I am sure the water supplies of bitumen-sealed wells would exceed the USEPA drinking water standards for polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) — and likely several heavy metals, as well.
Initially, anyway. Over time the levels would drop as the aromatics were depleted from the coating.
It didn't much matter at the time. When your life expectancy is around 40 due to a dozen or more tropical diseases and the Anopheles mosquitoes are buzzing 'round your ears, drinking a few petroleum volatiles is the least of your concerns.
***I am sure the water supplies of bitumen-sealed wells would exceed the USEPA drinking water standards for polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) — and likely several heavy metals, as well.***
Got an MSDS sheet on that?