Environmental Considerations Associated with Hydraulic Fracturing Operations
by James A. Jacobs, Stephen M. Testa
12Sampling, Exposure Pathways, and Site Conceptual Models
12.1 Introduction
Unconventional oil and gas production is an industrial process, and inevitable impacts or changed conditions will occur or will be noticed at or near the drill pad, mine site, and gas‐processing plant, along pipelines, or in nearby communities. Some of the main concerns about unconventional oil and gas exploration and production operations relate to human health risks and environmental exposure concerns (Figure 12.1). The figure illustrates possible or potential impact pathways. Five subsurface pathway groups will be represented below. Pathway groups are numbered 0 to 4.
Figure 12.1 Diagram of potential impact pathways (0–4) from unconventional oil and gas exploration and development.
Source: Modified after German FEA (2012).
12.1.1 Pathway Group 0
Pathway Group 0 includes surface spillage at the chemical factory and distribution center, during transportation, along the pipeline or at the well pad. Once on‐site, surface release of chemicals or hazardous wastes can occur from accidental spillage during the storage, mixing, or handling of hydraulic fracture chemicals, flowback fluids, or production fluids from storage containers, including drums, tanks, ponds, or pits. Canals, channels, stormwater pipes, leaky sanitary sewer pipes, and utility trench backfill can convey contaminants in the environment. ...