Dangerous Chemicals Used in Harrisburg Natural Gas Drilling Causes Concerns
An Associated Press news report states that chemicals that are known to cause neurological and other serious adverse health effects are being used to drill natural gas wells in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. State environmental officials are planning on posting this list of compounds online. This list, they say, will be the first comprehensive catalog of all chemicals and compounds used in gas drilling in Pennsylvania.
Officials have put together this list based on information drilling companies are required to provide under federal law. Environmental experts worry that these chemicals, which are used in a process called hydraulic fracturing, also have the potential to poison underground drinking water sources. Industry officials however say that these chemicals do not pose an environmental hazard because they are handled safely.
A number of catastrophic health conditions are caused by such contamination in the environment. Serious diseases can result from contamination and poisoning of drinking water sources. It is extremely important that officials disclose all information about the chemicals used in these drilling activities as well as their potential for adverse effects.
Monheit is the managing lawyer at Monheit Law, outside Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He has practiced law since 1989. Michael Monheit was the managing attorney of the law offices of Herbert Monheit — now Silverman and Fodera — a firm founded by... Michael Monheit→
