1                                            Introduction

1.1                                      Purpose of the Manual

This Environmental Monitoring and Audit (EM&A) Manual (“the Manual”) has been prepared by ERM-Hong Kong, Limited (ERM) on behalf of The Castle Peak Power Company Limited (CAPCO), a joint venture between CLP Power Hong Kong Limited (CLP) and ExxonMobil Energy Limited (EMEL).  The Manual is a supplementary document of the EIA Study of the Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) Receiving Terminal and Associated Facilities at Black Point (hereafter referred to as the Project).

The Manual has been prepared in accordance with the EIA Study Brief (No. ESB-126/2005) and the Technical Memorandum of the Environmental Impact Assessment Process (EIAO TM).  The purpose of the Manual is to provide information, guidance and instruction to personnel charged with environmental duties and those responsible for undertaking EM&A work during construction and operation.  It provides systematic procedures for monitoring and auditing of potential environmental impacts that may arise from the works.

This Manual contains the following information:

·      Responsibilities of the Contractor(s), Environmental Team (ET), and the Independent Environmental Checker (IEC) with respect to the environmental monitoring and audit requirements during the course of the project;

·      Project organisation;

·      The basis for, and description of, the broad approach underlying the EM&A programme;

·      Requirements with respect to the construction and operational programme schedule and the necessary environmental monitoring and audit programme to track the varying environmental impact;

·      Details of the methodologies to be adopted including field, laboratory and analytical procedures, and details on quality assurance and quality control programme;

·      The rationale by which the environmental monitoring data will be evaluated and interpreted;

·      Preliminary definition of Action and Limit levels;

·      Establishment of Event and Action plans;

·      Requirements for reviewing pollution sources and working procedures required in the event of exceedances of applicable criteria and/or receive of complaints;

·      Requirements for presentation of environmental monitoring and audit data and appropriate reporting procedures; and

·      Requirements for review of EIA predictions and the effectiveness of the mitigation measures/environmental management systems and the EM&A programme.

For the purpose of this manual, the ET Leader (ETL), who will be responsible for and in charge of the ET, will refer to the person delegated the role of executing the EM&A requirements.

1.2                                      Project Description

1.2.1                                Background to the Study

CAPCO is proposing the development of a Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) Receiving Terminal in the Hong Kong SAR for a sustainable supply of natural gas, primarily to fuel CAPCO’s power plant at Black Point.  CAPCO has conducted a series of studies examining the optimum approach to provide a long-term secure supply of natural gas to Hong Kong.  They have also completed site search studies to examine the most suitable locations for the LNG terminal in Hong Kong.  CAPCO commenced discussions with the members of the Environmental Study Management Group (ESMG) in September 2004 to explain the site selection process and outline a way forward.  The ESMG was represented by a range of Government departments to advise CAPCO on environmental, conservation, gas and fire safety, planning, marine and land issues. 

At the same time CAPCO commenced a dialogue with other key stakeholders including Non-governmental Organisations (NGOs) to seek feedback on their proposals and factor some of the issues raised into the design plans prior to commencing the formal EIAO process. 

The outcome of the discussions with Government and other stakeholders was that South Soko and Black Point would be taken forward into the formal EIAO process and an EIA Study conducted on each.

1.2.2                                The Proposed Black Point Project 

The Black Point LNG terminal is proposed to be located at the northern face of the Black Point headland, as presented in the preliminary layout shown in Figure 1.1.  Part of the site area (approx. 16 ha) will be formed by reclamation extending out from the Black Point headland.  The remaining site area will be formed by cutting part of the slope of the northern face of the Black Point headland.  To allow safe access for the LNG carrier, an approach channel and turning basin is required.  Should the Black Point option be selected as the LNG receiving terminal site, natural gas will be sent via a short onshore pipeline to the Black Point Power Station (BPPS).  The onshore pipeline is expected to be within the boundary of the BPPS.

1.3                                      Objective of the EM&A

The broad objective of this EM&A Manual is to define the procedures of the EM&A programme for monitoring the environmental performance of the LNG project during design, construction and operation.  The construction and operational impacts arising from the implementation of the Project are specified in the EIA Report.  The EIA Report also specifies mitigation measures and construction practices that may be needed to ensure compliance with the environmental criteria.  These mitigation measures and their implementation requirements are presented in the Implementation Schedule of Mitigation Measures (Annex A).

The main objectives of the EM&A programme are to:

·      provide a database of environmental parameters against which to determine any short term or long term environmental impacts, such as through detailed baseline monitoring;

·      provide an early indication should any of the environmental control measures or practices fail to achieve the acceptable standards;

·      ensure the mitigation recommendations of the EIA are included in the design of the project;

·      clarify and identify potential sources of pollution, impact and nuisance arising from the works for the responsible parties;

·      confirm compliance with regulatory requirements, contract specifications and EIA study recommendations;

·      confirm compliance of environmental designs during the design phase of the Project with the specifications stated in the EIA Report and the EP;

·      monitor performance of the mitigation measures and to assess their effectiveness;

·      take remedial action if unexpected issues or unacceptable impacts arise;

·      verify the environmental impacts predicted in the EIA; and

·      audit environmental performance.

EM&A procedures are required during the design, construction, post-construction and operational phases of the project implementation and a summary of the requirements for each of the environmental parameters is detailed in Table 1.1 below.

 

Table 1.1        Summary of EM&A Requirements

 

Parameter

EM&A Phase

Design

Phase(2)

Construction Phase

Post-Construction Phase

Operation Phase

Air Quality

-

Yes

-

-

Noise

-

Yes

-

-

Water Quality

-

Yes

Yes

-

Waste

-

Yes

-

-

Terrestrial Ecology

- (1)

-

-

-

Marine Ecology

- (1)

Yes

Yes

-

Fisheries

- (1)

-

-

-

Landscape and Visual

Yes

Yes

Yes

-

Cultural Heritage

Yes

-

-

-

Quantitative Risk

Yes

-

-

-

Land Contamination Prevention

Yes

-

-

-

Note:      

(1)      Although pre- construction monitoring may overlap the design phase, the focus of this monitoring will be to provide additional information on which to assess potential impacts through construction.

(2) EM&A requirements in the design phase shall include confirmation on the compliance for environmental designs which were specified in the EIA Report and the EP for all parameters.

1.4                                      The Scope of the EM&A Programme

The scope of this EM&A programme is to:

·      establish baseline water quality levels at specified locations;

·      implement monitoring and inspection requirements for water quality monitoring programme;

·      implement inspection and audit requirements for marine ecology (marine mammals) monitoring programme;

·      liaise with, and provide environmental advice (as requested or when otherwise necessary) to construction site staff on the significance and implications of the environmental monitoring data;

·      identify and resolve environmental issues and other functions as they may arise from the works;

·      check and quantify the Contractor(s)’s overall environmental performance, implementation of Event and Action Plans (EAPs), and remedial actions taken to mitigate adverse environmental effects as they may arise from the works;

·      conduct monthly reviews of monitored impact data as the basis for assessing compliance with the defined criteria and to ensure that necessary mitigation measures are identified and implemented, and to undertake additional ad hoc monitoring and auditing as required by special circumstances;

·      evaluate and interpret environmental monitoring data to provide an early indication should any of the environmental control measures or practices fail to achieve the acceptable standards, and to verify the environmental impacts predicted in the EIA;

·      manage and liaise with other individuals or parties concerning other environmental issues deemed to be relevant to the construction process;

·      conduct regular site inspections of a formal or informal nature to assess:

-         the level of the Contractor(s)’s general environmental awareness;

-         the Contractor(s)’s implementation of the recommendations in the EIA and their contractual obligations;

-         the Contractor(s)’s performance as a measured by the EM&A;

-         the need for specific mitigation measures to be implemented or the continued usage of those previously agreed;

-         to advise the site staff of any identified potential environmental issues;

-         submit monthly EM&A reports which summarise project monitoring and auditing data, with full interpretation illustrating the acceptability or otherwise of any environmental impacts and identification or assessment of the implementation status of agreed mitigation measures; and

·      develop environmental contract clauses for contractor contract.

1.5                                      Works Programme and Works Locations

The construction works are anticipated to commence in 2007.  The preliminary construction programme is given in Annex B.  The locations of works are shown in Figure 1.1.  The Sensitive Receivers in the vicinity of the proposed LNG terminal at Black Point is shown in Figure 1.3.

1.6                                      Organisation and Structure of the EM&A

1.6.1                                General

CAPCO will appoint an Environmental Team (ET) to conduct the monitoring and auditing works and to provide specialist advice on undertaking and implementation of environmental responsibilities.

The ET will have previous relevant experience with managing similarly sized EM&A programmes and the Environmental Team Leader (ET Leader) will be a recognised environmental professional, preferably with a minimum of seven years relevant experience in impact assessments and impact monitoring programmes.

To maintain strict control of the EM&A process, CAPCO will appoint independent environmental consultants to act as an Independent Environmental Checker (IEC) to verify and validate the environmental performance of the Contractor(s) and his Environmental Team.  The IEC will have previous relevant experience with checking and auditing similarly sized EM&A programmes and the IEC will be a recognised environmental professional, preferably with a minimum of seven years relevant experience in impact assessments and impact monitoring programmes.

1.6.2                                Project Organisation

The roles and responsibilities of the various parties involved in the EM&A process are further expanded in the following sections and in Figure 1.2.  The ET Leader will be responsible for, and in charge of, the Environmental Team; and will be the person responsible for executing the EM&A requirements, and to develop environmental Contract Clauses for Contractor Contract. 

 

CAPCO

CAPCO will:

·       retain an Environmental Team (ET) to undertake monitoring, laboratory analysis and reporting of environmental monitoring and audit data;

·       retain an Independent Environmental Checker (IEC) to audit and verify the overall environmental performance of the works and to assess the effectiveness of the ET in their duties;

·       supervise the Contractor(s)’ activities and ensure that the requirements in the EM&A Manual and the Contract Document are fully complied with;

·       develop appropriate contract clauses to ensure that the Contractor(s) will have qualified professionals to interface with the ETL/CAPCO/IEC to fulfil the EIA/EP requirements;

·       inform the Contractor(s) when action is required to reduce impacts in accordance with the Event and Action Plans;

·       adhere to the procedures for carrying out complaint investigation; and

·       participate in joint site inspections undertaken by the ET and IEC.

The Contractor(s)

The Contractor(s) will:

·       work within the scope of the construction contract and other tender conditions;

·       provide assistance to the ET in carrying out monitoring;

·       submit proposals on mitigation measures in case of exceedances of Action and Limit levels in accordance with the Event and Action Plans;

·       implement measures to reduce impact where Action and Limit levels are exceeded;

·       implement the corrective actions instructed by CAPCO/ET/IEC;

·       participate in the site inspections undertaken by the ET and the IEC, as required, and undertake any corrective actions instructed by CAPCO/ETL/IEC; and

·       adhere to the procedures for carrying out complaint investigation.

Environmental Team

The Environmental Team (ET) will:

·      monitor various environmental parameters as required in this EM&A Manual;

·      assess the EM&A data and review the success of the EM&A programme determining the adequacy of the mitigation measures implemented and the validity of the EIA predictions as well as identify any adverse environmental impacts before they arise;

·      carry out regular site inspection to investigate and audit the Contractor(s)’s site practice, equipment and work methodologies with respect to pollution control and environmental mitigation, and effect proactive action to pre-empt issues;

·      review the Contractor(s)’s working programme and methodology, and comment as necessary;

·      develop environmental contract clauses for contractor contract;

·      review and prepare reports on the environmental monitoring data, site environmental conditions and audits;

·      report on the environmental monitoring and audit results and conditions to the IEC, Contractor(s), EPD and CAPCO ;

·      recommend suitable mitigation measures to the Contractor(s) in the case of exceedance of Action and Limit levels in accordance with the Event and Action Plans;

·      adhere to the procedures for carrying out complaint investigation; and

·      the ET Leader will keep a contemporaneous log-book and record each and every instance or circumstance or change of circumstances which may affect the environmental impact assessment and every non-conformance with the recommendations of the EIA Reports or the EPs.

The ET will be led and managed by the ET Leader.  The ET leader will have relevant education, training, knowledge, experience and professional qualifications and the appointment will be subject to the approval of the Director of Environmental Protection.  Suitably qualified staff will be included in the ET, and ET should not be in any way an associated body of the Contractor(s).

Independent Environmental Checker

The IEC will:

·      review and monitor the implementation of the EM&A programme and the overall level of environmental performance being achieved;

·      arrange and conduct monthly independent site inspections/audits of the works;

·      validate and confirm the accuracy of monitoring results, monitoring equipment, monitoring stations, monitoring procedures and locations of sensitive receivers;

·      carry out random sample check and audit on monitoring data and sampling procedures, etc;

·      audit the EIA recommendations and requirements against the status of implementation of environmental protection measures on site;

·      on a need basis, audit the Contractor(s)’s construction methodology and agree the appropriate, reduced impact alternative in consultation with CAPCO, the ET and the Contractor(s);

·      provide specialist advice to CAPCO and the Contractor(s) on environmental matters;

·      check complaint cases and the effectiveness of corrective measures;

·      check that the necessary mitigation measures recommended in the EIA, EP and Contract documents, or as subsequently required, are effectively implemented;

·      review EM&A report submitted by the ET leader and feedback audit results to ET by signing off relevant EM&A proformas;

·      report the findings of site inspections/ audits and other environmental performance reviews to CAPCO, ET, EPD and the Contractor(s); and

·      Sufficient and suitably qualified professional and technical staff will be employed by the respective parties to ensure full compliance with their duties and responsibilities, as required under the EM&A programme for the duration of the Project.

1.6.3                                Key Contact Information

Key contact information will be provided in a similar format as in Table 1.2.

Table 1.2        Contact Information - to be completed prior to commencement of construction

Name

Position

Telephone

Facsimile

E-mail

CAPCO – Environmental Permit Holder

To be confirmed

 

 

 

 

Contractor(s)

To be confirmed

 

 

 

 

Environmental Team

To be confirmed

 

 

 

 

Independent Environmental Checker

To be confirmed

 

 

 

 

1.7                                      Structure of the EM&A Manual

The remainder of the Manual is set out as follows:

·       Section 2 sets out the EM&A general requirements and EIAO Permit Conditions;

·       Section 3 sets out the EM&A requirement for air quality;

·       Section 4 sets out the EM&A requirement for noise;

·       Section 5 details the requirements for water quality baseline and impact monitoring, and lists relevant monitoring equipment, compliance and Event and Action Plans (EAPs);

·       Section 6 details the requirements for waste management;

·       Section 7 sets out the EM&A requirement for terrestrial ecology;

·       Section 8 details the requirements for marine ecology (marine mammal);

·       Section 9 sets out the EM&A requirements for landscape and visual;

·       Section 10 sets out the EM&A requirements for cultural heritage;

·       Section 11 sets out the EM&A requirements for land contamination prevention and quantitative risk;

·       Section 12 describes the scope and frequency of site environmental auditing; and

·       Section 13 details the reporting requirements for the EM&A.

 

2                                            EM&A General Requirement

2.1                                      Introduction

In this section, the general requirements of the EM&A programme for the Project are presented with reference to the relevant findings from the EIA Report that have formed the basis of the scope and content of the programme.

2.2                                      Construction Phase EM&A

2.2.1                                General

The environmental issues, which were identified during the EIA process and are associated with the construction phase of the Project will be addressed through the monitoring and controls specified in this EM&A Manual and in the construction contracts.

During the construction phases of the Project, air quality, noise quality, water quality, ecology, landscape and visual, waste and cultural heritage will be subject to EM&A, with environmental monitoring being undertaken for water quality and marine ecology as determined in the EIA.  Monitoring of the effectiveness of the mitigation measures will be achieved through the environmental monitoring programme as well as through site inspections.  The inspections will include within their scope, mechanisms to review and assess the Contractor(s)’s environmental performance, ensuring that the recommended mitigation measures have been properly implemented, and that the timely resolution of received complaints are managed and controlled in a manner consistent with the recommendations of the EIA Report.

2.2.2                                Environmental Monitoring

The environmental monitoring work throughout the Project period will be carried out in accordance with this EM&A and reported by the ET.  Monitoring works will comprise of quantitative assessment of physical parameters such as water quality and marine ecology impacts which also form an important part of the whole monitoring programme.  The monitoring programme will be conducted at the chosen representative sensitive receivers in the vicinity of the construction site.

2.2.3                                Action and Limit Levels

Action and Limit (A/L) Levels are defined levels of impact recorded by the environmental monitoring activities which represent levels at which a prescribed response is required.  These Levels are quantitatively defined later in the relevant sections of this manual and described in principle below:

Action Levels: beyond which there is a clear indication of a deteriorating ambient environment for which appropriate remedial actions are likely to be necessary to prevent environmental quality from falling outside the Limit Levels, which would be unacceptable; and

Limit Levels: statutory and/or agreed contract limits stipulated in the relevant pollution control ordinances, HKPSG or Environmental Quality Objectives established by the EPD.  If these are exceeded, works will not proceed without appropriate remedial action, including a critical review of plant and working methods.

2.2.4                                Event and Action Plans

The purpose of the Event and Action Plans (EAPs) is to provide, in association with the monitoring and audit activities, procedures for ensuring that if any significant environmental incident (either accidental or through inadequate implementation of mitigation measures on the part of the Contractor(s)) does occur, the cause will be quickly identified and remediated, and the risk of a similar event recurring is reduced.  This also applies to the exceedances of A/L criteria identified in the EM&A programme.

2.2.5                                Site Inspections

In addition to monitoring water quality and marine ecology as a means of assessing the ongoing performance of the Contractor(s), the ET will undertake site inspections and audits of on-site practices and procedures twice per month.  The primary objective of the inspection and audit programme will be to assess the effectiveness of the environmental controls established by the Contractor(s) and the implementation of the environmental mitigation measures recommended in the EIA Report.  The IEC will undertake monthly site inspection and audit to assess the performance of the Contractor(s).

Whilst the audit and inspection programme will undoubtedly complement the monitoring activity with regard to the effectiveness of controlling impacts to water quality and marine ecology, the criteria against which the audits will be undertaken will be derived from the Clauses within the Contract Documents which seek to enforce the recommendations of the EIA Report and the established management systems.

The findings of site inspections and audits will be made known to the Contractor(s) at the time of the inspection to enable the rapid resolution of identified non-conformities.  Non-conformities, and the corrective actions undertaken, will also be reported in the monthly EM&A Reports.

Section 12 of this Manual presents details of the scope and frequency of on-site inspections and defines the range of issues that the audit protocols will be designed to address.

 

2.2.6                                Enquiries, Complaint and Requests for Information

Enquiries, complaints and requests for information may occur from a wide range of individuals and organisations including members of the public, Government departments, the press and television media and community groups.

Enquiries concerning the environmental effects of the construction works, irrespective of how they are received, will be reported to CAPCO and directed to the ET which will set up procedures for the handling, investigation and storage of such information.  The following steps will then be followed:

1)   The ET Leader will notify CAPCO of the nature of the enquiry.

2)   An investigation will be initiated to determine the validity of the complaint and to identify the source of the issue.

3)   The Contractor(s) will undertake the following steps, as necessary:

i)       Investigate and identify source of the issue;

ii)     If considered necessary by CAPCO following consultation with the IEC, undertake additional monitoring to verify the existence and severity of the alleged complaint;

iii)    Liaise with EPD to identify remedial measures;

iv)   Liaise with the IEC to identify remedial measures;

v)     Implement the agreed mitigation measures;

vi)   Repeat the monitoring to verify effectiveness of mitigation measures; and

vii)  Repeat review procedures to identify further practical areas of improvement if the repeat monitoring results continue to substantiate the complaint.

4)   The outcome of the investigation and the action taken will be documented on a complaint log (Annex C).  A formal response to each complaint received will be prepared by the Contractor(s) within five working days and submitted to CAPCO, in order to notify the concerned person(s) that action has been taken.

5)   Enquires which trigger this process will be reported in the monthly reports which will include results of inspections undertaken by the Contractor(s), and details of the measures taken, and additional monitoring results (if deemed necessary).  It should be noted that the receipt of complaint or enquiry will not be, in itself, a sufficient reason to introduce additional mitigation measures.

The complainant will be notified of the findings, and audit procedures will be put in place to ensure that the issue does not recur.

2.2.7                                Reporting

Baseline, construction phase and post-construction phase monitoring, monthly, quarterly and final reports will be prepared and certified by the ET Leader and verified by the IEC.  The reports will be submitted to the Contractor(s), CAPCO and EPD.  The monthly reports will be prepared and submitted within two weeks of the end of each calendar month.

2.2.8                                Cessation of EM&A

The cessation of EM&A programme is subject to the satisfactory completion of the EM&A Final Review Report, agreement with the IEC and approval from EPD.

2.3                                      Operation Phase EM&A

Based on the findings of the EIA no operation phase EM&A is considered necessary.  However, other operational licenses will require specific monitoring or audit conditions or practices, and a non EIA EM&A practice will need to be put in place.

 

3                                            Air Quality

3.1                                      Introduction

The EIA study has concluded that dust monitoring is recommended at the Administration Building of the existing Black Point Power Station as a counter check to this assessment.  24-hour TSP measurement will be conducted by High Volume Sampling (HVS) once every 6 days throughout the site formation works.  Should exceedance is recorded, 1-hour TSP monitoring is recommended.

Dust levels will be reduced through the implementation of mitigation measures.  During the operational phase, emissions will be controlled by integrated measures, regular inspections, relevant emissions licenses and are not predicted to yield concentrations that would lead to significant air quality impacts.  Therefore, no air quality monitoring will be required for the phase aside from that required by specific emissions licenses.

3.2                                      Dust Monitoring

3.2.1                                Parameters

Monitoring of the Total Suspended Particulates (TSP) levels shall be carried out by the ET to ensure that construction works are not generating dust which exceeds the acceptable level.  Timely action should be taken to rectify the situation if an exceedance is detected.

According to the recommendations in the EIA, 24-hour TSP levels shall be measured to indicate the impacts of construction dust on air quality during site formation works.  The TSP levels shall be measured by following the standard high volume sampling method as set out in the Title 40 of the Code of Federal Regulations, Chapter 1 (Part 50), Appendix B.  Upon approval by CAPCO and the Environmental Protection Department (DEP). 

All relevant data including temperature, pressure, weather conditions, elapsed-time meter reading for the start and stop of the sampler, identification and weight of the filter paper, any other special phenomena and work progress of the concerned site shall be recorded in detail by the ET.  A sample data log sheet is shown in Annex E.

3.2.2                                Monitoring Equipment

 

A high volume sampler in compliance with the following specifications shall be used for carrying out the 1-hr and 24-hr TSP monitoring:

 

(i)  0.6-1.7 m3/min (20-60 SCFM) adjustable flow range;

 

(ii) equipped with a timing/control device with +/- 5 minutes accuracy for 24 hours operation;

 

(iii) installed with elapsed-time meter with +/- 2 minutes accuracy for 24 hours operation;

 

(iv) capable of providing a minimum exposed area of 406 cm2 (63 in2);

 

(v) flow control accuracy: +/- 2.5% deviation over 24-hr sampling period;

 

(vi) equipped with a shelter to protect the filter and sampler;

 

(vii) incorporated with an electronic mass flow rate controller or other equivalent devices;

 

(viii) equipped with a flow recorder for continuous monitoring;

 

(ix) provided with a peaked roof inlet;

 

(x)   equipped with a manometer;

 

(xi) able to hold and seal the filter paper to the sampler housing in a horizontal position;

 

(xii) easy to change the filter; and

 

(xiii)  capable of operating continuously for 24-hr period.

 

The Contractor(s) is responsible for provision of the monitoring equipment and shall ensure that sufficient number of high volume samplers with an appropriate calibration kit are available for carrying out the baseline monitoring, impact monitoring and ad hoc monitoring.  The high volume samplers shall be equipped with an electronic mass flow controller and be calibrated against a traceable standard at regular intervals.  All the equipment, calibration kit, filter papers, etc. shall be clearly labelled by the ET.

Calibration of dust monitoring equipment shall be conducted by the ET upon installation and thereafter at bi-monthly intervals.  The transfer standard shall be traceable to the internationally recognised primary standard and be calibrated annually.  The calibration data shall be properly documented for future reference by concerned parties, such as the IC(E).  All the data shall be converted into standard temperature and pressure condition.

The flow-rate of the sampler before and after the sampling exercise with the filter in position shall be verified to be constant and recorded in the data sheet as described in Section 3.2.1.

If the ET proposes to use a direct reading dust meter to measure 1-hr TSP levels on an ad hoc basis, he shall submit sufficient information to the IC(E) to prove that the instrument is capable of achieving a comparable result as that the High Volume Sampler (HVS) and may be used for the 1-hr sampling.  The instrument should also be calibrated regularly and the 1-hr sampling shall be checked periodically by the HVS to check the validity and accuracy of the results measured by the direct reading method.

Wind data monitoring equipment shall also be provided and set up at suitable locations for logging wind speed and wind direction near to the dust monitoring locations.  The equipment installation location shall be proposed by the ET and agreed with CAPCO, in consultation with the IC(E).

For installation and operation of wind data monitoring equipment, the following points shall be observed:

·      the wind sensors should be installed on masts at an elevated level 10 m above ground so that they are clear of obstructions or turbulence caused by the buildings;

·      the wind data should be captured by a data logger to be down-loaded for processing at least once a month;

·      the wind data monitoring equipment should be re-calibrated at least once every six months; and

·      wind direction should be divided into 16 sectors of 22.5 degrees each.

In exceptional situations, the ET may propose alternative methods to obtain representative wind data upon approval from CAPCO and agreement from the IC(E).

3.2.3                                Laboratory Measurement/Analysis

A clean laboratory with constant temperature and humidity control and equipped with necessary measuring and conditioning instruments shall be used for sample analysis and equipment calibration and maintenance. The laboratory shall be HOKLAS accredited.

If a site laboratory is set up or a non-HOKLAS accredited laboratory is hired for carrying out the laboratory analysis, the laboratory equipment shall be approved by CAPCO, in consultation with the IC(E). Measurement performed by the laboratory shall be demonstrated to the satisfaction of the CAPCO and the IC(E). The IC(E) shall conduct regular audits of the measurements performed by the laboratory to ensure the accuracy of the results.  The ET shall provide CAPCO and the IC(E) with one copy each of the Title 40 of the Code of Federal Regulations, Chapter 1 (Part 50), Appendix B for reference.

Filter paper of size 8"x10" shall be labelled before sampling. It shall be a clean filter paper with no pin holes and shall be conditioned in a humidity controlled chamber for over 24-hr and be pre-weighed before use for the sampling.

After sampling, the filter paper loaded with dust shall be kept in a clean and tightly sealed plastic bag.  The filter paper shall then be returned to the laboratory for reconditioning in the humidity controlled chamber followed by accurate weighing by an electronic balance with a readout down to 0.1 mg.  The balance shall be regularly calibrated against a traceable standard.

All the collected samples shall be kept in a good condition for 6 months before disposal.

3.2.4                                Monitoring Location

The air quality sensitive receivers as determined by the EIA are shown in Figures 3.1 and the recommended dust monitoring location is at the Administration Building in the Site (Figure 3.2).  The status and location of dust sensitive receivers may change after issue of this manual.  If this happens, the ET shall propose updated monitoring location and seek approval from CAPCO and agreement from IC(E).

When alternative monitoring locations are proposed, the following preferred locations and factors shall be considered:

·       the site boundary or locations close to the major dust emission source;

·       close to the sensitive receptors; and

·       the prevailing meteorological conditions.

The ET shall agree with CAPCO, in consultation with the IC(E), the position of the high volume samplers.  When positioning the samplers, the following points shall be noted:

·       a horizontal platform with appropriate support to secure the samplers against gusty wind shall be provided;

·       the distance between the sampler and an obstacle, such as buildings, shall be at least twice the height that the obstacle protrudes above the sampler;

·       a minimum of 2 metres of separation from walls, parapets and penthouses is required for rooftop samplers;

·       a minimum of 2 metres separation from any supporting structure, measured horizontally is required;

·       no furnace or incinerator flue is nearby;

·       airflow around the sampler is unrestricted;

·       the sampler is more than 20 metres from the dripline;

·       any wire fence and gate, to protect the sampler, shall not cause any obstruction during monitoring;

·       permission must be obtained to set up the samplers and to obtain access to the monitoring stations;

·       a secured supply of electricity is needed to operate the samplers; and

·       no two samplers should be placed less than 2 metres apart.

Prior to construction, the dust monitoring schedule shall be developed by the ET based upon the construction schedule supplied by the Contractor.  The ET shall inform the IC(E) of the impact monitoring programme such that he can conduct on-site audits to ensure accuracy of the impact monitoring results. The environmental monitoring schedule shall be approved by CAPCO.

3.2.5                                Baseline Monitoring

The ET shall carry out baseline monitoring at the Administration Building as shown in Figure 3.2.

This location has been selected as they represent properties which are closest to the works and/or are particularly sensitive to impacts and are representative of the adjacent properties.  The monitoring at these locations shall be undertaken for at least 14 consecutive days prior to the start of the construction works to obtain daily 24-hr TSP samples.  1-hr sampling shall also be carried out at least 3 times per day during the same period.  Monitoring shall take place within a 3 week period prior to the commencement of construction works.

During the baseline monitoring, there should not be any construction or dust generation activities in the vicinity of the monitoring stations.

In case the baseline monitoring cannot be carried out at the designated monitoring locations during the baseline monitoring period, the ET Leader shall carry out the monitoring at alternative locations which can effectively represent the baseline conditions at the impact monitoring locations. The alternative baseline monitoring locations shall be approved by CAPCO, IC(E) and agreed with DEP.

In the event that insufficient baseline monitoring data or questionable results are obtained, the ET shall liaise with the DEP to agree on an appropriate set of data to be used as a baseline reference and submit this data to CAPCO and IC(E) for approval.

Ambient conditions may vary seasonally and shall be reviewed at three monthly intervals.  If the ET considers that the ambient conditions have changed and a repeat of the baseline monitoring is required to be carried out for obtaining updated baseline levels, the monitoring should be at times when the Contractor's activities are not generating dust, at least in the proximity of the monitoring stations.  Should a change in ambient conditions be determined, the baseline levels and, in turn, the air quality criteria, shall be revised.  The revised baseline levels and air quality criteria shall be agreed with the DEP and supplied to the IC(E).

3.2.6                                Impact Monitoring

The ET shall carry out impact monitoring during the course of the works.  According to the recommendations in the EIA, 24-hour TSP levels shall be measured to indicate the impacts of construction dust on air quality during site formation works.  For regular impact monitoring, the sampling frequency of at least once in every six days shall be strictly observed at six of the designated monitoring stations for 24-hr TSP monitoring.  The station to be monitored should be selected based on the prevailing wind direction and their proximity to the active construction works.

The specific time to start and stop the 24-hr TSP monitoring shall be clearly defined for the location and be strictly followed by the operator.

In case of non-compliance with the air quality criteria, more frequent monitoring, as specified in the Action Plan in Section 3.2.7 shall be conducted within 24 hours after the non-compliance is detected. This additional monitoring shall be continued until the excessive dust emission or the deterioration in air quality is rectified.

3.2.7                                Event and Action Plan for Air Quality

The baseline monitoring results will form the basis for determining the air quality criteria for the impact monitoring.  The ET shall compare the impact monitoring results with air quality criteria set up for 24-hour TSP and 1-hour TSP (only required during exceedances).  Table 3.1 shows the air quality criteria, namely Action and Limit levels to be used.  Should non-compliance with the air quality criteria occur, the ET, the IC(E) and CAPCO and the Contractor(s) shall undertake their specified actions in accordance with the Action Plan shown in Table 3.2.

Table 3.1        Action and Limit Levels for Air Quality

Parameters

Action

Limit

24 Hour TSP Level in g/m3

For baseline level #200 g/m3, Action level = (Baseline * 1.3 + Limit Level)/2;

260

1 Hour TSP Level in g/m3

For baseline level #384 g/m3, Action level = (Baseline*1.3 + Limit Level)/2;

For baseline level > 384 g/m3, Action Level = Limit Level

500

 

In case of non-compliance with the air quality criteria, more frequent monitoring exercise, shall be conducted within 24 hours after the result is obtained.  This additional monitoring shall be continued until the excessive dust emission or the deterioration in air quality is rectified.  The Event/Action Plan for air quality is given in the attached Table 3.2.

The Independent Checker (Environment) (IC(E)) shall be empowered to audit the environmental performance of construction, all aspects of the EM&A programme, validate and confirm the accuracy of monitoring results, monitoring equipment, monitoring locations and procedures.  If any exceedance occur, the IC(E) shall follow the actions stated in the Event and Action Plan in Table 3.2.

3.3                                      Air Quality Mitigation Measures

Regular site inspections should be carried out during the construction phase in order to ensure that the mitigation measures are implemented and are working effectively.  The Contractor(s) will be responsible for the design and implementation of the mitigation measures which are presented in Annex A

 

Table 3.2       Event / Action Plan for Air Quality

 

EVENT

ACTION

ET(1)

IC(E)(1)

CAPCO

Contractor(s)

Action Level

 

 

 

 

1. Exceedance for one sample

1.  Identify the source.

2.  Inform the IC(E) and the ER.

3.  Repeat measurement to confirm finding.

4.  Increase monitoring frequency to daily.

1.   Check monitoring data submitted by the ES.

2.   Check Contractor’s working method.

1.   Notify Contractor.

1.   Rectify any unacceptable practice

2.   Amend working methods if appropriate

2. Exceedance for two or more consecutive samples

1.  Identify the source.

2.  Inform the IC(E) and the ER.

3.  Repeat measurements to confirm findings.

4.  Increase monitoring frequency to daily.

5.  Discuss with the IC(E) and the  Contractor on remedial actions required.

6.  If exceedance continues, arrange meeting with the IC(E) and the ER.

7.  If exceedance stops, cease additional monitoring.

1.   Check monitoring data submitted by the ES.

2.   Check the Contractor’s working method.

3.   Discuss with the ES and the  Contractor on possible remedial measures.

4.   Advise the ER on the effectiveness of the proposed remedial measures.

5.   Supervisor implementation of remedial measures.

1.   Confirm receipt of notification of failure in writing.

2.   Notify the Contractor.

3.   Ensure remedial measures properly implemented.

1.   Submit proposals for remedial actions to IC(E) within 3 working days of notification

2.   Implement the agreed proposals

3.   Amend proposal if appropriate

 

 

EVENT

          ACTION

 

ET

IC(E)

CAPCO

Contractor(s)

Limit Level

 

 

 

 

1.   Exceedance for one sample

1.  Identify the source.

2.  Inform the ER and the DEP.

3.  Repeat measurement to confirm finding.

4.  Increase monitoring frequency to daily.

5.  Assess effectiveness of Contractor’s remedial actions and keep the IC(E), the DEP and the ER informed of the results.

1.   Check monitoring data submitted by the ES.

2.   Check Contractor’s working method.

3.   Discuss with the ES and the  Contractor on possible remedial measures.

4.   Advise the ER on the effectiveness of the proposed remedial measures.

5.   Supervisor implementation of remedial measures.

1.   Confirm receipt of notification of failure in writing.

2.   Notify the Contractor.

3.   Ensure remedial measures are properly implemented.

1.   Take immediate action to avoid further exceedance

2.   Submit proposals for remedial actions to IC(E) within 3 working days of notification

3.   Implement the agreed proposals

4.   Amend proposal if appropriate

2.   Exceedance for two or more consecutive samples

1.  Notify the IC(E), the ER, the DEP and the Contractor.

2.  Identify the source.

3.  Repeat measurements to confirm findings.

4.  Increase monitoring frequency to daily.

5.  Carry out analysis of the  Contractor’s working procedures to determine possible mitigation to be implemented.

6.  Arrange meeting with the IC(E) and the ER to discuss the remedial actions to be taken.

7.  Assess effectiveness of the  Contractor’s remedial actions and keep the IC(E), the DEP and the ER informed of the results.

8.  If exceedance stops, cease additional monitoring.

1.   Discuss amongst the ER, ES and the Contractor on the potential remedial actions.

2.   Review the Contractor’s remedial actions whenever necessary to assure their effectiveness and advise the ER accordingly.

3.   Supervise the implementation of remedial measures.

1.   Confirm receipt of notification of failure in writing.

2.   Notify the Contractor.

3.   In consultation with the IC(E), agree with the Contractor on the remedial measures to be implemented.

4.   Ensure remedial measures are properly implemented.

5.   If exceedance continues, consider what activity of the work is responsible and instruct the Contractor to stop that activity of work until the exceedance is abated.

1.   Take immediate action to avoid further exceedance.

2.   Submit proposals for remedial actions to IC(E) within 3 working days of notification.

3.   Implement the agreed proposals.

4.   Resubmit proposals if problem still not under control.

5.   Stop the relevant activity of works as determined by the ER until the exceedance is abated.

Note:  ET – Environmental Team, IC(E) – Independent Checker (Environmental)

 

4                                            Noise

4.1                                      Introduction

The EIA study of the Project has concluded that no sensitive receivers will be affected by construction noise.  Based upon this, no noise monitoring is considered necessary during the construction phase.  However, audit of the construction noise is recommended. 

4.2                                      Noise Mitigation Measures

Regular site inspections should be carried out to audit the compliance of the Contractor(s) with regard to noise control, contract conditions and the relevant noise impact criteria, and to recommend further mitigation measures if found to be necessary.

No operational phase noise impacts were predicted at sensitive receiver locations and hence no operational phase monitoring is required.

 

5                                            Water Quality

5.1                                      Introduction

In accordance with the recommendations of the EIA, water quality EM&A is required during dredging activities.  In addition, baseline water quality monitoring will be required prior to the commencement of construction activities.  The following Section provides details of the water quality monitoring to be undertaken by the ET to verify the distance of sediment plume dispersion and to identify whether the potential exists for any indirect impacts to occur to ecological sensitive receivers.  The water quality monitoring programme will be carried out to ensure that any deteriorating water quality is readily detected and timely action taken to rectify the situation.  The status and locations of water quality sensitive receivers and the marine works location may change after issuing this Manual.  If required, the ET in consultation with the Contractor(s) will propose updated monitoring locations and seek approval from CAPCO, the IEC and EPD.

5.2                                      Sampling Methodology

5.2.1                                Water Quality Parameters

Measurements of Dissolved Oxygen (DO) concentration (mg L-1), DO saturation (%), Salinity (mg L-1), Temperature (ºC) and Turbidity (NTU) will be taken in situ by the ET at monitoring stations identified in Sections 5.2.4 and 5.3 below.  Water samples for the measurements of SS (mg L-1) will also be collected for laboratory analysis. 

In addition to the water quality parameters, other relevant data will also be measured and recorded in Water Quality Monitoring Logs (Annex D), including the location of the sampling stations, water depth, time, weather conditions, sea conditions, tidal stage, current direction and speed, special phenomena and work activities undertaken around the monitoring and works area that may influence the monitoring results.  Observations on any special phenomena and work underway at the construction site at the time of sampling will also be recorded.

5.2.2                                Sampling Procedures and Monitoring Equipment

For water quality monitoring, the following equipment will be supplied and used by the ET. The use of similar equipment is subject to prior approval from the IEC:

·       Dissolved Oxygen and Temperature Measuring Equipment - The instrument will be a portable, weatherproof dissolved oxygen measuring instrument complete with cable, sensor, comprehensive operation manuals, and will be operable from a DC power source.  It will be capable of measuring:  dissolved oxygen levels in the range of 0 - 20 mg L-1 and 0 - 200% saturation; and a temperature of 0 - 45 degrees Celsius.  It will have a membrane electrode with automatic temperature compensation complete with a cable of not less than 35 m in length.  Sufficient stocks of spare electrodes and cables will be available for replacement where necessary (e.g. YSI model 59 metre, YSI 5739 probe, YSI 5795A submersible stirrer with reel and cable or an approved similar instrument).

·       Turbidity Measurement Equipment - Turbidity within the water will be measured in situ by the nephelometric method.  The instrument will be a portable, weatherproof turbidity-measuring unit complete with cable, sensor and comprehensive operation manuals.  The equipment will be operated from a DC power source, it will have a photoelectric sensor capable of measuring turbidity between 0 - 1000 NTU and will be complete with a cable with at least 35 m in length (for example Hach 2100P or an approved similar instrument).

·       Salinity Measurement Instrument - A portable salinometer capable of measuring salinity in the range of 0 - 40 ppt will be provided for measuring salinity of the water at each monitoring location.

·       Suspended Solid Measurement Equipment - A water sampler (eg Kahlsico Water Sampler), which is a PVC cylinder (capacity not less than 2 litres), which can be effectively sealed with latex cups at both ends, will be used for sampling.  The sampler will have a positive latching system to keep it open and prevent premature closure until released by a messenger when the sampler is at the selected water depth.  Water samples for suspended solids measurement will be collected in high-density polythene bottles, packed in ice (cooled to 4°C without being frozen), and delivered to the laboratory in the same day as the samples were collected.

·       Water Depth Gauge - A portable, battery-operated echo sounder (Seafarer 700 or a similar approved instrument) will be used for the determination of water depth at each designated monitoring station.  This unit will preferably be affixed to the bottom of the work boat if the same vessel is to be used throughout the monitoring programme.  The echo sounder should be suitably calibrated.

·       pH Measuring Equipment - A portable pH meter capable of measuring a range between 0.0 and 14.0 will be provided to measure pH under the specified conditions (eg. Orion Model 250A or an approved similar instrument).

·       Positioning Device - A hand-held or boat-fixed type differential Global Positioning System (DGPS) or other equivalent instrument of similar accuracy will be used during monitoring to ensure the accurate recording of the position of the monitoring vessel before taking measurements.  The DGPS or equivalent instrument, should be suitably calibrated at appropriate checkpoint (e.g. Quarry Bay Survey Nail at Easting 840683.49), Northing 816709.55) to ensure the monitoring station is at the correct position before the water quality monitoring commence.  Marine anchors will not be used when sampling the impact stations within or on the boundaries of the Lung Kwu Chau and Sha Chau Marine Park.

·       Water Sampling Equipment - A water sampler, consisting of a PVC or glass cylinder of not less than two litres, which can be effectively sealed with cups at both ends, will be used (e.g. Kahlsico Water Sampler 13SWB203 or an approved similar instrument).  The water sampler will have a positive latching system to keep it open and prevent premature closure until released by a messenger when the sampler is at the selected water depth. 

In-situ monitoring instruments will be checked, calibrated and certified by a laboratory accredited under HOKLAS or any other international accreditation scheme before use, and subsequently re-calibrated at 3 monthly intervals throughout the stages of the water quality monitoring.  Responses of sensors and electrodes will be checked with certified standard solutions before each use.  Wet bulb calibration for the DO meter will be carried out before measurement at each monitoring location.  The turbidity meter will be calibrated to establish the relationship between turbidity readings (in NTU) and levels of SS (in mg L-1) where possible.

For the on site calibration of field equipment, the BS 1427:1993, "Guide to Field and on-site test methods for the analysis of waters" will be observed.

Sufficient stocks of spare parts will be maintained for replacements when necessary.  Back-up monitoring equipment will also be available so that monitoring can proceed uninterrupted even when some equipment is under maintenance, calibration, etc.

5.2.3                                Laboratory Measurement and Analysis

Analysis of suspended solids will be carried out in a HOKLAS or other international accredited laboratory.  Water samples of about 500mL will be collected at the monitoring stations for carrying out the laboratory SS determination.  The SS determination work will start within 24 hours after collection of the water samples.  The analyses will follow the standard methods as described in APHA Standard Methods for the Examination of Water and Wastewater, 19th Edition, unless otherwise specified (APHA 2540D for SS) with a detection limit of 1 mg L-1 or less.

The submitted information should include the chain of custody forms, pre-treatment procedures, instrument use, Quality Assurance/Quality Control (QA/QC) details (such as blank, spike recovery, number of duplicate samples per-batch etc), detection limits and accuracy.  The QA/QC details will be in accordance with requirements of HOKLAS or another internationally accredited scheme that HOKLAS has an agreement with.  The limits of detection for the in-situ and laboratory measurements that will be obtained are shown in Table 5.1.

 

Table 5.1        Detection Limits and Precision for Water Quality Parameters

Parameter

Limit of Detection

Dissolved Oxygen

0.1 mg L-1

Salinity

0.01 ppt

Temperature

0.1 °C

pH

0.01 units

Turbidity (NTU)

0.1 NTU

Suspended Solids

1 mg L-1

 

5.2.4                                Monitoring Locations, Frequency and Actions - Pilot Test

Introduction

In order to verify the modelling predictions in the EIA Report a pilot test will be established during the dredging works at a suitable location to be agreed with EPD and AFCD.  The pilot test will consist of intensive water quality monitoring on the first three days of the dredging operation designed to verify the predictions from the modelling work.  Pilot test will also include the testing on the effectiveness of silt curtains with reference to the reduction factors used in the water quality models.

The details below are indicative and will be agreed with AFCD and EPD in advance of conduct of the pilot test.

Stations

Three sets of monitoring stations will be arranged perpendicularly to the dredging works with respect to the three days monitoring.  Monitoring locations will be fixed throughout the whole day of monitoring. 

Frequency

Monitoring should be conducted hourly of turbidity and suspended solids (SS) for correlation (the methods for taking and analysing the samples should be as presented above). 

Each station will be sampled and measurements will be taken at three depths, 1 m below the sea surface, mid depth and 1 m above the seabed.  Where water depth is less than 6 m the mid-depth station may be omitted.  If water depth is less than 3 m, only the mid-depth station will be monitored.  Duplicate water samples shall be taken and analyzed at all monitoring stations.

Reporting

The turbidity monitoring results should be submitted on a daily basis and the SS results should be submitted within 24 hours of collection by the ET Leader to EPD and AFCD for review. 

Actions

The results of the pilot test will be utilised to indicate how the dredging works are performing in comparison to the modelling predictions presented in the EIA.  The results will act essentially as an early warning tool to advise the Contractor how the dredging/jetting plant is performing.  Should the results indicate that the modelling predictions are being exceeded then the Contractor will be able to take remedial action. 

It should be noted that the Contractor is not obliged to reduce the dredging rates based on the results of the pilot test but is strongly advised to review their working methods and take remedial measures prior to any exceedances being triggered during actual construction work. 

5.2.5                                Monitoring Locations for Dredging and Backfilling Activities

Water quality monitoring will be conducted within Hong Kong Waters during dredging and backfilling activities.  The monitoring stations for dredging and backfilling activities are shown in Figure 5.1 and detailed in Table 5.2. 

The monitoring locations were determined based upon the locations of the dredging/backfilling activities which would be required for the reclamation as well as for the approach channel.  As seen in Figure 5.1, Impact Stations are defined as at a distance of approximately 500 m away from the construction works area.  Depending on the works this typically represents the maximum extent of the zone of influence resulting from the dredging activities.  At the Impact locations, impact from the dredging activities should be at minimum.

In addition, Reference Stations have been chosen to facilitate comparison of the water quality of the Impact Stations with ambient water quality conditions, Reference Stations are located in areas not expected to be affected by other projects and which lie within the path of water body movements affecting the Impact Stations but are well outside the predicted influence of the construction works.  Monitoring data from these Reference Stations could be used as upstream and downstream controls for the Impact stations. 

Locations of Reference Stations would be subject to change depending on the location and timing of dredging and other marine works projects in the Study Area.  Any proposal to change the locations of Control / Impact Stations would be subject to IEC verification and the EPD’s approval.

Apart from the Impact and Reference Stations, Control Stations have been proposed to assist in the identification of the source of any impact.  They are approximately 1500 m away from the construction works area and 500 m away from the Impact Stations.  Control Stations are particularly useful for the identification of the pollution source and pathway if exceedances are found at Impact Stations but not at the Reference Stations.

In addition, water quality monitoring will also be conducted at the Sensitive Receiver Stations including Non-gazetted beach at Lung Kwu Sheung Tan (M1), Seawater intake at Black Point Power Station (M2) and Intertidal mudflat/horseshoe crab nursery ground at Pak Nai (M3) when dredging works are located close to these locations.

 

Table 5.2        Location of Marine Water Quality Monitoring Stations for Dredging Activities

Monitoring Station Identification

Type

Location

Coordinates

IE1 (ebb)

Impact

South of Black Point

Please refer to Figure 5.1

IE2 (ebb)

Impact

Southwest of Black Point

Please refer to Figure 5.1

IF1 (flood)

Impact

North of Black Point

Please refer to Figure 5.1

IF2 (flood)

Impact

Northwest of Black Point

Please refer to Figure 5.1

CE1 (ebb)

Control

South of Black Point

Please refer to Figure 5.1

CE2 (ebb)

Control

Southwest of Black Point

Please refer to Figure 5.1

CF1 (flood)

Control

North of Black Point

Please refer to Figure 5.1

CF2 (flood)

Control

Northwest of Black Point

Please refer to Figure 5.1

R1

Reference

Northeast of Marine Park

Please refer to Figure 5.1

R2

Reference

Northwest of Black Point

Please refer to Figure 5.1

M1

Non-gazetted Beach (Sensitive Receiver)

South of Black Point

Please refer to Figure 5.1

M2

Seawater Intake (Sensitive Receiver)

Northeast of Black Point

Please refer to Figure 5.1

M3

Intertidal/horseshoe Crab (Sensitive Receiver)

Pak Nai, Northeast of Black Point

Please refer to Figure 5.1

Water quality monitoring would be undertaken by suitably qualified members of the ET.  Water quality monitoring results from the Reference, Control and Impact stations would be compared to EPD’s Water Quality Objectives (WQOs), for the North West (NWWCZ) and Deep Bay Water Control Zones (DBWCZ), as follows:

·      Suspended Solids (SS):  SS should not be raised above ambient levels by an excess of 30% nor cause the accumulation of SS which may adversely affect aquatic communities.

·      Dissolved Oxygen (DO):  DO within 2 m of the bottom should not be less than 2 mg L-1 for 90% of the samples; depth averaged DO should not be less than 4 mg L-1 for 90% of the samples during the whole year.

Prior to the commencement of the EM&A programme, the ET would seek approval of the proposed changes to the water monitoring stations from the IEC, EPD and AFCD.

5.3                                      Baseline Monitoring

Baseline monitoring will be conducted to collect representative water quality data from the areas where marine works will be undertaken.  This baseline monitoring will provide data for comparison with water quality data collected during impact monitoring works.

Baseline monitoring will be conducted at Impact (IE1, IF1, IE2 and IF2), Control stations (CE1, CF1, CF1 and CF2), Reference stations (R1 and R2) as well as Receiver Stations (M1, M2 and M3) specified in Table 5.2 three times a week at mid-flood and mid-ebb tides for four consecutive weeks prior to the commencement of any marine works for the Project.  The tidal range selected for the baseline monitoring should be at least 0.5m for both flood and ebb tides.  There shall not be any marine construction activities in the vicinity of the stations during the baseline monitoring.  The interval between 2 sets of consecutive monitoring shall not be less than 36 hours.  Baseline monitoring will commence no earlier than two months before construction works are due to commence.  Baseline monitoring programme should be passed to EPD at least two weeks prior to commencement of baseline monitoring.

During baseline monitoring, measurements will be taken at each station at three depths, 1 m below the sea surface, mid depth and 1 m above the seabed.  Where water depth is less than 6 m the mid-depth station may be omitted.  If water depth is less than 3 m, only the mid-depth station will be monitored, to avoid natural resuspension of sediments from confounding the results.

The ET will be responsible for undertaking the baseline monitoring and submitting the results within 10 working days from the completion of the baseline monitoring work to the IEC for certification prior to onward transmission to EPD and AFCD. 

5.4                                      Impact Monitoring

During the course of the marine works, impact monitoring would be undertaken at the relevant Reference, Control and Impact Stations three times a week as shown in Figure 5.1 and Table 5.2.   Monitoring at each station would be undertaken at both mid-ebb and mid-flood tides on the same day.  The tidal range selected for the baseline monitoring should be at least 0.5m for both flood and ebb tides.  The interval between two sets of monitoring would not be less than 36 hours.  The monitoring frequency would be increased in the case of exceedances of Action/Limit Levels if considered necessary by ET and IEC.  Monitoring frequency would be maintained as far as practicable.  Impact monitoring schedule should be passed to EPD at least two weeks prior to commencement of impact monitoring.

Two consecutive measurements of DO concentration (mgL-1), DO saturation (%) and turbidity (NTU) would be taken in-situ according the stated sampling method.  The monitoring probes would be retrieved out of water after the first measurement and then redeployed for the second measurement.

Where the difference in value between the first and second measurement of DO or turbidity parameters is more than 25% of the value of the first reading, the reading would be discarded and further readings would be taken.  Water samples for SS (mgL-1) measurements would be collected at the same depths and as for the in-situ measurements, duplicates would be taken at Impact, Control and Reference Stations.

In addition to the above in-situ measurements temperature and salinity would be determined at the Impact, Control and Reference Stations at the same depths, as specified above.

The monitoring location/position, time, water depth, water temperature, salinity, weather conditions, sea conditions, tidal stage, special phenomena and work underway at the marine works site will be recorded.

Upon completion of all marine construction activities, a post-project water quality monitoring exercise would be carried out for four weeks, in the same manner as the baseline monitoring.

5.5                                      Water Quality Compliance

Water quality monitoring will be evaluated against Action and Limit Levels.  The key assessment parameters are dissolved oxygen and suspended sediment and thus Action and Limit Levels based on the assessment criteria are identified for these.  However turbidity can also provide valuable instantaneous information on water quality and thus an Action Limit is also recommended for this parameter to facilitate quick responsive action in the event of any apparent unacceptable deterioration attributable to the works.  The proposed Action and Limit Levels are shown in Table 5.3.

Action and Limit levels are used to determine whether operational modifications are necessary to mitigate impacts to water quality.  In the event that the levels are exceeded, appropriate actions in Event and Action Plan (Table 5.4) should be undertaken and a review of works should be carried out by the Contractor(s). 

Any noticeable change to water quality will be recorded in the survey reports and will be investigated and remedial actions will be undertaken to reduce impacts.  Particular attention will be paid to the Contractor(s)’s implementation of the recommended mitigation measures. 


Table 5.3        Action and Limit Levels for Water Quality

Parameters

Action (mg L-1)

Limit (mg L-1)

For all marine construction works

DO in mgL-1 (surface, middle, bottom)

 

Data from impact stations show a depletion of 30% compared with corresponding data from reference stations

 

DO levels are < 5 mgL-1 at the surface and middle depths or are < 2 mg L-1 for the bottom depth.

 

 

Turbidity in NTU in mg L-1

(depth averaged)

120% of reference station’s mean Turbidity (at the same tide of the same day)

130% of reference station’s mean turbidity (at the same tide of the same day)

 

 

 

Suspended Solids in mg L-1

(depth averaged),

120% of reference station’s mean SS (at the same tide of the same day).

 

130% of reference station’s mean SS (at the same tide of the same day)

 

 

 

Notes:           

-     For DO, exceedance of the water quality limits occurs when monitoring result is lower than the limits.

-     For SS, exceedance of the water quality limits occurs when monitoring result is higher than the limits.

-        All the figures given in the table are for reference only and these may be amended with the agreement of EPD.

-        “Depth Averaged” is calculated by taking the arithmetic mean of the in-situ parameters readings at all three depths.  For suspended solids “depth averaged” is calculated by combining all three samples into one mixed sample which is analysed to produce a physical arithmetic mean.

It should be noted that all Action Limit levels presented in Table 5.3 may be revised based on the baseline data to be collected in advance of construction works.  If deemed necessary, the ET in consultation with the Contractor(s) will propose revised Action Limit levels and seek approval from CAPCO, the IEC and EPD.

The IEC will be empowered to audit the environmental performance of construction, aspects of the EM&A programme, validate and confirm the accuracy of monitoring results, monitoring equipment, monitoring locations and procedures.  If any exceedance occurs, the ET, IEC and the Contractor(s) will follow the actions stated in the Event and Action Plan (Table 5.4).

 

Table 5.4        Event and Action Plan for Water Quality Monitoring during Construction Phase

EVENT

ACTION

ET(1)

IEC(1)

Contractor(s)

CAPCO

 

Action Level being exceeded by one sampling day

 

1.  Repeat in-situ measurement to confirm findings;

2.  Identify source(s) of impact;

3.  Inform the IEC, the Contractor(s) and CAPCO;

4.  Check monitoring data, plant, equipment and the Contractor(s)’s working methods;

5.  Discuss mitigation measures with the IEC and the Contractor(s);

 

 

1.  Discuss with the ET and the Contractor(s) on the mitigation measures;

2.  Review proposals on mitigation measures submitted by the Contractor(s) and advise CAPCO accordingly;

3.  Assess the effectiveness of the implemented mitigation measures.

 

1.   Inform CAPCO and confirm notification of the exceedance in writing;

2.   Rectify unacceptable practice;

3.   Check plant and equipment;

4.   Consider changes of working methods;

5.   Discuss with the ET and the IEC and propose mitigation measures to the IEC and CAPCO;

6.   Implement the agreed mitigation measures.

 

1. Discuss with the IEC on the proposed mitigation measures;

2. Make agreement on the mitigation measures to be implemented.

 

Action Level being exceeded by more than one consecutive sampling days

 

1.   Repeat in-situ measurement to confirm findings;

2.   Identify source(s) of impact;

3.   Inform the IEC, the Contractor(s) and CAPCO;

4.   Check monitoring data, plant, equipment and Contractor(s)’s working methods;

5.   Discuss mitigation measures with the IEC and the Contractor(s);

6.   Ensure mitigation measures are implemented;

 

 

1.   Discuss with the ET and the Contractor(s) on the mitigation measures;

2.   Review proposals on mitigation measures submitted by the Contractor(s) and advise CAPCO accordingly;

3.   Assess the effectiveness of the implemented mitigation measures.

 

1.   Inform CAPCO and confirm notification of the exceedance in writing;

2.   Rectify unacceptable practice;

3.   Check plant and equipment;

4.   Consider changes of working methods;

5.   Discuss with the ET and the IEC and propose mitigation measures to the IEC and CAPCO within 3 working days;

6.   Implement the agreed mitigation measures.

 

1.  Discuss with the IEC on the proposed mitigation measures;

2.  Make agreement on the mitigation measures to be implemented;

3.                   Assess effectiveness of the implemented mitigation measures.

 

Limit Level being exceeded by one consecutive sampling day

 

1.   Repeat in-situ measurement to confirm findings;

2.   Identify source(s) of impact;

3.   Inform the IEC, the Contractor(s) and EPD;

4.   Check monitoring data, plant, equipment and the Contractor(s)’s working methods;

5.   Discuss mitigation measures with the IEC, CAPCO and the Contractor(s);

6.   Ensure mitigation measures are implemented;

 

 

1.  Discuss with the ET / Contractor(s) on the mitigation measures;

2.  Review proposals on mitigation measures submitted by the Contractor(s) and advise CAPCO accordingly;

3.  Assess the effectiveness of the implemented mitigation measures.

 

1.    Immediate stoppage of works;

2.   Inform CAPCO and confirm notification of the exceedance in writing;

3.    Rectify unacceptable practice;

4.    Check plant and equipment;

5.    Consider changes of working methods;

6.    Discuss with the ET, the IEC and CAPCO and propose mitigation measures to the IEC and CAPCO within 3 working days;

7.    Implement the agreed mitigation measures.

 

1.   Discuss with the IEC, the ET and the Contractor(s) on the proposed mitigation measures;

2.   Request the Contractor(s) to critically review the working methods;

3.   Make agreement on the mitigation measures to be implemented;

4.   Assess the effectiveness of the implemented mitigation measures.

 

Limit Level being exceeded by more than one consecutive sampling days

 

1.  Repeat in-situ measurement to confirm findings;

2.  Identify source(s) of impact;

3.  Inform the IEC, the Contractor(s) and DEP;

4.  Check monitoring data, plant, equipment and Contractor(s)’s working methods;

5.  Discuss mitigation measures with the IEC, CAPCO and the Contractor(s);

6.  Ensure mitigation measures are implemented;

 

 

1.  Discuss with ET and Contractor(s) on the mitigation measures;

2.  Review proposals on mitigation measures submitted by the Contractor(s) and advise CAPCO accordingly;

3.  Assess the effectiveness of the implemented mitigation measures.

 

1.  Immediate stoppage of works;

2.  Inform CAPCO and confirm notification of the exceedance in writing;

3.  Rectify unacceptable practice;

4.  Check plant and equipment;

5.  Consider changes of working methods;

6.  Discuss with the ET, the IEC and CAPCO and propose mitigation measures to the IEC and CAPCO within 3 working days;

7.  Implement the agreed mitigation measures;

8.  As directed by CAPCO, slow down or stop all or part of the construction activities.

 

1.  Discuss with the IEC, the ET and the Contractor(s) on the proposed mitigation measures;

2.  Request Contractor(s) to critically review working methods;

3.  Make agreement on the mitigation measures to be implemented;

4.  Assess effectiveness of the implemented mitigation measures;

5.  Consider and instruct, if necessary, the Contractor(s) to slow down or to stop all or part of the marine work until no exceedance of Limit Level.

Note:         (1)        ET – Environmental Team, IEC – Independent Environmental Checker

 

5.6                                      Water Quality Mitigation Measures

The EIA report has outlined a variety of recommended water quality mitigation measures.  These are summarised in the Implementation Schedule of Mitigation Measures (Annex A).

 

6                                            WASTE MANAGEMENT

6.1                                      Introduction

During the construction phase, waste management will be the Contractor(s)’s responsibility to ensure that wastes produced during the construction phase are managed in accordance with appropriate waste management practices and `EPD’s regulations and requirements.  The construction Contractor(s) will also follow the Waste Management Plan when managing the different types of wastes on site.

The Project is expected to generate the following during the construction phase:

·       Dredged marine sediment;

·       C & D Materials;

·       Chemical waste;

·       Sewage; and

·       General refuse.

Auditing of waste management practices weekly during site inspections will ensure that these solid and liquid wastes generated during construction are not disposed of into the surrounding storm drains.  The construction Contractor(s) will be responsible for the implementation of any mitigation measures to reduce waste or redress issues arising from the waste materials. 

6.2                                      Waste Management Practices

The construction Contractor(s) will submit a Waste Management Plan (WMP) for the construction works to EPD for approval.  The WMP will describe arrangements for avoidance, re-use, recover and recycling, storage, collection, treatment and disposal of different categories of waste to be generated from construction activities and will include the recommended mitigation measures on waste management detailed in Annex A of this EM&A Manual.  The WMP will indicate the disposal location(s) of all surplus excavated spoil and other waste. 

 

Prior to the commencement of dredging activities, the disposal strategy for the dredged sediment will be determined in accordance with the ETWBTC No. 34/2002: Management of Dredged/Excavated Sediment. 

 

A Trip Ticket system will be included in the WMP.  Surplus excavated spoil and other wastes will not be disposed at any other designated disposal locations unless otherwise approved in writing by EPD, Secretary of Public Fill Committee and/or other authorities as appropriate.

The Implementation Schedule (Annex A) provides details on the appropriate mitigation measures for avoiding and preventing adverse environmental impacts associated with dredged marine mud, construction and demolition (C&D) materials, chemical wastes, general refuse and sewage from the workforce.  The WMP should be refined and updated as more detailed information is generated on the volume of dredged marine mud.  Similarly, it should be regularly reviewed, and updated as appropriate, throughout the course of the construction works to ensure that it remains current with the latest detailed information and works practices.

The WMP should also outline the requirements for a waste audit program to ensure the measures outlined in the plan are effectively implemented and adhered too.

6.3                                      EM&A Requirements

In order to ensure that the construction Contractor(s) has implemented the recommendations of the EIA Report, the ET will conduct regular site audits of the waste streams, to determine if wastes are being managed in accordance with the procedures in the approved WMP.  The audits should look at the aspects of waste management including waste generation, storage, recycling, transport and disposal.  An appropriate audit programme should be undertaken with the first audit conducted at the commencement of the construction works.  Routine weekly site inspections should also include waste management.  The scope of the waste management audits is presented below.

6.3.1                                Objectives of Waste Audit

The waste management audit programme will include, but is not limited to, the following:

·      Ensuring that the wastes arising from works are handled, stored, collected, transferred and disposed of an environmentally acceptable manner and comply with the relevant requirements under the Waste Disposal Ordinance (WDO) and its regulations;

·      Ensuring that the construction Contractor(s) properly implements the appropriate environmental protection and waste pollution control mitigation measures, as outlined in the Implementation Schedule and presented in Annex A, to reduce and control the potential for waste impacts;

1)          

1) Ensuring the effective implementation of the Contractor(s)’s WMP; and

·      Encourage the reuse and recycling of materials.

6.3.2                                Methodology and Criteria

The construction Contractor(s) must ensure that the necessary disposal permits or licences are obtained from appropriate authorities in accordance with the various Ordinances.  In addition to the ET audits, each construction Contractor(s) will designate a member of staff as being responsible for inspecting and auditing the on-site waste management practices on a monthly basis, with reference to the relevant legislation and guidelines as well as the recommendations given in the Implementation Schedule contained in Annex A of this EM&A Manual, and defined below:

General Legislation

·      Waste Disposal Ordinance (Cap 354);

·      Waste Disposal (Chemical Waste) (General) Regulation (Cap 354);

·      Waste Disposal (Charges for Disposal of Construction Waste) Regulation;

·      Land (Miscellaneous Provisions) Ordinance (Cap 28);

·      Public Health and Municipal Services Ordinance (Cap 132) – Public Cleansing and Prevention of Nuisances (Urban Council) and (Regional Council) By-laws;

·      Dumping at Sea Ordinance (1995); and,

·      The storage, handling and disposal of chemical waste should be audited with reference to the requirements of the Code of Practice on the Package, Labelling and Storage of Chemical Wastes published by the EPD.

Other Relevant Guidelines

·      Waste Disposal Plan for Hong Kong (December 1989), Planning, Environment and Lands Branch Government Secretariat, Hong Kong Government;

·      Environmental Guidelines for Planning In Hong Kong (1990), Hong Kong Planning and Standards Guidelines, Hong Kong Government;

·      New Disposal Arrangements for Construction Waste (1992), Environmental Protection Department & Civil Engineering Department, Hong Kong Government;

·      Code of Practice on the Packaging, Labelling and Storage of Chemical Wastes (1992), Environmental Protection Department, Hong Kong Government;

·      Works Branch Technical Circular, 32/92, The Use of Tropical Hard Wood on Construction Site; Works Branch, Hong Kong Government;

·      Works Branch Technical Circular No. 2/93 and 2/93B, Public Dumps, Works Branch, Hong Kong Government;

·      Works Branch Technical Circular No. 16/96, Wet Soil in Public Dumps; Works Branch, Hong Kong Government;

·      Works Bureau Technical Circular No. 4/98 and 4/98A, Use of Public Fill in Reclamation and Earth Filling Projects; Works Bureau, Hong Kong SAR Government;

·      Waste Reduction Framework Plan, 1998 to 2007, Planning, Environment and Lands Bureau, Government Secretariat, 5 November 1998;

·      Works Bureau Technical Circular No. 12/2000, Fill Management; Works Bureau, Hong Kong Government;

·      Environmental Transport and Works Bureau Technical Circular No 31/2004, Trip-ticket System for Disposal of Construction and Demolition Material; Environmental Transport and Works Bureau, Hong Kong SAR Government;

·      Works Bureau Technical Circular No. 25/99A and 25/99C, Incorporation of Information on Construction and Demolition Material Management in Public Works Sub-committee Papers; Works Bureau, Hong Kong SAR Government;

·      Works Bureau Technical Circular No. 19/2001, Metallic Site Hoardings and Signboards, Works Bureau, Hong Kong SAR Government;

·      Environment, Transport and Works Bureau Technical Circular (Works) No.34/2002, Management of Dredged/Excavated Material, Environment, Transport and Works Bureau, Hong Kong SAR Government;

·      Environment, Transport and Works Bureau Technical Circular (Works) No.19 /2005, Construction Management on Construction Sites, Environment, Transport and Works Bureau, Hong Kong SAR Government;

·      Environment, Transport and Works Bureau Technical Circular (Works) No.33 /2002, Management of Construction and Demolition Material including Rock, Environment, Transport and Works Bureau, Hong Kong SAR Government;

·      Environment, Transport and Works Bureau Technical Circular (Works) No 19/2005, Environmental Management on Construction Sites, Environment, Transport and Works Bureau; and

·      Environment, Transport and Works Bureau Technical Circular (Works) No 31/2004, Trip Ticket System for Disposal of Construction & Demolition Materials, Environment, Transport and Works Bureau.

The Contractor(s)’s waste management practices will be audited with reference to the checklist detailed in Table 6.2 below:

 

Table 6.2       Waste Management Checklist

Activities

Timing

Checking Frequency

If non-compliance noted, Action Required

Necessary waste disposal permits or licences have been obtained

Before the commencement of works

Once

The ET will inform the Contractor(s), CAPCO and IEC.  The Contractor(s) should apply for the necessary permits/ licences prior to disposal of the waste.  The ET will ensure that corrective action has been taken.

Dredged sediments are managed and disposed in accordance with the ETWBTC No. 34/2002: Management of Dredged/Excavated Sediment. 

Throughout the dredging works. Sediment assessment to be completed prior to dredging

Twice a Month

 

The ET will inform the Contractor(s), CAPCO and IEC.  CAPCO will instruct the Contractor(s) to manage and dispose the dredged materials properly.  The Contractor(s) will immediately suspend dredging until the dredging materials are properly managed and disposed. 

Only licensed waste haulier are used for waste collection.

Throughout the works

Twice a Month

 

The ET will inform the Contractor(s), CAPCO and IEC.  CAPCO will instruct the Contractor(s) to use a licensed waste haulier.  The Contractor(s) will temporarily suspend waste collection of that particular waste until a licensed waste haulier is used.  Corrective action will be undertaken within 48 hours.

Records of quantities of wastes generated, recycled and disposed are properly kept.  For demolition material/waste, the number of loads for each day will be recorded (quantity of waste can then be estimated based on average truck load.  For landfill charges, the receipts of the charge could be used for estimating the quantity).

Throughout the works

Twice a Month

 

The ET will inform the Contractor(s), CAPCO and IEC.  The Contractor(s) will estimate the missing data based on previous records and the activities carried out.  The ET will audit the results and forward to CAPCO and IEC for approval.

Wastes are removed from site in a timely manner.  General refuse is collected on a daily basis.

Throughout the works

Twice a Month

 

The ET will inform the Contractor(s), CAPCO and IEC.  CAPCO will instruct the Contractor(s) to remove waste accordingly.

Waste storage areas are properly cleaned and do not cause windblown litter and dust nuisance.

Throughout the works

Twice a Month

 

The ET will inform the Contractor(s), CAPCO and IEC.  CAPCO will instruct the Contractor(s) to clean the storage area and/or cover the waste.

Different types of waste are segregated in different containers or skip to enhance recycling of material and proper disposal of waste.

Throughout the works

Twice a Month

 

The ET will inform the Contractor(s), CAPCO and IEC.  CAPCO will instruct the Contractor(s) to provide separate skips/ containers.  The Contractor(s) will ensure the workers place the waste in the appropriate containers.

Chemical wastes are stored, handled and disposed of in accordance with the Code of Practice on the Packaging, Handling and Storage of Chemical Wastes, published by the EPD.

Throughout the works

Twice a Month

 

The ET will inform the Contractor(s), CAPCO and IEC.  CAPCO will instruct the Contractor(s) to rectify the issues immediately.  Warning will be given to the Contractor(s) if corrective actions are not taken within 24 hrs.

Demolition material/waste in dump trucks are properly covered before leaving the site.

Throughout the works

Twice a Month

 

The ET will inform the Contractor(s), CAPCO and IEC.  CAPCO will instruct the Contractor(s) to comply.  The Contractor(s) will prevent trucks from leaving the site until the waste are properly covered.

Wastes are disposal of at licensed sites.

Throughout the works

Twice a Month

 

The ET will inform the Contractor(s), CAPCO and IEC.  CAPCO will warn the Contractor(s) and instruct the Contractor(s) to ensure the wastes are disposed of at the licensed sites.  Should it involve chemical waste, the Waste Control Group of EPD will be notified.

Note:  ET – Environmental Team, IEC – Independent Environmental Checker

 

6.4                                      Mitigation Measures

Details of the required mitigation measures are included within the Implementation Schedule of Annex A of this EM&A Manual.

 

 

7                                            Terrestrial Ecology

7.1                                      Introduction

The EIA study has concluded that the impact on the natural habitats is considered to be low and no adverse residual impact is expected after the implementation of the mitigation measures.  During the operational phase, adverse impacts are not expected to occur.  Therefore, no terrestrial ecology monitoring will be required for either the construction or operational phase.

Before the works commence, a detailed vegetation survey on the Pitcher Plants and Bamboo Orchids would be conducted within the impacted shrubland and Project Area by a suitably qualified botanist/ ecologist to identify and record the affected individuals prior to the commencement of site clearance works.  Feasibility and suitability of transplanting the affected plant species of conservation interest would be carefully studied and suitable receptor sites would be identified.  Detailed transplantation proposal providing information of transplantation methodology, recipient site, implementation programme, watering requirement, post-transplanting monitoring and personal involved shall be submitted to and approved by EPD and AFCD.  Transplantation would be undertaken and supervised by a suitably qualified botanist/ horticulturist.  After transplantation, monitoring will be undertaken to check the performance and health conditions of the transplanted individuals on a weekly basis in the first month after transplantation and monthly basis for additional eleven months.  Remedial actions will be discussed with AFCD in the event of unsuccessful transplantation.

7.2                                      Terrestrial Ecology Mitigation Measures

Regular site inspections should be carried out in order to ensure that the mitigation measures are implemented and are working effectively.  The Contractor(s) will be responsible for the design and implementation of the mitigation measures which are presented in Annex A.

In addition to the above transplantation, provision of 0.7 ha of compensatory planting of shrubland and 6 ha of enhancement planting will be conducted.

 

 

 

8                                            MARINE ECOLOGY

8.1                                      Introduction

The constraints on dredging and piling works defined within the EIA and Environmental Permit will act as appropriate mitigation measures to control the environmental impacts to marine ecological resources to within acceptable levels.  In addition to the Indo-Pacific Humpback Dolphin (Sousa chinensis) exclusion zone monitoring, impacts of construction activities will be monitored through impacts to water quality (see Section 5 of this EM&A Manual). 

8.2                                      Marine Mammal Exclusion Zone: Around the Marine Percussive Piling Barge

8.2.1                                Visual Monitoring

Marine mammal exclusion zones for the construction activities is listed in Table 8.1 The marine mammal exclusion zone should be monitored by the qualified person(s) ([1]) with an unobstructed, elevated view of the area.  The viewpoint(s) will be proposed by the ET to the IEC for approval.  Activities should not begin until the qualified person certifies that the exclusion zone is continuously clear of marine mammals for a period of 30 minutes.  Should marine mammals move into the exclusion zone during the activities, cessation of the activities will be commenced as described in Table 8.1.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Table 8.1         Exclusion Zone Requirement

Activity

Exclusion Zone

Requirement

Marine Percussive Piling Works

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dredging Works for Approaching Channel/Turning Basin

 

500m from piling barge

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

250m from dredger

30 minutes clear of marine mammals before percussive piling activities begin.  If cetaceans are observed in the exclusion zone, percussive piling will be delayed until they have left the area.  When dolphins are spotted within the exclusion zone, percussive piling works will cease and will not resume until the observer confirms that the zone has been continuously clear of dolphins for a period of 30 minutes.

 

Piling works will be restricted to a daily maximum of 12 hours with daylight operations.

 

No piling works will be conducted during the Indo-Pacific Humpback Dolphin calving period between March and August.

 

30 minutes clear of marine mammals before dredging activities begin.  If cetaceans are observed in the exclusion zone, dredging will be delayed until they have left the area.  As per previous practice in Hong Kong, should cetaceans move into the dredging area during dredging, it is considered that cetaceans will have acclimatised themselves to the works therefore cessation of dredging is not required.

 

 

 

 

 

The qualified person for the above visual monitoring must be suitably trained to conduct the visual monitoring works and may be part of the ET.  The IEC will be required to verify the qualification and experience of the qualified person.

8.3                                      Mitigation Measures

The EIA has highlighted that as part of the construction procedure for the marine percussive piling works a bubble jacket will be installed to aid in reducing the levels of underwater sounds generated by the percussive piling activities.  Mitigation measures for marine mammals are presented in Annex A.

8.4                                      Bubble Jacket Pilot Test

A pilot test will be conducted to verify the effectiveness of the design of bubble jacket proposed by the Contractor at reducing underwater sound levels generated from marine percussive pile driving.  The methodology for the test will be developed once the detailed design and methodology for marine percussive piling has been developed.  It is envisioned that the pilot test methodology will reference previous similar tests that have been conducted in Hong Kong at the Temporary Aviation Fuel receiving facility at Sha Chau and the Permanent Aviation Fuel Facility at Area 38.

The methodology and protocol for the test will be agreed with EPD and AFCD in advance and will take place on the first pile to be percussively piled into the seabed on site at Black Point.

 

1)       

1)       

2)      

9                                            LANDSCAPE AND VISUAL

9.1                                      Introduction

This Section defines the EM&A requirements that have been recommended to ensure that the proposed landscape and visual mitigation measures are effectively implemented. 

9.2                                      General

The EIA has recommended that EM&A for landscape and visual resources is undertaken during the construction of the project.  The implementation and maintenance of landscape mitigation measures (Annex A) should be checked to ensure that they are fully realised and that potential conflicts between the proposed landscape measures and any other project works and operational requirements are resolved at the earliest practical date and without compromise to the intention of the mitigation measures. 

Landscape Plans for the Project should be prepared before the commencement of landscape works of the Project.  The Landscape Plan will include the locations, design details, implementation schedules, and drawings in the scale of 1:1000 or other appropriate scale showing the landscape and visual mitigation measures.  The Landscape Plan will be certified by the ET Leader and verified by the IEC as conforming to the requirements set out in Section 11.11 of the EIA Report before deposit to EPD.

9.3                                      Baseline Monitoring

Baseline monitoring for the landscape will comprise a vegetation survey of the vegetation and trees on the site.  Representative vegetation types will be identified along with typical species composition.  The landscape and visual baseline will be determined with reference to the landscape and visual impact assessments included in the EIA Report.

9.4                                      Construction and Post-construction Phase Audit

A specialist Landscape Sub-Contractor should be employed by the Contractor(s) for the implementation of landscape construction works and subsequent maintenance operations during a 24 month establishment period. 

Measures undertaken by both the Contractor(s) and the specialist Landscape Sub-Contractor during the construction phase and first year post-construction will be audited by a Landscape Architect of the ET, ensure compliance with the intended aims of the measures.  Site inspections should be undertaken at least once every two weeks throughout the first half of the landscaping plants establishment period when planting works are being undertaken. 

Post-construction phase auditing will be restricted to the last 12 months of the establishment works of the landscaping proposals and thus only the items in the list below related to this period are relevant to the post-construction audit the remainder are for the construction phase site inspections.  The broad scope of the audit/inspections is detailed below but should also be undertaken with reference to the more specific checklist provided in Table 9.1.

 

·       the extent of the agreed works areas should be regularly checked during the construction phase.  Any trespass by the Contractor(s) outside the limit of the works, including any damage to existing trees will be noted;

 

·       the progress of the engineering works should be regularly reviewed on site to identify the earliest practical opportunities for the landscape works to be undertaken;

 

·       existing trees and vegetation within the study area which are not directly affected by the works are retained and protected to the extent safely practical;

 

·       the methods of protecting existing vegetation proposed by the Contractor(s) are acceptable and enforced;

 

·       preparation, lifting transport and re-planting operations for any transplanted trees;

 

·       landscaping works are carried out in accordance with the specifications;

 

·       the planting of new trees, shrubs, groundcover, climbers, ferns, grasses and other plants, together with the replanting of any transplanted trees are carried out properly and within the right season; and

 

·       necessary horticultural operations and replacement planting are undertaken throughout the Establishment Period to ensure the healthy establishment and growth of both transplanted trees and all newly established plants.

Table 9.1        Construction/Post-Construction Phase Audit Checklist

Area of Works

Items to be Checked

Advance planting

monitoring of implementation and maintenance of planting, and against potential incursion, physical damage, fire, pollution, surface erosion, etc.

Protection of trees to be retained

identification and demarcation of trees / vegetation to be retained, erection of physical protection (e.g. fencing), monitoring against potential incursion, physical damage, fire, pollution, surface erosion, etc.

Clearance of existing vegetation

identification and demarcation of trees / vegetation to be cleared, checking of extent of works to reduce damage, monitoring of adjacent areas against potential incursion, physical damage, fire, pollution, surface erosion, etc.

Transplanting of trees

identification and demarcation of trees / vegetation to be transplanted, monitoring of extent of pruning / lifting works to reduce damage, timing of operations, implementation of the stages of preparatory and translocation works, and maintenance of transplanted vegetation, etc.

Plant supply

monitoring of operations relating to the supply of specialist plant material (including the collecting, germination and growth of plants from seed) to ensure that plants will be available in time to be used within the construction works.

Soiling, planting, etc.

monitoring of implementation and maintenance of soiling and planting works and against potential incursion, physical damage, fire, pollution, surface erosion, etc.

Decorative treatment of site hoarding

implementation and maintenance, to ensure conformity with agreed designs.

Architectural design and treatments of structures (where practicable), retaining walls, elevated road structures and other engineering works.

implementation and maintenance of mitigation measures, to ensure conformity with agreed designs.

Establishment Works

monitoring of implementation of maintenance operations during Establishment Period

In the event of non-compliance from the Environmental Permit, EIA Study, EM&A Manual and Landscape Plan, the responsibilities of the relevant parties is detailed in the Event /Action plan provided on Table 9.2.

 

Table 9.2        Event and Action Plan for Landscape and Visual Monitoring during Construction Phase

 

EVENT

                        ACTION

 

 

 

 

                        ET(1)

IEC(1)

Contractor(s)

CAPCO

Non-compliance   on one occasion

1.   Identify Source

2.  Inform the Contractor(s),  IEC and CAPCO

3.  Discuss remedial actions with the IEC, CAPCO and the Contractor(s)

4.   Monitor remedial actions until rectification has been completed

1.    Check report

2.    Check the  Contractor(s)'s working method

3.    Discuss with the ET and the  Contractor(s) on practical remedial measures

4.    Advise CAPCO on effectiveness of proposed remedial measures.

5.   Check implementation of remedial measures.

1.    Amend working methods

2.    Rectify damage and undertake any necessary replacement

1.    Notify Contractor(s)

2.    Ensure remedial measures are properly implemented

Repeated Non-compliance

1.  Identify Source

2.  Inform the Contractor(s), IEC and CAPCO

3.  Increase monitoring frequency

4.  Discuss remedial actions with the IEC, CAPCO and the Contractor(s)

5.  Monitor remedial actions until rectification has been completed

6.  If nonconformity stops, cease additional monitoring

1.  Check monitoring report

2.  Check the Contractor(s)'s working method

3.  Discuss with the ET and the Contractor(s) on practical remedial measures

4.  Advise CAPCO on effectiveness of proposed remedial measures

5.    Supervise implementation of  remedial measures.

1.  Amend working methods

2.    Rectify damage and undertake any necessary replacement

1.  Notify the Contractor(s)

2.    Ensure remedial measures are properly implemented

Note:         (1)        ET – Environmental Team, IEC – Independent Environmental Checker

 

9.5                                      Mitigation Measures

The Landscape and Visual Assessment of the EIA recommended a series of mitigation measures for the construction and operation phase to ameliorate the landscape and visual impacts of the project.  Details of the recommended mitigation measures are included within the Implementation Schedule provided in Annex A.

9.6                                      Auditing Requirements

Implementation of the mitigation measures for landscape and visual resources recommended by the EIA will be monitored through the site audit programme.  Section 12 of this EM&A Manual sets out the requirements of the auditing programme.

 

10                                        Cultural Heritage

10.1                                  Introduction

This Section defines the EM&A requirements that have been recommended to ensure that the proposed cultural heritage mitigation measures are effectively implemented. 

10.2                                  Mitigation Measures

The EIA has recommended that mitigation measure for impacted cultural heritage resources is undertaken prior to construction of the project. 

The recommended mitigation measure is to undertaken a photographic and cartographic recording for two building structures at Terrace 1, a WWII cave at Terrace 2 and a stone structure at Terrace 3 due to direct impact of the sites from site formation works for the development to preserve the sites by record. AMO should be liaised to ensure their recording requirements are fulfilled. Details of the recommended mitigation measure is included within the Implementation Schedule provided in Annex A.

 

11                                        LAND CONTAMINATION prevention and Quantitative risk

11.1                                  Introduction

This Section defines the EM&A requirements that have been recommended to ensure that appropriate measures to reduce land contamination and quantitative risk be undertaken during the design phase of the project.  A design phase audit is recommended to ensure that the design of the Project, including the spill response plan, comprise the necessary elements to control, detect, contain, clean up, handle and dispose any material that could lead to contaminated land or pose a risk to life or the environment. 

11.2                                  Mitigation Measures

A series of mitigation measures were recommended to be integrated into the design, concerning considerations of land contamination and quantitative risk.  These mitigation measures were developed to reduce the likelihood of the loss of fuels from the system, hence reduce the associated contamination and quantitative risk.  These measures are based on the need to specify procedures for detecting a leak and containing a leak if it occurs, and to define methods for clean up and disposal of the leak.

These measures are summarised in the Implementation Programme of Mitigation Measures (Annex A).

11.3                                  Design Phase Audit

The measures proposed within the EIA to prevent land contamination and risk to life and the environment should be embodied into the detailed design drawings and contract documents.  Designs should be checked to ensure that the measures are incorporated and that potential conflicts with civil engineering, geo-technical, structural, lighting, signage, drainage, underground utility and operational requirements are resolved prior to construction.

The EM&A requirements for land contamination and quantitative risk to the environment comprise the audit during design phase.  The audit will focus on the integration of fuel spill control, leakage detection and leakage/spill containment into detailed engineering design. 

The design items for audit will include:

·      pipeline leak detection and automatic shut-off system;

·      pipeline rock armour protection;

·      bunding of fuel/oil/grease storage areas;

·      tank leak detection, drainage isolation and containment system;

·      on-site fire service installations and equipment;

·      jetty fire protection; and

·      fuel delivery shut off valves.

CAPCO will carry out the audit to ensure appropriate measures have been incorporated in the design and have been specified to the Contractor(s) for implementation.

 

12                                        SITE ENVIRONMENTAL AUDIT

12.1                                  Site Inspections

Site inspections provide a direct means to assess and ensure the Contractor(s)’s environmental protection and pollution control measures are in compliance with the contract specifications.  The site inspection will be undertaken routinely by the ET to ensure that appropriate environmental protection and pollution control mitigation measures are properly implemented in accordance with the EIA.  In addition, the ET will be responsible for defining the scope of the inspections, detailing any deficiencies that are identified, and reporting any necessary action or additional mitigation measures that were implemented as a result of the inspection. 

Regular site inspections will be carried out twice a month. The areas of inspection will not be limited to the site area and should also include the environmental conditions outside the site which are likely to be affected, directly or indirectly, by the site activities.  The ET will make reference to the following information while conducting the inspections:

·       the EIA and EM&A recommendations on environmental protection and pollution control mitigation measures;

·       ongoing results of the EM&A programme;

·       work progress and programme;

·       individual works methodology proposals;

·       the contract specifications on environmental protection;

·       the relevant environmental protection and pollution control laws; and

·       previous site inspection results.

A monthly waste management audit will be carried out as part of the site audit programme.

The Contractor(s) will update the ET with relevant information on the construction works prior to carrying out the site inspections.  The site inspection results will be submitted to the IEC, CAPCO and the Contractor(s) within 24 hours.  Should actions be necessary, the ET will follow up with recommendations on improvements to the environmental protection and pollution control works and will submit these recommendations in a timely manner to the IEC, CAPCO and the Contractor(s).  They will also be presented, along with the remedial actions taken, in the monthly EM&A report.  The Contractor(s) will follow the procedures and time frame stipulated in the environmental site inspection for the implementation of mitigation proposal and the resolution of deficiencies in the Contractor(s)’ EMS.  An action reporting system will be formulated and implemented to report on any remedial measures implemented subsequent to the site inspections.

Ad hoc site inspections will also be carried out by the ET and IEC if significant environmental issues are identified.  Inspections may also be required subsequent to receipt of an environmental complaint or as part of the investigation work as specified in the Action Plan for environmental monitoring and audit.

12.2                                  Compliance with Legal and Contractual Requirements

There are contractual environmental protection and pollution control requirements as well as environmental protection and pollution control laws in Hong Kong with which the construction activities will comply.

In order that the works are in compliance with the contractual requirements, the works method statements submitted by the Contractor(s) to CAPCO for approval will be sent to the ET for review.

The ET will also review the progress and programme of the works to check the regulatory compliance.

The Contractor(s) will regularly copy relevant documents to the ET so that the checking and auditing work can be carried out.  The relevant documents are expected to include at a minimum the updated Work Progress Reports, the updated Works Programme, the application letters for different licence/permits under the environmental protection laws and all valid licences/permits. The site diary will also be available for the ET inspection upon request.

After reviewing the document, the ET will advise the IEC, CAPCO and the Contractor(s) of any non-compliance from the contractual and legislative requirements on environmental protection and pollution control for follow-up actions.  The ET will also advise the IEC, the Contractor(s) and CAPCO on the current status on licence/permit applications and any environmental protection and pollution control preparation works that may not be suitable for the works programme or may result in potential nonconformity of environmental protection and pollution control requirements.

Upon receipt of the advice, the Contractor(s) will undertake immediate action to remedy the situation.  The ET, IEC and CAPCO will follow up to ensure that appropriate action will be taken by the Contractor(s) in order that the environmental protection and pollution control requirements are fulfilled.

 

·   Environmental Complaints

The complaints handling procedure will be as follows:

The ET will undertake the following procedures upon receipt of a complaint:

(i)      log complaint and date of receipt into the complaint database and inform the IEC immediately;

(ii)     investigate the complaint and discuss with the Contractor(s) and CAPCO to determine its validity and to assess whether the source of the issue is due to works activities;

(iii)         if a complaint is considered valid due to the works , the ET will identify mitigation measures in consultation with the Contractor(s), CAPCO and IEC;

(iv)    if mitigation measures are required, the ET will advise the Contractor(s) accordingly;

(v)     review the Contractor(s)'s response on the identified mitigation measures and the updated situation;

(vi)    if the complaint is transferred from EPD, an interim report will be submitted to EPD on the status of the complaint investigation and follow-up action within the time frame assigned by EPD;

(vii)   undertake additional monitoring and audit to verify the situation if necessary and ensure that any valid reason for complaint does not recur;

(viii)   report the investigation results and the subsequent actions on the source of the complaint for responding to complainant.  If the source of complaint is EPD, the results should be reported within the time frame assigned by EPD; and

(ix)    record the complaint, investigation, the subsequent actions and the results in the monthly EM&A reports.

During the complaint investigation work, the ET, Contractor(s) and CAPCO will cooperate with the IEC in providing the necessary information and assistance for completion of the investigation.  If mitigation measures are identified in the investigation, the Contractor(s) will promptly carry out the mitigation measures.  CAPCO will approve the proposed mitigation measures and the ET and IEC will check that the measures have been carried out by the Contractor(s).

12.3                             Log-Book

The ET Leader will keep a contemporaneous log-book of each and every instance or circumstance or change of circumstances which may affect the environmental impact assessment and every non-compliance from the recommendations of the EIA Reports or the Environmental Permit.  The ET Leader will notify the IEC within one working day of the occurrence of any such instance or circumstance or change of circumstance.  The ET Leader’s log-book will be kept readily available for inspection by persons assisting in supervision of the implementation of the EIA Reports recommendations (such as CAPCO, IEC and Contractor(s)) and the EPs or by EPD or his authorised officers.

 

 

13                                        REPORTING

13.1                                  General

Reports can be provided in an electronic medium upon agreeing the format with CAPCO and EPD.  The monitoring data (baseline and impact) will also be made available through a dedicated internet website that would be agreed with relevant authority.

Types of reports that the ET Leader will prepare and submit include baseline monitoring report, monthly EM&A report, quarterly EM&A summary report and final EM&A review report.  In accordance with Annex 21 of the EIAO-TM, a copy of the monthly, quarterly summary and final review EM&A reports will be made available to the Director of Environmental Protection.

13.2                                  Design Phase Audit Report

The Design Phase Audit Report will provide the means for CAPCO to certify that the completed environmental design elements have been completed in accordance with the EIA requirements.  The ET will include in the report a signed off proforma (see Annex C) to confirm that there are no outstanding environmental measures, identified as requiring design phase audit, that require further action.  The IEC will confirm that the report meets these requirements.

13.3                                  Baseline Monitoring Report

In respect of the construction phase EM&A works, the ET will prepare and submit a Baseline Environmental Monitoring Report at least 2 weeks before commencement of the works for the Project.  Copies of the Baseline Environmental Monitoring Report will be submitted to the following: the Contractor(s), the IEC, CAPCO, the EPD, the AFCD, and the PlanD/LPU, as appropriate.  The ET will liaise with the relevant parties on the exact number of copies required.  

The baseline monitoring reports for the construction phase will include at least the following:

(i)      up to half a page executive summary.

(ii)     brief project background information.

(iii)         drawings showing locations of the baseline monitoring stations.

(iv)        monitoring results (in both hard and diskette copies) together with the following information:

-         monitoring methodology;

-         name of laboratory and types of equipment used and calibration details;

-         parameters monitored;

-         monitoring locations (and depth);

-         monitoring date, time, frequency and duration; and

-         quality assurance (QA)/quality control (QC) results and detection limits.

(v)     details on influencing factors, including:

-         major activities, if any, being carried out on the site during the period;

-         weather conditions during the period; and

-         other factors which might affect the results.

(vi)    determination of the Action and Limit Levels for each monitoring parameter and statistical analysis of the baseline data, the analysis will conclude if there is any significant difference between control and impact stations for the parameters monitored;

(vii)    revisions for inclusion in the EM&A Manual; and

(viii)   comments, recommendations and conclusions.

13.4                                  Monthly EM&A Reports

Construction Phase

The results and findings of the construction phase EM&A work required in this Manual will be recorded in the monthly EM&A reports prepared by the ET Leader.  The EM&A report will be prepared and submitted within 2 weeks of the end of each reporting month, with the first report due the month after construction commences.  Each monthly EM&A report will be submitted to the following parties: the Contractor(s), the IEC, CAPCO and the EPD, as well as to other relevant departments as required.  Before submission of the first EM&A Report, the ET will liaise with the parties on the exact number of copies and format of the reports in both hard copy and electronic medium.

The ET Leader will review the number and location of monitoring stations and parameters every six months, or on as needed basis, in order to cater for any changes in the surrounding environment and the nature of works in progress.

Post-Construction Phase

The post-construction phase EM&A (landscape and marine mammals) will be reported on a bi-monthly basis for a period of one year after the commission of the project.  The ET will prepare operational phase EM&A Reports on a bi-monthly (once every two months) basis to be submitted within two weeks of the end of the reporting period.  The reports will be submitted to the Contractor(s), the IEC, CAPCO, EPD and PlanD/LPU, as appropriate.  

13.4.2                            Contents of First Monthly EM&A Report

(i)      1-2 pages executive summary, comprising:

-         breaches of AL levels;

-         complaint Log;

-         notifications of any summons and successful prosecutions;

-         reporting changes; and

-         forecast of impact predictions.

(ii)      basic project information including a synopsis of the project organisation, programme and management structure, and a drawing of the Project area showing the environmentally sensitive receivers and the locations of monitoring and control stations, programme, management structure and the work undertaken during the month.

(iii)     Environmental Status, comprising:

-          works undertaken during the month with illustrations (such as location of works, daily dredging/filling rates, percentage fines in the fill material used); and

-          drawing showing the project area, any environmental sensitive receivers and the locations of the monitoring and control stations.

(iv)    A brief summary of EM&A requirements including:

-          monitoring parameters;

-          environmental quality performance limits (Action and Limit levels);

-          Event-Action Plans;

-          environmental mitigation measures, as recommended in the Project EIA study final report; and

-          environmental requirements in contract documents.

(v)     Advice on the implementation of environmental protection, mitigation and pollution control measures as recommended in the Project EIA study report and summarised in the updated implementation schedule.

(vi)    monitoring results (in both hard and diskette copies) together with the following information:

-         monitoring methodology;

-         name of laboratory and equipment used and calibration details;

-         parameters monitored;

-         monitoring locations (and depth);

-         monitoring date, time, frequency, and duration; and

(vii)    graphical plots of trends of monitored parameters over the past four reporting periods for representative monitoring stations annotated against the following:

-         major activities being carried out on site during the period;

-         weather conditions during the period; and

-         any other factors which might affect the monitoring results;

(viii)   Advice on the solid and liquid waste management.

(ix)     a summary of non-compliance (exceedances) of the environmental quality performance limits (Action and Limit levels).

(x)     a review of the reasons for and the implications of non-compliance including a review of pollution sources and working procedures.

(xi)     a description of the actions taken in the event of non-compliance and deficiency reporting and any follow-up procedures related to earlier non-compliance.

(xii)    a summary record of complaints received (written or verbal) for each media, including locations and nature of complaints, liaison and consultation undertaken, actions and follow-up procedures taken and summary of complaints.

(xiii)   a summary record of notifications of summons, successful prosecutions for breaches of environmental protection/pollution control legislation and actions to rectify such breaches.

(xiv)   a forecast of the works programme, impact predictions and monitoring schedule for the next one month; and

(xv)    Comments, recommendations and conclusions for the monitoring period.

13.4.3                            Contents of the Subsequent Monthly EM&A Reports

(i)      Title page.

(ii)     Executive summary (1-2 pages), including:

-      breaches of Action and Limit levels;

-      complaint log;

-      notifications of any summons and successful prosecutions;

-      reporting changes; and

-      forecast of impact predictions.

(iii)     Contents page.

(iv)    Environmental status, comprising:

-    drawing showing the Project area, any environmental sensitive receivers and the locations of the monitoring and control stations;

-    summary of non-compliance with the environmental quality performance limits; and

-    summary of complaints.

(v)     Environmental issues and actions, comprising:

-    review issues carried forward and any follow-up procedures related to earlier non-compliance (complaints and deficiencies);

-    description of the actions taken in the event of noncompliance and deficiency reporting;

-    recommendations (should be specific and target the appropriate party for action); and

-    implementation status of the mitigatory measures and the corresponding effectiveness of the measures.

(vii)    Appendices, including:

-    action and limit levels;

-    graphical plots of trends of monitored parameters at key stations over the past four reporting periods for representative monitoring stations annotated against the following: major activities being carried out on site during the period; weather conditions during the period; and any other factors which might affect the monitoring results;

-    monitoring schedule for the present and next reporting period;

-    cumulative complaints statistics; and

-    details of complaints, outstanding issues and deficiencies.

13.4.4                            Quarterly EM&A Summary Report

The ET Leader will submit Quarterly EM&A Summary Reports for the construction phase EM&A works only.  These reports should contain at least the following information:

 

(i)            Up to half a page executive summary.

 

(ii)          basic project information including a synopsis of the Project organisation, programme, contacts of key management, compliance with EP condition (status of submission) and a synopsis of work undertaken during the quarter.

 

(iii)    a brief summary of EM&A requirements including:

-         monitoring parameters;

-         environmental quality performance limits (Action and Limit levels); and

-         environmental mitigation measures, as recommended in the Project EIA study final report.

(iv)    advice on the implementation of environmental protection and pollution control/mitigation measures as recommended in the Project EIA study report and summarised in the updated implementation schedule.

(v)     drawings showing the Project area, any environmental sensitive receivers and the locations of the monitoring and control stations.

(vi)    graphical plots of the trends of monitored parameters over the past four months (the last month of the previous quarter and the present quarter) for representative monitoring stations annotated against:

-         the major activities being carried out on site during the period;

-         weather conditions during the period; and

-         any other factors which might affect the monitoring results.

(vii)   advice on the solid and liquid waste management.

(viii)   a summary of non-compliance (exceedances) of the environmental quality performance limits (Action and Limit levels).

(ix)    An Impact Prediction Review will be prepared to compare project predictions with actual impacts for the purpose of assessing the accuracy of predictions on the EIA study.  The review will focus on the comparison between the EIA study prediction with the EM&A monitoring result.  If any excessive variation was found, a summary of investigation and follow up procedure taken will be addressed accordingly. 

 (x)   a brief review of the reasons for and the implications of non-compliance including review of pollution sources and working procedures.

(xi)    An assessment of the construction impacts on suspended solids, including but not limited to, a comparison of the difference between the quarterly mean and the 1.3 times the ambient mean value, the latter being defined as a 30% increase of the baseline data or EPD data, using appropriate statistical procedures.  Suggestions of appropriate mitigation measures will be made if the quarterly assessment analytical results demonstrate that the quarterly mean is significantly higher than the 1.3 ambient mean value (p <0.05).

(xii)   a summary description of the actions taken in the event of non-compliance and any follow-up procedures related to earlier non-compliance.

(xiii)   a summarised record of complaints received (written or verbal) for each media, liaison and consultation undertaken, actions and follow-up procedures taken.

(xiv)  Comments (eg effectiveness and efficiency of the mitigation measures), recommendations (eg any improvement in the EM&A programme) and conclusions for the quarter.

(xv)   Proponents' contacts for the public to make enquiries.

13.5                                  Annual/Final EM&A Review Reports

An annual EM&A report will be prepared by the ET at the end of each construction year during the course of the project.  A final EM&A report will be prepared by the ET at the end of each of the construction and operational phases.  The annual/final EM&A reports will contain at least the following information:

(i)      Executive Summary (1-2 pages).

(ii)     drawings showing the project area any environmental sensitive receivers and the locations of the monitoring and control stations.

(iii)    basic project information including a synopsis of the project organization, contacts for key management staff and a synopsis of work undertaken during the course of the project or past twelve months.

(iv)    a brief summary of EM&A requirements including:

-         environmental mitigation measures as recommended in the project EIA study final report;

-         environmental impact hypotheses tested;

-         environmental quality performance limits (Action and Limit Levels);

-         monitoring parameters; and

-         Event-Action Plans.

(v)     a summary of the implementation status of environmental protection and pollution control/mitigation measures as recommended in the project EIA study report and summarised in the updated implementation schedule.

(vi)    graphical plots and the statistical analysis of the trends of monitored parameters over the course of the projects including the post-project monitoring (or the past twelve months for annual reports) for monitoring stations annotated against the following:

-         the major activities being carried out on site during the period;

-         weather conditions during the period;

-         any other factors which might affect the monitoring results; and

(vii)    a summary of non-compliance (exceedances) of the environmental quality performance limits (Action and Limit levels).

(viii)   a review of the reasons for and the implications of non-compliance including review of pollution sources and working procedures as appropriate.

(ix)    a description of the actions taken in the event of non-compliance.

(x)     a summary record of complaints received (written or verbal) for each media, liaison and consultation undertaken, actions and follow-up procedures taken.

(xi)    a summary record of notifications of summonses and successful prosecutions for breaches of the current environmental protection/pollution control legislations, locations and nature of the breaches investigation, follow-up actions taken and results.

(xii)   a comparison of the EM&A data with the EIA predictions with annotations and explanations for any discrepancies, including a review of the validity of EIA predictions and identification of shortcomings in the EIA recommendations.

(xiii)   A review of the monitoring methodology adopted and with the benefit of hindsight, comment on its effectiveness, including cost effectiveness;

(xiv)     A review of the success of the EM&A programme, including a review of the effectiveness and efficiency of the mitigation measures, and recommendations for any improvements in the EM&A programme.

(xv)      A clear cut statement on the environmental acceptability of the project with reference to specific impact hypotheses and a conclusion to state the return to ambient and/or the predicted scenario as the EIA findings.

13.6                                  Data Keeping

The site documents such as the monitoring field records, laboratory analysis records, site inspection forms, etc. are not required to be included in the EM&A Reports for submission.  However, the documents will be kept by the ET Leader and be ready for inspection upon request. Relevant information will be clearly and systematically recorded in the documents.  The monitoring data will also be recorded in magnetic media, and the software copy will be available upon request.  The documents and data will be kept for at least one year after the completion of the operational phase EM&A works.

13.7                                  Electronic Reporting of EM&A Information

To enable the public inspection of the Baseline Monitoring Report and monthly EM&A Reports via the EIAO Internet Website and at the EIAO Register Office, electronic copies of monthly EM&A Reports will be prepared in Hyper Text Markup Language (HTML) (version 4.0 or later) and in Portable Document Format (PDF, version 4.0 or later), unless otherwise agreed by EPD and will be submitted at the same time as the hard copies.  For the HTML version, a content page capable of providing hyperlink to each section and sub-section of the EM&A Reports will be included in the beginning of the document.  Hyperlinks to figures, drawings and tables in the EM&A Reports will be provided in the main text where the respective references are made.  Graphics in the reports will be in interlaced GIF format unless otherwise agreed by EPD.  The content of the electronic copies of the monthly EM&A Reports must be the same as the hard copies.

Environmental monitoring data will be made available to the public via the internet access in the form of a website, in the shortest practical time and in no event later 2 weeks after the relevant environmental monitoring data are analysed and validated.  The internet address and the environmental monitoring data will be made available to the public via the EIAO Internet Website and the EIAO Register Office.

The internet website as described above will enable user friendly public access to the monitoring data and with features capable of:

·       providing access to environmental monitoring data collected since the commencement of works;

·       searching by data;

·       searching by types of monitoring data (water quality);

·       hyperlinks to relevant monitoring data after searching; and

·       or otherwise as agreed by EPD.

13.8                                  Interim Notifications of Environmental Quality Limit Exceedances

With reference to Event/Action Plans, when the environmental quality limits are exceeded, the ET will notify the Contractor(s), CAPCO, EPD and the AFCD as appropriate within 24 hours of the identification of the exceedance.  The notification will be followed up with each party on the results of the investigation, proposed action and success of the action taken, with any necessary follow-up proposals.  A sample template for the interim notifications is shown in Annex C.

 


([1])      The qualified person(s) should hold a post-graduate degree in a relevant environmental or biological discipline and the CVs should be approved by the IEC prior to commencement of works.