CONTENTS
1.5 Scope of the EM&A Programme
1.6 Organisation & Structure of the EM&A
1.7 Structure of the EM&A Manual
4.4 Impact Monitoring for
Construction Noise
4.5 Event and Action Plan for Noise
5.1 Construction Phase Monitoring
6. WASTE
MANAGEMENT AND LAND CONTAMINATION
7.3 Construction Phase Monitoring and
Audit
7.4 Operation Phase Monitoring and
Audit
10.3 Monitoring and Audit Requirements
11.2 Compliance with Legal &
Contractual Requirements
12.2 Baseline Monitoring Report
12.6 Electronic Reporting of EM&A
Information
12.7 Interim Notifications of
Environmental Quality Limit Exceedances
Tables
Table 1.1 Summary of Project Scope
Table 1.2 Tentative Construction Schedule
Table 1.3 Summary of EM&A Parameters
Table 4.1 Proposed Construction Noise Monitoring
Location
Table 4.2 Action and Limit Levels for
Construction Noise Monitoring
Table 4.3 Event and Actions for Construction
Noise Monitoring
Table 5.1 Water
Quality Monitoring Parameters and Frequency during the Construction Phase
Table 5.2 Proposed
Water Quality Monitoring Stations for the Construction Phase
Table 5.3 Action
and Limit Level for Water Quality Monitoring during the Construction Phase of
the Project (based on the result of the Baseline Report)
Table 5.4 Event
and Action Plan for Water Quality Monitoring during the Construction Phase of
the Project
Table 10.1 Monitoring
Programme for Landscape and Visual
Table 10.2 Preliminary
Funding, Implementation, Management and Maintenance Proposal
Table 10.3 Event
and Action Plan for Landscape and Visual
Figures
Figure 1.1 Layout Plan
Figure 1.2 Location Plan of Proposed Barrage
Figure 4.1 Location of Noise Monitoring Station
Figure 5.1 Water Quality Monitoring Station
Annexes
Annex A Implementation
Schedule of Recommended Mitigation Measures
Annex B Noise
Monitoring Field Record Sheet
Annex C Complaint
Log
Annex D Sample Template for Interim
Notifications of Environmental Quality Limits Exceedances
1.1.1
The Drainage Master Plan Studies for the Yuen Long, Kam Tin, Ngau Tam Mei and Tin Shui Wai Drainage Basin (YLDMP) were
completed in 1998 respectively. The majority of the improvement works in Yuen
Long and Kam Tin recommended under the YLDMP Study have been completed. Since
completion of the DMP Studies, there were changes in developments within the
areas and new development proposals and town planning studies were
commissioned. In addition, some new flooding complaints were received on the
upstream areas of the drainage basins, indicating that further improvement to
the drainage systems were required.
1.1.2
Drainage Services Department (DSD) commissioned the “Review
of Drainage Master Plans in Yuen Long and North Districts – Feasibility Study”
(the DMP Review Study) in 2008 so that the new development scenarios could be
incorporated and the effectiveness of the previously recommended works could
also be assessed.
1.1.3
The Review Study completed in end 2011 identified that some
areas in Yuen Long District could not meet the required flood protection level
according to the latest land use changes and future developments taking into
account various factors, including sedimentation at the downstream main
channels, mangrove growth at river estuaries, updated extreme sea level statistics
at Tsim Bei Tsui and projected Climate Change
impacts, in the hydraulics analysis. To account for the severity and extent of
possible flooding and the works implementation time, the Review Study proposed
drainage improvement works in Yuen Long District.
1.1.4
In August 2016, the Development Bureau signed out a Project
Definition Statement (PDS) to justify and define the scope of the “Yuen Long
Barrage Scheme” (YLBS). The Technical Feasibility Study (TFS) completed by DSD
that confirms the feasibility of the Project and was approved by DEVB in
September 2016 and the Project was subsequently included in Cat B under PWP
Item No. 4178D in October 2017. Details of the Project are provided in Section 1.3 below.
1.2.1
Black & Veatch Hong Kong Limited
(BV) was commissioned by DSD to undertake the Environmental Impact Assessment
(EIA) Study of the Project (the Assignment).
An EIA Study addressing the requirements of the Hong Kong Environmental Impact Assessment Ordinance
(EIAO) has been prepared. This
Environmental Monitoring and Audit (EM&A) Manual (the Manual) is a
supplementary document to the EIA Report.
1.2.2
The Manual has been prepared in
accordance with the EIA Study Brief (No. ESB-307/2018) and the Technical Memorandum of the Environmental
Impact Assessment Process (EIAO-TM). The purpose of the Manual is to provide
information, guidance and instruction to personnel charged with environmental
duties and those responsible for undertaking EM&A work during construction
and operation of the Project. It
provides systematic procedures for monitoring and auditing the environmental
performance of the Project. This Manual
contains the following information:
·
Appropriate background information on the construction of the Project
with reference to relevant technical reports;
·
Responsibilities of the Contractor(s), Environmental Team (ET), and the
Independent Environmental Checker (IEC) with respect to the EM&A
requirements during the implementation of the Project;
·
Project organisation;
·
Requirements with respect to the construction and operational programme
schedule and the necessary EM&A programme to track the varying
environmental impact;
·
Descriptions of the parameters to be monitored and criteria through
which performance will be assessed including: monitoring frequency and
methodology, monitoring locations (typically, the location of sensitive
receivers as listed in the EIA), monitoring equipment lists, event contingency
plans for exceedances of established criteria and schedule of mitigation and
best practice methods for reduced adverse environmental impacts;
·
Procedures for undertaking on-site environmental performance audits as a
means of ensuring compliance with environmental criteria;
·
Details of the methodologies to be adopted including field, laboratory
and analytical procedures, and details on quality assurance and quality control
(QA/QC) programme;
·
Preliminary definition of Action and Limit (A/L) levels;
·
Establishment of Event and Action plans (EAPs);
·
Requirements for reviewing pollution sources and working procedures
required in the event of exceedances of applicable environmental criteria
and/or receipt of complaints;
·
Requirements for presentation of EM&A data and appropriate reporting
procedures; and
·
Requirements for review of EIA predictions and the effectiveness of the
mitigation measures and the EM&A programme.
Project Scope
1.3.1
The scope of the Project includes reviewing the proposed
drainage works and developing detailed designs for the YLBS. In retaining the
technical feasibility and resilience towards climate change, the flood
protection scheme also comprises revitalisation of
the nullah in tandem with blue-green infrastructures. A location plan of
the Project is shown in Figure
1.1. The
proposed layout of the YLBS is provided in Figure
1.2.
1.3.2
The scope, description and scale of the Project are summarised in Table 1.1.
Table 1.1 Summary of Project Scope
Proposed
Works |
Description
and Scale of Works |
Construction of Pumping Stations |
A pumping station, housing
in two structures, are located at the western and eastern banks of the
downstream YLN. With a total footprint of approx. 3,300 m2, the
pumping station is also equipped with low flow pumps to be operated during
dry season. |
Construction of Tidal Barrier |
The tidal
barrier would be divided into bays, whereby each segment can be opened at
various angles at the operator’s discretion. Upon completion, the gates would
span across YLN at a width of approx. 50 m. |
Construction of E&M Control Room |
The E&M control
room, with a footprint of approx. 1,300 m2, houses all the E&M
apparatus & facilities for public enjoyment among other ground level open
areas. |
Construction of Link Bridge |
The link bridge
provides an access for maintenance personnel between Wang Lok Street and Shan
Pui Ho East Road and utility crossings. With intermediate piers, the bridge
would be situated downstream of the pumping station, which spans approx. 110
m across the nullah. |
Local Widening and Deepening of YLN |
The proposed
works at YLN would widen the nullah by 10 m on each side and deepen its
bottom to facilitate flow intake to the pumping station. Inflow-guiding
structures would be constructed to direct flow towards the pumping station. |
Construction & Modification of Parapet Walls |
An additional
height of approx. 200 mm at the top of the existing parapet walls along KTR
and additional parapet walls along YLN and Sham Chung River (SCR) would be
constructed. The extent of works is approx. 3,000 m in total for both banks
of KTR and approx. 800 m in total for both banks at YLN & SCR. |
Refinements to the existing intersection
of YLN & YLBF |
The proposed
works will involve minor excavation and concreting works at the existing
concrete diversion structure, resulting in the diversion of additional flow
to YLBF for the barrage’s operation at the downstream. |
Revitalisation of YLN |
With the
completion of YLBS, there exists revitalisation opportunities within YLN. At
a length of approx. 2,100 m, vegetation & landscape components would
be introduced to enhance the nullah’s biodiversity and social connectivity. |
Decommissioning of the Existing Low Flow Pumping Station (LFPS)
& Inflatable Dam |
The function of
the existing Kau Hui LFPS and the associated existing inflatable dam that
spans approx. 75 m across YLN would be replaced by the tidal barrier of the
barrage, thus would be decommissioned. |
Construction Programme
1.3.3 The construction programme for the Project is tentatively expected to commence in fourth quarter of 2022 for completion in late 2029. The Project will be constructed in sections as shown in Figure 1.1. The tentative key milestone dates are tabulated in Table 1.2 below.
Table 1.2 Tentative
Construction Schedule
Year |
2022 |
2023 |
2024 |
2025 |
2026 |
2027 |
2028 |
2029 |
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Quarter |
4 |
1 |
2 |
3 |
4 |
1 |
2 |
3 |
4 |
1 |
2 |
3 |
4 |
1 |
2 |
3 |
4 |
1 |
2 |
3 |
4 |
1 |
2 |
3 |
4 |
1 |
2 |
3 |
4 |
Section A: Construction of
Barrage Scheme Elements |
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Construction of E&M
Control Room |
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Construction of Pumping
Station A |
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Construction of Pumping
Station B |
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Construction of Tidal
Barrier & Deepened Area C |
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Section B: Modification of
Flow Diversion Structures in the intersection of YLN and YLBF |
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Demolition |
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Excavation |
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Concreting works |
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Section C: Construction and
Modification of Parapet Wall along YLN, SCR and KTR |
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YLN (Kung Um Road) |
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Sham Chung River |
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Kam Tin River |
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Section D: Revitalisation Works in YLN |
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Temporary Flow |
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Surface breaking along YLN |
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Softscape & Hardscape |
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Construction Works
1.3.4
Construction of the proposed Project comprises the following
key activities:
·
Construction of the Barrage scheme;
·
Modification of flow diversion structures in the intersection of Yuen
Long Nullah (YLN) and Yuen Long Bypass Floodway (YLBF);
·
Modification of parapet wall along YLN, SCR and KTR; and
·
Revitalisation Works in YLN.
1.3.5
Construction of the barrage generally involves common civil engineering
construction activities such as site clearance, excavation, formwork,
substructure and superstructure construction, concreting, landscaping and
E&M installation. Revitalisation of YLN involves
smaller scale construction activities such as breaking of nullah bed,
excavation and landscaping.
1.4.1
The broad objective of this Manual is to define the procedures of the
EM&A programme for monitoring the environmental performance of the Project
during design, construction and operation.
The construction and operational impacts arising from the implementation
of the Project are described in the EIA Report.
The EIA Report also specifies mitigation measures and good construction
practices that will be needed to comply with the environmental criteria or
further minimise the potential impacts.
These mitigation measures and their implementation requirements are
presented in the Implementation Schedule of Mitigation Measures (see Annex A).
1.4.2
The main objectives of the EM&A programme are to:
·
Provide baseline information against which any short or long term
environmental impacts of the projects can be determined;
·
Provide an early indication should any of the environmental control
measures or practices fail to achieve the acceptable standards;
·
Monitor the performance of the Project and the effectiveness of
mitigation measures;
·
Verify the environmental impacts identified in the EIA;
·
Determine Project compliance with regulatory requirements, standards and
government policies;
·
Take remedial action if unexpected results or unacceptable impacts
arise; and
·
Provide data to enable an environmental audit to be undertaken at
regular intervals.
1.4.3
The EIA Study indicates that an EM&A programme will be required for the pre-construction,
construction and operation phases of this Project. A summary of the requirements for each of the
environmental parameters is detailed in Table
1.3.
Table 1.3 Summary of EM&A Parameters
Parameter |
Phases |
||
Pre-Construction Phase |
Construction Phase |
Operation Phase |
|
Air Quality |
- |
SI |
- |
Noise |
M |
M + SI |
- |
Water Quality |
M |
M + SI |
- |
Waste |
- |
SI |
- |
Ecology |
M |
M + SI |
- |
Cultural Heritage |
SI (c) |
SI |
- |
Landscape and Visual |
SI (d) |
SI |
SI |
Notes: (a)
M – Environmental
monitoring (b)
SI - Site inspection (c)
Prion to construction, condition survey before commencement of
construction works. (d)
Prior to construction, vegetation survey and photographic record of the
Project Site at the time of the Contractor’s possession. |
1.5.1 The scope of this EM&A programme is to:
·
Establish baseline noise levels at specified locations and implement
monitoring requirements for noise monitoring programme during construction;
·
Establish baseline water quality levels for water quality monitoring and
implement monitoring requirements for water quality monitoring programme during
construction;
·
Establish baseline ecological condition for ecological monitoring during
construction;
·
Establish condition survey of heritage buildings and structures for
vibration monitoring during construction;
·
Establish baseline landscape and visual resources for landscape and
visual monitoring and audit during construction;
·
Implement inspection and audit requirements for air quality, noise,
water quality, waste management, ecology, cultural heritage and landscape and
visual impacts;
·
Liaise with, and provide environmental advice (as requested or when
otherwise necessary) to construction site staff on the significance and implications
of the environmental monitoring data;
·
Identify and resolve environmental issues and other functions as they
may arise from the works;
·
Check and quantify the Contractor(s)’s overall environmental
performance, implementation of Event and Action Plans (EAPs), and remedial
actions taken to mitigate adverse environmental effects as they may arise from
the works;
·
Conduct monthly reviews of monitored impact data as the basis for
assessing compliance with the defined criteria and to verify that necessary mitigation
measures are identified and implemented, and to undertake additional ad hoc
monitoring and auditing as required by special circumstances;
·
Evaluate and interpret environmental monitoring data to provide an early
indication should any of the environmental control measures or practices fail
to achieve the acceptable standards, and to verify the environmental impacts
predicted in the EIA;
·
Manage and liaise with other individuals or parties concerning other
environmental issues deemed to be relevant to the construction process;
·
Conduct regular site inspections and audits of a formal or informal
nature to assess:
o the level of the Contractor’s general environmental awareness;
o the Contractor’s
implementation of the recommendations in the EIA and their contractual
obligations;
o the Contractor’s
performance as measured by the EM&A;
o the need for specific
mitigation measures to be implemented or the continued usage of those
previously agreed; and
o to advise the site
staff of any identified potential environmental issues;
·
Produce monthly EM&A reports which summarise EM&A data, with
full interpretation illustrating the acceptability or otherwise of any
environmental impacts and identification or assessment of the implementation
status of agreed mitigation measures.
1.6.1 The EM&A will require the involvement of the Project Proponent (DSD), Engineer Representative (ER), ET, IEC and the Contractor(s). The roles and responsibilities of the various parties involved in the EM&A process are further expanded in the following section.
Project
Organisation
1.6.2 DSD will establish an ET to conduct the site inspection and monitoring and, to provide specialist advice on implementation of environmental responsibilities.
1.6.3 The ET will have previous relevant experience with managing similarly sized EM&A programmes and the ET Leader will be a recognised environmental professional, with a minimum of seven years relevant experience in EM&A or environmental management. The ET Leader will be responsible for, and in charge of, the ET; and will be the person responsible for executing the EM&A requirements, and to provide advice (if required) on environmental clauses for Contract Specifications of the Project.
1.6.4 DSD will appoint an IEC to verify and validate/ audit the environmental performance of the Contractor(s) and works of the ET, and to maintain strict control of the EM&A process. The IEC will have previous relevant experience with checking and auditing similarly sized EM&A programmes and the IEC will be a recognised environmental professional, with a minimum of seven years relevant experience in EM&A or environmental management.
Roles
& Responsibilities
1.6.5 Roles and responsibilities of DSD and their ER, Contractor(s), the ET and the IEC are detailed in Sections 1.6.6 through 1.6.10.
1.6.6 DSD will:
· Establish an ET to
undertake monitoring, laboratory analysis and reporting of environmental
monitoring data, and site inspection of construction works; and
· Employ an IEC to
audit and verify the overall environmental performance of the works and to
assess the effectiveness of the ET in their duties.
1.6.7
The ER of DSD will:
· Supervise the Contractor’s
activities and confirm that the requirements in the EM&A Manual and the
Contract Documents are fully complied with;
· Develop appropriate
contract clauses to confirm that the Contractor(s) will have qualified
professionals to interface with the DSD/ ER / ET /IEC to fulfil the EIA/EP
requirements;
· Inform the
Contractor(s) when action is required to reduce impacts in accordance with the
EAPs;
· Adhere to the
procedures for carrying out complaint investigation; and
· Participate in joint
site inspections undertaken by the ET and IEC.
1.6.8 The Contractor(s) are responsible to:
·
Implement the
EIA recommendations and requirements;
·
Work within the scope of the construction contract and other regulatory
requirements;
·
Provide assistance to the ET in carrying out environmental monitoring
and site inspections;
·
Submit proposals on mitigation measures in case of exceedances of the
A/L levels in accordance with the EAPs;
·
Implement measures to reduce impact where A/L levels are exceeded;
·
Implement the corrective actions instructed by DSD / ER / ET / IEC;
·
Participate in the site inspections undertaken by the ET and IEC, as
required, and undertake any corrective actions instructed by DSD / ER / ET /
IEC; and
·
Adhere to the procedures for carrying out complaint investigation.
1.6.9 The ET will:
·
Monitor various environmental parameters as required in this Manual;
·
Assess the EM&A data and review the success of the EM&A
programme in determining the adequacy of the mitigation measures implemented
and the validity of the EIA predictions as well as identify any adverse
environmental impacts before they arise;
·
Carry out regular site inspection to investigate the Contractor’s site
practice, equipment and work methodologies with respect to pollution control
and environmental mitigation, and effect proactive action to pre-empt issues;
·
Review the Contractor’s working programme and methodology, and comment
as necessary;
·
Review and prepare reports on the environmental monitoring data and site
environmental conditions;
·
Report on the environmental monitoring results and conditions to the
IEC, Contractor(s), ER, DSD and EPD;
·
Recommend suitable mitigation measures to the Contractor(s) in the case
of exceedance of A/L levels in accordance with the EAPs; and
·
Adhere to the procedures for carrying out complaint investigation.
1.6.10 The IEC will:
·
Review and audit the implementation of the EM&A programme and the
overall level of environmental performance being achieved;
·
Arrange and conduct monthly independent site audits of the works;
·
Validate and confirm the accuracy of monitoring results, monitoring
equipment, monitoring stations, monitoring procedures and locations of
sensitive receivers;
·
Audit the EIA recommendations and requirements against the status of
implementation of environmental protection measures on site;
·
On an as needed basis, audit the Contractor’s construction methodology
and agree the appropriate, reduced impact alternative in consultation with DSD,
ER, ET and the Contractor(s);
·
Adhere to the procedures for carrying out complaint investigation;
·
Review the effectiveness of environmental mitigation measures and
project environmental performance including the proposed corrective measures;
·
Review EM&A report submitted by the ET leader and feedback audit
results to ET by signing off relevant EM&A proformas; and
·
Report the findings of site audits and other environmental performance
reviews to DSD, ER, ET, EPD and the Contractor(s).
Key
Contact
1.6.11
Key contact information, to be updated when details are available, will
be provided in a similar format as in Table 1.4.
Table 1.4 Contact
Name |
Position |
Telephone |
Facsimile |
E-mail |
DSD
– EP Holder |
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To
be confirmed ER To
be confirmed |
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Contractor(s)
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To
be confirmed |
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ET
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To
be confirmed |
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IEC
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To
be confirmed |
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1.7.1 The remainder of the Manual is organized as follows:
· Section 2 lists the EM&A general requirements;
· Section 3 describes the EM&A requirements for air quality;
· Section 4 provides the EM&A requirements for noise;
· Section 5 provides the EM&A requirements for water quality;
· Section 6 describes the audit requirements for waste management and land contamination;
· Section 7 describes the audit requirements for ecology;
· Section 8 describes the audit requirements for fisheries;
· Section 9 describes the audit requirements for cultural heritage;
· Section 10 describes the audit requirements for landscape and visual;
· Section 11 describes the scope and frequency of environmental site inspection; and
· Section 12 details the reporting requirements for the EM&A programme.
· Annex A includes the implementation schedule of recommended mitigation measures.
· Annex B provides a construction phase noise monitoring field record sheet.
· Annex C provides sample complaint log.
· Annex D provides sample template for interim notifications of environmental quality limits exceedances
2.1.1
This section describes the general requirements of the EM&A programme
for the Project. The scope of the
programme is developed with reference to the findings and recommendations of
the EIA Report.
General
2.2.1 Potential environmental impacts, which were identified during the EIA process and are associated with the construction phase of the Project, will be addressed through the monitoring and controls specified in this Manual and in the construction contracts.
2.2.2 During the construction phase of the Project, noise, water quality, ecology will be subject to EM&A, whilst environmental audit being undertaken for air quality, construction waste management, cultural heritage and landscape and visual as recommended in the EIA. Monitoring of the effectiveness of the mitigation measures will be achieved through the environmental monitoring programme as well as through site inspections. The inspections will include within their scope, mechanisms to review and assess the Contractor(s)’s environmental performance, ensuring that the recommended mitigation measures have been properly implemented, and that the timely resolution of received complaints are managed and controlled in a manner consistent with the recommendations of the EIA Report.
Environmental Monitoring
2.2.3
The environmental monitoring work throughout the
Project period will be carried out in accordance with this EM&A and
reported by the ET. Monitoring works
will cover noise, water quality and ecology and will form an important part of
the whole EM&A programme.
Action and Limit (A/L) Levels
2.2.4 A/L Levels are defined levels of impact recorded by the environmental monitoring activities which represent levels at which a prescribed response is required. These Levels are quantitatively defined later in the relevant sections of this Manual and described in principle below:
· Action Levels: levels beyond which there is a clear indication of a deteriorating environmental conditions for which appropriate remedial actions are likely to be necessary to prevent environmental quality from falling outside the Limit Levels, which would be unacceptable; and
· Limit Levels: statutory and/or agreed contract limits stipulated in the relevant pollution control ordinances, EIAO-TM, Hong Kong Planning Standards and Guidelines (HKPSG) or Environmental Quality Objectives established by the EPD. If these are exceeded, works should not proceed without appropriate remedial action, including a critical review of plant and working methods.
Event and Action Plans (EAPs)
2.2.5 The purpose of the EAPs is to provide, in association with the monitoring and audit activities, procedures for ensuring that if any significant environmental incident occurs, the cause will be quickly identified and remediated. This also applies to the exceedances of A/L Levels identified in the EM&A programme.
Site Inspections & Audits
2.2.6 In addition to noise, water quality and ecological monitoring as a means of assessing the ongoing performance of the Contractor(s), the ET will undertake site inspections of on-site practices and procedures every week. The primary objective of the inspection programme will be to assess the effectiveness of the environmental controls established by the Contractor(s) and the implementation of the environmental mitigation measures recommended in the EIA Report. The IEC will undertake monthly site audits to assess the performance of the Contractor(s) and the effectiveness of the ET.
2.2.7 Whilst the inspection and audit programme will complement the monitoring activity, the criteria against which inspections / audits to be undertaken will be derived from the Clauses within the Contract Documents which seek to enforce the recommendations of the EIA Report and the Manual.
2.2.8 The findings of site inspections and audits will be made known to the Contractor(s) at the time of the inspection to enable the rapid resolution of identified non-conformities. Non-conformities, and the corrective actions undertaken, will also be reported in the monthly EM&A Reports.
2.2.9 Section 11 of this Manual presents details of the scope and frequency of on-site inspections and defines the range of issues that the audit protocols will be designed to address.
Enquiries, Complaints and Requests for
2.2.10 Enquiries, complaints and requests for information may occur from a wide range of individuals and organisations including members of the public, Government departments, the press and television media and community groups.
2.2.11 Enquiries, complaints and requests for information concerning the environmental effects of the construction works, irrespective of how they are received, will be reported to DSD and the ER and directed to the ET which will set up procedures for the handling, investigation and storage of such information. The following steps will then be followed:
(1) The ET Leader will notify DSD and the ER of the nature of the enquiry.
(2) An investigation will be initiated to determine the validity of the complaint and to identify the source(s) of the issue.
(3) The Contractor(s) will undertake the following steps, as necessary:
· investigate and identify source(s) of the issue;
· if considered necessary by DSD following consultation with the ER and IEC, undertake additional monitoring to verify the existence and severity of the alleged complaint;
· liaise with ER, ET and IEC to identify remedial measures;
· implement the agreed mitigation measures;
· repeat the monitoring to verify effectiveness of mitigation measures; and
· repeat review procedures to identify further practical areas of improvement if the repeat monitoring results continue to substantiate the complaint.
(4) The outcome of the investigation and the action taken will be documented on a complaint log (see Annex C). A formal response to each complaint received will be prepared by the Contractor(s) within five working days and submitted to DSD, in order to notify the concerned person(s) that action(s) has been taken.
(5) Enquires which trigger this process will be reported in the monthly EM&A Reports which will include results of inspections undertaken by the Contractor(s), and details of the measures taken, and additional monitoring results (if deemed necessary). It should be noted that the receipt of complaint or enquiry will not be, in itself, a sufficient reason to introduce additional mitigation measures.
2.2.12 The complainant will be notified of the findings, and audit procedures will be put in place to verify that the issue does not recur.
Reporting
2.2.13 Baseline
and impact monitoring, monthly and final reports will be prepared by the ET on
behalf of DSD and certified by the ET Leader and verified by the IEC. The monthly EM&A Reports will be prepared
and submitted within two weeks of the end of each calendar month.
Cessation of EM&A
2.2.14 The cessation of EM&A programme is subject to the satisfactory completion of the Final EM&A Report, agreement with the IEC and approval from EPD.
2.3.1
Based
on recommendation from the EIA, audit of landscape and visual impacts are
required during the operation phase of the Project.
2.3.2
DSD
will manage the operation and maintenance of the Project through
Contractor(s). The Contractor(s) shall
ensure that all conditions of the EP, including operation phase EM&A, are
fulfilled. The ET and IEC commissioned
by DSD will undertake the EM&A as per requirements listed in Section 1.6.9 and Section 1.6.10, respectively, during operation phase.
3.1.1
According
to the EIA, no unacceptable air quality impact is anticipated
during both construction and operation phases of the Project. Therefore, no dust and odour
monitoring is considered necessary during the construction and operation phases.
3.1.2
Regular environmental site audit is
required during the construction phase to ensure the proper implementation of
control measures. Detailed site audit
requirements are specified in Section 11.
3.2.1
Weekly
site inspection will be undertaken by the ET to ensure that control measures as
proposed in the EIA Report are properly implemented to reduce potential air
quality impacts during construction.
3.8.1
The mitigation measures recommended for dust and odour
control are summarised in Annex A.
4.1.1
In accordance with the
recommendations of the EIA, mitigation measures to control impacts from noise
generating works have been the proposed for the construction phase of the
Project.
4.2.1
Construction noise monitoring is recommended to
ensure compliance with the noise criteria at the Noise Sensitive Receivers
(NSRs). Monitoring requirements are
detailed below.
Construction Noise Parameters
4.2.2
Due to the utilization of Powered Mechanical
Equipment (PME) during the construction phase of the Project, potential noise
impact to the NSRs in the vicinity of the Project Site is expected.
4.2.3
Noise measurements should be carried out in
accordance with the guidelines given in Annex – General Calibration and
Measurement Procedures of Technical Memorandum on Noise from Construction Work
other than Percussive Piling (GW-TM).
4.2.4
Construction noise level should be measured in terms
of a weighted equivalent continuous sound pressure level (Leq)
during the construction phase to check for compliance against limits. Leq (30min) should
be used as the monitoring parameter for the construction period between 0700 –
1900 hours on normal working days. For
all other time periods, Leq (5min) should be measured
for comparison with the Noise Control Ordinance (NCO) criteria. Supplementary
information for data auditing (statistical results such as L10 and L90) should
also be obtained for reference.
Monitoring Equipment
4.2.5
As referred to in the Technical Memorandum (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 should be used for carrying
out the noise monitoring. Immediately
prior to, and following, each noise measurement the accuracy of the sound level
meter should be checked using an acoustic calibrator generating a known sound
pressure level at a known frequency.
Measurements may be accepted as valid only if the calibration level from
before and after the noise measurement agrees to within 1.0 dB. Noise measurements should generally not be
made in the presence of fog, rain, wind with a steady speed exceeding 5m s-1
or wind with gusts exceeding 10m s-1. The wind speed should be checked with a
portable wind speed meter capable of measuring the wind speed in m s-1.
Monitoring Locations
4.2.6
The noise monitoring locations have been shown in Figure
4.1 and Table 4.1. The status and location of noise sensitive receiver
(NSR) may change before commencement of construction. If such cases exist, the ET Leader should
propose updated noise level monitoring locations and seek approval from the ER
and the updated locations must be agreed by the IEC and the EPD.
Table 4.1 Proposed Construction Noise Monitoring Location
Monitoring
Station ID |
NSR ID |
Description |
Minimum Distance
away from the Project (m) |
Type of Use |
CN1 |
SPCH1 |
Shan
Pui Chung Hau Tsuen |
11 |
Residential |
CN2 |
CCHS1 |
Caritas
Yuen Long Chan Chun Ha Secondary School |
10 |
Educational |
CN3 |
MTTN1 |
Ma
Tin Tsuen |
11 |
Residential |
4.2.7
When proposing alternative monitoring location, it
should be chosen based on the following criteria:
· locations that are close to the major site activities which are likely to be affected by elevated noise levels;
· close to the noise sensitive receivers; and
· for monitoring locations located in the vicinity of the sensitive receivers, care should be taken to cause minimal disturbance to the occupants during monitoring.
4.2.8
The monitoring station(s) should normally be at a
point 1 m from the exterior of the sensitive receiver building facade and be at
a position 1.2 m above the ground. If
there is a problem with access to the normal monitoring position, an
alternative position may be chosen, and a correction to the measurements should
be made. For reference, a correction of
+3 dB(A) should be made to the free field measurements. The ET Leader should agree with the IEC on
the monitoring position and the corrections adopted. Once the positions for the monitoring
stations are chosen, the baseline monitoring and the impact monitoring should
be carried out at the same position.
4.3.1
The ET should carry out baseline noise monitoring
prior to the commencement of any construction works. The baseline monitoring should be measured
for a continuous period of at least 14 consecutive days at a minimum logging
interval of 30 minutes for day-time and 15 minutes (as three consecutive Leq(5min) readings) for
4.3.2
During the baseline monitoring, there should not be
any construction activities in the vicinity of the monitoring stations. Any non-Project related construction
activities in the vicinity of the stations during the baseline monitoring
should be noted and the source(s) and location(s) be recorded.
4.3.3
In exceptional cases, when insufficient baseline
monitoring data or questionable results are obtained, the ET shall liaise with
the Engineer’s Representative (ER), IEC and EPD to agree on an appropriate set
of data to be used as a baseline reference.
4.4.1
Weekly noise monitoring should be carried out at all
the designated monitoring stations to obtain one set of 30-minute measurements
between 0700-1900 hours during working days.
General construction work carrying out during restricted hours is
controlled by CNP system under the NCO. The proposed monitoring schedule should
be submitted to ER, the IEC and EPD at least 1 week before the first day of the
monitoring month. The ER, IEC and EPD should be notified immediately of any changes in
schedule.
4.4.2
In case of non-compliance with the construction
noise criteria, more frequent monitoring as specified in the Action Plan in Table 4.2 shall be carried out. This additional monitoring should be
continued until the recorded noise levels are rectified or proved to be
irrelevant to the construction activities.
4.5.1
The Action and Limit levels for construction noise
are defined in Table 4.2. Should non-compliance of the noise quality
criteria occur, actions in accordance with the Action Plan in Table
4.3 should be carried out.
Table
4.2 Action and Limit Levels for
Construction Noise Monitoring
Time
Period |
Action
Level |
Limit
Level |
0700 – 1900 hrs on normal weekdays |
When one documented compliant is
received |
§
75 dB(A) for
residential §
70 dB(A) for schools
and 65dB(A) during school examination periods |
Table 4.3 Event and Actions for Construction Noise Monitoring
Event |
Action |
|||
ET |
IEC |
ER |
Contractor |
|
When Action Level is reached/exceeded |
1.
Notify IEC, DSD, EPD, ER and Contractor; 2.
Carry out investigation; 3.
Report the results of investigation to the IEC, DSD, EPD, ER and Contractor; 4.
Discuss with the Contractor and formulate remedial measures; 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; 3.
Supervise the implementation of remedial measures |
1.
Discuss with DSD, IEC, ET and Contractor on the proposed mitigation measures; 2.
Make agreement on the mitigation measures to be implemented. |
1.
Submit noise mitigation proposals to ER, ET and IEC; 2.
Implement noise mitigation proposals |
When Limit Level is eached/exceeded |
1.
Notify IEC, DSD, EPD, ER and Contractor; 2.
Identify source; 3.
Carry out investigation; 4.
Report the results of investigation to the IEC, DSD, EPD, ER and Contractor; 5.
Discuss with the Contractor and formulate remedial measures; 6.
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; 3.
Supervise the implementation of remedial measures |
1.
Discuss with DSD, IEC, ET and Contractor on the proposed mitigation measures; 2.
Request Contractor to critically review the working methods; 3.
Make agreement on the mitigation measures to be implemented; 4.
Assess the effectiveness of the implemented mitigation measures. |
1.
Submit noise mitigation proposals to ER, ET and IEC; 2.
Implement noise mitigation proposals |
4.6.1
According
to the EIA, no unacceptable noise impact is expected during operation of the
Project. Therefore, operational noise
monitoring is not considered necessary.
4.6.2
The
mitigation measures recommended for noise reduction and control are summarised in Annex A.
5.1.1.
In accordance with the recommendations of the EIA,
mitigation measures have been proposed during the construction phase of the
Project to ensure that unacceptable water quality impacts do not occur at the
downstream Water Sensitive Receivers (WSRs) as a result of the construction
works. Details of the mitigation
measures are presented in Section 6 of the EIA Report.
5.1.2.
In addition to the recommended mitigation measures,
water quality monitoring should be undertaken during the construction phase of
the Project to determine the environmental performance of the Project in terms
of its water quality impacts.
Appropriate remedial actions should be taken in case the environmental
performance criteria are exceeded.
Detailed monitoring requirements are presented in the following
sections.
Water
Quality Monitoring Parameters
5.2.1
Water quality parameters are chosen for monitoring
with consideration of the potential water quality impacts from the construction
of the Project (i.e. release of polluted water with high suspended sediment
(SS) load from the construction works).
This would ensure that potential impacts from construction activities of
the Project can be readily detected and timely action could be undertaken to
rectify the situation. Water quality
parameters to be measured are shown in Table 5.1.
Table
5.1 Water Quality Monitoring
Parameters and Frequency during the Construction Phase
Parameters |
Unit |
Monitoring Frequency |
||
Baseline
monitoring |
Impact
monitoring |
Post
Project monitoring |
||
In – situ Measurement |
|
|
|
|
pH |
- |
3 days per week for 4 weeks prior to the
commencement of construction works |
3 days per week throughout the
construction period |
3 days per week for 4 weeks
after the completion of construction works |
Water temperature |
ºC |
|||
Turbidity |
NTU |
|||
Dissolved Oxygen (DO) |
mg/L |
|||
Dissolved Oxygen (DO) |
% saturation |
|||
Salinity |
0/00 |
|||
Laboratory
Analysis |
||||
Suspended Solids (SS) |
mg/L |
Notes:
For monitoring stations affected by tidal condition, monitoring should be
carried out at mid-flood and mid-ebb.
5.2.2
In addition to the water quality parameters, other
relevant data should also be measured and recorded in field logs, including the
coordinates of the sampling stations and the location of construction works at
the time of sampling, tidal stages, water depth, sampling depth, weather
conditions, flowrate (m3/day), special phenomena (provide
photographs if appropriate) and work activities undertaken around the
monitoring and works area that may influence the monitoring results.
Water
Quality Monitoring Equipment
5.2.3
For water quality monitoring, the following
equipment should be supplied and used by the environmental contractor.
5.2.4
Dissolved Oxygen, Temperature and Salinity
Measuring Equipment - The
instrument should be a portable, weatherproof measuring instrument complete
with cable, sensor, comprehensive operation manuals, and should be operable
from a DC power source. It should be
capable of measuring: dissolved oxygen levels in the range of 0–20 mg/L1
and 0-200% saturation; a temperature of 0-45 °C; and a salinity of 0-35 ppt.
5.2.5
It
should have a membrane electrode with automatic temperature compensation
complete with a cable of not less than 35 m in length. Sufficient stocks of spare electrodes and
cable should 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).
5.2.6
Turbidity Measurement
Instrument - Turbidity
should be measured in situ by the nephelometric method using an
instrument that is portable and weatherproof using a DC power source with
cable, sensor, and comprehensive operation manuals. This instrument should have a photometric
sensor capable of measuring turbidity between 0 - 1000 NTU (e.g. Hach model
2100P or other approved instrument of similar type). The meter should be calibrated in order to
establish the relationship between NTU units and the levels of SS. The turbidity measurement should be carried
out on a split water sample from the same water sample collected for suspended
solids analysis.
5.2.7
pH
Measuring Equipment - A portable pH meter capable of measuring a range between 0.0 and 14.0
should be provided to measure pH under the specified conditions (e.g. Orion
Model 250A or an approved similar instrument).
5.2.8
Electromagnetic
Flow Meter - A hand-held digital electromagnetic flow meter
(e.g. model Flo-mate 2000 or other approved similar instrument) should be
provided and used to measure water flow rate during water quality
monitoring. The measurement should be
conducted at fixed sampling points and water depth throughout the monitoring programme.
5.2.9
Positioning
Device - A hand-held Global
Positioning System (GPS) with way point bearing indication or other equivalent
instrument of similar accuracy will be provided and used during monitoring to
ensure the monitoring team is at the correct location before taking
measurements.
5.2.10 Water Depth Gauge - A portable, battery-operated echo sounder
will be used for the determination of water depth at each designated monitoring
station.
5.2.11
Water Sampling Equipment - A water sampler, consisting
of a transparent PVC or glass cylinder of at least 500ml, which can be
effectively sealed at both ends, should be used (Kahlsico
Water Sampler 13SWB203 or an approved similar instrument). Water samples for SS, BOD5
measurements should be contained in high density polyethene bottles.
5.2.12
Back-up Equipment - Sufficient stocks of spare parts should be maintained
for replacements when necessary. Back-up
monitoring equipment should also be available so that monitoring can proceed
uninterrupted even when some equipment is under maintenance, calibration, etc.
Sampling
/ Testing Protocols
5.2.13 All in
situ monitoring instruments should be checked, calibrated and certified by
a laboratory accredited under HOKLAS or any other international accreditation
scheme before use, and subsequently re-calibrated at-monthly intervals
throughout all stages of the water quality monitoring. Responses of sensors and electrodes should be
checked with certified standard solutions before each use.
5.2.14 For the on-site calibration of field
equipment, the BS 1427: 1993, Guide to Field and On-Site Test Methods for the
Analysis of Waters should be observed.
Sufficient stocks of spare parts should be maintained for replacements
when necessary. Backup monitoring
equipment should also be made available so that monitoring can proceed
uninterrupted even when equipment is under maintenance, calibration etc.
5.2.15 Water samples for SS measurements should be
collected in high density polythene bottles, packed in ice (cooled to 4°
C without being frozen),
and delivered to a HOKLAS laboratory as soon as possible after collection.
5.2.16 Three replicate samples should be collected
from each of the monitoring events for in
situ measurement and lab analysis.
It is recommended to take three replicates at each sampling station from
each independent sampling event for all parameters in order to ensure a robust
statistically interpretable data set.
Laboratory Analysis
5.2.17 All laboratory work should be carried out in
a HOKLAS accredited laboratory. Water
samples of about 1,000ml should be collected at the monitoring and control
stations for carrying out the laboratory determinations. The determination work should start within
the next working day after collection of the water samples. The SS laboratory measurements should be
provided within 2 days of the sampling event (48 hours). The analyses should follow the standard
methods as described in APHA Standard Methods for the Examination of Water and
Wastewater, 21st Edition, unless otherwise specified (APHA 2540D for
SS).
5.2.18 The submitted information should include
pre-treatment procedures, instrument use, Quality Assurance/Quality Control
(QA/QC) details (such as blank, spike recovery, number of duplicate samples
per-batch etc), detection limits and accuracy. The QA/QC details should be in accordance
with requirements of HOKLAS or another internationally accredited scheme.
Monitoring
Locations
5.2.19
The monitoring stations have been established to identify
potential water quality impacts to WSRs.
Locations of the monitoring stations are shown in Figure
5.1 with the co-ordinates presented on Table 5.2. Descriptions of the monitoring stations are
as follows:
·
W1 is Impact Station while W2 is Impact Station or
Control Station depending on tidal condition. These stations are downstream of
the boundary of the Project Site. W1 is
located at the Shan Pui River and is approximately
250 m from the boundary of works, while W2 is located near the Mai Po Inner
Deep Bay Ramsar Site and is approximately 2 km from the boundary. Water quality monitoring at these two
Stations will help to determine any adverse water quality impacts to the
nearest Water Sensitive Receivers which may be caused by the Project’s
construction activities.
·
C1 and C2 are Control Stations which are approximately
2km upstream of the Project Site and not supposed to be influenced by the
construction works. These stations are
not affected by tidal condition of Shan Pui River.
Water quality monitoring data collected at C1 and C2 will be used to compare
with the Impact Stations’ data to determine any adverse water quality impacts
as a result of the construction works of the Project.
·
Mobile Stations should also be monitored for which the
location will be determined in accordance with the boundary and number of the
active works area during the time of impact monitoring. The Upstream Mobile Station should be located
about 50 m upstream of the active works area while the Downstream Mobile
Station should be located about 50 m downstream of the active works area.
Table 5.2 Proposed
Water Quality Monitoring Stations for the Construction Phase
Station |
Description |
Station
Nature |
Easting |
Northing |
|
Mid-ebb |
Mid-flood |
|
|
||
W1 |
Shan Pui
River |
Impact Station |
821405 |
835653 |
|
W2 |
Shan Pui
River near Mai Po Inner Deep Bay Ramsar Site |
Impact Station |
Control Station |
820935 |
837158 |
C1 |
Kung Um Road Nullah |
Control Station* |
820526 |
832515 |
|
C2 |
San Hui Nullah |
Control Station* |
821130 |
832847 |
|
UM |
Yuen Long Nullah |
Upstream Mobile Station (Control)* |
Located 50 m upstream of
the active works area. Location to be
determined on-site. |
||
DM |
Yuen Long Nullah |
Downstream Mobile Station* (Impact) |
Located 50 m downstream of
the active works area. Location to be
determined on-site. |
Notes:
* Not affected by tidal
condition.
The coordinates of the
monitoring stations are for reference only. The ET Leader shall propose the
exact monitoring locations and coordinates to the IEC and ER for approval
before commencement of water sampling.
5.2.20
The locations and suitability of the proposed monitoring
stations above are for reference only and shall be reviewed and proposed by the
ET and confirmed with the IEC and the EPD before commencement of Baseline
Monitoring. The water depth in the Yuen
Long Town Nullah and Shan Pui River may not be
sufficient to take samples at different depths, especially during dry season or
due to tidal action. Therefore, water
samples should only be taken at mid-depth. Water sampling works should be
conducted with caution to avoid disturbing the bottom sediment.
Monitoring
Frequency
5.2.21 As specified in Table 5.1, the detailed monitoring frequency requirements are
listed below.
Baseline
Monitoring
5.2.22 Baseline monitoring should be undertaken
three times per week for four weeks at the designated stations except the
Mobile Stations prior to the commencement of the construction works. For monitoring stations affected by tidal
condition, monitoring should be carried out at mid-flood and mid-ebb. The
interval between two consecutive sets of monitoring should not be less than 36
hours. Baseline monitoring schedule
prepared by the ET should be submitted to the ER, the IEC and EPD two weeks
prior to the commencement of baseline monitoring.
Impact Monitoring
5.2.23 Impact monitoring should be undertaken three
times per week during the course of construction works. For monitoring stations affected by tidal
condition, monitoring should be carried out at mid-flood and mid-ebb. The interval
between two consecutive sets of monitoring should not be less than 36 hours
except when there are exceedances of Action and/or Limit Level, in which case
monitoring frequency should be increased.
The proposed water quality monitoring schedule prepared by the ET should
be submitted to the ER, the IEC and EPD at least two weeks before the first day
of the monitoring month. The ER, the IEC
and EPD should be notified immediately of any changes in schedule.
Post Project
Monitoring
5.2.24 Post Project Monitoring will comprise
sampling on three days a week for four weeks after completion of the
construction works. The monitoring
requirements will be the same as the Baseline Monitoring stated in Section 5.2.22 above. Post Project
monitoring schedule prepared by the ET should be submitted to the ER, the IEC
and EPD two weeks prior to the commencement of Post Project monitoring.
Event
and Action Plan
5.2.25 Water quality monitoring results will be evaluated against Action and Limit Levels shown in Table 5.3.
Table 5.3 Action
and Limit Level for Water Quality Monitoring during the Construction Phase of
the Project (based on the result of the Baseline Report)
Parameter |
Action Level |
Limit Level |
|
SS in mg/L (1) |
95%-ile of baseline data, or 20% exceedance of value at
any impact station compared with corresponding data from control station on
the same day |
99%-ile of baseline data, or 30% exceedance of value at
any impact station compared with corresponding data from control station on
the same day |
|
DO in mgL-1 (2) |
5%-ile
of baseline data |
4 mg/L or 1%-ile
of baseline data |
|
Turbidity in NTU (1) |
95%-ile of baseline data, or 20% exceedance of value at any impact station
compared with corresponding data from control station on the same day |
99%-ile of baseline data, or 30% exceedance of value at any impact station
compared with corresponding data from control station on the same day |
|
Notes:
(1)
For SS and
turbidity, non-compliance of the water quality limits occurs when monitoring
result is higher than the limits. (2)
For DO,
non-compliance of the water quality limits occurs when the monitoring result
is lower than the limits. |
5.2.26 Should the monitoring results of the water
quality parameters at any designated monitoring stations indicate that the
water quality criteria are exceeded, the actions in accordance with the Event
and Action Plan in Table 5.4 should be carried out.
5.2.27 In addition to monitoring, regular
environmental site audit is required to ensure the proper implementation of
good site practices, construction runoff pollution prevention measures,
drainage and sewage control measures.
Detailed site audit specifications are included in Section 11 of this EM&A Manual.
Table 5.4 Event and Action Plan for Water Quality Monitoring during the Construction Phase of
the Project
Event |
Action |
|||
ET
Leader |
IEC |
ER |
Contractor |
|
Action Level being exceeded |
·
Repeat measurement to
confirm findings; ·
Identify source(s) of
impact; ·
Inform DSD, IEC,
Contractor, ER and EPD; ·
Check monitoring data,
all plant, equipment and Contractor's working methods; ·
Discuss mitigation
measures with DSD, IEC, ER and Contractor; ·
Repeat measurement on
next day of exceedance. |
·
Discuss with DSD, ET,
ER and Contractor on the mitigation measures; ·
Review proposals on
mitigation measures submitted by Contractor and advise the ER accordingly; ·
Assess the
effectiveness of the implemented mitigation measures. |
·
Discuss with DSD, IEC,
ET and Contractor on the proposed mitigation measures; ·
Make agreement on the
mitigation measures to be implemented. |
·
Inform the ER and
confirm notification of the non-compliance in writing; ·
Rectify unacceptable
practice; ·
Check all plant and
equipment ·
Consider changes of
working methods; ·
Discuss with ET, IEC
and ER and propose mitigation measures to ET, IEC and ER; ·
Implement the agreed
mitigation measures. |
Limit Level being exceeded |
·
Repeat measurement to
confirm findings; ·
Identify source(s) of
impact; ·
Inform DSD, IEC,
Contractor, ER and EPD; ·
Check monitoring data,
all plant, equipment and Contractor's working methods; ·
Discuss mitigation
measures with DSD, IEC, ER and Contractor; ·
Ensure mitigation
measures are implemented; ·
Increase the monitoring
frequency to daily until no exceedance of Limit Level. |
·
Discuss with DSD, ET,
ER and Contractor on the mitigation measures; ·
Review proposals on
mitigation measures submitted by Contractor and advise the ER accordingly; ·
Assess the effectiveness
of the implemented mitigation measures. |
·
Discuss with DSD, IEC,
ET and Contractor on the proposed mitigation measures; ·
Request Contractor to
critically review the working methods; ·
Make agreement on the
mitigation measures to be implemented; ·
Assess the
effectiveness of the implemented mitigation measures. |
·
Inform the ER and
confirm notification of the non-compliance in writing; ·
Rectify unacceptable
practice; ·
Check all plant and
equipment; ·
Consider changes of
working methods; ·
Discuss with ET, IEC
and ER and propose mitigation measures to ET, IEC and ER within 3 working
days; ·
Implement the agreed
mitigation measures. |
5.2.2
The mitigation measures recommended for water
quality are summarised in Annex
A.
Construction Phase
6.1.1
Construction and demolition (C&D) materials will inevitably be produced during the
construction phase of the Project. Waste
generated during construction works includes construction and demolition
materials, sediment, chemical waste, general refuse and floating refuse. Waste types, quantities and timing have been
estimated and mitigation measures have been proposed in terms of avoidance-minimisation-reuse-recycling-disposal hierarchy.
6.1.2
Potential for reuse of inert C&D material (public fill) from the
Project will be rigorously explored during the detailed design stage in an
effort to minimise off-site disposal.
Provided that there is strict control of C&D materials generated
from construction works and that all arising materials are stored, handled,
transported and disposed of in accordance with the recommended mitigation
measures, potential impact is not expected.
6.1.3
The recommended waste management measures as presented in Annex A shall be enforced by
incorporating them into an Environmental Management Plan (EMP) to be prepared
by the Contractor. Environmental audit
would be necessary to ensure the implementation of proper waste management
practices during construction.
6.1.4
Auditing should be carried out periodically to determine if waste is
being managed in accordance with the relevant environmental legislation and
standards (e.g. Waste Disposal Ordinance) and the EMP. The audits should examine all aspects of
waste management including waste generation, storage, recycling, treatment,
transportation, and disposal. The
general site inspections including waste management issues will be undertaken
weekly by ET to check all construction activities for compliance with all
appropriate environmental protection and pollution control measures, including
those set up in the EMP. Meanwhile,
waste management audit should also be carried out on monthly basis by the IEC.
Operation Phase
6.1.5
Unacceptable impacts related to waste management are not expected during
operation of the Project. As such,
environmental monitoring is considered not necessary during operation of the
Project.
6.2.1
Based on desk-top review and site walkover conducted in the
EIA, the presence of contaminated land is not expected. As such, environmental monitoring audit for
land contamination is considered not necessary.
7.1.1
Potential
ecological impacts arising from the construction and operational phases of the
Project were assessed in the EIA Report. Mitigation measures have been
recommended to minimize the potential indirect impacts to the nearby sensitive
wetland habitats and associated wildlife, particularly waterbirds. With the implementation
of appropriate mitigation measures, no unacceptable adverse residual impacts
would be anticipated. Nonetheless, EM&A is considered necessary during
construction of the Project and the requirements are described below.
7.2.1
The
mitigation measures recommended for ecology are summarized in Annex A.
7.3.1
Utilization of the wetland habitats by birds was recorded
within the 500m assessment area, where a number of avifauna of conservation
importance (particularly overwintering waterbirds) and the recognized sites of
conservation importance (including the Ramsar Site, Priority Site, WCA, WBA,
SSSI and CA) were recorded, should be monitored monthly during the construction
phase.
7.3.2
The area within 100m from the Project boundary should be
monitored monthly during the construction phase to check the location and
status of any active night roost.
Baseline Ecological
Monitoring of Birds
7.3.3
The result of the ecological field surveys conducted for the
EIA study, which were conducted monthly over a 12-month period between July
2019 and July 2020, will be adopted as the baseline for the evaluation of
utilization of the wetland habitats by birds nearby the Project Site and effectiveness
of the proposed mitigation measures during the ecological monitoring. The ET
should review the applicability of the results of baseline surveys conducted
for the EIA and conduct verification surveys as necessary.
7.3.4
A Baseline Bird Survey Report should be submitted to relevant
Government departments.
Pre-construction Survey of
Ardeid Night Roost
7.3.5
A pre-construction survey should be conducted to record and
verify the status and locations of any active ardeid night roost within 100m of
the Project Site boundary. It should also suggest a location as close to the
night roost as practicable for monitoring of noise level during construction.
The findings of the pre-construction surveys will serve as a reference for the
evaluation of usage of ardeid night roost identified and effectiveness of the
proposed mitigation measures during the construction phase ecological
monitoring. A Report on Pre-construction Survey of Ardeid Night Roost should be
submitted to relevant Government departments.
Ecological Monitoring of
Birds
7.3.6
Monthly ecological monitoring, focusing on avifauna species
of conservation importance, and overwintering waterbirds
utilising wetland habitats along Shan Pui River and Kam Tin River within 500m from the Project
boundary should be conducted during construction phase. For the surveys
overlooking the tidal mudflats and mangroves in the Shan Pui
River and Kam Tin River, the tidal level at the time of the survey should be
taken into consideration and the surveys should be taken when the tidal level
is generally 1.5m or below.
7.3.7
Avifaunal communities should be surveyed quantitatively along
transects and at selected point count locations. All birds heard or seen along
the transects should be identified to species level and counted. Noise level
should also be recorded. Any changes in site condition or disturbances detected
or observed at the monitoring locations, including both construction and
non-construction related activities, during each impact monitoring visit should
also be recorded.
7.3.8
The monitoring results should be compared to pre-construction
baseline condition during the dry and wet seasons as summarized in the Baseline
Bird Survey Report.
7.3.9
The ecological monitoring should be undertaken by experienced
ecologist(s) with relevant working experience. Should any unpredicted indirect
ecological impacts arising from the proposed Project be detected, remedial
measures should be developed and implemented by the Contractor. The monitoring
results with comparison to pre-construction baseline condition should be
reported in the monthly EM&A Reports.
Ardeid Night Roost
Monitoring
7.3.10 Monthly monitoring of the
area within 100m from the Project boundary should be conducted during the
construction phase to check the status and location of any active ardeid night
roost. The night roost survey should be conducted from one hour before sunset
to one hour after sunset. Direct observation should be made from a vantage
point which enables an unobstructed view over the area. The species, abundance
and time of all ardeids observed at the night roosts during the survey should
be recorded, as well as the noise levels. Any changes in site condition or
disturbances detected or observed at the monitoring locations, including both
construction and non-construction related activities, during each monitoring
visit should also be recorded.
7.3.11 The ecological monitoring
should be undertaken by experienced ecologist(s) with relevant working
experience. The usage of the ardeid night roost should be reviewed and
analyzed, and if any significant decline is identified, the cause of the
decline, with reference to any changes in site condition or disturbances
detected, should be reviewed to identify any unpredicted indirect ecological
impacts arising from the proposed Project. Remedial measures should be
developed and implemented by the Contractor as necessary. On the other hand, if
the active night roost is found to have relocated to 100m away from the project
boundary naturally, subject to further consultation and agreement with
AFCD/EPD, restriction on working hours (i.e. no construction works with PME
within 100m from the night roost after 17:00 during wet season and after 16:30
during dry season) can be ceased. The monitoring results and evaluation of the
usage of the ardeid night roost should be reported in the monthly EM&A
Reports.
7.3.12 Site audits should be
undertaken on weekly basis to check the proper implementation and maintenance
of recommended mitigation measures during construction phase of the Project.
7.4.1
As the potential impacts to ecology
during operational phase are all considered minor or insignificant, operational
phase monitoring and audit are not required. Monitoring of the effectiveness of the revitalisation will be formulated during the Detailed Design
Stage.
8.1.1
As
no unacceptable adverse fisheries impacts are anticipated during construction
or operational phases, no specific monitoring programme for fisheries is
required. Regular audits should be undertaken to ensure the effectiveness of
the mitigation measures and good site practices recommended during construction
phase for further controlling the water quality impacts, as these measures also
serve to protect fisheries resources.
8.2.1
The
mitigation measures recommended for fisheries impact (i.e. water quality
mitigation measures) are summarised in Annex A.
9.1.1
According
to the cultural heritage impact assessment, indirect impacts such as vibration,
contact with equipment, access issues may arise, mitigation and audit during
construction phase will be required for four heritage structures as listed
below.
·
Village
house (HB-17)
·
Village
house (HB-18)
·
Village
God Shrine (HB-30)
·
Buddhist
Stone Tablet (HB-31)
9.2.1
Mitigation
measures have been recommended as summarised in Annex
A for the protection, and secure and safe public
access during the construction phase of four, indirectly affected built
heritage sites.
Condition Survey (CS)
9.2.2
A condition survey should be carried
out by qualified building surveyor or engineer of the Contractor in advance of
works for the identified buildings / structures that may be affected by
ground-borne vibration. The Condition Survey Report should contain descriptions
of the structure, identification of fragile elements, an appraisal of the
condition and working methods for any proposed monitoring and precautionary
measures that are recommended.
9.2.3
The
Condition Survey Report for the identified buildings / structures must be
submitted to AMO for comment before construction activities commence. The
location of proposed monitoring points in the building should avoid damaging
the historic fabric and agreed by the owner and AMO. The Contractor should
implement the approved monitoring and precautionary measures.
Vibration Monitoring (VM)
9.2.4
Vibration monitoring by the
Contractor should be undertaken during the construction works to ensure that
safe levels of vibration are not exceeded. An Alert, Alarm and Action (AAA)
vibration limit set at 5 / 6 / 7.5 mm/s for heritage buildings (PNAP APP-137-
Appendix A) should be adopted. The AAA
vibration limit for the buildings to be graded by Antiquities Advisory Board
(AAB) should be determined by the future grading. The Condition Survey Report
should highlight if the limit should be lowered after the detailed study of the
condition of the buildings and structures. A monitoring schedule, the location
of monitoring equipment, the frequency of monitoring, reporting requirements
and event / action plan should be included in the Condition Survey Report. The
location of any monitoring equipment in the building must be approved by the
owner and AMO before installation. Reinstatement to all affected areas is
required. Results of the vibration monitoring should be submitted to ET, IEC
and ER within agreed timeframe for audit.
Provision of Buffer Zones (BZ)
9.2.5
A buffer zone should be provided by
the Contractor to separate the building or structure from the construction
works. The buffer zone should be clearly marked out by temporary fencing, if
temporary fencing is not appropriate signage may be used to identify the
heritage item to be avoided. The buffer zone should be made at least 1m from
the proposed works or if this is not possible as large as the site restrictions
allow.
Provision of Safe Public Access (SPA)
9.2.6
Any proposed works in close proximity
to buildings or structures used by the public have the potential to create an
unsafe environment for members of the public.
9.2.7
The Contractor should ensure that
safe public access if possible, through provision of clearly marked paths
separated from the construction works areas is provided for any such affected
cultural heritage structure.
Construction Phase
9.3.1
The
ET, IEC and ER should audit the vibration monitoring, relevant buffer zone
requirements and access conditions during the construction phase at least once
a month. In the event of exceedance, the event / action plan according to the
Condition Survey Report should be followed.
Operation Phase
9.3.2
No
impact to heritage resources is expected during operation of the Project. As such, monitoring is considered not
necessary during operation phase.
10.1.1
The
EIA Report has recommended the EM&A for landscape and visual resources is
undertaken during both the construction and operational phases of the Project.
The implementation and maintenance of landscape mitigation measures is a key
aspect of this and shall be checked to ensure that they are fully realised and
that potential conflicts between the proposed landscape measures and any other
project works and operational requirements are resolved at the earliest
possible date and without compromise to the intention of the mitigation
measures. In addition, implementation of the mitigation measures recommended by
the EIA shall be monitored through the construction phase site audit programme.
10.2.1
Baseline
monitoring for the landscape and visual resources shall comprise a one off
survey to be conducted prior to commencement of any construction works. The
commencement date of baseline monitoring shall be agreed between the ET / IEC / DSD / ER to ensure timely submission of the
baseline monitoring report to Environmental Protection
Department (EPD) and
relevant authorities.
10.2.2
This
includes a vegetation survey of the entire site area and within compounds
undertaken on an “area” basis. Representative vegetation types shall be
identified along with typical species composition. An assessment of landscape
character shall be made against which future change can be monitored. The
landscape resources and elements of particular concern are to be noted.
10.2.3
A
photographic record of the site at the time of the contractor’s possession of
the site shall be prepared by the contractor and approved the DSD / ER. The approved photographic record shall be
submitted to the DSD,
ET, IEC and EPD for record.
10.2.4
The
landscape and visual baseline shall be determined with reference to the
Landscape Resources and Landscape Character Area maps included in the EIA
Report.
10.3.1
An
approved landscape contractor shall be employed by the contractor for the
implementation of landscape construction works and subsequent maintenance
operations during the 12-month establishment period. The establishment works
shall be undertaken throughout the contractor’s one year maintenance period
which will be within the first operation year of the Project.
10.3.2
All
measures undertaken by both the contractor and the landscape contractor during
the construction phase and first year of the operation phase shall be audited
by a landscape architect, as a member of the ET, on a regular basis to ensure
compliance with the intended aims of the measures. Site inspections shall be
undertaken at least once every two months during the operation phase.
10.3.3
The
broad scope of the audit is detailed below. Operation phase auditing will be
restricted to the 12-months establishment works of the landscaping proposals,
with the DSD
taking over the maintenance and monitoring after this period, and thus only the
items below concerning this period are relevant to the operation phase:
·
The extent of the agreed
works areas shall be regularly checked during the construction phase. Any
trespass by the contractor outside the limit of works, including and damage to
existing trees and woodland all noted and remedial action determined.
·
The progress of the
engineering works all be regularly reviewed on site to identify the earliest
practical opportunities for the landscape works to be undertaken.
·
All existing trees and
vegetation within the study area which are not directly affected by the works
shall be retained and protected.
·
The methods of protecting
existing vegetation proposed by the contractors shall be acceptable and
enforced.
·
All landscaping works
shall be carried out in accordance with the specifications.
·
The planting of trees and
shrubs shall be carried out properly and within the right season as far as
practical.
·
The species and mix of the
new trees and shrubs to be planted shall be suitable.
·
The newly planted trees,
shrubs, aquatics and grasses shall be maintained throughout the establishment
period, particularly in respect of the following:
- Regular watering, weeding and fertilising of all tree, shrub and aquatic planting;
- Firming up of trees after periods of strong
winds;
- Regular checks for eradication of pests,
fungal infection, etc.;
- Pruning of dead or broken branches; and
- Prompt replacement of dead plants.
10.4.1
The
design, implementation and maintenance of landscape and visual mitigation
measures shall be checked to ensure that any potential conflicts between the
proposed landscape measures and any other works for the project would be
resolved as early as practical without affecting the implementation of the
mitigation measures.
10.4.2
Site
inspection and audit shall be undertaken as necessary in the construction and
operation phases as per Table 10.1
below.
Table
10.1 Monitoring Programme for
Landscape and Visual
Stage |
Monitoring Task |
Monitoring Report |
Form of Approval |
Frequency |
Detailed Design |
Checking
of design works against the recommendations of the landscape and visual
impact assessments within the EIA shall be undertaken during detailed design
and tender stage, to ensure that they fulfil the intention of the mitigation
measures. Any changes to the design, including design changes on site shall
also be checked. |
Report
by detailed design engineer / ER confirming that the design conforms to
requirements of EP |
Approved
by DSD or EPD as appropriate |
At
the end of the Detailed Design Phase |
Construction |
Checking
of the contractor’s operations during the construction period. |
Report
on Contractor's compliance, by ET |
Counter
signature of report by IEC, ER |
Weekly |
Establishment Works |
Checking
of the planting works during the twelve-month Establishment Period after
completion of the construction works. |
Report
on Contractor's compliance, by ET |
Counter
signature of report by IEC, ER |
Every
two months |
Long Term Management (10 year) |
Monitoring
of the long-term management of the planting works in the period up to 10
years after completion of the construction works. |
Report
on Compliance by ET or Maintenance Agency as appropriate |
Counter
signature of report by Management Agency |
Annually |
Construction Phase and
Establishment Period
10.4.3
An
implementation programme will be prepared as required
by EIAO-TM. Reference will be made to the DEVB TC(W) No. 6/2015 on Maintenance
of Vegetation and Hard Landscape Features which defines the management and
maintenance responsibilities for natural vegetation and landscape works,
including both soft works and hard works, and authorities for tree preservation
and felling. The format of the preliminary arrangement of implementation programme is listed in Table 10.2 below.
Table 10.2 Preliminary Funding, Implementation,
Management and Maintenance Proposal
Landscape and Visual
Mitigation Measure ID No. |
Funding Agency |
Implementation Agency |
Management Agency |
MaintenanceAgency |
Construction Phase |
||||
CM1 – CM9 |
Contractor |
Contractor |
- |
- |
Operation Phase |
||||
OM1, OM2, OM5, OM6, OM7,
OM8, OM10 |
DSD |
DSD |
DSD |
DSD |
OM3 – OM4 |
DSD |
DSD |
HAD / HyD / LCSD |
HAD / HyD / LCSD |
OM9 |
DSD |
DSD |
DSD / HAD / LCSD |
DSD / HAD / LCSD |
10.4.4
The
implementation of landscape construction works and subsequent maintenance
operations during the 12-month establishment period must be supervised by a
qualified Landscape Resident Site Staff (Registered Landscape Architect or
Professional Member of the Hong Kong Institute of Landscape Architects).
10.4.5
Measures
to mitigate landscape and visual impacts during construction shall be checked
and monitored by a Registered Landscape Architect to ensure compliance with the
intended aims of the measures.
10.4.6
The
progress of the engineering works shall be regularly reviewed on site to
identify the earliest practical opportunities for the landscape works to be
undertaken.
10.4.7
The
planting works shall be monitored during the first 10 years of the operation
phase of the project. Any areas of vegetation which fails to establish, shall
be corrected by the relevant management and maintenance parties at the earliest
opportunity. The maintenance requirement of the planting works stated under the
Ten-Year Management Programme is included in the monitoring requirement.
10.5.1
Should
non-compliance of the landscape and visual impacts occur, actions in accordance
with the Event and Action Plan stated in Table 10.3 below
shall be carried out.
Table 10.3 Event and Action Plan
for Landscape and Visual
Action Level |
Action |
|||
ET |
IEC |
ER |
Contractor |
|
Design Check |
Check final design conforms to the
requirements of EP and prepare report. |
Check report. Recommend remedial design if necessary. |
Undertake remedial design if necessary. |
- |
Non-conformity on one occasion |
Identify source. Inform IEC and DSD / ER. Discuss remedial actions with IEC, DSD / ER
and Contractor. Monitor remedial actions until
rectification has been completed. |
Check report. Check Contractor’s working method. Discuss with ET and Contractor on possible
remedial measures. Advise DSD / ER on effectiveness of
proposed remedial measures. Check implementation of remedial measures. |
Notify Contractor. Ensure remedial measures are properly
implemented. |
Amend working methods to prevent recurrence
of non-conformity. Rectify damage and undertake additional
action necessary. |
Repeated Non-conformity |
Identify source. Inform IEC and DSD / ER. Increase monitoring frequency. Discuss remedial actions with IEC, DSD / ER
and Contractor. Monitor remedial actions until rectification
has been completed. If non-conformity stops, cease additional
monitoring. |
Check monitoring report. Check Contractor’s working method. Discuss with ET and Contractor on possible
remedial measures. Advise DSD / ER on effectiveness of
proposed remedial measures. Supervise implementation of remedial
measures. |
Notify Contractor. Ensure remedial measures area properly
implemented. |
Amend working methods to prevent recurrence
of non-conformity. Rectify damage and undertake additional
action necessary. |
10.6.1
The
mitigation measures recommended for landscape and visual impact are summarised
in Annex A.
11.1.1
Site
inspection should be undertaken regularly in order to inspect the construction
activities and ensure that appropriate environmental protection and pollution
control mitigation measures are properly implemented.
11.1.2
The
ET Leader should be responsible for formulating the environmental site
inspection, deficiency and action reporting system, and for carrying out the
site inspection works. The ET Leader
should submit a proposal on the site inspection, deficiency and action
reporting procedures to the Contractor for agreement and to the IEC and ER for
approval.
11.1.3
Regular
site inspections should be carried out at once per week. The areas of inspection should not be limited
to the environmental situation, pollution control and mitigation measures
within the site. It should also review
the environmental situation outside the works area which is likely to be
affected, directly or indirectly, by the construction activities of the
Project. The ET Leader should make
reference to the following information in conducting the inspection:
a)
Recommendations in the EIA study on environmental protection
and pollution control mitigation measures;
b)
On-going result of the EM&A programme;
c)
Works progress and programme;
d)
Individual works methodology proposals (which should include
proposal on associated pollution control measures);
e)
The contract specifications on environmental protection;
f)
Relevant environmental protection and pollution control laws;
and
g)
Previous site inspection results.
11.1.4
The
Contractor should update the ET Leader with all relevant information of the
construction contract for the ET Leader to carry out the site inspections. The inspection results and its associated
recommendations on improvements to the environmental protection and pollution
control works should be submitted to the ER, Contractor and IEC within 24
hours, for reference and for taking immediate action. The Contractor should follow the procedures
and time-frame as stipulated in the environmental site inspection, deficiency
and action reporting system formulated by the ET Leader to report on any
remedial measures subsequent to the site inspections.
11.1.5
The
ET should also carry out ad hoc site inspections if significant environmental
problems are identified. Inspections may also be required subsequent to receipt
of an environmental complaint, or as part of the investigation work, as
specified in the Action Plan for environmental monitoring and audit.
11.2.1
In
order to ensure that all construction site works are in compliance with the
environmental requirements, all the works method statements submitted by the
Contractor to the ER for approval should be sent to the ET Leader for vetting.
11.2.2
The
ET Leader should also review the progress and programme of the construction
works in order to check that relevant environmental laws have not been
violated, and that any foreseeable potential for violating the laws can be
prevented.
11.2.3
The
Contractor should regularly copy relevant documents to the ET Leader so that
the inspection can be carried out smoothly.
The document should include but not limited to the Work Progress
Reports, updated Works Programme, and application letters for different
licences / permits under the environmental protection laws, and copies of all
the valid licences / permits held at that time.
The site diary should also be available for the ET Leader's inspection
upon request.
11.2.4
After
the document review, the ET Leader should advise the ER, Contractor and IEC of
any non-compliance with the contractual and legislative requirements on
environmental protection and pollution control for their 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 not cope
with the works programme or may result in potential violation of environmental
protection and pollution control requirements, the ET Leader also advise the
Contractor and the ER accordingly.
11.2.5
Upon
receipt of the advice, the Contractor should undertake immediate actions. The ER should follow up to ensure that
appropriate action has been taken in order to satisfy contractual and legal
requirements.
24-hour Dedicated Hotline for Public Complaints and Enquiries
11.3.1
The Contractor should set up a 24-hour hotline dedicated to
the Project to receive and respond to complaints or enquires from the public,
media, and community groups in the vicinity of the site throughout the
construction period of the Project. The
Contractor should display conspicuously the telephone number of the 24-hour
hotline on the construction site(s) at all vehicular site entrances / exits or
at a convenient location for public information at all times.
Environmental
Complaints
11.3.2
Complaints should be referred to the ET Leader for carrying
out complaint investigation procedures.
The ET Leader should undertake the following procedures upon receipt of
any complaint:
1.
Log complaint and date of receipt onto the complaint database
and inform the Contractor, ER, DSD and IEC immediately;
2.
Investigate the complaint to determine its validity, and to
assess whether the source of the problem is due to works activities;
3.
Identify mitigation measures in consultation with the IEC if
a complaint is valid and due to works;
4.
Advise the Contractor accordingly if mitigation measures are
required;
5.
Review the Contractor's response on the identified mitigation
measures, and the updated situation;
6.
If the complaint is transferred from other sources (e.g. ER,
DSD or EPD), submit interim report after endorsement by IEC on status of the
complaint investigation and follow-up action within the agreed time frame;
7.
Undertake additional monitoring and audit to verify the
situation if necessary, and review that circumstances leading to the complaint
do not recur;
8.
Report the investigation results and the subsequent actions
to the complainant (If the source of complaint is from other sources, the
results should be reported within the agreed time frame); and
9.
Record the complaint, investigation, subsequent actions and
results in the monthly EM&A reports.
11.3.3
During the complaint investigation work, the Contractor and
ER should cooperate with the ET Leader in providing all the necessary
information and assistance for completion of the investigation. If mitigation measures are identified in the
investigation, the Contractor should promptly carry out the mitigation. The ER should ensure that the measures have
been carried out by the Contractor.
A sample Complaint Log is provided in Annex C.
12.1.1
EM&A reports can be provided in an electronic medium upon
agreement with DSD and EPD on the format.
The monitoring data (baseline and impact) should also be made available
through an internet website that is agreed with relevant authority.
12.1.2
The ET Leader should prepare and submit the following
reports:
·
Baseline Monitoring Report;
·
Monthly EM&A Reports; and
·
Final EM&A Review Report.
12.1.3
In accordance with Annex 21 of the EIAO-TM, the monthly and
final review EM&A reports should be made available to the Director of
Environmental Protection (DEP).
12.2.1
The ET should prepare and submit a Baseline Monitoring Report
within 10 working days after completion of the baseline monitoring works.
Copies of the Baseline Monitoring Report should be submitted to the
Contractor(s), the IEC, ER, DSD and EPD as appropriate. The ET should liaise with the relevant
parties to confirm the exact number of copies required.
12.2.2
The Baseline Monitoring Report for the construction phase
should include the following as a minimum:
(1) Up to half a page executive summary;
(2) Brief project background information;
(3) Drawings showing locations of the baseline monitoring stations;
(4) Monitoring results (in both hard and diskette copies) together with the following information:
a. monitoring methodology;
b. name of laboratory and types of equipment used and calibration details;
c. parameters monitored;
d. monitoring locations (and depth if applicable);
e. monitoring date, time, frequency and duration; and
f. QA/QC results and detection limits.
(5) Details on influencing factors, including:
a. major activities, if any, being carried out on the site during the period;
b. weather conditions during the period; and
c. other factors which might affect the results.
(6) Determination of the 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 monitored parameters;
(7) Revisions for inclusion in the EM&A Manual; and
(8) Comments, recommendations and conclusions.
12.3.1
The results and findings of the construction phase EM&A
work required in this Manual will be recorded in the Monthly EM&A Reports
prepared by the ET Leader. The EM&A report
should be prepared and submitted within 2 weeks of the end of each reporting
month, with the first report due the month after construction commenced. Each Monthly EM&A Report should be
submitted to the following parties: the Contractor(s), the IEC, ER, DSD and the
EPD, as well as to other relevant departments as required. Before submission of the first Monthly
EM&A Report, the ET should liaise with the parties on the exact number of
copies and format of the reports in both hard copy and electronic medium.
12.3.2
The ET Leader should review the number and location of
monitoring stations and parameters every six months, or on as needed basis, to
cater for any changes in the surrounding environment and the nature of works in
progress.
12.3.3
Contents of First Monthly EM&A Report should at least
include the following:
(1) Executive summary (1-2 pages), comprising:
a. breaches of AL levels;
b. complaint Log;
c. notifications of any summons and successful prosecutions;
d. reporting changes; and
e. forecast of impact predictions.
(2) Basic project information including a synopsis of the project organisation, programme and management structure.
(3) Environmental Status, comprising:
a. works undertaken during the month with illustrations; and
b. drawing showing the project area, any environmental sensitive receivers and the locations of the monitoring and control stations.
(4) A brief summary of EM&A requirements including:
a. monitoring parameters;
b. environmental quality performance limits (A/L levels);
c. EAPs;
d. environmental mitigation measures, as recommended in the EIA Report; and
e. environmental requirements in contract documents.
(5) Advice on the implementation of environmental protection, mitigation and pollution control measures as recommended in the EIA Report and summarised in the updated implementation schedule.
(6) Monitoring results (in both hard and diskette copies) together with the following information;
a. monitoring methodology;
b. name of laboratory and equipment used and calibration details;
c. parameters monitored;
d. monitoring locations (and depth); and
e. monitoring date, time, frequency, and duration;
(7) Graphical plots of trends of monitored parameters for representative monitoring stations annotated against the following:
a. major activities being carried out on site during the period;
b. weather conditions during the period; and
c. any other factors which might affect the monitoring results;
(8) Advice on the solid and liquid wastes management.
(9) A summary of non-compliance (exceedances) of the environmental quality performance limits (A/L levels).
(10) A review of the reasons for and the implications of non-compliance including a review of pollution sources and working procedures.
(11) A description of the actions taken in the event of non-compliance and deficiency reporting and any follow-up procedures related to earlier non-compliance.
(12) A summary record of complaints received (written or verbal) for each media, including locations and nature of complaints, liaison and consultation undertaken, actions and follow-up procedures taken and summary of complaints.
(13) A summary record of notifications of summons, successful prosecutions for breaches of environmental protection/pollution control legislation and actions to rectify such breaches.
(14) A forecast of the works programme, impact predictions and monitoring schedule for the next one month; and
(15) Comments, recommendations and conclusions for the monitoring period.
12.3.4
Contents of the Subsequent Monthly EM&A Reports shall at
least include the following:
(1) Executive summary (1-2 pages), including:
a. breaches of A/L levels;
b. complaint log;
c. notifications of any summons and successful prosecutions;
d. reporting changes; and
e. forecast of impact predictions.
(2) Environmental status, comprising:
a. drawing showing the Project area, any environmental sensitive receivers and the locations of the monitoring and control stations;
b. summary of non-compliance with the environmental quality performance limits; and
c. summary of complaints.
(3) Environmental issues and actions, comprising:
a. review issues carried forward and any follow-up procedures related to earlier non-compliance (complaints and deficiencies);
b. description of the actions taken in the event of non-compliance and deficiency reporting;
c. recommendations (should be specific and target the appropriate party for action); and
d. implementation status of the mitigation measures and the corresponding effectiveness of the measures.
(4) Appendices, including:
a. A/L levels;
b. graphical plots of trends of monitored parameters at key stations over the past reporting month for representative monitoring stations annotated against the following: major activities being carried out on site during the period; weather conditions during the period; and any other factors which might affect the monitoring results;
c. monitoring schedule for the present and next reporting period;
d. cumulative complaints statistics; and
e. details of complaints, outstanding issues and deficiencies.
12.4.1
A Final EM&A Review Report should be prepared by the ET
at the end of the construction phase.
The Final EM&A Review Reports should contain at least the following
information:
(1) Executive Summary (1-2 pages).
(2) Drawings showing the project area, any environmental sensitive receivers and the locations of the monitoring and control stations.
(3) Basic project information including a synopsis of the project organization, contacts for key management staff and a synopsis of work undertaken during the course of the Project.
(4) A brief summary of EM&A requirements including:
a. environmental mitigation measures as recommended in the EIA Report;
b. environmental impact hypotheses tested;
c. environmental quality performance limits (A/L Levels);
d. monitoring parameters; and
e. EAPs.
(5) A summary of the implementation status of environmental protection and pollution control/mitigation measures as recommended in the EIA Report and summarised in the updated Implementation Schedule.
(6) Graphical plots and the statistical analysis of the trends of monitored parameters over the course of the project including the post-project monitoring for monitoring stations annotated against the following:
a. the major activities being carried out on site during the period;
b. weather conditions during the period; and
c. any other factors which might affect the monitoring results;
(7) A summary of non-compliance (exceedances) of the environmental quality performance limits (A/L levels).
(8) A review of the reasons for and the implications of non-compliance including review of pollution sources and working procedures as appropriate.
(9) A description of the actions taken in the event of non-compliance.
(10) A summary record of complaints received (written or verbal) for each media, liaison and consultation undertaken, actions and follow-up procedures taken.
(11) A summary record of notifications of summonses and successful prosecutions for breaches of the current environmental protection/pollution control legislations, locations and nature of the breaches investigation, follow-up actions taken and results.
(12) A comparison of the EM&A data with the EIA predictions with annotations and explanations for any discrepancies, including a review of the validity of EIA predictions and identification of shortcomings in the EIA recommendations.
(13) A review of the monitoring methodology adopted and with the benefit of hindsight, comment on its effectiveness, including cost effectiveness;
(14) A review of the success of the EM&A programme, including a review of the effectiveness and efficiency of the mitigation measures, and recommendations for any improvements in the EM&A programme.
(15) A clear cut statement on the environmental acceptability of the project with reference to specific impact hypotheses and a conclusion to state the return to ambient and/or the predicted scenario as the EIA findings.
12.5.1
Though documents including the field monitoring records,
laboratory analysis records, and site inspection forms are not required to be
included in the EM&A Reports for submission, they should be kept by the ET
Leader and ready for inspection upon request.
Relevant information should be clearly and systematically recorded in
the documents.
12.5.2
Monitoring data should be recorded in magnetic media, and the
software copy should be available upon request.
The documents and data should be kept for at least one year after the
completion of the construction phase EM&A works.
12.6.1
To enable the public inspection of the Baseline Monitoring
Report and Monthly EM&A Reports via the EIAO Internet Website and at the
EIAO Register Office, electronic copies of Monthly EM&A Reports should be
prepared in Hyper Text Markup Language (HTML) (version 4.0 or later) and in
Portable Document Format (PDF, version 4.0 or later), unless otherwise agreed
by EPD and should be submitted at the same time as the hard copies. For the HTML version, a content page capable
of providing hyperlink to each section and sub-section of the EM&A Reports
should be included in the beginning of the document. Hyperlinks to figures, drawings and tables in
the EM&A Reports should be provided in the main text where the respective
references are made. Graphics in the
reports should be in interlaced GIF format unless otherwise agreed by EPD. The content of the electronic copies of the
Monthly EM&A Reports must be the same as the hard copies.
12.6.2
The environmental monitoring data should be made available to
the public via the EIAO Internet Website and the EIAO Register Office.
12.6.3
The internet website as described above will enable
user-friendly public access to the monitoring data and with features capable
of:
·
providing access to environmental monitoring data collected since the
commencement of works;
·
searching by data;
·
searching by types of monitoring data;
·
hyperlinks to relevant monitoring data after searching; and
·
or otherwise as agreed by EPD.
12.7.1
With reference to EAPs, when the environmental quality limits
are exceeded, the ET should notify the IEC, Contractor(s), ER, DSD and EPD as
appropriate within 24 hours of the identification of the exceedance. The notification should be followed up with
each party on the results of the investigation, proposed remediation action and
success of the action taken, with any necessary follow-up proposals. A sample
template for the notification is provided in Annex
D.
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