Hydraulic fracturing is a safe, well-regulated, environmentally sound practice that has been employed over one million times without a single incidence of drinking water contamination. Hydraulic fracturing’s record of safety and impressive ability to help make the most of our domestic energy resources designate it as one of the most important tools in our nation’s effort to achieve energy independence.
Regulation
Since hydraulic fracturing became a commercially viable practice sixty years ago, state agencies have effectively monitored its implementation, setting guidelines and best practices. While most attention is focused on federal regulators, it is state agencies that do most of the heavy lifting when it comes to ensuring the safety of energy exploration. Each state has a team of highly qualified inspectors and scientists whose job is to guarantee the proper execution of oil and natural gas extraction. [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lRDeWhJGn-4]
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.
State and federal requirements and conscientious implementation by America’s independent oil and natural gas producers has ensured that every use of hydraulic fracturing is safe.
