Donald Davies is a principal with Intrinsik Inc. in Calgary, Alberta. He provides an update on a screening-level assessment system for classifying hydraulic fracturing fluid additives in terms of their potential human health and environmental risks. The system is already in use.
Large amounts of water are needed for hydraulic fracturing, and additives typically make up only 0.5 percent of the water. Although the amount of additive within the water used is low, there has still been concern from the general public and the energy companies about the effects they may have on humans and the environment since they include surfactant, scale inhibitor, iron control, and corrosion inhibitors, among other compunds.
With this in mind, this screening system was created while meeting with different provincial and federal regulatory authorities in Canada and the US to gain support and advice, which informed and improved the way it was developed. It was also developed in line with CAPP's recommendation that all companies that participate in hydraulic fracturing assess potential health and environmental risks of each additive.
Intrinsik Environmental Sciences' screening level system for hydraulic fracturing fluid additives is an important tool for understanding additives used in the hydraulic fracturing process.
Donald Davie' presentation was part of PTAC's Water Forum, June 11, 2013 in Calgary, Alberta.
