“Here is your country. Cherish these natural wonders, cherish the natural resources, cherish the history and romance as a sacred heritage, for your children and your children’s children. Do not let selfish men, or greedy interests, skin your country of its beauty, its riches or its romance.”
Theodore Roosevelt

Saturday, July 26, 2014

More info is becoming available on the serious damage from crystalline silica dust

on Thursday, July 17, 2014 8:25 PM, Patricia J. Popple <sunnyday5@charter.net> wrote:


Alert!

Respirable crystalline silica dust is carcinogenic!  It is a problem for workers in the hydraulic fracturing industry! It is also in abundance around frac sand mines, processing plants, and trans-load stations in Wisconsin and the Midwest. Large quantities of dust were found this past winter and spring on layers of snow, on cars, and on roofs in Chippewa County near the mines and sand facilities.

Below is an article on worker exposure. One of the recommendations is for the industry to STOP using silica sand altogether.  Air purifiying respirators are not enough to control exposure. Note all the other recommendations for minimizing exposures to workers on wellpads.  Are any of these mitigating measures being carried out in communities where sand mining and processing is going on? We know workers are exposed. What about adults and their children and other already compromised individuals: are they being exposed as well and without protections? Please pass this article on to others in your groups and also to friends, neighbors,relatives and commercial enterprises. We have so much to lose health wise. And it is important people know of potential exposures.
ENVIRONMENTAL AND OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH

NIOSH reports on worker exposure to crystalline silica during hydraulic fracturing

frackingHydraulic fracturing or “fracking”  is the process of injecting large volumes of water, sand, and chemicals into the ground at high pressure to break up shale formation allowing more efficient recovery of oil and gas. This form of well stimulation has been used since the late 1940s, but has increased substantially during the past 10 years with the advent of horizontal drilling technology that greatly improves access to gas deposits in shale. 
Approximately 435,000 workers were employed in the U.S. oil and gas extraction industry in 2010; nearly half of those workers were employed by well servicing companies, which includes companies that conduct hydraulic fracturing (BLS).1
 
To date, most of the attention on the safety and health implications of hydraulic fracturing has been related to impacts on the environment, primarily the potential for ground water contamination by hydraulic fracturing fluids. 
Although worker safety hazards in the oil and gas extraction industry are well known, there is very little data regarding occupational health hazards during hydraulic fracturing operations; for example, whether workers are exposed to toxic chemicals at hazardous concentrations. 
To investigate potential worker health hazards in this rapidly expanding industry and address the existing lack of information on occupational dust and chemical exposures associated with hydraulic fracturing, NIOSH initiated the NIOSH Field Effort to Assess Chemical Exposures in Oil and Gas Extraction Workers. Initial hazard assessments identified exposure to crystalline silica during hydraulic fracturing as the most significant known health hazard to workers and this has been the focus of the NIOSH study to date. 
Crystalline silica, in the form of sand (“frac sand”), plays a major role in the hydraulic fracturing process. Each stage of the fracking operation typically involves hundreds of thousands of pounds of “frac sand.” The sand is used as a proppant to hold open the fissures created by hydraulic fracturing and allow the gas to flow out of the shale into the well.  Moving, transporting and refilling thousands of pounds of sand onto and through sand movers, along transfer belts, and into blenders generates considerable dust, including respirable crystalline silica, to which workers can be exposed. 

Silicosis

Inhalation of fine dusts of respirable crystalline silica can cause silicosis.2 Silicosis is an incurable but preventable lung disease. Mortality statistics undercount silicosis cases. Still, death certificates document that an average of 162 individuals died annually from or with silicosis in the U.S. over the period 2000-2005.3 The disease typically develops after long periods of exposure and progresses gradually. However, rapidly fatal cases of acute silicosis resulting from very intense exposures over only a few months or years are well documented among sandblasters, tunnelers, miners, and some other occupational groups.2 Crystalline silica has also been determined to be an occupational lung carcinogen4,5 and there is evidence that inhaling respirable silica dust causes chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), chronic renal (kidney) disease and various autoimmune diseases. Individuals with silicosis are known to be at higher risk of tuberculosis and several other respiratory infections. 

Silica Dust Levels

NIOSH collected 116 air samples at 11 different hydraulic fracturing sites in five different states (AR, CO, ND, PA and TX) to evaluate worker exposure to crystalline silica.  At each of the 11 sites, full-shift personal-breathing-zone (PBZ) exposures to respirable crystalline silica consistently exceeded relevant occupational health criteria (e.g., the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL), NIOSH Recommended Exposure Limit (REL), and the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienist’s (ACGIH) Threshold Limit Value (TLV®)).   At these sites, 54 (47%) of the 116 samples collected exceeded the calculated OSHA PELs; 92 of 116 (79%) exceeded the NIOSH REL and ACGIH TLV.  The magnitude of the exposures is particularly important; 36 of the 116 (31%) samples exceeded the NIOSH REL by a factor of 10 or more. The significance of these findings is that even if workers are properly using half-mask air-purifying respirators, they would not be sufficiently protected because half-mask air-purifying respirators have a maximum use concentration of 10 times the occupational health exposure limit. 
Based on these results, NIOSH concluded that an inhalation health hazard existed for workers exposed to crystalline silica at the evaluated hydraulic fracturing sites. NIOSH notified company representatives of these findings and provided reports with recommendations (listed below) to control exposure to crystalline silica. We recommend that all hydraulic fracturing sites evaluate their operations to determine the potential for worker exposure to crystalline silica and implement controls as necessary to protect workers. 
Based on workplace observations at each of the 11 hydraulic fracturing sites, NIOSH researchers identified seven primary points of dust release or generation from hydraulic fracturing equipment or operations. These included the following locations or equipment:  
Dust emitted from “thief” hatches (open ports on the top of the sand movers used to allow access into the bin)
Dust ejected and pulsed through side fill ports on the sand movers during refilling operations
Dust generated by on-site vehicle traffic, including sand trucks and crew trucks, by the release of air brakes on sand trucks, and by winds
Dust released from the transfer belt under the sand movers
Dust created as sand drops into, or is agitated in, the blender hopper and on transfer belts
Dust released from operations of transfer belts between the sand mover and the blender
Dust released from the top of the dragon’s tail (end of the sand transfer belt) on sand movers

Protecting Workers

Given the magnitude of silica-containing, respirable dust exposures measured by NIOSH, personal respiratory protection alone is not sufficient to adequately protect against workplace exposures. A combination of product substitution (where feasible), engineering, administrative, and personal protective controls, along with worker training, is needed to control workplace exposure to respirable silica during hydraulic fracturing. Working with industry partners, NIOSH researchers have identified the following controls, some simple, and some more complex, that can be implemented in a variety of ways.
Use a less hazardous non-silica proppant (e.g., ceramic) where feasible.
Use local exhaust ventilation for capture and collection. Cyclones dust collectors and a portable baghouse connected to thief hatches  can capture dusts as they are generated. NIOSH researchers have developed two conceptual phase controls for this source of dust generation. The first is a mini-baghouse assembly that could be retro-fitted over the existing thief hatch openings. The baghouse takes advantage of the positive pressure generated by sand filling which inflates the bag and dust control is achieved as a filter cake develops on the inside the baghouse fabric. The design is envisioned to be self-cleaning as the filter cake would fall back into the sand container as the fabric collapses when air pressure is released after bin filling.
Use passive enclosures at points of dust generation.  Install stilling curtains (also called staging curtains) around the bottom sides of the sand movers to limit dusts released from belt operation. Stilling curtains can be made of clear thick plastic (including heavy plastic strips) or other appropriate materials to contain dusts. Enclosures can also be considered along and at the ends of the sand transfer belt (dragon tail).
Minimize distances between the dragon tail and T-belts and blender hoppers. Minimizing the distance that sand falls through the air can help minimize dust generation.
Replace transfer belts with screw augers on sand movers. This involves Prevention-through-Design considerations for engineers and equipment designers when new sand movers are manufactured or are rebuilt and will require more extensive engineering and mechanical retrofitting. NIOSH has an active program that encourages Prevention-through-Design considerations so that occupational health and safety aspects (such as dust control) are built into equipment during the design phase.
Use amended water (e.g., containing chloride and magnesium salts) to reduce dust generation on roads into and at the well site. Do not use well brines for dust control.
Mandate use of cam-lock caps for fill ports on sand movers. When sand mover bins are being filled, sand dust is pulsed from the fill port on the opposite side of the sand mover. Mandating that cam lock caps be secured in place can help minimize dust generation.
Use administrative controls. Limit the number of workers, or the time workers must spend, in areas where exposure to high concentrations of silica can occur.  Consider options for remote operations to remove employees from areas where exposures can occur.
Provide worker training. Hydraulic fracturing workers should be trained on the hazards of crystalline silica and the steps they should take to limit dust generation and reduce the potential for exposure.
Monitor workers to determine their exposure to crystalline silica. Conduct PBZ air sampling on workers engaged in activities where “frac” sand is used.  Documenting worker exposures is important to verify the need for controls, determine the efficacy of controls that have been implemented, and ensure that the appropriate respiratory protection is used as an interim control until engineering controls can be implemented.  This information is also useful for worker training and informing workers about their exposures. Employers should consult with an occupational safety and health professional trained in industrial hygiene to ensure an appropriate sampling strategy is used.
Use appropriate respiratory protection as an interim measure until engineering controls are implemented. As discussed above, a half-mask air-purifying respirator may not provide sufficient protection. As an interim measure until engineering controls are implemented and evaluated, a higher level of respiratory protection should be used. Employers should consult with an occupational safety and health professional (industrial hygienist) to determine the appropriate respirator to be used. Employers should establish a comprehensive respiratory protection program that adheres to OSHA regulations (CFR 29 1910.134) and ensure that workers who wear respiratory protection are medically cleared, properly trained and fitted, and are clean shaven each day. The NIOSH policy on respiratory protection for crystalline silica can be found at: http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/docs/2008-140/. NIOSH guidance for selecting respirators can be found at http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/docs/2005-100/default.html.
The NIOSH document Best Practices for Dust Control in Metal/Nonmetal Mining discusses dust control in underground mining operations. Research results from this document have direct relevance for minerals handling operations in hydraulic fracturing operations.

Help Wanted

As noted above, NIOSH is designing conceptual engineering controls to minimize exposure to silica during hydraulic fracturing. NIOSH hopes to have a working prototype in the next month and is looking for industry partners to help us test this engineering control. If you are interested, please contact us via the blog comment box below or by e-mail at nioshblog@cdc.gov. NIOSH is also looking for additional partners in drilling and well servicing to work with us to evaluate worker exposures to other chemical hazards and develop controls as needed. Other potential workplace exposures can include hydrocarbons, lead, naturally occurring radioactive material (NORM) and diesel particulate matter which have not been fully characterized. Please refer to the document NIOSH Field Effort to Assess Chemical Exposure Risks to Gas and Oil Workers for details and contact us if you have questions or wish to participate. 
References

BLS, Quarterly Census of Employment and Wages: http://www.bls.gov/cew/.
Davis GS [1996]. Silica. In: Harber P, Schenker MB, Balmes JR, eds. Occupational and environmental respiratory disease. 1st ed. St. Louis, MO: Mosby—Year Book, Inc., pp. 373–399.
National Occupational Respiratory Mortality System (NORMS). http://webapp.cdc.gov/ords/norms.html
NIOSH Hazard Review, Health Effects of Occupational Exposure to Respirable Crystalline Silica.http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/docs/2002-129/pdfs/2002-129.pdf.
National Toxicology Program [2012]. Report on carcinogens 12th ed. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Public Health Service. http://ntp.niehs.nih.gov/?objectid=03C9AF75-E1BF-FF40-DBA9EC0928DF8B15

the vast majority of Houston County citizens are against Industrial Frac Sand Mining - Don't be left wondering if you could have done something

We Need Your Help Right Now. This Issue is Being Decided Now!

 
Recent polls and door knocking indicate that the vast majority of Houston County citizens are against Industrial Frac Sand Mining, but only a few people have spoken out. Some of the Houston County Commissioners lack the courage to stand up to the special interests pushing mining. They need to hear from you that you want a total ban on Frac Sand Mining in the County; they need to hear the will of the people. 
 
Houston County has appointed an ordinance writing committee that is currently writing an ordinance to permit Frac Sand Mining in Houston County. 
 

The Erickson mine permit was rushed through despite its many legal problems

Don't be left wondering if you could have done something to stop this after the bluffs are gone, environment damaged, roads destroyed, tourism hurt, water depleted, air polluted, and property values lost.
Photo credit: Ted Auch, 2013

If you have questions or suggestions, contact us

anti-frac sand presence in the St. Charles Gladiolus Days parade

Dear Friends and Neighbors,

  Here's a chance to show up and connect with the public who may not yet know about our concerns re: frac sand mining in our region.

Wishing you well,
Bonita


On Friday, July 25, 2014 1:13 PM, Johanna Rupprecht <jrupprecht@landstewardshipproject.org> wrote:


Hi CASM members, St. Charles and Fillmore Co. friends, et. al.,

Vince Ready and Pauline Connaughty are going to head up an effort to have an anti-frac sand presence in the St. Charles Gladiolus Days parade on
Sunday, August 24. Vince is signing up for a parade spot today. They are
looking for folks, from St. Charles or other communities, to help walk
(maybe ride) in the parade, hand out bumper stickers and information, etc.

I will not be able to work on this myself as it's the day after LSP's big
summer picnic, but I wanted to put you all in touch with Vince at
vincentready@hotmail.com -- please contact him if you can help.

Thanks,
Johanna

Johanna Rupprecht
Policy Organizer
Land Stewardship Project

Lewiston, MN
507-523-3366
jrupprecht@landstewardshipproject.org

Friday, July 18, 2014

We are asking them not to go along with Houston Co.'s idea that this was a permit "renewal," and to require the trout stream permit.

Dear Friends and Neighbors,

  Here's a chance to take a few minutes and speak up.  We need to pile up the messages!
Talking points in the last paragraph.

Wishing you well,
Bonita 
 

On Friday, July 18, 2014 1:44 PM, Johanna Rupprecht <jrupprecht@landstewardshipproject.org> wrote:


Hello Houston Co. folks and neighboring county allies,

The DNR has still not made a final decision on whether they're going to enforce the Trout Stream Setback Permit requirement on the Erickson mine. Attached is a letter LSP sent to Commissioner Landwehr. We are asking them not to go along with Houston Co.'s idea that this was a permit "renewal," and to require the trout stream permit.

Here's the DNR's fact sheet about the trout stream permit: http://files.dnr.state.mn.us/lands_minerals/silicasand/silicasand-troutstream-setback-factsheet.pdf It includes the line, "Silica sand mining operations that were operating before May 24, 2013 are not required to obtain the trout stream setback permit." We believe this strengthens our case, since the Erickson mine certainly was not operating at that date, nor was there any active mining at the site for a long time before then.

I'm writing to ask you to help with this by calling Commissioner Landwehr and Governor Dayton. Ask them to make sure state law is enforced and a trout stream setback permit is required on the Erickson silica sand mine in Houston County. Let them know where you live and why you're concerned about this issue. Here are the numbers:

DNR Commissioner Tom Landwehr: 651-259-5022
Governor Mark Dayton: 651-201-3400

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Thanks,
Johanna

Johanna Rupprecht
Policy Organizer
Land Stewardship Project

Lewiston, MN
507-523-3366
jrupprecht@landstewardshipproject.org

Thursday, July 17, 2014

Sign the petition for a ban

What You Can Do to Help:
 
1. Get Informed
 
For more information visit  www.sandpointtimes.com
  
 
2. Help Petition for a Ban
 
Print off a copy of the petition for a ban, sign it and get your friends and family to sign it.
 
Send completed petitions to: 
Houston County Protectors
P.O. Box 487
Houston, MN 55943   
 
 
 
 
Better yet, help with the door to door petition drive; call Donna Buckbee at 507-864-2632
 
 
3. Write or Call Your County Commissioner
 
Let them know where you stand on Frac Sand Mining in Houston County. Better yet tell them in person at 9 AM every Tuesday at the Court House.
 
* Judy Storlie (District 1): 507-895-8994 | email

* Justin Zmyewski (District 2): 507-450-8297 | email

* Steve Schuldt (District 3): 507-724-3639 |  email

* Teresa Walter (District 4): 507-895-2446 | email

* Dana Kjome (District 5): 507-498-5676 | email
 
 
4. Write A Letter to Your Local Newspaper
Help to speak out and inform the public.
 
 
5. Talk to Friends and Neighbors
Let them know what is happening.
 
 
6. Donate to the Houston County Protectors 
We would not be where we are today without you and the dedication of our volunteers. The Houston County Protectors is an entirely volunteer-based group. Please consider making a donation. Your continued support can only strengthen our effectiveness.

Make checks payable to: 
The Houston County Protectors 
P.O. Box 487 
Houston, MN 55943

 
7. Join the Houston County Protectors 
For information on joining the Houston County Protectors contact us at 507-864-2191 or email us.

Saturday, July 12, 2014

Owner of Minn. Sands announced his intention to mine in Fillmore & Winona counties

Dear Friends and Neighbors,

  Short & Snappy:
  "Owner of Minn. Sands announced his intention to mine in Fillmore & Winona counties at three or four more sites than were previously identified."

  Land Stewardship Project's  "Working in Tandem" approach to societal change.

  Stop increased frac sand shipment at Winona port.

  More info in COLOR at "Land Stewardship Letter" of Land Stewardship Project.

Wishing you well,
Bonita

Friday, July 11, 2014

We are inundated with new and upstart mines, processing plants, and transload stations


On Friday, July 11, 2014 1:38 PM, Bonita Underbakke <nestree11402@yahoo.com> wrote:


Dear Friends and Neighbors,
  Current collection of info for our region from neighbors in Wisconsin.
Wishing you well,
Bonita

On Friday, July 11, 2014 11:27 AM, Patricia J. Popple <sunnyday5@charter.net> wrote:


Greetings from Wisconsin, the home of frac sand mining and related industries. We are inundated with new and upstart mines, processing plants, and transload stations. The 500 million year old silica sand (frac) from ridges, hills and bluffs is being transported out of our state, without benefit of taxation, to the hydraulic fracturing fields located in about 34 states. Scabs and scars are being left behind as large acreages are being knifed and blasted out of the landscapes of our countryside. Our citizens including their children are being unfairly exposed to crystalline silica dust be it from the mines or from the fugitive dust which seems to be everywhere as trucks, trains, the air etc. distribute these ancient sandstone formation particulates to the winds.

The connections with the fossil fuel industry are many. In this edition of the FRAC SAND SENTINEL, I have included a few important items. Some of you may already already be aware of the information, but for many of you it may be new and fresh information that can be applied as we learn more about this industry and share our findings with those who may be unaware. It may be helpful to your decision makers in you communities. Feel free to share.
Our webmaster, Henry Boschen, does post the Sentinel on the website for your reference.  There are 2 formats: Word and PDF which are attached.

There are many great groups working with their hearts and heads to save our state from total destruction. If you haven't joined a group near you, please make a commitment to do so soon. This is absolutely no longer a local issue; you do not stand alone! And with State, Regional, National and International Connections, we all together can make a difference to end this madness in whatever fashion and with the variable skills we possess!
Pat Popple
715-723-6398
sunnyday5@charter.net
www.ccc-wis.com