TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

Page

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY............................................................................................................................ 1

1.         INTRODUCTION..............................................................................................................................

Background....................................................................................................................................

Scope of Report..............................................................................................................................

Project Organization........................................................................................................................

Summary of Construction Works..................................................................................................... 3

Summary of EM&A Programme Requirements................................................................................. 3

2.         AIR QUALITY................................................................................................................................ 4

Monitoring Requirements................................................................................................................ 4

Monitoring Equipment.................................................................................................................... 4

Monitoring Parameters, Frequency and Duration............................................................................... 4

Monitoring Locations...................................................................................................................... 4

Monitoring Methodology................................................................................................................. 5

Monitoring Results......................................................................................................................... 6

3.         NOISE MONITORING..................................................................................................................... 7

Monitoring Requirements................................................................................................................ 7

Monitoring Equipment.................................................................................................................... 7

Monitoring Locations...................................................................................................................... 7

Monitoring Parameters................................................................................................................... 7

Monitoring Methodology................................................................................................................. 7

Monitoring Results......................................................................................................................... 8

4.         VEGETATION MONITORING.......................................................................................................... 9

Monitoring Requirement.................................................................................................................. 9

Monitoring Location........................................................................................................................ 9

Monitoring Methodology................................................................................................................. 9

Monitoring Results......................................................................................................................... 9

5.         LANDSCAPE AND VISUAL.......................................................................................................... 10

Monitoring Requirement................................................................................................................ 10

Summary of Inspection ?5 May 2009............................................................................................ 10

Summary of Inspection ?19 May 2009........................................................................................... 11

Next Landscape and Visual Audit Schedule.................................................................................... 11

6.         ENVIRONMENTAL SITE INSPECTION AND AUDIT........................................................................ 12

Site Inspection............................................................................................................................. 12

Assessment of Environmental Monitoring Results........................................................................... 13

Advice on the Solid and Liquid Waste Management Status.............................................................. 13

Environmental Licenses and Permits............................................................................................. 13

Implementation Status of Environmental Mitigation Measures........................................................... 14

Summary of Exceedances of the Environmental Quality Performance Limit....................................... 14

Summary of Complaints, Notification of Summons and Successful Prosecutions............................... 14

7.         FUTURE KEY ISSUES................................................................................................................. 15

Construction Programme for the Coming Months............................................................................ 15

Key Issues for Coming Month....................................................................................................... 15

Monitoring Schedule for the Coming Months................................................................................... 16

8.         CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS................................................................................. 17

Conclusions................................................................................................................................ 17

Recommendations....................................................................................................................... 17

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY........................................................................................................................... 11

1.         INTRODUCTION........................................................................................................................... 21

Background................................................................................................................................. 21

Scope of Report........................................................................................................................... 21

Project Organization..................................................................................................................... 21

Summary of Construction Works................................................................................................... 31

Summary of EM&A Programme Requirements................................................................................ 31

2.         AIR QUALITY.............................................................................................................................. 41

Monitoring Requirements.............................................................................................................. 41

Monitoring Equipment................................................................................................................... 41

Monitoring Parameters, Frequency and Duration............................................................................. 41

Monitoring Locations.................................................................................................................... 41

Monitoring Methodology................................................................................................................ 51

Monitoring Results....................................................................................................................... 61

3.         NOISE MONITORING................................................................................................................. 718

Monitoring Requirements............................................................................................................ 718

Monitoring Equipment................................................................................................................. 718

Monitoring Locations.................................................................................................................. 718

Monitoring Parameters................................................................................................................ 718

Monitoring Methodology.............................................................................................................. 718

Monitoring Results..................................................................................................................... 819

4.         VEGETATION SURVEY............................................................................................................ 9110

Monitoring Requirement............................................................................................................. 9110

Monitoring Location................................................................................................................... 9110

Monitoring Methodology.............................................................................................................. 101

Monitoring Results..................................................................................................................... 101

5.         LANDSCAPE AND VISUAL..................................................................................................... 10111

Monitoring Requirement........................................................................................................... 10111

Summary of the Landscape and Visual Monitoring on 8 April 2008............................................... 10111

Summary of the Landscape and Visual Monitoring on 22 April 2008............................................. 12111

Next Landscape and Visual Audit Schedule............................................................................... 12112

6.         ENVIRONMENTAL SITE INSPECTION AND AUDIT................................................................... 12113

Site Inspection........................................................................................................................ 12113

Assessment of Environmental Monitoring Results...................................................................... 13113

Advice on the Solid and Liquid Waste Management Status......................................................... 13114

Environmental Licenses and Permits........................................................................................ 13114

Implementation Status of Environmental Mitigation Measures...................................................... 13114

Summary of Exceedances of the Environmental Quality Performance Limit.................................. 13114

Summary of Complaints, Notification of Summons and Successful Prosecutions.......................... 14114

7.         FUTURE KEY ISSUES........................................................................................................... 15115

Construction Programme for the Coming Months....................................................................... 15115

Key Issues for Coming Month.................................................................................................. 15115

Monitoring Schedule for the Coming Months.............................................................................. 16116

8.         CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS............................................................................ 17117

Conclusions........................................................................................................................... 17117

Recommendations.................................................................................................................. 17117

Executive summary................................................................................................................................... 1

1.         INTRODUCTION............................................................................................................................ 2

Background................................................................................................................................... 2

Purpose of the Baseline Report....................................................................................................... 2

2.         BASELINE AIR QUALITY MONITORING........................................................................................ 33

Monitoring Requirements.............................................................................................................. 33

Monitoring Equipment................................................................................................................... 33

Monitoring Parameters, Frequency and Duration............................................................................. 33

Monitoring Locations.................................................................................................................... 33

Monitoring Methodology................................................................................................................ 33

Results....................................................................................................................................... 55

Action and Limit Levels................................................................................................................. 55

3.         BASELINE NOISE MONITORING.................................................................................................. 77

Monitoring Requirements.............................................................................................................. 77

Monitoring Equipment................................................................................................................... 77

Monitoring Locations.................................................................................................................... 77

Monitoring Parameters................................................................................................................. 77

Monitoring Methodology................................................................................................................ 77

Monitoring................................................................................................................................... 88

Results....................................................................................................................................... 88

Action and Limit Levels................................................................................................................. 88

4.         VEGETATION SURVEY............................................................................................................ 1010

Monitoring Requirement............................................................................................................ 1010

Monitoring Location.................................................................................................................. 1010

Monitoring Methodology............................................................................................................ 1010

Monitoring Results.................................................................................................................... 1010

5.         LANDSCAPE AND VISUAL BASELINE REVIEW........................................................................ 1212

Review Requirement................................................................................................................. 1212

Baseline Review Methodology.................................................................................................... 1212

Baseline Review Results........................................................................................................... 1313

Landscape Character................................................................................................................ 1313

Visually Sensitive Receivers...................................................................................................... 1414

6.         CONCLUSION.......................................................................................................................... 1515

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

1.         INTRODUCTION

Background

Scope of Report

Project Organization

Summary of Construction Works

Summary of EM&A Programme Requirements

2.         AIR QUALITY

Monitoring Requirements

Monitoring Equipment

Monitoring Parameters, Frequency and Duration

Monitoring Locations

Monitoring Methodology

Monitoring Results

3.         NOISE MONITORING

Monitoring Requirements

Monitoring Equipment

Monitoring Locations

Monitoring Parameters

Monitoring Methodology

Monitoring Results

4.         VEGETATION MONITORING

Monitoring Requirement

Monitoring Location

Monitoring Methodology

Monitoring Results

5.         LANDSCAPE AND VISUAL

Monitoring Requirement

Summary of Inspection ?5 May 2009

Summary of Inspection ?19 May 2009

Next Landscape and Visual Audit Schedule

6.         ENVIRONMENTAL SITE INSPECTION AND AUDIT

Site Inspection

Assessment of Environmental Monitoring Results

Advice on the Solid and Liquid Waste Management Status

Environmental Licenses and Permits

Implementation Status of Environmental Mitigation Measures

Summary of Exceedances of the Environmental Quality Performance Limit

Summary of Complaints, Notification of Summons and Successful Prosecutions

7.         FUTURE KEY ISSUES

Construction Programme for the Coming Months

Key Issues for Coming Month

Monitoring Schedule for the Coming Months

8.         CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

Conclusions

Recommendations

 

 

List of Tables

 

Table 1.1           Contact Information of Key Personnel.......................................................................... 3

Table 2.1           Air Quality Monitoring Equipment................................................................................ 4

Table 2.2           Air Quality Monitoring Parameters, Frequency and Duration.......................................... 4

Table 2.3           Locations of Air Quality Monitoring Stations.................................................................. 4

Table 2.4           Summary of 1-hour TSP Monitoring Results in the Reporting Period............................... 6

Table 2.5           Summary of 24-hour TSP Monitoring Results in the Reporting Period............................. 6

Table 3.1           Noise Monitoring Equipment....................................................................................... 7

Table 3.2           Locations of Noise Monitoring Stations........................................................................ 7

Table 3.3           Summary of Noise Monitoring Results in the Reporting Period....................................... 8

Table 6.1           Summary of Environmental Licensing and Permit Status.............................................. 14

Table 1.1           Contact Information of Key Personnel............................................................................

Table 2.1           Air Quality Monitoring Equipment..................................................................................

Table 2.2           Air Quality Monitoring Parameters, Frequency and Duration............................................

Table 2.3           Locations of Air Quality Monitoring Stations...................................................................

Table 2.4           Summary of 1-hour TSP Monitoring Results in the Reporting Period.................................

Table 2.5           Summary of 24-hour TSP Monitoring Results in the Reporting Period...............................

Table 3.1           Noise Monitoring Equipment.........................................................................................

Table 3.2           Locations of Noise Monitoring Stations..........................................................................

Table 3.3           Summary of Noise Monitoring Results in the Reporting Period.........................................

Table 6.1           Summary of Environmental Licensing and Permit Status.................................................

Table 1.1           Contact Information of Key Personnel.......................................................................... 1

Table 2.1           Air Quality Monitoring Equipment................................................................................ 1

Table 2.2           Air Quality Monitoring Parameters, Frequency and Duration.......................................... 1

Table 2.3           Locations of Air Quality Monitoring Stations.................................................................. 1

Table 2.4           Summary of 1-hour TSP Monitoring Results During Reporting Period.............................. 1

Table 2.5           Summary of 24-hour TSP Monitoring Results During Reporting Period............................ 1

Table 3.1           Noise Monitoring Equipment..................................................................................... 18

Table 3.2           Locations of Noise Monitoring Stations....................................................................... 18

Table 3.3           Summary of Noise Monitoring Results in the Reporting Period..................................... 19

Table 6.1           Summary of Environmental Licensing and Permit Status............................................ 114

Table 2.1        ?Air Quality Monitoring Parameters, Frequency and Duration............................................ 3

Table 2.2        ?Locations of Air Quality Monitoring Stations................................................................... 3

Table 2.3        ?Summary of 1-hour TSP Monitoring Results During Baseline Period................................. 5

Table 2.4        ?Summary of 24-hour TSP Monitoring Results During Baseline Period............................... 5

Table 2.5        ?Derivation of Action and Limit Levels for Air Quality......................................................... 5

Table 2.6        ? Action and Limit Levels for Air Quality........................................................................... 6

Table 3.1        ?Noise Monitoring Equipment......................................................................................... 7

Table 3.2        ?Locations of Noise Monitoring Stations.......................................................................... 7

Table 3.3        ?Summary of Noise Monitoring Results During Baseline Period......................................... 8

Table 3.4        ?Criteria for Action and Limit Levels for Construction Noise................................................ 8

Table 3.5        ?Action and Limit Levels for Construction Noise of the Project........................................... 9

Table 4.1        ?Vegetation Species of Conservation Importance within and in Close Proximity to the Boundary of the Part II Project Area............................................................................................................ 11

Table 1.1           Contact Information of Key Personnel

Table 2.1           Air Quality Monitoring Equipment

Table 2.2           Air Quality Monitoring Parameters, Frequency and Duration

Table 2.3           Locations of Air Quality Monitoring Stations

Table 2.4           Summary of 1-hour TSP Monitoring Results in the Reporting Period

Table 2.5           Summary of 24-hour TSP Monitoring Results in the Reporting Period

Table 3.1           Noise Monitoring Equipment

Table 3.2           Locations of Noise Monitoring Stations

Table 3.3           Summary of Noise Monitoring Results in the Reporting Period

Table 6.1           Summary of Environmental Licensing and Permit Status

 

 

 

 

List of Figures

 

Figure 12.1      ?Site Layout Plan

Locations of Air Quality and Noise Monitoring Stations

Figure 24.1      ?Locations of Air Quality and Noise Monitoring Stations

?/span>

Figure 6.1        ?Environmental Complaint Handling Procedures     Location of Vegetation Survey

Figure 4.2A  ?  ?/span>Locations of Plant Species of Conservation Importance

Figure 4.2B       Locations of Plant Species of Conservation Importance

Figure 5.1        ?Landscape Resources

Figure 5.2        ?Photos of Landscape Resources

Figure 5.3        ?Landscape Character Area

Figure 5.4        ?Photos of Landscape Character Area

Figure 5.5        ?Zone of Visual Influence and Visual Sensitive Receivers

Figure 5.6        ?Photos of Visually Sensitive Receivers

Figure 5.7        ?Photos of Key Viewpoints (Sheet 1 of 2)

Figure 5.8        ?Photos of Key Viewpoints (Sheet 2 of 2)

 

 

List of Appendices

 

Appendix A      ?Project Organization Structure

Appendix B       Construction Programme

Appendix C     ?Implementation Schedule of Mitigation Measures (EMIS)

Appendix D       Action and Limit Levels for Air Quality? and Noise

Appendix E     ?Appendix A      ?Calibration Certificates

Appendix F      ?Air Quality Monitoring Results and Graphical Presentation

Appendix G       Event Action Plan

Appendix H       Weather Data

Appendix I       ?Noise Monitoring Results and Graphical Presentation

Appendix J      ?Detailed Landscape and Visual Monitoring Report

Appendix K       ET’s Site Inspection Summaries

Appendix L      ?Monitoring Schedules

Appendix M       Cumulative Statistics of Complaints, Notifications of Summons and Successful Prosecutions

 

Appendix B       Baseline Air Quality Monitoring Results

Appendix C       Baseline Noise Monitoring Results

Appendix D       Schedule of Plant Species of Conservation Importance

Appendix E       Photographic Records of Plant Species of Conservation Importance

Appendix F      ?Coordinates for Plant Species of Conservation Importance

 

 

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

The Project “Landslide Preventive Works at Po Shan, Mid-levels ?Design and Construction (Natural Terrain Risk Mitigation Works)?(hereafter called “the Project? includes the installation of about 700 numbers of soil nails and about 60 numbers of raking drains on the natural terrain within the concerned area.

China State ?China Railway Joint Venture (CCJV) was commissioned as the Contractor of the Project. ENSR Asia (HK) Ltd., which was integrated into AECOM Asia Company Limited as of 1 May 2009, was employed by CCJV as the Environmental Team to carry out the EM&A programme.

The impact environmental baseline monitoring and audit for the Project includes the air quality, noise, ecology, landscape and visual monitoring. The construction of the Project and the EM&A programme commenced on 1 April 2008.

This report documented the findings of EM&A works conducted in the period between 1 and 331 0 AprilMay 20089. As informed by the Contractor, construction activitiesies in the reporting period wereere:

Tes

-          Soil nailing works at Portion B2;

-          Soil nail head construction at Portion C;

-          Rock slope stabilization works at Portion D; and

-          Slope reinstatement works at Portion A1 and Portion A2.

-            t Nails (5 nos.) for Pull Out Test at Portion A1 (i.e. from Row A to Row P);

-            Permanent Nails installation at Portion A1; and

-            Site Clearance for soil nail setting out to Portion B2 (i.e. from Row X to Row AK).

Breaches of Action and Limit LevelsThe baseline monitoring of air quality was carried out between 14 and 31 January 2007 at two designated locations. Air quality was recorded in terms of 1-hour Total Suspended Particulates (TSP) and 24-hour TSP. The weather during the monitoring period was mainly fine with a few occasions of rains. For baseline noise levels, the regular noise monitoring results carried out at the designated monitoring stations under the requirements of Environmental Permit (EP-235/2005/A) were referenced.

There was no action / limit level exceedance recorded for 1-hour and 24-hour TSP monitoring.

In the reporting month, all noise level recorded complied with the limit level.

Complaint, Notification of Summons and Successful Prosecution

EPD referred EPtwo complaints from residents nearby Po Shan Mansions, regarding construction dust emission from the slope work at Po Shan Road. Through on-site investigation, construction dust could potentially be generated from soil nail drilling works of the Project. Although all the 1-hr and 24-hr TSP monitoring results in May 2009 did not exceed the Action levels, the Contractor was recommended to improve mitigation measures to prevent dust emission as far as possible. EPD had inspected the site on 22 May 2009 and had no adverse comment on the dust control measures carried out on site. During follow-up site inspections by ET, enhanced mitigation measures were taken by the Contractor and no significant construction or fugitive dust was observed.

D received an enquiry regarding the dust emission on hillside behind Po Shan Mansions and conveyed their concerns to ER and Contractor in the reporting month. Improved mitigation measures to prevent excessive dust emission during soil nail drilling were taken by the Contractor. EPD had inspected the site on 26 May 2009 and had no adverse comment on the dust control measures currently carried out on site.

There was no complaint, notification of summons and successful prosecution received in the reporting month.

 

Reporting Change

There was no reporting change required in the reporting month.

Future Key Issues

The weather in the forthcoming month is expected to be wet and windy. The Contractor should provide preventive measures to prevent any muddy runoff, such as proper collection and treatment of the runoff and provide a functional temporary drainage system in site.

It is also recommended to implement all necessary preventive measures to avoid oil leakage on ground / soil, such as provision of drip trays for all oil drums / chemical containers. In the event of oil leakage, the Contractor should properly remove the contaminated soil and dispose of as chemical waste. Construction waste and general refuse should be properly collected and disposed of.

1.      INTRODUCTION

Background

1.1               The project site is located at the mostly undeveloped hillside above the residential development at Po Shan Road and adjacent to the trimmed back slope on the site of the catastrophic 1972 Po Shan Road failure. Previous studies had been carried out and results indicated that the natural hillside above Po Shan Road is affected by high groundwater level and unfavourable geology. Sub-surface drainage measures by means of sub-horizontal drains had been installed in 1984-85. These measures have been successful in lowering the main ground water table, thus improving the stability of the slopes such that large-scale failure have not occurred in the last twenty years.

 

1.2               The objective of the Project “Landslide Preventive Works at Po Shan, Mid-levels ?Design and Construction (Natural Terrain Risk Mitigation Works)?under Contract CE 28/2004 (GE) is to carry out detailed design and supervision of landslide preventive works on local repair of the hillside to minimize slope deterioration and shallow instability.

 

1.3               The proposed landslide preventive works would be constructed to protect the existing residential developments at the toe of the project site.

 

1.4               The scope of works of this Project includes the installation about 700 numbers of soil nails and about 60 numbers of raking drains on the natural terrain within the concerned area. The length of the soil nails is about 20m with a spacing of 2m horizontally and 3m vertically; the length of raking drains is about 10m with a spacing of 5m horizontally and 15m vertically.

 

1.5               The Project is anticipated to complete in 10 months after the commencement of construction.

 

1.6               According to the Environmental Permit (EP-235/2005/B) and the EM&A Manual of the Project, there is a need of an EM&A programme including air quality, noise, ecology, and landscape and visual monitoring.

 

1.7               ENSR Asia (HK) Ltd., which was integrated into AECOM Asia Company Limited as of 1 May 2009, was employed by the Contractor, China State ?China Railway Joint Venture, as the Environmental Team (ET) to undertake the Environmental Monitoring and Audit (EM&A) works for the Project. In accordance with the EM&A Manual of the Project, environmental monitoring of air quality, noise, ecology, landscape and visual and environmental site inspections would be required for this Project.

Scope of Report

1.8               This is the fourteenth monthly Environmental Monitoring and Audit (EM&A) Report under the Contract CE 28/2004 (GE) ?Landslide Preventive Works at Po Shan Road, Mid-Levels ?Design and Construction (Natural Terrain Risk Mitigation Works). This report presented a summary of the environmental monitoring and audit works, list of activities, and mitigation measures proposed by the ET for the Project in May 2009.

Project Organization

1.9               The project organization is shown in Appendix A. The key personnel contact names and numbers are summarized in Table 1.1

.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Table 1.1    ?Contact Information of Key Personnel

Party

Position

Name

Telephone

Fax

CEDD

Senior Engineer

H. W. Sun

2762 5375

2714 0247

ER (MGS)

Resident Engineer

Freddie Chan

3188 0400

3188 0775

Assistant Resident Engineer

S. F. Chau

3188 0400

3188 0775

IEC (ENVIRON)

Independent Environmental Checker

David Yeung

3743 0788

3548 6988

Contractor (CCJV)

Project Manager

C. Y. Mak

3188 0538

3188 1710

Safety and Environmental Officer

Brian Yam

3188 0538

3188 1710

ET (ENSR)

ET Leader

Edith Ng

3105 8525

2891 0305

 

Summary of Construction Works

1.10            The Contactor has carried out major activities in the reporting month. Details of the works undertaken in this reporting period are listed below:

 

-          Soil nailing works at Portion B2;

-          Soil nail head construction at Portion C;

-          Rock slope stabilization works at Portion D; and

-          Slope reinstatement works at Portion A1 and Portion A2.

 

1.11            The general layout plan of the Project site showing the contract area is shown in Figure 1.1. The construction programme is provided in Appendix B.

 

1.12            The mitigation measures implementation schedule are presented in Appendix C.

 

Summary of EM&A Programme Requirements

1.13            The EM&A programme required environmental monitoring for air quality, noise, ecology and landscape and visual and environmental site inspections for air quality, noise, ecology, landscape and visual and waste management. The EM&A requirements for each parameter described in the following sections include:

 

-          All monitoring parameters;

-          Monitoring schedules for the reporting month and forthcoming months;

-          Action and Limit levels for all environmental parameters;

-          Event / Action Plan;

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

-          Environmental requirement in contract documents.

 

 

2.      ?/span>AIR QUALITY

Monitoring Requirements

2.1               In accordance with the EM&A Manual, 1-hour and 24-hour TSP levels at 2 air quality monitoring stations were established. Impact 1-hour and 24-hour TSP monitoring was conducted for at least once every 7 days during the construction phase of the Project. The Action and Limit level of the air quality monitoring is provided in Appendix D.

Monitoring Equipment

2.2               24-hour TSP air quality monitoring was performed using High Volume Sampler (HVS) located at each designated monitoring station. The HVS meets all the requirements of the EM&A Manual. Portable direct reading dust meters were used to carry out the 1-hour TSP monitoring. Table 2.1 summarises the equipment used.

 

Table 2.1    ?Air Quality Monitoring Equipment

Equipment

Model

High Volume Sampler

GS 2310 Accu-vol system

Calibrator

GMW 25

1-hour TSP Dust Meter

Laser Dust Monitor ?Model LD-3

 

Monitoring Parameters, Frequency and Duration

2.3               Table 2.2 summarizes the monitoring parameters, frequency and duration of impact TSP monitoring.

 

Table 2.2    ?Air Quality Monitoring Parameters, Frequency and Duration

Monitoring Station

Parameter

Frequency and Duration

CA1 & CA2

24-hour TSP

At least once every 7 days

1-hour TSP

At least 3 times every 7 days

Monitoring Locations

2.4               Both monitoring stations were set up at the proposed locations in accordance with EM&A Manual. Table 2.3 describes details of the two monitoring stations. The monitoring locations are shown in Figure 2.1.

 

Table 2.3    ?Locations of Air Quality Monitoring Stations

Monitoring Station

Identity / Description

CA1

Access road to Po Shan Mansions

CA2

Podium of Hamilton Court

 

 

 

 

 

Monitoring Methodology

24-hour TSP Monitoring

 

Installation

 

2.5               The HVS was installed in the vicinity of the air sensitive receivers.? The following criteria were considered in the installation of the HVS.

?span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'>         A horizontal platform with appropriate support to secure the sampler against gusty wind was provided.

?span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'>         The distance between the HVS and any obstacles, such as buildings, was at least twice the height that the obstacle protrudes above the HVS.

?span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'>         A minimum of 2 meters separation from walls, parapets and penthouse was required for rooftop sampler.

?span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'>         No furnace or incinerator flues were nearby.

?span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'>         Airflow around the sampler was unrestricted.

?span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'>         Permission was obtained to set up the samplers and to obtain access to the monitoring stations.

?span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'>         A secured supply of electricity is needed to operate the samplers.

 

Preparation of Filter Papers

 

?span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'>         Glass fibre filters, G810 were labeled and sufficient filters that were clean and without pinholes were selected.

?span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'>         All filters were equilibrated in the conditioning environment for 24 hours before weighing.? The conditioning environment temperature was around 25 °C and not variable by more than ?st1:chmetcnv UnitName="ﾰC" SourceValue="3" HasSpace="True" Negative="False" NumberType="1" TCSC="0" w:st="on">3 °C; the relative humidity (RH) was < 50% and not variable by more than ?%.?A convenient working RH was 40%.

?span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'>         ALS Technichem (HK) Pty Ltd. has comprehensive quality assurance and quality control programmes.

 

Field Monitoring

 

?span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'>         The power supply was checked to ensure the HVS works properly.

?span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'>         The filter holder and the area surrounding the filter were cleaned.

?span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'>         The filter holder was removed by loosening the four bolts and a new filter, with stamped number upward, on a supporting screen was aligned carefully.

?span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'>         The filter was properly aligned on the screen so that the gasket formed an airtight seal on the outer edges of the filter.

?span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'>         The swing bolts were fastened to hold the filter holder down to the frame.?The pressure applied should be sufficient to avoid air leakage at the edges.

?span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'>         Then the shelter lid was closed and was secured with the aluminum strip.

?span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'>         The HVS was warmed-up for about 5 minutes to establish run-temperature conditions.

?span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'>         A new flowrate record sheet was set into the flow recorder.

?span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'>         The range specified in the EM&A Manual was between 0.6-1.7 m3/min.

?span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'>         The programmable timer was set for a sampling period of 24 hrs + 1 hr, and the starting time, weather condition and the filter number were recorded.

?span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'>         The initial elapsed time was recorded.

?span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'>         At the end of sampling, the sampled filter was removed carefully and folded in half length so that only surfaces with collected particulate matter were in contact.

?span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'>         It was then placed in a clean plastic envelope and sealed.

?span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'>         All monitoring information was recorded on a standard data sheet.

?span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'>         Filters were sent to ALS Technichem (HK) Pty Ltd.?for analysis.

 

Maintenance and Calibration

 

?span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'>         The HVS and its accessories are maintained in good working condition, such as replacing motor brushes routinely and checking electrical wiring to ensure a continuous power supply.

?span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'>         HVSs are calibrated using GMW-25 Calibration Kit prior to the commencement of baseline air quality monitoring, and will be calibrated at bi-monthly intervals throughout all stages of the impact monitoring.

?span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'>         Calibration records are shown in Appendix E.

 

1-hour TSP Monitoring

 

Measuring Procedures

 

2.6               The measuring procedures of the 1-hour dust meter are in accordance with the Manufacturer’s Instruction Manual as follows:

?span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'>        Set POWER to “ON? push BATTERY button, make sure that the meter’s indicator is in the range with a red line and allow the instrument to stand for about 3 minutes (Then, the air sampling inlet has been capped).

?span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'>        Push the knob at MEASURE position.

?span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'>        Push “O-ADJ?button. (Then meter’s indication is 0).

?span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'>        Push the knob at SENSI ADJ position and set the meter’s indication to S value described on the Test Report using the trimmer for SENSI ADJ.

?span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'>        Pull out the knob and return it to MEASURE position.

?span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'>        Push “START?button.

 

Maintenance and Calibration

 

?span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'>        The 1-hour TSP meter would be checked at 3-month intervals and calibrated at 1-year intervals throughout all stages of the air quality baseline monitoring. Calibration records are shown in Appendix E.

Monitoring Results

2.7               The monitoring results for 1-hour TSP and 24-hour TSP are summarized in Table 2.4 and 2.5 respectively and the monitoring results are provided in Appendix F.

 

Table 2.4    ?Summary of 1-hour TSP Monitoring Results in the Reporting Period

 

Average (mg/m3)

Range (mg/m3)

Action Level?(mg/m3)

Limit Level (mg/m3)

CA1

80.7

77.0 ?83.5

309.3

500

CA2

77.6

73.0 ?80.6

319.6

500

 

Table 2.5    ?Summary of 24-hour TSP Monitoring Results in the Reporting Period

 

Average (mg/m3)

Range (mg/m3)

Action Level?(mg/m3)

Limit Level (mg/m3)

CA1

22.7

9.7 ?40.3

166.8

260

CA2

33.4

24.9 ?58.0

187.0

260

 

2.8               Air quality monitoring was carried out for both 1-hour TSP and 24-hour TSP at all the monitoring stations in the reporting month.

 

2.9               The air quality monitoring results, in terms of 1-hour TSP and 24-hour TSP, were below the action and limit level at both monitoring locations in the reporting month. The event action plan is annexed in Appendix G.

 

2.10            Weather information including wind speed and wind direction is annexed in Appendix H. The information was obtained from Hong Kong Observatory Victoria Peak Automatic Weather Station and Central Pier Anemometer Station.

3.      NOISE MONITORING

Monitoring Requirements

3.1               In accordance with the EM&A Manual, impact noise levels should be obtained at 2 noise monitoring stations. Impact noise monitoring was conducted for at least once per week during the construction phase of the Project. The Action and Limit level of the noise monitoring is provided in Appendix D.

Monitoring Equipment

3.2               Integrating Sound Level Meter was employed for noise monitoring.?They were Type 1 sound level meters capable of giving a continuous readout of the noise level readings including equivalent continuous sound pressure level (Leq) and percentile sound pressure level (Lx). They comply with International Electrotechnical Commission Publications 651:1979 (Type 1) and 804:1985 (Type 1).?Portable electronic wind speed indicator capable of measuring wind speed in m/s was employed to check the wind speed.?Table 3.1 details the noise monitoring equipment used.

 

Table 3.1    ?Noise Monitoring Equipment

Equipment

Model

Integrating Sound Level Meter

Rion NL-31

Calibrator

Rion NC-73

Monitoring Locations

3.3               Two monitoring stations were set up in accordance with EM&A Manual. Table 3.2 describes details of the two monitoring stations. The monitoring locations are shown in Figure 2.1.

 

Table 3.2    ?Locations of Noise Monitoring Stations

Monitoring Station

Identity / Description

CN1

Block A, Po Shan Mansions

CN2

Block A, Po Shan Mansions

Monitoring Parameters

3.4               One set of 30-mins measurement at each monitoring station between 0700 and 1900 on normal weekdays at a frequency of once per week was required to determine the impact noise level. Leq, L10 and L90 would be recorded.

Monitoring Methodology

Monitoring Procedures

?span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'>         The Sound Level Meter was set on a tripod at a height of 1.2 m above the ground.

?span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'>         Façade measurements were made at all three monitoring locations.

?span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'>         The battery condition was checked to ensure the correct functioning of the meter.

?span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'>         Parameters such as frequency weighting, the time weighting and the measurement time were set as follows:

-         frequency weighting: A

-         time weighting: Fast

-         time measurement: Leq(30 minutes) during non-restricted hours i.e. between 07:00 and 19:00 on normal weekdays

?span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'>         Prior to and after each noise measurement, the meter was calibrated using a Calibrator for 94 dB at 1000 Hz.?If the difference in the calibration level before and after measurement was more than 1 dB(A), the measurement would be considered invalid and repeat of noise measurement would be required after re-calibration or repair of the equipment.

?span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'>         The wind speed was frequently checked with a portable wind meter.

?span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'>         During the monitoring period, the Leq , L10 and L90 were recorded.?In addition, site conditions and noise sources were recorded on a standard record sheet.

?span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'>         Noise measurement was paused during periods of high intrusive noise (e.g. dog barking, helicopter noise) if possible. Observations were recorded when intrusive noise was unavoidable.

?span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'>         Noise monitoring was cancelled in the presence of fog, rain, wind with a steady speed exceeding 5 m/s, or wind with gusts exceeding 10 m/s.

Maintenance and Calibration

?span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'>         The microphone head of the sound level meter and calibrator is cleaned with soft cloth at quarterly intervals.

?span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'>         The meter should be checked and calibrated at yearly intervals.

?span style='font:7.0pt "Times New Roman"'>         Calibration details for the sound level meter and calibrator are provided in Appendix E.

Monitoring Results

3.5               The monitoring results for noise are summarized in Table 3.3 and the monitoring data is provided in Appendix I.

 

Table 3.3    ?Summary of Noise Monitoring Results in the Reporting Period

 

Average, dB(A), Leq (30 mins)

Range, dB(A), Leq (30 mins)

Limit Level, dB(A), Leq (30 mins)

CN1

61.7

61.0 ?62.7

75.0

CN2

60.8

60.4 ?61.0

75.0

 

3.6               There was no noise complaint received in the reporting month, hence, no action level exceedance was recorded. At both monitoring locations, CN1 and CN2, all the monitoring results (daytime) were below the limit level of 75 dB(A).

 

3.7               All the monitoring results lied within the range of the predicted noise levels in the EIA report.

 

3.8               Major noise sources during the noise monitoring included the construction activities from the Project and another project under the same contract (concurrent project) carried out in the vicinity and nearby traffic noise.

 

 

4.      VEGETATION MONITORING

Monitoring Requirement

4.1               As required under Environmental Permit No. EP-235/2005/B, the Permit Holder is required to carry out monitoring of the plant species of conservation interest to check on the health and condition of the plants twice a month during the construction period of the Project.

 

4.2               It is required to undertake the ecological tasks to fulfill the requirements of the Environmental Permit (EP).?As required by Conditions 2.11 and 3.5 of the EP, a suitably qualified ecologist with 7 or more years of relevant experience shall be employed to conduct the ecological monitoring.

 

Monitoring Location

4.3               The ecological monitoring was carried out for plant individuals of conservation interest identified within the proposed works area.

 

Monitoring Methodology

4.4               The ecological monitoring was conducted twice in the reporting month on 5 May 2009 by Mr. Ryan H W Wong and on 26 May 2009 by Ms. Gigi C C Lam, who had over 7 years of relevant ecological experience.

 

4.5               The plants of conservation interest, which were tagged during the baseline survey, were checked during each monitoring.

 

Monitoring Results

4.6               Soil nailing works were in progress during the monitoring visits.?

 

4.7               A vegetation of conservation V018 located during the last monitoring visit was found to be in very poor condition.?

 

4.8               Part of the plant species of conservation interest were not properly fenced off or tagged, particularly in works area above Row AD.?The Contractor was advised to fence off and label the vegetation properly with a clear sign notable to all the construction workers and restrict any unauthorized access to the area.

 

4.9               Some vegetation and plant species of conservation interest located near soil nailing work areas were densely covered with soil and dust.

 

4.10            Hardened grout was found in the natural habitat near the Project area.?To prevent the plant from being affected by grout leakage and muddy site run-off, the Contractor was reminded to remove any grout from the natural habitat as soon as possible and add sand bags around the hardened grout.   

 

5.      ?LANDSCAPE AND VISUAL

Monitoring Requirement

5.1               During the construction phase of the Project, landscape and visual monitoring should be carried out bi-weekly by a Registered Landscape Architect (RLA) to check if the design, implementation and maintenance of the landscape and visual mitigation measures are fully realized. A detailed report is annexed in Appendix J.

 

Summary of Inspection ?5 May 2009

Matters Arising from Previous Inspections

 

5.2               It was still observed that the termite infected dead tree T534 along the footpath stair was still not removed.?The Contractor was reminded to urgently remove the infected dead tree for consideration of safety of the workers and the public in future.

 

5.3               It was still observed that no further rectification of tree ID numbers was carried out since the last couple of inspections.?The Contractor was reminded to rectify the missing tree ID numbers on the remaining existing trees as soon as possible.

 

5.4               It was noted that compensatory planting proposal for the replacement of dead tree T611 was outstanding.?The Contractor was recommended to seek Engineer’s agreement on the replacement planting as soon as possible.

 

5.5               It was noted that the Contractor’s clarification of the status of existing trees T516, T517, T666, and T698 located immediately outside of the works boundary was outstanding.?The Contractor was reminded to provide necessary information as soon as possible.

 

Protection of Existing Trees

 

5.6               It was observed that electrical cables were strung overhead and hanged from tree branches.?The Contractor was requested to remove the electrical cables away from the trees as soon as possible.

 

Recommendations

 

5.7               The Contractor was recommended to remove the dead tree T534 from site for safety considerations, especially the tree was found infected by termite.?The Contractor was also reminded to record and report all dead trees as found on site to the Engineer for record.

 

5.8               The Contractor was again reminded to rectify all remaining ineligible tree ID numbers for all existing trees.

 

5.9               The Contractor was again reminded d to clarify the status of missing trees as soon as possible.

 

5.10            The Contractor was again reminded to seek Engineer’s agreement on the replacement planting for dead tree.

 

5.11            The Contractor was recommended to remove the electrical cables away from existing trees and not to use trees as support in future.

 

 

Summary of Inspection ?19 May 2009

Matters Arising from Previous Inspections

 

5.12            The Contractor had cleared the overhead electrical cables from existing trees.

 

5.13            Removal of the termite infected dead tree T534 along the footpath stair was still outstanding.?The Contractor was reminded to urgently remove the infected dead tree as soon as possible.

 

5.14            It was still observed that no further rectification of tree ID numbers was carried out since the last few inspections.?The Contractor was reminded to rectify the missing tree ID numbers on the remaining existing trees as soon as possible.

 

5.15            It was noted that compensatory planting proposal for the replacement of dead tree T611 was outstanding.?The Contractor was recommended to seek Engineer’s agreement on the replacement planting as soon as possible.

 

5.16            It was noted that the Contractor’s clarification of the status of existing trees T516, T517, T666, and T698 located immediately outside of the works boundary was outstanding.?The Contractor was reminded to provide necessary information as soon as possible.

 

Protection of Existing Trees

 

5.17            It was observed that the Contractor had tied safety ropes around the base of several existing trees.?The Contractor was reminded that the practice was not acceptable and was requested to remove the ropes as soon as possible.

 

Recommendations

 

5.18            The Contractor was again reminded to remove the dead tree T534 from site for safety considerations as soon as possible, especially the tree was found infected by termite.?The Contractor was also reminded to record and report all dead trees as found on site to the Engineer for record.

 

5.19            The Contractor was reminded to rectify all remaining ineligible / missing tree ID numbers for all existing trees.

 

5.20            The Contractor was again reminded to clarify the status of missing trees as soon as possible.

 

5.21            The Contractor was again reminded to seek Engineer’s agreement on the replacement planting for dead trees.

 

5.22            The Contractor was recommended to remove the safety ropes away from the base of the existing trees and not to use trees as support in future.

Next Landscape and Visual Audit Schedule

5.23            The landscape and visual audits in the next reporting month was tentatively scheduled to 2, 16 and 30 June 2009.

 

 

 

6.      ?ENVIRONMENTAL SITE INSPECTION AND AUDIT

 

Site Inspection

6.1               Site Inspections were carried out on a weekly basis to monitor the implementation of proper environmental pollution control and mitigation measures for the Project. In the reporting month, 4 site inspections were carried out on 5, 12, 19 and 26 May 2009. The detail findings of the landscape and visual audits in the reporting month are presented separately in Section 5. The environmental site inspection summaries are attached in Appendix K. Particular observations are described below.

 

Air Quality

 

6.2               No adverse observation was identified in the reporting month.

 

Noise

 

6.3               No adverse observation was identified in the reporting month.

 

Water Quality

 

6.4               Loose sediment was observed accumulated on the platform at Row AF. The Contractor was reminded to clear the sediment regularly and as soon as the soil nailing operation finishes.

 

Chemical and Waste Management

 

6.5               A chemical container was observed placed on ground without drip tray at Row AH. The Contractor was reminded to provide drip trays to all chemicals on site.

 

6.6               A hole was found on the drip tray at Row AA and oily water was running out. The Contractor was requested to fix the drip tray as soon as possible.

 

6.7               Cement powder was observed scattered on the platform at Row AH. While immediate action by Contractor to clear the cement powder into sand bags, the Contractor was still reminded to properly handle all chemicals on site.

 

Ecology

 

6.8               A plant species of conservation interest (V018) was in very poor condition

 

6.9               Some vegetation of conservation interest were not properly fenced off and not tagged.

 

6.10            Vegetation and plant species of conservation interest located near soil nailing work areas were densely covered with soil and dust.

 

6.11            Hardened grout was found in the natural habitat near the Project area.?

 

Landscape and Visual

 

6.12            It was still observed that the termite infected dead tree T534 along the footpath stair was still not removed.?The Contractor was reminded to urgently remove the infected dead tree for consideration of safety of the workers and the public in future.

 

6.13            It was still observed that no further rectification of tree ID numbers was carried out since the last couple of inspections.?The Contractor was reminded to rectify the missing tree ID numbers on the remaining existing trees as soon as possible.

 

6.14            It was noted that compensatory planting proposal for the replacement of dead tree T611 was outstanding.?The Contractor was recommended to seek Engineer’s agreement on the replacement planting as soon as possible.

 

6.15            It was noted that the Contractor’s clarification of the status of existing trees T516, T517, T666, and T698 located immediately outside of the works boundary was outstanding.?The Contractor was reminded to provide necessary information as soon as possible.

6.16            It was observed that electrical cables were strung overhead and hanged from tree branches.?The Contractor was requested to remove the electrical cables away from the trees as soon as possible.

 

6.17            It was observed that the Contractor had tied safety ropes around the base of several existing trees.?The Contractor was reminded that the practice was not acceptable and was requested to remove the ropes as soon as possible.

 

Assessment of Environmental Monitoring Results

6.18            All monitoring results were audited against the Action / Limit levels and any exceedance would be validated and issued when necessary.

 

6.19            The monitoring results in the reporting period were comparable with the EIA predictions. Detailed discussions are given in Section 2 and 3.

 

Advice on the Solid and Liquid Waste Management Status

6.20            The Contractor is registered as a chemical waste producer for this Project. The Chemical Waste Storage Area located at the Contractor’s site office area was properly maintained in the reporting month.

 

6.21            As advised by the Contractor, 34.18 ton of non-inert C&D waste and 15.93 ton of inert C&D waste were disposed offsite to SENT landfill and Chai Wan respectively in the reporting month. Also 20kg of chemical waste was collected by licenced waste collector in the reporting month. C&D waste generated was reused on site as much as possible.

 

 

Environmental Licenses and Permits

6.22            The environmental licenses and permits for this Project and valid in the reporting month is summarized in Table 6.1.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Table 6.1    ?Summary of Environmental Licensing and Permit Status

Description

Permit No.

Valid Period

Remarks

From

To

Environmental Permit

EP-235/2005/B

23/11/07

--

-   Installation of about 700 nos. of soil nails and about 60 nos. of raking drains in the natural terrain;

-   Rock slope stabilisation works at upper portion of the natural terrain; and

-   Other associated works.

Registration as a Chemical Waste Producer

5213-141-C3250-02

13/12/06

--

Spent lubricating oil and mineral oil

Effluent Discharge License

EP880/W10/XX0261

07/11/06

31/12/11

--

Notification of Constriction Work under APCO (Construction Dust)

001012125

18/07/06

--

--

Implementation Status of Environmental Mitigation Measures

6.23            In response to the site audit findings, the Contractor carried out corrective actions.

 

6.24            A summary of the Implementation Schedule of Mitigation Measures (EMIS) is presented in Appendix C. Most of the necessary mitigation measures were implemented properly.

Summary of Exceedances of the Environmental Quality Performance Limit

6.25            All 1-hour TSP, 24-hour TSP and noise monitoring results complied with the Action / Limit levels.

 

6.26            No exceedance was recorded in the reporting month.

Summary of Complaints, Notification of Summons and Successful Prosecutions

6.27            The Environmental Complaint Handling Procedure is annexed in Figure 6.1.

 

6.28            EPD referred two complaints, one on 15 May 2009 and one on 19 May 2009, from residents nearby Po Shan Mansions, regarding construction dust emission from the slope work at Po Shan Road. Through on-site investigation on 19 May 2008, construction dust could potentially be generated from soil nail drilling works of the Project. Although all the 1-hr and 24-hr TSP monitoring results in May 2009 did not exceed the Action levels, the Contractor was recommended to improve mitigation measures to prevent dust emission as far as possible, such as enhancement of tarpaulin enclosures and watering facilities, during soil nail drilling works. EPD had inspected the site on 22 May 2009 and had no adverse comment on the dust control measures carried out on site. During follow-up site inspections by ET on 26 May 2009, enhanced mitigation measures were taken by the Contractor and no significant construction or fugitive dust was observed.

 

6.29            No notification of summons and successful prosecutions was received in the reporting month.

 

7.      FUTURE KEY ISSUES

Construction Programme for the Coming Months

7.1               The construction programme for the Project is provided in Appendix B.

 

7.2               The major construction work in June 2009 will be:

 

-          Rock slope stabilization works at Portion D;

-          Soil nail heads construction at Portion B2 and Portion C;

-          Soil nailing works at Portion B2; and

-          Slope reinstatement works at Portion A2 and Portion B1.

Key Issues for Coming Month

7.3               Key issues to be considered in the coming month included:

-          Sufficient dust suppression measures should be maintained;

-          Collection of construction waste should be carried out regularly;

-          Site runoff should be properly collected and treated prior to discharge;

-          Construction activities should avoid causing damage to the trees and to plants species of conservation interest; and

-          Quieter powered mechanical equipment should be used.

 

7.4               The following mitigation measures are required:

 

Air Quality Impact

-          Regular watering should be used during soil nailing;

-          Dusty material stockpiled should be completely covered;

-          Dusty activities should be re-scheduled if high-wind conditions encountered;

-          Open burning should be strictly prohibited;

-          All dusty vehicle loads transporting to, from and between site locations should be covered with tarpaulin;

-          Vehicle wheel and body washing facilities should be used at all exit points of the site;

-          Wind shield, dust extraction units or water spraying should be used at the loading points.

 

Construction Noise Impact

-          Quieter powered mechanical equipment should be used;

-          Insulating fabric should be used for drill rigs during drilling process;

-          Noise generating construction works should be carried out during daytime only;

-          Noise barriers or other measures should be used to minimize disturbance to the bat roost;

-          Plant on site should be properly maintained and serviced regularly;

-          Mobile plants should be sited as far from NSRs as possible;

-          Machines and plant in intermittent use should be throttled down;

-          Strong noise emitting plants, wherever possible, should be oriented so that noise is directed away from the nearby NSRs;

-          Material stockpiles, wherever possible, should be effectively utilized to screen noise from construction activities;

-          Movable noise barrier with surface mass in excess of 7kg/m2 should be used for PME wherever possible;

-          Noise insulating fabric should be adopted for drill rig operating in Works Area E.

 

Water Quality Impact

-          Prevent runoff water from entering the nearby water-bodies;

-          Silt traps and oil / grease separators should be regularly cleaned and maintained;

-          Outlet pipe extending above the slope surface should be installed;

-          Air should be used as the flushing medium of the drilling equipment;

-          Earth bunds or sand bag barriers should be provided on-site to direct storm water to silt removal facilities;

-          Exposed slope / soil surface and opened stockpile of more than 50m3 should be covered with tarpaulin;

-          Oils and fuels should be used and stored in designated area.

 

Chemical and Waste Management

-          Debris and rubbish on-site should be collected, handled and disposed of properly;

-          Waste skips should be provided to collect general refuse and construction wastes;

-          Soil contamination with fuel leaked from construction plants should be removed off-site;

-          Sufficient waste disposal points with regular collection should be provided;

-          Appropriate measures should be provided to minimize windblown litter and dust during transportation of waste;

-          Different containers should be used to segregate and store different types of waste;

-          Encourage collection of aluminum cans, PET bottles and paper by providing separate bins;

-          Unused chemicals should be recycles wherever possible;

-          Proper storage and site practices should be adopted to minimize the potential for damage and contamination of construction materials;

-          Oils and fuels should be stored in designated area;

-          Plan and stock construction materials carefully to minimize waste generation.

 

Ecological Impact

-          Soil nail installation should avoid / minimize damage of root system to the existing plants;

-          Fences should be erected along the boundary of the works area

-          Disturbance to the natural woodland and shrubland habitats should be minimized by preventing tipping, vehicle movements and encroachment of personnel onto the adjacent area;

-          Permanent casing should be provided to the drillhole of soil nail;

-          Placement of equipment or stockpile should be located in designated areas to minimize disturbance to natural or moderate-high ecological value habitats;

-          Construction activities should be restricted to works areas;

-          Disturbance to existing vegetation should be minimized wherever possible.

 

Landscape and Visual Impact

-          Designation of “no-intrusion zones?and record any trespass and damage to existing vegetation;

-          Soil nails on site should avoid tree trunks and tree roots;

-          Dust and erosion control should be provided for exposed soil;

-          For tree planting operations, method statement should be checked against specification requirements;

-          All retained trees within the working boundary should be checked regularly;

-          Control over appearance of hoarding, construction plants / machines;

-          Security floodlights should be carefully selected to avoid light pollution.

Monitoring Schedule for the Coming Months

7.5               The tentative schedule for environmental monitoring in June 2009 is provided in Appendix L.

8.      CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

Conclusions

8.1               The construction phase of the project commenced in April 2008.

 

8.2               1-hour TSP and 24-hour TSP monitoring was carried out in the reporting month. All monitoring results complied with the action / limit level. No exceedance was recorded.

 

8.3               All impact daytime noise monitoring results complied with the limit level in the reporting month.

 

8.4               Environmental site inspections were carried out 4 times in May 2009. Recommendations on remedial actions were given to the Contractor for the deficiencies identified during the site audit.

 

8.5               Two landscape and visual audits were carried out in the reporting month. The Contractor had tied safety ropes around the base of several existing trees.?The Contractor was reminded that the practice was not acceptable and was requested to remove the ropes as soon as possible.

 

8.6               Two ecological audits were carried out in the reporting month.?The Contractor was reminded to properly tag all the vegetation of conservation interest and all tagged plants of conservation interest in the affected area should be located and fenced off properly with clear sign to avoid any further damage and restrict any unauthorized access of site workers to the area.?The leaves of vegetation within works areas should be washed regularly to avoid excessive dust deposition. To further protect the other vegetation/tree, the Contractor was recommended to remove any grout and soil nailing machine from the natural habitat as well as add sand bags around the hardened grout.

 

8.7               Two environmental complaints, and no notification of summons and prosecution, were received in the reporting month.

Recommendations

8.8               According to the environmental site inspections performed in the reporting month, the following recommendations were provided:

 

Air Quality Impact

-          Soil nail workstations on site should be properly enclosed; and

-          Water spraying should be provided during soil nailing works.

 

Construction Noise Impact

-          Nil

 

Water Quality Impact

-          Sedimentation tanks on site should be properly maintained;

-          Site effluent must be collected and treated prior to discharge to public drain;

-          U-channels should be kept clear of mud, debris, leaves, construction waste and materials; and

-          Soil and exposed earth at all working platforms and slopes should be cleaned up.

 

Chemical and Waste Management

-          Drip trays should be provided to all plants and chemical containers on site;

-          Oils and fuels should be stored in designated area;

-          Empty chemical containers should be disposed of as chemical waste;

-          C&D waste, debris and general refuse on-site should be collected, handled and disposed of properly; and

-          Waste skips should be provided to collect general refuse and construction wastes.

 

Ecological Impact

-          The Contractor was reminded to take all necessary actions to prevent grout leakage and muddy run-off to the surrounding natural environment;

-          All identified vegetation of conservation interest should be preserved;

-          All site access should be clearly demarcated and no excessive removal of vegetation in natural areas adjacent to the site access should be allowed;

-          All plant species of conservation interest should be fenced off and tagged properly with clear sign, especially for those located near major access road and areas likely to be impacted by construction activities;

-          The Contractor was recommended to take necessary measures to prevent damage to all vegetation within the construction site; and

-          Dust and soil on vegetation should be washed away in a timely manner.

 

Landscape and Visual Impact

-          The Contractor was reminded to remove the dead tree T534 from site for safety considerations as soon as possible, especially the tree was found infected by termite.?The Contractor was also reminded to record and report all dead trees as found on site to the Engineer for record;

-          The Contractor was reminded to rectify all remaining ineligible / missing tree ID numbers for all existing trees;

-          The Contractor was again reminded to clarify the status of missing trees as soon as possible;

-          The Contractor was again reminded to seek Engineer’s agreement on the replacement planting for dead trees;

-          The Contractor was recommended to remove the safety ropes away from the base of the existing trees and not to use trees as support in future; and

-          The Contractor was recommended to remove the electrical cables away from existing trees and not to use trees as support in future.

 

Future Key Issues

The weather in the forthcoming month is expected to be wet and windy. The Contractor should provide preventive measures to maintain sufficient dust suppression measuresprevent any muddy runoff, such as proper collection and treatment of the runoff and provide a functional temporary drainage system in site.

It is also recommended to implement all necessary preventive measures to avoid oil leakage on ground / soil, such as provision of drip trays for all oil drums / chemical containers. In the event of oil leakage, the Contractor should properly remove the contaminated soil and dispose of as chemical waste. Construction waste and general refuse should be properly collected and disposed of.

 

The averaged 1-hour TSP was 91.3 mg/m3 at CA1 and 107.1 mg/m3 at CA2, with the highest concentration recorded at CA2 on 18 January 2008. The averaged 24-hour TSP was 56.6 mg/m3 at CA1 and 87.7 mg/m3 at CA2, with the highest concentration recorded at CA2 on 20 January 2008.

Baseline noise monitoring data was obtained from daytime noise monitoring results of the existing noise monitoring locations at Po Shan Mansions as required under the Environmental Permit EP-235/2005/A.

For the baseline vegetation survey, a total of 12 species of 129 individuals of floral species of conservation importance were identified and tagged during the detailed vegetation survey. Their coordinates were also recorded for avoidance of damage during the design of soil nail of raking drains.

Baseline landscape and visual review was carried out in November 2007. The landscape resources in the survey area ranged from low (including southern side of Po Shan Mansions and Piccadilly Mansion) to high (including the woodland within the Pok Fu Lam Country Park, Green Belt above Po Shan Road and roadside planting along Conduit Road, Kotewall Road and Po Shan Road). The survey area consists of two distinct landscape character areas, greenbelt / country park character area and mid-levels residential character area, both are classified as of high landscape sensitivity. The zone of visual influence (ZVI) is quite extensive. There has been no change in the ZVI or VSRs as originally identified in the EIA stage, except the addition of VSR R1E, the future residents of no. 55 Conduit Road.

 

1.8. INTRODUCTION

Background

1.11.13The project site is located at the mostly undeveloped hillside above the residential development at Po Shan Road and adjacent to the trimmed back slope on the site of the catastrophic 1972 Po Shan Road failure. Previous studies had been carried out and results indicated that the natural hillside above Po Shan Road is affected by high groundwater level and unfavourable geology. Sub-surface drainage measures by means of sub-horizontal drains had been installed in 1984-85. These measures have been successful in lowering the main ground water table, thus improving the stability of the slopes such that large-scale failure have not occurred in the last twenty years.

 

1.21.13The objective of the Project “Landslide Preventive Works at Po Shan, Mid-levels ? Design and Construction (Natural Terrain Risk Mitigation Works)?under Contract CE 28/2004 (GE) is to carry out detailed design and supervision of landslide preventive works on local repair of the hillside to minimize slope deterioration and shallow instability.

 

1.31.13The proposed landslide preventive works would be constructed to protect the existing residential developments at the toe of the project site.

 

1.41.13The scope of works of this Project includes the installation about 700 numbers of soil nails and about 60 numbers of raking drains on the natural terrain within the concerned area. The length of the soil nails is about 20m with a spacing of 2m horizontally and 3m vertically; the length of raking drains is about 10m with a spacing of 5m horizontally and 15m vertically.

 

1.51.13The Project is anticipated to complete in 10 months after the commencement of construction.

 

1.61.13According to the Environmental Permit (EP-235/2005/B) and the EM&A Manual of the Project, there is a need of an EM&A programme including air quality, noise, ecology, and landscape and visual monitoring.

 

1.81.13ENSR Asia (HK) Ltd. (ENSR) was employed by the Contractor, China State ?China Railway Joint Venture, as the Environmental Team (ET) to undertake the Environmental Monitoring and Audit (EM&A) works for the Project. In accordance with the EM&A Manual of the Project, environmental baseline monitoring of air quality, noise, ecology, landscape and visual and environmental site inspections would be required for this Project.

Purpose of the Baseline ?/span>Scope of Report

1.81.13This is the first monthly Environmental Monitoring and Audit (EM&A) Report under the Contract CE 28/2004 (GE) ?/del> Landslide Preventive Works at Po Shan Road, Mid-Levels ?/del> Design and Construction (Natural Terrain Risk Mitigation Works). This report presented a summary of the environmental monitoring and audit works, list of activities, and mitigation measures proposed by the ET for the Project in April 2008.

Project Organization

1.13                        The project organization is shown in Appendix A. The key personnel contact names and numbers are summarized in Table 1.1

.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Table 1.1    ?Contact Information of Key Personnel

Party

Position

Name

Telephone

Fax

CEDD

Senior Engineer

Jerry Ho

2760 5700

2714 0247

ER (MGS)

Resident Engineer

Freddie ChanAndrew J. Westmoreland

3188 0400

3188 0775

Assistant Resident Engineer

S. F. Chau

3188 0400

3188 0775

IEC (ENVIRON)

Independent Environmental Checker

David Yeung

3743 0788

3548 6988

Contractor (CCJV)

Project Manager

C. Y. Mak

3188 0538

3188 1710

Safety and Environmental Officer

Ken Fong

3188 0538

3188 1710

ET (ENSR)

ET Leader

Edith Ng

3105 8525

2891 0305

 

Summary of Construction Works

1.101.13The Contactor has carried out major activities in the reporting month. Details of the works undertaken in this reporting period are listed below:

 

-            Test Nails (5 nos.) for Pull Out Test at Portion A1 (i.e. from Row A to Row P);

Permanent Nails installation at Portion A1; and

Site Clearance for soil nail setting out to Portion B2 (i.e. from Row X to Row AK).

 

1.13                        The general layout plan of the Project site showing the contract area is shown in Figure 1.1. The construction programme is provided in Appendix B.

 

1.13                        The mitigation measures implementation schedule are presented in Appendix C.

 

Summary of EM&A Programme Requirements

1.13                        The EM&A programme required environmental monitoring for air quality, noise, ecology and landscape and visual and environmental site inspections for air quality, noise, ecology, landscape and visual and waste management. The EM&A requirements for each parameter described in the following sections include:

 

-            All monitoring parameters;

-            Monitoring schedules for the reporting month and forthcoming months;

-            Action and Limit levels for all environmental parameters;

-            Event / Action Plan;

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

-            Environmental requirement in contract documents.

 

 

8.            BASELINE AIR QUALITY MONITORING

Monitoring Requirements

2.12.10In accordance with the EM&A Manual, baseline 1-hour and 24-hour TSP levels at 2 air quality monitoring stations were established. Baseline Impact 1-hour and 24-hour TSP monitoring was conducted for at least once every 7 days prior to commencement during the of construction phase of the Project. The Action and Limit level of the air quality monitoring is provided in Appendix D.

Monitoring Equipment

2.22.10Continuous 24-hour TSP air quality monitoring was performed using High Volume Sampler (HVS) located at each designated monitoring station. The HVS meets all the requirements of the EM&A Manual. Portable direct reading dust meters were used to carry out the 1-hour TSP monitoring. Table 2.1 summarises the equipment used.

 

Table 2.1    ?Air Quality Monitoring Equipment

Equipment

Model

High Volume Sampler

GS 2310 Accu-vol system

Calibrator

GMW 25

1-hour TSP Dust Meter

Laser Dust Monitor ?/del> Model LD-3

 

Monitoring Parameters, Frequency and Duration

2.32.10Table 2.12 summarizes the monitoring parameters, frequency and duration of baseline impact TSP monitoring.

 

Table 2.21  ?Air Quality Monitoring Parameters, Frequency and Duration

Monitoring Station

Parameter

Frequency and Duration

CA1 & CA2

24-hour TSP

Daily, for aAt least once every 7 days

1-hour TSP

At least 3 times ?/span>(at three consecutive hours) per day, for at least every 7 days

Monitoring Locations

2.42.10Both monitoring stations were set up at the proposed locations in accordance with EM&A Manual. Table 2.32 describes details of the two monitoring stations. The monitoring locations are shown in Figure 2.1.

 

Table 2.32  ?Locations of Air Quality Monitoring Stations

Monitoring Station

Identity / Description

CA1

Access road to Po Shan Mansions

CA2

Podium of Hamilton Court

 

2.10                        As requested by the Management Office of the air sensitive receiver Po Shan Mansions, the monitoring station CA1 was relocated to an adjacent location closer to the site, which is still located along the access road to Po Shan Mansions, on 24 April 2008.

 

 

 

 

Monitoring Methodology

24-hour TSP Monitoring

 

Installation

 

2.52.10The HVS was installed in the vicinity of the air sensitive receivers.?The following criteria were considered in the installation of the HVS.

?/span>A horizontal platform with appropriate support to secure the sampler against gusty wind was provided.

?/span>The distance between the HVS and any obstacles, such as buildings, was at least twice the height that the obstacle protrudes above the HVS.

?/span>A minimum of 2 meters separation from walls, parapets and penthouse was required for rooftop sampler.

?/span>No furnace or incinerator flues were nearby.

?/span>Airflow around the sampler was unrestricted.

?/span>Permission was obtained to set up the samplers and to obtain access to the monitoring stations.

?/span>A secured supply of electricity is needed to operate the samplers.

 

 

Preparation of Filter Papers

 

?/span>Glass fibre filters, G810 were labeled and sufficient filters that were clean and without pinholes were selected.

?/span>All filters were equilibrated in the conditioning environment for 24 hours before weighing.?The conditioning environment temperature was around 25 °C and not variable by more than ? °C; the relative humidity (RH) was < 50% and not variable by more than ?%.? A convenient working RH was 40%.

?/span>ALS Technichem (HK) Pty Ltd. has comprehensive quality assurance and quality control programmes.

 

Field Monitoring

 

?/span>The power supply was checked to ensure the HVS works properly.

?/span>The filter holder and the area surrounding the filter were cleaned.

?/span>The filter holder was removed by loosening the four bolts and a new filter, with stamped number upward, on a supporting screen was aligned carefully.

?/span>The filter was properly aligned on the screen so that the gasket formed an airtight seal on the outer edges of the filter.

?/span>The swing bolts were fastened to hold the filter holder down to the frame.?The pressure applied should be sufficient to avoid air leakage at the edges.

?/span>Then the shelter lid was closed and was secured with the aluminum strip.

?/span>The HVS was warmed-up for about 5 minutes to establish run-temperature conditions.

?/span>A new flowrate record sheet was set into the flow recorder.

?/span>The range specified in the EM&A Manual was between 0.6-1.7 m3/min.

?/span>The programmable timer was set for a sampling period of 24 hrs + 1 hr, and the starting time, weather condition and the filter number were recorded.

?/span>The initial elapsed time was recorded.

?/span>At the end of sampling, the sampled filter was removed carefully and folded in half length so that only surfaces with collected particulate matter were in contact.

?/span>It was then placed in a clean plastic envelope and sealed.

?/span>All monitoring information was recorded on a standard data sheet.

?/span>Filters were sent to ALS Technichem (HK) Pty Ltd.?for analysis.

 

Maintenance and Calibration

 

?/span>The HVS and its accessories are maintained in good working condition, such as replacing motor brushes routinely and checking electrical wiring to ensure a continuous power supply.

?/span>HVSs are calibrated using GMW-25 Calibration Kit prior to the commencement of baseline air quality monitoring, and will be calibrated at bi-monthly intervals throughout all stages of the impact monitoring.

?/span>Calibration records are shown in Appendix EA.

 

1-hour TSP Monitoring

 

Measuring Procedures

 

2.62.10The measuring procedures of the 1-hour dust meter are in accordance with the Manufacturer’s Instruction Manual as follows:

?/span>Set POWER to “ON? push BATTERY button, make sure that the meter’s indicator is in the range with a red line and allow the instrument to stand for about 3 minutes (Then, the air sampling inlet has been capped).

?/span>Push the knob at MEASURE position.

?/span>Push “O-ADJ?button. (Then meter’s indication is 0).

?/span>Push the knob at SENSI ADJ position and set the meter’s indication to S value described on the Test Report using the trimmer for SENSI ADJ.

?/span>Pull out the knob and return it to MEASURE position.

?/span>Push “START?button.

 

Maintenance and Calibration

 

?/span>The 1-hour TSP meter would be checked at 3-month intervals and calibrated at 1-year intervals throughout all stages of the air quality baseline monitoring. Calibration records are shown in Appendix EA.

Monitoring Results

2.72.10The monitoring results for 1-hour TSP and 24-hour TSP are summarized in Table 2.43 and 2.45 respectively and the monitoring results are provided in Appendix FB.

 

Table 2.43  ?Summary of 1-hour TSP Monitoring Results During Baseline Reporting Period

 

Average (mg/m3)CA1

Range (mg/m3)

Action Level?(mg/m3)

CA2Limit Level (mg/m3)

CA1Maximum (mg/m3)

84.2104.2

77.2 ?93.3

309.3

500138.9

CA2Minimum (mg/m3)

82.276.8

77.7 ?88.7

319.6

50092.4

Average (mg/m3)

91.3

107.1

 

Table 2.54  ?Summary of 24-hour TSP Monitoring Results During Baseline Reporting Period

 

Average (mg/m3)

Range (mg/m3)

Action Level?(mg/m3)

Limit Level (mg/m3)

CA1

66.1

46.9 ?93.8

166.8

260

CA2

74.8

35.3 ?/del> 122.5

187.0

260

 

CA1

CA2

Maximum (mg/m3)

106.2

138.2

Minimum (mg/m3)

17.2

45.1

Average (mg/m3)

56.6

87.7

Action and Limit Levels

 

2.10                        Air quality monitoring was carried out for both 1-hour TSP and 24-hour TSP at all the monitoring stations in the reporting month. 24-hour TSP monitoring at CA1 (Po Shan Mansions) was temporary suspended from 10 April 2008 due to the complaint received from the Management Office regarding the noise generated from the HVS during operation. The HVS was relocated to an adjacent location closer to the site on 24 April 2008 and the 24-hour TSP monitoring resume on the same day. Thus, no 24-hour TSP monitoring was carried out on 10, 16 and 22 April 2008.

 

2.82.10The air quality monitoring results, in terms of 1-hour TSP and 24-hour TSP, were below the action and limit level as set out in the Air Quality Objective (AQO) at both monitoring locations in the reporting month. The event action plan is annexed in Appendix G.

 

2.10                        Weather information including wind speed and wind direction is annexed in Appendix H. The information was obtained from Hong Kong Observatory Victoria Peak Automatic Weather Station and Central Pier Anemometer Station.

2.10                

2.92.10The baseline monitoring was carried out in January 2008, during which, the weather was mainly fine, with occasions of rainfall events. Major dust sources were from nearby traffic emissions.

 

2.10The Action and Limit levels for air quality impact monitoring were based on the criteria adopted from the EM&A Manual as presented in Table 2.5.

 

Table 2.5    ?Derivation of Action and Limit Levels for Air Quality

Parameter

Action Level

Limit Level

1-hour TSP Level in mg/m3

?/span>For baseline level <384 mg/m3, Action level = (Baseline level*1.3 + Limit level)/2

?/span>For baseline level >384 mg/m3, Action level = Limit level

500

24-hour TSP Level in mg/m3

?/span>For baseline level <200 mg/m3, Action level = (Baseline level*1.3 + Limit level)/2

?/span>For baseline level >200 mg/m3, Action level = Limit level

260

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2.112.10Table 2.6 shows the derived Action and Limit Levels for air quality impact monitoring for the Project.

 

Table 2.6            ?Action and Limit Levels for Air Quality

Parameter

Monitoring Station

Action Level

(mg/m3)

Limit Level

(mg/m3)

1-hour TSP

CA1

309.3

500.0

CA2

319.6

500.0

24-hour TSP

CA1

166.8

260.0

CA2

187.0

260.0

3.8.BASELINE NOISE MONITORING

Monitoring Requirements

3.13.8In accordance with the EM&A Manual, baseline impact noise levels shall should be obtained at 2 noise monitoring stations. Impact noise monitoring was conducted for at least once per week during the construction phase of the Project.from the monitoring stations designated by the adjacent CEDD Project under the requirement of an Environmental Permit (EP-235/2005/A) The Action and Limit level of the noise monitoring is provided in Appendix D..

Monitoring Equipment

3.23.8Integrating Sound Level Meter was employed for noise monitoring.?They were Type 1 sound level meters capable of giving a continuous readout of the noise level readings including equivalent continuous sound pressure level (Leq) and percentile sound pressure level (Lx). They comply with International Electrotechnical Commission Publications 651:1979 (Type 1) and 804:1985 (Type 1).?Portable electronic wind speed indicator capable of measuring wind speed in m/s was employed to check the wind speed.?Table 3.1 details the noise monitoring equipment used.

 

Table 3.1    ?Noise Monitoring Equipment

Equipment

Model

Integrating Sound Level Meter

Rion NL-31Rion NL-15

Calibrator

Rion NC73

Monitoring Locations

3.33.8Two monitoring stations were set up at the proposed locations in accordance with EM&A Manual. Table 3.2 describes details of the two monitoring stations. The monitoring locations are shown in Figure 2.1.

 

Table 3.2    ?Locations of Noise Monitoring Stations

Monitoring Station

Identity / Description

CN1

Block A, Po Shan Mansions

CN2

Block A, Po Shan Mansions

Monitoring Parameters

3.43.8One set of Measurement of 30-mins Leq (daytime) measurement at each monitoring station between 0700 and 1900 on normal weekdays at a frequency of once per week was required to determine the baseline impact noise level. Leq, L10 and L90 would be recorded.

Monitoring Methodology

Monitoring Procedures

?/span>The Sound Level Meter was set on a tripod at a height of 1.2 m above the ground.

?/span>Façade measurements were made at all three monitoring locations.

?/span>The battery condition was checked to ensure the correct functioning of the meter.

?/span>Parameters such as frequency weighting, the time weighting and the measurement time were set as follows:

-         frequency weighting: A

-         time weighting: Fast

-         time measurement: Leq(30 minutes) during non-restricted hours i.e. between 07:00 and 19:00 on normal weekdays

?/span>Prior to and after each noise measurement, the meter was calibrated using a Calibrator for 94 dB at 1000 Hz.?If the difference in the calibration level before and after measurement was more than 1 dB(A), the measurement would be considered invalid and repeat of noise measurement would be required after re-calibration or repair of the equipment.

?/span>The wind speed was frequently checked with a portable wind meter.

?/span>During the monitoring period, the Leq , L10 and L90 were recorded.?In addition, site conditions and noise sources were recorded on a standard record sheet.

?/span>Noise measurement was paused during periods of high intrusive noise (e.g. dog barking, helicopter noise) if possible. Observations were recorded when intrusive noise was unavoidable.

?/span>Noise monitoring was cancelled in the presence of fog, rain, wind with a steady speed exceeding 5 m/s, or wind with gusts exceeding 10 m/s.

Maintenance and Calibration

?/span>The microphone head of the sound level meter and calibrator is cleaned with soft cloth at quarterly intervals.

?/span>The meter should be checked and calibrated at yearly intervals.

?/span>Calibration details for the sound level meter and calibrator are provided in Appendix EA.

Monitoring Results

3.53.8The monitoring results for noise are summarized in Table 3.3 and the monitoring data is provided in Appendix IC.

 

Table 3.3    ?Summary of Noise Monitoring Results During Baseline in the Reporting Period

 

Average, dB(A), Leq (30 mins)

Range, dB(A), Leq (30 mins)

Limit Level, dB(A), Leq (30 mins)

CN1

61.7

59.4 ?64.5

75.0

CN2

60.5

58.2 ?64.0

75.0

CN2

 

78.4

 

60.5

 

67.6

 

 

3.6At both monitoring locations, CN1 and CN2, the average baseline results (daytime) are within the criteria of 75 dB(A), yet the average baseline result at CN1 was close to the criteria. There were a few measured baseline noise results exceeded the criteria at CN1.

3.8                        There was no noise complaint received in the reporting month, hence, no action level exceedance was recorded. At both monitoring locations, CN1 and CN2, all the monitoring results (daytime) were below the limit level of 75 dB(A).

 

3.8                        All the monitoring results lied within the range of the predicted noise levels in the EIA report.

3.7 

3.73.8Major noise sources during the noise monitoring included the construction activities from the Project and another project under the same contract (concurrent project) carried out in the vicinity and nearby traffic noise.According to the EIA report, there was another project under the same contract (concurrent project) carried out in the vicinity. Although it is believe that there would be a cumulative impact at the sensitive receivers, the predicted cumulative construction noise levels at the sensitive receivers would comply with the criteria with the EIA recommended mitigation measures in place.

Action and Limit Levels

 

3.8The Action and Limit Levels (AL levels) of noise monitoring have been set in accordance with the derivation criteria specified in the EM&A Manual. This is shown in Table 3.4 below.

 

Table 3.4    ?Criteria for Action and Limit Levels for Construction Noise

Time Period

Action Level

Limit Level

0700 ?1900 hours on normal weekdays

When one documented complaint is received from any one of the sensitive receivers

75 dB(A)?

0700 ?2300 hours on public holidays including Sundays and

1900 ?2300 hours on all days

60/65/70 dB(A) *

2300 ?0700 hours on all days

45/50/55dB(A) *

* ?/span>Remarks: To be selected based on the Area Sensitivity Rating of A/B/C, and the conditions of the applicable CNP(s) must be followed.

 

3.93.8Both Area Sensitivity Ratings of the noise sensitive receivers (NSRs), CN1 and CN2, of the Project are considered as “A? The Limit Levels for impact noise monitoring are derived and presented in Table 3.5.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Table 3.5    ?Action and Limit Levels for Construction Noise of the Project

Time Period

Action Level

Limit Level

0700 ?1900 hours on normal weekdays

When one documented complaint is received from any one of the sensitive receivers

75 dB(A)?

0700 ?2300 hours on public holidays including Sundays and

1900 ?2300 hours on all days

60 dB(A)

2300 ?0700 hours on all days

45 dB(A)

 

4.8.VEGETATION SURVEYMONITORING

Monitoring Requirement

4.14.10As required under Environmental Permit No. EP-235/2005/B, the Permit Holder is required to carry out monitoring of the trees, shrubs and herbs plant species of conservation interest to check on the health and condition of the plants twice a month during the construction period of the Project.

 

4.10               submit a detailed vegetation survey report on the Part II Project area prior to the commencement of construction of the Project.

 

4.24.10It is required to undertake the ecological tasks to fulfill the requirements of the Environmental Permit (EP).?As required by Conditions 2.11 and 3.5 of the EP, a suitably qualified ecologist with 7 or more years of relevant experience shall be employed to conduct the ecological monitoring.

 

4.10            a detailed vegetation survey prior to the commencement of construction in order to identify and label the affected plant species of conservation interest, including but not limited to Small Persimmon, Common Tutcheria, Bird-nest Fern and Chinese Pholidota.

Monitoring Location

4.34.10The ecological monitoring was carried out for plant individuals of conservation interest identified within the proposed works area.

 

Monitoring Methodology

4.10                        Soil nailing works were in progress during the monitoring visits.?

 

4.10                        A vegetation of conservation V018 located during the last monitoring visit was found to be in very poor condition.?

 

4.10                        Part of the plant species of conservation interest were not properly fenced off or tagged, particularly in works area above Row AD.?The Contractor was advised to fence off and label the vegetation properly with a clear sign notable to all the construction workers and restrict any unauthorized access to the area.

 

4.10                        Some vegetation and plant species of conservation interest located near soil nailing work areas were densely covered with soil and dust.

 

4.10                        Hardened grout was found in the natural habitat near the Project area.?To prevent the plant from being affected by grout leakage and muddy site run-off, the Contractor was reminded to remove any grout from the natural habitat as soon as possible and add sand bags around the hardened grout.   

4.44.10The ecological monitoring was conducted twice in the reporting month on 20 3rd and 2717th ?/span>MayJune 2008 by Ms. Gigi C C Lam, who had over 7 years of relevant ecological experience.

4.10             

4.54.10The plants of conservation interest, which were tagged during the baseline survey, were checked during each monitoring.

4.10             

4.10            Monitoring Results

4.64.10Soil nailing scaffolding works were in progress in the area between Row A and R during the monitoring visits.?A total of 13 plant species of conservation interest (i.e. V001 to V013) were identified within the above works area during an earlier Detailed Vegetation Survey conducted under this Project.?Plastic fencings supported by strong poles were recommended in the previous monitoring visits conducted in April 2008 to demarcate plant locations clearly to prevent tipping and entry of personnel in order to avoid damage to the plants.?Fencings had been set up in the area and tThe tagged vegetation was found to be ?/span>in good condition during the monitoring visits in May July 2008.

4.10                         

4.74.10The bark of two individuals of vegetation located adjacent to the temporary conveyor belt was found to be slightly damaged, it was recommended that hessian sacking should be wrapped around the trunk of vegetation to prevent damage during the transportation of construction materials.

4.10                        Construction materials such as planks, sand bags, metal rods were found to be placed over or near the lower trunks of some trees in Row C, L, O and R.?It was recommended that these materials should be kept in proper place to avoid damage to vegetation within works area.?

4.10                         

4.10                        Concrete was found to be spilled over from the soil nailing works zones onto nearby areas.?It was recommended that the concrete should be removed from the soil surface.?The Contractor advised that the concrete will be removed and measures will be implemented to avoid any further spillage.

4.10                         

4.10                        The leaves, branches and trunk of a tree (Machilus sp.) located in Row O was found to be covered with sand and mud probably generated from nearby soil nailing works.?

4.10                         

4.10                        Two trees, Celtis sinensis and Machilus sp., located near the conveyor belt and above Row Q were found to be dead and in very poor condition respectively.?A dead tree (tree tag number T238) was collapsed within works area.?It was recommended that all dead trees found within the construction site should be recorded and reported to relevant departments without delay. ?/span>

4.10                         

4.10                        Two main roots of a big tree (Acacia confusa of tree tag number T247) were cut due to the construction of soil nail number I6 (Photo 1 refers).

4.10                         

4.10                        The trunk of a tree (tree tag number T344) located next to a soil nailing area in Row O was covered with concrete.

8.             

8.            Monitoring Location

8.            The ecological monitoring was carried out for plant individuals of conservation interest identified within the proposed works area.

8.             

8.            The proposed Project is located within the northern boundary of the existing Pok Fu Lam Country Park and Special Area.?A detailed map in Figure 4.1 shows the location of the Project (Part II), where the detailed vegetation survey was to be conducted.

8.            Monitoring Methodology

8.            In accordance with Condition 2.11 of the EP, a detailed vegetation surveyThe ecological monitoring was conducted prior to twice in the reporting month on 8 and 29 April 2008 the commencement of construction by Ms. Gigi C C Lam, who had over 7 years of relevant ecological experience.

8.             

8.            The plants of conservation interest, which were tagged during the baseline survey, were checked during each monitoring.

8.             

8.            All potentially affected individuals of floral species of conservation concern identified on site were recorded, where site condition allowed.?All identified plants were tagged and assigned with a number plate.

8.             

8.            To facilitate subsequent construction phase vegetation monitoring, photographic record of all the identified plants were taken.?The species name, form, rarity in Hong Kong and protection status were recorded in a plant schedule.

8.            Monitoring Results

8.            Plant Species of Conservation Importance

8.             

8.            Detailed vegetation surveys were conducted from November 2007 to January 2008 to identify and map out the extent of plant species of conservation importance.

8.             

8.            Each plant individual of conservation importance that would be potentially affected by the slope works was identified, given a coordinate and tagged with a number plate (V001 to V129). V066 was not used. V073, V089, V115 and V130 were not tagged and/or photographed onsite due to difficulty in accessibility.?For group of individuals of the same species that are in close proximity with each other, they were assigned with one number plate only. ?/span>The name, form, rarity in Hong Kong and status of protection were also assessed and shown in a Plant Schedule (Appendix D).?Each plant individual was photographed for record as shown in Appendix E.?

8.             

8.            The Project area is a vegetated slope and is largely covered by tall trees with understorey of shrubs beneath the tree canopy.?A few areas of bare ground and rock surface were exposed.? During the recent detailed surveys, 12 species of over 129 individuals of species of conservation importance were recorded within and in close proximity to the boundary of the Project area.?A summary of the results recorded is shown in Table 4.1.

8.             

8.     Table 4.1     Vegetation Species of Conservation Importance within and in Close Proximity to the Boundary of the Part II Project Area

8.            LANDSCAPE AND VISUAL baseline review

Review RequirementMonitoring Requirement

During the construction phase of the Project, landscape and visual monitoring should be carried out bi-weekly by a Registered Landscape Architect (RLA) to check if the design, implementation and maintenance of the landscape and visual mitigation measures are fully realized. A detailed report is annexed in Appendix J.

8.            Summary of Inspection ?2nd July 2008

8.             

8.            Matters Arising from Previous Inspections

8.             

8.            The Contractor had removed all metal pipes / steel bars previously stockpiled / stacked against the existing tree trunks at various locations on site, except for one location.? The Contractor was reminded to urgently remove it as soon as possible.

8.             

8.            It was still noted that no tree protection with wooden slats was made for trees enclosed within the drilling platforms.?The Contractor was reminded to provide adequate tree protection works near the trees in order to prevent accidentally damaging the trees.

8.             

8.            Protection of Existing Trees

8.             

8.            Construction equipments were observed being placed against the tree trunks of existing trees at several locations on site.?The Contractor was requested to clear the equipment and not to place it against trees in future in order to prevent damage to the trees.

8.             

8.            Also, soil bags were observed placed on slopes and rested at the base of the tree trunks.?The Contractor was requested to clear to soil bags away from the base of the tree as soon as possible.

8.             

8.            Construction waste pile was observed on the slope.? The Contractor was requested to clear it away as soon as possible. ?/span>

8.             

8.            Recommendations

8.             

8.            The Contractor was recommended to provide more protection to existing trees which are enclosed within the drilling platforms in order to prevent the tree from being damaged.

8.             

8.            The Contractor was recommended to keep all construction materials and equipments away from existing trees and not to place them against the trees in future.

8.             

8.            Summary of Inspection ?15th July 2008

8.             

8.            Matters Arising from Previous Inspections

8.             

8.            The Contractor had removed all metal pipes previously stockpiled / stacked against the existing tree trunks on site.

8.             

8.            The Contractor had cleared the construction equipments previously observed placed against the tree trunks of existing trees.

8.             

8.            Clearance of soil bags previously observed being placed on slopes and rested at the base of the tree trunks was still outstanding.?The Contractor was reminded to clear it away as soon as possible.

8.             

8.            Clearance of the construction waste pile previously observed on the slope was still outstanding.?The Contractor was reminded to clear it away as soon as possible.

8.             

8.            Protection of Existing Trees

8.             

8.            Scaffolding metal pipes were found with some being rested on and others being rested against existing trees.?The Contractor was requested to remove the pipes away from the trees as soon as possible.

8.             

8.            Recommendations

8.             

8.            The Contractor was recommended to provide more protection to existing trees which are enclosed within the drilling platforms in order to prevent the tree from being damaged.

8.             

8.            The Contractor was recommended to keep all construction materials and equipments away from existing trees and not to place them against the trees in future.

8.             

8.            The Contractor was reminded to clear the construction waste pile as found on the slope and keep the site in a tidy condition.

8.             

8.            Summary of Inspection ?29th July 2008

8.             

8.            Matters Arising from Previous Inspections

8.             

8.            The Contractor had cleared away the construction waste pile previously observed on the slope.

8.             

8.            The Contractor had cleared the scaffolding metal pipes away from existing trees.

8.             

8.            Clearance of soil bags previously observed being placed on slopes and rested at the base of the tree trunks was still outstanding.? The Contractor was again reminded to clear it away as soon as possible.

8.             

8.            Protection of Existing Trees

8.             

8.            Existing tree T238 was found dead with rotten tree trunk at the base.? The Contractor was requested to remove the tree for safety as soon as possible.

8.             

8.            It was observed that the Contractor had cut several large roots (up to 100mm diameter) of the existing large tree T247 while carried out the excavation for the soil nail head.?The Contractor was warned that the practice was unacceptable and large tree root shall not be cut without prior inspection and agreement with the Engineer.?The Contractor was requested to apply protective sealant to prevent the roots from rotting.

8.             

8.            It was again observed that the Contractor had tied overhead plastic sheeting to existing tree trunks.?The Contractor was requested to remove the ties to prevent damage to the trees.

8.             

8.            It was observed that the soil nail drilling had allowed the extracted materials fines being sprayed onto several tree trunks (i.e. T342).?The Contractor was requested to clean up the tree trunks and to provide protection to the tree trunks in future.

8.             

8.            Recommendations

8.             

8.            The Contractor was recommended to keep all soil bags away from existing trees and not to place them against the trees in future.

8.             

8.            The Contractor was recommended to apply root protective sealant to the wounded roots.?The Contractor was recommended to seek the Engineer’s agreement for excavation works near existing tree roots in order to minimize damage to the tree root system.?If root pruning is required, prior approval from Engineer is required.

8.             

8.            The Contractor was recommended to clean the material fines off the tree trunks and to provide tree protection in future when carried out drilling works.

8.             

8.             

8.             

8.            1 6AugustSummary of the Landscape and Visual Monitoring on 8 April 2008

8.            Site Clearance and Soil Nail Works

8.             

8.            Clearance of understorey shrubs / groundcovers and erection of scaffolding was observed carried out mainly in works area E.

8.             

8.            The proposed soil nail locations at the lower portion of works area E are generally observed not in conflict with existing trees.

8.            As required by Clause 3.2 of the EM&A Manual, a Registered Landscape Architect (RLA) shall be responsible for conducting the baseline review and monitoring the implementation of landscape and visual mitigation measures during construction phase in accordance with the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Report.

8.             

8.            Protection of Existing Trees

8.             

8.            Tree protection works was generally observed carried out for existing trees where there are scaffolding and soil nail works carried out in the vicinity.

8.             

8.            It was observed that the bark of existing tree T254 was damaged by the works as no tree protection was provided.?The Contractor was requested to carry out tree protection works for the tree as soon as possible.

8.             

8.            Also, it was observed that the tree bark of one existing was damaged by the erection of the temporary conveyor / pulley system on the slope just immediately outside of the site boundary of Landslide Preventive Works.?The Engineer was requested to clarify if it is considered part of the soil nail works.

8.             

8.            Recommendations

8.             

8.            The Contractor was reminded to provide tree protection to existing trees, especially where there are works to be carried out in the immediate vicinity.

5.28.A landscape and visual baseline review of the baseline conditions set out in the EIA Report was undertaken before the commencement of the construction works. The purpose of the review is:

8.             

Ÿ8.to check the status of the landscape resources within, and immediately adjacent to, the construction sites and works areas

Ÿ8.to determine whether any change has occurred to the status of the landscape resources since the EIA report

Ÿ8.to determine whether amendments in the design of the landscape and visual mitigation measures are required for those changes, and

Ÿ8.to recommend any necessary amendments to the design of the landscape and visual mitigation measures.

8.            Summary of the Landscape and Visual Monitoring on 22 April 2008

8.            Matters Arising from Previous Inspections

8.             

8.            As previously requested, the Contractor had carried out tree protections for the damaged trees.

8.             

8.            Site Clearance and Soil Nail Works

8.             

8.            Clearance of understorey shrubs / groundcovers and erection of scaffolding was observed continued to be carried out mainly in works area E.

8.             

8.            Protection of Existing Trees

8.             

8.            It was observed that an existing dead tree was partially uprooted and fallen over.?The Contractor was requested to clear the dead tree for safety consideration.

8.             

8.            Recommendations

8.             

8.            The Contractor was recommended to clear the fallen dead tree for safety consideration.

8.            Baseline Review Methodology

8.            In accordance with Clause 3.2 of the EM&A Manual, this Landscape and Visual Baseline Review was conducted by a RLA, Mr. T H Tran.

8.             

8.            Next Landscape and Visual Audit Schedule

8.            The landscape and visual audits in the next reporting month (i.e. May 2008) was tentatively scheduled to 6 and 20 May 2008.

8.             

5.48.Baseline monitoring for landscape and visual impact is defined and structured in reference to the Landscape and Visual Assessment in the EIA for the Works.

8.             

5.48.In essence the baseline monitoring comprises a checking and updating of the relevant information within the following documents already prepared for the Works:

8.             

Ÿ8.EIA Report EIA-135/2007 prepared by Maunsell Consultants Asia Ltd. for the Landslide Preventive Works at Po Shan and approved with conditions on 8th November 2007, Mid-levels (hereafter referred to as the “EIA Report? and in particular the LVIA set out in Chapter 4 thereof;

8.             

Ÿ8.Contract No. CE 28/2004 (GE), Landslide Preventive Works at Po Shan, Mid-levels - Design and Construction (Natural Terrain Risk Mitigation Works).

8.             

5.68.The Baseline monitoring was undertaken by a walk-over survey of the study area (which corresponding to the study area in the EIA Report) to ascertain if the original baseline survey information presented in the EIA Report is still valid with regard to the following:

8.             

Ÿ8.Landscape Resources - the extent, numbers and quality of landscape resources (LRs) shall be confirmed/updated.? Any LRs which have increased or decreased in extent or sensitivity shall be noted and recorded.

8.             

Ÿ8.Landscape Character - the character and extent of landscape character areas (LCAs) and sensitivity of landscape character shall be confirmed/updated and any changes to landscape character; extent of LCAs or sensitivity of the landscape shall be noted and recorded.

8.             

Ÿ8.Visual Sensitive Receivers ? the visually sensitive receivers (VSRs) as identified in the EIA Report shall be confirmed/updated.?Any changes to the VSRs shall be noted and recorded.

8.             

8.             

8.             

8.            Baseline Review Results

8.            Landscape Resources

8.             

5.78.Landscape resources (LRs) are identified and mapped in Figure 5.1. Photo views illustrating the landscape resources are shown in Figure 5.2. This has been achieved by site visit and desk-top study of topographical maps, information databases and photographs, with particular reference to the EIA Report. LRs are listed and a description of each LR is given below:

8.             

5.88.LR1 ?Woodland (including tall scrub): Woodland areas are located within the Pok Fu Lam Country Park / Green belt above the Po Shan Road. These woodlands, together with the grassland / shrub areas create a lush green backdrop to the whole Mid-levels district and are an important visual amenity. Much of the woodland in the lower Green Belt areas above the Po Shan Road are interspersed with low-density residential development and their associated slope stabilisation works. Typical tree species identified include Acacia confusa, Celtis sinensis, Mallotus paniculatus, Litsea glutinosa, Sterculia lanceolata, Ficus variegata, Macaranga tanarius and Schefflera octophylla. These woodlands contribute significantly to the country park character within the Mid-levels district. The landscape sensitivity to change of this LR is judged to be high.

8.             

5.98.LR2 ?Pocket Open Space: There are several public open spaces within the study area, which are located 1) in the Kotewall Road next to the Kotewall Fire station, and 2) in the Conduct Road Children’s Playground next to Scenic Garden. All are formed by hard paved areas with small planters for amenity trees. Typical tree species includes Aleurites moluccana, Bombax malabaricum, Cinnamomum camphora, Garcinia spicata, Delonix regia. The landscape sensitivity to change of this LR is judged to be medium.

8.             

5.108.LR3 ?Manmade Slope: There are numerous manmade slopes within the study area, which are located along the Po Shan Road on the southern side of Po Shan Mansions and Piccadilly Mansion. The manmade slope close to Po Shan Mansions has both hard and soft cover, whereas the manmade slope close to Piccadilly Mansion is covered with sprayed concrete. Semi-natural vegetation and some isolated trees in tree rings in sprayed concrete on face were identified. Typical tree species include Acacia confuse, Mallotus paniculatus, Schefflera octophylla, Sapium discolour. The landscape sensitivity to change of this LR is judged to be low.

8.             

5.118.LR4 ?Residential Development: High-end residential development consisting of individual houses and low-rise to high-rise residential blocks. Mid-levels residential development in this area as built in 1970s to 1980s is typified by low density and plot ratio development. Those developments within the landscape study area include Hatton Place, Piccadilly Mansion, Hamilton Court, Po Shan Mansions along Po Shan Road and Skyline Mansion, Skyview Cliff and Mirror Marina located along Conduit Road. There is also ongoing development at No. 55 Conduit Road. The Stone House located at No. 15 Kotewall Road is classified as a Grade III Historical building and structure, which also contribute to the mid-levels residential development. Typical tree species include Bauhinia blakeana, Ficus heteropleura, Juniperus chinensis, Thuja orientalis and Caryota ochlandra. This is in sharp contrast to the high-rise, modern and luxury residential towers along Robinson Road and Bonham Road. The landscape sensitivity to change of this LR is judged to be medium.

8.             

5.128.LR5 ?Roadside Planting along Kotewall Road, Hatton road and Po Shan Road: Mature roadside planting is located along Conduit Road, Kotewall Road and Po Shan Road. Typical tree species include Aleurites moluccana, Cinnamomum camphora, Livistona chinensis, Bombax malabaricum, Ficus microcarpa and Ficus elastica. The combination of mature vegetation and topography acts as a transition to the Pok Fu Lam Country Park and Lung Fu Shan Country Park. The mature roadside tree planting also contributes significantly to the Mid-levels lowrise residential character of this area. The landscape sensitivity to change of this LR is judged to be high.

8.            Landscape Character

5.138.The study area consists of two distinct landscape character areas (LCAs). These are described below and indicated in Figure 5.3. Photo views illustrating the LCAs are shown in Figure 5.4.

8.             

5.148.LCA 1 ?Greenbelt / Country Park Character Area: The greenbelt / country park area are characterised by natural slopes primarily vegetated with woodland species. The country park walking trail linking Lung Fu Shan Country Park, High West and Pok Fu Lam Country Park, which is part of the Peak Trail, is integrated with the natural quality of this LCA. This district also famous for native species including the Hong Kong Eagle’s Claw, Hong Kong Camellia, Liverworts and Mosses. This LCA forms a scenic backdrop surrounding the Pok Fu Lam and is an important visual resource. The landscape sensitivity to change of this LCA is judged to be high.

8.             

5.158.LCA 2 ?Mid-levels Residential Character Area: This character area is characterized by low density, luxury residential developments with low vehicular traffic flow and mature roadside tree planting along Po Shan Road, Hatton Road, and Kotewall Road. These high-end residential developments are located along Po Shan Road, Hatton Road and Kotewall Road. They include Hatton Place, Piccadilly Mansion, Po Shan Mansions, No. 23 Po Shan Road, No. 24 Po Shan Road, Wisdom Court, Hatton House and the University Lodge. The landscape sensitivity to change of this area is judged to be high.

8.            Visually Sensitive Receivers

5.168.The zone of visual influence (ZVI) does not vary between construction and operation phases. The ZVI for both phases is indicated in Figure 5.5. Due to the steep area, the ZVI is quite extensive and is generally defined by the following:

8.             

?/font>8.In the South by the ridgeline of High West;

?/font>8.In the North by the high rise institutional complex;

?/font>8.In the East by the high rise residential development along Babington path and Kotewall Road;

?/font>8.In the West by the ridgeline of Lung Fu Shan.

8.             

5.178.The visually sensitive receivers (VSRs) identified in the EIA Report are listed below. For clarity, photos of the VSRs taken from the EIA Report are reproduced in Figure 5.6.

8.             

?/font>8.R1A:       ?Po Shan Mansions

?/font>8.R1B:        Piccadilly Mansion

?/font>8.R1C:              ?No.23 Po Shan Road

?/font>8.R1D:        Hatton Place, Hatton House, Wisdom Court

?/font>8.R1E:       ?Skyline Mansion, Skyview Cliff, Medallion Heights, Haddon Court

?/font>8.R1F:       ?University Heights, Emerald Gardens, Greenview Gardens, Kingsford Heights

?/font>8.R2:         ?No. 21, 24, 30 Po Shan Road and No. 41B and 43A Conduit Road

?/font>8.R3:         ?Alpine Court, Belmont Court, Scenic Garden, Villa Veneto, Richmond Court, Imperial
             Court, Realty Gardens, Peace Court, Dragonview Court, Kings Garden, Wah Sen Court,                       ?Kiu Sen Court, 1A Robinson Road

?/font>8.GIC1:     ?Users of the University of Hong Kong

?/font>8.O1:         ?Walkers along Hatton Road Morning Trail

?/font>8.T1:            Travellers on Po Shan Road

8.             

5.188.Photos of key views illustrated in the EIA Report have been revisited and are shown in Figures 5.7 and 5.8. The locations of the viewpoints are indicated on Figure 5.5.

8.             

5.198.There has been no change in the ZVI or VSRs as originally identified, other than the addition of the Future Residents of No.55 Conduit Road to VSR R1E shown on Figure 5.6.

8.            ENVIRONMENTAL SITE INSPECTION AND AUDIT

 

Site Inspection

6.29                        Site Inspections were carried out on a weekly basis to monitor the implementation of proper environmental pollution control and mitigation measures for the Project. In the reporting month, 5 site inspections were carried out on 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29 April 2008. The detail findings of the landscape and visual audits in the reporting month are presented separately in Section 5. The environmental site inspection summaries are attached in Appendix K. Particular observations are described below.

 

Air Quality

6.29                         

6.29                        ?/span>No adverse observation was identified in the reporting month.

6.29                         

?/span>Noise

 

6.29                        No adverse observation was identified in the reporting month.

 

Water Quality

 

6.29                        No adverse observation was identified in the reporting month.

 

Chemical and Waste Management

 

Oil stain was found under a drill rig at Row K. The Contractor was reminded to clear the oil stain and provide a drip tray.

 

A few chemical containers at Row M were placed on ground without drip tray. The Contractor was reminded to provide drip tray to all chemicals on site.

 

One oil container at Row D was placed on ground without a drip tray. The Contractor was advised to provide drip tray to all chemicals on site.

 

Stockpile of C&D waste was found at Row E. The Contractor was reminded to clear the C&D waste off-site regularly.

 

Ecology

6.29                        A plant species of conservation interest (V018) was in very poor condition

 

6.29                        Some vegetation of conservation interest were not properly fenced off and not tagged.

 

6.29                        Vegetation and plant species of conservation interest located near soil nailing work areas were densely covered with soil and dust.

 

6.29                        Hardened grout was found in the natural habitat near the Project area.?

 

CV001 to V013 were found to be in good condition during the monitoring visits, nevertheless, plastic fencings supported by strong poles were recommended to demarcate plant locations clearly to prevent tipping and entry of personnel in order to avoid damage to the plants.onstruction materials placed near tree trunks and spillage of concrete near soil nailing areas were observed.?Some of the plants were not properly protected during soil nailing works and serious damages to root systems were recorded.?One recently dead tree was found within the works area.

 

6.29               Landscape and Visual

 

6.29                        The Contractor was advised that retained trees should be properly protected before installation of scaffolding at PT3. Immediate action had been undertaken by the Contractor and status / condition was to be followed up. / sand bags

 

5.23                        The Contractor was recommended to apply root protective sealant to the wounded roots.?The Contractor was recommended to seek the Engineer’s agreement for excavation works near existing tree roots in order to minimize damage to the tree root system.?If root pruning is required, prior approval from Engineer is required.

 

5.23                        The Contractor was recommended to clean the material fines off the tree trunks and to provide tree protection in future when carried out drilling works.

 

Assessment of Environmental Monitoring Results

6.29                        All monitoring results were audited against the Action / Limit levels and any exceedance would be validated and issued when necessary.

 

6.29                        The monitoring results in the reporting period were comparable with the EIA predictions. Detailed discussions are given in Section 2 and 3.

 

Advice on the Solid and Liquid Waste Management Status

6.29                        The Contractor is registered as a chemical waste producer for this Project. The Chemical Waste Storage Area located at the Contractor’s site office area was properly maintained in the reporting month.

 

6.29                        4.1815.93No waste disposal was made in the reporting month. Also 20kg of chemical waste was collected by licenced waste collector in the reporting month. Most of the C&D waste generated was reused on site.

Environmental Licenses and Permits

The environmental licenses and permits for this Project and valid in the reporting month is summarized in Table 6.1.

 

Table 6.1    ?Summary of Environmental Licensing and Permit Status

Description

Permit No.

Valid Period

Remarks

From

To

Environmental Permit

EP-235/2005/B

23/11/07

--

-Installation of about 700 nos. of soil nails and about 60 nos. of raking drains in the natural terrain;

-Rock slope stabilisation works at upper portion of the natural terrain; and

-Other associated works.

Registration as a Chemical Waste Producer

5213-141-C3250-02

13/12/06

--

Spent lubricating oil and mineral oil

Effluent Discharge License

EP880/W10/XX0261

07/11/06

31/12/11

--

Notification of Constriction Work under APCO (Construction Dust)

001012125

18/07/06

17/07/08

--

Implementation Status of Environmental Mitigation Measures

6.29                        In response to the site audit findings, the Contractor carried out corrective actions.

 

6.29                        A summary of the Implementation Schedule of Mitigation Measures (EMIS) is presented in Appendix C. Most of the necessary mitigation measures were implemented properly.

Summary of Exceedances of the Environmental Quality Performance Limit

6.29                        All 1-hour TSP, 24-hour TSP and noise monitoring results complied with the Action / Limit levels.

 

6.29                        No exceedance was recorded in the reporting month.

Summary of Complaints, Notification of Summons and Successful Prosecutions

6.29                        The Environmental Complaint Handling Procedure is annexed in Figure 6.1.

 

6.29                        EPD received an enquiry regarding the dust emission on hillside behind Po Shan Mansions and conveyed their concerns to ER and Contractor on 22 May 2009. Improved mitigation measures to prevent excessive dust emission, such as enhancement of enclosures and watering facilities, during soil nail drilling were taken by the Contractor. EPD had inspected the site on 26 May 2009 and had no adverse comment on the dust control measures currently carried out on site.

 

 

6.29                        No environmental complaint, notification of summons and successful prosecutions was received in the reporting month.

 

 

8.            FUTURE KEY ISSUES

Construction Programme for the Coming Months

7.5                        The construction programme for the Project is provided in Appendix B.

 

7.5                        The major construction works in May 2008 are:

-            Permanent Nails installation at Portion A1

-            Test Nails (5 nos.) for Pull Out Test at Portion B2

-            Site Clearance for soil nails setting out to Portion A2 (i.e. from Row Q to Row AE)

Permanent Nails installation at Portion B2

Key Issues for Coming Month

7.5                        Key issues to be considered in the coming month included:

-            Properly store and label oils and chemicals on siteSufficient dust suppression measuresmaintained;

-            Collection of construction waste should be carried out regularly;

-            Site runoff should be properly collected and treated prior to discharge;

-            Construction activities should avoid causing damage to the trees and to plants species of conservation interest;

-            Quieter powered mechanical equipment should be used.

 

7.5                        The following mitigation measures are required:

 

Air Quality Impact

-            Regular watering should be used during soil nailing;

-            Dusty material stockpiled should be completely covered;

-            Dusty activities should be re-scheduled if high-wind conditions encountered;

-            Open burning should be strictly prohibited;

-            All dusty vehicle loads transporting to, from and between site locations should be covered with tarpaulin;

-            Vehicle wheel and body washing facilities should be used at all exit points of the site;

-            Wind shield, dust extraction units or water spraying should be used at the loading points.

 

Construction Noise Impact

-            Quieter powered mechanical equipment should be used;

-            Insulating fabric should be used for drill rigs during drilling process;

-            Noise generating construction works should be carried out during daytime only;

-            Noise barriers or other measures should be used to minimize disturbance to the bat roost;

-            Plant on site should be properly maintained and serviced regularly;

-            Mobile plants should be sited as far from NSRs as possible;

-            Machines and plant in intermittent use should be throttled down;

-            Strong noise emitting plants, wherever possible, should be oriented so that noise is directed away from the nearby NSRs;

-            Material stockpiles, wherever possible, should be effectively utilized to screen noise from construction activities;

-            Movable noise barrier with surface mass in excess of 7kg/m2 should be used for PME wherever possible;

-            Noise insulating fabric should be adopted for drill rig operating in Works Area E.

 

Water Quality Impact

-            Prevent runoff water from entering the nearby water-bodies;

-            Silt traps and oil / grease separators should be regularly cleaned and maintained;

-            Outlet pipe extending above the slope surface should be installed;

-            Air should be used as the flushing medium of the drilling equipment;

-            Earth bunds or sand bag barriers should be provided on-site to direct storm water to silt removal facilities;

-            Exposed slope / soil surface and opened stockpile of more than 50m3 should be covered with tarpaulin;

-            Oils and fuels should be used and stored in designated area.

 

 

Chemical and Waste Management

-            Debris and rubbish on-site should be collected, handled and disposed of properly;

-            Waste skips should be provided to collect general refuse and construction wastes;

-            Soil contamination with fuel leaked from construction plants should be removed off-site;

-            Sufficient waste disposal points with regular collection should be provided;

-            Appropriate measures should be provided to minimize windblown litter and dust during transportation of waste;

-            Different containers should be used to segregate and store different types of waste;

-            Encourage collection of aluminum cans, PET bottles and paper by providing separate bins;

-            Unused chemicals should be recycles wherever possible;

-            Proper storage and site practices should be adopted to minimize the potential for damage and contamination of construction materials;

-            Oils and fuels should be stored in designated area;

-            Plan and stock construction materials carefully to minimize waste generation.

 

Ecological Impact

-            Soil nail installation should avoid / minimize damage of root system to the existing plants;

-            Fences should be erected along the boundary of the works area

-            Disturbance to the natural woodland and shrubland habitats should be minimized by preventing tipping, vehicle movements and encroachment of personnel onto the adjacent area;

-            Permanent casing should be provided to the drillhole of soil nail;

-            Placement of equipment or stockpile should be located in designated areas to minimize disturbance to natural or moderate-high ecological value habitats;

-            Construction activities should be restricted to works areas;

-            Disturbance to existing vegetation should be minimized wherever possible.

 

Landscape and Visual Impact

-            Designation of “no-intrusion zones?and record any trespass and damage to existing vegetation;

-            Soil nails on site should avoid tree trunks and tree roots;

-            Dust and erosion control should be provided for exposed soil;

-            For tree planting operations, method statement should be checked against specification requirements;

-            All retained trees within the working boundary should be checked regularly;

-            Control over appearance of hoarding, construction plants / machines;

-            Security floodlights should be carefully selected to avoid light pollution.

Monitoring Schedule for the Coming Months

7.5                        The tentative schedule for environmental monitoring in May 2008 is provided in Appendix L.

8.            CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

 

Conclusions

8.8                        The construction phase of the project commenced in April 2008.

 

8.8                        1-hour TSP and 24-hour TSP monitoring was carried out in the reporting month. All monitoring results complied with the action / limit level. No exceedance was recorded.

 

8.8                        All impact daytime noise monitoring results complied with the limit level in the reporting month.

 

8.8                        Environmental site inspections were carried out 5 times in April 2008. Recommendations on remedial actions were given to the Contractor for the deficiencies identified during the site audit.

 

Two landscape and visual audits were carried out in the reporting month. keep all C&D materials / equipments / sand bags away from the trees. The Contractor was also recommended to apply root protective sealant to the wounded root and the Engineer’s agreement should be sought for excavation works near existing tree roots in order to minimize damage to the tree root system.?If root pruning is required, prior approval from Engineer is required.

One tree was found damaged and proper protection to the tree barks was recommended.

 

The Contractor was reminded to properly tag all the vegetation of conservation interest and aConstruction materials placed near tree trunks and spillage of concrete near soil nailing areas were observed.?Some of the plants were not properly protected during soil nailing works and serious damages to root systems were recorded.?One recently dead tree was found within the works area.V001 to V013 were found to be in good condition during the monitoring visits, nevertheless, plastic fencings supported by strong poles were recommended to demarcate plant locations clearly to prevent tipping and entry of personnel in order to avoid damage to the plants.

 

8.8                        While one enquiry regarding dust emission was received, Nno environmental complaint, notification of summons and prosecution was received in the reporting month.

6.18.8Baseline air quality monitoring was carried out between 14 and 31 January 2008 at 2 monitoring locations. Action / limit levels for air quality at each location were derived from the baseline monitoring results. The weather during the baseline monitoring period was generally fine with occasions of rainfalls.

 

6.28.8Baseline noise levels were obtained from the impact noise monitoring programme from the adjacent construction works. The Action level of construction noise is based on documented complaints received, while the Limit Level is the level at a specific limit according to EIAO-TM.

 

6.38.8For the vegetation survey, a total of 12 species of 129 individuals of floral species of conservation importance were identified and tagged during the detailed vegetation survey.?Besides the mitigation measures recommended in the Project EM&A Manual, works should aim to avoid and minimise any damage caused to the existing trees and vegetation.

 

6.48.8The landscape and visual baseline review was conducted in November 2007. Based on the walk-over survey, it is considered that the baseline landscape resources, landscape character areas and visually sensitive receivers originally identified with the EIA study area are generally unchanged and remain valid. The addition to VSR R1E of the Future Residents of No. 55 Conduit Road will not substantially affect the visual baseline, as views of the site area are likely to be largely or entirely blocked by the intervening Po Shan Mansion buildings. Changes to the landscape and visual baseline are thus judged to be insignificant.

 

Recommendations

8.8                        According to the environmental site inspections performed in the reporting month, the following recommendations were provided:

 

Air Quality Impact

-            Nil

 

Construction Noise Impact

-            Nil

 

Water Quality Impact

-            Nil

 

Chemical and Waste Management

-            Oils and fuels should be stored in designated area;

-            Debris and rubbish on-site should be collected, handled and disposed of properly;

-            Waste skips should be provided to collect general refuse and construction wastes.

 

Ecological Impact

-            The Contractor was reminded to take all necessary actions to prevent grout leakage and muddy run-off to the surrounding natural environment;

-            All identified vegetation of conservation interest should be preserved;

-            All site access should be clearly demarcated and no excessive removal of vegetation in natural areas adjacent to the site access should be allowed;

-            All plant species of conservation interest should be fenced off and tagged properly with clear sign, especially for those located near major access road and areas likely to be impacted by construction activities;

-            The Contractor was recommended to take necessary measures to prevent damage to all vegetation within the construction site; and

Dust and soil on vegetation should be washed away in a timely manner.Ecological Impact

Soil nail installation should avoid / minimize damage of root system to the existing plants.

 

-            Landscape and Visual Impact

;;;;; andSoil nails on site should avoid tree trunks and tree roots.