ABSTRACT

This research work is focused on the comparative analysis of drilling waste disposal methods. It is aimed at, identifying and comparing the various methods of managing drilling wastes, and adopting the technique which is more effective and efficient. There are several disposal techniques employed in disposing drilling wastes, some of which do not meet the existing effluent limitations set by the Nigerian government.

The On-site burial, Burning/Incineration, Offshore Discharge, and Cuttings Re-injection methods of handling drilling wastes were analyzed in this study.

The re-injection method is chosen based on the fact that it gives permanent ‘elimination’ of the waste (s) from the environment.

The incineration method causes atmospheric pollution and has a very short life span.

On-site burial is considered unsuitable to the environment because of the potential contamination of usable water resources, while the improper Offshore discharge of contaminated drill cuttings exposes marine life to danger.