June 30, 2013 Tabytha
Beu
“There’s More Than Just Water Coming Out of the Tap in Pennsylvania”
Hydraulic fracturing, more
commonly known as “fracking”, is a technique used to remove fossil fuels from
deep beneath the surface of land. Though
highly efficient, the technique is not the safest way to obtain the energy
source. It is not safe for the workers
or the nearby inhabitants.
The process of fracking goes as
follows. Water, mixed with sand and
chemicals, is pumped into a well and creates fractures in the rocks. The fossil fuel deposits that are stored in
the rocks are released and pumped back up into the well. However, if the casings to the well are not
sealed correctly, then the chemicals can be leaked into the groundwater.
Water samples from 141 houses in
6 different counties in Pennsylvania were taken. Many of the samples showed high traces of
methane. Others contained ethane, and
some even showed traces of propane. The
houses nearest the fracking sites are at the highest risk of a health problem.
Drinking contaminated water can
cause a series of health problems. Some
include nausea, dizziness, and irritation of the lung. Other, more serious affects, include birth
defects, liver damage, and even death.
But, not only are the nearby inhabitants in danger, so are the workers
of the fracking sites.
Many workers will develop
silicosis. This disease is contracted
from exposure to high amounts of silica dust that is swept up during the
fracking process. So, not only is
hydraulic fracturing a serious health concern to nearby houses, but it is also
a health risk of the workers themselves.
Fracking
related article: http://www.scientificamerican.com/article.cfm?id=methane-in-pennsylvania-duke-study
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