1.1.1.1
To support social and economic development in
Hong Kong, there is a pressing need to optimise the supply of land for various
uses by sustainable and innovative approaches. One possible approach is rock cavern
development. The
Policy Agenda of the 2016 Policy Address has stated that works for the
relocation of the Sha Tin Sewage Treatment Works (STSTW) is to commence as soon
as possible for vacating the existing STSTW site for development purpose.
1.1.1.2
The Relocation of Sha Tin Sewage Treatment Works
(STSTW) to Caverns (the Project) is implemented so as to release the existing
site, of a size about 28 hectares, for other uses.
1.1.1.3
In May 2012, Drainage Services Department (DSD),
the Project Proponent commenced a feasibility study on ¡§Relocation of Sha Tin
Sewage Treatment Works to Caverns¡¨ (the Feasibility Study). The findings of Feasibility Study
affirmed that relocating the STSTW to caverns to be constructed at Nui Po Shan
of A Kung Kok is technically feasible and financially viable.
1.1.1.4
In November 2013, DSD consulted the Health and
Environment Committee of the Sha Tin District Council (STDC) on the findings
and recommendations of the Feasibility Study and the Committee generally
supported the Government to proceed with the investigation and design of the
Project.
1.1.1.5
AECOM Asia Co Ltd. was commissioned by DSD to
carry out this Assignment for the investigation, design and construction
supervision under Agreement No. CE 30/2014 (DS) ¡§Relocation of Sha Tin Sewage
Treatment Works to Caverns: Caverns and Sewage Treatment Works ¡V Investigation,
Design and Construction¡¨ (the Assignment).
The Project is a Designated Project under the Environmental Impact
Assessment Ordinance (EIAO). An
Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Study for the Project has been undertaken
as part of the Assignment, in accordance with the EIA Study Brief (No.
ESB-273/2014) and the Technical Memorandum on Environmental Impact Assessment
Process (EIAO-TM).
1.2.1.1
Figure
No. 60334056/EM&A/1.01 shows the location plan of the Project. The Project comprises the following components:
(i)
Construction of caverns at Nui Po Shan for
housing the Sha Tin Cavern Sewage Treatment Works (CSTW);
(ii)
Construction of a secondary sewage treatment
works including sludge treatment facilities inside the caverns, with a design
capacity of 340,000 m3/day at average dry weather flow (ADWF);
(iii)
Construction of the main and secondary access tunnels
and portals for access to the CSTW;
(iv)
Construction of ancillary facilities to the
caverns, including ventilation system, fire services, safety measures,
communication systems, utilities, etc;
(v)
Site formation and construction of ancillary
facilities including a multi-storey administration building with laboratories,
workshops, staff office, visitor facilities, etc, ventilation building,
electrical substation, and other minor buildings and internal access road in
the main portal located at A Kung Kok Street;
(vi)
Site formation and construction of ancillary
facilities including a ventilation building, secondary electrical substation
and internal access road in the secondary portal located at Mui Tsz Lam Road;
(vii)
Construction of pipelines from the CSTW for
connection to the existing emergency submarine outfall of existing STSTW;
(viii)
Construction of new effluent tunnels and
pipelines for the discharge of treated effluent from the relocated STSTW to
Tolo Harbour Effluent Export Scheme (THEES) tunnel;
(ix)
Associated slope stabilisation and natural
terrain hazard mitigation and geotechnical works;
(x)
Landscaping and architectural works;
(xi)
Construction of a ventilation adit connecting
the CSTW to a ventilation shaft located in Nui Po Shan, together with
a
surface access of around 500m length leading from the end of A Kung Kok
Shan Road;
(xii)
Construction of a temporary project specific
magazine at Nui Po Shan next to the location for the Ventilation Shaft, with access from A Kung Kok Shan Road,
for storage of explosives for up
to a few days¡¦ use for
construction of the CSTW, and decommissioning of it after the completion of blasting
works;
(xiii)
Operation and maintenance of the CSTW; and
(xiv)
Decommissioning and demolition of the existing STSTW.
1.3
Construction
Programme
1.3.1.1
The Project construction works are anticipated
to commence in 2018 with completion of the Project by 2028. A tentative construction programme is
provided in Appendix
A.
1.4.1.1
The purpose of this Environmental Monitoring and
Audit (EM&A) Manual is to guide the setups of an EM&A programme to
ensure compliance with the 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 for the construction and operational phases of the proposed
Project. It aims to provide
systematic procedures for monitoring, auditing and minimising environmental
impacts associated with construction works and operational activities.
1.4.1.2
Hong Kong environmental regulations and the Hong
Kong Planning Standards and Guidelines have served as environmental standards
and guidelines in the preparation of this Manual. In addition, the EM&A Manual has
been prepared in accordance with the requirements stipulated in Annex 21 of the
EIAO-TM.
1.4.1.3
This Manual contains the following information:
¡P
responsibilities of the Contractor, the Engineer
or Engineer¡¦s Representative (ER), Environmental Team (ET) and Independent
Environment Checker (IEC) with respect to the environmental monitoring and
audit requirements during the course of the Project;
¡P
project organisation for the Project;
¡P
the basis for, and description of the broad
approach underlying the EM&A programme;
¡P
requirements with respect to the construction
programme schedule and the necessary environmental monitoring and audit
programme to track the varying environmental impact;
¡P
details of the methodologies to be adopted,
including all field laboratories and analytical procedures, and details on
quality assurance and quality control programme;
¡P
the rationale on which the environmental
monitoring data will be evaluated and interpreted;
¡P
definition of Action and Limit levels;
¡P
establishment of Event and Action plans;
¡P
requirements for reviewing pollution sources and
working procedures required in the event of non-compliance with the
environmental criteria and complaints;
¡P
requirements for presentation of environmental
monitoring and audit data and appropriate reporting procedures; and
¡P
requirements for review of EIA predictions and
the effectiveness of the mitigation measures / environmental management systems
and the EM&A programme.
1.4.1.4
For the purpose of this manual, the ET leader,
who shall be responsible for and in charge of the ET, shall refer to the person
delegated the role of executing the EM&A requirements.
1.5.1.1
The roles and responsibilities of the various
parties involved in the EM&A process and the organisational structure of
the organisations responsible for implementing the EM&A programme are
outlined below. The proposed project organisation and lines of communication
with respect to environmental protection works are shown in Figure
No. 60334056/EM&A/1.02.
The
Contractor
1.5.1.2
The Contractor shall report to the Engineer. The
duties and responsibilities of the Contractor are:
¡P
implement the recommendations and requirements
of the EIA study;
¡P
provide assistance to ET in carrying out
monitoring;
¡P
submit proposals on mitigation measures in case
of exceedances of Action and Limit levels in accordance with the Event and
Action Plans;
¡P
implement measures to reduce impact where Action
and Limit levels are exceeded until the events are resolved;
¡P
implement the corrective actions instructed by
the Engineer;
¡P
accompany joint site inspection undertaken by
the ET; and
¡P
adhere to the procedures for carrying out
complaint investigation.
Environmental
Team (ET)
1.5.1.3
The ET Leader and the ET shall be employed to
conduct the EM&A programme and ensure the Contractor¡¦s compliance with the
project¡¦s environmental performance requirements during construction. The ET
Leader shall be an independent party from the Contractor and have relevant
professional qualifications, or have sufficient relevant EM&A experience
subject to approval of the ER and the Environmental Protection Department
(EPD). The ET shall be led and managed by the ET leader. The ET leader shall
possess at least 10 years experience in EM&A and/or environmental
management.
1.5.1.4
The duties and responsibilities of the ET are:
¡P
monitor various environmental parameters as
required in this EM&A Manual;
¡P
analyse the environmental monitoring and audit data
and review the success of EM&A programme to cost-effectively confirm the
adequacy of mitigation measures implemented and the validity of the EIA
predictions and to identify any adverse environmental impacts arising;
¡P
carry out regular site inspection to investigate
and audit the Contractors' site practice, equipment and work methodologies with
respect to pollution control and environmental mitigation, and effect proactive
action to pre-empt problems; carry out ad hoc site inspections if significant
environmental problems are identified;
¡P
audit and prepare monitoring and audit reports
on the environmental monitoring data and site environmental conditions;
¡P
report on the environmental monitoring and audit
results to the IEC, Contractor, the ER and EPD or its delegated representative;
¡P
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;
¡P
advice to the Contractor on environmental
improvement, awareness, enhancement matters, etc. on site;
¡P
timely submission of the EM&A report to the
Project Proponent and the EPD; and
¡P
adhere to the procedures for carrying out
complaint investigation in accordance with Section 13 of
this Manual.
Engineer or Engineer¡¦s Representative
(ER)
1.5.1.5
The Engineer is responsible for overseeing the
construction works and for ensuring that the works undertaken by the Contractor
in accordance with the specification and contractual requirements. The duties
and responsibilities of the Engineer with respect to EM&A may include:
¡P
supervise the Contractor¡¦s activities and ensure
that the requirements in the EM&A Manual are fully complied with;
¡P
inform the Contractor when action is required to
reduce impacts in accordance with the Event and Action Plans;
¡P
participate in joint site inspection undertaken
by the ET; and
¡P
adhere to the procedures for carrying out
complaint investigation.
¡P
The Engineer may delegate some of his power to
the ER, who is his representative on site, in order to meet the site
supervision needs.
Independent Environmental Checker (IEC)
1.5.1.6
The IEC shall be an independent party from the
Contractor and the ET and
possess at least 10 years¡¦ experience in EM&A and/or environmental
management.
1.5.1.7
The duties and responsibilities of the IEC are:
¡P
review the EM&A works performed by the ET
(at least at monthly intervals);
¡P
carry out random sample check and audit the
monitoring activities and results (at least at monthly intervals);
¡P
conduct random site inspection;
¡P
review the EM&A reports submitted by the ET;
¡P
review the effectiveness of environmental
mitigation measures and project environmental performance;
¡P
review the proposal on mitigation measures
submitted by the Contractor in accordance with the Event and Action Plans;
¡P
check the mitigation measures that have been
recommended in the EIA and this Manual, and ensure they are properly
implemented in a timely manner, when necessary; and
¡P
adhere to the procedures for carrying out
complaint investigation.
1.5.1.8
Sufficient and suitably qualified professional
and technical staff shall be employed by the respective parties to ensure full
compliance with their duties and responsibilities, as required under the
EM&A programme for the duration of the Project.
2.1.1.1
In this section, the requirements, methodology,
equipment, monitoring locations, criteria and protocols for the monitoring and
audit of air quality impact during the construction phase and operation phase
of the Project are presented. Dust
monitoring is proposed to be conducted during construction phase; while odour
monitoring in terms of hydrogen sulphide (H2S) is recommended to be
conducted at the deodorizing units in the first three years upon commissioning
of CSTW to determine whether it can meet the odour removal performance
requirement. In addition to the H2S monitoring, Odour Complaint
Registration System is also introduced in the EM&A Programme. The system is
meaningful to ascertain whether the Air Sensitive Receivers (ASRs) experience
odour nuisance as a result of emissions from CSTW.
2.1.1.2
The objectives of the air quality monitoring
shall be:
¡P
to identify the extent of construction dust
impact on sensitive receivers;
¡P
to determine the effectiveness of mitigation measures
to control fugitive dust emission from activities during the construction
phase;
¡P
to audit the compliance of the Contractor with
regard to dust control, contract conditions and the relevant dust impact
criteria;
¡P
to recommend further mitigation measures if
found to be necessary;
¡P
to comply with Action and Limit (A/L) Levels for
air quality as defined in this Manual; and;
¡P
to set up an odour complaint registration system
to handle odour complaints due to CSTW.
2.2.1.1
The major construction activities of the Project
would likely be demolition of existing structures, drill & blasts for
caverns and access tunnels by excavation and rock crushing, construction of
temporary haul road/access road/explosive compound structures which would
generate insignificant amount of small size particulates, hence, no significant
Respirable Suspended Particulates (RSP) or Fine Suspended Particulates (FSP)
impacts would be anticipated. Monitoring of 24-hour RSP and 24-hour FSP levels
are not proposed. Therefore, only 1-hour Total Suspended Particulates (TSP) is
recommended to be monitored and audited at the proposed monitoring locations.
2.2.1.2
The criteria against which ambient air quality
monitoring to be assessed are:
¡P
1-hour TSP limit of 500 µg m-3
2.2.1.3
This level is not to be exceeded at ASRs.
2.2.1.4
Monitoring and audit of the TSP levels shall be
carried out by the ET to ensure that any deteriorating air quality could be
readily detected and timely action shall be undertaken to rectify such situation.
2.2.1.5
1-hour TSP levels should be measured to indicate
the impacts of construction dust on air quality. The TSP levels should be measured by
following the standard method as set out in High Volume Sampling Method for
Total Suspended Particulates, Part 50 Chapter 1 Appendix B, Title 40 of the
Code of Federal Regulations of the US Environmental Protection Agency
(USEPA) (hereinafter referred to as ¡§High Volume Sampler (HVS) method¡¨). Upon approval of EPD and IEC, an
alternative sampling method of using direct reading methods which are capable
of producing comparable results as that by the high volume sampling method can
be used to indicate short event impacts.
2.2.1.6
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 local atmospheric
factors affecting or affected by site conditions and work progress of the
concerned site etc. shall be recorded in details. A sample data record sheet is
shown in Appendix B.
2.2.2.1
HVS in compliance with the following
specifications shall be used for carrying out the 1-hour TSP monitoring:
¡P
0.6 - 1.7 m3 per minute (20 - 60
standard cubic feet per minute) adjustable flow range;
¡P
equipped with a timing / control device with ¡Ó 5
minutes accuracy for 24 hours operation;
¡P
installed with elapsed-time meter with ¡Ó 2
minutes accuracy for 24 hours operation;
¡P
capable of providing a minimum exposed area of
406 cm2 ;
¡P
flow control accuracy: ¡Ó 2.5% deviation over
24-hour sampling period;
¡P
equipped with a shelter to protect the filter
and sampler;
¡P
incorporated with an electronic mass flow rate
controller or other equivalent devices;
¡P
equipped with a flow recorder for continuous
monitoring;
¡P
provided with a peaked roof inlet;
¡P
incorporated with a manometer;
¡P
able to hold and seal the filter paper to the
sampler housing at horizontal position;
¡P
easy to change the filter; and
¡P
capable of operating continuously for 24-hour
period.
2.2.2.2
The ET shall be responsible for the provision of
the monitoring equipment. He shall ensure that sufficient number of HVSs with
appropriate calibration kit is available for carrying out the baseline, regular
impacts monitoring and ad-hoc monitoring. The HVSs shall be equipped with an
electronic mass flow controller and be calibrated against a traceable standard
at regular intervals, in accordance with requirements stated in the
manufacturers operating manual. All
the equipment, calibration kit, filter papers, etc, shall be clearly labelled. If
direct reading dust meters is proposed to be used, the ET Leader should submit
sufficient information to the IEC to prove that the instrument is capable of
achieving a comparable result as that the HVS may be used for the 1-hour
sampling. The instrument should
also be calibrated regularly.
2.2.2.3
Initial calibration of the dust monitoring
equipment shall be conducted upon installation and prior to commissioning at
bi-monthly intervals. The transfer standard shall be traceable to the
internationally recognised primary standard and be calibrated annually. The
calibration data shall be properly documented for future reference by the
concerned parties such as the IEC. All the data shall be converted into
standard temperature and pressure condition.
2.2.2.4
The flow-rate of the sampler before and after
the sampling exercise with the filter in position shall be verified to be
constant and be recorded on the data sheet as shown in Appendix B.
2.2.2.5
If the ET Leader proposes to use a direct
reading dust meter to measure 1-hour TSP levels, he shall submit sufficient information
to the IEC to prove that the instrument is capable of achieving a comparable
result as that of the HVS before it may be used for the 1-hour sampling. The
instrument shall also be calibrated regularly, and the 1-hour sampling shall be
determined periodically by HVS to check the validity and accuracy of the
results measured by direct reading method.
2.2.2.6
Wind data monitoring equipment shall also be
provided and set up at conspicuous locations for logging wind speed and wind
direction near to the dust monitoring locations. The equipment installation
location shall be proposed by the ET and agreed with the ER and the IEC. For
installation and operation of wind data monitoring equipment, the following
points shall be observed:
¡P
The wind sensors shall be installed on masts at
an elevated level 10m above ground so that they are clear of obstructions or
turbulence caused by the buildings;
¡P
The wind data shall be captured by a data
logger. The data recorded in the data logger shall be downloaded periodically
for analysis at least once a month;
¡P
The wind data monitoring equipment shall be
re-calibrated at least once every six months; and
¡P
Wind direction should be divided into 16 sectors
of 22.5 degrees each.
2.2.2.7
In exceptional situations, the ET may propose
alternative methods to obtain representative wind data upon approval from the
ER and agreement from the IEC.
2.2.3.1
A clean laboratory with constant temperature and
humidity control and equipped with necessary measuring and conditioning instruments
to handle the dust samples collected, shall be available for sample analysis,
and equipment calibration and maintenance. The laboratory shall be the Hong
Kong Laboratory Accreditation Scheme (HOKLAS) accredited or other
internationally accredited laboratory.
2.2.3.2
If a site laboratory is set up or a non-HOKLAS
accredited laboratory is hired for carrying out the laboratory analysis, the
laboratory equipment shall be verified by the IEC and approved by the ER.
Measurement performed by the laboratory shall be demonstrated to the
satisfaction of the ER and the IEC.
2.2.3.3
The IEC shall conduct regular audit of the
measurement performed by the laboratory so as to ensure the accuracy of
measurement results. The ET shall provide the ER with one copy of the Title 40 of
the Code of Federal Regulations, Chapter 1 (Part 50), Appendix B for his/her
reference.
2.2.3.4
Filter paper of size 8"x10" shall be
labelled before sampling. It shall be a clean filter paper with no pinholes,
and shall be conditioned in a humidity-controlled chamber for over 24-hour and
be pre-weighed before use for the sampling.
2.2.3.5
After sampling, the filter paper loaded with
dust shall be kept in a clean and tightly sealed plastic bag. The filter paper
shall then be returned to the laboratory for reconditioning in the
humidity-controlled chamber followed by accurate weighing by an electronic
balance with a readout down to 0.1mg. The balance shall be regularly calibrated
against a traceable standard.
2.2.3.6
All the collected samples shall be kept in a
good condition for 6 months before disposal.
2.2.4.1
The dust monitoring locations will be determined
when the engineering details for the dust modelling is available. The selected
monitoring locations are the worst potentially affected air sensitive receivers
located in the vicinity of construction sites of the Project. The proposed air
quality monitoring locations are listed in Table 2.1
below and shown in Figure
No. 60334056/EM&A/2.01.
Table 2.1 Proposed
Air Quality Monitoring Stations
|
Monitoring
Station ID
|
EIA ID
|
Location
|
|
Construction Phase
|
|
AM1
|
ASR8
|
Ah Kung Kok Fishermen Village
|
|
AM2
|
ASR6
|
Block H, Kam Tai Court
|
|
AM3
|
ASR4
|
Ma On Shan Tsung Tsin Secondary
School
|
|
AM4
|
ASR2
|
Wellborn Kindergarten
|
|
AM5
|
ASR12
|
The Neighbourhood Advice-Action
Council Harmony Manor
|
|
AM6
|
ASR21
|
Seaview Villa
|
2.2.4.2
The status and locations of the air quality
sensitive receivers may change after issuing this Manual. In such case, the ET
shall propose updated monitoring locations and seek approval from ER and IEC
and agreement from EPD on the proposal.
2.2.4.3
When alternative monitoring locations are
proposed, the following criteria, as far as practicable, shall be followed:
i.
at the site boundary or such locations close to
the major dust emission source;
ii.
close to the air sensitive receivers as defined
in the EIAO-TM;
iii.
proper position/sitting and orientation of the
monitoring equipment; and
iv.
take into account the prevailing meteorological
conditions.
2.2.4.4
The ET shall agree with the IEC on the position
of the HVS for installation of the monitoring equipment. When positioning the
samplers, the following points shall be noted:
i.
a horizontal platform with appropriate support
to secure the samplers against gusty wind shall be provided;
ii.
two samplers shall be placed less than 2 meter
apart;
iii.
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;
iv.
a minimum of 2 metres of separation from walls,
parapets and penthouses is required for rooftop samplers;
v.
a minimum of 2 metres of separation from any
supporting structure, measured horizontally is required;
vi.
no furnace or incinerator flue is nearby;
vii. airflow
around the sampler is unrestricted;
viii. the
sampler is more than 20 metres from the dripline;
ix.
any wire fence and gate, to protect the sampler,
shall not cause any obstruction during monitoring;
x.
permission must be obtained to set up the
samplers and to obtain access to the monitoring stations; and
xi.
a secured supply of electricity is needed to
operate the samplers.
2.2.5.1
Baseline monitoring shall be carried out to
determine the ambient 1-hour TSP levels at the monitoring locations prior to
the commencement of the Project. During the baseline monitoring, there shall
not be any construction or dust generating activities in the vicinity of the
monitoring stations. The baseline monitoring will provide data for the
determination of the appropriate Action levels (ALs) with the Limit levels
(LLs) set against statutory or otherwise agreed limits.
2.2.5.2
Before commencing the baseline monitoring, the
ET shall inform the IEC of the baseline monitoring programme such that the IEC
can conduct on-site audit to ensure accuracy of the baseline monitoring
results.
2.2.5.3
TSP baseline monitoring should be carried out at
all of the designated monitoring locations for at least 14 consecutive days
prior to the commissioning of the construction works. 1-hour TSP sampling shall
be done at least three times per day at each monitoring station when the
highest dust impacts are expected. During the baseline monitoring, there should
not be any construction or dust generating activities in the vicinity of the
monitoring stations. General meteorological conditions (wind speed, direction
and precipitation) and notes regarding any significant adjacent dust producing
sources should also be recorded throughout the baseline monitoring period. A
summary of baseline monitoring is presented in Table 2.2.
2.2.5.4
In case the baseline monitoring cannot be
carried out at the designated monitoring locations during the baseline
monitoring period, the ET Leader shall carry out the monitoring at alternative
locations which can effectively represent the baseline conditions at the impact
monitoring locations. The alternative baseline monitoring location shall be
approved by the ER and agreed with IEC.
2.2.5.5
In exceptional cases, when insufficient baseline
monitoring data or questionable results are obtained, the ET Leader shall
liaise with the IEC and EPD to agree on an appropriate set of data to be used
as a baseline reference and submit to ER for approval.
2.2.5.6
If the ET Leader 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 (BLs). The revised
baseline levels, in turn, the air quality criteria, shall be agreed with the
IEC and EPD.
2.2.6.1
The ET shall carry out impact monitoring during
construction phase of the Project. For 1-hour TSP monitoring, the sampling
frequency of at least three times in every six-days should be undertaken when
the highest dust impact occurs. In case of non-compliance with the air
criteria, more frequent monitoring, as specified in the Action Plan in the
following section, should be conducted. This additional monitoring should be
continued until the excessive dust emission or the deterioration in the air
quality is rectified. The impact monitoring programme is summarised in Table 2.2.
2.2.6.2
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. Before commencing the impact
monitoring, the ET shall inform the IEC of the impact monitoring programme such
that the IEC can conduct on-site audit to ensure accuracy of the impact
monitoring results.
Table 2.2 Summary of
Construction Dust Monitoring Programme
2.2.7
Event and Action
Plan
2.2.7.1
The baseline monitoring results form the basis
for determining the air quality criteria for the impact monitoring. The ET
shall compare the impact monitoring results with air quality criteria set up
for 1-hour TSP. Table 2.3 shows the air quality
criteria, namely Action and Limit levels to be used. Should non-compliance of
the air quality criteria occur, action in accordance with the Action Plan in
Table 2.4 shall be carried out.
Table 2.3 Action and Limit
Levels for Air Quality (Dust)
|
Parameter
|
Action Level (1)
|
Limit Level
|
|
TSP (1 hour average)
|
BL <= 384 µgm-3, AL = (BL * 1.3 + LL)/2
BL > 384 µgm-3, AL = LL
|
500 µgm-3
|
Note: (1) BL = Baseline
level, AL = Action level, LL = Limit level.
Table 2.4 Event
and Action Plan for Air Quality (Dust)
|
Event
|
Action
|
|
ET
|
IEC
|
ER
|
Contractor
|
|
Action level being exceeded by one sampling
|
1. Identify source, investigate the
causes of complaint and propose remedial measures;
2. Inform Contractor, IEC and ER;
3. Repeat measurement to confirm
finding; and
4. Increase monitoring frequency to
daily.
|
1. Check monitoring data submitted by
ET;
2. Check Contractor¡¦s working method;
and
3. Review and advise the ET and ER on
the effectiveness of the proposed remedial measures.
|
1. Notify Contractor.
|
1. Identify source(s), investigate the
causes of exceedance and propose remedial measures;
2. Implement remedial measures; and
3. Amend working methods agreed with
the ER as appropriate.
|
|
Action level being exceeded by two or more consecutive
sampling
|
1. Identify source;
2. Inform Contractor, IEC and ER;
3. Advise the Contractor and ER 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 Contractor, IEC and ER; and
8. If exceedance stops, cease
additional monitoring.
|
1. Check monitoring data submitted by
ET;
2. Check Contractor¡¦s working method;
3. Discuss with ET, ER and Contractor
on possible remedial measures;
4. Advise the ET and ER on the
effectiveness of the proposed remedial measures; and
5. Supervise Implementation of remedial
measures.
|
1. Confirm receipt of notification of
exceedance in writing;
2. Notify Contractor;
3. Ensure remedial measures properly
implemented; and
4. 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. Identify source and investigate the
causes of exceedance;
2. Submit proposals for remedial
measures to the ER with a copy to ET and IEC within three working days of
notification;
3. Implement the agreed proposals; and
4. Amend proposal as appropriate.
|
|
Limit level being exceeded by one sampling
|
1. Identify source, investigate the
causes of exceedance and propose remedial measures;
2. Inform Contractor, IEC, ER, and EPD;
3. Repeat measurement to confirm
finding;
4. Increase monitoring frequency to
daily; and
5. Assess effectiveness of Contractor¡¦s
remedial actions and keep IEC, EPD and ER 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 ER on the effectiveness
of the proposed remedial measures; and
5. Supervise implementation of remedial
measures.
|
1. Confirm receipt of notification of
exceedance in writing;
2. Notify Contractor;
3. Ensure remedial measures properly
implemented.
|
1. Identify source(s) and investigate
the causes of exceedance;
2. Take immediate action to avoid
further exceedance;
3. Submit proposals for remedial
measures to ER with a copy to ET and IEC within three working days of
notification;
4. Implement the agreed proposals; and
5. Amend proposal if appropriate.
|
|
Limit level being exceeded by two or more consecutive
sampling
|
1. Notify IEC, ER, 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 ER to
discuss the remedial actions to be taken;
7. Assess effectiveness of Contractor¡¦s
remedial actions and keep IEC, EPD and ER informed of the results; and
8. If exceedance stops, cease
additional monitoring.
|
1. Check monitoring data submitted by
the ET;
2. Discuss amongst ER, ET, and
Contractor on the potential remedial actions;
3. Review Contractor¡¦s remedial actions
whenever necessary to assure their effectiveness and advise the ER
accordingly; and
4. Supervise the implementation of
remedial measures.
|
1. Confirm receipt of notification of
exceedance in writing;
2. In consultation with the ET and IEC,
agree with the Contractor on the remedial measures to be implemented;
3. Supervise the implementation of
remedial measures; and
4. 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. Identify source(s) and investigate
the causes of exceedance;
2. Take immediate action to avoid
further exceedance;
3. Submit proposals for remedial
measures to the ER with a copy to the IEC and ET within three working days of
notification;
4. Implement the agreed proposals;
5. Revise and resubmit proposals if
problem still not under control; and
6. Stop the relevant portion of works
as determined by the ER until the exceedance is abated.
|
2.3.1.1
The odour impact monitoring (in term of H2S
concentration) at the inlets and outlets of the deodourizing units shall be
conducted by H2S sensor quarterly in the first three years upon commissioning
of CSTW to determine whether the odour removal efficiency meet the requirements
as stated in the EIA Report. The
first odour monitoring shall be conducted within one month, after the operation
of the CSTW. Subsequent odour monitoring shall be conducted quarterly,
i,e. at the 4th, 7th and 10th month for the first year. For the second
and third years, the frequency of the impact monitoring could be reduced to
once every 6 months subject to EPD¡¦s approval, if the monitoring results remain
below the limit levels.
2.3.2
Odour
Complaint Registration
2.3.2.1
In the event when an odour complaint is received
at the CSTW, the operator shall liaise with the complainant and a Complaint
Registration Form shall be completed.
The Complaint Registration Form is to record detailed information
regarding the odour complaint and hence, facilitates efficient investigation
work. The registration form shall
contain, but not be limited to the following information:
¡P
Location of where the odour nuisance occurred,
including whether the odour was experienced indoors or outdoors;
¡P
Date and time of the complaint and the nuisance
event;
¡P
Description of the complaint, i.e. the type and
characteristics of the odour; and an indication of the odour strength (highly
offensive / offensive / slightly offensive / just continuously detectable
/intermittently detectable); and
¡P
Name and contact information of the complainant.
2.3.2.2
This information shall be obtained by the plant
engineer or his representative(s) of the CSTW when the complaint is received. The
Complaint Registration Form is shown in Appendix
E for reference.
2.3.2.3
In addition, the following information shall be
obtained:
¡P
Meteorological conditions from the Hong Kong
Observatory¡¦s Shatin Racecourse Weather Station (including temperature, wind
speed, relative humidity) at the time of the complaint; and
¡P
Whether any abnormal operations were being
carried out at the CSTW at the time the nuisance occurred.
2.3.2.4
The Odour Complaint Register shall be kept at
the CSTW.
2.3.3.1
Table
2.5 shows the air quality
criteria, namely Action and Limit levels to be used. Should non-compliance of the air quality
criteria occur, action in accordance with the Action Plan in Table 2.6 shall be carried out.
Table 2.5 Action
and Limit Levels for Air Quality (Odour)
|
Parameter
|
Action
Level
|
Limit
Level
|
|
H2S
|
-
|
Less than the proposed odour removal efficiency as stated in
the EIA Report
|
|
Odour
Complaints
|
Any incidence of odour complaint received through the Odour
Complaint Register
|
Two or more
complaints through the Odour Complaint Register within three months
|
Table 2.6 Event
and Action Plan for Air Quality (Odour)
|
EVENT
|
ACTION
|
|
CSTW Engineer-in-charge of Odour Monitoring
|
DSD Sewage Treatment Division 1 (ST1)
|
DSD Sewerage Projects Division (SP) / Electrical
and Mechanica l Projects Division (E&MP)
|
|
ACTION LEVEL
|
|
Receipt of any odour complaint
|
1. Identify source/reason of odour complaints;
|
1. Carry out investigation to identify the
source/reason of complaints. Investigation shall be completed within 1 week;
2. Rectify any unacceptable practice;
3. Amend working methods if required;
4. Inform DSD SP/E&MP if cause of
complaint is considered to be caused by civil or E&M design problems;
5. Correspond to the complainant within
10 days to inform the cause of the nuisance and action taken; and
6. Implement amended working methods.
|
1. Assist ST1 to find the root cause of
the complaint ; and
2. Modify or improve design as
appropriate.
|
|
LIMIT LEVEL
|
|
Exceedance of Limit level or receipt of two
or more complaints in 3 months
|
1. Identify source / reason of
non-compliance or odour complaints;
2. Repeat measurements to confirm
findings;
3. Increase monitoring frequency to
monthly;
4. If non-compliance stops, cease additional
monitoring.
|
1. Carry
out investigation to identify the source/reason of non-compliance or
complaints. Investigation shall be completed within 1 week;
2. Rectify
any unacceptable practice;
3. Amended
working methods if required;
4. Notify
DSD SP / E&MP;
5. Formulate
remedial actions;
6. Ensure
amended working methods and remedial actions properly implemented;
7. If
non-compliance continues, consider what portion of the work is responsible
and stop that portion of the work until the non-compliance is abated; and
8. Correspond
to the complainant within 10 days to inform the cause of the nuisance and
action taken.
|
1. Assist
ST1 to find the root cause of the complaint or non-compliance;
2. Modify
or improve design as appropriate; and
3. Formulate
remedial actions in association with ST1.
|
2.4.1.1
Mitigation measures for dust control have been
recommended in the EIA Report. The Contractor shall be responsible for the design
and implementation of these measures.
2.4.1.2
Recommended mitigation measures to minimise the
adverse impacts on air quality during construction phases are detailed in Section 2.4.1.3 below:
¡P
The rock crushing plant is in enclosed structure
with dust collector. Dust collector
would be installed at the exhaust of the rock crusher to achieve a dust removal
efficiency of 99%. Vehicles would
be required to pass through the wheel washing facilities provided at site exit.
¡P
Watering eight times a day on active works
areas, exposed areas so as to achieve a dust removal efficiency of 87.5%;
¡P
Use of regular watering to reduce dust emissions
from exposed site surfaces and unpaved roads, particularly during dry weather.
¡P
Use of frequent watering for particularly dusty
construction areas and areas close to ASRs.
¡P
Side enclosure and covering of any aggregate or
dusty material storage piles to reduce emissions. Where this is not practicable owing to
frequent usage, watering shall be applied to aggregate fines.
¡P
Open stockpiles shall be avoided or
covered. Where possible, prevent
placing dusty material storage piles near ASRs.
¡P
Tarpaulin covering of all dusty vehicle loads
transported to, from and between site locations.
¡P
Establishment and use of vehicle wheel and body
washing facilities at the exit points of the site.
¡P
Provision of wind shield and dust extraction
units or similar dust mitigation measures at the loading area of barging point,
and use of water sprinklers at the loading area where dust generation is likely
during the loading process of loose material, particularly in dry seasons/
periods.
¡P
Provision of not less than 2.4m high hoarding
from ground level along site boundary where adjoins roads, streets or other
accessible to the public except for a site entrance or exit.
¡P
Imposition of speed controls for vehicles on
site haul roads.
¡P
Where possible, routing of vehicles and positioning
of construction plant should be at the maximum possible distance from ASRs.
¡P
Every stock of more than 20 bags of cement or
dry pulverised fuel ash (PFA) should be covered entirely by impervious sheeting
or placed in an area sheltered on the top and the 3 sides.
¡P
Instigation of an EM&A program to monitor
the construction process in order to enforce controls and modify method of work
if dusty conditions arise.
2.4.2.1
In
response to the public concern on the potential odour impact during operation
of the relocated STSTW, the following appropriate odour control measures would be implemented.
(i)
Adopting the advantage of caverns as natural
barriers for odour control;
(ii)
Covering up of odour sources;
(iii) Preventing
odour leakage through the access tunnels by applying negative pressure inside
caverns;
(iv) Installing
deodourizing units to
clean up the collected foul air;
(v)
Discharging exhausted air at height to further
enhance the dilution effect; and
(vi) Enhancing
the odour management of the sludge transportation.
2.4.2.2
The
ventilation shaft for the
relocated STSTW would be
sit at a remote location on the hill. The odour emission from the ventilation shaft exhaust is to be treated
by deodourizers at 80% - 97% odour removal efficiency (three deodourizers at
97% and one at 80%) before venting to the ambient. The proposed deodourization technologies
include activated carbon and biotrickling filter. Subject to the detailed design, a combination
of both technologies may be utilized for enhanced odour removal
performance. To minimize the
involvement of the handling of chemicals, chemical scrubbers are not
considered.
3.1.1.1
Construction noise impact and operation phase
fixed plant noise impact from this Project are predicted at the identified representative
noise sensitive receivers (NSRs).
3.1.1.2
Construction
noise mitigation measures would be required to reduce noise levels to
the stipulated standard. A noise monitoring and audit programme should be
undertaken to confirm such mitigation measures would be implemented properly.
3.1.1.3
For fixed noise sources, the Contractor should ensure the operation of fixed plant
equipment fulfill the maximum sound power levels adopted in the EIA report,
in order to ensure compliance of the operation airborne noise levels with the
Technical Memorandum (TM)¡¦s stipulated noise standard. No noise monitoring during operational
phase is required.
3.1.1.4
In this section, the requirements, methodology,
equipment, monitoring locations, criteria and protocols for the monitoring and
audit of noise impacts during the construction phase of the Project are
presented.
3.2.1.1
The construction noise levels should be measured
in terms of the 30-minute A-weighted
equivalent continuous sound pressure level (Leq
(30-min)). Leq(30-min)
should be used as the monitoring parameter for the time period between 0700 and
1900 hours on normal weekdays.
3.2.1.2
Supplementary information for data auditing and
statistical results such as L10 and L90 should also be obtained for reference.
Sample noise field data sheets are shown in Appendix B of
this Manual for reference. The ET Leader may modify the data record sheet for
this EM&A programme but the format of which should be agreed by the IEC.
3.3.1.1
As referred to in the TM issued under the Noise
Control Ordinance (NCO), sound level meters in compliance with the
International Electrotechnical Commission Publications 651: 1979 (Type 1) and
804: 1985 (Type 1) specifications shall be used for carrying out the noise
monitoring. Immediately prior to
and following each noise measurement the accuracy of the sound level meter
shall be checked using an acoustic calibrator generating a known sound pressure
level at a known frequency.
Measurements shall be accepted as valid only if the calibration level
from before and after the noise measurement agree to within 1.0 dB.
3.3.1.2
Noise measurements shall not be made in fog,
rain, wind with a steady speed exceeding 5m/s or wind with gusts exceeding
10m/s. The wind speed shall be checked with a portable wind speed meter capable
of measuring the wind speed in m/s.
3.3.1.3
The ET is responsible for the provision of the
monitoring equipment. He shall 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 shall be clearly labelled. The equipment installation location
shall be proposed by the ET Leader and agreed with the ER and EPD in
consultation with the IEC.
3.4.1.1
Figure
No.60334056/EM&A/3.01 show the noise monitoring locations for the
construction phase. The proposed noise monitoring locations are summarised in Table 3.1 and Table 3.2 below.
Table 3.1 Proposed Construction Noise Monitoring
Stations during Construction of Relocated STSTW
|
Station
|
NSR
ID
(Referenced to EIA Report)
|
Location
|
|
CM1
|
NR-C02
|
Wellborn Kindergarten
|
|
CM2
|
NR-C04
|
Ma On Shan Tsung Tsin Secondary School
|
|
CM3
|
|
S.K.H. Ma On Shan Holy Spirit Primary School
|
|
CM4
|
NR-C08
|
Ah Kung Kok Fishermen Village
|
|
CM5
|
NR-C10
|
The Neighbourhood Advice-Action Council Harmony Manor
|
Table 3.2 Proposed Construction Noise Monitoring Stations during Demolition of
Existing STSTW
|
Station
|
NSR
ID
(Referenced to EIA Report)
|
Location
|
|
DM1
|
NR-D01
|
Seaview Villa
|
|
DM2
|
NR-D05
|
Racecourse Gardens
|
|
DM3
|
NR-D07
|
S.K.H. Ma On Shan Holy Spirit Primary School
|
3.4.1.2
The status and locations of noise sensitive receivers
may change after issuing this Manual.
If such cases exist, the ET shall propose updated monitoring locations
and seek approval from the ER and IEC
and agreement from EPD of the proposal.
3.4.1.3
When alternative monitoring locations are
proposed, the monitoring locations shall be chosen based on the following
criteria:
i.
at locations close to the major site activities
which are likely to have noise impacts;
ii.
close to the noise sensitive receivers; and
iii.
for monitoring locations located in the vicinity
of the sensitive receivers, care shall be taken to cause minimal disturbance to
the occupants during monitoring.
3.4.1.4
The construction noise monitoring station shall
normally be at a point 1m from the exterior of the sensitive receivers building
façade and be a position 1.2m above the ground. If there is a problem with
access to the normal monitoring position, an alternative position shall be
chosen, and a correction to the measurements shall be made. For reference, a
correction of +3dB(A) shall be made to the free field measurements. The ET
shall agree with the ER and 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
shall be carried out at the same positions.
3.5.1.1
Baseline noise monitoring shall be carried out
daily in all of the identified monitoring stations for at least 2 weeks prior
to the commissioning of the construction works. A schedule of the baseline monitoring
shall be submitted to the ER for approval before the monitoring starts.
3.5.1.2
During the baseline monitoring, there shall not
be any construction activities in the vicinity of the monitoring stations.
3.5.1.3
In exceptional cases, when insufficient baseline
monitoring data or questionable results are obtained, the ET leader shall
liaise with EPD and in consultation with ER and the IEC to agree on an appropriate set of data to be used as a
baseline reference.
3.6.1.1
Construction noise monitoring should be carried
out at the designated monitoring station when there are Project-related
construction activities being undertaken within a radius of 300m from the
monitoring stations. The monitoring frequency should depend on the scale of the
construction activities. An initial guide on the monitoring is to obtain one
set of 30-minute measurement at each station between 0700 and 1900 hours on
normal weekdays at a frequency of once a week when construction activities are
underway.
3.6.1.2
If construction works are extended to include
works during the hours of 1900 - 0700, additional weekly impact monitoring
shall be carried out during evening and night-time works. Applicable permits under NCO shall be
obtained by the Contractor.
3.6.1.3
In case of non-compliance with the construction
noise criteria, more frequent monitoring, as specified in the Action Plan in Table 3.3 shall be carried out. This additional
monitoring shall be continued until the recorded noise levels are rectified or
proved to be irrelevant to the construction activities.
3.7.1.1
The Action and Limit levels for construction
noise are defined in Table 3.3. Should non-compliance of the criteria
occur, action in accordance with the Action Plan in Table 3.4
shall be carried out.
Table 3.3 Action
and Limit Levels for Construction Noise
|
Time
Period
|
Action
Level
|
Limit
Level
|
|
0700 ¡V 1900 hours
on normal weekdays
|
When one documented complaint is
received
|
75 dB(A)*
|
Notes:
¡P
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.
¡P
* 70 dB(A) and 65
dB(A) for schools during normal teaching periods and school examination
periods, respectively.
Table 3.4 Event
and Action Plan for Construction Noise
|
Event
|
Action
|
|
ET
|
IEC
|
ER
|
Contractor
|
|
Action Level
|
1. Notify
IEC and Contractor;
2. Carry
out investigation;
3. Report
the results of investigation to the IEC, ER and Contractor;
4. Discuss
with the Contractor and formulate remedial measures; and
5. Increase
monitoring frequency to check mitigation effectiveness.
|
1. Review
the analysed results submitted by the ET;
2. Review
the proposed remedial measures by the Contractor and advise the ER
accordingly; and
3. Supervise
the implementation of remedial measures.
|
1. Confirm
receipt of notification of failure in writing;
2. Notify
Contractor;
3. Require
Contractor to propose remedial measures for the analysed noise problem; and
4. Ensure
remedial measures are properly implemented.
|
1. Submit
noise mitigation proposals to IEC; and
2. Implement
noise mitigation proposals.
|
|
Limit Level
|
1. Identify
source;
2. Inform
IEC, ER, EPD and Contractor;
3. Repeat
measurements to confirm findings;
4. Increase
monitoring frequency;
5. Carry
out analysis of Contractor¡¦s working procedures to determine possible
mitigation to be implemented;
6. Inform
IEC, ER and EPD the
causes and actions taken for the exceedances;
7. Assess
effectiveness of Contractor¡¦s remedial actions and keep IEC, EPD and ER informed of
the results; and
8. If
exceedance stops, cease additional monitoring.
|
1. Discuss
amongst ER, ET, and Contractor on the potential remedial actions;
2. Review
Contractors remedial actions whenever necessary to assure their effectiveness
and advise the ER accordingly; and
3. Supervise
the implementation of remedial measures.
|
1.
Confirm receipt of notification of failure in
writing;
2.
Notify Contractor;
3.
Require Contractor to propose remedial measures
for the analysed noise problem;
4.
Ensure remedial measures properly implemented;
and
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 3 working days of notification;
3. Implement
the agreed proposals;
4. Resubmit
proposals if problem still not under control; and
5. Stop
the relevant portion of works as determined by the ER until the exceedance is
abated.
|
3.8.1.1
To alleviate the construction noise impact on
the affected NSRs, adoption of quiet Powered Mechanical Equipment (PME),
adoption of movable noise barriers for particular items of plant and
construction works adoption of acoustic mats for Drilling Jumbo, limitation of
the number of on-time operating PME within 120m of the Neighbourhood
Advice-Action Council Harmony Manor during construction of access road are
proposed. It is anticipated that a movable noise barrier with a cantilevered
upper portion located within 5m from any static or mobile plant can provide 5
dB(A) noise reduction for mobile plant and 10 dB(A) noise reduction for static
plant. The barrier material shall have a surface mass of not less than 14 kg/m2
on skid footing with 25mm thick internal sound absorptive lining to achieve the
maximum screening effect. The
acoustic mats should have at least 10 dB(A) in noise attenuation.
3.8.1.2
In addition, the good site practices listed
below should be adopted by all the Contractors to further ameliorate the noise
impacts.
¡P
Only well-maintained plant should be operated
on-site and plant should be serviced regularly during the construction program.
¡P
Silencers or mufflers on construction equipment
should be utilised and should be properly maintained during the construction
program.
¡P
Mobile plant, if any, should be sited as far
away from NSRs as possible.
¡P
Machines and plant (such as trucks) that may be
in intermittent use should be shut down between works periods or should be
throttled down to a minimum.
¡P
Plant known to emit noise strongly in one
direction should, wherever possible, be orientated so that the noise is
directed away from the nearby NSRs.
¡P
Material stockpiles and other structures should
be effectively utilised, wherever practicable, in screening noise from on-site
construction activities.
3.8.1.3
If the above measures are not sufficient to restore
the construction noise quality to acceptable levels upon the advice of ET
Leader, the Contractor shall liaise with the ET Leader to identify further
mitigation measures. They shall be
proposed to ER for approval, and the contractor shall then implement these
additional mitigation measures.
3.8.1.4
The implementation schedule for the recommended
mitigation measures is presented in Appendix C.
3.8.2.1
The maximum allowable sound power levels for the
chillers at the top of excavated materials, ventilation shaft and ventilation
buildings at main portal and secondary portal as presented in Table
4.17 of the EIA Report should be achieved such that the nearest
NSRs can be in compliance with the noise criteria.
3.8.2.2
Prior to the operational phase of the Project, a
commissioning test for the ventilation buildings, the ventilation shaft,
ventilation fan for chiller plant room at administration building and cooling
tower at the administration building would be conducted to ensure compliance
with the relevant allowable maximum sound power levels.
3.8.2.3
The implementation schedule for the recommended
mitigation measures is presented in Appendix C.
4.1.1.1
Both the existing Tai Po Sewage Treatment Works
(TPSTW) and the existing STSTW are secondary treatment plants with disinfection
process. Under the normal operation of the THEES, the secondarily treated and
disinfected sewage effluent from STSTW, together with the secondarily treated
and disinfected effluent of TPSTW, which is pumped from the Tai Po Effluent
Pumping Station (TPEPS) to the Sha Tin Effluent Pumping Station (STEPS), is
pumped up to THEES portal at A Kung Kok and then flow to Kai Tak Nullah (KTN)
(or called Kai Tak River after completion of reconstruction and upgrading
works) by gravity for discharge into Victoria Harbour. The CSTW will maintain
the current arrangement in discharging effluent to KTN through the existing
THEES tunnel.
4.1.1.2
During the construction phase, the key water
quality impact identified in the EIA study would be associated with the
land-based construction. Impacts may result from the surface runoff, accidental
spillage, sewage from on-site construction workers and groundwater
infiltration. Mitigation measures
have been recommended to control the water quality impacts from the land-based
construction activities. . Marine
water quality monitoring is not required for the construction of the Project.
It is however recommended that regular site inspections during the construction
phase should be undertaken to inspect the construction activities and works
areas in order to ensure the recommended mitigation measures are properly
implemented.
4.1.1.3
On the other hand, THEES is currently in
operation. Maintenance of the THEES tunnel would be conducted when necessary
under the existing practice to ensure proper functioning and integrity of the
tunnel. During the inspection or
maintenance of the THEES tunnel, temporary suspension of the normal THEES
operation with effluent bypass into the Tolo Harbour is unavoidable to provide
a safe and dry zone within the THEES tunnel for the necessary inspection /
maintenance works. Hence, marine water quality monitoring is recommended for
the THEES maintenance events which could occur during both construction and
operational phases of this Project.
Moreover, there is possibility of failure of power supply, treatment
units or equipment under the Project operation, therefore marine water quality
monitoring is also recommended in case of any emergency discharge events during
the operational phase of this Project.
4.1.1.4
Under normal operation of THEES, the effluent from
the CSTW and TPSTW would be transported to the Victoria Harbour for discharge
into the KTN. Thus, water quality
monitoring is also proposed at KTN after the commissioning of this Project to
verify whether there is any adverse water quality impact at KTN as compared to
that before the implementation of this Project.
4.1.1.5
Monitoring of the treated effluent quality from
the CSTW will be governed by the Water Pollution Control Ordinance (WPCO)
license to ensure that the effluent quality would comply with the design
standards, which is under the ambit of regional office (RO) of EPD.
4.1.1.6
In this section, the requirements for the
monitoring and audit of water quality impacts arising from the Project are
presented.
4.3.1.1
Under THEES maintenance or emergency discharge
events, effluent would be discharged into the Tolo Harbour from the existing
emergency outfalls of STSTW and TPSTW as shown in Figure
No. 60334056/EM&A/4.01.
4.3.1.2
It is recommended to set up 13 monitoring
stations within the Tolo Harbour as listed in Table 4.1
below. 12 impact stations are set
up at the WSD flushing water intakes at Sha Tin (W1) and Tai Po (W2), cooling
water intake at Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) Marine Science
Laboratory (C1), Yim Tin Tsai Fish Culture Zone (FCZ) (F1), Yim Tin Tsai (East) FCZ (F2), Yung Shue Au FCZ and Important Nursery Area for
Commercial Fisheries Resources at Three Fathoms Cove (F3), Lo Fu Wat FCZ (F4), Subzone of Yim Tin Tsai FCZ
(G1), corals at Tai Po Industrial Estate
(CR1), Science Park (CR15), Sha Tin Hoi North
(CR16) and Sha Tin Hoi South (CR17) respectively as shown in Figure
No. 60334056/EM&A/4.01 to represent the marine water
sensitive receivers, which are likely affected by the Project during the THEES
maintenance or emergency discharge.
4.3.1.3
Station G1 (Subzone of Yim Tin Tsai Fish Culture
Zone) is also proposed as a gradient station to assist in the identification of
the source of any impact at monitoring station F1. Station CR9 is far away from the Project
discharge points and would unlikely be affected by the Project and will
therefore serve as a control station.
4.3.1.4
The coordinates of the proposed monitoring
stations are listed in Table 4.1.
Table 4.1 Proposed
Marine Water Quality Monitoring Stations
|
Station
|
Description
|
Easting
|
Northing
|
|
W1
|
WSD Seawater Intake at Sha Tin
|
840238
|
830127
|
|
W2
|
WSD Seawater Intake at Tai Po
|
837753
|
834606
|
|
C1
|
Cooling Water Intake at CUHK Marine Science Laboratory
|
840142
|
831908
|
|
F1
|
Yim Tin Tsai Fish Culture Zone
|
839387
|
834907
|
|
F2
|
Yim Tin Tsai (East) Fish Culture Zone
|
840885
|
835077
|
|
F3
|
Yung Shue Au Fish Culture Zone / Important
Nursery Area for Commercial Fisheries Resources at Three Fathoms Cove
|
846778
|
832054
|
|
F4
|
Lo Fu Wat Fish Culture Zone
|
846364
|
836709
|
|
CR1
|
Corals at Tai Po Industrial Estate
|
837888
|
834489
|
|
CR15
|
Corals at Science Park
|
839193
|
832710
|
|
CR16
|
Corals at Sha Tin Hoi North
|
840310
|
831665
|
|
CR17
|
Corals at Sha Tin Hoi South
|
840224
|
830692
|
|
G1
|
Potential Subzone of Yim Tin Tsai Fish Culture Zone / Gradient Station
|
840521
|
833311
|
|
CR9
|
Gruff Head Corals (Control Station)
|
850995
|
838008
|
4.4
Marine
Water Quality Monitoring Parameters and Schedule
Depths of
Measurements
4.4.1.1
Measurements shall be taken at three water
depths, namely, 1 m below water surface, mid-depth and 1 m above sea bed, except
where the water depth is less than 6 m, in which case the mid-depth station may
be omitted. Shall the water depth
be less than 3 m, only the mid-depth station will be monitored. The status and locations of water
sensitive receivers and the marine activities may change after issuing this
Manual. Necessary change in the monitoring locations shall be reviewed and
approved by EPD, Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) and
Water Supplies Department (WSD) before the commencement of the monitoring.
Baseline
Monitoring
4.4.1.2
A seven-month baseline monitoring programme
covering the period from June to December (outside the algae blooming season)
is proposed at a frequency of twice per month to establish the baseline water
quality conditions for THEES maintenance discharge at the 13 stations prior to
the commencement of the Project construction works. A one-year baseline
monitoring programme covering both dry and wet seasons is proposed at a
frequency of twice per month to establish the baseline water quality conditions
for emergency discharge at the 13 stations before commissioning of the Project.
The baseline monitoring periods for the THEES maintenance and emergency
discharge may be overlapped. The proposed water quality monitoring schedule should
be submitted to EPD at least 4 weeks before the first day of the monitoring
month. EPD should also be notified immediately for any changes in schedule.
Marine water quality parameters including pH, salinity dissolved oxygen (DO),
turbidity, suspended solids (SS), 5-day biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), total
inorganic nitrogen (TIN), ammonia nitrogen (NH3-N), unionized
ammonia (UIA), chlorophyll-a and E. coli levels shall be
monitored. Salinity, pH, DO and turbidity shall be measured in-situ
whereas SS, BOD, TIN, NH3-N, UIA, chlorophyll-a and E.
coli shall be determined by laboratory.
4.4.1.3
The purpose of the baseline monitoring is to
establish ambient conditions without any discharge from the Project. The
baseline monitoring programme shall be suspended in the events of any THEES
maintenance or emergency discharge during the monitoring period. The baseline water quality shall be
established and agreed with EPD prior to the commencement of Project works.
Impact
Monitoring
4.4.1.4
Water quality parameters including pH, salinity,
DO, turbidity, SS, BOD, TIN, NH3-N, UIA, chlorophyll-a and E.coli
shall be measured under the impact monitoring programme. Salinity, pH, DO and
turbidity shall be measured in-situ whereas SS, BOD, TIN, NH3-N,
UIA, chlorophyll-a and E. coli shall be determined by laboratory.
4.4.1.6
The monitoring programme for THEES maintenance
and emergency discharge during the construction and commissioning phases of the
Project as discussed above shall continue in the first 3 years after
commissioning of this Project. After 3 years of post-Project commissioning
period, a review shall be conducted by DSD to determine whether such monitoring
shall be continued. The review results shall be submitted to EPD, AFCD, WSD and
other relevant parties. Any amendment on the monitoring programme shall be
agreed by EPD, AFCD and WSD.
4.5.1.1
It is recommended that the THEES maintenance
event shall be scheduled outside the period from January to May (the algae
blooming season). It is also recommended that relevant government departments
including EPD, WSD, AFCD and stakeholders for mariculture and fisheries shall
be informed of the THEES maintenance or emergency discharge events. The DSD /
Plant operators shall maintain good communications with various concerned
parties. A list of address, email address, phone and fax number of key persons
in various departments responsible for action shall be made available to the
Plant operators. A summary of the mitigation measures and monitoring
requirements for the THEES maintenance or emergency discharge is provided in Table 4.2.
Table 4.2 Mitigation
Measures and Monitoring Requirement for THEES Maintenance / Emergency Discharge
at Tolo Harbour
|
Event
|
Mitigation Measures and Monitoring Requirement
|
|
THEES Maintenance Discharge during
construction and operation of this Project
|
1.
Schedule the THEES
maintenance event outside algae blooming season (January ¡V May).
2.
Inform EPD, WSD,
AFCD and stakeholders for mariculture and fisheries of the THEES
maintenance event before any discharge.
3.
Conduct marine
water quality impact monitoring at a frequency of 3 times per week as
proposed in Section
4.4.1.5 until the baseline water
quality is restored or at least 1 months after termination of the THEES
maintenance discharge (whichever is longer).
4.
If considered
necessary, install silt curtains / silt screens at WI and W2 during the
discharge until the baseline water quality levels are restored.
5.
The monitoring
data collected in Item 3 above shall be compared with the baseline data
collected under normal THEES operation to identify the degree of impact
caused by the maintenance discharge.
|
|
Emergency Discharge during
operation of this Project
|
1.
Investigate
the reason of
failure and determine possible remedial measures and identify the need of
emergency discharge.
2.
Inform
EPD, WSD, AFCD and stakeholders for
mariculture and fisheries of the emergency discharge.
3.
Ensure
remedial measures are implemented.
4.
Assess the
effectiveness of the implemented remedial measures and identify alternative measures
if necessary.
5.
Discuss with
EPD, AFCD and WSD for the required remedial actions if necessary and ensure
all necessary remedial actions are properly implemented.
6.
Conduct marine
water quality impact monitoring daily as proposed in Section 4.4.1.5 until the baseline water quality is restored or at least 2 weeks
after termination of the emergency discharge
(whichever is longer).
7.
The monitoring
data collected in Item 6 above shall be compared with the baseline data
collected under normal Project operation to identify the degree of impact
caused by the emergency discharge.
|
Monitoring
Stations
4.6.1.1
Water quality monitoring shall be conducted at
six EPD¡¦s routine river water quality monitoring stations, namely KN1, KN2,
KN3, KN4, KN5 and KN7 respectively, located along KTN. The coordinates of the
proposed monitoring stations are listed in Table 4.3.
Table 4.3 Proposed
Water Quality Monitoring Stations in Kai Tak Nullah
|
Station
|
Easting
|
Northing
|
|
KN1
|
838780
|
820432
|
|
KN2
|
838704
|
820919
|
|
KN3
|
838620
|
821008
|
|
KN4
|
838421
|
821200
|
|
KN5
|
838268
|
821342
|
|
KN7
|
838388
|
822256
|
Depths of
Measurements
4.6.1.2
Measurements shall be taken at three water
depths, namely, 1 m below water surface, mid-depth and 1 m above sea bed,
except where the water depth is less than 6 m, in which case the mid-depth
station may be omitted. Shall the
water depth be less than 3 m, only the mid-depth station will be
monitored. The status and locations
of water sensitive receivers and the marine activities may change after issuing
this Manual. Necessary change in the monitoring locations shall be reviewed and
approved by EPD and WSD before the commencement of the monitoring.
Monitoring
Programme
4.6.1.3
A three-month impact monitoring programme is
proposed at a frequency of once per month after commissioning of this Project.
Marine water quality parameters including pH, salinity, DO, turbidity, SS, BOD,
NH3-N, nitrate-nitrogen (NO3-N) and E. coli levels
shall be monitored. Salinity, pH, DO and turbidity shall be measured in-situ
whereas SS, BOD, TIN, NH3-N, NO3-N, and E. coli
shall be determined by laboratory. The water quality data collected from this
monitoring programme should be compared with the EPD¡¦s long term river water
quality at the same stations to verify if there is any significant water
quality change as compared to that before the implementation of this Project.
Daily effluent monitoring for the same parameters shall also be conducted at
both TPSTW and CSTW during the water quality monitoring programme to provide
necessary data to assist in identification of the potential impact. In case
adverse impact on KTN is identified from this Project with reference to the
effluent and water quality monitoring results, the operating conditions of the
treatment and THEES system should be investigated. In case adverse impact on
KTN is identified from this Project with reference to the effluent and water
quality monitoring results, the operating conditions of the treatment and THEES
system should be investigated, and DSD should extend the water quality
monitoring programme for at least three months or as agreed by the Director of
Environmental Protection.
4.7.1.1
Other relevant data shall also be recorded,
including monitoring location / position, time, water depth, pH value,
salinity, temperature, tidal stages, weather conditions and any special
phenomena or work underway nearby. A sample data record sheet is shown in Appendix B.3 for
reference.
4.8.1.1
The instrument shall be a portable and weatherproof
DO measuring instrument complete with cable and sensor, and use a direct
current (DC) power source. The
equipment shall be capable of measuring:
¡P
a DO level in the range of 0 ‑ 20 mg
L-1 and 0 ‑
200% saturation; and
¡P
a temperature of 0 ‑ 45 degree Celsius.
4.8.1.2
It shall have a membrane electrode with
automatic temperature compensation complete with a cable. Sufficient stocks of
spare electrodes and cables shall be available for replacement where necessary.
For example, YSI model 59 meter, YSI 5739 probe, YSI 5795A submersible stirrer
with reel and cable or an approved similar instrument.
4.8.1.3
Shall salinity compensation not be built-in to
the DO equipment, in-situ salinity shall be measured to calibrate the DO
equipment prior to each DO measurement.
4.8.2.1
Turbidity shall be measured in situ by the
nephelometric method. The instrument shall be portable and weatherproof
turbidity measuring instrument using a DC power source complete with cable,
sensor and comprehensive operation manuals. It shall have a photoelectric
sensor capable of measuring turbidity between 0 - 1000 NTU (for example, Hach
model 2100P or an approved similar instrument). The cable shall not be less
than 25m in length. The meter shall be calibrated in order to establish the
relationship between NTU units and the levels of suspended solids.
4.8.3.1
A water sampler is required. It shall comprise a transparent
Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) cylinder, with a capacity of not less than 2 litres,
which can be effectively sealed with latex cups at both ends. The sampler shall
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
(for example, Kahlsico Water Sampler or an approved similar instrument).
4.8.4.1
A portable, battery-operated echo sounder shall
be used for the determination of water depth at each designated monitoring
station. This unit can either be hand held or affixed to the bottom of the work
boat, if the same vessel is to be used throughout the monitoring programme.
4.8.5.1
A portable salinometer capable of measuring
salinity in the range of 0 - 40 parts per thousand (ppt) shall be provided for
measuring salinity of the water at each monitoring location.
4.8.6.1
The instrument shall consist of a potentiometer,
a glass electrode, a reference electrode and a temperature-compensating device.
It shall be readable to 0.1 pH in a range of 0 to 14. Standard buffer solutions
of at least pH 7 and pH 10 shall be used for calibration of the instrument
before and after use. Details of the method shall comply with American Public
Health Association (APHA), 19th ed. 4500-HTB.
4.8.7.1
Water samples shall be stored in high density
polythene bottles with no preservative added, packed in ice (cooled to 4¢XC
without being frozen) and delivered to the laboratory and analysed as soon as
possible after collection. Sufficient volume of samples shall be collected to
achieve the required detection limit.
4.8.8.1
A hand-held or boat-fixed type digital
Differential Global Positioning System (DGPS) with way point bearing indication
or other equipment instrument of similar accuracy, shall be provided and used during
marine water monitoring to ensure the monitoring vessel is at the correct
location before taking measurements.
4.8.9.1
All in-situ monitoring instruments shall
be checked, calibrated and certified by a laboratory accredited under HOKLAS or
any other international accreditation scheme before use and subsequently
re-calibrated at three monthly intervals throughout all stages of the water
quality monitoring programme. Responses of sensors and electrodes shall be
checked with certified standard solutions before each use. Wet bulb calibration
for a DO meter shall be carried out before measurement at each monitoring
location.
4.8.9.2
Sufficient stocks of spare parts shall be
maintained for replacements when necessary. Backup monitoring equipment shall also
be made available so that monitoring can proceed uninterrupted even when some
equipment is under maintenance, calibration, etc.
4.9.1.1
Analysis of SS, BOD, TIN(),
NH3-N, NO3-N, UIA(),
chlorophyll-a and E. coli levels shall be carried out in a HOKLAS
or other international accredited laboratory. Sufficient water samples shall be
collected at the monitoring stations for carrying out the necessary laboratory
analysis. The analysis shall commence within 24 hours after collection of the
water samples. The analyses shall follow the standard methods described in APHA
Standard Methods for the Examination of Water and Wastewater, 19th
edition or other approved methods.
Detailed testing methods, pre-treatment procedures, instrument use,
Quality Assurance (QA) /Quality Control (QC) details (such as blank, spike
recovery, number of duplicate samples per batch, etc.), detection limits and
accuracy shall be submitted to EPD for approval prior to the commencement of
monitoring programme. EPD may also request the laboratory to carry out analysis
of known standards provided by EPD for quality assurance. Additional duplicate
samples may be required by EPD for inter laboratory calibration. Remaining
samples after analysis shall 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 shall have comprehensive quality assurance
and quality control programmes. The laboratory shall prepare to demonstrate the
programmes to EPD or his representatives when requested.
4.10.1.1
Mitigation measures for water quality control
during the construction phase have been recommended in the EIA Report. The
Contractor should be responsible for the design and implementation of these
measures.
4.10.1.2
Recommended mitigation measures to minimise the
adverse impacts on water quality during the construction activities are listed
in the implementation schedule given in Appendix C.
4.11.1.1
Implementation of regular site audits 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. Site audits shall include site inspections
and compliance audits.
4.11.2.1
Site inspections shall be carried out by the ET
and shall be based on the mitigation measures for water pollution control
recommended in Section 4.10. In the event that the
recommended mitigation measures are not fully or properly implemented,
deficiency shall be recorded and reported to the site management. Suitable
actions are to be carried out to:
¡P
Investigate the problems and the causes;
¡P
Issue action notes to the Contractor which is
responsible for the works;
¡P
Implement remedial and corrective actions
immediately;
¡P
Re-inspect the site conditions upon completion
of the remedial and corrective actions; and
¡P
Record the event and discuss with the Contractor
for preventive actions.
4.11.3.1
Monitoring of the treated effluent quality from
the Works Areas is required during the construction phase of the Project. The monitoring
shall be carried out at the pre-determined discharge point. Compliance audits
are to be undertaken to ensure that a valid discharge licence has been issued
by EPD prior to the discharge of effluent from the Project site. The monitoring
frequency and parameters specified in the discharge licence shall be fully
considered during the monitoring. All monitoring requirements shall be approved
by EPD. The audit results reflect whether the effluent quality is in compliance
with the discharge licence requirements. In case of non-compliance, suitable
actions shall be undertaken to:
¡P
Notify the site management for the
non-compliance;
¡P
Identify the sources of pollution;
¡P
Check the implementation status of the
recommended mitigation measures;
¡P
Investigate the operating conditions of the
on-site treatment systems;
¡P
Implement corrective and remedial actions to
improve the effluent quality;
¡P
Increase monitoring frequency until the effluent
quality is in compliance with the discharge licence requirements; and
¡P
Record the non-compliance and propose preventive
measures.
5.1.1.1
Further site walkover and/or detailed land
contamination assessment will be required for sites that are inaccessible/
currently in operation/ yet to be constructed (i.e. existing STSTW, Sha Tin
Vehicle Detention Centre (VDC), David Camp and proposed Ah Kung Kok Shan Road
surface magazine site). The site walkover, detailed land contamination
assessment and if necessary, remediation works should be carried out after
decommissioning of the sites but prior to the re-development. Supplementary
Contaminated Assessment Plan(s) (CAP(s)), Contamination Assessment Report(s)
(CAR(s)) and if necessary, Remediation Action Plan(s) (RAP(s)) and Remediation
Report(s) (RR(s)) should be submitted to EPD for agreement.
5.2.1.1
Remediation works, if necessary, would be
carried out during construction phase but prior to commencement of any
construction works. Mitigation measures as recommended in the EIA Report, Appendix C of
this Manual and future RAP(s) should be implemented during the remediation
works. EM&A should be carried out in the form of regular site inspection to
ensure the recommended mitigation measures are properly implemented and
findings of the audit should be reported in the EM&A reports.
5.3.1.1
As any contaminated soil / groundwater would be
identified and properly treated prior to the re-development, land contamination
during the operation phase is not expected. As such, environmental monitoring and
audit during operation phase for land contamination is considered not
necessary.
6.1.1.1
Blasting activities regarding the storage,
transport and use of explosives should be supervised and audited by the
competent site staff to ensure strict compliance with the blasting permit
conditions.
6.2.1.1
The recommended mitigation measures as outlined
in the Implementation Schedule included in Appendix C of
this EM&A Manual should be implemented to meet the Technical Memorandum on
EIAO-TM requirements. Those recommended mitigation measures are also summarised
as below.
6.2.2.1
The following recommendations are justified to
be implemented to meet the EIAO-TM requirements:
¡P
The truck should be designed to minimise the
amount of combustible in the cabin. The fuel carried in the fuel tank should
also be minimised to reduce the duration of any fire;
¡P
The accident involvement frequency of the
explosives delivery truck should be minimised through implementation of several
administrative measures, such as providing training programme to the driver,
regular ¡§tool box¡¨ briefing session, implementing a defensive driving attitude,
selecting driver with good safety record, and providing regular medical checks
for the driver;
¡P
Avoidance of returning unused explosives to the
magazine, only the required quantity of explosives for a particular blast
should be transported;
¡P
Maintain a minimum headway of 10 minutes between
two consecutive truck convoys whenever practicable; and
¡P
The fire involvement frequency should be
minimised by carrying better types of fire extinguishers and with bigger
capacity onboard of the explosives delivery truck. Emergency plans and
trainings could also be provided to make sure that the fire extinguishers are
used adequately.
6.2.3.1
The magazine should be designed, built, operated
and maintained in accordance with Mines Division of the Civil Engineering and
Development Department (CEDD) guidelines and appropriate industry best
practice. In addition, the following recommendations should be implemented:
¡P
The security plan should address different alert
security level to reduce opportunity for arson or deliberate initiation of
explosives;
¡P
Emergency plan should be developed to address
uncontrolled fire in magazine area, and drill of the emergency plan should be
regularly carried out;
¡P
Suitable work control system should be set-up, such as an operational manual including Permit-to-Work system, to ensure that work activities
undertaken during operation of the magazine are properly controlled;
¡P
Good house-keeping within the magazine to ensure
no combustible materials are accumulated;
¡P
Good house-keeping outside the magazine stores
to ensure no combustible materials are accumulated;
¡P
Regular checking of the magazine store to ensure
no water seepage through the roof, walls or floor;
¡P
A speed limit within the magazine site should be
enforced to reduce the risk of vehicle impact; and
¡P
Traffic Management should be implemented within
the magazine site to ensure that no more than 1 vehicle will be loaded at any
time.
6.2.4.1
The following recommendations should be
implemented:
¡P
Emergency plan should be developed to address
uncontrolled fire during transport. Case of fire near an explosive delivery
truck in jammed traffic should be included in the plan. Activation of fuel and
battery isolation switches on vehicle when fire breaks out should also be
included in the emergency plan to reduce likelihood of prolonged fire leading
to explosion;
¡P
Working guideline should be developed to define
procedure for explosives transport during adverse weather such as thunderstorm;
¡P
Detonators should be transported separately from
other Class 1 explosives. Separation of vehicles should also be maintained
through the trip;
¡P
Develop procedure to ensure the availability of
parking space on site for the explosives delivery truck. Delivery should not be
commenced if parking space on site is not secured;
¡P
Hot work or other activities should be banned in
the vicinity of the explosives offloading or charging activities;
¡P
Lining should be provided within the
transportation box on the vehicle;
¡P
Fire screen should be used between cabin and the
load on the vehicle;
¡P
Ensure packaging of detonators remains intact
until handed over at blasting site;
¡P
Ensure that cartridged emulsion packages are not
damaged before every trip;
¡P
Use experienced driver with good safety record;
and
¡P
If small quantities of explosives is required to
be disposed, it should be made in a controlled and safe manner by a Registered Shotfirer.
6.2.5.1
The following recommendations should be
implemented for the safe use of explosives:
¡P
Blast Charge Weight should be within Maximum
Instantaneous Charge (MIC) as specified for the given blast face;
¡P
Temporary mitigation measures such as blast
doors or heavy duty blast curtains should be installed at the portals or shafts
and at suitable locations underground to prevent flyrock and control the air
overpressure.
¡P
Multiple faces blasting will be carried out for
the construction of cavern in this project. Good communication and control will
need to be adopted in ensuring that the works are carried out safely.
¡P
It is not intended to carry out complete
evacuation of the construction areas and secure refuge areas should be
identified to workers in the areas.
¡P
A Chief Shotfirer and a Blasting Engineer shall
be employed in addition to the normal blasting personnel to ensure that the
works are safe and coordinated between blasting areas.
¡P
Shotfirer to be provided with a lightning
detector, and appropriate control measures should be in place;
¡P
Speed limit for the diesel vehicle truck and
bulk emulsion truck in the access tunnels and caverns should be imposed. The
truck may be escorted while underground to ensure route is clear from hazards
and obstructions; and
¡P
Hot work should be suspended during passage of
the diesel vehicle truck and bulk emulsion truck in the access tunnels and
caverns.
¡P
A boulder survey should be undertaken based on
the likely Peak Particle Velocity (PPV) values that would result from the
blasting process. Those boulders subject to the vibration higher than the
allowable limit should be strengthened, removed, or constructed with boulder
fence, prior to the commencement of blasting.
7.1.1.1
As stated in the EIA, no adverse residual
ecological impacts are expected from the Project upon the proper implementation
of mitigation measures. Nonetheless, EM&A is needed and the requirements
are described below.
7.2
Mitigation Measures
Ecologically Friendly Designs
7.2.1.1
The proposed access road to the ventilation
shaft and temporary magazine site would cross some natural stream sections (at
stream S2b) within Nui Po Shan.
Construction of access roads and other temporary works will be carefully
designed (e.g. elevated road for
crossing streams) to avoid habitat loss and fragmentation. Design of the access road alignment
would follow the topography level of the existing steep natural terrain as far
as practicable to avoid potential extensive excavation works of hilly terrain
and minimise slope cutting and vegetation removal. Moreover, the proposed location of the
ventilation shaft at Feasibility Study stage has been relocated such that the
access road alignment can be shortened.
7.2.1.2
The design Option 1B has been adopted in this
Project. Under this Option,
connection pipes to existing emergency outfall of STSTW would be constructed by
trenchless method underneath Shing Mun River. There would be no disturbance to marine
or riverbed sediments under the Project.
This Option is also anticipated to have the least water quality impact
from emergency outfall. Impacts to
marine habitats would therefore be avoided and minimised. In addition, THEES
connection works required for this Project will be arranged to be undertaken
within the regular THEES maintenance windows. Therefore, additional water quality
impact and marine ecological impact from changes of water quality have been
avoided. Furthermore, the THEES
maintenance discharge would avoid the blooming season of algae (i.e. January to
May) to minimise the potential water quality impacts. It is recommended that any THEES maintenance
period should be shortened as far as possible.
Protection of Species of Conservation
Importance
7.2.1.3
Some species of conservation importance were
recorded within the footprint of the proposed work areas. While no major
adverse impact are expected on avifauna species with high mobility, direct
impact to plant species of conservation importance recorded in the vicinity of
the construction sites would be avoided as far as practicable during
construction phase (e.g. Cibotium barometz within main portal area; Canthium
dicoccum on the southern edge of the secondary portal area; Peristylus
tentaculatus at the proposed access road). A Detailed
Vegetation Survey would be conducted within the proposed works areas to
identify any potentially affected plant species of conservation
importance. These identified
species should be labelled and fenced off on site prior to the commencement of
works for better protection according to the Protection and
Transplantation Plan.
7.2.1.4
A freshwater crab species Cryptopotamon anacoluthon
recorded from a natural stream section (S2b) on Nui Po Shan would be
potentially impacted by the construction of access road. The proposed avoidance measure by
provision of elevated road would protect the freshwater crab and their habitats
from direct impact.
General Minimisation Measures
7.2.2.1
To minimise habitat loss to the nearby habitats
and associated wildlife, the following mitigation measures should also be
implemented:-
¡P
confining the works within the site boundary;
¡P
controlling access of site staff to avoid damage
to the vegetation in surrounding areas; and
¡P
placement of equipment or stockpile in the
existing disturbed / urbanised land within the site boundary of the Project to
minimise disturbance to vegetated areas;
Reinstatement and Enhancement of Temporarily
Affected Habitats
7.2.2.2
Minor ecological impacts may arise from the
temporary loss of woodland, plantation, and shrubland habitats (about 2.48 ha)
during construction phase. In
general, replanting would be implemented upon the completion of construction
works to reinstate the temporarily affected areas to condition similar to
original status. For the magazine
site, given the availability of a relatively flat and ample area after
decommissioning, reinstatement / enhancement in form of native tree and shrub
planting would be provided, where practicable. With the implementation of mitigation
measure, no adverse ecological impact is anticipated from the temporary habitat
loss.
Protection of Vegetation (including Flora
Species of Conservation Importance)
7.2.2.3
Small area of shrubland may be affected due to installation of boulder fences and check damsproposed
under the natural terrain hazard study.
The location of the installation should be carefully selected and
adjusted on-site to avoid/minimise tree felling as well as the damage to root
system of the existing plants.
Plant species of conservation importance have been identified within the
footprint of construction (i.e. Cibotium barometz at plantation within
main portal; Canthium dicoccum at woodland within secondary portal; and Peristylus tentaculatus within the footprint of the access road). A Detailed Vegetation Survey shall be
conducted by a qualified botanist / ecologist with at least 10 years relevant
experience to identify plant species of conservation importance in the
immediate vicinity of the proposed works areas. The potentially affected individuals
shall be preserved, or in the case of unavoidable loss, transplanted according
to the Protection and Transplantation Plan.
Controlling Site Runoff
7.2.2.4
Stream S2 and other streams within the
assessment area would be subjected to minor indirect impact due to surface
runoff resulting from construction works.
Fauna species of conservation importance (i.e. amphibian Lesser Spiny
Frog, Hong Kong Cascade Frog, and
freshwater crab Cryptopotamon anacoluthon) were recorded within S2, which would be
subjected to such indirect impacts.
Surface runoff may also indirectly impact the breeding behaviour of
Lesser Spiny Frog and Hong Kong Cascade Frog in S2. Appropriate mitigation measures should
be implemented to control runoff from the construction site, as well as
adopting guidelines and good site practices for handling and disposal of
construction discharges in order to minimise the potential indirect impact on
the streams. Other precautionary
measures will also be implemented in accordance with ETWB TCW No. 5/2005
Protection of natural streams/rivers from adverse impacts arising from
construction works to minimise indirect impacts to the streams, such as
isolating the work site by placing sandbags and silt curtains, covering up
construction materials, debris and spoil to avoid being washed into the stream,
and properly collecting and treating construction effluent and sewage.
Reducing Glare / Lighting
7.2.2.5
The overall reduction of glare during both
construction and operation phases should also be considered. A balance between lighting for safety,
and avoiding excessive lighting can be achieved through the use of directional
lighting to avoid light spill into sensitive areas, and control/timing of
lighting periods of some facilities, particularly at the secondary portal which
lies approximately 200 m northwest of Ma On Shan Country Park. During the decommissioning and
demolition of the existing STSTW, the direction and lighting periods should
also be controlled during ardeid breeding season (March to August), hence
minimising the potential indirect impact on Penfold Park Egretry and the
ardeids flying over the STSTW.
Minimising Disturbance Impacts
7.2.2.6
Good site practice should be implemented to
further minimise impacts from disturbance such as noise, air quality and water
quality issues. The measures
include:
¡P
the use of quiet plant and EPD¡¦s Quality Powered
Mechanical Equipment (QPME) and the availability of British Standards 5228 has
been considered;
¡P
the use of movable noise barrier;
¡P
the use of temporary noise screening structures
or purpose-built temporary noise barriers;
¡P
install site hoarding as temporary noise barrier
where construction works are undertaken;
¡P
only well-maintained plant should be operated on
site and plant should be serviced regularly during the construction programme;
¡P
mitigation measures stipulated in the
Professional Persons Environmental Consultative Committee (ProPECC) PN 1/94
¡§Construction Site Drainage¡¨ should be complied to minimise water quality
impact; and
¡P
installation of stand-by pump, emergency power
supply and telemetry system to avoid sewage overflow and surcharge to sewerage
system due to power/equipment failure .
Control of Groundwater Infiltration
7.2.2.7
Appropriate measures during the construction of
the cavern construction should be implemented to minimise the groundwater
infiltration. The water control strategies include:
¡P
Probing Ahead: As a normal practice, the
Contractor will undertake rigorous probing of the ground ahead of excavation
works to identify zones of significant water inflow. The probe drilling results
will be evaluated to determine specific grouting requirements in line with the
tunnel / cavern advance. In such zones of significant water inflow that could
occur as a result of discrete, permeable features, the intent would be to
reduce overall inflow by means of cut-off grouting executed ahead of the tunnel
/ cavern advance.
¡P
Pre-grouting: Where water inflow quantities are
excessive, pre-grouting will be required to reduce the water inflow into the
tunnel / cavern. The pre-grouting will be achieved via a systematic and
carefully specified protocol of grouting.
¡P
In principle, the grout pre-treatment would be
designed on the basis of probe hole drilling ahead of the tunnel / cavern face.
¡P
The installation of waterproof lining would also
be adopted after the formation of the tunnels and caverns.
7.2.2.8
In the event of excessive infiltration being
observed as a result of the tunnelling or excavation works even after
incorporation of the water control strategies, post-grouting should be applied
as far as practicable as described below:
¡P
Post-grouting: Groundwater drawdown would be
most likely due to inflows of water into the tunnel / cavern that have not been
sufficiently controlled by the pre-grouting measures. Where this occurs post
grouting will be undertaken before the lining is cast. Such a contingency
should be allowed for reduction in permeability of the tunnel / cavern surround
(by grouting) to limit inflow to acceptable levels.
7.2.2.9
The groundwater control measures stated above
are proven technologies and have been extensively applied in other past
projects. These measures or other similar methods, as approved by the Engineer
to suit the works condition shall be applied to minimise the groundwater
infiltration.
7.2.2.10
In case seepage of groundwater occurs,
groundwater should be pumped out from works areas and discharged to the
stormwater drainage system via silt trap.
Uncontaminated groundwater from dewatering process should also be
discharged to the stormwater drainage system via silt removal facilities.
Marine Water Quality Control Measures
7.2.2.11
Mitigation measures recommended in the water quality
impact assessment for controlling water quality impact will also serve to
protect marine ecological resources from indirect impacts and ensure no
unacceptable impact on marine ecological resources. For more
detailed mitigation measures regarding water quality refer to Section
5 of the EIA Report.
7.2.2.12
Relevant government departments including EPD,
WSD and AFCD as well as key stakeholders for mariculture and fisheries in Tolo
Harbour should be informed of the THEES maintenance / emergency discharge event
prior to any discharge.
Compensatory Planting for Unavoidable
Woodland Loss
7.2.3.1
Permanent loss of woodland (about 0.65 ha) would
arise from the construction works, which would include removal of woodland on
Nui Po Shan. Minor to moderate
ecological impacts is anticipated from the loss. To compensate for the ecological impact
resulting from unavoidable loss of woodland, habitat compensation would be
provided in a ¡§no net loss¡¨ and ¡§like for like¡¨ basis, or by providing a
compensation area with equivalent or higher ecological function.
7.2.3.2
Compensatory planting with a total area of about
0.9 ha would be provided at the main and secondary portal areas, and along the
access road (refer to Table 7.1 and Figure
Nos. 60334056/EM&A/7.01a ¡V 7.01c). Native species are preferred for the
purpose of compensatory planting, where list of species can be made reference
to the native trees occurring in the existing similar habitat (refer to Table 7.2).
At maturity, the compensatory planting areas would create a habitat with
different layers (e.g. canopy, middle layer and understorey), which promotes
habitat complexity and in turn enhancing the ecological value. Proposed areas for compensatory planting
occur in close proximity to existing woodland habitats. As compared with fragmented planting at
other urban areas, compensatory planting at the proposed area would be
preferable to enhance connectivity and ecological linkage.
Table 7.1 Compensatory
Planting Proposed under the Project
|
Locations
|
Area (ha)
|
|
Main
Portal
|
0.54
|
|
Secondary
Portal
|
0.28
|
|
Near
Access Road
|
0.1
|
|
Total (ha)
|
0.92
|
Table 7.2 Flora
Species to be Considered for Compensatory Planting
|
Flora
Species
|
Growth Form
|
|
Acronychia
pedunculata
|
Tree
|
|
Alangium chinense
|
Tree or shrub
|
|
Aquilaria sinensis
|
Tree
|
|
Bischofia javanica
|
Tree
|
|
Bridelia tomentosa
|
Shrub or small tree
|
|
Canthium
dicoccum
|
Tree or shrub
|
|
Celtis sinensis
|
Tree
|
|
Cinnamomum camphora
|
Tree
|
|
Cleistocalyx nervosum
|
Tree
|
|
Daphniphyllum calycinum
|
Tree
|
|
Elaeocarpus
chinensis
|
Tree or small tree
|
|
Ficus microcarpa
|
Tree
|
|
Garcinia oblongifolia
|
Tree
|
|
Litsea glutinosa
|
Tree
|
|
Machilus pauhoi
|
Tree
|
|
Mallotus paniculatus
|
Tree or shrub
|
|
Phyllanthus emblica
|
Tree or shrub
|
|
Schefflera heptaphylla
|
Tree
|
|
Schima superba
|
Tree
|
|
Sterculia lanceolata
|
Semi-deciduous tree
|
|
Viburnum
odoratissimum
|
Shrub or small tree
|
7.2.3.3
Compensatory planting would be provided
sequentially after completion of works at each works area. As such, based on the current tentative
construction programme, compensatory planting would first be implemented along
access road in early 2024, while compensatory planting at main portal and
secondary portal would be implemented in 2027.
7.2.3.4
To facilitate successful planting, a detailed
Woodland Compensation Plan should be prepared by local ecologists with at least
10 years relevant experience to form the basis to guide the implementation of
the proposed compensatory planting.
The Woodland Compensation Plan should include implementation details,
management requirement, as well as monitoring requirements (e.g. frequency and
parameters) of the compensatory planting area. Approval of the Plan should be obtained
from EPD at least three months before the commencement of compensatory woodland
planting. Upon the completion of
planting, monitoring of the woodland compensation areas should be implemented,
with maintenance works (e.g. irrigation, weeding, pruning, control of pests and
diseases, replacement planting, repair of damage, etc.) conducted as necessary.
7.2.3.5
With the implementation of the proposed
compensatory planting, ecological impact arising from the permanent loss of
woodland habitat would be compensated.
Enhancement Measures to Promote Ecological
Value
7.2.3.6
Other greening opportunities would be explored
in the Project, including green roofs and buffer planting to be implemented at
building structures. Further
details of such greening opportunities are described in Section
10 of the EIA Report.
Terrestrial Ecology
7.3.1.1
Recommended mitigation measures described above
(e.g. avoidance of stream and riparian habitats; control of site runoff, reduction
in glare / lighting) should be monitored and audited monthly by local
ecologist(s) with at least 10 years relevant experience throughout the
construction phase to ensure proper implementation.
7.3.1.2
All flora species of conservation importance
(e.g. Cibotium barometz, Canthium dicoccum, and Peristylus tentaculatus) should be
protected as far as practicable. As
a mitigation measure, all the unavoidably affected individuals should be
preserved on site, or transplanted to nearby suitable habitat(s) prior to the
commencement of site clearance as a last resort. A Detailed Vegetation Survey should be
conducted by a suitably qualified botanist / ecologist to identify and record
the affected individuals prior to the commencement of any site clearance
works. A Protection and
Transplantation Proposal including the subsequent monitoring visit for the
affected individuals should be prepared and conducted by a suitably qualified
local ecologist / horticulturist with at least 10 years relevant experience. The Proposal should be submitted for
approval from EPD at least one month before works commencement.
7.3.1.3
Compensatory planting would be provided
within the works area, including the main portal, secondary portal and along
access road to compensate for the affected woodland habitat. A
detailed Woodland Compensation Plan should be prepared by local ecologist /
botanist with at least 10 years relevant experience to form the basis of the
proposed compensatory planting. The
Woodland Compensation Plan should include implementation details, management
requirement, as well as monitoring requirements (e.g. frequency and parameters)
of the compensatory planting area.
Upon completion of compensatory planting, monitoring by local ecologist
/ botanist with at least 10 years relevant experience is recommended. The monitoring frequency should be
monthly within the first year after planting. Parameters,
such as health condition and survival rate of the plant, presence of weedy
plant, should be monitored. Maintenance works (e.g. irrigation, weeding,
pruning, control of pests and disease, replacement planting, repair of damage,
etc.) should also be conducted as necessary. The Woodland Compensation Plan should be
submitted for approval from EPD at least three months before commencement of
compensatory woodland planting.
7.3.1.4
It is anticipated that the construction of rock
caverns would not have adverse impacts on groundwater in Nui Po Shan. Nonetheless, precautionary measures
should be taken in cavern design and construction to minimize the potential
impacts from the change in groundwater level. Surface water level or groundwater level
near the caverns will be closely monitored during the construction and
operation stage.
Marine Ecology
7.3.1.5
As described in Section
5 of EIA Report, monitoring of water quality parameters would be required
to ensure the effectiveness of the mitigation measures.
7.3.1.6
The potential water quality impact from the
land-based construction works can be controlled by the recommended mitigation
measures. Regular site inspections
should be undertaken during the construction phase to inspect the construction
activities and works areas in order to ensure the recommended mitigation
measures are properly implemented.
Details of the EM&A programme are presented in Section
4 of this manual.
7.3.1.7
During normal plant / THEES operation,
monitoring of the treated effluent quality from the CSTW should be carried out in
accordance with WPCO license to ensure that the effluent quality would comply
with the design standards, which is under the ambit of RO of EPD.
7.3.1.8
Marine water quality monitoring is recommended
in Tolo Harbour for THEES maintenance during both construction and operational
phases of this Project. Marine
water quality parameters such as SS, BOD) E.coli, chlorophyll-a, TIN, UIA
and NH3-N should be monitored.
A seven-month baseline monitoring programme covering the period from
June to December (outside the algae blooming season) is proposed at a frequency
of twice per month to establish the baseline water quality conditions at
selected monitoring points. In case
of THEES maintenance during the construction and operational phases of this
Project, marine water quality in Tolo Harbour should be monitored at a
frequency of 3 times per week throughout the maintenance period until the
baseline water quality is restored or at least 1 month after termination of the
effluent bypass (whichever is longer).
7.3.1.9
The monitoring programme for THEES maintenance
during the construction and operational phase of this Project as discussed
above shall continue in the first 3 years after commissioning of this
Project. After 3 years of post-Project
commission period, a review shall be conducted by DSD to determine whether such
monitoring shall be continued. The
review results shall be submitted to EPD, AFCD, WSD and other relevant
parties. Any amendment on the
monitoring programme shall be agreed by EPD, AFCD and WSD. Details of the monitoring programme and
an event and action plan for the THEES maintenance are provided in Section
4 of this Manual.
7.3.1.10
Marine water quality monitoring is also
recommended in Tolo Harbour for emergency discharge during operational phase of
this Project. Marine water quality parameters such as SS, BOD, E.coli,
chlorophyll-a, TIN, UIA and NH3-N should be monitored. A
one-year baseline monitoring programme covering both dry and wet seasons is
proposed at a frequency of twice per month to establish the baseline water
quality conditions at selected monitoring points. In case of emergency
discharge during the operational phase of this Project, marine water quality in
Tolo Harbour should be monitored daily throughout the maintenance period until
the baseline water quality is restored or at least 2 weeks after termination of
the discharge (whichever is longer).
7.3.1.11
The monitoring programme for emergency discharge
during the operational phase of this Project as discussed above shall continue
in the first 3 years after commissioning of this Project. After 3 years of
post-Project commission period, a review shall be conducted by DSD to determine
whether such monitoring shall be continued. The review results shall be
submitted to EPD, AFCD, WSD and other relevant parties. Any amendment on the
monitoring programme shall be agreed by EPD, AFCD and WSD. Details of the
monitoring programme and an event and action plan for the emergency discharge
are provided in Section 4 of this Manual.
8.1.1.1
The
Project will only involve land-based construction works. There will be no disturbance to marine
or riverbed sediments. Under
the Project design, any Project effluent bypass to the Tolo Harbour will be
discharged separately through the existing
emergency outfall of the TPSTW and STSTW. Construction of the connection
pipes to existing emergency outfall of STSTW by trenchless method underneath
Shing Mun River was proposed. The
construction method would not cause disturbance to the marine sediment. With the adoption of trenchless method,
no loss of fishing ground is anticipated.
8.1.1.2
During the construction phase, THEES connection
works required for this Project will be arranged to be undertaken within the
regular THEES maintenance windows.
As such, no additional water quality impact, and hence, no additional
fisheries impact from changes of water quality will be induced by the proposed
THEES connection works. Indirect
fisheries impacts due to deterioration of water quality are expected during
operation phase. Changes in water
quality (e.g. SS, DO, TIN, chlorophyll-a) at Yim Tin Tsai FCZ, Lo Fu Wat FCZ and the important nursery
area for commercial fisheries resources at Three Fathoms Cove are expected
during operation phase (i.e. discharge of effluent to Tolo Harbour during the
maintenance of THEES tunnel; and emergency discharge of primarily treated
sewage from the relocated STSTW).
However, no significant changes in water quality parameters are
predicted. No unacceptable water
quality impacts are expected. With
the implementation of mitigation measures for water quality, no unacceptable
fisheries impacts are expected.
8.1.1.3
As mentioned in the EIA report, no monitoring
program specific for fisheries is required. However, monitoring of water
quality parameters would be required to ensure the effectiveness of the
mitigation measures (refer to Section
5 of the EIA Report).
Avoidance
8.2.1.1
Potential impacts on fisheries resources and
fishing operations arising from the Project have been avoided and minimised by
selecting Option 1B (construction of the connection pipes to existing to
emergency outfall of STSTW by trenchless method underneath Shing Mun River) of
emergency outfall with the least water quality impact. In addition, the temporary effluent bypass
event would be arranged within the regular THEES maintenance windows. Therefore, additional water quality
impact and fisheries impact from changes of water quality have been
avoided. Furthermore, the THEES
maintenance discharge would avoid the blooming season of algae (i.e. January to
May) to minimise the potential water quality impacts. It is recommended that any any THEES
maintenance period should be shortened as far as possible.
Minimisation
8.2.1.2
Mitigation measures recommended in the water
quality impact assessment for controlling water quality impact will also serve
to protect fisheries from indirect impacts and ensure no unacceptable impact on
fisheries resources and operations. For more detailed mitigation
measures regarding water quality refer to Sections
5.7.2 and 5.13.2
of the EIA Report.
8.2.1.3
Relevant government departments including EPD,
WSD and AFCD as well as key stakeholders for mariculture and fisheries in Tolo
Harbour should be informed prior to the THEES maintenance / emergency discharge
events.
8.3.1.1
No unacceptable residual fisheries impact is
expected from the Project. No monitoring program specific for
fisheries is required. However, monitoring of water quality
parameters would be required to ensure the effectiveness of the mitigation
measures (refer to Section 4 of this Manual).
8.3.1.2
The potential water quality impact from the
land-based construction works can be controlled by the recommended mitigation
measures. Regular site inspections
should be undertaken during the construction phase to inspect the construction
activities and works areas in order to ensure the recommended mitigation
measures are properly implemented.
Details of the EM&A programme are presented in Section
4 of this Manual.
8.3.1.3
During normal plant / THEES operation, monitoring
of the treated effluent quality from the CSTW should be carried out in
accordance with the WPCO license to ensure that the effluent quality would
comply with the design standards, which is under the ambit of RO of EPD.
8.3.1.4
Marine water quality monitoring is recommended
in Tolo Harbour for THEES maintenance during both construction and operational
phases of this Project. Marine
water quality parameters such as SS, BOD, E.coli, chlorophyll-a, TIN, UIA
and NH3-N should be monitored.
A seven-month baseline monitoring programme covering the period from
June to December (outside the algae blooming season) is proposed at a frequency
of twice per month to establish the baseline water quality conditions at
selected monitoring points. In case
of THEES maintenance during the construction and operational phases of this
Project, marine water quality in Tolo Harbour should be monitored at a
frequency of 3 times per week throughout the maintenance period until the
baseline water quality is restored or at least 1 month after termination of the
effluent bypass (whichever is longer).
8.3.1.5
The monitoring programme for THEES maintenance
during the construction and operational phase of this Project as discussed
above shall continue in the first 3 years after commissioning of this
Project. After 3 years of
post-Project commission period, a review shall be conducted by DSD to determine
whether such monitoring shall be continued. The review results shall be submitted to
EPD, AFCD, WSD and other relevant parties.
Any amendment on the monitoring programme shall be agreed by EPD, AFCD
and WSD. Details of the monitoring
programme and an event and action plan for the THEES maintenance are provided
in Section 4 of this Manual.
8.3.1.6
Marine water quality monitoring is also
recommended in Tolo Harbour for emergency discharge during operational phase of
this Project. Marine water quality parameters such as SS, BOD, E.coli,
chlorophyll-a, TIN, UIA and NH3-N should be monitored. A
one-year baseline monitoring programme covering both dry and wet seasons is
proposed at a frequency of twice per month to establish the baseline water
quality conditions at selected monitoring points. In case of emergency
discharge during the operational phase of this Project, marine water quality in
Tolo Harbour should be monitored daily throughout the maintenance period until
the baseline water quality is restored or at least 2 weeks after termination of
the discharge (whichever is longer).
8.3.1.7
The monitoring programme for emergency discharge
during the operational phase of this Project as discussed above shall continue
in the first 3 years after commissioning of this Project. After 3 years of
post-Project commission period, a review shall be conducted by DSD to determine
whether such monitoring shall be continued. The review results shall be
submitted to EPD, AFCD, WSD and other relevant parties. Any amendment on the
monitoring programme shall be agreed by EPD, AFCD and WSD. Details of the
monitoring programme and an event and action plan for the emergency discharge
are provided in Section 4 of this Manual.
9.1.1.1
The EIA has recommended landscape and visual mitigation
measures to be undertaken during both the construction and operational phases
of the Project. The design, implementation and maintenance of landscape
mitigation measures should be checked to ensure that any potential conflicts
between the proposed landscape measures and any other works of the Project
would be resolved as early as practicable without affecting the implementation
of the mitigation measures.
9.2.1.1
The proposed mitigation measures of landscape
and visual impacts are summarised
in Appendix C.
The landscape and visual mitigation measures proposed should be incorporated in
the detailed landscape and engineering design. The construction phase
mitigation measures should be adopted from the commencement of construction and
should be in place throughout the entire construction period. Mitigation
measures for the operational phase should be adopted during the detailed design
and be built as part of the construction works so that they are in place on
commissioning of the Project.
9.2.1.2
Any
potential conflicts among the proposed mitigation measures, the Project works,
and operational requirements should also be identified and resolved at early
stage. Any changes to the mitigation measures should be incorporated in the
detailed design.
9.3.1.1
Baseline monitoring to check, record and report
the status of the Landscape Resources and Character Areas within the
construction works sites and works areas and the Visually Sensitive Receivers
(VSRs) within the visual envelope shall be conducted prior to commencement of
any construction works making reference to the Landscape Resources, Landscape
Character Area and VSRs maps included in the EIA Report.
9.3.1.2
Any significant changes to the status of
Landscape Resources, Character Areas and VSRs since the EIA shall be
identified. The recommended landscape and visual mitigation measures shall be
reviewed if such change warrants a change in the design of the landscape and visual
mitigation measures.
9.3.1.3
A baseline monitoring report including
photographic record of the site at the time of the Contractor's possession of
the site shall be prepared by the Contractor and approved by the ER. The
approved baseline monitoring report including photographic record shall be
submitted to the Project Proponent, ET, IEC and EPD for record.
9.4.1.1
Site audits should be undertaken during the
construction phase of the Project to check that the proposed landscape and
visual mitigation measures are properly implemented and maintained as per their
intended objectives. Site inspections should be undertaken by the ET at least
once every two weeks during the construction period.
9.4.1.2
In the event of non-compliance, the
responsibilities of the relevant parties are detailed in the Event/Action plan
provided in Table 9.1.
Table 9.1 Event
/ Action Plan for Landscape and Visual during Construction Stage
|
Action Level
|
ET
|
IEC
|
ER
|
Contractor
|
|
Non-conformity
on one occasion
|
1.
Inform the Contractor, the IEC and the ER;
2.
Discuss remedial actions with the IEC, the ER
and the Contractor; and
3.
Monitor the remedial actions until
rectification has been completed.
|
1.
Check the inspection report;
2.
Check the Contractor's working method;
3.
Discuss with the ET, ER and the Contractor on
possible remedial measures; and
4.
Advise the ER on effectiveness of proposed
remedial measures.
|
1.
Confirm receipt of notification of
non-conformity in writing;
2.
Review and agree on the remedial measures
proposed by the Contractor; and
3.
Supervise implementation of remedial
measures.
|
1.
Identify Source and investigate the
non-conformity;
2.
Implement remedial measures;
3.
Amend working methods agreed with the ER as
appropriate; and
4.
Rectify damage and undertake any necessary
replacement.
|
|
Repeated
Non-conformity
|
1.
Identify source;
2.
Inform the Contractor, the IEC and the ER;
3.
Increase inspection frequency;
4.
Discuss remedial actions with the IEC, the ER
and the Contractor;
5.
Monitor remedial actions until rectification
has been completed; and
6.
If non-conformity stops, cease additional
monitoring.
|
1.
Check inspection report;
2.
Check the Contractor's working method;
3.
Discuss with the ET and the Contractor on
possible remedial measures; and
4.
Advise the ER on effectiveness of proposed
remedial measures.
|
1.
Notify the Contractor;
2.
In consultation with the ET and IEC, agree
with the Contractor on the remedial measures to be implemented; and
3.
Supervise implementation of remedial
measures.
|
1.
Identify Source and investigate the
non-conformity;
2.
Implement remedial measures;
3.
Amend working methods agreed with the ER as
appropriate; and
4.
Rectify damage and undertake any necessary
replacement. Stop relevant
portion of works as determined by the ER until the non-conformity is abated.
|
Note:
ET ¡V Environmental Team
IEC ¡V Independent Environmental Checker
ER ¡V Engineer¡¦s
Representative
10.1.1.1
No terrestrial and marine archaeological
potential is identified within the study area, and therefore it is considered
that there is no impact on archaeology and mitigation measure is not required.
10.1.1.2
Two built heritage resources in Tai Shui Hang
(both are Grade 3 historic buildings) as well as the Pak Kong-Mui Tsz Lam
Trackway (Site of Archaeological Interest) are identified outside the 50m study
area from the site boundary of Project.
Thus, no potential direct or indirect impact to these cultural heritage
resources is anticipated. Hence no
mitigation measures are required.
11.1.1.1
Waste management would be the Contractor¡¦s
responsibility to ensure that all wastes produced during the construction works
for the Project are handled, stored and disposed of in accordance with good
waste management practices, EPD¡¦s regulations and requirements.
11.1.1.2
Waste materials generated during construction
activities, such as construction and demolition (C&D) materials and general
refuse, are recommended to be audited at regular intervals (at least quarterly)
to ensure that proper storage, transportation and disposal practices are being
implemented. This monitoring of waste management practices would ensure that
these solid wastes generated during construction are not disposed into the
nearby coastal waters. The Contractor would be responsible for the
implementation of any mitigation measures to minimise waste or redress problems
arising from the waste materials. A waste management plan (WMP) should be
prepared in accordance with ETWB TCW No. 19/2005 and submitted to the Engineer
for approval. The monitoring and auditing requirements of the WMP as detailed
in ETWB TCW No. 19/2005 should be followed with regard to the management of
C&D material.
11.1.1.3
Large quantities of wastes are not expected from
the operation of the Project and
no adverse environmental impacts would arise with the implementation of good
waste management practices.
Therefore, an audit programme for the operational phase will not be
required.
11.2.1.1
Recommended mitigation measures for waste
management are summarised below, whereas the implementation schedule is
detailed in Appendix C.
With the appropriate handling, storage and removal of waste arisings during the
construction works as defined below, the potential to cause adverse
environmental impacts would be minimised.
During the site inspections, the ET shall pay special attention to the issues
relating to waste management and check whether the Contractor has implemented
the recommended good site practices and other mitigation measures.
11.2.2.1
Adverse impacts related to waste management are
not expected to arise, provided that good site practices are strictly followed.
Recommendations for good site practices during the construction activities
include:
¡P
Nomination of an approved person, such as a site
manager, to be responsible for good site practices, arrangements for collection
and effective disposal to an appropriate facility, of all wastes generated at
the site;
¡P
Training of site personnel in proper waste
management and chemical handling procedures;
¡P
Provision of sufficient waste reception/
disposal points, of a suitable vermin-proof design that minimises windblown
litter;
¡P
Arrangement for regular collection of waste for
transport off-site and final disposal;
¡P
Appropriate measures to minimise windblown
litter and dust during transportation of waste by either covering trucks or by
transporting wastes in enclosed containers;
¡P
Regular cleaning and maintenance programme for
drainage systems, sumps and oil interceptors;
¡P
A recording system for the amount of wastes
generated, recycled and disposed (including the disposal sites) should be proposed;
and
¡P
A WMP should be prepared and should be submitted
to the Engineer for approval. One may make reference to ETWB TCW No. 19/2005
for details.
11.2.3.1
Good management and control can prevent the generation
of a significant amount of waste.
Waste reduction is best achieved at the planning and design stage, as
well as by ensuring the implementation of good site
practices. Recommendations to achieve waste reduction include:
¡P
Segregate and store different types of
construction related waste in different containers, skips or stockpiles to
enhance reuse or recycling of materials and their proper disposal;
¡P
Provide separate labelled bins to segregate
recyclable waste such as aluminium cans from other general refuse generated by
the work force, and to encourage collection by individual collectors;
¡P
Any unused chemicals or those with remaining
functional capacity shall be recycled;
¡P
Maximising the use of reusable steel formwork to
reduce the amount of C&D material;
¡P
Prior to disposal of C&D waste, it is
recommended that wood, steel and other metals shall be separated for re-use and
/ or recycling to minimise the quantity of waste to be disposed of to landfill;
¡P
On-site crushing and sorting facilities are
being considered to reduce the rock size to fulfill the size requirements from
relevant waste collection / transfer / disposal facilities;
¡P
Adopt proper storage and site practices to
minimise the potential for damage to, or contamination of, construction
materials;
¡P
Plan the delivery and stock of construction
materials carefully to minimise the amount of waste generated;
¡P
Adopt pre-cast construction method instead of
cast-in-situ method for construction of concrete structures as much as
possible; and
¡P
Minimise over ordering of concrete, mortars and
cement grout by doing careful check before ordering.
11.2.3.2
In addition to the above measures, specific
mitigation measures are recommended below for the identified waste arising to
minimise environmental impacts during handling, transportation and disposal of
these wastes.
11.2.4.1
Storage of materials on site may induce adverse
environmental impacts if not properly managed, recommendations to minimise the
impacts include:
¡P
Waste, such as soil, should be handled and
stored well to ensure secure containment, thus minimising the potential of
pollution;
¡P
Maintain and clean storage areas routinely;
¡P
Stockpiling area should be provided with covers
and water spraying system to prevent materials from wind-blown or being washed
away; and
¡P
Different locations should be designated to
stockpile each material to enhance reuse.
11.2.4.2
Licensed waste haulers should be employed for
the collection and transportation of waste generated. The following measures should be enforced
to minimise the potential adverse impacts:
¡P
Remove waste in timely manner;
¡P
Waste collectors should only collect wastes
prescribed by their permits;
¡P
Impacts during transportation, such as dust
and odour, should be mitigated by the use of covered trucks or in enclosed
containers;
¡P
Obtain relevant waste disposal permits from
the appropriate authorities, in accordance with the Waste Disposal Ordinance
(Cap. 354), Waste Disposal (Charges for Disposal of Construction Waste)
Regulation (Cap. 345) and the Land (Miscellaneous Provisions) Ordinance (Cap.
28);
¡P
Waste should be disposed of at licensed waste
disposal facilities; and
¡P
Maintain records of quantities of waste
generated, recycled and disposed.
11.2.4.3
Land transport will be used for transportation
of excavated and stockpile materials. It is anticipated that there is no
adverse impact from the waste during transportation with the implementation of
appropriated measures (e.g. using water-tight containers and covered trucks).
11.2.4.4
In
order to monitor the disposal of C&D materials at Public Fill Reception
Facilities (PFRF) and landfills and to control fly-tipping, a trip-ticket
system should be established in accordance with DEVB TC(W) No. 6/2010. A
recording system for the amount of waste generated, recycled and disposed,
including the disposal sites, should also be set up. Warning signs should be
put up and close-circuited television should be installed at the vehicular
accesses to remind the designated disposal sites and prevent fly-tipping.
11.2.4.5
In
addition to the above general measures, other specific mitigation measures on
handling the C&D materials and materials generated from site formation and
demolition work are recommended below, which should form the basis of the WMP
to be prepared by the Contractor in construction phase.
11.2.5.1
In
order to minimise the impact resulting from collection and transportation of
C&D materials for off-site disposal, the excavated material arising from
site formation and foundation works should be reused on-site as backfilling
material and for landscaping works as far as practicable. Other mitigation
requirements are listed below:
¡P
A WMP, which becomes part of the
Environmental Management Plan (EMP), should be prepared in accordance
with ETWB TCW No.19/2005;
¡P
A recording system for the amount of wastes
generated, recycled and disposed (including the disposal sites) should be
adopted for easy tracking; and
¡P
In order to monitor the disposal of C&D
materials at public filling facilities and landfills and to control
fly-tipping, a trip-ticket system should be adopted (refer to DEVB TCW No. 6/2010).
11.2.5.2
It
is recommended that specific areas should be provided by the Contractor for
sorting and to provide temporary storage areas (if required) for the sorted
materials.
11.2.5.3
The Contactor should prepare and implement an
EMP in accordance with ETWB TCW No.19/2005, which describes the arrangements
for avoidance, reuse, recovery, recycling, storage, collection, treatment and
disposal of different categories of waste to be generated from construction
activities. Such a management plan should incorporate site specific factors,
such as the designation of areas for segregation and temporary storage of
reusable and recyclable materials. The EMP should be submitted to the Engineer
for approval. The Contractor should implement waste management practices in the
EMP throughout the construction stage of the Project. The EMP should be
reviewed regularly and updated by the Contractor, preferably on a monthly
basis.
11.2.5.4
All surplus C&D materials arising from or in
connection with construction works should become the property of the Contractor
when it is removed unless otherwise stated. The Contractor would be responsible
for devising a system to work for on-site sorting of C&D materials and
promptly removing all sorted and process materials arising from the
construction activities to minimise temporary stockpiling on-site. The system
should be included in the EMP identifying the source of generation, estimated
quantity, arrangement for on-site sorting, collection, temporary storage areas
and frequency of collection by recycling Contractors or frequency of removal
off-site.
11.2.6.1
Through
relocation of the STSTW to caverns, the odour issue is expected to be largely
reduced. Nevertheless, the practices of good housekeeping for the relocated
STSTW listed below should be followed to further ameliorate any odour impact
from handling, collection, transportation and disposal of sludge:
¡P
Screens should be cleaned regularly to remove
any accumulated organic debris;
¡P
Grit and screening transfer systems should be
flushed regularly with water to remove organic debris and grit;
¡P
Grit and screened materials should be
transferred to closed containers;
¡P
Scum and grease collection wells and troughs
should be emptied and flushed regularly to prevent putrefaction of accumulated
organics;
¡P
Skim and remove floating solids and grease
from primary clarifiers regularly;
¡P
Frequent sludge withdrawal from tanks is
necessary to prevent the production of gases ;
¡P
Sludge should be transported to the Sludge
Treatment Facilities (STF) by water-tight containers to avoid H2S/odour
emission and ingress of water into the containers which would lower the sludge
dryness during transportation;
¡P
Sludge cake should be transferred to closed
containers; and
¡P
Sludge containers should be flushed with
water regularly; and
¡P
Sludge trucks and containers should be washed
thoroughly before leaving the STSTW to avoid any odour nuisance during
transportation.
11.2.6.2
In
addition, all wastewater generated from the sludge dewatering process and all
contaminated water from the cleaning operations recommended for odour control
will be diverted to the relocated STSTW for proper treatment.
11.2.7.1
If chemical wastes are produced at the
construction site or during operation, the Contractor during construction or
the operator during operation will be required to register with the EPD as a
Chemical Waste Producer and to follow the guidelines stated in the Code of
Practice on the Packaging, Labelling and Storage of Chemical Wastes. Good
quality containers compatible with the chemical wastes should be used, and
incompatible chemicals should be stored separately. Appropriate labels should
be securely attached on each chemical waste container indicating the
corresponding chemical characteristics of the chemical waste, such as
explosive, flammable, oxidising, irritant, toxic, harmful, corrosive, etc. The
Contractor shall use a licensed collector to transport and dispose of the
chemical wastes, to either the Chemical Waste Treatment Centre at Tsing Yi, or
other licensed facility, in accordance with the Waste Disposal (Chemical Waste)
(General) Regulation.
11.2.8.1
Recycling of waste paper, aluminium cans and
plastic bottles should be encouraged, it is recommended to place clearly
labelled recycling bins at designated locations which could be accessed
conveniently. Other general refuse
should be separated from chemical and industrial waste by providing separated
bins for storage to maximise the recyclable volume.
11.2.8.2
A reputable licensed waste collector should be
employed to remove general refuse on a daily basis to minimise odour, pest and
litter impacts.
11.3
Audit
Requirement
11.3.1.1
Regular audits and site inspections should be
carried out during construction phases
by the ER, ET and Contractor
to ensure that the recommended good site practices and the recommended
mitigation measures in Appendix C are
properly implemented by the Contractor. The audits should concern all aspects
of on-site waste management practices including waste generation, storage,
recycling, transport and disposal. Apart from site inspection, documents
including licences, permits, disposal and recycling records should be reviewed
and audited for compliance with the legislation and contract requirements.
11.3.1.2
The requirements of the environmental audit
programme are set out in Section 13 of this Manual.
The audit programme will verify the implementation status and evaluate the
effectiveness of the mitigation measures.
12.1.1.1
Site inspection provides a direct means to
trigger and enforce specified environmental protection and pollution control
measures. These shall be undertaken regularly and routinely to inspect
construction activities in order to ensure that appropriate environmental
protection and pollution control mitigation measures are properly implemented.
The site inspection is one of the most effective tools to enforce the
environmental protection requirements at the works area.
12.1.1.2
The ET Leader shall be responsible for
formulating the environmental site inspection, the deficiency and remedial
action reporting system, and for carrying out the site inspection works. He shall submit a proposal for site
inspection and deficiency and remedial action reporting procedures to the
Contractor for agreement, and to the ER for approval. The ET¡¦s proposal for
rectification would be made known to the IEC.
12.1.1.3
Regular site inspections shall be carried out at
least once per week. The areas of inspection shall not be limited to the
environmental situation, pollution control and mitigation measures within the
site; it should also review the environmental situation outside the works area
which is likely to be affected, directly or indirectly, by the site activities.
The ET shall make reference to the following information in conducting the
inspection:
¡P
the EIA and EM&A recommendations on
environmental protection and pollution control mitigation measures;
¡P
ongoing results of the EM&A program;
¡P
works progress and programme;
¡P
individual works methodology proposals (which
shall include proposal on associated pollution control measures);
¡P
contract specifications on environmental
protection and pollution prevention control;
¡P
relevant environmental protection and pollution
control laws; and
¡P
previous site inspection results undertaken by
the ET and others.
12.1.1.4
The Contractor shall 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 shall be submitted to the IEC and the Contractor within 24 hours for reference and for
taking immediate remedial action.
The Contractor shall follow the procedures and time-frame stipulated in
the environmental site inspection, and the deficiency and remedial action
reporting system formulated by the ET Leader, to report on any remedial
measures subsequent to the site inspections.
12.1.1.5
The ET shall 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, as specified in the Action Plan for EM&A.
12.2.1.1
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.
12.2.1.2
In order that the works are in compliance with
the contractual requirements, all works method statements submitted by the
Contractor to the ER for approval shall be sent to the ET Leader for vetting to
see whether sufficient environmental protection and pollution control measures
have been included. The
implementation schedule of mitigation measures is summarised in Appendix C.
12.2.1.3
The ET Leader shall also review the progress and
programme of the works to check that relevant environmental laws have not been
violated, and that any foreseeable potential for violating laws can be
prevented.
12.2.1.4
The Contractor shall regularly copy relevant
documents to the ET Leader so that works checking could be carried out
effectively. The document shall at
least include the updated Works Progress Reports, updated Works Programme, any
application letters for different licence / permits under the environmental
protection laws, and copies of all valid licences / permits. The site diary shall also be available
for the ET Leader's inspection upon his request.
12.2.1.5
After reviewing the documentation, the ET Leader
shall advise the Contractor of any non-compliance with contractual and
legislative requirements on environmental protection and pollution control for
them to take follow-up actions. If
the ET Leader's review concludes that the current status on licence / permit
application and any environmental protection and pollution control preparation
works may result in potential violation of environmental protection and
pollution control requirements, he shall also advise the Contractor accordingly.
12.2.1.6
Upon receipt of the advice, the Contractor shall
undertake immediate action to remedy the situation. The ER shall follow up to ensure that
appropriate action has been taken in order to satisfy contractual and legal
requirements.
12.3.1.1
Complaints shall be referred to the ET Leader
for action. The ET Leader shall
undertake the following procedures upon receipt of any complaint:
i. log
complaint and date of receipt onto the complaint database and inform the IEC immediately;
ii. investigate
the complaint to determine its validity, and assess whether the source of the
problem is due to works activities;
iii. identify
mitigation measures in consultation with the IEC if a complaint is valid and due to works;
iv. advise
the Contractor if mitigation measures are required;
v. review
the Contractor's response to identified mitigation measures, and the updated
situation;
vi. if
the complaint is transferred from the EPD, submit interim report to the EPD on
status of the complaint investigation and follow-up action within the time
frame assigned by the EPD;
vii. undertake
additional monitoring and audit to verify the situation if necessary, and
review that circumstances leading to the complaint do not recur;
viii. report
investigation results and subsequent actions to complainant (if the source of
complaint is identified through EPD, the results should be reported within the
timeframe assigned by EPD); and
ix. record
the complaint, investigation, the subsequent actions and the results in the
monthly EM&A reports.
A flow chart
of the complaint response procedure is shown below:
13.1.1.1
Reports can be provided in an electronic medium
upon agreeing the format with the ER and EPD. This would enable a transition
from a paper / historic and reactive approach to an electronic / real time
proactive approach. All the
monitoring data (baseline and impact) shall also be submitted in electronic
format. The formats for air quality, noise, water quality and landfill gas
monitoring data to be submitted are shown in Appendix B.
13.1.1.2
Types of reports that the ET Leader shall 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 shall be made available to the Director of Environmental Protection.
13.2.1.1
To facilitate public inspection of the baseline
monitoring report and various EM&A reports via the EIAO Internet website
and at the EIAO register office, electronic copies of these reports shall be
prepared in Hyper Text Markup Language (HTML) (version 4.0 or later) and in
Portable Document Format (PDF Adobe 11 Pro version or later), unless otherwise
agreed by EPD and shall be submitted at the same time as the hardcopies. For
the HTML version, a content page capable of providing hyperlink to each section
and sub-section of these reports shall be included at the beginning of the
document. Hyperlinks to all figures, drawings and tables in these reports shall
be provided in the main text from where the respective references are made. All
graphics in these reports shall be in interlaced GIF format unless otherwise
agreed by EPD. The content of the electronic copies of these reports must be
the same as the hard copies. The summary of the monitoring data taken shall be
included in the various EM&A Reports to allow for public inspection via the
EIAO Internet website.
13.3.1.1
Baseline Environmental Monitoring Report(s)
shall be prepared within 10 working days of completion of the baseline
monitoring and then certified by the ET Leader. Copies of the Baseline
Environmental Monitoring Report shall be submitted to the Contractor, the IEC, the ER and the EPD. The ET
Leader shall liaise with the relevant parties on the exact number of copies
they require. The report format and baseline monitoring data format shall be
agreed with the EPD prior to submission.
13.3.1.2
The baseline monitoring report shall include,
but not be limited to 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 soft
copies) together with the following information:
-
monitoring methodology;
-
name of laboratory and types of equipment used
and calibration details;
-
parameters monitored;
-
monitoring locations (and depth);
-
monitoring date, time, frequency and duration;
and
-
QA / QC results and detection limits.
vi.
details
on influencing factors, including:
-
major activities, if any, being carried out on
the site during the period;
-
weather conditions during the period; and
-
other
factors which might affect results.
vii.
determination
of the Action and Limit Levels (A/L levels) for each monitoring parameter and
statistical analysis of the baseline data, the analysis shall conclude if there
is any significant difference between control and impact stations for the
parameters monitored;
viii.
revisions
for inclusion in the EM&A Manual; and
ix.
comments,
recommendations and conclusions.
13.4.1.1
The results and findings of all EM&A work
required in the Manual shall be recorded in the monthly EM&A reports
prepared by the ET Leader. The EM&A report shall be prepared and submitted
within 10 working days at the end of each reporting month, with the first
report due the month after construction commences. Each monthly EM&A report shall be
submitted to the following parties: the Contractor, the IEC, the ER and EPD. Before
submission of the first EM&A report, the ET Leader shall liaise with the
parties on the required number of copies and format of the monthly reports in
both hard copy and electronic medium.
13.4.1.2
The ET leader shall 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.
First Monthly EM&A Report
13.4.1.3
The first monthly EM&A report shall include
at least but not be limited to the following:
i.
executive summary (1-2 pages):
-
breaches of AL levels;
-
complaint log;
-
notifications of any summons and successful
prosecutions;
-
reporting changes; and
-
future
key issues.
ii.
basic
project information:
-
project organisation including key personnel
contact names and telephone numbers;
-
construction programme with fine tuning of
construction activities showing the inter-relationship with environmental
protection/mitigation measures for the month;
-
management structure, and
-
works
undertaken during the month.
iii.
environmental status:
-
works undertaken
during the month with illustrations (such as location of works, daily
dredging/filling rates, percentage of fines in the fill materials used, etc);
and
-
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).
iv.
a
brief summary of EM&A
requirements including:
-
all monitoring
parameters;
-
environmental quality performance limits (AL
levels);
-
Event-Action Plans;
-
environmental mitigation measures, as
recommended in the Final EIA report; and
-
environmental
requirements in contract documents.
v.
implementation status:
-
advice
on the implementation status of environmental protection and pollution control
/ mitigation measures, as recommended in the Final EIA report, summarised in
the updated implementation schedule.
vi.
monitoring
results (in both hard and diskette copies) together with the following
information:
-
monitoring
methodology;
-
name of laboratory and types of equipment used
and calibration details;
-
parameters monitored;
-
monitoring locations (and depth);
-
monitoring date, time, frequency, and duration;
-
weather conditions during the period;
-
graphical plots
of the monitored parameters in the month annotated against:
o
the
major activities being carried out on site during the period;
o
weather
conditions that may affect the results; and
o
any
other factors which might affect the monitoring results;
-
any other
factors which might affect the monitoring results; and
-
QA / QC
results and detection limits.
vii.
report
on non-compliance, complaints, notifications of summons and successful prosecutions:
-
record of all non-compliance (exceedances) of
the environmental quality performance limits (AL levels);
-
record of all 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;
-
record of all notification of summons and
successful prosecutions for breaches of current environmental protection /
pollution control legislations, including locations and nature of the breaches,
investigation, follow-up actions taken, results and summary;
-
review of the reasons for and the implications
of non-compliance, complaints, summons and prosecutions including review of
pollution sources and working procedures; and
-
description
of the actions taken in the event of non-compliance and deficiency reporting
and any follow-up procedures related to earlier non-compliance.
viii.
others:
-
an account
of the future key issues as reviewed from the works programme and work method
statements;
-
advice on the solid and liquid waste management
status;
-
a forecast of the works programme, impact
predictions and monitoring schedule for the next three months;
-
compare and contrast the EM&A data with the
EIA predictions and annotate with explanation for any discrepancies; and
-
comments (for examples, effectiveness and
efficiency of the mitigation measures), recommendations (for example, any improvement in the EM&A programme) and
conclusions.
Subsequent monthly EM&A
Reports
13.4.1.4
Subsequent monthly EM&A reports shall
include the following:
i.
executive summary (1 - 2 pages):
-
breaches
of AL levels;
-
complaints
log;
-
notifications
of any summons and successful prosecutions;
-
reporting
changes; and
-
future
key issues.
ii.
environmental status:
-
construction
programme with fine tuning of construction activities showing the
inter-relationship with environmental protection / mitigation measures for the
month;
-
works
undertaken during the month with illustrations including key personnel contact
names and telephone numbers; and
-
drawing
showing the project area, any environmental sensitive receivers and the
locations of the monitoring and control stations.
iii.
implementation status:
-
advice
on the implementation status of environmental protection and pollution control
/ mitigation measures, as recommended in the Final EIA report, summarised in
the updated implementation schedule.
iv.
monitoring results (in both hard and diskette
copies) together with the following information:
-
monitoring
methodology;
-
name of
laboratory and types of equipment used and calibration details;
-
parameters
monitored;
-
monitoring
locations (and depth);
-
monitoring
date, time, frequency, and duration;
-
weather
conditions during the period;
-
graphical
plots of the monitored parameters in the month annotated against;
o
the
major activities being carried out on site during the period;
o
weather
conditions that may affect the results; and
o
any
other factors which might affect the monitoring results.
-
any
other factors which might affect the monitoring results; and
-
QA / QC
results and detection limits.
v.
report on non-compliance, complaints, and
notifications of summons and successful prosecutions:
-
record
of all non-compliance (exceedances) of the environmental quality performance
limits (AL levels);
-
record
of all 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;
-
record
of all notification of summons and successful prosecutions for breaches of
current environmental protection / pollution control legislations, including
locations and nature of the breaches, investigation, follow-up actions taken, results
and summary;
-
review
of the reasons for and the implications of non-compliance, complaints, summons
and prosecutions including review of pollution sources and working procedures;
and
-
description
of the actions taken in the event of non-compliance and deficiency reporting
and any follow-up procedures related to earlier non-compliance.
vi.
others:
-
an
account of the future key issues as reviewed from the works programme and work
method statements;
-
advice
on the solid and liquid waste management status;
-
a
forecast of the works programme, impact predictions and monitoring schedule for
the next three months;
-
compare
and contrast the EM&A data with the EIA predictions and annotate with
explanation for any discrepancies; and
-
comments
(for examples, effectiveness and efficiency of the mitigation measures),
recommendations (for example, any improvement in the EM&A programme) and
conclusions.
vii. appendix
-
AL
levels;
-
graphical
plots of trends of monitored parameters at key stations over the past four
reporting periods for representative monitoring stations annotated against the
following:
o
major
activities being carried out on site during the period;
o
weather
conditions during the period; and
o
any
other factors that might affect the monitoring results.
-
monitoring
schedule for the present and next reporting period;
-
cumulative
statistics on complaints, notifications of summons and successful prosecutions;
-
outstanding
issues and deficiencies
13.5.1.1
A quarterly EM&A summary report of around
five pages shall be produced by the ET Leader and shall contain at least the
following information. Apart from these, the first quarterly summary report
should also confirm that 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. Each quarterly EM&A report shall be
submitted to the following parties: the IEC, the ER and EPD.
i.
executive summary (1 - 2 pages);
ii.
basic project information including a synopsis
of the project organisation, programme, contacts of key management, and a
synopsis of works undertaken during the quarter;
iii.
a brief summary of EM&A requirements
including:
-
monitoring
parameters;
-
environmental
quality performance limits (AL levels); and
-
environmental
mitigation measures, as recommended in the Final EIA report.
iv.
advice
on the implementation status of environmental protection and pollution control
/ mitigation measures, as recommended in the Final EIA report,
summarised in the updated implementation schedule;
v.
drawings showing the project area, any
environmental sensitive receivers and the locations of the monitoring and
control stations;
vi.
graphical plots of the trends of monitored
parameters over the past four months (the last month of the previous quarter and the present quarter) for representative
monitoring stations annotated against:
-
the
major activities being carried out on site during the period;
-
weather
conditions during the period; and
-
any
other factors which might affect the monitoring results.
vii. advice
on the solid and liquid waste management status;
viii. a
summary of non-compliance (exceedances) of the environmental quality
performance limits (AL levels);
ix.
a brief review of the reasons for and the
implications of non-compliance, including a review of pollution sources and working
procedures;
x.
a summary description of the actions taken in
the event of non-compliance and any follow-up procedures related to earlier
non-compliance;
xi.
a summarised record of all complaints received
(written or verbal) for each media, liaison and consultation undertaken,
actions and follow-up procedures taken;
xii. a
summary record 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;
xiii. comments
(for examples, a review of the effectiveness and efficiency of the mitigation
measures and the performance of the environmental management system, that is,
of the overall EM&A programme); recommendations (for example, any
improvement in the EM&A programme) and conclusions for the quarter; and
xiv.
proponents'
contacts and any hotline telephone number for the public to make enquiries.
13.6.1.1
The
EM&A program shall be terminated upon completion of those
construction activities that have the potential to result in a significant
environmental impact.
13.6.1.2
Prior to the proposed termination, it may be
advisable to consult relevant local communities (such as village
representatives/communities and/or District Boards). The proposed termination
should only be implemented after the proposal has been endorsed by the IEC, the Engineer and the
Project proponent followed by final approval from the Director of Environmental
Protection.
13.6.1.3
The final EM&A report should be prepared by
the ET Leader and contain at least the following information. The Final EM&A Review report shall
be submitted to the following parties: the IEC, the ER and EPD.
i.
executive summary (1 - 2 pages);
ii.
basic project information including a synopsis
of the project organisation, contacts of key management, and a synopsis of work
undertaken during the course of the project or past twelve months;
iii.
a brief summary of EM&A requirements
including:
-
monitoring
parameters;
-
environmental
quality performance limits (AL levels); and
-
environmental
mitigation measures, as recommended in the Final EIA report.
iv.
advice
on the implementation status of environmental protection and pollution control
/ mitigation measures, as recommended in the Final EIA report,
summarised in the updated implementation status proformas;
v.
drawings showing the project area, any
environmental sensitive receivers and the locations of the monitoring and control stations;
vi.
graphical
plots of the trends of monitored parameters over the course of the project, including the post-project monitoring for all
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; and
-
the
return of ambient environmental conditions in comparison with baseline data.
vii. compare
and contrast the EM&A data with the EIA predictions and annotate with
explanation for any discrepancies;
viii. provide
clear-cut decisions on the environmental acceptability of the project with
reference to the specific impact hypothesis;
ix.
advice on the solid and liquid waste management
status;
x.
a summary of non-compliance (exceedances) of the
environmental quality performance limits (AL levels);
xi.
a brief review of the reasons for and the implications of non-compliance including
review of pollution sources and working procedures;
xii. a summary description of the actions
taken in the event of non-compliance and any follow-up procedures related to
earlier non-compliance;
xiii. a
summary record of all complaints received (written or verbal) for each media,
liaison and consultation undertaken, actions and follow-up procedures taken;
xiv. review
monitoring methodology adopted and with the benefit of hindsight, comment on
its effectiveness (including cost effectiveness);
xv. a
summary record of notifications of summons and successful prosecutions for
breaches of the current environmental protection/pollution control
legislations, locations and nature of breaches, investigation, follow-up
actions taken and results;
xvi. present
the water quality monitoring data as obtained in the three-month impact monitoring
programme at KTN after commissioning of this Project, elaborate comparison of
these data with the EPD's long term river water quality at the same stations to
verify if there is any significant water quality change, summarize the result
of the impact monitoring programme, and provide clear-cut advice on whether
adverse impact on Kai Tak Nullah is identified;
xvii. review
the practicality and effectiveness of the EIA process and EM&A programme
(for examples, a review of the effectiveness and efficiency of the mitigation
measures and the performance of the environmental management system, that is,
of the overall EM&A programme), recommendations (for example, any
improvement in the EM&A programme); and
xviii.
a conclusion
to state the return of ambient and / or the predicted scenario as per EIA
findings.
13.7.1.1
No site-based documents (such as monitoring
field records, laboratory analysis records, site inspection forms, etc.) are
required to be included in the monthly EM&A reports. However, any such document shall be well
kept by the ET Leader and be ready for inspection upon request. All relevant
information shall be clearly and systematically recorded in the document.
Monitoring data shall also be recorded in electronic format, and the software
copy must be available upon request. Data format shall be agreed with the EPD.
All documents and data shall be kept for at least one year following completion
of the construction contract.
13.8.1.1
With reference to the Event and Action Plan,
when the environmental quality performance limits are exceeded, the ET Leader
shall immediately notify the IEC
and EPD, as appropriate. The notification shall be followed up with advice to IEC and EPD on the results of
the investigation, proposed actions and success of the actions taken, with any
necessary follow-up proposals. A sample template for the interim notifications
is presented in Appendix
D.