Every step of the process – from the initial boring of the well to its sealing after it has run dry – is conducted in accordance with state requirements. Indeed before a well is even drilled, it requires approval by state officials and a Permit-to-Drill.

Well operators not only work with state regulators, but also comply with numerous federal requirements. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration, the Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act and the Toxic Substances Control Act all contain record keeping and reporting rules followed by energy producers. These regulations ensure all chemicals used in the extraction process are properly handled and stored, and that workers and first responders are made aware of the substances they handle.

To prevent chemical exposure to water supplies, thick concrete casings and cement protect the well bore from allowing any seeps (think of going through a mountain tunnel, encased in thick concrete, that protects your car from the mountain collapsing).

In 2004, the EPA conducted an extensive survey of hydraulic fracturing (a practice used to produce natural gas) and its effect on drinking water. The EPA concluded that hydraulic fracturing does not create pathways for chemicals to travel between rock formations to affect the water supply. For more information, visit http://www.energyindepth.org.

Jeff Eshelman (jeff@energyindepth.org)

Thank you