1. n. [Drilling Fluids]

Abbreviation for "Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act" of 1980. CERCLA is an expansion of RCRA, "Resources Conservation and Recovery Act" of 1976. These acts of the US Congress outline responsibilities of operators for transportation, storage, treatment, or disposal of regulated "hazardous substances," which include certain oilfield materials.

See related terms: CWA,  EPA,  Minerals Management Service,  MMS,  NPDES,  OOC