Reviewing on Risks of Naturally Occurring Radioactive Material Exposure on the Environment in Oil and Gas Field

Abstract

The hazards associated with Naturally Occurring Radioactive Materials (NORM) encompass the possibility of absorption, ingestion, and external exposure in situations where there is a substantial collection of scales. TENORM and/or NORM are generated when fluids (Oil and natural gas) extracted from reservoirs introduce sulphates into the environment’s atmosphere. The term “Diffuse NORM” is the recognized categorization in certain states, such as North Dakota. Smaller atoms including radium-226 as well as radium-228 can be accommodated within larger compounds like barium, calcium, and strontium sulphates. These smaller atoms can then be transported through the fluids produced by these compounds. 222Rn is a radioactive inert gas that can be found in different amounts in natural gas and oil deposits. Without the presence of natural gas (NG), 222Rn is distributed between the (light) hydrocarbon (NGL) and/or aqueous phase. When generated alongside oil and gas, 222Rn typically accompanies the gas flow. There are other potential sources of exposure, such as equipment decontamination, transportation of waste and contaminated devices, and general maintenance. Comparable levels of exposure can also arise during the process of decommissioning facilities utilized for the production of oil and gas, as well as for waste treatment. The primary external source of gamma rays for oil workers in the sector comes from the short-lived descendants of 226Ra and 228Ra, which are present in scale, sludge, and sand. Additionally, one of the most crucial methods to prevent the entry of pollutants into the environment or human bodies is through the use of containment measures. Radioactive material is differentiated from radioactive pollution when it is confined within its specified enclosure. A location is deemed “contaminated” when the presence of radioactive elements may be detected beyond a containment area.