Calls for checks into health risks from fracking chemicals

People who live near fracking operations should be monitored for chemical contaminants and health problems, according to researchers who surveyed the risks posed by substances used in the process.

Scientists in the US found that many of the 750 or so chemicals that are pumped into the ground at high pressure to fracture shale rock were associated with fertility and developmental problems.

But very little is known about the levels of chemicals that people are actually exposed to from fracking operations, making it impossible to assess the real risk.

The scientists' study drew on published scientific reports into the health impacts of chemicals such as benzene and toluene, and elements including cadmium and arsenic that are released from rocks in the drilling process.

The team, led by Susan Nagel at the University of Missouri, fear that fracking chemicals could contaminate air, water and soil, and expose workers and local communities to the substances.

"We desperately need biomonitoring data from these people. What are people actually exposed to? What are the blood levels of people living in these areas? What are the levels in the workers?" said Nagel.