Waste and contaminants can infiltrate deep into the soil and enter aquifers. As the level of contamination increases, the water quality begins to decrease, causing irreparable damage to the plants, animals and soil in the area. The monetary cost to remediate damage to groundwater resources is incalculable in arid regions.

The containment units drilling companies use must not only meet specific environmental standards but must be designed to be as efficient as possible depending on the type of drilling method being used.

Types of Waste Containment Methods Used in Environmental Drilling

There are various types of waste containment methods in environmental drilling, including:

• Dust containment units are recommended for drilling sites where air is used. Rotary drilling techniques can produce massive amounts of dust. Containment units collect the airborne debris and keep it from entering the atmosphere.
• Closed containment units are used to isolate drilling waste as its produced. This prevents it from leaching into the environment. Containers are sealed and can hold any variety of substances from dirt, rock, liquid or a mixture of waste. Once drilling is finished, the tanks can be reused after the contents have been properly disposed.
• Recycling tanks collect liquid wastes used in the drilling process. Water, oils and other non-petroleum based liquids are used to moisten the drill bits and keep the soil pliable enough for the them to move through.

Does the Site Location Determine the Waste Containment Method?

Site locations will also play a role in the waste containment methods that are used. For environmental drilling locations containment units are normally used to collect both dust and liquid run off used in the drilling process.  Containing the dust and liquid waste produced by drilling through the many layers of soil and contaminated zones is imperative for the protection of the environment.

What is Waste’s Impact on Soil and Groundwater?

Controlling the amount of waste that enters the environment, through the air, leaching into the ground or running off into the local water supply is vital if the natural health of the region is to be maintained. Too much contamination can lead to poor air and water quality. 

If you need more information about waste containment options, contact Talon/LPE in Amarillo, Texas. Their team of professional drilling experts are experienced, and make the safety of the environment, and their employees, a priority. Contact Talon/LPE today for your next Texas, New Mexico or Oklahoma environmental drilling project.