(a) The quantities, characteristics, use, and testing of drilling mud and the related drilling procedures shall be designed and implemented to prevent the loss of well control.

(b) The lessee shall comply with requirements concerning mud control, mud test and monitoring equipment, mud quantities, and safety precautions in enclosed mud handling areas as prescribed in §§ 250.455 through 250.459 of this part, except that the installation of an operable degasser in the mud system as required in § 250.456(g) is not required for sulphur operations.