weld County, CO. LEPC

• Minimize impact to people, property and the environment;

• Bureau of Land Management

and

• US Forrest Service

• Achieve continuous improvement of our response

• North Dakota Petroleum Council

capabilities through after-action reviews.

• 811 Call Before You Dig

Whiting’s Emergency Response Plan has established an incident

• North Dakota State Fire Conference

command structure (ICS), based on Homeland Security’s National

• North Dakota Safety Council Conference and Expo

Incident Management System (NIMS), as guidance for our

• National and Regional STEPS Network

employees to respond correctly during an emergency event. To

• National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health

ensure emergency preparedness, Whiting employees receive

• Occupational Safety and Health Administration

annual ICS roles and responsibilities training and participate in

Whiting has conducted facility tours for the following agencies

regional ICS drills to evaluate the overall effectiveness of our

and universities: US Forrest Service, South Dakota School of

response capabilities. For drills and actual events, Whiting uses

Mines, Montana Tech School of Mines, Colorado School of Mines

specialized software to manage documents and evaluate our

and North Dakota State University. These activities provide

response. In 2018, no events that occurred on a Whiting location

transparency to the communities where we work, operate and live.

were deemed emergency events. Therefore, we did not require the stand-up of an ICS Team.

Hygiene program has established a monitoring program

HEALTH AND WELLNESS

to assess employee exposure risk to benzene, organic

At Whiting, protecting the health and safety of our

vapors, hydrogen sulfide, noise, flammable atmospheres,

employees is paramount in sustaining a culture that values

silica and naturally occurring radioactive material (NORM).

caring for others, quality of work, productivity and company

Results from this program have allowed us to implement

pride. Our Health and Safety programs are designed to

engineering and administrative controls that either

guide employees in the recognition of hazards and the

eliminate or minimize the risks of exposure. This is an

assessment of those risks inherent to our industry. Through

ongoing program designed to identify new hazards and

Health and Safety training, we prepare our employees to

re-validate previous monitoring results. In 2018, Whiting

use industry best practices and consensus standards to

completed over 50 workplace exposure assessments.

mitigate risk in a manner that protects themselves, co-

These assessments validated that, with only one exception,

workers, the public and property.

Whiting’s engineering and administrative controls were

Whiting’s Health and Safety management system includes

effective in managing employee’s exposure to risk below

programs that address:

occupational limits.

• Employee exposures to hazardous substance

Occupational Health and Industrial Hygiene are specialized

• Risk assessment, hazard recognition and mitigation

components of the company’s overall Whiting EH&S

• Incident investigation practices designed to identify

program. The objective of this program is to manage health

cause

hazards found in the workplace. In the effort to reflect the

• Control of hazardous energies

risk assessment and risk management paradigm set forth

• Fire risk and protective measures

by the National Academy of Sciences, Whiting developed

• Contractor safety management

an occupational health risk assessment and management

• Selection and use of personal protective equipment

process. This process focused on identification, dose-

• Electrical safety

response and exposure assessment, risk characterization

• Working in confined space and communication of

and control of potential health risks in the workplace. The

hazards

Occupational Health and Industrial Hygiene Program

Recurring hands-on and classroom training ensures that

incorporates continuous evaluation of the production

employee proficiency and focus in safety performance is

process and related work activities to identify chemical,

maintained in the workplace and at home.

physical and biological agents, to which Whiting employees and contractors could potentially be exposed. Examples

Whiting’s Health and Safety Department works closely

of these agents are hydrocarbon gasses and vapors,

with industry peers, OSHA and NIOSH, to identify the

hydrogen sulfide, noise, silica, radiation and others. Whiting

chemical and physical exposure risks to our employees

utilizes published epidemiological and toxicological studies

and contractors. Our company has taken part in NIOSH

to set the maximum allowed exposure levels. Quantitative

studies and surveys to assess risks associated with tank

assessment and statistical techniques are used to identify

vapors, silica and general oil field safety. Our Industrial

potential exposure levels and establish adequate controls. 29

Retaliation against any individual who makes a report or participates

DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION

in an investigation is prohibited. Any employee who feels he or she

At Whiting, we believe our people are our greatest asset. We

has been retaliated against for making a report or participating in

recognize the advantages of a company culture that embraces

an investigation is encouraged to immediately notify the Company’s

diversity, continuous learning, servant leadership and an engaged

Human Resources department or the Company’s General Counsel.

workforce. We encourage open and transparent communication

Whiting will investigate all reports and take corrective action.

among our teams and strive to set the highest ethical standards.

EMPLOYEE DIVERSITY

Our commitment to diversity and inclusion goes beyond our

Whiting’s leadership team is mindful of ways to increase the diversity

compliance with all applicable equal employment opportunity laws.

of our workforce. At the end of 2018, Whiting had 736 employees

At Whiting, we do not allow unlawful discrimination or unlawful

across our operating areas. Overall, we believe our employee

harassment against applicants or employees. We recruit, hire,

demographic is typical for our industry. We strive to maintain a

promote and perform personnel actions without regard to race,

workforce that is diverse in age, and our corporate office in Denver

color, religion, sex, national origin, age over 40, disability, genetic information or any other applicable status protected by federal,

remains in line with industry trends for gender representation.

state or local law. We also comply with all applicable federal, state

Cultivating internal talent is a priority for Whiting. If a current

and local laws.

employee is interested in a different position within the company, we encourage them to contact their supervisor and submit a request to

We make reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals

Human Resources. Whiting reserves the right to hire anyone for any

with known disabilities and employees whose work requirements

position, including external candidates. Candidates identified both

interfere with a religious belief, unless doing so would result in

internally and externally are assessed based on performance, relevant

an undue hardship to the Company or a direct threat. Employees

business knowledge and skillset.

needing such accommodation are instructed to work with Human Resources.

COUNT OF WORKFORCE

% OF WORKFORCE

538

73%

206

38%

Female

47%

Male

109

53%

If an employee has a work-related problem or concern, they are Individual Contributor

encouraged to follow these resolution steps:

Corporate

• Discuss the issue with their supervisor in a timely manner, usually within three to five working days. • If a resolution is not reached with the supervisor or if the

Field

issue is with the supervisor, discuss the situation with their department manager in a timely manner, usually within five to seven working days. • If the problem is not resolved to an employee’s satisfaction at

332

62%

Female

12%

Male

293

88%

198

27%

Corporate

47%

Female

29%

71%

104

53%

Manager

that level, they are encouraged to communicate the problem directly to the Human Resource Department, the V.P. of their department and/or another member of senior management.

Male

• Should further resolution be required, the CEO will make the final

Field

determination. Any employee who witnesses violations of our guidelines is instructed to report the incident to the Company’s Human Resources department or the Company’s General Counsel. The Company will investigate all reports and take corrective action.

Female

Male

95%

Females in Corporate Office

124

41%

Grand Total

736

100%

Additionally, Whiting has an Ethics Hotline for the purpose of allowing all employees an avenue for confidential, anonymous

Percentage of employees in major age brackets:

submission of concerns. If for any reason an employee is uncomfortable using the procedures outlined above, this hotline

30 YRS OR LESS

31-40

41-50

51-60

61-64

65+

provides a method of reporting ethical concerns through a

16.44%

37.23%

21.74%

16.85%

5.16%

2.58%

confidential and anonymous third-party system. The Ethics Hotline may be accessed by calling 1-866-691-1972.

TRAINING

EMPLOYEE ENGAGEMENT

Whiting is committed to the personal and professional

Effective Communication is a core value at Whiting. Sharing

development of its employees. Through a comprehensive

information with our employees and seeking feedback about

approach, we empower our employees to develop the skills

our business, culture and opportunities for improvement

they need to perform their current jobs while developing

drives growth. We utilize performance reviews, surveys, town

leadership acumen for future opportunities. We understand

halls and small group meetings with the CEO to engage our

a greater level of knowledge, skill and ability related to job

employees. We also utilize the company intranet and safety

responsibilities benefits the employee and the company. We

meetings in the field to share information and connect with

work to support our employees by offering generous tuition

employees in a timely and meaningful manner.

reimbursement and training and seminar opportunities.

In 2018, Whiting conducted an employee engagement survey

In 2018, Whiting embarked on a companywide leadership

facilitated by a third-party. Over 90% of Whiting employees

training program, WLL LEAD. The goal of WLL Lead is to

responded to this survey, which is substantially greater

foster more effective leadership throughout the organization

than most companies. Employees provided comments

and to help drive increased employee engagement.

and answered questions relating to the improvement of our

Employees in the program receive classroom training every

culture and company. While the survey results are not publicly

six weeks and most work with an executive coach, whom they

available, Whiting has made significant improvements across

meet with one-on-one every month. The inaugural WLL Lead

the company based on our employee feedback. Throughout

program graduated approximately 90 employees in 2018.

the year, we improved our benefits plan, created flexible

We continue to see an immediate difference in leadership

work schedules, made improvements to our communication

within our teams and that translates into a positive impact on

strategy and provided enhanced training opportunities.

business dynamics.

We also redesigned our employee appraisal process to improve performance evaluations, incentivize personal

In addition to the WLL LEAD program, Whiting recently

and professional achievements and reward contributors for

implemented a new Learning Management System (LMS) and is currently sourcing content to populate it. This content will

organizational accomplishments.

cover topics from technical training to soft skills. Furthermore,

Whiting will continue to survey its employees to ensure

our managers can use this tool to increase employee

appropriate engagement. Whiting understands that

engagement and productivity. In 2018, our employees

employee engagement changes rapidly and that we must be

spent more than 560 hours training on this new Learning

dynamic in our approach to overall employee engagement.

Management System.

SOCIAL At Whiting, community engagement is integral to our identity

responsibly produce energy, while working to reduce

as a company and individuals. Employees selected Meaningful

our impact on the environment and to conserve natural

Stewardship as one of Whiting’s core value because the way

resources. During emergencies and natural disasters,

we interact with our communities is what sets Whiting apart. We

we provide assistance to community relief agencies, and

want to enhance the quality of life in our communities, making

we are trained and prepared to support our communities

each one a healthy, safe and eminently livable place. In 2018,

as needed. • Community—We believe it is our social responsibility to

Whiting invested more than $1,000,000 and 5,500 volunteer hours in our local communities.

meet the needs of the communities in which we operate and live. By listening to our employees, we are able

Our growing community commitments are a direct reflection

to focus on supporting local initiatives that make our

of our culture, driven by the needs of our employees and with

communities healthy, safe and livable.

a focus in these key areas:

OUR APPROACH

• Education—Developing a sustainable workforce is

Throughout the year we assess the effectiveness of our

a high priority at Whiting. Education and workforce

social investment approach. This process allows us to

development are key components of our social

collaborate, identify best practices and align our social

investment. We contribute annually to education, from

investment with the areas of greatest community need. We

elementary schools to higher education programs. By

accomplish this by:

supporting these institutions, we are helping to create a pipeline of students that can be the next generation of

• Seeking out community partners

energy professionals.

• Communicating openly and including our partners in the design and implementation of the engagement process

• Health & Safety—Safety Always is our core value. We

• Seeking solutions that create mutually beneficial business

strive to protect and improve the health and safety of our

and engagement approaches and build long-term value for

employees and the communities where we work and live.

both the company and our community partners

• Environmental and Disaster Relief—Our operations

• Following through on our commitments

have a significant connection to the environment. Protecting the land, air and water is paramount. We

communities through involvement in their municipalities,

VOLUNTEERING

school systems and sports programs.

Our employees make the difference. In 2018, more than 700 Whiting employees volunteered 5,500 hours in local

PHILANTHROPY

communities within our operating areas. We encourage and

At Whiting, we strive to strategically invest in the communities

recognize employee volunteerism in several ways:

where we live and work. We know our employees and their

1. Each employee receives 16 hours of paid time annually

gifts make communities stronger. Whiting’s community

to volunteer during business hours at the non-profit of

investments support education, health and safety, natural

their choice, either at events hosted by their office or by

resources, social services and disaster relief.

the partner organization.

ENERGY EDUCATION

2. Community Relations representatives work to create

Creating the energy professionals of tomorrow is a high

volunteer opportunities for employees or connect

priority at Whiting. We make consistent investments to

them with volunteer opportunities hosted by Whiting’s

the universities we recruit from the most. We also support

community partners.

local school districts in our operating areas. In 2018, we

3. Employees leverage our internal communications

partnered with the McKenzie County School District to help

platform to find volunteer opportunities, sign up to

create a technical and career academy for students. The

volunteer and share local opportunities by posting event

goal of the program is to meaningfully engage local students

details.

to showcase the professional opportunities in the oil and gas

Beyond volunteering for accredited non-profits, Whiting

industry in North Dakota.

employees are also encouraged to support their local

MCKENZIE COUNTY WORKFORCE TRAINING CENTER In 2018, North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum identified work force development as one of the top issues facing the state. By the summer of 2018, the Governor’s office estimated North Dakota had between 14,000 and 28,000 open jobs. As a result, he created a statewide taskforce to find ways to keep North Dakota students in the state by showing them the professional opportunities that exist at home. The McKenzie County School District Superintendent approached Whiting with an idea in the spring of 2018. Dr. Holen shared that nearly 2/3 of the McKenzie County High School seniors were not going on to a 4-year university. He wanted to create a program to meaningfully engage the students and show them other options. Whiting was the first company to offer to help. In 2018, Whiting committed $75,000 to get the program off the ground. Our employees helped the district develop the program’s curriculum and worked with students in the classroom, presenting information about our company and industry.

LOCAL CONTRIBUTIONS

EMPLOYEE PROGRAMS

In 2018, Whiting invested over $1,000,000 million into the

Our employees are our best asset and we want to support

communities where we live and work. Each Whiting office is

the causes they care most about. In addition to our corporate

empowered to make the biggest impact on their community. Local

gifts, we are proud to support their charitable gifts through our

offices receive budgets to support or create community events and

matching gifts program. Each year Whiting will match employee

each state receives a budget for large gifts.

donations, up to $2,500 annually.

MCKENZIE COUNTY HEALTH CARE CENTER Proactive community relations is the hallmark of our outreach program and our partnership with the McKenzie County Health Care Center is a great example. For years our employees voiced concern that they were unable to deliver children in McKenzie County, the heart of the oil patch. We know that in order to properly care for our growing and evolving community, expanding the continuum of healthcare is crucial. This includes a long-term plan to implement labor and delivery services. Whiting began working with the McKenzie County Healthcare System in 2017 to discuss the opportunity to bring obstetrics services back into the community. We discovered that obstetrics services havenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t been provided in McKenzie County for more than 30 years. While more than 200 babies were born to Watford City families in recent years, none were delivered there. Instead, families were commuting to other towns to deliver their babies, either by ambulance or driving themselves. Babies were often being delivered in homes or even on the side of the road because they couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t make it in time. We knew we wanted to improve the safety and wellbeing of the mothers and children in this community by bringing back this resource. In 2018, more than half of Whiting employees were under the age of 40. Whiting made an initial gift of $50,000 to underwrite the cost of one Labor and Delivery Wing at the McKenzie County Health Care Center. The gift allowed local mothers to receive all prelabor care there immediately.

with employees who live in the communities near our operations,

WHITING CORPORATE GIVING

for services on our locations. This local engagement has helped

Whiting considers grant proposals from non-profit organizations

Whiting maintain strong relationships with our employees,

within the communities we operate that focus on:

suppliers and communities that have become an essential part of

Guidelines

why and how we do business.

• The applicant is a 501 (C)(3) charitable organization or

Whiting screens waste disposal and injection vendors based on

political subdivision.

our Waste Management Program. Whiting additionally maintains

• The proposal seeks funds for an area where Whiting

Environmental Addendums (EAs) associated with our Master

Petroleum Corporation has a strong business presence

Service Agreements for generator and compressor rental vendors.

including facilities, assets or employees.

We screen contractors for safety related items via ISNetworld, an

• The request is not for an individual, religious organization or

online contractor and supplier management platform that manage

an endowment.

risk and reduces unnecessary duplication associated with

• A breakdown of relevant costs for the funding request

traditional vendor qualification processes. In 2018, Whiting began

is included.

using safety performance as a component in vendor selection.

To apply for a donation, please submit a proposal to

Also in 2018, Whiting piloted software designed to track vendors

donations@whiting.com.

movements and where they deliver waste. We plan to use this

HUMANITARIANISM

software to help select which waste vendors provide goods and services to Whiting and also to provide additional assurance that

At Whiting, we are dedicated to the health and safety of our

Whiting’s waste is handled properly.

employees, contractors and the communities where we operate, which is why we are proud to partner with Truckers Against

Since 2012, we have audited 82 Treatment, Storage and

Trafficking (TAT). TAT is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit created to educate,

Disposal Facilities (TSDFs) for compliance with state and

equip, empower and mobilize the trucking industry to combat

federal regulations and best management practices. Of those

human trafficking as part of their regular jobs. TAT also partners

82 facilities, 68 meet or exceed our minimum standards. Whiting

with law enforcement and government agencies to facilitate the

has also audited the Underground Injection Control (UIC)

investigation of human trafficking. We have engaged not only our

facilities used for salt water disposal. To date, Whiting has

employees, but also our contractors in our support of TAT. Whiting

audited 125 UIC facilities and 109 of those facilities meet or

will continue to help create awareness about the risks of human

exceed our minimum standards. We maintain Master Service

trafficking while working to keep the communities we work and

Agreements (MSAs) designed to hold vendors accountable

live in safe.

to regulations and Whiting specific safety and environmental standards above regulatory requirements in some instances.

SUPPLY CHAIN

Our suppliers currently operate under MSAs which may include

Delivering value through an integrated and collaborative approach

specific compressor and generator Environmental Addendums

to business planning and use of supply chain practices is key to

(if applicable). In 2018, Whiting screened 872 vendors for safety

our operations.

criteria. This criteria included historical safety performance

Whiting has developed strong procurement policies that allow us

data, insurance and health and safety programs. In addition,

to maximize value for each dollar we spend with our suppliers.

Whiting spent over $509 million with vendors who were selected

We leverage these policies to create savings and reduce supplier

considering safety criteria in 2018.

risk, while holding suppliers accountable. Whiting makes every

In 2018, Whiting began voluntarily removing tanks from service to

effort to competitively bid high-volume and frequently purchased

inspect and retrofit them with improved venting control features.

goods and services while consolidating awarded goods and

Instead of buying new tanks, Whiting removes legacy tanks

services over a period (e.g., quarterly, semi-annually). This

from existing battery locations, inspects each tank to prevent

practice helps support small, local suppliers and contractors by

environmental issues and retrofits them to enhance environmental

providing scheduling and financial certainty. These commitments

performance prior to deploying these tanks on new well sites.

can also help local suppliers with employee retention and

Whiting did not purchase a new tank during 2018, removing and

business planning. The remote nature of many of our operations

enhancing nearly 330 legacy tanks during the period.

encourages us to hire locally from reputable small businesses,

W H I T I N G R E P O R T I N G G U I D A N C E - D I S C LO S U R E R E F E R E N C E TA B L E

BACKGROUND This table is intended to demonstrate how Whiting may

•

identify the location of sustainability content that aligns to disclosures required by selected reporting frameworks. This table lists disclosures from: •

The Global Reporting Initiative Sustainability Reporting Standards (GRI Standards), and

•

IPIECA’s oil and gas industry guidance on voluntary

has been structured to identify where the reporting

sustainability reporting, and

requirements of the frameworks address similar content.

SASB’s Oil and Gas - Exploration and Production Standard

A number of the disclosures required by these frameworks address similar topic areas. The table

DISCLOSURE REFERENCE TABLE GRI STANDARD

IPIECA SUSTAINABILITY REPORTING GUIDANCE

SASB: OIL AND GAS - EXPLORATION AND PRODUCTION

LOCATION OF DISCLOSURE/COMMENTS

102-1 Name of organization

SR: Page 3

102-2 Organization's activities

SR: Page 3

102-3 Location of headquarters

Website: About Whiting

102-4 Location of operations

Website: About Whiting

102-5 Ownership and legal form

2018 Annual Report and SEC Form 10-K

102-6 Markets served

2018 Annual Report and SEC Form 10-K

102-7 Scale of organization

2018 Annual Report and SEC Form 10-K

102-8 Information on employees and other workers

SR: Page 30

102-9 Supply chain

SR: Page 35

102-11 Precautionary principle/approach

We evaluate identified risks and develop and implement mitigation plans.

102-13 Membership of associations

SR: Page 8

102-14 Statement from senior decision-maker

SR: Page 1

102-16 Values, principles, standards, and norms of behavior

SR: Page 2

102-17 Mechanisms for advice and concerns about ethics

SR: Page 5

102-18 Governance structure

SR: Page 5

102-29 Identifying and managing economic, environmental, and social impacts

SR: Page 5

102-30 Effectiveness of risk management processes

SR: Page 5

DISCLOSURE REFERENCE TABLE (Continued) GRI STANDARD

IPIECA SUSTAINABILITY REPORTING GUIDANCE

SASB: OIL AND GAS - EXPLORATION AND PRODUCTION

LOCATION OF DISCLOSURE/COMMENTS

102-35 Remuneration policies

SR: Page 5

102-36 Process for determining remuneration

SR: Page 5

102-37 Stakeholdersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; involvement in remuneration

SR: Page 5

102-43 Approach to stakeholder engagement

The frequency of our engagement varies by stakeholder and issue.

102-44 Key topics and concerns raised

SR: Page 3

102-45 Entities in consolidated financial statements

2018 Annual Report and SEC Form 10-K

102-46 Defining report content and topic boundaries

SR: Page 4

102-47 List of material topics

SR: Page 4

102-50 Reporting period

SR: Page 3

102-51 Date of most recent report

SR: Page 3

102-52 Reporting cycle

SR: Page 3

102-53 Contact point for questions regarding the report

SR: Page 41

102-54 Claims of reporting in accordance with GRI standards

SR: Page 3

102-55 GRI content index

SR: Pages 37-40

201-1 Direct economic value generated and distributed

201-2 Financial implications and other risks and opportunities due to climate change

SE4: Social investment

E3: Alternative energy sources

205-1 Operations assessed for risks related to corruption 205-2 Communication and training about anticorruption policies and procedures 205-3 Confirmed incidents of corruption and actions taken

SE11: Preventing corruption

SR: Page 33 "EM-EP-420a.1: Sensitivity of hydrocarbon reserve levels to future price projection scenarios that account for a price on carbon emissions EM-EP-420a.2: Estimated carbon dioxide emissions embedded in proved hydrocarbon reserves EM-EP-420a.3: Amount invested in renewable energy, revenue generated by renewable energy sales EM-EP-420a.4: Discussion of how price and demand for hydrocarbons and/or climate regulation influence the capital expenditure strategy for exploration, acquisition, and development of assets"

SR: Page 6

"EM-EP-510a.2: Description of the management system for prevention of corruption and bribery throughout the value chain"

SR: Page 5 SR: Page 5 SR: Page 5

DISCLOSURE REFERENCE TABLE (Continued) GRI STANDARD

IPIECA SUSTAINABILITY REPORTING GUIDANCE

SASB: OIL AND GAS - EXPLORATION AND PRODUCTION

206-1 Legal actions for anti-competitive behavior, anti-trust, and monopoly practices

LOCATION OF DISCLOSURE/COMMENTS SR: Page 5

EM-EP-140a.1: (1) Total fresh water withdrawn, (2) total fresh water consumed, percentage of each in regions with High or Extremely High Baseline Water Stress

SR: Page 15

303-3 Water recycled and reused

EM-EP-140a.2: Volume of produced water and flowback generated; percentage (1) discharged, (2) injected, (3) recycled; hydrocarbon content in discharged water

SR: Page 15

304-1 Operational sites owned, leased, managed in, or adjacent to, protected areas and areas of high biodiversity value outside protected areas

"EM-EP-160a.1: Description of environmental management policies and practices for active sites EM-EP-160a.2: Number and aggregate volume of hydrocarbon spills, volume in Arctic, volume impacting shorelines with ESI rankings 8-10, and volume recovered EM-EP-160a.3: Percentage of (1) proved and (2) probable reserves in or near sites with protected conservation status or endangered species habitat"

SR: Page 21

303-1 Water withdrawal by source

E6: Fresh water

E5: Biodiversity and ecosystem services

304-2 Significant impacts of activities, products, and services on biodiversity

SR: Page 21

304-3 Habitats protected or restored

SR: Page 21

305-1 Direct (Scope 1) Emissions

"E1: Greenhouse gas emissions E2: Energy use"

"EM-EP-110a.1: Gross global Scope 1 emissions, percentage methane, percentage covered under emissions-limiting regulations EM-EP-110a.2: Amount of gross global Scope 1 emissions from: (1) flared hydrocarbons, (2) other combustion, (3) process emissions, (4) other vented emissions, and (5) fugitive emissions EM-EP-110a.3: Discussion of long-term and short-term strategy or plan to manage Scope 1 emissions, emissions reduction targets, and an analysis of performance against those targets"

SR: Page 10

305-7 Nitrogen oxides (NOX), sulfur oxides (SOX), and other significant air emissions

E8: Other air emissions

EM-EP-120a.1: Air emissions of the following pollutants: (1) NOx (excluding N2O), (2) SOx, (3) volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and (4) particulate matter (PM10)

SR: Page 9

306-1 Water discharge

E7: Discharges to water

"EM-EP-140a.3: Percentage of hydraulically fractured wells for which there is public disclosure of all fracturing fluid chemicals used EM-EP-140a.4: Percentage of hydraulic fracturing sites where ground or surface water quality deteriorated compared to a baseline"

SR: Page 16

306-2 Waste type and disposal method

SR: Page 17

306-3 Significant spills

E9: Spills to the environment

306-4 Transport of hazardous waste

E10: Waste

307-1 Non-compliance with environmental laws and regulations

SR: Page 16 SR: Page 18 "EM-EP-530a.1: Discussion of corporate positions related to government regulations and/or policy proposals that address environmental and social factors affecting the industry "

SR: Page 5

DISCLOSURE REFERENCE TABLE (Continued) GRI STANDARD

IPIECA SUSTAINABILITY REPORTING GUIDANCE

SASB: OIL AND GAS - EXPLORATION AND PRODUCTION

308-1 New suppliers that were screened using environmental criteria

SR: Page 35

401-1 New employee hires and employee turnover

SE16: Workforce engagement

403-2 Types of injury and rates of injury, occupational diseases, lost days, and absenteeism, and number of work-related fatalities

HS3: Occupational injury and illness incidents

403-3 Workers with high incidence or high risk of diseases related to their occupation

HS2: Workforce health

SR: Page 30 "EM-EP-320a.1: (1) Total recordable incident rate (TRIR), (2) fatality rate, (3) near miss frequency rate (NMFR), and (4) average hours of health, safety, and emergency response training for (a) full-time employees, (b) contract employees, and (c) short-service employees EM-EP-320a.2: Discussion of management systems used to integrate a culture of safety throughout the exploration and production lifecycle"

SR: Page 23

SR: Page 29

404-2 Programs for upgrading employee skills and transition assistance programs 405-1 Diversity of governance bodies and employees

LOCATION OF DISCLOSURE/COMMENTS

SR: Page 31 SE15: Workforce diversity and inclusion

SR: Page 30

406-1 Incidents of discrimination and corrective actions taken

There were no incidents of discrimination in 2018.

413-1 Operations with local community engagement, impact assessments, and development programs

SE1: Local community impacts and engagement

414-1 New suppliers that were screened using social criteria

SE9: Human rights and suppliers

419-1 Non-compliance with laws and regulations in the social and economic area

"EM-EP-210b.1: Discussion of process to manage risks and opportunities associated with community rights and interests EM-EP-210b.2: Number and duration of non-technical delays"

SR: Page 34

SR: Page 35 "EM-EP-530a.1: Discussion of corporate positions related to government regulations and/or policy proposals that address environmental and social factors affecting the industry "

OG4: Number and percentage of significant operating sites in which biodiversity risk has been assessed and monitored

SR: Page 5

SR: Pages 21 SR: Pages 22 "SE5: Local content practices SE6: Local hiring practices SE7: Local procurement and supplier development"

"EM-EP-210a.1: Percentage of (1) proved and (2) probable reserves in or near areas of conflict EM-EP-210a.2: Percentage of (1) proved and (2) probable reserves in or near indigenous land EM-EP-210a.3: Discussion of engagement processes and due diligence practices with respect to human rights, indigenous rights, and operation in areas of conflict EM-EP-510a.1: Percentage of (1) proved and (2) probable reserves in countries that have the 20 lowest rankings in Transparency Internationalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Corruption Perception Index"

SR: Page 35

QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS? We’d love to hear from you. Contact Ashley McNamee, Whiting’s Director of Communications and Corporate Responsibility Ashley.McNamee@whiting.com