Pennsylvania Studies Radioactivity Associated with Fracking

The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) will conduct research into naturally occurring radiation levels in substances related to fracking.

Fracking is a drilling technique that injects chemicals, sand, and millions of gallons of water into shale deposits to extract natural gas. There are concerns that the process – also known as hydraulic fracturing – could contaminate local water sources and harm the health of area residents.

Pennsylvania water sources were tainted with radioactive waste when some water used for fracking was improperly treated and released by sewage plants, according to a 2011 investigative report from The New York Times.

Though the practice was discontinued by the oil and gas industry, the state’s DEP will look for the presence of radiation in fracking fluids, drill equipment, drill mud and equipment such as pipes, tanks for storage, and vehicles, reports StateImpact. The Marcellus Shale formation contains naturally occurring radioactive materials such as uranium and radium.

The DEP wants the study to be managed by a nuclear services and waste management company, PermaFix Environmental Services.

If you or a loved one has experienced an injury due to fracking, contact Sokolove Law today for a free legal consultation and to find out if a personal injury lawyer may be able to help you.

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