8                    Land contamination

 

Introduction

 

8.1              Based on the findings of the review of potential environmental issues associated with land contamination in the EIA report, it was concluded that there are two identified areas within the works area having a potential of contaminated land.  Prior to the commencement of site clearance / excavation works, a sampling and analysis programme shall be prepared and implemented where contamination is suspected. 

 

Land Contamination Assessment

 

8.2              The land contamination assessment would include sampling and analysis of soil / groundwater to confirm the presence and level of contamination (if any) in the proposed potential zones for site contamination investigation (Figure 8.1).  The information obtained from the assessment would be used to determine the appropriate handling and disposal requirements of the excavated materials.

 

8.3              The sampling and analysis of soil and groundwater should be conducted in accordance with EPD’s requirements.  A Contamination Assessment Plan (CAP) should be submitted to EPD for endorsement prior to conducting the contamination assessment works at the two proposed zones as shown in Figure 8.1.  Based upon an endorsed CAP, a contamination assessment should be conducted and a Contamination Assessment Report (CAR) should then be compiled for EPD’s approval.  If contamination is identified during the preparation of the CAR, a Remediation Action Plan (RAP) should be submitted to EPD for approval and site clean up works should be conducted before the construction works of the Project.

 

Mitigation Measures

·        Environmental and safety precautionary measures should be implemented and reviewed during the construction of the elevated slip roads, in order to minimize the potential health impact on the site workers.  These precautionary measures include, but not limited to, the following:

·        Site workers should wear appropriate personal protective equipment (i.e. gloves, mask) when exposed to potential contaminated soil and groundwater;

·        Eating, drinking and smoking should be prohibited in contaminated areas to avoid advertent ingestion of contaminants;

·        Stockpiling of contaminated soil should be avoided as far as possible.  If this cannot be avoided, the stockpile of contaminated material should be segregated from the uncontaminated ones.  Moreover, the contaminated materials should be properly covered with appropriate material (e.g. tarpaulin) to avoid leaching of contaminants, especially during heavy rainstorm;

·        Bulk earth moving equipment should be utilized as much as possible to minimize handling and contact of contaminated materials of the workers;

·        Adequate washing facilities should be provided on site;

·        If disposal of contaminated soil and groundwater is needed, the Contractor should dispose of the contaminated soil according to the requirements agreed by EPD