Module 2 · Wells and Wellhead Protection

The Sanitary Seal and Well Vent

The top of the well must prevent insects, dust, animals, drainage, and unauthorized access from entering the casing. A sanitary seal closes openings around pipes, cables, and shafts. The vent allows pressure to equalize without creating an unprotected path. Its opening should terminate in a protected position and use corrosion-resistant screening where required. Operators should inspect the seal, vent, cable openings, access port, and fasteners. A missing screen or loose opening can be a small defect with a direct path to the source.

Use a bright light during the wellhead check. Look around each cable, pipe, bolt, and access cover. Check that the vent points down and that its screen is clean and whole. Look for insect nests, rust, dust trails, or water marks. Touch only parts included in the inspection procedure. A loose cover should be reported and secured through the approved process, not left for the next round.