Content
Chapter Title
Figures
Figure 1.2 Project
Organisation Chart
Figure 2.1 Proposed
Locations of Construction Air Monitoring Stations
Figure 2.2 Proposed
Locations of Odour Patrol Route
Figure 3.1 Proposed
Locations of Construction Noise Monitoring Stations
Figure 4.1 Proposed
Locations of Water Quality Monitoring Stations
Figure 10.1 Project
Layout for Underpass Roads
Figure 10.2 Proposed
Locations of Construction Air Monitoring Stations for Underpass Roads
Figure 10.3 Proposed
Locations of Construction Noise Monitoring Stations for Underpass Roads
Figure 11.1 Project
Layout for Flyover
Figure 11.2 Proposed
Locations of Construction Air Monitoring Stations for Flyover
Figure 11.3 Proposed
Locations of Construction Noise Monitoring Stations for Flyover
Figure 12.1 Flow Chart of Complaint Investigation Procedures
Appendices
Appendix A Tentative
Construction Programme
Appendix B Sample Environmental Monitoring Data
Recording Sheet
Appendix C Implementation Schedule for Environmental
Mitigation Measures for WKCD Schedule 3 EIA
Appendix F Sample Template for the Interim
Notifications
1.1 Purpose of the Manual
The purpose of this Environmental Monitoring and Audit (EM&A) Manual (hereafter referred to as the Manual) is to guide the setup of an EM&A programme to ensure compliance with the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) study recommendations, to assess the effectiveness of the recommended mitigation measures and to identify any further need for additional mitigation measures or remedial action. This Manual outlines the monitoring and audit programme proposed for the “West Kowloon Cultural District” (The Project).
It should be noted that this EM&A Manual would be further reviewed and updated where necessary.
The West Kowloon Cultural
District Authority (WKCDA), empowered by the WKCDA Ordinance (Cap. 601), was
set up by the Government with the full support of the Legislative Council (LegCo) in October 2008 to take forward the WKCD project.
i. To conduct an exercise to gauge stakeholders’ expectations and aspirations for the DP of the WKCD as well as their views on the design and functional requirements of the CACF;
ii. To prepare three Conceptual Plan (CP) Options; and
iii. In the light of public comments on the CP Options collected in a Public Engagement (PE) exercise, select one option out of the three with any modifications as deemed fit by the WKCDA.
Further to the submission of the DP on 30
December 2011, and agreement of the DP by TPB on 9 March 2012, the project area
and project layout to be taken forward is shown in Figure 1.1.
1.2.1 Existing Site Conditions
The West Kowloon Cultural District (WKCD) site is located on the West Kowloon Reclamation south of Austin Road West and the Western Harbour Crossing Toll Plaza as shown in Figure 1.1. The site is currently zoned as “West Kowloon Cultural District Development Plan Area” under the approved South West Kowloon Outline Zoning Plan (No. S/K20/27) gazetted on 8 January 2013, and comprises approximately 40ha of land bordering the Jordan/Tsim Sha Tsui area. The site reserved for the WKCD development is currently occupied by works sites, local roads, temporary storage / parking facilities, a temporary promenade at the Waterfront and a number of existing infrastructure and utility facilities such as ventilation buildings for the Western Harbour Crossing and the MTR railway line, a sea water pumping station, etc. Parts of the WKCD site are also currently occupied by the Tsim Sha Tsui Fire Station and by the works site and temporary works areas for the Hong Kong Section of the Guangzhou-Shenzhen-Hong Kong Express Rail Link (XRL) project.
Following from recommendations by the Consultative Committee on the Core Arts and Cultural Facilities (CACF) of WKCD in 2006, a number of CACF were proposed, including both performing arts and visual arts venues. Other facilities including hotel, offices and residential (HOR) and Government, Institution or Community facilities (GIC) were also recommended. Plans to embed sustainability into these core facilities and the WKCD area include adoption of green building designs, renewable energy technologies, water and energy conservation measures, and green transportation.
The proposed
WKCD development will comprise the following major facilities.
Core Arts and
Cultural Facilities (CACF)
The CACF will consist of:
¡ A Mega Performance Venue, an enclosed facility designed for popular amplified music events, with the flexibility to accommodate other art forms and large-scale entertainment events;
¡ Exhibition Centre Complex designed for large-scale cultural, entertainment and commercial events with facilities to support entrepreneurial arts related events and cultural activities – extending from art fairs and book fairs to fashion shows, performance installations, product launches and celebrations and galas;
¡ A Great Theatre, designed for large-scale productions optimised for a wide range of amplified music theatrical performances with supporting facilities such as spacious foyer designed to accommodate small-scale informal performances and temporary exhibitions, VIP rooms, box lounges, integrated retail and dining facilities, and ample rehearsal spaces;
¡ A Musical Theatre, intended primarily for broadway-style musicals and performances of other art forms, including western and Chinese opera and dance;
¡ A Lyric Theatre, a facility with an orchestra pit for dance, ballet, opera, musicals and theatrical performances, which is designed principally for operatic and dramatic performances, various forms of dance and a wide range of art forms, incorporating unamplified and amplified music accompaniment;
¡ A Centre for Contemporary Performance (CCP) comprising three flexible performing spaces of different sizes (blackbox theatres) and additional workshop/classrooms for educational programs. The CCP will be a facility for contemporary performing arts, mulit- and cross disciplinary, multimedia theatre, music and dance;
¡ Thrust Theatres, primarily designed to meet the needs of larger contemporary dance ensembles and spoken-word drama with amplified music;
¡ Proscenium Theatre, designed for medium-scale theatrical and dance performances with amplified music, primarily to meet the needs of spoken word theatre and various forms of dance;
¡ Outdoor Theatre, integrated within the landscape design of the Great Park, designed as a space primarily for both free and ticketed amplified or electronically reinforced music performance;
¡ A Music Centre comprising a Concert Hall and a Recital Hall, designed for the acoustics and performance requirements of large scale unamplified instrumental and vocal music, of both western and Chinese origin;
¡ A Xiqu Centre with Large Theatre and Small Theatre as well as a commercially operated teahouse – showcase and education venue for Chinese opera, and a single balcony courtyard type venue with integrated catering facilities;
¡ An enclosed Freespace with Music Box – a physical cluster of two indoor venues. The two indoor venues are namely Music Box and Freespace Theatre. Music Box is intended for the presentation of pop culture events with a focus on music, and is highly flexible for stage position and seating configuration. Freespace theatre is intended for popular and experimental performances such as music, theatre and dance. This venue is highly flexible and offers an opportunity for the presentation of broad range of performance types with stalls format; and
¡ A museum (Museum Plus) for visual culture – contemporary art, design, architecture, moving image and popular culture – looking at the world from a Hong Kong perspective.
Other Arts and Cultural Facilities (OACF)
The CACF will be supported by the OACF which include Resident Company Centres, Arts and Craft Studios, Pavilions and Literary Arts Centre.
Infrastructure and Support Facilities
The WKCD will also involve the following infrastructure and support facilities:
¡ Government, Institution or Community (GIC) facilities including electricity substation, police post etc.;
¡ Various retail, dining and entertainment (RDE) facilities; and hotel, office and residential (HOR) developments. All residential buildings inside WKCD will be mixed with commercial components such as RDE and office at lower floors to support the leisure lifestyle and minimize the environmental impacts at residential floors;
¡ A district cooling system to provide chilled water for WKCD facilities for substantial energy saving, with possible extension to Government, Institution or Community facilities and hotel, office and residential developments subject to technical, financial and implementation mechanisms;
¡ On-site renewable energy systems e.g., wind turbines and photovoltaics for local electricity supply;
¡ A green transportation system in the form of travellators and eco-buses (operating in the underpass road), coupled with substantial pedestrianisation within the WKCD;
¡ Local road networks comprising a main underpass of approximately 1400m in length, a flyover bridge of approximately 200m in length across the Western Harbour Crossing toll plaza, at-grade link roads, lay-bys and emergency vehicular access;
¡ Other accessibility features including possible external footbridge connections from WKCD to Kowloon Park, China Ferry Pier, the International Commerce Centre, Elements mall, and pedestrian links (e.g. subway and landscape deck) to West Kowloon Terminus and Austin Station;
¡ One optional viewing platform and two possible piers for water access subject to the Protection of the Harbour Ordinance (Cap. 531). The viewing platform is an extension of the waterfront promenade, possibly composed of cantilever structure on top of seabed and foreshore. The two possible piers aims to enable marine connectivity for visitor to the MPV/EC and the Great Theatre;
¡ Park – extensive areas of grass and open space with trees offering shade for open air leisure, recreation, refreshment and walking, allow people to relax and find quiet spaces together;
¡ Modification of seawalls for the construction of seawater discharges/outfalls and landing steps near south or south-west boundary of the WKCD site;
¡ Optional water reuse facilities – options to be considered include green building initiatives such as rainwater harvesting and/or reuse of condensate from air conditioning systems;
¡ Optional automatic refuse collection system, if technically feasible and financially viable; The system aims to enhance recycling and to minimize nuisance to be caused from typical waste collection. Should the automatic refuse collection system be implemented, the piping network will be installed underground and rely on transport of waste by vacuum, replacing the traditional refuse room and waste container;
¡ Possible relocation of the existing Tsim Sha Tsui Fire Station located at the south east boundary of the WKCD site in stages; and
¡ Associated utilities, drainage, sewerage, sewage pump sumps, waterworks, engineering works, landscaping and environmental mitigation measures.
1.3 Tentative Construction Programme
It is targeted to commence construction of the critical elements of the WKCD in 2013 so as to commission the Phase 1 arts and cultural facilities in stages starting from 2014/2015. A tentative construction programme and sequence of works are shown in Appendix A.
The proposed project organisation is shown in Figure 1.2. The responsibilities of respective parties are set out below.
West Kowloon
Cultural District Authority (WKCDA)
WKCDA is the Project Proponent for the development of the Project, and will assume overall responsibility for the Project.
Environmental
Protection Department (EPD)
EPD is the statutory enforcement body for environmental protection matters in Hong Kong.
Engineer or the Engineer’s Representative (ER)
The ER is
responsible for overseeing the construction works and for ensuring that the
works are undertaken by the Contractor in accordance with the specification and
contract requirements. The duties and responsibilities of the ER with respect
to EM&A include:
¡ to monitor
the Contractor’s compliance with Contract Specifications, including the
effective implementation and operation of the environmental mitigation
measures;
¡ to employ an
Independent Environmental Checker (IEC) to audit the results of the EM&A
works carried out by the Environmental Team (ET);
¡ to monitor
Contractors’, ET’s and IEC’s compliance with the requirements in the
Environmental Permit (EP) and EM&A Manual;
¡ to facilitate
ET’s implementation of the EM&A programme;
¡ participate
in joint site inspection by the ET and IEC;
¡ to oversee
the implementation of the agreed Event / Action Plan in the event of any exceedance; and,
¡ to adhere to the procedures for carrying out complaint investigation.
The Contractor
The Contractor
should report to the ER. The duties and responsibilities of the Contractor include:
¡ to comply
with the relevant contract conditions and specifications on environmental
protection;
¡ to employ an ET
to undertake monitoring, laboratory analysis and reporting of EM&A;
¡ to facilitate
ET’s monitoring and site inspection activities;
¡ to participate
in the site inspections undertaken by the ET and IEC, and undertake any
corrective actions;
¡ to provide
information / advice to the ET regarding works programme and activities which
may contribute to the generation of adverse environmental impacts;
¡ to submit
proposals on mitigation measures in case of exceedance
of Action and Limit levels in accordance with the Event / Action Plans;
¡ to implement
measures to reduce impact where Action and Limit levels are exceeded; and,
¡ to adhere to the procedures for carrying out complaint investigation.
Environmental Team (ET)
The ET should be
employed by the WKCDA / Contractor to conduct the EM&A programme. The ET should
be managed by the ET Leader. ET Leader should have relevant professional
qualifications in environmental control and possess at least 7 years experience in EM&A. Suitably qualified staff
should be included in the ET, and resources for the implementation of the
EM&A programme should be allocated in the time under the Contract, to
enable fulfilment of the Project’s EM&A requirements as specified in the
EM&A Manual during construction of the Project. The ET should report to
WKCDA and the duties should include:
¡ to monitor and audit various environmental parameters as required in this
EM&A Manual;
¡ to analyse the environmental monitoring and audit data, review the success
of EM&A programme and the adequacy of mitigation measures implemented,
confirm the validity of the EIA predictions and identify any adverse
environmental impacts arising;
¡ to monitor compliance with conditions in the EP, environmental protection, pollution
prevention and control regulations and contract specifications;
¡ to audit environmental conditions on site;
¡ to report on the environmental monitoring and audit results to EPD, the ER,
the IEC and Contractor or their delegated representatives;
¡ to recommend suitable mitigation measures to the Contractor in the case of exceedance of Action and Limit levels in accordance with
the Event and Action Plans;
¡ to liaise with the IEC on all environmental performance matters, and ensure
timely submission of all relevant EM&A pro forma for IEC’s approval;
¡ to provide advice
to the Contractor on environmental improvement, awareness and enhancement
matters, etc on site;
¡ to adhere to
the procedures for carrying out complaint investigation;
¡ to prepare
reports on the environmental monitoring data and the site environmental
conditions;
¡ to submit the
EM&A report to Director of Environmental Protection (DEP) timely;
¡ to review
proposals of mitigation measures from the Contractor in case of exceedance of Action and Limit levels, in accordance with
Event and Action Plan; and,
¡ to carry out site inspection to investigate and audit the Contractor’s
site practice, equipment and work methodologies with respect to pollution
control and mitigation measures.
Independent Environmental Checker (IEC)
The IEC is empowered
to audit the environmental performance of construction, but is independent from
the management of construction works. As
such, the IEC should not be in any way an associated body of the Contractor or
the ET for the Project. The IEC should be employed by WKCDA prior to the
commencement of the construction of the Project. The IEC should be a person who
has relevant professional qualifications in environmental control and at least
7 years experience in EM&A and environmental
management. The duties and responsibilities of the IEC are:
¡ to provide proactive advice to the ER and WKCDA on EM&A matters
related to the project.
¡ to review and
verify the monitoring data and all submissions in connection with the EP and
EM&A Manual submitted by the ET;
¡ to arrange
and conduct regular, at least monthly site inspections of the works during the construction
phase, and to carry out ad hoc inspections if significant environmental
problems are identified;
¡ to check
compliance with the agreed Event / Action Plan in the event of any exceedance;
¡ to check
compliance with the procedures for carrying out complaint investigation;
¡ to check the
effectiveness of corrective measures;
¡ to feedback
audit results to the ET by signing off relevant EM&A pro forma;
¡ to check that
mitigation measures are effectively implemented;
¡ to report the
works conducted, and the findings, recommendations and improvements of the site
inspections, after reviewing ET’s and Contractor’s works, to the ER and WKCDA
on a monthly basis;
¡ to verify the
investigation result of the environmental complaint cases and the effectiveness
of corrective measures;
¡ to verify
EM&A report that has been certified by ET leader; and,
¡ to audit EIA recommendations and requirements against the status of
implementation of environmental mitigation measures on site.
2.1 Construction Air Quality Monitoring
2.1.1 General
It is proposed to carry out environmental monitoring and audit during the construction phase of the Project to check and ensure compliance with the relevant air quality standards by effective implementation of the recommended construction dust mitigation measures. Potential air quality impact arising from the construction works would mainly be due to excavation, materials handling, spoil removal, wind erosion and land formation, as well as the operation of a concrete batching plant and barging facilities.
The key objectives of the construction phase dust monitoring are:
¡ to identify the extent of dust impact during construction phase on sensitive receivers;
¡ to audit the compliance of the Contractor with regard to dust control, contract conditions and the relevant dust impact criteria;
¡ to determine the effectiveness of mitigation measures to control fugitive dust emission from activities during the construction phase;
¡ to recommend further mitigation measures if found to be necessary, and;
¡ to comply with Action and Limit Levels for air quality as defined in this Manual.
Details of the environmental monitoring and audit requirements during construction phase are presented below.
Monitoring and audit of the Total Suspended Particulate (TSP) levels during the construction phase should be carried out by the Environmental Team (ET) to ensure that any deteriorating air quality could be readily detected and timely actions taken to rectify the situation.
The TSP levels should be measured by following the standard method as set out in High Volume Method for Total Suspended Particulates, Part 50 Chapter 1 Appendix B, Title 40 of the Code of Federal Regulations of the USEPA (HVS method).
One-hour and 24-hour TSP levels should be measured to indicate the impacts of construction dust on air quality. Upon approval of the IEC, one-hour TSP levels can be measured by direct reading methods which are capable of producing comparable results as that by the HVS method, to indicate short event impacts.
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, other special phenomena and work progress of the concerned project area, etc should be recorded. A sample data record sheet is shown Appendix B. The ET may develop a project specific record sheet to suit this EM&A programme.
High Volume Sampler (HVS) in compliance with the following specifications should be used for carrying out the one-hour or 24-hour TSP monitoring:
¡ 0.6 - 1.7 m3/min (20 - 60 standard cubic feet per minute) adjustable flow range;
¡ equipped with a timing / control device with +/- 5 minutes accuracy for 24 hours operation;
¡ installed with elapsed-time meter with +/- 2 minutes accuracy for 24 hours operation;
¡ capable of providing a minimum exposed area of 406 cm2 (63 in2);
¡ flow control accuracy: +/- 2.5% deviation over 24-hr sampling period;
¡ incorporated with an electronic mass flow rate controller or other equivalent devices;
¡ equipped with a flow recorder for continuous monitoring;
¡ provided with a peaked roof inlet;
¡ incorporated with a manometer;
¡ able to hold and seal the filter paper to the sampler housing at horizontal position;
¡ easy to change the filter, and;
¡ capable of operating continuously for 24-hour period.
The ET is responsible for provision of the monitoring equipment. They should
ensure that sufficient numbers of HVSs with an appropriate calibration kit are
available for carrying out the baseline monitoring, regular impact monitoring
and ad hoc monitoring. The HVSs should 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., should be clearly
labelled.
Initial calibration of dust monitoring equipment should be conducted
upon installation and thereafter at bi-monthly intervals. The transfer standard
should be traceable to the internationally recognised primary standard and be
calibrated annually. The concern parties such as Independent Environmental
Checker (IEC) should properly document the calibration data for future
reference. All the data should 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 should be verified to be constant and be recorded in the
data sheet, shown in Appendix
B.
If the ET proposes to use a direct reading dust meter to measure one-hour
TSP levels, sufficient information should be submitted to the IEC to prove that
the instrument is capable of achieving a comparable result to the HVS. The
instrument should also be calibrated regularly, and the one-hour sampling should
be determined periodically by the HVS to check the validity and accuracy of the
results measured by direct reading method.
Wind data monitoring equipment should be provided and set up for logging
wind speed and wind direction near the dust monitoring locations. The equipment
installation location should be proposed by the ET and agreed with the IEC. For
installation and operation of wind data monitoring equipment, the following
points should be observed:
¡ the wind sensors should be installed 10 m above ground so that they are clear of obstructions or turbulence caused by buildings;
¡ the wind data should be captured by a data logger. The data should be downloaded for analysis 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 the WKCDA and agreement from the IEC.
2.1.4 Laboratory Measurement / Analysis
A clean laboratory with constant temperature
and humidity control, and equipped with necessary measuring and conditioning
instruments to handle the dust samples collected, should be available for
sample analysis, equipment calibration and maintenance. The laboratory should
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 should be approved by the WKCDA and the
measurement procedures should be witnessed by the IEC. Any measurement
performed by the laboratory should be demonstrated to the satisfaction of the
WKCDA and IEC. IEC should regularly audit to the measurement performed by the
laboratory to ensure the accuracy of measurement results. The ET Leader should
provide the WKCDA with one copy of the Title 40 of the Code of Federal
Regulations, Chapter 1 (Part 50), Appendix B for his reference.
Filter paper of size 8" x 10" should
be labelled before sampling. It should be a clean filter paper with no
pinholes, and should be conditioned in a humidity-controlled chamber for over
24-hours and be pre-weighed before use for the sampling.
After sampling, the filter paper loaded with
dust should be kept in a clean and tightly sealed plastic bag. The filter paper
should then be returned to the laboratory for reconditioning in the
humidity-controlled chamber followed by accurate weighing by an electronic
balance with readout down to 0.1 mg. The balance should be regularly calibrated
against a traceable standard.
All collected samples should be kept in good
condition for six months before disposal.
Five air quality monitoring locations are proposed and summarised in Table 2.1 and shown in Figure 2.1, subject to approval from the premises landlord for dust monitoring equipment installation. The status and locations of dust sensitive receivers may change after issuing this report. If such cases exist, the ET should propose updated monitoring locations and seek agreement from EPD, and agreement from WKCDA and IEC before baseline monitoring commences.
Table 2.1: Construction Air Quality Monitoring Stations
ID |
Description |
AM1 |
International Commerce Centre |
AM2 |
The Harbourside Tower 1 |
AM3 |
The Victoria Towers - Tower 1 |
AM4 |
Canton Road Government Primary School |
AM5 |
Topside Developments at West Kowloon Terminus Site (Monitoring to start after completion of development in 2015, subject to the construction programme of
XRL) |
When alternative monitoring locations are
proposed, the proposed site should, as far as practicable:
¡ be at the site boundary or such locations close to the major dust emission source;
¡ be close to the sensitive receptors, and;
¡ take into account the prevailing meteorological conditions.
Monitoring
equipment must be positioned, sited and orientated properly. The ET should agree with the WKCDA in
consultation with the IEC on the position of the HVS for the installation of
the monitoring equipment. When positioning the samplers, the following points should
be noted:
¡ a horizontal platform with appropriate support to secure the samplers against strong wind should be provided;
¡ no two samplers should be placed less than two meters apart;
¡ the distance between the sampler and an obstacle, such as buildings, must be at least twice the height that the obstacle protrudes above the sampler;
¡ a minimum of two meters of separation from walls, parapets and penthouses is required for rooftop samplers;
¡ a minimum of two meters 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 meters from the dripline;
¡ wire fence or gates used to protect the sampler, should not cause any obstruction during monitoring;
¡ permission must be obtained to set up the samplers and to obtain access to the monitoring stations, and;
¡ a secured supply of electricity is needed to operate the samplers.
The ET may, depending on site conditions and monitoring results, decide whether additional monitoring locations should be included or any monitoring locations could be removed / relocated during any stage of the construction phase.
Baseline monitoring should be conducted at all designated monitoring locations, see Table 2.1, for at least 14 consecutive days before commencement of construction work to obtain daily ambient 24-hour TSP samples. The selected baseline monitoring stations should reflect baseline conditions at the stations. One-hour sampling should also be done at least three times per day when the highest dust impacts are expected. The baseline monitoring will provide data for the determination of the appropriate Action Levels with the Limit Levels set against statutory or otherwise agreed limits. General meteorological conditions (wind speed, wind direction and precipitation) and notes regarding any significant adjacent dust producing sources should also be recorded throughout the baseline monitoring period.
During the baseline monitoring, there should not be any construction or dust generating activities in the vicinity of the monitoring stations. Before commencing baseline monitoring, the ET should inform the IEC of the baseline monitoring programme such that IEC can conduct on-site audit to ensure accuracy of the baseline monitoring results.
In case the baseline monitoring cannot be carried out at the designated monitoring locations during the baseline monitoring period, the ET leader should carry out the monitoring at alternative locations that can effectively represent the baseline conditions at the impact monitoring locations. The alternative baseline monitoring locations should be approved by the WKCDA and agreed with the IEC.
In exceptional cases, when insufficient baseline monitoring data or questionable results are obtained, the ET should liaise with the IEC and EPD to agree on an appropriate set of data to be used as a baseline reference and submit to WKCDA for approval. If the ET considers that significant changes in the ambient conditions have arisen, a repeat of the baseline monitoring may be carried out to update the baseline levels and air quality criteria, after consultation and agreement with WKCDA, the IEC and the EPD.
Ambient conditions may vary seasonally and should be reviewed once every six months. When the ambient conditions have changed and a repeat of the baseline monitoring is required to be carried out for obtaining the 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 change in ambient conditions be determined, the baseline levels and, in turn, the air quality criteria, should be revised. The revised baseline levels and air quality criteria should be agreed with the IEC and EPD.
2.1.7 Impact and Compliance Monitoring
The monthly schedule of the compliance and impact monitoring programme should be drawn up by the ET one month prior to the commencement of the scheduled construction period
The ET should carry out impact monitoring at all the proposed monitoring stations, except AM5, throughout the entire construction work period. The impact monitoring at AM5 will be started after completion of the XRL project. For regular impact monitoring, the sampling frequency of at least once in every six days, should be strictly observed at all the monitoring stations for 24-hour TSP monitoring. For one-hour TSP monitoring, the sampling frequency of at least three times in every six days should be undertaken when the highest dust impact occurs. Before commencing baseline monitoring, the ET should inform the IEC of the impact monitoring programme. The IEC can carry out on-site audit to ensure accuracy of the impact monitoring results.
The specific time to start and stop the 24-hour TSP monitoring should be clearly defined for each monitoring 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, should be conducted within 24 hours after the result is obtained. This additional monitoring should be continued until the excessive dust emission or the deterioration in air quality is rectified and agreed with WKCDA and the IEC.
Audit of the TSP levels should be carried out by the ET to ensure that any deteriorating air quality could be readily detected and timely action taken to rectify the situation.
2.1.9 Event and Action Plan for Air Quality
Baseline monitoring results form the basis for determining the air quality criteria for the impact monitoring. The ET should compare the impact monitoring results with air quality criteria set up for 24-hour TSP and one-hour TSP level. Air quality criteria which name Action and Limit (AL) Levels to be used are shown in Table 2.2, AL are to be agreed between the ET, IEC and WKCDA prior to air monitoring commencement. Event and Action Plan (Table 2.3) list the action should be carried out when non-compliance of the air quality criteria occurs.
Table 2.2: Typical Action and Limit Level for Air Quality
Parameter |
Action Level |
Limit Level |
24-hr TSP Level in μg/m3 |
For baseline level ≤ 200 μg/m³, Action level = (130% of baseline level +
Limit level)/2 For baseline level > 200 μg/m³, Action level = Limit Level |
260 |
1-hr TSP Level in μg/m3 |
For baseline level ≤ 384 μg/m³, Action level = (130% of baseline level +
Limit level)/2 For baseline level > 384 μg/m³, Action level = Limit Level |
500 |
Table 2.3: Typical Event and Action Plan for Air Quality
Event |
ET |
IEC |
WKCDA |
Contractor |
Action Level |
|
|||
1. Exceedance
for one sample |
1. Identify source, investigate the causes
of exceedance and propose remedial measures; 2. Inform IEC and WKCDA; 3. Repeat measurement to confirm finding; 4. Increase monitoring frequency to daily. |
1. Check monitoring data submitted by ET; 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 source; 2. Inform IEC and WKCDA; 3. Advise the WKCDA on the effectiveness
of the proposed remedial measures; 4. Repeat measurements to confirm
findings; 5. Increase monitoring frequency to daily; 6. Discuss with IEC and Contractor on remedial
actions required; 7. If exceedance
continues, arrange meeting with IEC and WKCDA; 8. If exceedance stops, cease additional
monitoring. |
1. Check monitoring data submitted by ET; 2. Check Contractor’s working method; 3. Discuss with ET and Contractor on
possible remedial measures; 4. Advise the ET on the effectiveness of
the proposed remedial measures; 5. Monitor the implementation of remedial measures. |
1. Confirm receipt of notification of
failure in writing; 2. Notify Contractor; 3. Ensure remedial measures properly implemented. |
1. Submit proposals for remedial to WKCDA
within three working days of notification; 2. Implement the agreed proposals; 3. Amend proposal if appropriate. |
Limit Level |
|
|||
1. Exceedance
for one sample |
1. Identify source, investigate the causes
of exceedance and propose remedial measures; 2. Inform WKCDA, Contractor and EPD; 3. Repeat measurement to confirm finding; 4. Increase monitoring frequency to daily; 5. Assess effectiveness of Contractor’s
remedial actions and keep IEC, EPD and WKCDA
informed of the results. |
1. Check monitoring data submitted by ET; 2. Check Contractor’s working method; 3. Discuss with ET and Contractor on
possible remedial measures; 4. Advise the WKCDA on the effectiveness
of the proposed remedial measures; 5. Monitor the
implementation of remedial measures. |
1. Confirm receipt of notification of
failure in writing; 2. Notify Contractor; 3. Ensure remedial measures properly implemented. |
1. Take immediate action to avoid further exceedance; 2. Submit proposals for remedial actions
to IEC within three working days of notification; 3. Implement the agreed proposals; 4. Amend proposal if appropriate. |
2. Exceedance
for two or more consecutive samples |
1. Notify IEC, WKCDA, Contractor and EPD; 2. Identify source; 3. Repeat measurement to confirm findings; 4. Increase monitoring frequency to daily; 5. Carry out analysis of Contractor’s
working procedures to determine possible mitigation to be implemented; 6. Arrange meeting with IEC and WKCDA to
discuss the remedial actions to be taken; 7. Assess effectiveness of Contractor’s
remedial actions and keep IEC, EPD and WKCDA informed of the results; 8. If exceedance stops, cease additional monitoring. |
1. Check monitoring data submitted by ET; 2. Check Contractor’s working method; 3. Discuss amongst WKCDA, ET, and
Contractor on the potential remedial actions; 4. Review Contractor’s remedial actions
whenever necessary to assure their effectiveness and advise the WKCDA
accordingly; 5. Monitor the implementation of remedial
measures. |
1. Confirm receipt of notification of
failure in writing; 2. Notify Contractor; 3. In consolidation with the IEC, agree
with the Contractor on the remedial measures to be implemented; 4. Ensure remedial measures properly
implemented; 5. If exceedance
continues, consider what portion of the work is responsible and instruct the
Contractor to stop that portion of work until the exceedance
is abated. |
1. Take immediate action to avoid further exceedance; 2. Submit proposals for remedial actions
to IEC within three working days of notification; 3. Implement the agreed proposals; 4. Resubmit proposals if problem still not
under control; 5. Stop the relevant portion of works as
determined by the WKCDA until the exceedance is
abated. |
2.1.10 Mitigation Measures
Appropriate dust suppression measures should be adopted as required under the relevant requirements stipulated in the Air Pollution Control (Construction Dust) Regulation and EPD’s Guidance Note on the Best Practicable Means for Cement Works (Concrete Batching Plant) BPM 3/2(93) as well as the good practices for dust control should be implemented to reduce the dust impact. A control programme can be instigated to monitor the construction process in order to enforce dust controls and modify methods of works where feasible to reduce the dust emission down to acceptable levels. The implementation schedule of recommended air quality mitigation measures is presented in Appendix C.
2.2 Operational Odour Monitoring
2.2.1 General
While the odour emission from the nearby New Yau Ma Tei Typhoon Shelter
(NYMTTS) is not attributable to the WKCD Project, the odour emission would have
potential impacts on the proposed developments within WKCD. In view of this, the key objectives of the odour
monitoring are:
¡ to ascertain the effectiveness of the proposed improvement measures for NYMTTS in reducing the odour emissions; and
¡ to monitor any on-going odour impacts on the proposed developments within WKCD.
2.2.2 Odour Patrol
Odour patrol should be conducted by independent trained personnel / competent persons (at least 2 odour patrol members) patrolling and sniffing along an odour patrol route surrounding the watercourse boundary of NYMTTS to determine any potential odour impacts arising from NYMTTS. The odour patrol member should participate in a set of screening tests using a certified n-butanol gas with their individual thresholds (n-butanol) that comply with the requirement of European Standard Method (EN13725) in the range of 20 to 80 ppb. They should also be free from any respiratory diseases and do not normally work at or live in the area in the vicinity of typhoon shelter.
The proposed odour patrol route and the proposed sniffing locations
along the watercourse boundary of the NYMTTS during operation phase are shown
in Figure 2.2.
It is proposed
to conduct the odour patrol on a monthly basis during summer season (from July to
September) of the following two years as a minimum:
¡ Year 2016 when some of the WKCD facilities such as the Park (Phases 1A and 1B) and Xiqu Center will be in operation and yet the improvement measures for Cherry Street Box Culvert are yet to be completed; and
¡ Year 2019 when a significant amount of the WKCD facilities will be in operation and the improvement measures for Cherry Street Box Culvert would be completed.
Each odour patrol should be carried out
during daytime and evening / night time covering high tide and low tide
conditions. No odour patrol should be conducted during rainy days. The need to continue the odour patrol at the
end of 2016 would be subject to the odour patrol results and should be agreed
with EPD.
The need to further extend the odour patrol
after the end of 2019 would depend on the odour patrol results. If the results
of detected odour intensity at any sniffing location is higher than 1 due to
potential odour emission from NYMTTS in two
consecutive months, the odour patrol programme should be extended until the
odour intensity at all the sniffing locations have dropped to below 1 in three
consecutive months.
The independent trained personnel / competent persons should:
¡ have their individual odour threhold of n-butanol in nitrogen gas in the range of 20 to 80 ppb/v as required by the European Standard Method (EN 13725);
¡ be at least 16 year of age and willing and able to follow instructions;
¡ be free from any respiratory illnesses;
¡ be engaged for a sufficient period to build up and monitor / detect at several monitoring location;
¡ not be allowed to smoke, eat, drink (except water) or use chewing gum or sweets 30 min before and during odour intensity analysis;
¡ take great care not to cause any interference with their own perception or that of others by lack of personal hygiene or the use of perfumes, deodorants, body lotions or cosmetics; and
¡ not communicate with each other about the results of their choices.
At least two independent trained personnel / competent persons should be selected to form a patrol team to conduct the odour intensity analysis, who should participate in a set of screening tests.
Subject to the prevailing weather forecast condition, odour patrol should be conducted by independent trained personnel / competent persons along the proposed odour patrol route as shown in Figure 2.2. During the patrol, the sequence should start from less odorous locations to stronger odorous locations.
The independent trained personnel / competent persons should use their nose (olfactory sensors) to sniff odours at different locations. The main odour emission sources and the areas to be affected by the odour nuisance should be identified.
The perceived odour intensity is to be divided into 5 levels which are ranked in the descending order as follows:
¡ 0 - Not detected. No odour perceived or an odour so weak that it cannot be easily characterised or described;
¡ 1 - Slight Identifiable odour, and slight chance to have odour nuisance;
¡ 2 - Moderate Identifiable odour, and moderate chance to have odour nuisance;
¡ 3 - Strong Identifiable, likely to have odour nuisance;
¡ 4 - Extreme Severe odour, and unacceptable odour level.
The independent
trained personnel / competent persons should record the findings including time
of survey, tidal condition, weather condition such as sunny, fine, cloudy and
rainy, odour intensity, odour nature and possible odour sources, and also the
local wind speed and direction at each location. In addition, some relevant
meteorological data such as daily average temperature, and daily average
humidity, on that surveyed day should be obtained from the nearest Hong Kong
Observatory Station for reference. A sample data record sheet is shown in Appendix
B.
2.2.3 Mitigation Measures
The improvement measures for NYMTTS that would help reduce odour emissions have been recommended in the EIA Report. The implementation schedule of these measures are presented in Appendix C.
3.1 Construction Airborne Noise Monitoring
The construction noise level should
be measured in terms of the A-weighted equivalent continuous sound pressure
level (Leq). Leq (30
minutes) should be used as the monitoring parameter between 0700 and 1900 hours
on normal weekdays. For all other time periods, Leq
(5 minutes) should be employed for comparison with the Noise Control Ordinance
(NCO) criteria.
Supplementary information for
data auditing, statistical results such as L10 and L90 should also be obtained
for reference.
As referred to in the Technical
Memorandum (TM) issued under the NCO, sound level meters in compliance with the
International Electrotechnical Commission
Publications 651:1979 (Type 1) and 804:1985 (Type 1) specifications should be
used for carrying out the noise monitoring. Immediately prior to and following
each noise measurement the accuracy of the sound level meter should be checked
using an acoustic calibrator generating a known sound pressure level at a known
frequency. Measurements may be accepted
as valid only if the calibration level from before and after the noise
measurement agree to within 1.0 dB.
Noise measurements should not be
made in fog, rain, wind with a steady speed exceeding 5 m/s or wind with gusts
exceeding 10 m/s. The wind speed should be checked with a portable wind speed
meter capable of measuring the wind speed in m/s.
The ET is responsible for the
provision of the monitoring equipment. He should ensure that sufficient noise
measuring equipment and associated instrumentation are available for carrying
out the baseline monitoring, regular impact monitoring and ad hoc monitoring.
All the equipment and associated instrumentation should be clearly labelled.
A sample data record sheet is
shown in Appendix B for reference.
The noise monitoring locations (refer to Figure 3.1) are summarised in Table 3.1. The status and locations
of noise sensitive receivers may change after issuing this manual. If such cases exist, the ET should propose
updated monitoring locations and seek agreement from EPD, the WKCDA and the IEC before baseline monitoring commences.
Table 3.1: Construction Noise Monitoring Stations
ID |
ID adopted in
Construction Noise Assessment |
Description |
NM1 |
HT1 |
The Harbourside
Tower 1 |
NM2 |
AST |
The Arch - Sun Tower |
NM3 |
VT1 |
The Victoria Towers -
Tower 1 |
NM4 |
CRGPS |
Canton Road Government
Primary School |
NM5 |
RD |
Development next to
Austin Station (Monitoring to start
after completion of development in 2015, subject
to the construction programme of the development) |
When alternative monitoring
locations are proposed, the monitoring locations should be chosen based on the
following criteria:
¡ monitoring at sensitive receivers close to the major site activities which are likely to have noise impacts;
¡ monitoring at the noise sensitive receivers as defined in the Technical Memorandum; and
¡ assurance of minimal disturbance to the occupants during monitoring.
The monitoring station should
normally be at a point 1 m from the exterior of the sensitive receiver building
facade and be at a position 1.2 m above the ground. If there is problem with
access to the normal monitoring position, an alternative position may be
chosen, and a correction to the measurements should be made. For reference, a
correction of +3 dB(A) should be made to the free field measurements. The ET should
agree with the IEC on the monitoring position and the corrections adopted. Once
the positions for the monitoring stations are chosen, the baseline monitoring
and the impact monitoring should be carried out at the same positions.
The ET should carry out baseline
noise monitoring prior to the commencement of the construction works. The
baseline monitoring should be carried out daily for a period of at least two
weeks. Before commencing the baseline monitoring, the ET should develop and
submit to the IEC the baseline monitoring programme such that the IEC can
conduct on-site audit to check accuracy of the baseline monitoring results.
There should not be any
construction activities in the vicinity of the stations during the baseline
monitoring.
In exceptional cases, when insufficient baseline monitoring data or questionable results are obtained, the ET Leader should liaise with the WKCDA, EPD and IEC to agree on an appropriate set of data to be used as a baseline reference and submit to the WKCDA and IEC for agreement and EPD for approval.
Noise monitoring should be
carried out at all the designated monitoring stations, except NM5, throughout
the entire construction work period. The impact monitoring at NM5 will be
started after completion of the XRL project. The monitoring frequency should
depend on the scale of the construction activities. The following is an initial
guide on the regular monitoring frequency for each station on a weekly basis
when noise generating activities are underway:
¡ one set of measurements between 0700 and 1900 hours on normal weekdays
If construction works are
extended to include works during the hours of 1900 – 0700 as well as public
holidays and Sundays, additional weekly impact monitoring should be carried out
during respective restricted hours periods. Applicable permits under NCO should
also be obtained by the Contractor.
If a school exists near the
construction activity, noise monitoring should be carried out at the monitoring
stations for the schools during the school examination periods. The ET Leader should
liaise with the school’s personnel and the Examination Authority to ascertain
the exact dates and times of all examination periods during the course of the
contract.
In case of non-compliance with
the construction noise criteria, more frequent monitoring, as specified in the
Action Plan in Table 3.3, should be carried out. This additional monitoring should be continued
until the recorded noise levels are rectified or demonstrated to be unrelated
to the construction activities.
The Action and Limit (AL) Levels for construction noise are defined in Table 3.2. Should non-compliance of the criteria occur, action in accordance with the Event and Action Plan in Table 3.3 should be carried out.
Table 3.2: Action and Limit Level for Construction Noise
Time Period |
Action |
Limit |
0700-1900 hrs on normal weekdays |
When one valid documented complaint is received. |
75* dB(A) |
Note: *70 dB(A) for schools and 65 dB(A) during
school examination periods.
If works are to be
carried out during restricted hours, the conditions stipulated in the
Construction Noise Permit (CNP) issued by the Noise Control Authority have to
be followed.
Table 3.3: Event and Action Plan for Construction Noise
Event |
Action |
|||
ET |
IEC |
WKCDA |
Contractor |
|
Action Level |
1. Notify WKCDA, IEC and Contractor; 2.
Carry out investigation; 3. Report the results of investigation
to the IEC, WKCDA and Contractor; 4. Discuss with the IEC and Contractor
on remedial measures required; 5. Increase monitoring frequency to
check mitigation effectiveness. |
1. Review the investigation results
submitted by the ET; 2. Review the proposed remedial
measures by the Contractor and advise the WKCDA accordingly; 3. Advise the WKCDA on the
effectiveness of the proposed remedial measures. |
1. Confirm receipt of notification of
failure in writing; 2. Notify Contractor; 3. In consolidation with the IEC, agree
with the Contractor on the remedial measures to be implemented; 4. Supervise the implementation of
remedial measures. |
1. Submit noise mitigation proposals to
IEC and WKCDA; 2. Implement noise mitigation
proposals. |
Limit Level |
1. Inform IEC, WKCDA, Contractor and
EPD; 2. Repeat measurements to confirm
findings; 3. Increase monitoring frequency; 4. Identify source and investigate the
cause of exceedance; 5. Carry out analysis of Contractor’s
working procedures; 6. Discuss with the IEC, Contractor and
WKCDA on remedial measures required; 7. Assess effectiveness of Contractor’s
remedial actions and keep IEC, EPD and WKCDA informed of the results; 8. If exceedance
stops, cease additional monitoring. |
1. Discuss amongst WKCDA, ET, and
Contractor on the potential remedial actions; 2. Review Contractor’s remedial actions
whenever necessary to assure their effectiveness and advise the WKCDA
accordingly. |
1. Confirm receipt of notification of
failure in writing; 2. Notify Contractor; 3. In consolidation with the IEC, agree
with the Contractor on the remedial measures to be implemented; 4. Supervise the implementation of
remedial measures; 5. If exceedance
continues, consider stopping the Contractor to continue working on that
portion of work which causes the exceedance until
the exceedance is abated. |
1. Take immediate action to avoid
further exceedance; 2. Submit proposals for remedial
actions to IEC and WKCDA within 3 working days of notification; 3. Implement the agreed proposals; 4. Submit further proposal if problem still
not under control; 5. Stop the relevant portion of works
as instructed by the WKCDA until the exceedance is
abated. |
3.1.7 Mitigation Measures
Recommended construction noise control and mitigation measures are proposed in the EIA report. The Contractor should be responsible for the design and implementation of these measures under the supervision of the ER and monitored by the ET. The implementation schedule of the recommended noise mitigation measures is presented in Appendix C.
3.2 Operational Noise Monitoring
3.2.1 Traffic Noise Monitoring
With implementation of the proposed mitigation measures, no adverse road/marine traffic noise impacts are anticipated from the operation of the Project, hence no environmental monitoring and audit is proposed.
3.2.2 Fixed Plant Noise Monitoring
3.2.2.1 Maximum Permissible Sound Power Levels of Fixed Plant
The maximum permissible sound power levels of the identified fixed
noise sources of the Project were predicted in the EIA report. The
specified sound power levels should be implemented and refined by the
Contractor as appropriate to ensure that the noise impact associated with the
fixed plant operations would comply with the noise standards stipulated in the
EIAO-TM and NCO.
3.2.2.2 Commissioning Test
Prior to the operation of the Project, the Contractor should
conduct noise commissioning tests for all major fixed noise sources within WKCD. The
test should be carried out by a qualified person possessing at least 7 years of
noise control experience and a corporate membership of Hong Kong Institute of
Acoustics or equivalent. The
noise commissioning test report should be submitted to the ET Leader,IEC and WKCDA for approval.
3.2.3 Mitigation Measures
The relevant noise mitigation
measures have been recommended in the EIA Report. The implementation schedule of the mitigation
measures are given in Appendix C.
4.1 Construction Water Quality Monitoring
4.1.1 Introduction
Marine construction works that have potential water quality impacts include the modification of seawall and construction of landing steps and possible piers/viewing platform. Marine water quality monitoring should be carried out during the course of marine construction works, to ensure that any unacceptable increase in suspended solids/turbidity and decrease in dissolved oxygen due to marine construction activities could be readily detected and timely action be taken to rectify the situation.
4.1.2 Water Quality Parameters
Monitoring of Dissolved Oxygen (DO), Dissolved Oxygen Saturation (DO%), pH, temperature, turbidity, salinity, Suspended Solid (SS) and water depth should be undertaken at designated monitoring locations described in Section 4.1.3. All parameters should be measured in-situ whereas SS should be determined by the laboratory. DO should be presented in mg/L and in % saturation.
Sampling should be taken at three water depths, namely, 1m below water surface, mid-depth and 1m above sea bed, except at where the water depth is less than 6m and in which case the mid-depth station may be omitted. When the water depth is less than 3m, only the mid-depth station will be monitored.
The following sections describe the sampling procedure and monitoring equipments recommended for conducting the monitoring.
4.1.2.1 Sampling Procedure and Monitoring Equipment
Water samples for all monitoring parameters should be collected, stored, preserved and analysed according to Standard Methods, APHA 21st ed. and/or methods agreed by EPD. In-situ measurements at monitoring locations including DO, temperature, pH, turbidity and water depth should be collected by equipment with the characteristics and functions listed in the following sections. Other relevant data should also be recorded, including monitoring location/position, time, tidal stages, weather conditions and any special phenomena or work underway at the construction site.
A sample data record sheet is shown in Appendix
B for
reference.
The
following equipments and facilities should be
provided by the ET and used for the monitoring of water quality impacts.
4.1.2.2
Dissolved Oxygen and
Temperature Measuring Equipment
DO and
water temperature should be measured in-situ by a DO/ temperature meter. The
instrument should be portable and weatherproof using a DC power source. It
should have a membrane electrode with automatic temperature compensation
complete with a cable. The equipment should be capable of measuring:
¡ a DO level in the range of 0-20 mg/l and 0-200% saturation; and
¡ a temperature of between 0 and 45 degree Celsius.
4.1.2.3
pH Measuring
Instrument
A
portable pH meter capable of measuring a range between 0.0 and 14.0 should be
provided to measure pH under the specified conditions accordingly to the
Standard Methods, APHA.
4.1.2.4 Turbidity Measurement
Instrument
The
instrument should be portable and weatherproof using a DC power source. It
should have a photoelectric sensor capable of measuring turbidity between
0-1000 NTU.
4.1.2.5 Water Depth Detector
A
portable, battery-operated echo sounder should be used for the measurement of
water depth at each designated monitoring station. The unit would be either
handheld or affixed to the bottom of the work boat, if the same vessel is to be
used throughout the monitoring programme.
4.1.2.6 Calibration of
In-Situ Instruments
All
in-situ monitoring instruments should be calibrated and certified by a
laboratory accredited under HOKLAS or any other international accreditation
scheme before use, and subsequently re-calibrated at 3-month intervals
throughout all stages of the water quality monitoring programme. Responses of
sensors and electrodes should be checked with certified standard solutions
before each use.
Wet bulb
calibration for a DO probe should be carried out before measurement at each
monitoring station. A zero check in distilled water should be performed with
the turbidity probe at least once per monitoring day. The probe should then be
calibrated with a solution of known NTU. In addition, the turbidity probe
should be calibrated at least twice per month to establish the relationship
between turbidity readings (in NTU) and levels of suspended solids (in mg/L).
For the
on-site calibration of field equipment, the BS 127: 1993, Guide to Field and
On-Site Test Methods for the Analysis of Waters should be observed.
Sufficient
stocks of spare parts should be maintained for replacements when necessary.
Backup monitoring equipment should also be made available so that monitoring
could proceed uninterrupted even when some equipment is under maintenance,
calibration etc.
4.1.2.7
Sample Containers and Storage for Suspended Solids
Measurement
A water
sampler comprises a transparent PVC cylinder, with a capacity of not less than
2 litres, and could be effectively sealed with latex cups at both ends should
be used. The sampler should 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 (Kahlsico Water Sampler or
an approved similar instrument).
Water
samples for SS analysis should be stored in high density polythene bottles with
no preservative added, packed in ice (cooled to 4oC without being
frozen), delivered to the laboratory, and analysed as soon as possible after
collection.
4.1.2.8 Laboratory Measurement/Analysis
Analysis
of suspended solids should be carried out in a HOKLAS or other accredited
laboratory. Water samples of about 1L should be collected at the monitoring
stations for carrying out the laboratory suspended solids determination. The SS
determination work should start within 24 hours after collection of the water
samples. The SS analyses should follow the standard method APHA 2540D with a
detection limit of 1mg/L as described in APHA Standard Methods for the
Examination of Water and Wastewater, 21st Edition, unless otherwise
specified.
Additional
duplicate samples may be required by EPD for inter laboratory calibration.
Remaining samples after analysis should be kept by the laboratory for 3 months
in case repeat analysis is required. If in-house or non-standard methods are
proposed, details of the method verification may also be required to submit to
EPD. In any circumstance, the sample testing should have comprehensive quality
assurance and quality control programmes. The laboratory should prepare to demonstrate
the programmes to EPD or his representatives when requested.
It is proposed
to monitor the water quality at six locations close to the marine construction
works. Three control stations, within the same water body but is outside the area of
influence of the construction works as far as practicable, are proposed to be monitored. The locations
of the proposed stations are shown in Figure 4.1. The final locations and number of
the monitoring points should be agreed with EPD at least 2 weeks before
undertaking any works. The
status and locations of water sensitive receivers may change after issuing this
Manual. If such case exists, the ET Leader should propose updated monitoring
locations and seek approval from the IEC and EPD.
Table 4.1: Construction Water Quality Monitoring Stations
Station ID |
Descriptions |
Co-ordinates |
|
Easting (m) |
Northing (m) |
||
WM1 |
Possible Pier 1 |
834656 |
817884 |
WM2 |
Landing steps |
834422 |
817809 |
WM3 |
Landing steps |
834320 |
817700 |
WM4 |
Landing steps |
833901 |
817829 |
WM5 |
Possible Pier 2 |
833893 |
818074 |
WM6 |
Kowloon South Salt Water Pumping Station Intake |
833992 |
818268 |
Control1 |
Control station for WM1, WM2 & WM3 |
834822 |
817696 |
Control2 |
Control station for WM1 to WM5 |
833939 |
817670 |
Control3 |
Control station for WM4 & WM5 |
833795 |
818115 |
The purpose of the baseline monitoring is to establish ambient conditions prior to the commencement of marine construction works and to demonstrate the suitability of the proposed monitoring stations. The measurements should be taken at all designated monitoring stations, 3 days per week, for at least 4 consecutive weeks prior to the commencement of marine construction works.
Two consecutive measurements of DO concentration (mg/L), DO saturation (%) and turbidity (NTU) should be taken in-situ according to the stated sampling method. 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 should be discarded and further readings should be taken. Water samples for SS (mg/L) measurements should be collected at the same depths.
There should not be any construction activities over water in the vicinity of the points during baseline monitoring.
The interval between two sets of monitoring should not be less than 36 hours.
During the course of marine construction works, impact monitoring should be undertaken at all designated monitoring stations, including the control stations, three days per week, with sampling/measurement. The interval between two sets of monitoring should not be less than 36 hours except when the Action and/or Limit levels is/are exceeded, in which case the monitoring frequency should be increased.
Two consecutive measurements of DO concentration (mg/L), DO saturation (%) and turbidity (NTU) should be taken in-situ according to the stated sampling method. 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 should be discarded and further readings would be taken. Water samples for SS (mg/L) measurements should be collected at the same depths. Duplicate water samples should be taken and analysed.
In addition to the above in-situ measurements, water temperature and pH should be determined at all designated monitoring stations at the same depths, as specified above. Note that in addition to the water depth, monitoring location/position, time, weather conditions and any special phenomena should be recorded (refer to Appendix B).
4.1.6 Post-Construction Monitoring
Upon completion of all marine construction works, a post project water quality monitoring exercise should be carried out for four weeks upon completion of all marine construction works, in the same manner as the impact monitoring during construction phase.
Implementation of regular site audits (at least once per week) is to ensure that the recommended mitigation measures are to be properly undertaken during construction phase of the Project. It can also provide an effective control of any malpractices and therefore achieve continual improvement of environmental performance on site.
4.1.8 Event and Action Plan for Water Quality
The Action and Limit (AL) Levels for water quality are defined in Table 4.2. The actions in accordance with the Event and Action Plan in Table 4.3 should be carried out if the water quality assessment criteria are exceeded at any designated monitoring points.
Table 4.2: Typical Action and Limit Levels for Water Quality
Parameters |
Action Level |
Limit Level |
DO in mg/L |
5 percentile of baseline data for surface,
middle layer and bottom layer |
4mg/L or 1 percentile of baseline data for
surface and middle layer 2mg/L or 1 percentile of baseline data for
bottom layer |
SS in mg/L |
95 percentile of baseline data or 120% of
upstream control station’s SS at the same tide of the same day4 |
99 percentile of baseline data or 130% of
upstream control station’s SS at the same tide of the same day5 |
Turbidity in NTU |
95 percentile of baseline data or 120% of upstream control station’s turbidity
at the same tide of the same day |
99 percentile of baseline data or 130% of
upstream control station’s turbidity at the same tide of the same day |
Notes: 1. For DO measurement, non-compliance occurs when monitoring result is lower than the limits. 2. For SS and
turbidity, non-compliance of water quality results when monitoring results is
higher than the limits. 3. All the figures given in
the table are used for reference only and the EPD may amend the figures
whenever necessary. 4. The action level of SS
for WM6 (Kowloon South Salt
Water Pumping Station Intake) should be 95 percentile of
baseline data or 120% of upstream control station’s SS at the same tide of
the same day or 10mg/L. 5. The limit level of SS for WM6 (Kowloon South Salt Water Pumping Station
Intake) should be 99 percentile of baseline data or 130% of
upstream control station’s SS at the same tide of the same day or 10mg/L. |
Table 4.3: Event and Action Plan for Water Quality for Construction Phase
Event |
|
|
|
Action |
|
ET |
IEC |
WKCDA |
Contractor |
Action level being exceed by one sampling
day |
1. Repeat in-situ measurement to confirm findings; 2. Identify reasons for non-compliance and sources of impact; 3. Inform IEC and Contractor; 4. Check monitoring data, all plant, equipment and Contractor’s working
methods; 5. Discuss mitigation measures with IEC and Contractor; 6. Repeat measurement on next day of exceedance. |
1. Discuss with ET and Contractor on the mitigation
measures; 2. Review proposals on mitigation measures submitted by
Contractor and advise the WKCDA accordingly; 3. Assess the effectiveness of the implemented mitigation measures. |
1. Discuss with IEC on the proposed mitigation measures; 2. Make agreement on the mitigation measures to be implemented; 3. Assess the effectiveness of the implemented mitigation measures. |
1. Inform the WKCDA and confirm notification of the non-compliance in
writing; 2. Rectify unacceptable practice; 3. Check all plant and equipment; 4. Consider changes of working methods; 5. Discuss with ET and IEC and propose mitigation measures to IEC and
WKCDA; 6. Implement the agreed mitigation measures. |
Action level being exceeded by more than one
consecutive sampling days |
1. Repeat in-situ measurement to confirm findings; 2. Identify reasons for non-compliance and sources of impact; 3. Inform IEC and Contractor; 4. Check monitoring data, all plant, equipment and Contractor’s working
methods; 5. Discuss mitigation measures with IEC and Contractor; 6. Ensure mitigation measures are implemented; 7. Prepare to increase the monitoring frequency to daily; 8. Repeat measurement on next day of exceedance. |
1. Discuss with ET and Contractor on the mitigation measures; 2. Review proposals on mitigation measures submitted by Contractor and
advise the WKCDA accordingly; 3. Assess the effectiveness of the implemented mitigation measures. |
1. Discuss with IEC on the proposed mitigation measures; 2. Make agreement on the mitigation measures to be implemented; 3. Assess the effectiveness of the implemented mitigation measures. |
1. Inform the WKCDA and confirm notification of the non-compliance in
writing; 2. Rectify unacceptable practice; 3. Check all plant and equipment; 4. Consider changes of working methods; 5. Discuss with ET and IEC and propose mitigation measures to IEC and
WKCDA within 3 working days; 6. Implement the agreed mitigation measures. |
Limit level being exceed by one sampling
day |
1. Repeat in-situ measurement to confirm findings; 2. Identify reasons for non-compliance and sources of impact; 3. Inform IEC and Contractor; 4. Check monitoring data, all plant, equipment and Contractor’s working
methods; 5. Discuss mitigation measures with IEC and Contractor; 6. Ensure mitigation measures are implemented; 7. Increase the monitoring frequency to daily until no exceedance of Limit Level. |
1. Discuss with ET and Contractor on the mitigation
measures; 2. Review proposals on mitigation measures submitted by
Contractor and advise the WKCDA accordingly; 3. Assess the effectiveness of the implemented
mitigation measures. |
1. Discuss with IEC, ET and Contractor on the proposed mitigation
measures; 2. Request Contractor 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. |
1. Inform the WKCDA and confirm notification of the non-compliance in
writing; 2. Rectify unacceptable practice; 3. Check all plant and equipment; 4. Consider changes of working methods; 5. Discuss with ET and IEC and propose mitigation measures to IEC and
WKCDA; 6. Implement the agreed mitigation measures. |
Limit level being exceeded by more than one
consecutive sampling days |
1. Repeat in-situ measurement to confirm findings; 2. Identify reasons for non-compliance and sources of impact; 3. Inform IEC and Contractor; 4. Check monitoring data, all plant, equipment and Contractor’s working
methods; 5. Discuss mitigation measures with IEC and Contractor; 6. Ensure mitigation measures are implemented; 7. Increase the monitoring frequency to daily until no exceedance of Limit Level for two consecutive days. |
1. Discuss with ET and Contractor on the mitigation measures; 2. Review proposals on mitigation measures submitted by Contractor and
advise the WKCDA accordingly; 3. Assess the effectiveness of the implemented mitigation measures. |
1. Discuss with IEC, ET and Contractor on the proposed mitigation
measures; 2. Request Contractor 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; 5. Consider and instruct, if necessary, the Contractor to slow down or to
stop all or part of the construction activities until no exceedance
of Limit Level. |
1. Inform the WKCDA and confirm notification of the non-compliance in
writing; 2. Rectify unacceptable practice; 3. Check all plant and equipment; 4. Consider changes of working methods; 5. Discuss with ET, IEC and WKCDA and propose mitigation measures to IEC
and WKCDA within 3 working days; 6. Implement the agreed mitigation measures; 7. As directed by the WKCDA, to slow down or to stop all or part of the construction
activities. |
4.1.9 Mitigation Measures
The implementation schedule of the recommended water quality mitigation measures is presented in Appendix C.
4.2 Operational Water Quality Monitoring
Monitoring for the spent cooling water
discharge from District Cooling System (DCS) during operation phase should
follow the requirements as specified in the discharge license to be issued
under the Water Pollution Control Ordinance (WPCO). Details of monitoring including the locations, parameters, method of
monitoring should be referred to the discharge license to
be issued under the WPCO.
5.1 Construction Phase Monitoring
The sewage generated during the construction
stage from the on-site workers will be collected in chemical toilets and
disposed of off-site. Therefore, no sewerage impacts are expected from the site
during the construction phase. As such, environmental monitoring and audit of
the sewerage system is considered not required.
5.2 Operation Phase Monitoring
With the implementation of the proposed sewerage system according to the specifications and guidelines stated in Section 6 of the EIA report, no sewerage or sewage treatment implications are anticipated. No specific sewerage monitoring programme is thus required for the WKCD Development.
6.1 Construction Phase Monitoring
6.1.1
Monitoring
Requirements
The Contractor is responsible for waste management activities during the construction phase. The Contractor must ensure that all wastes produced during the construction phase are handled, stored and disposed of in accordance with EPD’s regulations and requirements and in line with good waste management practices. A Waste Management Plan should be prepared and implemented in accordance with ETWB TC (W) No. 19/2005 Environmental Management on Construction Site.
During
construction phase, regular site inspection (at least once per week) as part of
the EM&A procedures should be carried out to determine if wastes are being
managed in accordance with approved procedures and the Waste Management Plan. Waste materials generated during
the construction works, such as Construction and Demolition (C&D) material,
general refuse and chemical wastes, are recommended to be monitored on a weekly
basis to ensure that proper storage, transportation and disposal practices are
being implemented. This monitoring of waste management practices will ensure
that these solid and liquid wastes are not disposed into the nearby harbour
waters. The Contractor would be responsible for the implementation of any
mitigation measures to minimise waste or redress problems arising from the
waste materials.
It is recommended that the waste generated
during the construction activities should be audited periodically (at least once per week) to determine if wastes are being managed in accordance with approved
procedures and the site Waste Management Plan. The audits should look at all
aspects of waste management including waste generation, storage, transport and
disposal. An appropriate audit programme would be to undertake a first audit
near the commencement of the construction works, and then to audit periodically
thereafter. In addition, the routine site inspections should check the
implementation of the recommended good site practices and other waste
management mitigation measures.
A summary of all key types of waste arising and
the reuse and disposal methods proposed during the construction phase of the Project
is presented in Table 6.1.
6.1.3 Mitigation Measures
The implementation schedule of the
recommended waste management mitigation measures is presented in Appendix C.
6.2 Operation Phase Monitoring
The key waste
types generated during the operation phase will include general refuse from the
Core Arts and
Cultural Facilities (CACF) and Other Arts and Cultural
Facilities (OACF) operation, residential, office, hotel, retail and restaurant activities;
as well as chemical waste from regular servicing and maintenance activities for different
electrical and mechanical equipment. Provided that all these wastes are handled,
transported and disposed of in strict accordance with the relevant legislative
requirements and the recommended mitigation measures are properly implemented, no
adverse environmental impact is expected during the operation phase.
Therefore, no specific waste monitoring is required.
Table 6.1: Summary of Waste Arising during Construction Phase
Waste Type |
Key Sources of Waste Generation |
Timing of Waste Generation |
Estimated Quantity of Waste Generation |
Waste Reuse or Disposal |
Waste Handling |
Inert C&D Materials |
Majority from excavation work for the WKCD basement (including the
underpass road and the flyover); and minority from
construction of superstructures and substructures (Note: Excavation of marine sediments is not anticipated) |
Tentatively from 2013 to 2020 |
About 1,910,200 m3 in total |
About 156,400 m3 to be reused on-site as fill
materials for the Park About 905,000 m3 to be reused by two potential
projects, viz., HZMB project and 3rd runway project. Remaining quantity of about 848,800 m3 to be disposed of at the Government’s PFRFs for beneficial use by other
projects in Hong Kong (subject to endorsement by the relevant authorities including
PFC of CEDD and EPD) (Note: During the detailed design stage, further alternative disposal
arrangement, e.g., other potential projects
that could receive inert C&D materials from the WKCD Project, shall be
continuously explored and identified. If no potential projects could receive
the surplus inert C&D materials, the remaining inert C&D materials
could be disposed of at the Government's Public Fill Reception Facilities
(PFRFs) for beneficial use by any other projects in Hong Kong. No construction work is allowed to proceed until the
issues on management of C&D materials have been resolved and all relevant
arrangements have been endorsed by the relevant authorities (i.e. CEDD and
EPD).) |
Segregate inert C&D materials to avoid contamination from other
waste arising |
C&D Materials from Site Clearance |
General site clearance |
Tentatively from 2013 to 2017 |
About 108,300 m3 in total |
Any inert materials segregated from the
C&D materials to be reused on-site as far as practicable or disposed of
at the Government’s PFRFs
for beneficial use by other projects in Hong Kong Non-inert materials segregated from the
C&D materials to be disposed of at the designated landfill sites |
Segregate on site the C&D materials into inert and non-inert
materials |
General Refuse |
Waste paper, discarded containers, etc. generated from the site
workforce |
Tentatively from 2013 to 2020 (completion of Phase 1)
and beyond |
0.65 kg per worker per day, the maximum
daily arising of general refuse during the construction period would be
approximately 975 kg |
Refuse station for compaction and
containerisation and then to landfill for disposal |
Provide on-site refuse collection points |
Chemical Waste |
Used solvents, contaminated rags, waste lubricating oil, etc., from
maintenance and servicing of construction plant and equipment |
Tentatively from 2013 to 2020 (completion of Phase 1)
and beyond |
Few cubic metres per month (preliminary estimate) |
Disposal of at the Chemical Waste Treatment
Centre or other licensed recycling facilities |
Stored on-site by suitably designed containers for off-site disposal
or recycling |
7.1 Construction Phase Monitoring
In view of the desktop review results and the site inspection findings, bulk excavation of soil for land remediation is not expected at this stage. As such, any environmental monitoring in relation to land remediation is not required, unless a need for land remediation is identified during the future site investigation for the Tsim Sha Tsui Fire Station area. Since the TST Fire Station will remain in operation during the period between now and 2020, and leakage or spillage from the underground fuel oil tanks or pipes, or during refilling might occur. Therefore, further site visit and site investigation/laboratory chemical analysis are suggested to be conducted after land acquisition so that the investigation results will be up to date.
During construction phase, Environmental
Monitoring and Audit (EM&A) should be carried out in the form of regular
site inspection. All related procedures and facilities for handling or storage
of chemicals and chemical wastes should be audited regularly to make sure they are
in order and intact and reported in the EM&A reports as such.
7.2 Operation Phase Monitoring
The planned land uses within WKCD will mainly include arts and cultural facilities, public open space, commercial establishments, retails, hotels and residential developments. There will be no industrial activities taking place at the Project area during operation phase. Therefore, no contaminated land issue is anticipated. Monitoring programme during operational phase is considered not necessary.
Since no specific ecological mitigation
measure is required, environmental monitoring and audit activities for ecology are
not required.
9.1
Introduction
In addition to ensuring the effective implementation of mitigation measures recommended in Section 10.7 of the EIA report and compliance with relevant environmental standards, this section proposes systematic procedures for monitoring the anticipated landscape and visual impacts and implementation of proposed mitigation measures.
The baseline monitoring aims to establish a baseline that collects information on the current site characteristics prior to the development in order to:
¡ Make comparisons between pre-development and post-development;
¡ Detect changes; and
¡ Make comparisons against a standard.
Baseline studies on
landscape and visual amenity of the site and its surroundings have been
provided in Section 10.4 of the EIA
report which documents the existing environmental conditions prior to the development.
A one-off survey shall be undertaken to
update and record the baseline conditions with photographs prior to the
commencement of construction works.
9.3.1
Mitigation
Measures for Construction Phase Impacts
Mitigation measures are proposed in
the EIA report to minimise the landscape and visual impacts during the
construction phase. Tables 9.1 and 9.2 summarise these proposed
mitigation measures for landscape and visual impacts respectively.
Table 9.1: Landscape mitigation measures during construction phase
Ref. No. |
Mitigation Measures during
Construction Phase |
Funding Agency |
Implementation Agency |
Management/ Maintenance
Agency |
CM1 |
Trees should be retained
in situ on site as far as possible. Should tree removal be unavoidable due to
construction impacts, trees will be transplanted or felled with reference to
the stated criteria in the Tree Removal Applications to be submitted to
relevant government departments for approval in accordance to ETWB TCW No.
29/2004 and 3/2006. |
WKCDA |
Contractor |
WKCDA or appointed
landscape contractor |
CM2 |
Compensatory tree
planting shall be incorporated to the proposed project and maximise the new tree, shrubs and other vegetation planting to
compensate tree felled and vegetation removed. Also, implementation of compensatory planting should be of a ratio not less
than 1:1 in terms of quality and quantity within the site. |
WKCDA |
Contractor |
WKCDA or appointed
landscape contractor |
CM3 |
Buffer trees for
screening purposes to soften the hard architectural and engineering
structures and facilities. |
Same as above |
Contractor |
WKCDA or appointed
landscape contractor |
CM4 |
Softscape treatments such as vertical green wall panel /planting of climbing and/or weeping plants, etc,
to maximize the green coverage and soften the hard architectural
and engineering structures and facilities. |
Same as above |
Detailed Design Consultant/ Contractor |
WKCDA or appointed landscape contractor |
CM5 |
Roof greening by means of intensive and extensive green roof to maximize the green coverage and improve aesthetic
appeal and visual quality of the building/structure. |
Same as above |
Detailed Design Consultant/ Contractor |
WKCDA or appointed landscape contractor |
CM6 |
Sensitive streetscape
design should be incorporated along all new roads and streets. |
Same as above |
Detailed Design Consultant/ Contractor |
WKCDA or appointed landscape contractor |
CM7 |
Structure, ornamental
planting shall be provided along amenity strips to enhance the landscape
quality. |
Same as above |
Contractor |
WKCDA or appointed landscape contractor |
CM8 |
Landscape design shall
be incorporated to architectural and engineering structures in order to
provide aesthetically pleasing designs. |
Same as above |
Detailed Design Consultant / Contractor |
WKCDA or appointed landscape contractor |
CM9 |
Minimize the structure of marine facilities to built on the seabed and foreshore in order to minimize the affected extent to the waterbody |
Same as above |
Detailed Design Consultant / Contractor |
WKCDA or appointed landscape contractor |
Table 9.2: Visual mitigation measures during construction phase
|
Mitigation Measure |
Target VSRs |
Funding Agency |
Implementation Agency |
Management/ Maintenance Agency |
MCP1 |
Use of decorative screen hoarding
/ boards |
Mostly the VSRs located in proximity to the WKCD site and the transient
VSRs VSR 1, VSR 2, VSR 3, VSR 8, VSR 9, VSR10,VSR 11, VSR 12, VSR 15,
VSR 16, VSR 17, VSR 18, VSR 20, VSR 21, VSR 24, VSR 29, VSR 33, VSR 34, VSR
35, VSR 40, VSR 41& VSR 42 |
WKCDA |
Contractor |
Contractor |
MCP2 |
The early introduction of
landscape treatments |
All VSRs except VSR 5, VSR 6, VSR 7, VSR 13, VSR 14, VSR 22, VSR 23,
VSR 32, VSR 33, VSR 34,VSR 35, VSR 36, VSR 37, VSR 38, VSR 39 & VSR 43 |
WKCDA |
Contractor |
WKCDA or appointed landscape contractor |
MCP3 |
During the transition
period, the temporary ventilation shafts for the basement will adopt a light
colour |
All VSRs except VSR 5, VSR 6, VSR 7, VSR 14,VSR 19, VSR 20, VSR 34, VSR 35, VSR 36
& VSR 39 |
WKCDA |
Design Architect / Contractor |
WKCDA |
MCP4 |
Control of night time
lighting. |
Mostly the nearby residential VSRs VSR 8, VSR 9, VSR 10, VSR 11, VSR 12, VSR 14, VSR 16, VSR 18, VSR 20, VSR 21, VSR 22, VSR 25 & VSR 28 |
WKCDA |
Contractor |
Contractor |
MCP5 |
The use of greenery such
as grass cover for the temporary landscaped areas during transition period will
help achieve the visual balance and reduce the visual impacts |
Mostly the VSRs located to the south and in proximityof
the WKCD site, and across the Harbour VSR 1, VSR 2, VSR 3, VSR 4, VSR 8, VSR 9, VSR 10, VSR 11, VSR 12, VSR 16, VSR 17, VSR 18, VSR 20, VSR 21, VSR 25, VSR 26 & VSR 28 |
WKCDA |
Contractor |
WKCDA or appointed landscape contractor |
9.3.2
Mitigation
Measures for Operation Phase Impacts
Mitigation measures to minimise the landscape and visual impacts during
the operation phase are proposed in the EIA report. Tables 9.3 and 9.4 summarise these proposed
mitigation measures for landscape and visual impacts respectively.
Table 9.3: Landscape mitigation measures during operation phase
Ref. No. |
Mitigation Measures during Operation Phase |
Funding Agency |
Implementation Agency |
Management/ Maintenance Agency |
OM1 |
Provide proper planting establishment works, including watering,
pruning, weeding, pest control, replacement of dead plant, etc, on the new planting areas to enhance the aesthetic
design degree |
WKCDA |
Contractor |
WKCDA or appointed
landscape contractor |
OM2 |
Provision of open space in various forms and at different levels on or
above ground, including park, waterfront promenade, piazzas and terrace
garden and associated green connections for public enjoyment. |
WKCDA |
Detailed Design Consultant / Contractor |
WKCDA or appointed landscape contractor |
Table 9.4: Visual mitigation measures during operation phase
|
Mitigation Measure |
Target VSRs |
Funding Agency |
Implementation Agency |
Management / Maintenance Agency |
||
Good Design Feature |
|||||||
GDF1 |
Control of Development
Heights and Massing and Distinctive Architectural Design) With well designed low to medium-rise buildings, the proposed
WKCD development is anticipated to be highly compatible with the surroundings. |
Mostly the VSRs located
to the south and the southeast of the
site, across the Harbour and in proximity VSR 1, VSR 2, VSR 3, VSR
4, VSR 24, VSR 25, VSR 26, VSR 27, VSR 28, VSR 29, VSR 30,VSR 31, VSR 40. |
WKCDA |
Design Architect /
Contractor |
WKCDA / developer of
individual buildings |
||
GDF2 |
Creation of View Corridor The buildings on the WKCD
are designed to allow visual permeability from the WKT to Victoria Harbour,
which is achieved by alignment of the buildings on the WKCD. |
VSRs located close to WKT VSR9, VSR 10, VSR 11, VSR 12, VSR 15, VSR 16 & VSR 41. |
WKCDA |
Design Architect |
WKCDA |
||
GDF3 |
Preservation of Open Vista from the Heritage Sites An open vista and green
corridor from the heritage sites consisting of the declared monuments of St.
Andrew’s Church, former Kowloon British School (now Antiques and Monuments
Office) and Hong Kong Observatory through Kowloon Park, and along the WKCD
waterfront promenade towards the Victoria Harbour will be preserved. |
VSR 37, VSR 38 & VSR
39. |
WKCDA |
Design Consultant / WKCDA |
n/a |
||
GDF4 |
Provision of Open Space at Grade The open space will be
provided in various forms at grade in the WKCD, including piazzas, a
landscaped waterfront promenade and various green spaces. |
All VSRs except VSR 36,
VSR 37, VSR 38, VSR 39 & VSR 43. |
WKCDA |
Design Architect / Contractor |
WKCDA or appointed
landscape contractor |
||
GDF 5 |
Provision of Terrace Gardens As one of the
requirements of the proposed WKCD development, the unique designed terrace gardens could be also considered as a good design feature to lessen the visual impacts and provide new visual resources when
viewed from the VSRs at higher levels. |
Mostly the VSRs located at the upper levels, e.g. VSR 4,VSR 8, VSR 10, VSR 11,
VSR 12, VSR 16, VSR 18, VSR 20, VSR 21, VSR 24, VSR 25, VSR 26, VSR 27 & VSR 28. |
WKCDA |
Design Architect / Contractor |
WKCDA or appointed landscape contractor / developer of individual buildings |
||
Mitigation Measure |
|||||||
MOP1 |
Undulating berms and the
trees planted in the surroundings of the existing WHC and MTR ventilation
buildings. |
Mostly the VSRs located to the south, the southeast and the west of the
site, e.g. VSR 1, VSR 2, VSR 3, VSR 4, VSR 8, VSR 10, VSR 24, VSR 25, VSR 26,
VSR 27, VSR 28, VSR 29, VSR 30, VSR 31 & VSR 41. |
WKCDA |
Contractor |
WKCDA or appointed landscape contractor |
||
MOP2 |
Clusters of shade
planting and appropriate landscaping are designed to provide a relaxing
waterfront environment, soften the water edge and helps mitigate the visual impacts associated with the existing WHC and MTR
ventilation buildings. |
Mostly the VSRs located to the south and the west of the site, and those located across the harbour, e.g. VSR 1, VSR 2, VSR 3, VSR 4, VSR 24, VSR 25, VSR 26, VSR 27, VSR 28, VSR 29, VSR 30, VSR 31 & VSR 40. |
WKCDA |
Landscape Architect / Contractor |
WKCDA or appointed landscape contractor |
||
MOP3 |
As provision of roof top
gardens/green roof is not one of the requirements of the WKCD development, they could be also considered as a mitigation measure to lessen the visual impacts and provide new visual resources when
viewed from the VSRs at higher levels. |
Mostly the VSRs located at the upper levels, e.g. VSR 4,VSR 8, VSR 10, VSR 11,
VSR 12, VSR 16, VSR 18, VSR 20, VSR 21, VSR 24, VSR 25, VSR 26, VSR 27 & VSR 28. |
WKCDA |
Design Architect / Contractor |
WKCDA or appointed landscape contractor / developer of individual buildings |
||
MOP4 |
Buffer trees for
screening purposes or other softscape treatments
such as vertical greening /climbers /roof top garden shall be incorporated to
soften the hard architectural and engineering structures and facilities. |
All VSRs except VSR 36, VSR 43 |
WKCDA |
Contractor |
WKCDA or appointed landscape contractor |
||
MOP5 |
Mitigation measures for
wind turbines located along the waterfront include use of natural colour
tones (e.g. green colour), to make them visually more compatible with the surroundings. |
Mostly the VSRs located to the south and the west of the site (e.g.
VSR 1, VSR 2, VSR 4, VSR 25, VSR 26, VSR 27 VSR 28, VSR 29, VSR 30, VSR 31 & VSR 40) |
WKCDA |
Design Architect / Contractor |
WKCDA |
||
MOP6 |
Appropriate
positioning and angling of the solar panels to avoid significant visual
impacts on the VSRs located at upper levels in close proximity. |
VSRs located at upper levels in close
proximity, e.g. VSR 9, VSR 10, VSR 11, VSR 12, VSR 16, VSR 18, VSR 20, VSR 21, VSR 25,
VSR 26, VSR 27 & VSR 28. |
WKCDA / developer of individual buildings |
WKCDA / developer of individual buildings |
WKCDA / developer of individual buildings |
||
MOP7 |
Aesthetic design of
roads and streetscapes |
VSRs located to immediately to the north and
east of the WKCD site eg. VSR 8, VSR 9, VSR10, VSR 11, VSR 12, VSR 15, VSR 16, VSR 17, VSR 18, VSR 20, VSR 21, VSR
33, VSR 34, VSR 35, VSR 36 and transient VSRs (ie VSR 41 & VSR 42) |
WKCDA |
Design Architect / Contractor |
WKCDA or appointed landscape contractor |
||
MOP8 |
Human scale design for the WKT Plaza and the Intersection of Canton
Road and Austin Road West |
VSRs located close to the
WKT Plaza and the Intersection of Canton Road and Austin Road West VSR 9, VSR 11, VSR 15, VSR 16, VSR 17, VSR 18, VSR 20, VSR 21 and transient VSRs (ie VSR 41 & VSR 42) |
WKCDA / MTRC |
Design Architect / Contractor |
WKCDA or appointed landscape contractor |
||
MOP9 |
Night time lighting control measures such as the use of sensors and timers could help reduce
usage after hours. |
Mostly the nearby residential VSRs, e.g. VSR 8, VSR 9, VSR 10, VSR 11,
VSR 12, VSR 16, VSR 18, VSR 21, VSR 22, VSR 25 & VSR 28 |
WKCDA |
WKCDA / developer of individual buildings |
WKCDA / developer of individual buildings |
||
9.4
Environmental
Monitoring and Audit Requirements
An Environmental Team (ET) should be employed by the WKCDA to undertake
the EM&A works. The ET should include a Registered Landscape Architect
(RLA), or capable person, as landscape auditor. The Independent Environmental
Checker (IEC) will be engaged by the WKCDA to audit the works of the ET, who is
responsible for reviewing the EM&A works performed by the ET, auditing the
monitoring activities and results and reviewing proposals on mitigation
measures submitted by the Contractor.
During the landscape and visual impact monitoring, any changes in relation to the landscape and visual amenity should be monitored with reference to the baseline conditions of the site. In addition, proposed mitigation measures as shown in Tables 9.1 to 9.4 should be checked for proper implementation.
The proposed monitoring program for landscape and visual impact is detailed in Table 9.5.
Table 9.5: Monitoring Program for Landscape and Visual Impact
Stage |
Monitoring Task |
Frequency |
Report |
Approval |
Design |
Design check by ET to make sure the design
complies with the proposed mitigation measures in the EIA report. |
Once at completion of Design Stage |
ET to confirm that the design complies with
the proposed mitigation measures in the EIA report. |
WKCDA |
Construction |
Monitor implementation of proposed
mitigation measures during the construction stage. |
Bi-weekly |
ET to report on Contractor’s compliance |
Counter-signed by IEC |
Operation |
Monitor soft landscape works during the
12-month establishment period after construction completes. |
Monthly |
ET to report on Contractor’s compliance |
Counter-signed by IEC |
In case of non-compliance
of landscape and visual impacts, procedures in accordance with the action plan
as shown in Table 9.6 should be followed.
Table 9.6: Event and Action Plan for Landscape and Visual Impact
Event/ Action |
Action |
|||
ET |
IEC |
WKCDA |
Contractor |
|
Design Check |
1. Design check to make sure the design
complies with all the proposed mitigation measures in the EIA report; 2. Prepare and submit report. |
1. Check report submitted by ET; 2. Recommend remedial design if necessary. |
1. Undertake remedial design if necessary. |
|
Non-conformity on one occasion |
1. Identify
source of non-conformity; 2. Report
to IEC and WKCDA; 3. Discuss
remedial actions with IEC, WKCDA and Contractor; 4. Monitor
remedial actions until rectification has been completed. |
1. Check
and verify source of non-conformity; 2. Discuss
remedial actions with ET and Contractor; 3. Advise WKCDA on effectiveness of proposed
remedial actions; 4. Check
implementation of remedial actions. |
1. Notify
Contractor; 2. Ensure
remedial actions are properly implemented. |
1. Amend
working method as necessary; 2. Rectify
damage and undertake necessary replacement and remedial actions. |
Repeated non-conformity |
1. Identify
source of non-conformity; 2. Report
to IEC and WKCDA; 3. Increase
monitoring frequency; 4. Discuss
remedial actions with IEC, WKCDA and Contractor; 5. Monitor
remedial actions until rectification has been completed; 6. If
non-conformity rectified, reduce monitoring frequency back to normal. |
1. Check
and verify source of non-conformity; 2. Check
Contractor’s working method; 3. Discuss
remedial actions with ET and Contractor; 4. Advise
WKCDA on effectiveness of proposed remedial actions; 5.
Supervise implementation of remedial actions. |
1. Notify
Contractor; 2. Ensure
remedial actions are properly implemented. |
1. Amend
working method as necessary; 2. Rectify
damage and undertake necessary replacement and remedial actions. |
This section details the specific EM&A requirements for Schedule 2 Designated Project “an underpass more than 100m in length under the built areas (Item A.9, Part I, Schedule 2)”. The requirements, methodology, equipment, monitoring locations, criteria and protocols for the monitoring and audit for this Designated Project are presented. The Project organisation, environmental auditing and reporting requirements are stipulated in Chapters 1, 12 & 13 of this Manual respectively.
10.2.1 Existing Site Conditions
The site for the underpass road is located within the proposed WKCD site as shown in Figure 10.1. The site is currently zoned as “West Kowloon Cultural District Development Plan Area” under the Approved South West Kowloon Outline Zoning Plan (No. S/K20/28) gazetted on 8 January 2013, and combined with the proposed WKCD basement, comprises approximately 15ha of land bordering the Jordan/Tsim Sha Tsui area. The site reserved for the underpass road is currently occupied by works sites, local roads, temporary storage / parking facilities, some existing infrastructure and utility facilities, the existing Tsim Sha Tsui Fire Station and the works site and temporary works areas for the Hong Kong Section of the Guangzhou-Shenzhen-Hong Kong Express Rail Link (XRL) project.
10.2.2 Project Components
The underpass road forms part of the infrastructure and supporting facilities for the WKCD development, in particular it is an integral part of the WKCD basement structure. The underpass road is located mainly on the WKCD Basement Level 1 (between 0.6mPD and 1.65 mPD), except at the vehicular access points where the underpass road connects to existing ground level roads adjacent to the WKCD site. There are three access points to the underpass road (shown in Figure 10.1), one at Lin Cheung Road underpass, one at the junction with the proposed WKCD Park drive (extension of Nga Cheung Road), and one at Canton Road. Due to the delayed relocation of the Tsim Sha Tsui Fire Station, the access point at Canton Road will not be constructed until after relocation of the Fire Station, and an interim access point will be provided at Austin Road West until the permanent access point at Canton Road is constructed, after which the interim access road will be closed off permanently. After entering WKCD, there will be a carriageway route along the centre of the basement at +0.6mPD which provides access to each building development. In addition, the access also connects the carpark, coach parking and loading/unloading areas inside the basement.
The proposed underpass road is approximately 1400m in length which is comprised of three distinct sections (shown in Figure 10.1).
Section I comprises the underpass road with approach ramps linking up the Canton Road / Interim Austin Road West entrance (at level +5mPD) and the central roundabout at the Lin Cheung Road entrance (at level +0.6mPD) is a 10.3m standard wide single 2 lane carriageway with service roads on either side for loading / unloading facilities. A full highway standard headroom of 5.1m is provided such that all vehicle types can enter into the basement level. The central Lin Cheung Road roundabout is designed as a free flow roundabout with 30m inner radius. The roundabout will enable traffic from the Lin Cheung Road Access to go into the internal circulation system of WKCD without delay.
Section II (at level +0.6mPD) continues from Section I as a 6.75m standard dual 2 lane road east-west to an internal roundabout of 45m in diameter. Pick up/drop off lay-bys are provided along the basement driveway. This section has links to a service road running along the northern perimeter of the site, and access points to the carpark at Basement Level 2 (at level -5mPD).
Section III continues from the internal roundabout and routes south and then west before rising in level to clear the existing MTRC railway tunnels and connect to the Park Drive. This section is a 10.3m standard wide single 2 lane carriageway with lay-bys and servicing accesses. The west entrance will be connected to the new at-grade access road running along the outside perimeter of the portal of the Western Harbour Crossing which will connect to both the at-grade and elevated junctions of Austin Road West and Nga Cheung Road.
Vehicles accessing the district will mainly use the depressed junction at Austin Road West and Lin Cheung Road.
10.2.3 Tentative Construction Programme
It is targeted to commence construction of the critical elements of the WKCD in 2013 so as to commission the Phase 1 arts and cultural facilities in stages starting from 2014/2015. As construction of the underpass road is integrated with construction of the WKCD basement, the programme for this Schedule 2 Project is the same as that for Zones 1 to 3 shown in Appendix A.
10.3.1 Construction Air Quality Monitoring
10.3.1.1 General
It is proposed to carry out environmental monitoring and audit during the construction phase of the proposed underpass roads within the WKCD site to check and ensure compliance with the relevant air quality standards by effective implementation of the recommended construction dust mitigation measures. Potential air quality impact arising from the construction works would mainly be due to excavation, foundation works, site formation and movement of mobile plant and vehicles on haul roads, as well as the operation of a concrete batching plant and barging facilities. During operation phase, no environmental monitoring and audit is considered necessary.
The objectives of the dust monitoring are:
¡ to identify the extent of dust impact during construction phase on sensitive receivers;
¡ to audit the compliance of the Contractor with regard to dust control, contract conditions and the relevant dust impact criteria;
¡ to determine the effectiveness of mitigation measures to control fugitive dust emission from activities during the construction phase;
¡ to recommend further mitigation measures if found to be necessary, and;
¡ to comply with Action and Limit Levels for air quality as defined in this Manual.
Details of the environmental monitoring and audit requirements during construction phase are presented below.
10.3.1.2 Air Quality Parameters
Monitoring and audit of the Total Suspended Particulate (TSP) levels during the construction phase should be carried out by the Environmental Team (ET) to ensure that any deteriorating air quality could be readily detected and timely actions taken to rectify the situation.
The TSP levels should be measured by following the standard method as set out in High Volume Method for Total Suspended Particulates, Part 50 Chapter 1 Appendix B, Title 40 of the Code of Federal Regulations of the USEPA (HVS method).
One-hour and 24-hour TSP levels should be measured to indicate the impacts of construction dust on air quality. Upon approval of the IEC, one-hour TSP levels can be measured by direct reading methods which are capable of producing comparable results as that by the HVS method, to indicate short event impacts.
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, other special phenomena and work progress of the concerned project area, etc should be recorded. A sample data record sheet is shown in Appendix B. The ET may develop a project specific record sheet to suit this EM&A programme.
10.3.1.3 Monitoring Equipment
High Volume Sampler (HVS) in compliance with the following specifications should be used for carrying out the one-hour or 24-hour TSP monitoring:
¡ 0.6 - 1.7 m3/min (20 - 60 standard cubic feet per minute) adjustable flow range;
¡ equipped with a timing / control device with +/- 5 minutes accuracy for 24 hours operation;
¡ installed with elapsed-time meter with +/- 2 minutes accuracy for 24 hours operation;
¡ capable of providing a minimum exposed area of 406 cm2 (63 in2);
¡ flow control accuracy: +/- 2.5% deviation over 24-hr sampling period;
¡ incorporated with an electronic mass flow rate controller or other equivalent devices;
¡ equipped with a flow recorder for continuous monitoring;
¡ provided with a peaked roof inlet;
¡ incorporated with a manometer;
¡ able to hold and seal the filter paper to the sampler housing at horizontal position;
¡ easy to change the filter, and;
¡ capable of operating continuously for 24-hour period.
The ET is
responsible for provision of the monitoring equipment. They should ensure that
sufficient numbers of HVSs with an appropriate calibration kit are available
for carrying out the baseline monitoring, regular impact monitoring and ad hoc
monitoring. The HVSs should 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., should be clearly labelled.
Initial
calibration of dust monitoring equipment should be conducted upon installation
and thereafter at bi-monthly intervals. The transfer standard should be
traceable to the internationally recognised primary standard and be calibrated
annually. The concern parties such as Independent Environmental Checker (IEC) should
properly document the calibration data for future reference. All the data
should 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 should
be verified to be constant and be recorded in the data sheet, shown in Appendix
B.
If the ET proposes
to use a direct reading dust meter to measure one-hour TSP levels, sufficient
information should be submitted to the IEC to prove that the instrument is
capable of achieving a comparable result to the HVS. The instrument should also
be calibrated regularly, and the one-hour sampling should be determined
periodically by the HVS to check the validity and accuracy of the results
measured by direct reading method.
Wind data
monitoring equipment should be provided and set up for logging wind speed and
wind direction near the dust monitoring locations. The equipment installation
location should be proposed by the ET and agreed with the IEC. For installation
and operation of wind data monitoring equipment, the following points should be
observed:
¡ the wind sensors should be installed 10 m above ground so that they are clear of obstructions or turbulence caused by buildings;
¡ the wind data should be captured by a data logger. The data should be downloaded for analysis 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 the WKCDA and agreement from the IEC.
10.3.1.4 Laboratory Measurement / Analysis
A clean laboratory with constant temperature
and humidity control, and equipped with necessary measuring and conditioning
instruments to handle the dust samples collected, should be available for
sample analysis, equipment calibration and maintenance. The laboratory should
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 should be approved by the WKCDA and the
measurement procedures should be witnessed by the IEC. Any measurement
performed by the laboratory should be demonstrated to the satisfaction of the
WKCDA and IEC. IEC should regularly audit to the measurement performed by the
laboratory to ensure the accuracy of measurement results. The ET Leader should
provide the WKCDA with one copy of the Title 40 of the Code of Federal
Regulations, Chapter 1 (Part 50), Appendix B for his reference.
Filter paper of size 8" x 10" should
be labelled before sampling. It should be a clean filter paper with no
pinholes, and should be conditioned in a humidity-controlled chamber for over
24-hours and be pre-weighed before use for the sampling.
After sampling, the filter paper loaded with
dust should be kept in a clean and tightly sealed plastic bag. The filter paper
should then be returned to the laboratory for reconditioning in the
humidity-controlled chamber followed by accurate weighing by an electronic
balance with readout down to 0.1 mg. The balance should be regularly calibrated
against a traceable standard.
All collected samples should be kept in good
condition for six months before disposal.
10.3.1.5 Monitoring Location
Five air quality monitoring locations are proposed and summarised in Table 10.1 and shown in Figure 10.2, subject to approval from the premises landlord for dust monitoring equipment installation. The status and locations of dust sensitive receivers may change after issuing this report. If such cases exist, the ET should propose updated monitoring locations and seek agreement from EPD, and agreement from WKCDA and IEC before baseline monitoring commences.
Table 10.1: Construction Air Quality Monitoring Stations for Underpass Roads
ID |
Description |
AM1 |
International Commerce Centre |
AM2 |
The Harbourside Tower 1 |
AM3 |
The Victoria Towers - Tower 1 |
AM4 |
Canton Road Government Primary School |
AM5 |
Topside Developments at West Kowloon Terminus Site (Monitoring to start after completion of development in 2015, subject to the construction programme of
XRL) |
When alternative monitoring locations are
proposed, the proposed site should, as far as practicable:
¡ be at the site boundary or such locations close to the major dust emission source;
¡ be close to the sensitive receptors, and;
¡ take into account the prevailing meteorological conditions.
Monitoring
equipment must be positioned, sited and orientated properly. The ET should agree with the WKCDA in
consultation with the IEC on the position of the HVS for the installation of
the monitoring equipment. When positioning the samplers, the following points should
be noted:
¡ a horizontal platform with appropriate support to secure the samplers against strong wind should be provided;
¡ no two samplers should be placed less than two meters apart;
¡ the distance between the sampler and an obstacle, such as buildings, must be at least twice the height that the obstacle protrudes above the sampler;
¡ a minimum of two meters of separation from walls, parapets and penthouses is required for rooftop samplers;
¡ a minimum of two meters 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 meters from the dripline;
¡ wire fence or gates used to protect the sampler, should not cause any obstruction during monitoring;
¡ permission must be obtained to set up the samplers and to obtain access to the monitoring stations, and;
¡ a secured supply of electricity is needed to operate the samplers.
The ET may, depending on site conditions and monitoring results, decide whether additional monitoring locations should be included or any monitoring locations could be removed / relocated during any stage of the construction phase.
10.3.1.6 Baseline Monitoring
The ET should carry out baseline monitoring at least 14 consecutive days before commencement of construction work to obtain daily ambient 24-hour TSP samples. The selected baseline monitoring stations should reflect baseline conditions at the stations. One-hour sampling should also be done at least three times per day when the highest dust impacts are expected. The baseline monitoring will provide data for the determination of the appropriate Action Levels with the Limit Levels set against statutory or otherwise agreed limits. General meteorological conditions (wind speed, wind direction and precipitation) and notes regarding any significant adjacent dust producing sources should also be recorded throughout the baseline monitoring period.
During the baseline monitoring, there should not be any construction or dust generating activities in the vicinity of the monitoring stations. Before commencing baseline monitoring, the ET should inform the IEC of the baseline monitoring programme such that IEC can conduct on-site audit to ensure accuracy of the baseline monitoring results.
In case the baseline monitoring cannot be carried out at the designated monitoring locations during the baseline monitoring period, the ET leader should carry out the monitoring at alternative locations that can effectively represent the baseline conditions at the impact monitoring locations. The alternative baseline monitoring locations should be approved by the WKCDA and agreed with the IEC.
In exceptional cases, when insufficient baseline monitoring data or questionable results are obtained, the ET should liaise with the IEC and EPD to agree on an appropriate set of data to be used as a baseline reference and submit to WKCDA for approval. If the ET considers that significant changes in the ambient conditions have arisen, a repeat of the baseline monitoring may be carried out to update the baseline levels and air quality criteria, after consultation and agreement with WKCDA, the IEC and the EPD.
Ambient conditions may vary seasonally and should be reviewed once every six months. When the ambient conditions have changed and a repeat of the baseline monitoring is required to be carried out for obtaining the 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 change in ambient conditions be determined, the baseline levels and, in turn, the air quality criteria, should be revised. The revised baseline levels and air quality criteria should be agreed with the IEC and EPD.
10.3.1.7 Impact and Compliance Monitoring
The monthly schedule of the compliance and impact monitoring programme should be drawn up by the ET one month prior to the commencement of the scheduled construction period
The ET should carry out impact monitoring at all the proposed monitoring stations, except AM5, throughout the entire construction work period. The impact monitoring at AM5 will be started after completion of the XRL project. For regular impact monitoring, the sampling frequency of at least once in every six days, should be strictly observed at all the monitoring stations for 24-hour TSP monitoring. For one-hour TSP monitoring, the sampling frequency of at least three times in every six days should be undertaken when the highest dust impact occurs. Before commencing baseline monitoring, the ET should inform the IEC of the impact monitoring programme. The IEC can carry out on-site audit to ensure accuracy of the impact monitoring results.
The specific time to start and stop the 24-hour TSP monitoring should be clearly defined for each monitoring 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, should be conducted within 24 hours after the result is obtained. This additional monitoring should be continued until the excessive dust emission or the deterioration in air quality is rectified and agreed with WKCDA and the IEC.
10.3.1.8 Audit Requirements
Audit of the TSP levels should be carried out by the ET to ensure that any deteriorating air quality could be readily detected and timely action taken to rectify the situation.
10.3.1.9 Event and Action Plan for Air Quality
Baseline monitoring results form the basis for determining the air quality criteria for the impact monitoring. The ET should compare the impact monitoring results with air quality criteria set up for 24-hour TSP and one-hour TSP level. Air quality criteria which name Action and Limit (AL) Levels to be used are shown in Table 10.2, AL are to be agreed between the ET, IEC and WKCDA prior to air monitoring commencement. Event and Action Plan (Table 10.3) list the action should be carried out when non-compliance of the air quality criteria occurs.
Table 10.2: Typical Action and Limit Level for Air Quality
Parameter |
Action Level |
Limit Level |
24-hr TSP Level in μg/m3 |
For baseline level ≤ 200 μg/m³,
Action level = (130% of baseline level + Limit level)/2 For baseline level > 200 μg/m³,
Action level = Limit Level |
260 |
1-hr TSP Level in μg/m3 |
For baseline level ≤ 384 μg/m³,
Action level = (130% of baseline level + Limit level)/2 For baseline level > 384 μg/m³,
Action level = Limit Level |
500 |
Table 10.3: Typical Event and Action Plan for Air Quality
Event |
ET |
IEC |
WKCDA |
Contractor |
Action Level |
|
|||
1. Exceedance for one sample |
1. Identify source, investigate the causes of exceedance
and propose remedial measures; 2. Inform IEC and WKCDA; 3. Repeat measurement to confirm finding; 4. Increase monitoring frequency to daily. |
1. Check monitoring data submitted by ET; 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 source; 2. Inform IEC and WKCDA; 3. Advise the WKCDA on the effectiveness of the proposed remedial
measures; 4. Repeat measurements to confirm findings; 5. Increase monitoring frequency to daily; 6. Discuss with IEC and Contractor on remedial actions required; 7. If exceedance continues, arrange meeting
with IEC and WKCDA; 8. If exceedance stops, cease additional
monitoring. |
1. Check monitoring data submitted by ET; 2. Check Contractor’s working method; 3. Discuss with ET and Contractor on possible remedial measures; 4. Advise the ET on the effectiveness of the proposed remedial
measures; 5. Monitor the implementation of remedial measures. |
1. Confirm receipt of notification of failure in writing; 2. Notify Contractor; 3. Ensure remedial measures properly implemented. |
1. Submit proposals for remedial to WKCDA within three working days of
notification; 2. Implement the agreed proposals; 3. Amend proposal if appropriate. |
Limit Level |
|
|||
1. Exceedance for one sample |
1. Identify source, investigate the causes of exceedance
and propose remedial measures; 2. Inform WKCDA, Contractor and EPD; 3. Repeat measurement to confirm finding; 4. Increase monitoring frequency to daily; 5. Assess effectiveness of Contractor’s remedial actions and keep IEC,
EPD and WKCDA informed of the results. |
1. Check monitoring data submitted by ET; 2. Check Contractor’s working method; 3. Discuss with ET and Contractor on possible remedial measures; 4. Advise the WKCDA on the effectiveness of the proposed remedial
measures; 5. Monitor the implementation of remedial measures. |
1. Confirm receipt of notification of failure in writing; 2. Notify Contractor; 3. Ensure remedial measures properly implemented. |
1. Take immediate action to avoid further exceedance; 2. Submit proposals for remedial actions to IEC within three working
days of notification; 3. Implement the agreed proposals; 4. Amend proposal if appropriate. |
2. Exceedance for two or more consecutive
samples |
1. Notify IEC, WKCDA, Contractor and EPD; 2. Identify source; 3. Repeat measurement to confirm findings; 4. Increase monitoring frequency to daily; 5. Carry out analysis of Contractor’s working procedures to determine
possible mitigation to be implemented; 6. Arrange meeting with IEC and WKCDA to discuss the remedial actions
to be taken; 7. Assess effectiveness of Contractor’s remedial actions and keep IEC,
EPD and WKCDA informed of the results; 8. If exceedance stops, cease additional
monitoring. |
1. Check monitoring data submitted by ET; 2. Check Contractor’s working method; 3. Discuss amongst WKCDA, ET, and Contractor on the potential remedial
actions; 4. Review Contractor’s remedial actions whenever necessary to assure
their effectiveness and advise the WKCDA accordingly; 5. Monitor the implementation of remedial measures. |
1. Confirm receipt of notification of failure in writing; 2. Notify Contractor; 3. In consolidation with the IEC, agree with the Contractor on the
remedial measures to be implemented; 4. Ensure remedial measures properly implemented; 5. If exceedance continues, consider what
portion of the work is responsible and instruct the Contractor to stop that portion
of work until the exceedance is abated. |
1. Take immediate action to avoid further exceedance; 2. Submit proposals for remedial actions to IEC within three working
days of notification; 3. Implement the agreed proposals; 4. Resubmit proposals if problem still not under control; 5. Stop the relevant portion of works as determined by the WKCDA until
the exceedance is abated. |
10.3.1.10 Mitigation Measures
Appropriate dust suppression measures should be adopted as required under the relevant requirements stipulated in the Air Pollution Control (Construction Dust) Regulation and EPD’s Guidance Note on the Best Practicable Means for Cement Works (Concrete Batching Plant) BPM 3/2(93) as well as the good practices for dust control should be implemented to reduce the dust impact. A control programme can be instigated to monitor the construction process in order to enforce dust controls and modify methods of works where feasible to reduce the dust emission down to acceptable levels. The implementation schedule of recommended air quality mitigation measures is presented in Appendix D.
10.3.2 Operational Air Quality Monitoring
With the full implementation of the recommended mitigation measures during operation phase, no residual impacts due to vehicle and marine emissions are anticipated. Operational phase air quality monitoring is not considered necessary.
10.4.1 Construction Airborne Noise Monitoring
10.4.1.1 Monitoring Requirements
The construction noise level should be
measured in terms of the A-weighted equivalent continuous sound pressure level
(Leq). Leq (30 minutes) should
be used as the monitoring parameter between 0700 and 1900 hours on normal
weekdays. For all other time periods, Leq (5 minutes)
should be employed for comparison with the Noise Control Ordinance (NCO)
criteria.
Supplementary information for data auditing,
statistical results such as L10 and L90 should also be obtained for reference.
10.4.1.2 Monitoring Equipment
As referred to in the Technical Memorandum
(TM) issued under the NCO, sound level meters in compliance with the
International Electrotechnical Commission
Publications 651:1979 (Type 1) and 804:1985 (Type 1) specifications should be
used for carrying out the noise monitoring. Immediately prior to and following
each noise measurement the accuracy of the sound level meter should be checked
using an acoustic calibrator generating a known sound pressure level at a known
frequency. Measurements may be accepted
as valid only if the calibration level from before and after the noise
measurement agree to within 1.0 dB.
Noise measurements should not be made in
fog, rain, wind with a steady speed exceeding 5 m/s or wind with gusts
exceeding 10 m/s. The wind speed should be checked with a portable wind speed
meter capable of measuring the wind speed in m/s.
The ET is responsible for the provision of
the monitoring equipment. He should ensure that sufficient noise measuring
equipment and associated instrumentation are available for carrying out the
baseline monitoring, regular impact monitoring and ad hoc monitoring. All the
equipment and associated instrumentation should be clearly labelled.
A sample data record sheet is shown in Appendix
B for
reference.
10.4.1.3 Monitoring Locations
The noise
monitoring locations (refer to Figure 10.3)
are summarised in Table
10.4. The status and locations of noise sensitive receivers may change
after issuing this manual. If such cases
exist, the ET should propose updated monitoring locations and seek agreement
from EPD, the WKCDA
and the IEC before baseline monitoring commences.
Table 10.4: Construction Noise Monitoring Stations for Underpass Roads
ID |
ID adopted in Construction Noise Assessment |
Description |
NM1 |
HT1 |
The Harbourside Tower 1 |
NM2 |
AST |
The Arch - Sun Tower |
NM3 |
VT1 |
The Victoria Towers - Tower 1 |
NM4 |
CRGPS |
Canton Road Government Primary School |
NM5 |
RD |
Development next to Austin Station (Monitoring to start after completion of development in 2015, subject to the construction programme of
the Project) |
When alternative monitoring locations are
proposed, the monitoring locations should be chosen based on the following
criteria:
¡ monitoring at sensitive receivers close to the major site activities which are likely to have noise impacts;
¡ monitoring at the noise sensitive receivers as defined in the Technical Memorandum; and
¡ assurance of minimal disturbance to the occupants during monitoring.
The monitoring station should normally be at
a point 1 m from the exterior of the sensitive receiver building facade and be
at a position 1.2 m above the ground. If there is problem with access to the
normal monitoring position, an alternative position may be chosen, and a correction
to the measurements should be made. For reference, a correction of +3 dB(A) should
be made to the free field measurements. The ET should agree with the IEC on the
monitoring position and the corrections adopted. Once the positions for the
monitoring stations are chosen, the baseline monitoring and the impact
monitoring should be carried out at the same positions.
10.4.1.4 Baseline Monitoring
The ET should carry out baseline noise
monitoring prior to the commencement of the construction works. The baseline monitoring
should be carried out daily for a period of at least two weeks. Before
commencing the baseline monitoring, the ET should develop and submit to the IEC
the baseline monitoring programme such that the IEC can conduct on-site audit
to check accuracy of the baseline monitoring results.
There should not be any construction
activities in the vicinity of the stations during the baseline monitoring.
In exceptional cases, when insufficient baseline monitoring data or questionable results are obtained, the ET Leader should liaise with the WKCDA, EPD and IEC to agree on an appropriate set of data to be used as a baseline reference and submit to the WKCDA and IEC for agreement and EPD for approval.
10.4.1.5 Impact Monitoring
Noise monitoring should be carried out at all
the designated monitoring stations, except NM5, throughout the entire
construction work period. The impact monitoring at NM5 will be started after
completion of the XRL project. The monitoring frequency should depend on the
scale of the construction activities. The following is an initial guide on the
regular monitoring frequency for each station on a weekly basis when noise
generating activities are underway:
¡ one set of measurements between 0700 and 1900 hours on normal weekdays
If construction works are extended to
include works during the hours of 1900 – 0700 as well as public holidays and
Sundays, additional weekly impact monitoring should be carried out during
respective restricted hours periods. Applicable permits under NCO should also
be obtained by the Contractor.
If a school exists near the construction
activity, noise monitoring should be carried out at the monitoring stations for
the schools during the school examination periods. The ET Leader should liaise
with the school’s personnel and the Examination Authority to ascertain the
exact dates and times of all examination periods during the course of the
contract.
In case of non-compliance with the construction noise criteria, more frequent monitoring, as specified in the Action Plan in Table 10.6, should be carried out. This additional monitoring should be continued until the recorded noise levels are rectified or demonstrated to be unrelated to the construction activities.
10.4.1.6 Event and Action Plan
The Action and Limit (AL) Levels for construction noise are defined in Table 10.5. Should non-compliance of the criteria occur, action in accordance with the Event and Action Plan in Table 10.6 should be carried out.
Table 10.5: Action and Limit Level for Construction Noise
Time Period |
Action |
Limit |
0700-1900 hrs on
normal weekdays |
When one valid documented complaint is
received. |
75* dB(A) |
Note: *70 dB(A) for
schools and 65 dB(A) during school examination periods.
If
works are to be carried out during restricted hours, the conditions stipulated
in the Construction Noise Permit (CNP) issued by the Noise Control Authority
have to be followed.
Table 10.6: Event and Action Plan for Construction Noise
Event |
Action |
|||
ET |
IEC |
WKCDA |
Contractor |
|
Action Level |
1. Notify WKCDA, IEC and Contractor; 2.
Carry out investigation; 3. Report the results of investigation
to the IEC, WKCDA and Contractor; 4. Discuss with the IEC and Contractor
on remedial measures required; 5. Increase monitoring frequency to
check mitigation effectiveness. |
1. Review the investigation results
submitted by the ET; 2. Review the proposed remedial
measures by the Contractor and advise the WKCDA accordingly; 3. Advise the WKCDA on the
effectiveness of the proposed remedial measures. |
1. Confirm receipt of notification of
failure in writing; 2. Notify Contractor; 3. In consolidation with the IEC, agree
with the Contractor on the remedial measures to be implemented; 4. Supervise the implementation of
remedial measures. |
1. Submit noise mitigation proposals to
IEC and WKCDA; 2. Implement noise mitigation
proposals. |
Limit Level |
1. Inform IEC, WKCDA, Contractor and
EPD; 2. Repeat measurements to confirm
findings; 3. Increase monitoring frequency; 4. Identify source and investigate the
cause of exceedance; 5. Carry out analysis of Contractor’s
working procedures; 6. Discuss with the IEC, Contractor and
WKCDA on remedial measures required; 7. Assess effectiveness of Contractor’s
remedial actions and keep IEC, EPD and WKCDA informed of the results; 8. If exceedance
stops, cease additional monitoring. |
1. Discuss amongst WKCDA, ET, and
Contractor on the potential remedial actions; 2. Review Contractor’s remedial actions
whenever necessary to assure their effectiveness and advise the WKCDA
accordingly. |
1. Confirm receipt of notification of
failure in writing; 2. Notify Contractor; 3. In consolidation with the IEC, agree
with the Contractor on the remedial measures to be implemented; 4. Supervise the implementation of
remedial measures; 5. If exceedance
continues, consider stopping the Contractor to continue working on that
portion of work which causes the exceedance until
the exceedance is abated. |
1. Take immediate action to avoid
further exceedance; 2. Submit proposals for remedial
actions to IEC and WKCDA within 3 working days of notification; 3. Implement the agreed proposals; 4. Submit further proposal if problem still
not under control; 5. Stop the relevant portion of works
as instructed by the WKCDA until the exceedance is
abated. |
10.4.1.7 Mitigation Measures
Recommended construction noise control and mitigation measures are proposed in the EIA report. The Contractor should be responsible for the design and implementation of these measures under the supervision of the ER and monitored by the ET. The implementation schedule of the recommended noise mitigation measures is presented in Appendix D.
10.4.2 Operational Noise Monitoring
10.4.2.1 Traffic Noise Monitoring
With implementation of the proposed mitigation measures, no adverse traffic noise impacts are anticipated from the operation of the Project, hence no environmental monitoring and audit is proposed.
10.4.2.2 Fixed Plant Noise Monitoring
Maximum
Permissible Sound Power Levels of Fixed Plant
The maximum permissible sound power levels of the identified fixed
noise sources of the Project were predicted in the EIA report. The
specified sound power levels should be implemented and refined by the
Contractor as appropriate to ensure that the noise impact associated with the
fixed plant operations would comply with the noise standards stipulated in the
EIAO-TM and NCO.
Commissioning
Test
Prior to the operation of the Project, the Contractor should
conduct noise commissioning tests for all major fixed noise sources within
WKCD. The test should be carried out by a qualified person possessing at
least 7 years of noise control experience and a corporate membership of Hong
Kong Institute of Acoustics or equivalent. The
noise commissioning test report should be submitted to the ET Leader,IEC and WKCDA for
approval.
10.4.2.3 Mitigation Measures
The relevant noise mitigation measures have been recommended in the EIA Report. The implementation schedule of the mitigation measures are given in Appendix D.
10.5.1 Construction Phase Monitoring
Adverse water quality impact was not
predicted during the construction phase of the proposed underpass road.
Nevertheless, appropriate mitigation measures are recommended to minimize
potential water quality impacts.
Regular audit of
the implementation of the recommended mitigation measures during the
construction phase at the work areas should also be undertaken to ensure the
recommended mitigation measures are properly implemented. Proposed mitigation measures for
containing and minimizing water quality impacts are listed in the implementation
schedule given in Appendix D.
10.5.2 Operation Phase Monitoring
With the implementation of the recommended
mitigation measures during operational phase, no adverse water quality impact
is anticipated. Operational phase water quality monitoring is therefore not
considered necessary.
10.6 Sewerage and Sewage Treatment Implication
The underpass road is part of a network of infrastructure within the WKCD development to meet the connectivity and accessibility requirements of the WKCD. This underpass roads do not require or generate any sewage or sewerage related facilities. Consequently, there are no sewerage and sewage treatment implications associated with the underpass road. Therefore, environmental monitoring and audit activities are not required.
10.7 Waste Management Implications
10.7.1 Construction Phase Monitoring
10.7.1.1
Monitoring Requirements
The Contractor is responsible for waste management activities during the construction phase. The Contractor must ensure that all wastes produced during the construction phase are handled, stored and disposed of in accordance with EPD’s regulations and requirements and in line with good waste management practices. A Waste Management Plan should be prepared and implemented in accordance with ETWB TC (W) No. 19/2005 Environmental Management on Construction Site.
During
construction phase, regular site inspection (at least once per week) as part of
the EM&A procedures should be carried out to determine if wastes are being
managed in accordance with approved procedures and the Waste Management Plan. Waste materials generated during
the construction works, such as Construction and Demolition (C&D) material,
general refuse and chemical wastes, are recommended to be monitored on a weekly
basis to ensure that proper storage, transportation and disposal practices are
being implemented. This monitoring of waste management practices will ensure
that these solid and liquid wastes are not disposed into the nearby harbour
waters. The Contractor would be responsible for the implementation of any
mitigation measures to minimise waste or redress problems arising from the
waste materials.
10.7.2 Audit Requirements
It is recommended that the waste generated
during the construction activities should be audited periodically (at least once per week) to determine if wastes are being managed in accordance with approved
procedures and the site Waste Management Plan. The audits should look at all
aspects of waste management including waste generation, storage, transport and
disposal. An appropriate audit programme would be to undertake a first audit
near the commencement of the construction works, and then to audit periodically
thereafter. In addition, the routine site inspections should check the implementation
of the recommended good site practices and other waste management mitigation
measures.
A summary of all key types of waste arising and
the reuse and disposal methods proposed during the construction phase of the
Project is presented in Table
10.7.
10.7.3 Mitigation Measures
The implementation schedule of the
recommended waste management mitigation measures is presented in Appendix D.
10.7.4 Operation Phase Monitoring
During operation phase, the underpass roads will not involve any waste generating activities. Therefore, no adverse waste management impact is anticipated during operation phase and hence, no specific waste monitoring is required.
Table 10.7: Summary of Waste Arising during Construction Phase
Waste Type |
Key Sources of Waste Generation |
Timing of Waste Generation |
Estimated Quantity of Waste Generation |
Waste Reuse or Disposal |
Waste Handling |
Inert C&D Materials |
Majority from excavation work for the WKCD (including the underpass
road and the flyover) basement; and minority from
construction of superstructures and substructures (Note: Excavation of marine sediments is not anticipated) |
Tentatively from 2013 to 2017 |
About 1,882,830 m3 in total |
About 147,740 m3 to be reused on-site as fill materials for the Park About 905,000 m3 to be reused by two potential
projects, viz., HZMB project and 3rd runway project. Remaining quantity of about 831,090 m3 to be disposed of at the Government’s PFRFs for beneficial use by other
projects in Hong Kong (subject to endorsement by the relevant authorities
including PFC of CEDD and EPD) (Note: During the detailed design stage, further alternative disposal arrangement, e.g., other potential projects
that could receive inert C&D materials from the WKCD Project, shall be
continuously explored and identified. If no potential projects could receive
the surplus inert C&D materials, the remaining inert C&D materials could
be disposed of at the Government's Public Fill Reception Facilities (PFRFs)
for beneficial use by any other projects in Hong Kong. No construction work is allowed to proceed until the
issues on management of C&D materials have been resolved and all relevant
arrangements have been endorsed by the relevant authorities (i.e. CEDD and
EPD).) |
Segregate inert C&D material to avoid contamination from other
waste arising |
C&D Materials from Site Clearance |
General site clearance |
Tentatively from 2013 to 2017 |
About 108,300 m3 in total |
Any inert materials segregated from the
C&D materials to be reused on-site as far as practicable or disposed of
at the Government’s PFRFs
for beneficial use by other projects in Hong Kong Non-inert materials segregated from the
C&D materials to be disposed of at the designated landfill sites |
Segregate on site the C&D materials into inert and non-inert
materials |
General Refuse |
Waste paper, discarded containers, etc. generated from the site
workforce |
Tentatively from 2013 to 2017 |
0.65 kg per worker per day, the maximum
daily arising of general refuse during the construction period would be
approximately 975 kg |
Refuse station for compaction and
containerisation and then to landfill for disposal |
Provide on-site refuse collection points |
Chemical Waste |
Used solvents, contaminated rags, waste lubricating oil, etc., from
maintenance and servicing of construction plant and equipment |
Tentatively from 2013 to 2017 |
Few cubic metres per month (preliminary estimate) |
Disposal of at the Chemical Waste Treatment Centre or other licensed recycling facilities
|
Stored on-site by suitably designed containers for off-site disposal
or recycling |
10.8.1 Construction Phase Monitoring
In view of the desktop review results and the site inspection findings, bulk excavation of soil for land remediation is not expected at this stage. As such, any environmental monitoring in relation to land remediation is not required, unless a need for land remediation is identified during the future site investigation for the Tsim Sha Tsui Fire Station area. Since the TST Fire Station will remain in operation during the period between now and 2020, and leakage or spillage from the underground fuel oil tanks or pipes, or during refilling might occur. Therefore, further site visit and site investigation/laboratory chemical analysis are suggested to be conducted after land acquisition so that the investigation results will be up to date.
During construction phase, Environmental
Monitoring and Audit (EM&A) should be carried out in the form of regular
site inspection. All related procedures and facilities for handling or storage
of chemicals and chemical wastes should be audited regularly to make sure they
are in order and intact and reported in the EM&A reports as such.
10.8.2 Operation Phase Monitoring
During operation phase, the underpass road will be used as an access for vehicles moving to and from the WKCD site and its associated facilities. There will be no industrial activities taking place at the Project area during operation phase. Therefore, no contaminated land issue is anticipated and hence, no specific monitoring is required.
Since no significant ecological impact will
arise from the proposed underpass roads, no specific ecological monitoring programme
is thus required for the underpass roads.
10.10 Landscape and Visual Impact
In addition to ensuring the effective implementation of mitigation measures recommended in Section 14.10 of the EIA report and compliance with relevant environmental standards, this section proposes systematic procedures for monitoring, auditing and minimizing the environmental impacts associated with the construction works and operation.
The baseline monitoring aims to establish a baseline that collects information on the current site characteristics prior to the development in order to:
¡ Make comparisons between different pre-development and post development;
¡ Detect changes; and
¡ Make comparisons against a standard.
Baseline studies
on landscape and visual amenity of the site and its surroundings have been
provided in Section 14.10.4 of the EIA report which documents
the existing environmental conditions prior to the development. A one-off
survey shall be undertaken to update and record the baseline conditions with
photographs prior to the commencement of construction works.
10.10.3.1
Mitigation Measures for Construction Phase Impacts
Mitigation measures are proposed in the EIA
report to minimize the landscape and visual impacts during the construction
phase. Tables 10.8 and 10.9 summarize these proposed mitigation
measures for landscape and visual impacts respectively.
Table 10.8: Landscape mitigation measures during construction phase
Ref. No. |
Mitigation Measures during
Construction Phase |
Funding Agency |
Implementation Agency |
Management/ Maintenance Agency |
CM1 |
Trees should be retained in situ on site as
far as possible. Should tree removal be unavoidable due to construction
impacts, trees will be transplanted or felled with reference to the stated
criteria in the Tree Removal Applications to be submitted to relevant
government departments for approval in accordance to ETWB TCW No. 29/2004 and
3/2006. |
WKCDA -for works area within WKCD site CEDD - for works area of external connections Private Developer -for works area within private
land sale lots |
Contractor |
Appointed landscape contractor |
CM2 |
Compensatory tree planting shall be
incorporated to the proposed project and maximize the
new tree, shrubs and other vegetation planting to compensate tree felled and
vegetation removed. Also, implementation of
compensatory planting should be of a ratio not less than 1:1 in terms of
quality and quantity within the site. |
Same as above |
Contractor |
Appointed landscape contractor |
CM3 |
Buffer trees for screening purposes to soften
the hard architectural and engineering structures and facilities. |
Same as above |
Contractor |
WKCDA or appointed
landscape contractor |
CM4 |
Softscape
treatments such as vertical green wall panel /planting of climbing and/or
weeping plants, etc, to maximize the green coverage
and soften the hard architectural and engineering
structures and facilities. |
Same as above |
Detailed Design
Consultant/ Contractor |
WKCDA or appointed
landscape contractor |
CM5 |
Roof
greening by means of intensive and extensive green roof to maximize the green coverage and improve aesthetic
appeal and visual quality of the building/structure. |
Same as above |
Detailed Design
Consultant/ Contractor |
WKCDA or appointed
landscape contractor |
CM6 |
Sensitive streetscape design should
be incorporated along all new roads and streets. |
Same as above |
Detailed Design
Consultant/ Contractor |
WKCDA or appointed
landscape contractor |
CM7 |
Structure, ornamental planting shall
be provided along amenity strips to enhance the landscape quality. |
Same as above |
Contractor |
WKCDA or appointed
landscape contractor |
CM8 |
Landscape design shall be incorporated to architectural and engineering structures in order to provide aesthetically pleasing designs. |
Same as above |
Detailed Design
Consultant / Contractor |
WKCDA or appointed
landscape contractor |
Table 10.9: Visual mitigation measures during construction phase
|
Mitigation Measures |
Target VSRs |
Funding Agency |
Implementation Agency |
Management/ Maintenance
Agency |
MMC1 |
Use of decorative screen hoarding/ boards |
All of the VSRs |
WKCDA – for works area within WKCD site CEDD – for works area of external
connection |
Contractor |
Contractor |
MMC2 |
During the transition period, the temporary
ventilation shafts for the basement associated with the underpass road will adopt
light colour |
All of the VSRs |
WKCDA |
Design Architect / Contractor |
WKCDA |
MMC3 |
The early introduction of landscape
treatments |
All of the VSRs |
WKCDA |
Contractor |
Contractor |
MMC4 |
The temporary landscaped areas will help achieve the
visual balance |
All of the VSRs |
WKCDA |
Contractor |
WKCDA |
MMC5 |
Control of night time lighting such as avoidance of lighting
from spilling onto nearby residential developments |
Residential VSR (ie.
VSR 3) |
WKCDA – for works area within WKCD site |
Contractor |
Contractor |
10.10.3.2
Mitigation Measures for Operation Phase Impacts
Mitigation measures to minimize the landscape
and visual impacts during the operation phase are proposed in the EIA report. Tables 10.10 and
10.11
summarize these proposed mitigation measures for landscape and visual impacts
respectively.
Table 10.10: Landscape mitigation measures during operation phase
Ref. No. |
Mitigation Measures during
Operation Phase |
Funding Agency |
Implementation Agency |
Management/ Maintenance
Agency |
OM1 |
Provide proper planting maintenance on the
new planting areas to enhance the aesthetic design degree |
WKCDA -for work area within WKCD site CEDD- for work areas of external connections Private Developer
-for works areas within private land sale lots |
Contractor |
LCSD -for public roadside and pedestrian
footbridge planting1 Private Developers -for all landscaping within
the private land sale lots WKCDA -for all other areas within WKCD |
OM2 |
Provision
of open space in various forms and at different levels on or above ground,
including park, waterfront promenade, piazzas and terrace garden and associated
green connections for public enjoyment. |
WKCDA |
Detailed Design Consultant / Contractor |
WKCDA or appointed
landscape contractor |
1 in accordance
with ETWB No. 2/2004
Table 10.11: Visual mitigation measures during operation phase
|
Mitigation Measures |
Target VSRs |
Funding Agency |
Implementation Agency |
Management/ Maintenance
Agency |
MMO1 |
Adoption of light
colour for the temporary ventilation shafts associated with the underpass
road during operation phase (day 1) |
All of the VSRs |
WKCDA |
Design Architect/ Contractor |
WKCDA/ developer of Individual Buildings |
MMO2 |
The temporary landscape areas will help achieve the
visual balance during operation phase (Day 1) |
All of the VSRs |
WKCDA |
Contractor |
WKCDA |
MMO3 |
Use of planter and
other softscape treatments during operation phase (Day 1) |
All of the VSRs |
WKCDA |
Contractor |
Contractor |
MMO4 |
Use of decorative screen hoarding/boards. during operation phase (day 1) |
All of the VSRs |
WKCDA – for works area within WKCD site CEDD – for works area of external
connection |
Contractor |
Contractor |
MMO5 |
Aesthetic design
of roads and roadside planting during
operation phase (year 10) |
VSRs
abutting the entrance of the underground roads VSR 2 (The Elements) and VSR 7 (Austin
Station) |
WKCDA |
Contractor |
Contractor |
MMO6 |
Control of night
time lighting
such as avoidance of lighting from spilling onto nearby residential
developments during operation phase (day 1 and year 10) |
Residential VSR (i.e. VSR 3) |
WKCDA – for works area within WKCD site |
Contractor |
Contractor |
10.10.4 Environmental Monitoring and Audit
Requirements
During the landscape and visual impact monitoring, any changes in relation to the landscape and visual amenity should be monitored with reference to the baseline conditions of the site. In addition, proposed mitigation measures as shown in Tables 10.8 to 10.11 should be checked for proper implementation.
10.10.5
Monitoring
Programs
The proposed monitoring program for landscape and visual impact is detailed in Table 10.12.
Table 10.12: Monitoring Program for Landscape and Visual Impact
Stage |
Monitoring Task |
Frequency |
Report |
Approval |
Design |
Design check by ET to make sure the design complies with the proposed
mitigation measures in the EIA report. |
Once at completion of Design Stage |
ET to confirm that the design complies with the proposed mitigation
measures in the EIA report. |
WKCDA |
Construction |
Monitor implementation of proposed mitigation measures during the
construction stage. |
Bi-weekly |
ET to report on Contractor’s compliance |
Counter-signed by IEC |
Operation |
Monitor soft landscape works during the 12-month establishment period
after construction completes. |
Monthly |
ET to report on Contractor’s compliance |
Counter-signed by IEC |
10.10.6 Event and Action Plan
In case of non-compliance of landscape and visual impacts, procedures in
accordance with the action plan as shown in Table 10.13 should be followed.
Table 10.13: Event and Action Plan for Landscape and Visual Impact
Event/ Action |
Action |
|||
ET |
IEC |
WKCDA |
Contractor |
|
Design Check |
1. Design check to make sure the design complies with all the proposed
mitigation measures in the EIA report; 2. Prepare and submit report. |
1. Check report submitted by ET; 2. Recommend remedial design if necessary. |
1. Undertake remedial design if necessary. |
|
Non-conformity on
one occasion |
1. Identify source of non-conformity; 2. Report to IEC and WKCDA; 3. Discuss remedial actions with IEC,
WKCDA and Contractor; 4. Monitor remedial actions until
rectification has been completed. |
1. Check and verify source of
non-conformity; 2. Discuss remedial actions with ET and
Contractor; 3. Advise WKCDA on effectiveness of proposed
remedial actions; 4. Check implementation of remedial
actions. |
1. Notify Contractor; 2. Ensure remedial actions are properly
implemented. |
1. Amend working method as necessary; 2. Rectify damage and undertake
necessary replacement and remedial actions. |
Repeated non-conformity |
1. Identify source of non-conformity; 2. Report to IEC and WKCDA; 3. Increase monitoring frequency; 4. Discuss remedial actions with IEC,
WKCDA and Contractor; 5. Monitor remedial actions until
rectification has been completed; 6. If non-conformity rectified, reduce
monitoring frequency back to normal. |
1. Check and verify source of
non-conformity; 2. Check Contractor’s working method; 3. Discuss remedial actions with ET and
Contractor; 4. Advise WKCDA on effectiveness of
proposed remedial actions; 5. Supervise implementation of remedial
actions. |
1. Notify Contractor; 2. Ensure remedial actions are properly
implemented. |
1. Amend working method as necessary; 2. Rectify damage and undertake
necessary replacement and remedial actions. |
11.1 Introduction
This section details the specific EM&A requirements for Schedule 2 Designated Project “a flyover more than 100m in length between abutments over the Western Harbour Crossing toll plaza (Item A.8, Part I, Schedule 2)”. The requirements, methodology, equipment, monitoring locations, criteria and protocols for the monitoring and audit for this Designated Project are presented. The Project organisation, environmental auditing and reporting requirements are stipulated in Chapters 1, 12 & 13 of this Manual respectively.
11.2.1 Existing Site Conditions
The site for the Austin Road flyover is located outside the proposed WKCD site as shown in Figure 11.1. The site is currently occupied mainly by the Western Harbour Crossing (WHC) and its toll plaza, and part of the existing West Kowloon Waterfront Promenade on either side of the WHC.
11.2.2 Project Components
This Schedule 2 Project is for extension of
the existing elevated deck at the junction of Austin Road West / Nga Cheung Road to the New Yau Ma
Tei Public Cargo Working Area (NYMTPCWA) via a
flyover above the WHC toll plaza at +14.0mPD. Its aim is to provide a second
access for the Mega Performance Venue and Exhibition Centre, and flexibility
for event management. The flyover will also enhance the accessibility and
robustness of the arrangements including post event traffic dispersal for serving
the MPV and second emergency vehicle route. The flyover starts at the elevated junction
of Austin Road West / Nga Cheung Road, spanning
across the WHC toll plaza westward, turns southward and lands at the northwest
corner of WKCD area adjacent to the NYMTPCWA area. This will provide an
alternative return loop for the road access running along the outside perimeter
of the portal of the WHC which connects with the roundabout at the junction of Nga Cheung Road and Austin Road West at ground level.
The proposed flyover will be a single
two-lane two-way elevated highways structure supported by four piers (which had
already been constructed under two previous projects as explained in Section
15.2.4 of the EIA Report); and its approach ramps span between piers and
conventional abutments. The abutments will be located at the two ends of the
bridge deck. The flyover is about 200m long and 7.3m width with 1m marginal
strip at each side.
A new approach ramp adjacent to the existing
WHC administration building is also proposed to connect with the elevated
roundabout junction of Austin Road West / Nga Cheung
Road. The new ramp will be constructed from the elevated roundabout junction to
join at +5.0mPD of the new at-grade carriageway and the carriageway at WKCD Basement
B1 level. Additional piers and abutments will be constructed for the ramps of
the flyover. Existing facilities on top of the WHC toll plaza which conflicts
with the flyover structures will need to be rearranged, and utilities at the
piers and abutments of the flyover will also need to be diverted.
11.2.3 Tentative Construction Programme
The flyover is a supplementary component of the WKCD development project, proposed mainly to support certain WKCD facilities. Implementation of this Schedule 2 Project is subject to factors such as funding and associated arrangements, as well as interface with and restrictions imposed by the operators of the existing WHC tunnel entrance and toll plaza. Despite such factors and restrictions, it is tentatively scheduled to complete construction of this flyover by 2017 (see Appendix A).
11.3.1 Construction Air Quality Monitoring
11.3.1.1 General
It is proposed to carry out environmental monitoring and audit during the construction phase of the proposed Austin Road flyover to check and ensure compliance with the relevant air quality standards by effective implementation of the recommended construction dust mitigation measures. Potential air quality impact arising from the construction works would mainly be due to excavation, foundation works, site formation, movement of mobile plant and vehicles on haul roads, as well as the operation of a concrete batching plant and barging facilities. During operation phase, no environmental monitoring and audit is considered necessary.
Although there are some exceedances of AQOs because of air quality impacts due to vehicle emissions these are considered to be adequately dealt with through the proposed mitigation measures. No significant residual operational impacts are anticipated.
The objectives of the dust monitoring are:
¡ to identify the extent of dust impact during construction phase on sensitive receivers;
¡ to audit the compliance of the Contractor with regard to dust control, contract conditions and the relevant dust impact criteria;
¡ to determine the effectiveness of mitigation measures to control fugitive dust emission from activities during the construction phase;
¡ to recommend further mitigation measures if found to be necessary, and;
¡ to comply with Action and Limit Levels for air quality as defined in this Manual.
Details of the environmental monitoring and audit requirements during construction phase are presented below.
11.3.1.2 Air Quality Parameters
Monitoring and audit of the Total Suspended Particulate (TSP) levels during the construction phase should be carried out by the Environmental Team (ET) to ensure that any deteriorating air quality could be readily detected and timely actions taken to rectify the situation.
The TSP levels should be measured by following the standard method as set out in High Volume Method for Total Suspended Particulates, Part 50 Chapter 1 Appendix B, Title 40 of the Code of Federal Regulations of the USEPA (HVS method).
One-hour and 24-hour TSP levels should be measured to indicate the impacts of construction dust on air quality. Upon approval of the IEC, one-hour TSP levels can be measured by direct reading methods which are capable of producing comparable results as that by the HVS method, to indicate short event impacts.
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, other special phenomena and work progress of the concerned project area, etc should be recorded. A sample data record sheet is shown in Appendix B. The ET may develop a project specific record sheet to suit this EM&A programme.
11.3.1.3 Monitoring Equipment
High Volume Sampler (HVS) in compliance with the following specifications should be used for carrying out the one-hour or 24-hour TSP monitoring:
¡ 0.6 - 1.7 m3/min (20 - 60 standard cubic feet per minute) adjustable flow range;
¡ equipped with a timing / control device with +/- 5 minutes accuracy for 24 hours operation;
¡ installed with elapsed-time meter with +/- 2 minutes accuracy for 24 hours operation;
¡ capable of providing a minimum exposed area of 406 cm2 (63 in2);
¡ flow control accuracy: +/- 2.5% deviation over 24-hr sampling period;
¡ incorporated with an electronic mass flow rate controller or other equivalent devices;
¡ equipped with a flow recorder for continuous monitoring;
¡ provided with a peaked roof inlet;
¡ incorporated with a manometer;
¡ able to hold and seal the filter paper to the sampler housing at horizontal position;
¡ easy to change the filter, and;
¡ capable of operating continuously for 24-hour period.
The ET is
responsible for provision of the monitoring equipment. They should ensure that
sufficient numbers of HVSs with an appropriate calibration kit are available
for carrying out the baseline monitoring, regular impact monitoring and ad hoc
monitoring. The HVSs should 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., should be clearly labelled.
Initial
calibration of dust monitoring equipment should be conducted upon installation
and thereafter at bi-monthly intervals. The transfer standard should be
traceable to the internationally recognised primary standard and be calibrated
annually. The concern parties such as Independent Environmental Checker (IEC) should
properly document the calibration data for future reference. All the data
should 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 should
be verified to be constant and be recorded in the data sheet, shown in Appendix
B.
If the ET proposes
to use a direct reading dust meter to measure one-hour TSP levels, sufficient
information should be submitted to the IEC to prove that the instrument is
capable of achieving a comparable result to the HVS. The instrument should also
be calibrated regularly, and the one-hour sampling should be determined
periodically by the HVS to check the validity and accuracy of the results
measured by direct reading method.
Wind data
monitoring equipment should be provided and set up for logging wind speed and
wind direction near the dust monitoring locations. The equipment installation
location should be proposed by the ET and agreed with the IEC. For installation
and operation of wind data monitoring equipment, the following points should be
observed:
¡ the wind sensors should be installed 10 m above ground so that they are clear of obstructions or turbulence caused by buildings;
¡ the wind data should be captured by a data logger. The data should be downloaded for analysis 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 the WKCDA and agreement from the IEC.
11.3.1.4 Laboratory Measurement / Analysis
A clean laboratory with constant temperature
and humidity control, and equipped with necessary measuring and conditioning
instruments to handle the dust samples collected, should be available for
sample analysis, equipment calibration and maintenance. The laboratory should
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 should be approved by the WKCDA and the
measurement procedures should be witnessed by the IEC. Any measurement
performed by the laboratory should be demonstrated to the satisfaction of the
WKCDA and IEC. IEC should regularly audit to the measurement performed by the
laboratory to ensure the accuracy of measurement results. The ET Leader should
provide the WKCDA with one copy of the Title 40 of the Code of Federal
Regulations, Chapter 1 (Part 50), Appendix B for his reference.
Filter paper of size 8" x 10" should
be labelled before sampling. It should be a clean filter paper with no
pinholes, and should be conditioned in a humidity-controlled chamber for over
24-hours and be pre-weighed before use for the sampling.
After sampling, the filter paper loaded with
dust should be kept in a clean and tightly sealed plastic bag. The filter paper
should then be returned to the laboratory for reconditioning in the
humidity-controlled chamber followed by accurate weighing by an electronic
balance with readout down to 0.1 mg. The balance should be regularly calibrated
against a traceable standard.
All collected samples should be kept in good
condition for six months before disposal.
11.3.1.5 Monitoring Location
Two air quality monitoring locations are proposed and summarised in Table 11.1 and shown in Figure 11.2, subject to approval from the premises landlord for dust monitoring equipment installation. The status and locations of dust sensitive receivers may change after issuing this report. If such cases exist, the ET should propose updated monitoring locations and seek agreement from EPD, and agreement from WKCDA and IEC before baseline monitoring commences.
Table 11.1: Construction Air Quality Monitoring Stations for the proposed Austin Road flyover
ID |
Description |
AM1 |
International Commerce Centre |
AM2 |
Parcel 39 (Office + Planned Performance Art Venues within WKCD) (Monitoring to start after
occupation of development in 2017, subject to the construction programme of the Project) |
When alternative monitoring locations are
proposed, the proposed site should, as far as practicable:
¡ be at the site boundary or such locations close to the major dust emission source;
¡ be close to the sensitive receptors, and;
¡ take into account the prevailing meteorological conditions.
Monitoring
equipment must be positioned, sited and orientated properly. The ET should agree with the WKCDA in
consultation with the IEC on the position of the HVS for the installation of
the monitoring equipment. When positioning the samplers, the following points should
be noted:
¡ a horizontal platform with appropriate support to secure the samplers against strong wind should be provided;
¡ no two samplers should be placed less than two meters apart;
¡ the distance between the sampler and an obstacle, such as buildings, must be at least twice the height that the obstacle protrudes above the sampler;
¡ a minimum of two meters of separation from walls, parapets and penthouses is required for rooftop samplers;
¡ a minimum of two meters 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 meters from the dripline;
¡ wire fence or gates used to protect the sampler, should not cause any obstruction during monitoring;
¡ permission must be obtained to set up the samplers and to obtain access to the monitoring stations, and;
¡ a secured supply of electricity is needed to operate the samplers.
The ET may, depending on site conditions and monitoring results, decide whether additional monitoring locations should be included or any monitoring locations could be removed / relocated during any stage of the construction phase.
11.3.1.6 Baseline Monitoring
The ET should carry out baseline monitoring at least 14 consecutive days before commencement of construction work to obtain daily ambient 24-hour TSP samples. The selected baseline monitoring stations should reflect baseline conditions at the stations. One-hour sampling should also be done at least three times per day when the highest dust impacts are expected. The baseline monitoring will provide data for the determination of the appropriate Action Levels with the Limit Levels set against statutory or otherwise agreed limits. General meteorological conditions (wind speed, wind direction and precipitation) and notes regarding any significant adjacent dust producing sources should also be recorded throughout the baseline monitoring period.
During the baseline monitoring, there should not be any construction or dust generating activities in the vicinity of the monitoring stations. Before commencing baseline monitoring, the ET should inform the IEC of the baseline monitoring programme such that IEC can conduct on-site audit to ensure accuracy of the baseline monitoring results.
In case the baseline monitoring cannot be carried out at the designated monitoring locations during the baseline monitoring period, the ET leader should carry out the monitoring at alternative locations that can effectively represent the baseline conditions at the impact monitoring locations. The alternative baseline monitoring locations should be approved by the WKCDA and agreed with the IEC.
In exceptional cases, when insufficient baseline monitoring data or questionable results are obtained, the ET should liaise with the IEC and EPD to agree on an appropriate set of data to be used as a baseline reference and submit to WKCDA for approval. If the ET considers that significant changes in the ambient conditions have arisen, a repeat of the baseline monitoring may be carried out to update the baseline levels and air quality criteria, after consultation and agreement with WKCDA, the IEC and the EPD.
Ambient conditions may vary seasonally and should be reviewed once every six months. When the ambient conditions have changed and a repeat of the baseline monitoring is required to be carried out for obtaining the 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 change in ambient conditions be determined, the baseline levels and, in turn, the air quality criteria, should be revised. The revised baseline levels and air quality criteria should be agreed with the IEC and EPD.
11.3.1.7 Impact and Compliance Monitoring
The monthly schedule of the compliance and impact monitoring programme should be drawn up by the ET one month prior to the commencement of the scheduled construction period
The ET should carry out impact monitoring at all the proposed monitoring stations, except AM2, throughout the entire construction work period. The impact monitoring at AM2 will be started after occupation of the development. For regular impact monitoring, the sampling frequency of at least once in every six days, should be strictly observed at all the monitoring stations for 24-hour TSP monitoring. For one-hour TSP monitoring, the sampling frequency of at least three times in every six days should be undertaken when the highest dust impact occurs. Before commencing baseline monitoring, the ET should inform the IEC of the impact monitoring programme. The IEC can carry out on-site audit to ensure accuracy of the impact monitoring results.
The specific time to start and stop the 24-hour TSP monitoring should be clearly defined for each monitoring 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, should be conducted within 24 hours after the result is obtained. This additional monitoring should be continued until the excessive dust emission or the deterioration in air quality is rectified and agreed with WKCDA and the IEC.
11.3.1.8 Audit Requirements
Audit of the TSP levels should be carried out by the ET to ensure that any deteriorating air quality could be readily detected and timely action taken to rectify the situation.
11.3.1.9 Event and Action Plan for Air Quality
Baseline monitoring results form the basis for determining the air quality criteria for the impact monitoring. The ET should compare the impact monitoring results with air quality criteria set up for 24-hour TSP and one-hour TSP level. Air quality criteria which name Action and Limit (AL) Levels to be used are shown in Table 11.2, AL are to be agreed between the ET, IEC and WKCDA prior to air monitoring commencement. Event and Action Plan (Table 11.3) list the action should be carried out when non-compliance of the air quality criteria occurs.
Table 11.2: Typical Action and Limit Level for Air Quality
Parameter |
Action Level |
Limit Level |
24-hr TSP Level in μg/m3 |
For baseline level ≤ 200 μg/m³,
Action level = (130% of baseline level + Limit level)/2 For baseline level > 200 μg/m³,
Action level = Limit Level |
260 |
1-hr TSP Level in μg/m3 |
For baseline level ≤ 384 μg/m³,
Action level = (130% of baseline level + Limit level)/2 For baseline level > 384 μg/m³,
Action level = Limit Level |
500 |
Table 11.3: Typical Event and Action Plan for Air Quality
Event |
ET |
IEC |
WKCDA |
Contractor |
Action Level |
|
|||
1. Exceedance for one sample |
1. Identify source, investigate the causes of exceedance
and propose remedial measures; 2. Inform IEC and WKCDA; 3. Repeat measurement to confirm finding; 4. Increase monitoring frequency to daily. |
1. Check monitoring data submitted by ET; 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 source; 2. Inform IEC and WKCDA; 3. Advise the WKCDA on the effectiveness of the proposed remedial
measures; 4. Repeat measurements to confirm findings; 5. Increase monitoring frequency to daily; 6. Discuss with IEC and Contractor on remedial actions required; 7. If exceedance continues, arrange meeting
with IEC and WKCDA; 8. If exceedance stops, cease additional
monitoring. |
1. Check monitoring data submitted by ET; 2. Check Contractor’s working method; 3. Discuss with ET and Contractor on possible remedial measures; 4. Advise the ET on the effectiveness of the proposed remedial
measures; 5. Monitor the implementation of remedial measures. |
1. Confirm receipt of notification of failure in writing; 2. Notify Contractor; 3. Ensure remedial measures properly implemented. |
1. Submit proposals for remedial to WKCDA within three working days of
notification; 2. Implement the agreed proposals; 3. Amend proposal if appropriate. |
Limit Level |
|
|||
1. Exceedance for one sample |
1. Identify source, investigate the causes of exceedance
and propose remedial measures; 2. Inform WKCDA, Contractor and EPD; 3. Repeat measurement to confirm finding; 4. Increase monitoring frequency to daily; 5. Assess effectiveness of Contractor’s remedial actions and keep IEC,
EPD and WKCDA informed of the results. |
1. Check monitoring data submitted by ET; 2. Check Contractor’s working method; 3. Discuss with ET and Contractor on possible remedial measures; 4. Advise the WKCDA on the effectiveness of the proposed remedial
measures; 5. Monitor the implementation of remedial measures. |
1. Confirm receipt of notification of failure in writing; 2. Notify Contractor; 3. Ensure remedial measures properly implemented. |
1. Take immediate action to avoid further exceedance; 2. Submit proposals for remedial actions to IEC within three working
days of notification; 3. Implement the agreed proposals; 4. Amend proposal if appropriate. |
2. Exceedance for two or more consecutive
samples |
1. Notify IEC, WKCDA, Contractor and EPD; 2. Identify source; 3. Repeat measurement to confirm findings; 4. Increase monitoring frequency to daily; 5. Carry out analysis of Contractor’s working procedures to determine
possible mitigation to be implemented; 6. Arrange meeting with IEC and WKCDA to discuss the remedial actions
to be taken; 7. Assess effectiveness of Contractor’s remedial actions and keep IEC,
EPD and WKCDA informed of the results; 8. If exceedance stops, cease additional
monitoring. |
1. Check monitoring data submitted by ET; 2. Check Contractor’s working method; 3. Discuss amongst WKCDA, ET, and Contractor on the potential remedial
actions; 4. Review Contractor’s remedial actions whenever necessary to assure
their effectiveness and advise the WKCDA accordingly; 5. Monitor the implementation of remedial measures. |
1. Confirm receipt of notification of failure in writing; 2. Notify Contractor; 3. In consolidation with the IEC, agree with the Contractor on the
remedial measures to be implemented; 4. Ensure remedial measures properly implemented; 5. If exceedance continues, consider what
portion of the work is responsible and instruct the Contractor to stop that
portion of work until the exceedance is abated. |
1. Take immediate action to avoid further exceedance; 2. Submit proposals for remedial actions to IEC within three working
days of notification; 3. Implement the agreed proposals; 4. Resubmit proposals if problem still not under control; 5. Stop the relevant portion of works as determined by the WKCDA until
the exceedance is abated. |
11.3.1.10 Mitigation Measures
Appropriate dust suppression measures should be adopted as required under the relevant requirements stipulated in the Air Pollution Control (Construction Dust) Regulation and EPD’s Guidance Note on the Best Practicable Means for Cement Works (Concrete Batching Plant) BPM 3/2(93) as well as the good practices for dust control should be implemented to reduce the dust impact. A control programme can be instigated to monitor the construction process in order to enforce dust controls and modify methods of works where feasible to reduce the dust emission down to acceptable levels. The implementation schedule of recommended air quality mitigation measures is presented in Appendix E.
11.3.2 Operational Air Quality Monitoring
With the full implementation of the recommended mitigation measures during operation phase, no adverse air impact is anticipated. Operational phase air quality monitoring is not considered necessary.
11.4.1 Construction Airborne Noise Monitoring
11.4.1.1 Monitoring Requirements
The construction noise level should be
measured in terms of the A-weighted equivalent continuous sound pressure level
(Leq). Leq (30 minutes) should
be used as the monitoring parameter between 0700 and 1900 hours on normal
weekdays. For all other time periods, Leq (5 minutes)
should be employed for comparison with the Noise Control Ordinance (NCO)
criteria.
Supplementary information for data auditing,
statistical results such as L10 and L90 should also be obtained for reference.
11.4.1.2 Monitoring Equipment
As referred to in the Technical Memorandum
(TM) issued under the NCO, sound level meters in compliance with the
International Electrotechnical Commission Publications
651:1979 (Type 1) and 804:1985 (Type 1) specifications should be used for
carrying out the noise monitoring. Immediately prior to and following each
noise measurement the accuracy of the sound level meter should be checked using
an acoustic calibrator generating a known sound pressure level at a known
frequency. Measurements may be accepted
as valid only if the calibration level from before and after the noise
measurement agree to within 1.0 dB.
Noise measurements should not be made in
fog, rain, wind with a steady speed exceeding 5 m/s or wind with gusts
exceeding 10 m/s. The wind speed should be checked with a portable wind speed
meter capable of measuring the wind speed in m/s.
The ET is responsible for the provision of
the monitoring equipment. He should ensure that sufficient noise measuring
equipment and associated instrumentation are available for carrying out the
baseline monitoring, regular impact monitoring and ad hoc monitoring. All the
equipment and associated instrumentation should be clearly labelled.
A sample data record sheet is shown in Appendix
B for reference.
11.4.1.3 Monitoring Locations
The noise
monitoring locations (refer to Figure 11.3)
are summarised in Table
11.4. The status and locations of noise sensitive receivers may change
after issuing this manual. If such cases
exist, the ET should propose updated monitoring locations and seek agreement
from EPD, the WKCDA
and the IEC before baseline monitoring commences.
Table 11.4: Construction Noise Monitoring Stations
ID |
ID adopted in Construction Noise Assessment |
Description |
NM1 |
HT3 |
The Harbourside Tower 3 |
NM2 |
P29 |
Parcel 29 in WKCD (Monitoring to start after occupation of development in 2019, subject to the construction programme of
the Project) |
When alternative monitoring locations are
proposed, the monitoring locations should be chosen based on the following
criteria:
¡ monitoring at sensitive receivers close to the major site activities which are likely to have noise impacts;
¡ monitoring at the noise sensitive receivers as defined in the Technical Memorandum; and
¡ assurance of minimal disturbance to the occupants during monitoring.
The monitoring station should normally be at
a point 1 m from the exterior of the sensitive receiver building facade and be
at a position 1.2 m above the ground. If there is problem with access to the
normal monitoring position, an alternative position may be chosen, and a
correction to the measurements should be made. For reference, a correction of
+3 dB(A) should be made to the free field measurements. The ET should agree
with the IEC on the monitoring position and the corrections adopted. Once the
positions for the monitoring stations are chosen, the baseline monitoring and
the impact monitoring should be carried out at the same positions.
11.4.1.4 Baseline Monitoring
The ET should carry out baseline noise
monitoring prior to the commencement of the construction works. The baseline
monitoring should be carried out daily for a period of at least two weeks.
Before commencing the baseline monitoring, the ET should develop and submit to
the IEC the baseline monitoring programme such that the IEC can conduct on-site
audit to check accuracy of the baseline monitoring results.
There should not be any construction
activities in the vicinity of the stations during the baseline monitoring.
In exceptional cases, when insufficient baseline monitoring data or questionable results are obtained, the ET Leader should liaise with the WKCDA, EPD and IEC to agree on an appropriate set of data to be used as a baseline reference and submit to the WKCDA and IEC for agreement and EPD for approval.
11.4.1.5 Impact Monitoring
Noise monitoring should be carried out at
all the designated monitoring stations, except NM2, throughout the entire
construction work period. The impact monitoring at NM2 will be started after
occupation of the development. The monitoring frequency should depend on the
scale of the construction activities. The following is an initial guide on the
regular monitoring frequency for each station on a weekly basis when noise
generating activities are underway:
¡ one set of measurements between 0700 and 1900 hours on normal weekdays
If construction works are extended to
include works during the hours of 1900 – 0700 as well as public holidays and
Sundays, additional weekly impact monitoring should be carried out during
respective restricted hours periods. Applicable permits under NCO should also
be obtained by the Contractor.
If a school exists near the construction
activity, noise monitoring should be carried out at the monitoring stations for
the schools during the school examination periods. The ET Leader should liaise
with the school’s personnel and the Examination Authority to ascertain the
exact dates and times of all examination periods during the course of the
contract.
In case of non-compliance with the
construction noise criteria, more frequent monitoring, as specified in the
Action Plan in Table
11.6, should be carried out. This additional monitoring should be
continued until the recorded noise levels are rectified or demonstrated to be
unrelated to the construction activities.
11.4.2 Event and Action Plan
The Action and Limit (AL) Levels for construction noise are defined in Table 11.5. Should non-compliance of the criteria occur, action in accordance with the Event and Action Plan in Table 11.6 should be carried out.
Table 11.5: Action and Limit Level for Construction Noise
Time Period |
Action |
Limit |
0700-1900 hrs on
normal weekdays |
When one valid documented complaint is
received. |
75* dB(A) |
Note: *70 dB(A) for
schools and 65 dB(A) during school examination periods.
If
works are to be carried out during restricted hours, the conditions stipulated
in the Construction Noise Permit (CNP) issued by the Noise Control Authority
have to be followed.
Table 11.6: Event and Action Plan for Construction Noise
Event |
Action |
|||
ET |
IEC |
WKCDA |
Contractor |
|
Action Level |
1. Notify WKCDA, IEC and Contractor; 2.
Carry out investigation; 3. Report the results of investigation
to the IEC, WKCDA and Contractor; 4. Discuss with the IEC and Contractor
on remedial measures required; 5. Increase monitoring frequency to
check mitigation effectiveness. |
1. Review the investigation results
submitted by the ET; 2. Review the proposed remedial
measures by the Contractor and advise the WKCDA accordingly; 3. Advise the WKCDA on the
effectiveness of the proposed remedial measures. |
1. Confirm receipt of notification of
failure in writing; 2. Notify Contractor; 3. In consolidation with the IEC, agree
with the Contractor on the remedial measures to be implemented; 4. Supervise the implementation of
remedial measures. |
1. Submit noise mitigation proposals to
IEC and WKCDA; 2. Implement noise mitigation
proposals. |
Limit Level |
1. Inform IEC, WKCDA, Contractor and
EPD; 2. Repeat measurements to confirm
findings; 3. Increase monitoring frequency; 4. Identify source and investigate the
cause of exceedance; 5. Carry out analysis of Contractor’s
working procedures; 6. Discuss with the IEC, Contractor and
WKCDA on remedial measures required; 7. Assess effectiveness of Contractor’s
remedial actions and keep IEC, EPD and WKCDA informed of the results; 8. If exceedance
stops, cease additional monitoring. |
1. Discuss amongst WKCDA, ET, and
Contractor on the potential remedial actions; 2. Review Contractor’s remedial actions
whenever necessary to assure their effectiveness and advise the WKCDA
accordingly. |
1. Confirm receipt of notification of
failure in writing; 2. Notify Contractor; 3. In consolidation with the IEC, agree
with the Contractor on the remedial measures to be implemented; 4. Supervise the implementation of
remedial measures; 5. If exceedance
continues, consider stopping the Contractor to continue working on that
portion of work which causes the exceedance until
the exceedance is abated. |
1. Take immediate action to avoid
further exceedance; 2. Submit proposals for remedial
actions to IEC and WKCDA within 3 working days of notification; 3. Implement the agreed proposals; 4. Submit further proposal if problem still
not under control; 5. Stop the relevant portion of works
as instructed by the WKCDA until the exceedance is
abated. |
11.4.2.1 Operational Noise Monitoring
No monitoring is considered necessary.
11.4.2.2 Mitigation Measures
Recommended construction noise control and mitigation measures are proposed in the EIA report. The Contractor should be responsible for the design and implementation of these measures under the supervision of the ER and monitored by the ET. The implementation schedule of the recommended noise mitigation measures is presented in Appendix E.
11.5.1 Construction Phase Monitoring
Adverse water quality impact was not predicted during the construction and operation phases of the proposed flyover. Nevertheless, appropriate mitigation measures are recommended to minimize potential water quality impacts.
Regular audit of
the implementation of the recommended mitigation measures during the construction
phase at the work areas should also be undertaken to ensure the recommended
mitigation measures are properly implemented. Proposed mitigation measures for containing and
minimizing water quality impacts are listed in the implementation schedule given
in Appendix E.
11.5.2 Operation Phase Monitoring
With the implementation of the recommended
mitigation measures during operational phase, no adverse water quality impact
is anticipated. Operational phase water quality monitoring is therefore not
considered necessary.
11.6 Sewerage and Sewage Treatment Implication
The flyover is
part of a network of infrastructure within the WKCD development to meet the
connectivity and accessibility requirements of the WKCD. The flyover does not
require or generate any sewage or sewerage related facilities. Consequently,
there are no sewerage and sewage treatment implications associated with the
flyover. Therefore, environmental
monitoring and audit activities are not required.
11.7 Waste Management Implication
11.7.1 Construction Phase Monitoring
11.7.1.1
Monitoring Requirements
The Contractor is responsible for waste management activities during the construction phase. The Contractor must ensure that all wastes produced during the construction phase are handled, stored and disposed of in accordance with EPD’s regulations and requirements and in line with good waste management practices. A Waste Management Plan should be prepared and implemented in accordance with ETWB TC (W) No. 19/2005 Environmental Management on Construction Site.
During
construction phase, regular site inspection (at least once per week) as part of
the EM&A procedures should be carried out to determine if wastes are being
managed in accordance with approved procedures and the Waste Management Plan. Waste materials generated during
the construction works, such as Construction and Demolition (C&D) material,
general refuse and chemical wastes, are recommended to be monitored on a weekly
basis to ensure that proper storage, transportation and disposal practices are
being implemented. This monitoring of waste management practices will ensure
that these solid and liquid wastes are not disposed into the nearby harbour
waters. The Contractor would be responsible for the implementation of any
mitigation measures to minimise waste or redress problems arising from the
waste materials.
11.7.1.2
Audit Requirements
It is recommended that the waste generated
during the construction activities should be audited periodically (at least once per week) to determine if wastes are being managed in accordance with approved
procedures and the site Waste Management Plan. The audits should look at all
aspects of waste management including waste generation, storage, transport and
disposal. An appropriate audit programme would be to undertake a first audit
near the commencement of the construction works, and then to audit periodically
thereafter. In addition, the routine site inspections should check the
implementation of the recommended good site practices and other waste
management mitigation measures.
A summary of all key types of waste arising and
the reuse and disposal methods proposed during the construction phase of the
Project is presented in Table
11.7.
11.7.1.3 Mitigation Measures
The implementation schedule of the
recommended waste management mitigation measures is presented in Appendix E.
11.7.2 Operation Phase Monitoring
During operation phase, the proposed flyover will not involve any waste generating activities. Therefore, no adverse waste management impact is anticipated during operation phase and hence, no specific waste monitoring is required.
Table 11.7: Summary of Waste Arisings during Construction Phase
Waste Type |
Key Sources of Waste
Generation |
Timing of Waste
Generation |
Estimated Quantity of
Waste Generation |
Waste Reuse or Disposal |
Waste Handling |
Inert C&D Materials |
Minority from excavation at bridge piers
and abutments, and from construction of the flyover
superstructure |
Tentatively from 2014 to 2017 |
Up to 3,000 m3 in total |
All inert C&D materials would be reused on-site as fill materials for the Park. In
case of any surplus inert C&D materials, such
materials may be disposed of at the Government’s PFRFs for beneficial use by other
projects in Hong Kong (subject to endorsement by the relevant authorities
including PFC of CEDD and EPD) |
Segregate inert C&D materials to avoid
contamination from other waste arising |
C&D Materials from Site Clearance |
General site
clearance |
Tentatively from 2014 to 2017 |
About 600 m3
in total |
Any inert materials segregated from the
C&D materials to be reused on-site as far as practicable or disposed of
at the Government’s PFRFs
for beneficial use by other projects in Hong Kong Non-inert materials segregated from the
C&D materials to be disposed of at the designated landfill sites |
Segregate on site the C&D materials
into inert and non-inert materials |
General Refuse |
Waste paper, discarded containers, etc.
generated from the site workforce |
Tentatively from 2014 to 2017 |
0.65 kg per worker per day, the maximum
daily arising of general refuse during the construction period would be
approximately 65 kg |
Refuse station for compaction and
containerisation and then to landfill for disposal |
Provide on-site refuse collection points |
Chemical Waste |
Used solvents, contaminated rags, waste
lubricating oil, etc., from maintenance and servicing of construction plant
and equipment |
Tentatively from 2014 to 2017 |
Less than one cubic metre per month (preliminary estimate) |
Disposal of at the Chemical Waste Treatment Centre or other licensed recycling facilities
|
Stored on-site by suitably designed
containers for off-site disposal or recycling |
Since no potential land contamination issues associated with the proposed flyover, therefore, environmental monitoring and audit activities are not required.
Since no specific ecological mitigation
measure is required, therefore environmental monitoring and audit activities
for ecology are not required.
11.10 Landscape and Visual Impact
11.10.1 Introduction
In addition to ensuring the effective implementation of mitigation measures recommended in Section 15.10 of the EIA report and compliance with relevant environmental standards, this section proposes systematic procedures for monitoring, auditing and minimizing the anticipated landscape and visual impacts and implementation of proposed mitigation measures.
11.10.2 Baseline Monitoring
The baseline monitoring aims to establish a baseline that collects information on the current site characteristics prior to the development in order to:
¡ Make comparisons between different pre-development and post development;
¡ Detect changes; and
¡ Make comparisons against a standard.
Baseline studies
on landscape and visual amenity of the site and its surroundings have been
provided in Section 15.10.4 of the EIA
report which documents the existing environmental conditions prior to the development.
A one-off survey should be undertaken to update and record the baseline
conditions with photographs prior to the commencement of construction works.
11.10.3 Mitigation Measures
11.10.3.1
Mitigation Measures for Construction Phase Impacts
Mitigation measures are proposed in the EIA
report to minimize the landscape and visual impacts during the construction
phase. Tables 11.8 and 11.9 summarize these proposed mitigation
measures for landscape and visual impacts respectively.
Table 11.8: Landscape mitigation measures during construction phase
Ref. No. |
Mitigation Measures during
Construction Phase |
Funding Agency |
Implementation Agency |
Management/ Maintenance Agency |
CM1 |
Trees should be retained in situ on site as
far as possible. Should tree removal be unavoidable due to construction
impacts, trees will be transplanted or felled with reference to the stated
criteria in the Tree Removal Applications to be submitted to relevant government
departments for approval in accordance to ETWB TCW No. 29/2004 and 3/2006. |
WKCDA – for works area within WKCD site CEDD- for works area of external connections Private Developer – for works area within private
land sale lots |
Contractor |
WKCDA or appointed landscape contractor |
CM2 |
Compensatory tree planting shall be
incorporated to the proposed project and maximize the
new tree, shrubs and other vegetation planting to compensate tree felled and
vegetation removed. Also, implementation of
compensatory planting should be of a ratio not less than 1:1 in terms of
quality and quantity within the site. |
Same as above |
Contractor |
WKCDA or appointed landscape contractor |
CM3 |
Buffer trees for screening purposes to soften
the hard architectural and engineering structures and facilities. |
Same as above |
Contractor |
WKCDA or appointed landscape contractor |
CM4 |
Softscape
treatments such as vertical green wall panel /planting of climbing and/or
weeping plants, etc, to maximize the green coverage
and soften the hard architectural and engineering
structures and facilities. |
Same as above |
Detailed Design Consultant / Contractor |
WKCDA or appointed landscape contractor |
CM7 |
Structure, ornamental planting shall
be provided along amenity strips to enhance the landscape quality. |
Same as above |
Contractor |
WKCDA or appointed
landscape contractor |
CM8 |
Landscape design shall be
incorporated to architectural and engineering structures in order to provide
aesthetically pleasing designs. |
Same as above |
Detailed Design
Consultant / Contractor |
WKCDA or appointed
landscape contractor |
Table 11.9: Visual mitigation measures during construction phase
Mitigation Measures |
Target VSRs |
Funding Agency |
Implementation Agency |
Management/ Maintenance
Agency |
|
MMCP1 |
Use of decorative screen hoarding/ boards |
All of the VSRs |
WKCDA – for works area within WKCD site CEDD – for works area of external connections |
Contractor |
Contractor |
MMCP2 |
Control of night time lighting such as
avoidance of lighting from spilling onto nearby developments |
Residential VSR (i.e. VSR 3) |
WKCDA – for works area within WKCD site |
Contractor |
Contractor |
11.10.3.2
Mitigation Measures for Operation Phase Impacts
Mitigation measures to minimize the landscape
and visual impacts during the operation phase are proposed in the EIA report. Tables 11.10 and 11.11 summarize
these proposed mitigation measures for landscape and visual impacts
respectively.
Table 11.10: Landscape mitigation measures during operation phase
Ref. No. |
Mitigation Measures during
Operation Phase |
Funding Agency |
Implementation Agency |
Management/ Maintenance
Agency |
OM1 |
Provide
proper planting establishment works, including watering, pruning, weeding,
pest control, replacement of dead plant, etc, on
the new planting areas to enhance the aesthetic design degree |
WKCDA – for works area within WKCD site CEDD- for works area of external connections Private Developer –
for works areas within private land sale lots |
Contractor |
LCSD – for public roadside and pedestrian
footbridge planting1 Private Developers – for all landscaping within
the private land sale lots WKCDA – for all other areas within WKCD |
OM2 |
Provision
of open space in various forms and at different levels on or above ground,
including park, waterfront promenade, piazzas and terrace garden and associated
green connections for public enjoyment. |
WKCDA |
Detailed Design Consultant / Contractor |
WKCDA or appointed
landscape contractor |
1 in accordance with ETWB No. 2/2004
Table 11.11: Visual mitigation measures during operation phase
|
Mitigation Measures |
Target VSRs |
Funding Agency |
Implementation Agency |
Management/Maintenance
Agency |
MMOP1 |
Integrated design of the flyover with the
existing flyover located to the west of the Elements |
All VSRs |
WKCDA – for works area within WKCD site CEDD – for works area of external
connections |
Contractor |
n/a |
MMOP2 |
Softscape treatments such as climber shall be incorporated to soften the hard
engineering structures. |
All VSRs |
Same as above |
Contractor |
LCSD – for public roadside and pedestrian
footbridge planting1 WKCDA – for all other areas within WKCD |
MMOP3 |
Compensatory planting in close proximity of
the flyover structure |
All VSRs |
Same as above |
Contractor |
LCSD – for public roadside and pedestrian
footbridge planting1 WKCDA – for all other areas within WKCD |
MMOP4 |
Ornamental planting shall be provided along
amenity strips to enhance the landscape quality. |
All VSRs |
Same as above |
Contractor |
LCSD – for public roadside and pedestrian
footbridge planting1 WKCDA – for all other areas within WKCD |
MMOP5 |
Control of night time lighting such as careful considerations for the locations and the angle of the
lighting |
Residential VSR (i.e. VSR 3) |
WKCDA – for works areas within WKCD site |
Contractor |
WKCDA / Contractor |
1 in accordance with
ETWB No. 2/2004
11.10.4 Environmental Monitoring and Audit
Requirements
An Environmental Team (ET) should be employed
by the WKCDA to undertake the EM&A works. The ET should include a
Registered Landscape Architect (RLA), or capable person, as landscape auditor.
The Independent Environmental Checker (IEC) will be engaged by the WKCDA to
audit the work of the ET, who is responsible for reviewing the EM&A works
performed by the ET, auditing the monitoring activities and results and reviewing
proposals on mitigation measures submitted by the Contractor.
During the landscape and visual impact monitoring, any changes in relation to the landscape and visual amenity should be monitored with reference to the baseline conditions of the site. In addition, proposed mitigation measures as shown in Tables 11.8 to 11.11 should be checked for proper implementation.
11.10.5 Monitoring Programs
The proposed monitoring program for landscape and visual impact is detailed in Table 11.12.
Table 11.12: Monitoring Program for Landscape and Visual Impact
Stage |
Monitoring Task |
Frequency |
Report |
Approval |
Design |
Design check by ET to make sure the design complies with the proposed
mitigation measures in the EIA report. |
Once at completion of Design Stage |
ET to confirm that the design complies with the proposed mitigation
measures in the EIA report. |
WKCDA |
Construction |
Monitor implementation of proposed mitigation measures during the
construction stage. |
Bi-weekly |
ET to report on Contractor’s compliance |
Counter-signed by IEC |
Operation |
Monitor soft landscape works during the 12-month establishment period
after construction completes. |
Monthly |
ET to report on Contractor’s compliance |
Counter-signed by IEC |
11.10.6 Event and Action Plan
In case of non-compliance of landscape and
visual impacts, procedures in accordance with the action plan as shown in Table 11.13
should be followed.
Table 11.13: Event and Action Plan for Landscape and Visual Impact
Event/ Action |
Action |
|||
ET |
IEC |
WKCDA |
Contractor |
|
Design Check |
1. Design check to make sure the design complies with all the proposed
mitigation measures in the EIA report; 2. Prepare and submit report. |
1. Check report submitted by ET; 2. Recommend remedial design if necessary. |
1. Undertake remedial design if necessary. |
|
Non-conformity on
one occasion |
1. Identify source of non-conformity; 2. Report to IEC and WKCDA; 3. Discuss remedial actions with IEC,
WKCDA and Contractor; 4. Monitor remedial actions until
rectification has been completed. |
1. Check and verify source of
non-conformity; 2. Discuss remedial actions with ET and
Contractor; 3. Advise WKCDA on effectiveness of proposed
remedial actions; 4. Check implementation of remedial
actions. |
1. Notify Contractor; 2. Ensure remedial actions are properly
implemented. |
1. Amend working method as necessary; 2. Rectify damage and undertake
necessary replacement and remedial actions. |
Repeated non-conformity |
1. Identify source of non-conformity; 2. Report to IEC and WKCDA; 3. Increase monitoring frequency; 4. Discuss remedial actions with IEC,
WKCDA and Contractor; 5. Monitor remedial actions until
rectification has been completed; 6. If non-conformity rectified, reduce
monitoring frequency back to normal. |
1. Check and verify source of
non-conformity; 2. Check Contractor’s working method; 3. Discuss remedial actions with ET and
Contractor; 4. Advise WKCDA on effectiveness of
proposed remedial actions; 5. Supervise implementation of remedial
actions. |
1. Notify Contractor; 2. Ensure remedial actions are properly
implemented. |
1. Amend working method as necessary; 2. Rectify damage and undertake
necessary replacement and remedial actions. |
|
12.1 Site Inspections
Site inspections provide a direct means to trigger and enforce the specified environmental protection and pollution control measures. They should be undertaken routinely by the ET to inspect the construction activities in order to ensure that appropriate environmental protection and pollution control mitigation measures are properly implemented. With well defined pollution control and mitigation specifications and a well established site inspection, deficiency and action reporting system, the site inspection is one of the most effective tools to enforce the environmental protection requirements on the construction site.
The ET Leader is
responsible for formulating the environmental site inspection, the deficiency
and action reporting system, and for carrying out the site inspection works. He
should prepare a proposal for site inspection and deficiency and action
reporting procedures to the IEC for agreement, and to the ER for approval. The
Contractor’s proposal for rectification would be made known to the ER and IEC.
Regular site
inspections led by the ET leader should be carried out at least once per week.
The areas of inspection should not be limited to the environmental situation,
pollution control and mitigation measures within the site; it should also
review the environmental situation outside the Project sites which is likely to
be affected, directly or indirectly, by the site activities. The ET should make
reference to the following information in conducting the inspection:
¡ the EIA and EM&A
recommendations on environmental protection and pollution control mitigation
measures;
¡ the Environmental
Permit conditions;
¡ ongoing results of the
EM&A program;
¡ works progress and
programme;
¡ individual works
methodology proposals (which should include proposal on associated pollution
control measures);
¡ contract
specifications on environmental protection;
¡ relevant
environmental protection and pollution control laws; and
¡ previous site inspection results undertaken by the ET and
others.
The Contractor should keep the ET Leader
updated with all relevant information on the construction contract necessary
for him to carry out the site inspections. Inspection results and associated
recommendations for improvements to the environmental protection and pollution
control works should be submitted to the IEC and the Contractor within 24 hours
for reference and for taking immediate action. The Contractor should follow the
procedures and time-frame stipulated in the environmental site inspection, and
the deficiency and action reporting system formulated by the ET Leader, to
report on any remedial measures subsequent to the site inspections.
The ET should also carry out ad hoc site inspections if
significant environmental problems are identified. Inspections may also be
required subsequent to receipt of an environmental complaint, or as part of the
investigation work.
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 construction
activities must comply.
In order that
the works are in compliance with the contractual requirements, relevant
sections (e.g. sections related to environmental measures) of works method
statements submitted by the Contractor to the ER for approval should be sent to
the ET Leader for vetting to see whether sufficient environmental protection
and pollution control measures have been included.
The ET Leader
should also keep himself informed of the progress and programme of the works to
check that relevant environmental laws have not been violated, and that any
foreseeable potential for violation can be prevented.
The
Contractor should regularly copy relevant documents to the ET Leader so that
works checking can be carried out. The document should at least include the
updated Works Progress Reports, updated Works Programme, any application
letters for different licences / permits under the environmental protection
laws, and copies of all valid licences / permits. The site diary should also be
made available for the ET Leader's inspection upon his request.
After
reviewing the documentation, the ET Leader should advise the Contractor of any
noncompliance with contractual and legislative requirements on environmental
protection and pollution control for them to take follow-up actions, including any
potential violation of requirements.
Upon receipt of the advice, the Contractor should undertake immediate action to correct the situation. The ER should follow up to ensure that appropriate action has been taken in order to satisfy contractual and legal requirements.
¡ The
Contractor to log complaint
and date of receipt onto the complaint database and inform the ER, ET and IEC
immediately;
¡ The
Contractor to investigate the complaint to determine its
validity, and assess whether the source of the problem is due to construction
works of the Project with the support of additional monitoring frequency,
stations and parameters, if necessary;
¡ The
Contractor to identify mitigation measures
in consultation with the IEC, ET and ER if a complaint is valid and due to the
construction works of the Project;
¡ The
Contractor to implement the remedial measures as required by the ER and to
agree with the ET and IEC any additional monitoring frequency, stations and
parameters, where necessary, for checking the effectiveness of the mitigation
measures;
¡ The
ER, ET and IEC to review the effectiveness of the Contractor's remedial
measures and the updated situation;
¡ The
ET to undertake additional monitoring and audit to verify the situation if
necessary, and oversee that circumstances leading to the complaint do not
recur;
¡ If
the complaint is referred by the EPD, the Contractor to prepare interim report
on the status of the complaint investigation and follow-up actions stipulated
above, including the details of the remedial measures and additional monitoring
identified or already taken, for submission to EPD within the time frame
assigned by the EPD;
¡ The
ET to record the details of the complaint, results of the investigation, subsequent actions taken to address the
complaint and updated situation including the effectiveness of the remedial
measures, supported by regular and
additional monitoring results in the monthly EM&A reports.
Handling of environmental
complaints should follow the environmental complaint flow diagram and reporting
channel as presented in Figure 12.1.
During the complaint investigation work, the
Contractor and ER should cooperate with the ET in providing all necessary
information and assistance for completion of the investigation. If mitigation
measures are identified in the investigation, the Contractor should promptly
carry out the mitigation works. The ER should
ensure that the measures have been carried out by the Contractor.
13.1 Introduction
The reporting requirements of EM&A are
based upon a paper-documented approach. However, the same information can be
provided in an electronic medium upon agreeing the format with the IEC, the ER
and EPD (for construction phase), and with the Environmental Consultant, WKCDA
and EPD (for operation phase). This would enable a transition from a paper /
historic and reactive approach to an electronic / real time proactive approach.
For construction phase of EM&A, types of
reports that the ET Leader should 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 should
be submitted to the Director of Environmental Protection. The exact details of
the frequency, distribution and time frame for submission should be agreed with
the IEC, the ER and EPD prior to commencement of works
13.2 Baseline Monitoring Report
The ET Leader should prepare and submit a
Baseline Environmental Monitoring Report within 10 working days of completion
of the baseline monitoring. Copies of the Baseline Environmental Monitoring
Report should be submitted to the Contractor, the IEC, the ER, WKCDA and EPD.
The ET Leader should liaise with the relevant parties on the exact number of
copies they require. The report format and baseline monitoring data format should
be agreed with the IEC, the ER and EPD prior to submission.
The baseline monitoring report should
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)
an updated construction programme with milestones of environmental
protection / mitigation activities annotated
(v)
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, where
relevant)
¡ monitoring date, time, frequency and
duration
¡ quality assurance (QA) / quality control
(QC) results and detection limits
(v) details of influencing factors, including:
¡ major activities, if any, being carried out
on the site during the period/monitoring
¡ weather conditions during the
period/monitoring
¡ other factors which might affect results
(vi) determination of the Action and Limit Levels for each
monitoring parameter and statistical analysis of the baseline data, the
analysis should 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
(viii) comments and conclusions
The results and findings of all EM&A
work carried out during the month should be recorded in the monthly EM&A
reports prepared by the ET Leader. The EM&A report should be prepared and
submitted within 10 working days after the end of each reporting month. Each
monthly EM&A report should be submitted to the following parties: the
Contractor, the IEC, the ER, WKCDA and the EPD. Before submission of the first
EM&A report, the ET Leader should liaise with the parties on the required
number of copies and format of the monthly reports in both hard copy and
electronic medium.
The ET leader should 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.
13.3.1 First
Monthly EM&A Report
The first
monthly EM&A report should include at least but not be limited to the
following:
(i) executive
summary (1-2 pages):
¡ breaches of Action and Limit levels
¡ complaint log
¡ notifications of any summons and status of
prosecutions
¡ changes made that affect the EM&A
¡ future key issues
(ii) basic project information:
¡ project organisation including key personnel
contact names and telephone numbers
¡ scope of works of the Project
¡ construction programme
¡ works undertaken during the month with
illustrations (such as location of works etc)
¡ drawings showing the project area, any
environmental sensitive receivers and the locations of the monitoring and
control stations (with co-ordinates of the monitoring locations)
(iii) a brief summary of EM&A requirements
including:
¡ all 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
¡ environmental requirements in contract
documents
(iv) environmental status:
¡ advice on status of compliance with environmental
permit including the status of submissions under the environmental permit
(v) implementation status:
¡ implementation status of environmental
protection and pollution control / mitigation measures, as recommended in the
EIA Report
(vi) 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
¡ monitoring date, time, frequency, and
duration
¡ weather conditions during the
period/monitoring
¡ graphical plots of the monitored parameters
in the month annotated against
¡ the major activities being carried out on
site during the period
¡ weather conditions that may affect the
monitoring results
¡ any other factors which might affect the
monitoring results
¡ QA/QC results and detection limits
(vii) analysis of monitoring results,
non-compliance, complaints, and notifications of summons and status of
prosecutions:
¡ analysis and interpretation of monitoring
results in the month
¡ any non-compliance (exceedances)
of the environmental quality performance limits (Action and Limit levels)
¡ changes made that affect the EM&A during
the month
¡ complaints received (written or verbal) for
each media, including locations and nature of complaints, investigation,
liaison and consultation undertaken, actions and follow-up procedures taken,
results and summary
¡ notification of summons and status of
prosecutions for breaches of current environmental protection / pollution
control legislation, including locations and nature of the breaches,
investigation, follow-up actions taken, results and summary
¡ reasons for and the implications of
non-compliance, complaints, summons and prosecutions including review of
pollution sources and working procedures
¡ actions taken in the event of non-compliance
and deficiency, and follow-up actions related to earlier non-compliance
(viii) others
¡ an account of the future key issues as
reviewed from the works programme and work method statements
¡ comment on the solid and liquid waste
management status during the month including waste generation and disposal
records
¡ outstanding issues and deficiencies
¡ comments on effectiveness of the
environmental management systems, practices, procedures and mitigation
measures), recommendations (for example, any improvement in the EM&A
programme) and conclusions
(ix) appendix
¡ monitoring schedule for the present and next
reporting period
¡ cumulative statistics on complaints,
notifications of summons and successful prosecutions
¡ outstanding issues and deficiencies
13.3.2 Subsequent Monthly EM&A Reports
Subsequent monthly EM&A reports should include the following:
(i) executive
summary (1-2 pages):
¡ breaches of Action and Limit levels
¡ complaint log
¡ notifications of any summons and status of
prosecutions
¡ changes made that affect the EM&A
¡ future key issues
(ii) environmental status:
¡ advice on status of compliance with
environmental permit including the status of submissions under the
environmental permit
(iii) implementation status:
¡ implementation status of environmental
protection and pollution control / mitigation measures, as recommended in the
EIA Report
(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
¡ monitoring date, time, frequency, and
duration
¡ weather conditions during the
period/monitoring
¡ graphical plots of the monitored parameters
in the month annotated against:
-
the major activities being carried out on site during the period
-
weather conditions that may affect the monitoring results
-
any other factors which might affect the monitoring results
-
QA/QC results and detection limits
(v) analysis of monitoring results,
non-compliance, complaints, and notifications of summons and status of
prosecutions:
¡ analysis and interpretation of monitoring
results in the month
¡ any non-compliance (exceedances)
of the environmental quality performance limits (Action and Limit levels)
¡ changes made that affect the EM&A during
the month
¡ complaints received (written or verbal) for
each media, including locations and nature of complaints, investigation,
liaison and consultation undertaken, actions and follow-up procedures taken,
results and summary
¡ notification of summons and status of
prosecutions for breaches of current environmental protection / pollution
control legislation, including locations and nature of the breaches,
investigation, follow-up actions taken, results and summary
¡ reasons for and the implications of
non-compliance, complaints, summons and prosecutions including review of
pollution sources and working procedures
¡ actions taken in the event of non-compliance
and deficiency, and follow-up actions related to earlier non-compliance
(vi) others
¡ an account of the future key issues as
reviewed from the works programme and work method statements
¡ comment on the solid and liquid waste
management status during the month including waste generation and disposal
records
¡ outstanding issues and deficiencies
¡ comments on effectiveness of the
environmental management systems, practices, procedures and mitigation
measures), recommendations (for example, any improvement in the EM&A
programme) and conclusions
(vii) appendix
¡ monitoring schedule for the present and next
reporting period
¡ cumulative statistics on complaints,
notifications of summons and successful prosecutions
¡ outstanding issues and deficiencies
Some information concerning the EM&A
works, such as the EM&A requirements would remain unchanged throughout the
EM&A programme. In the subsequent Monthly EM&A Reports, the First
Monthly EM&A Report can be referred instead of repeating the description of
the unchanged information.
A quarterly EM&A report should be
produced and should contain at least the following information. In addition,
the first quarterly summary report should also confirm if the monitoring work
is proving effective and that it is generating data with the necessary
statistical power to categorically identify or confirm the absence of impact
attributable to the works.
(i) up to half
a page executive summary
(ii) basic project information including a
synopsis of the project organisation and programme, and a synopsis of works undertaken
during the quarter
(iii) a brief summary of EM&A requirements
including:
¡ monitoring parameters
¡ environmental quality performance limits
(Action and Limit levels)
¡ environmental mitigation measures, as
recommended in the project EIA Final Report
(iv) drawings showing the project area,
environmental sensitive receivers and the locations of the monitoring and
control stations
(v) implementation status of environmental
protection and pollution control / mitigation measures, as recommended in the
EIA Report
(vi) graphical plots of the 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
¡ any other factors which might affect the
monitoring results
(vii) advice on the solid and liquid waste
management status during the quarter including waste generation and disposal
records
(viii) a summary of non-compliance (exceedances) of the environmental quality performance
limits (Action and Limit levels)
(ix) a brief review of the reasons for and the
implications of any non-compliance, including a review of pollution sources and
working procedures
(x) a summary description of actions taken in
the event of non-compliance and any follow-up procedures related to any earlier
non-compliance
(xi) a summary of all complaints received
(written or verbal) for each media, liaison and consultation undertaken,
actions and follow-up procedures taken
(xii) comments on the effectiveness and efficiency
of the mitigation measures; recommendations on any improvement in the EM&A
programme and conclusions for the quarter
(xiii) proponents' contacts and any hotline
telephone number for the public to make enquiries.
The EM&A program could be terminated
upon completion of those construction activities that have the potential to
cause significant environmental impacts, and / or the completion of operational
traffic noise monitoring.
The proposed termination by the Contractor
should only be implemented after the proposal has been endorsed by the IEC, the
ER and WKCDA followed by final approval from the Director of Environmental
Protection.
The final
EM&A report should include, inter alia, the following information:
(i) an
executive summary
(ii) basic project information including a
synopsis of the project organisation and programme, contacts of key management,
and a synopsis of work undertaken during the entire construction period
(iii) a brief summary of EM&A requirements
including:
¡ monitoring parameters
¡ environmental quality performance limits
(Action and Limit levels)
¡ environmental mitigation measures, as
recommended in the project EIA study final report
(iv) drawings showing the project area, any
environmental sensitive receivers and the locations of the monitoring and
control stations
(v) advice on the implementation status of
environmental and pollution control / mitigation measures, as recommended in
the project EIA study final report, summarised in the updated implementation
status pro forma
(vi) graphical plots of the monitored
parameters over the construction period for representative monitoring stations,
including the post-project monitoring annotated against:
¡ 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
¡ the baseline condition
(vii) compare the EM&A data with the EIA predictions
(viii) effectiveness of 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 brief account of the reasons the
non-compliance including a review of pollution sources and working procedures
(xi) a summary of the actions taken against the
non-compliance
(xii) a summary of all complaints received
(written or verbal) for each media, liaison and consultation undertaken,
actions and follow-up procedures taken
(xiii) a review of the monitoring methodology
adopted and with the benefit of hindsight, comment on its effectiveness
(including cost effectiveness)
(xiv) a summary of notifications of summons 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
(xv) a review of the practicality and
effectiveness of the EM&A programme (e.g. effectiveness and efficiency of
the mitigation measures), and recommendation on any improvement in the EM&A
programme
(xvi) a conclusion to state the return of ambient
and / or the predicted scenario as per EIA findings
No site-based documents (such as monitoring
field records, laboratory analysis records, site inspection forms, etc.) are
required to be included in the EM&A reporting documents. However, any such
document should be retained by the ET Leader / Monitoring Team and be ready for
inspection upon request. All relevant information should be clearly and
systematically recorded in the document.
Monitoring data should also be recorded in digital format, and the
software copy must be available upon request. Data format should be agreed with
the IEC, the ER, WKCDA and EPD. All documents and data should be kept for at
least one year following completion of the construction contract and one year
after the completion of operation phase monitoring for construction phase
EM&A and operational phase EM&A respectively.
13.7 Interim Notifications of Environmental Quality Limit Exceedances
For construction phase EM&A, with
reference to the Event and Action Plan, when the environmental quality
performance limits are exceeded, the ET Leader should immediately notify the
IEC, the ER, WKCDA and EPD, as appropriate and should keep them informed of the
results of the investigation, proposed remedial measures, actions taken,
updated situation on site, need for further follow-up proposals, etc. A sample template for the interim
notifications is shown in Appendix
F. The ET Leader may modify the interim notification form for this
EM&A programme, the format of which should be approved by the ER and agreed
by the IEC.