The 411 on Hydraulic Fracturing

In the latest issue of Well Informed, ASSE’s Oil & Gas Practice Specialty, we take a deeper look at hydraulic fracturing and the environmental and human risks associated with it. Hydraulic fracturing is an oil and gas well drilling operation that opens up reservoirs by pumping fluid mixtures of chemicals and proppants, like sand and glass, at high pressures. Many environmental concerns accompany this operation, in particular whether the material left underground affects water tables and drinking water sources. Estimates show that between 15% and 45% are affected by it; however, data can be misleading since many of the hydraulic fracturing operations used to open up reservoirs are actually done thousands of feet below the water table levels, minimizing the contamination risk. “Most hydraulic fracturing operations use American Petroleum Institute-strength steel casing and cement around the area to further protect the groundwater from contamination,” the article reads. “The effects are heavily debated, but it is known that the process is complex and can be hazardous, so safety professionals should approach it with caution.” Although oil and gas producers have become more aware and conscientious of the risks associated with drilling, EHS professionals are encouraged to join industry consortiums, associations and groups to obtain and share best practices and to interact with government agencies. Numerous ASSE members, the Governmental Affairs team and the Oil & Gas Practice Specialty Advisory Committee have communicated with OSHA about the issue. For more information on hydraulic fracturing, click here.