Abstract
Purpose: To determine the extent to which the silica levels are above the safety levels outlined by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration in areas proximal to the natural gas development sites. Background: While studies have shown that the silica levels in the hydraulic fracturing sites are very high, there is paucity of information as to how far away from the sites the silica levels in the air are dangerously high. Methods: The study will employ a longitudinal design with the data being collected over a ten-year period. The samples will be collected in a linear direction. The samples ...
