subject: Criteria for Well Location [print this page] Criteria for Well Location Criteria for Well Location
Irrespective of the objective of installing a well, its location is of extreme importance. Carelessly selected location for well box installation may contaminate groundwater or spread pollutants in otherwise clean aquifers. A meticulously chosen well location is totally in line with principles of environment construction and Loss Prevention System (LPS), the behavior based management tool that encourages organizations to be proactive in minimizing worksite accidents and risks.
Following are some guidelines to select an appropriate location for well box installation
Potential sources of water pollution are landfills, chemical storage areas, septic systems, radioactive disposal systems, abandoned wells and fuel storage sites. Make a list of all these features before installing a well. Consider all possible parameters to be taken care of when identifying a site.
Determine the minimum setback distance which functions as a buffer insulating water source from contaminants such as those from septic tanks, commercial activities, domestic wastes and fertilizer/pesticide use. This distance also protects functional wells from flooding.
The minimum setback distance depends on the type of activity to be carried out and size of the water body to be protected. Bigger setback distances are necessary around rivers, lakes and reservoirs while smaller buffers are sufficient for well box installation around a building. It follows that the setback distance can range anywhere from 5 feet to 1000 feet.
Adhering to the recommended setback distance naturally preserves water quality. Understand that government suggested separation distances actually refer to the bare minimum expanse between a well and a potential contaminant. To be doubly sure about preventing water pollution, assess the location thoroughly and increase the setback distance if necessary.
Be particularly careful when digging a well in the vicinity of an unplugged abandoned well. In such a situation, contact local health department to determine specific considerations. As a rule of thumb, setback distance between a new well and an unused unblocked well should be between 50 feet to 100 feet.
Determine the precise direction in which the groundwater flows. This is because groundwater flow does not always follow the course of surface slope. This means, in spite of a safe setback distance pollutants may still find their way to the groundwater. In these instances, having information about groundwater movement can help calculate accurate minimum distance.
Enhance loss prevention by making sure that at least 2 feet around the well is absolutely clear of all trees, buildings and overhanging/underground wires.
Never opt for well box installation in a basement.
Choose an easily accessible site so maintenance, inspection and replacement procedures can be executed without accessibility issues.
