Well site preparation
Stages in the preparation of a well site: 1 & 2: laying the impermeable membrane; 3: base material covering the membrane; 4: drainage ditch surrounding the site
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Site selection is a complex process that not only involves finding a site in the right area to drill a well, but also one where the environmental impact is minimised.
We study flora, fauna, road access, noise, visual, traffic and community impact before even beginning to seek planning approval. Once approved, we ensure that the site can be returned to its original state after our operations. For example, the top soil is removed and stored in a protected bund for later restoration.
A thick impermeable membrane is also installed under the whole area to prevent any unwanted fluids from vehicles or machinery draining into the sub-soil.
The site is surrounded by a ditch which is also lined with an impermeable membrane. Any liquids from the wellsite drain into the ditch. In most cases the rainwater that accumulates in the ditch and sump is used to build the drilling fluid.
Fast fact
The impermeable membrane is 0.75mm thick and is made of linear low density polyethylene which is fusion welded on site.