Naturally Occurring Radioactive Material (NORM)

Naturally Occurring Radioactive Material (NORM), also described as Low Specific Activity (LSA) material, can be found in many geological formations and may be brought to the surface during oil and gas exploration and production.

Within oil production operations NORM is generally observed as deposits of Barium Sulphate containing quantities of natural radionuclides that have leached from the reservoir geology.  The Barium Sulphate formed, results from a chemical incompatibility between reservoir formation water and injected waters and is a chemically inert and highly insoluble material. This material can be deposited in the form of scale, sand, wax and sludge and may accumulate on or within production plant and equipment on an installation.  NORM scale deposits may significantly reduce the efficiency of the production equipment on an installation and must be removed regularly.

NORM is governed by legislation with strict controls on its handling, storage and disposal.  Operators and contractors are also required to develop appropriate working procedures and training to control, protect and minimise the exposure to workers because of the hazardous radioactive nature of the material.

Our new joint venture, NORM Solutions Limited, will deal with NORM contaminated materials by safely removing and disposing of the NORM deposits that have accumulated. We are able to deliver a service suited to your needs also providing you with radiological sampling and analysis upon request.  Our team of Radiation Protection Supervisors (RPS) support our comprehensive package by providing quayside monitoring for radiation detection and onsite assistance for support. 

For more information on NORM Solutions please visit www.normsolutions.co.uk