Figure 11.1 - 250m Consultation Zones of the SENT Landfill, SENT Landfill Extension, TKO Stage II/III Restored Landfill and TKO Stage 1 Restored Landfill

1 Introduction

1.1 Purpose of the Manual

This Environmental Monitoring and Audit (EM&A) Manual (“the Manual”) has been prepared by ERM-Hong Kong, Limited (ERM) on behalf of Water Supplies Department (hereinafter referred to as WSD). The Manual is a supplementary document of the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Study of the construction and operation of a desalination plant using Seawater Reverse Osmosis (SWRO) technology in Tseung Kwan O (TKO) Area 137 (hereafter referred to as the Project).

The Manual has been prepared in accordance with the EIA Study Brief (No. ESB-266/2013) and the Technical Memorandum of the Environmental Impact Assessment Process (EIAO-TM). The purpose of the Manual is to provide information, guidance and instruction to personnel charged with environmental duties and those responsible for undertaking EM&A work during construction and operation. It provides systematic procedures for monitoring and auditing of potential environmental impacts that may arise from the works.

This Manual contains the following information:

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

· Project organisation;

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

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

· Preliminary definition of Action and Limit levels;

· Establishment of Event and Action plans;

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

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

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

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

This Manual is considered to be a working document and should be reviewed periodically and updated if necessary during the course of implementing the Project.

1.2 Project Description

1.2.1 Project Scope

The proposed Tseung Kwan O desalination plant will produce potable water with an initial capacity of 135 million liter per day (MLD), expandable to an ultimate capacity of 270 Mld in the future to provide a secure and alternative fresh water resources complying with the World Health Organization (WHO) standards. The plant will adopt the Seawater Reverse Osmosis (SWRO) technology, which dominates the market due to its reliability and progressive reduction in cost as the technology advances.

The following elements of the Project are classified as Designated Projects under the Environmental Impact Assessment Ordinance (Cap. 499) (EIAO) and are addressed in this EIA Report:

· Schedule 2, Part I, Item E.2 – Water treatment works with a capacity if more than 100,000 m³ per day.

· Schedule 2, Part I, Item K.13 – A dangerous good godown with a storage capacity exceeding 500 tonnes.

· Schedule 2, Part I, Q.1 – Earthworks partly in an existing country park.

1.2.2 Site Location

The proposed site for the desalination plant is located in Tseung Kwan O (TKO) Area 137 with a reserved site area of about 10 hectares (ha). Natural slope mitigation works consist of construction of flexible barriers, soil nailing and rock stabilization at the lower portion of the natural slope within the Clear Water Bay Country Park. The present design will also involve the construction of submarine intake and outfall pipelines at Joss House Bay and the 9km freshwater rising main along Wan Po Road to the existing Tseung Kwan O Fresh Water Primary Service Reservoir (TKOFWPSR).

The location of the Project and the associated works are shown in Figure 1.1.

1.3 Objective of the EM&A

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

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

· provide a database of environmental parameters against which to determine any short term or long term environmental impacts;

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

· verify the environmental impacts predicted in the EIA; and

· audit environmental performance.

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

Table 1.1 Summary of EM&A Requirements

Parameters	EM&A Phase
Parameters	Design Phase ^{(1) (2)}	Construction Phase	Operation Phase
Air Quality	─	ü(SI)	─
Noise	─	ü	─
Water Quality	─	ü	ü
Waste	─	ü (SI)	─
Land Contamination	─	ü (SI)	─
Ecology (Terrestrial & Aquatic)	ü	ü (SI)	─
Fisheries	─	─	─
Landscape & Visual	ü	ü (SI)	ü (SI)
Landfill Gas Hazard	ü ⁽³⁾	ü	ü (SI)
Hazard to Life	ü	ü	ü
Notes: “ (SI) ”= Site Inspection forms the main checking method; “ ─ “ = no EM&A required
(1) Pre-construction monitoring may overlap the design phase. (2) EM&A requirements in the design phase shall include confirmation on the compliance for environmental designs which were specified in the EIA Report and the EP for all parameters. (3) The monitoring of landfill gas during construction would act as baseline monitoring.

1.4 The Scope of the EM&A Programme

The scope of this EM&A programme is to:

· establish baseline noise and water quality levels at specified locations and implement monitoring requirements for noise and water quality monitoring programme;

· implement inspection and audit requirements for air quality;

· implement inspection and audit requirements for waste management and land contamination;

· implement inspection and audit requirements for ecological mitigation measures;

· implement inspection and audit requirements for landscape and visual mitigation measures;

· implement inspection and audit requirements for landfill gas hazard;

· implement inspection and audit requirements for safeguard measures of hazard to life issues;

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

1.5 Works Programme & Works Locations

The preliminary construction programme is given in Figure 1.2. The locations of works are shown in Figure 1.1.

1.6 Organization & Structure of the EM&A

The proposed organisation of the personnel involved in the EM&A process is illustrated in Figure 1.3.

The roles and responsibilities of the various parties are summarised below:

· Project Proponent: Water Supplies Department.

· Environmental Protection Department (EPD) is the statutory enforcement body for environmental protection matters in Hong Kong

· The Engineer’s Representative (ER) shall appoint an appropriate member of the resident site staff, who shall:

(i) Monitor the Contractor’s compliance with the contract specifications, including the EM&A programme, and the effective implementation and operation of environmental mitigation measures in a timely manner;

(ii) Ensure that impact monitoring is conducted at the correct locations at the correct frequency as identified in the EM&A programme;

(iii) Instruct the Contractor to follow the agreed protocols or those In the Contract Specifications in the event of exceedances or complaints;

(iv) Review the programme of works with a view to identifying any potential environmental impacts before they arise;

(v) Check that mitigation measures that have been recommended in the EIA Report, this document and contract documents, or as required, are correctly implemented in a timely manner, when necessary;

(vi) Report the findings of site audits and other environmental performance reviews to DSD;

(vii) Verify the environmental acceptability of permanent and temporary works, relevant design plans and submissions; and

(viii) Comply with the agreed Event and Action Plan in the event of any exceedance.

· The Independent Environmental Checker (IEC) shall advise the ER on environmental issues related to the project. The IEC shall not be in any way an associated body of the ER, the Contractor or the ET for the project. The IEC shall be empowered to audit from an independent viewpoint the environmental performance during the construction of the Project. The IEC shall be a person who has relevant professional qualifications in environmental control and at least 7 years experience in EM&A and environmental management.

The IEC shall be responsible for the duties defined in this Manual, and shall audit the overall EM&A programme, including the implementation of all environmental mitigation measures, submissions required in this Manual, as well as any other relevant submissions required under the Environmental Permit. The IEC shall be responsible for verifying the environmental acceptability of permanent and temporary works, relevant design plans and submissions under the EP. The IEC shall verify the logbook prepared and kept by the ET Leader. The IEC shall notify EPD by fax, within 24 hours of receipt of notification from the ET Leader of any such instance or circumstance or change of circumstances or non-compliance with the EIA Report or the EP, which might affect the monitoring or control of adverse environmental impact.

The main duties of the IEC are to carry out independent environmental audit of the project. This shall include, inter alias, the following:

(i) Review and audit in an independent, objective and professional manner in all aspects of the EM&A programme;

(ii) Validate and confirm the accuracy of monitoring results, appropriateness of monitoring equipment, monitoring locations with reference to the locations of the nearby sensitive receivers, and monitoring procedures;

(iii) Carry out random sample check and audit on monitoring data and sampling procedures, etc;

(iv) Conduct random site inspection (at least once a month);

(v) Audit the EIA recommendations and EP requirements against the status of implementation of environmental protection measures on site;

(vi) Review the effectiveness of environmental mitigation measures and Project environmental performance;

(vii) On an as needed basis, verify and certify the environmental acceptability of the construction methodology (both temporary and permanent works), relevant design plans and submissions under the environmental permit. Where necessary, the IEC shall agree in consultation with the ET Leader and the Contractor the least impact alternative;

(viii) Verify investigation results of complaint cases and the effectiveness of corrective measures;

(ix) Verify EM&A reports submitted and certified by the ET Leader; and

(x) Feedback audit results to ER/ ET by signing according to the Event/ Action Plans specified in this Manual.

· An Environmental Team (ET) headed by an ET Leader shall preferably be appointed by the Contractor to carry out the recommended EM&A programme for the Project. Neither ET Leader nor ET shall be in any way an associated body of ER, IEC or the Contractor. The ET Leader shall plan, organise and manage the implementation of the EM&A programme, and ensure that the EM&A works are undertaken to the required standards. The ET Leader shall have relevant professional qualifications in environmental control and possess at least 7 years experience in EM&A and/or environmental management subject to the approval of their employer.

The ET Leader shall be responsible for the implementation of the EM&A programme in accordance with the EM&A requirements specified in this Manual and the EP. The ET Leader shall keep a contemporaneous logbook for recording each and every instance or circumstance or change of circumstances that may affect the compliance with the recommendations of the EIA report. This logbook shall be kept readily available for inspection by the IEC, and Director of Environmental Protection (DEP) or his authorised officers.

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

The broad categories of works of the ET comprise the following:

(i) To monitor the various environmental parameters as required by the EM&A programme;

(ii) To follow up and close out of the non-compliance actions;

(iii) To investigate and audit the Contractor’s equipment and work methodologies with respect to pollution control and environmental mitigation, and to anticipate environmental issues that may require mitigation before the problem arises;

(iv) To audit and prepare audit reports on the environmental monitoring data and the site environmental conditions;

(v) To review the EM&A programme after the collection and analysis of the baseline data;

(vi) To modify the EM&A programme in terms of parameters, sites, sample sizes, frequency etc. if appropriate in consultation with the ER and EPD; and

(vii) To report the environmental monitoring and audit results to the IEC, Contractor and the ER.

· The Contractor shall assign an on-site environmental coordinator to oversee Contractor’s environmental performance and the implementation of the EM&A duties. The coordinator shall be a person who has relevant professional qualifications in environmental control and is subject to approval by the ER.

The broad categories of works of the Contractor comprise the following:

(i) Work within the scope of the construction contract and other tender conditions with respect to environmental requirements;

(ii) Operate and strictly adhere to the guidelines and requirements in this EM&A programme and contract specifications;

(iii) Provide assistance to ET in carrying our monitoring;

(iv) Participate in the site inspections undertaken by the ET as required, and undertake correction actions;

(v) Provide information / advice to the ET regarding works activities which may contribute, or be continuing to the generation of adverse environmental conditions;

(vi) Submit proposals on mitigation measures in case of exceedances of Action and Limit levels in accordance with the Event / Action Plans;

(vii) Implement measures to reduce impact where Action and Limit levels are exceeded; and

(viii) Adhere to the procedures for carrying out complaint investigation.

The Contractor should also participate in the environmental performance review undertaken by the ER and undertake any corrective actions as instructed by the ER.

1.7 Structure of the EM&A Manual

The remainder of this Manual is set out as follows:

· Section 2 sets out the EM&A general requirements;

· Section 3 details the requirements for air quality audit;

· Section 4 details the requirements for noise monitoring;

· Section 5 details the requirements for water quality monitoring;

· Section 6 details the requirements for waste management and land contamination audit;

· Section 7 details the requirements for sewerage and sewage implication;

· Section 8 details the requirements for ecological mitigation measures;

· Section 9 details the requirements for fisheries mitigation measures;

· Section 10 details the requirements for landscape and visual mitigation measures;

· Section 11 details the requirements for landfill gas monitoring;

· Section 12 details the requirements for hazard to life safeguard measures;

· Section 13 describes the scope and frequency of site auditing;

· Section 14 details the EM&A reporting requirements;

· Annex A contains the implementation schedule summarising all mitigation measures proposed in the approved EIA Report with updates from the ER Report;

· Annex B contains the monitoring and complaint log sheets; and,

· Annex C presents the proposed methodology for the Silt Curtain Efficiency Test.

This Manual is an evolving document that should be updated to maintain its relevance as the Project progresses. The primary focus for these updates will be to ensure the impacts predicted and the recommended mitigation measures remain consistent and appropriate to the manner in which the works are to be carried out.

2 EM&A General Requirement

In this section, the general requirements of the EM&A programme for the Project are presented. The scope of the programme is developed with reference to the findings and recommendations of the EIA Report.

2.1 Construction Phase EM&A

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

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

a) Environmental Monitoring

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

b) Action and Limit Levels

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

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

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

c) Event and Action Plans

The purpose of the Event and Action Plans (EAPs) is to provide, in association with the monitoring and audit activities, procedures for ensuring that if any significant environmental incident occurs, the cause will be quickly identified and remediated. This also applies to the exceedances of A/L criteria identified in the EM&A programme.

d) Site Inspections

In addition to monitoring; as a means of assessing the ongoing performance of the Contractor(s), the ET will undertake site inspections and audits of the compliance with stipulated procedures and on-site practices. The primary objective of the inspection and audit programme will be to assess the effectiveness of the environmental controls established by the Contractor(s) and the implementation of the environmental mitigation measures recommended in the EIA Report. The IEC will undertake site inspection and audit on as need basis to assess the performance of the Contractor(s).

Whilst the audit and inspection programme will complement the monitoring activity, the criteria against which the audits will be undertaken will be derived from the Clauses within the Contract Documents which seek to enforce the recommendations of the EIA Report and the EM&A Manual.

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

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

e) Enquiries, Complaint and Requests for Information

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

All enquiries concerning the environmental impacts of the Project, irrespective of how they are received, should be reported to the Project Proponent and IEC and directed to the Contractor and ET who should set up procedures for handling, investigation and storage of such information. The following steps should be followed:

(a) The ET Leader should notify the IEC and ER of the nature of the enquiry.

(b) An investigation should be initiated to determine the validity of the complaint and to identify the source(s) of the problem.

· investigate and identify source(s) of the problem;

· if considered necessary by Project Proponent following consultation with the IEC, undertake additional monitoring to verify the existence and severity of the alleged complaint;

· identify necessary remedial measures and implement as soon as possible;

· if the complaint is transferred from EPD, submit interim report to EPD on status of the complaint investigation and follow-up action within the time frame assigned by EPD;

· repeat the monitoring to verify effectiveness of mitigation measures; and,

· repeat review procedures to identify further possible areas of improvement if the repeat monitoring results continue to substantiate the complaint.

(d) The outcome of the investigation and the action taken will be documented on a complaint log (Annex B). A formal response to each complaint received will be prepared by the Contractor(s) within five working days and submitted to Project Proponent, in order to notify the concerned person(s) that action has been taken. All enquiries/complaints that trigger this process should be reported in the monthly EM&A reports, which should include results of investigations undertaken by the ET Leader and the Contractor, and details of the measures taken, and additional monitoring results (if deemed necessary). It should be noted that the receipt of complaint or enquiry should not be, in itself, a sufficient reason to introduce additional mitigation measures.

During the complaint investigation work, the Contractor and ER shall cooperate with the ET Leader in providing all necessary information and assistance for completion of the investigation. If mitigation measures are identified in the investigation, the Contractor shall promptly carry out the mitigation. The ER shall ensure that the measures have been carried out by the Contractor.

f) Reporting

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

g) Cessation of EM&A

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

2.2 Operation Phase EM&A

Based on the findings of the EIA, water quality monitoring during operation phase is considered necessary. Monitoring of any planting works should also continue over their establishment period, which may extend into the operation phase, and will be covered by regular site inspections. Other operational licenses will require specific monitoring or audit conditions or practices, and a non EIA EM&A practice will need to be put in place.

3 Air Quality

The EIA study concluded that no air sensitive receivers (ASRs) will be affected by construction dust through the implementation of mitigation measures to reduce dust levels. During the operation phase, emissions will be controlled by integrated measures, regular inspections and relevant emissions licenses. Emissions from construction or operation phase are not predicted to yield concentrations that would lead to significant air quality impacts at the ASRs. Therefore, no air quality monitoring will be required for either the construction or operation phase, aside from that required by specific emissions licenses.

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

4 Noise

The mitigation measures and general requirements, methodology and equipment for monitoring and audit of noise impacts associated with the Project are described in this section.

4.1 Methodology & Criteria

The construction noise level shall be measured in terms of the A-weighted equivalent continuous sound pressure level (L_eq). L_eq _{(30 minutes)} shall be used as the monitoring parameter for the time period between 0700 and 1900 hours on normal weekdays. For all other time periods, L_eq _{(5 minutes)} shall be employed for comparison with the Noise Control Ordinance (NCO) criteria.

Supplementary information for data auditing, statistical results such as L₁₀ and L₉₀ shall also be obtained for reference. A sample data record sheet is shown in Annex B for reference.

4.1.1 Baseline Monitoring

The ET should carry out the baseline noise monitoring prior to the commencement of the major construction works. The baseline noise levels should be measured for a continuous period of at least 14 consecutive days at a minimum logging interval of 30 minutes during daytime between 0700 and 1900 hours. The Leq, L₁₀ and L₉₀ should be recorded at the specified intervals. A schedule for the baseline monitoring should be submitted to the IEC for approval before the commencement of baseline monitoring.

There should not be any construction activities in the vicinity of the monitoring stations during the baseline monitoring. Any non-project related construction activities in the vicinity of the monitoring stations during the baseline monitoring should be noted and the source and location of such activities should be recorded.

In exceptional cases, when baseline monitoring data obtained are insufficient or questionable, the ET should liaise with the IEC and EPD to agree on an appropriate set of data to be used as the baseline reference.

4.1.2 Impact Monitoring

The impact noise monitoring should be carried out at all the designated monitoring stations when there are project-related construction activities undertaken within a radius of 300m from the monitoring stations. Monitoring of Leq₍_30min) should be carried out at each station at 0700-1900 hours on normal weekdays at a frequency of once a week when construction activities are underway. Any general construction work carried out during restricted hours is controlled by Construction Noise Permit (CNP) under the NCO.

In case of non-compliances with the construction noise criteria, more frequent monitoring as specified in the Event and Action Plan (Section 4.4) should be carried out. This additional monitoring should be continued until the recorded noise levels show that the non-compliance is rectified or proved to be irrelevant to the project-related construction activities.

4.2 Monitoring Equipment

As referred to in the Technical Memorandum (TM) issued under the NCO, sound level meters in compliance with the International Electrotechnical Commission Publications 651: 1979 (Type 1) and 804: 1985 (Type 1) specifications shall be used for carrying out the noise monitoring. Immediately prior to and following each noise measurement the accuracy of the sound level meter shall be checked using an acoustic calibrator generating a known sound pressure level at a known frequency. Measurements should be accepted as valid only if the calibration level from before and after the noise measurement agrees to within 1.0 dB.

Noise measurements should not be made in fog, rain, wind with a steady speed exceeding 5 m s^-1 or wind with gusts exceeding 10 m s^-1. The wind speed shall be checked with a portable wind speed meter capable of measuring the wind speed in m s¹.

The ET is responsible for the provision of the monitoring equipment to ensure that sufficient noise measuring equipment and associated instrumentation are available for carrying out the baseline monitoring, regular impact monitoring and ad hoc monitoring. All the equipment and associated instrumentation shall be clearly labelled.

4.3 Monitoring Locations

According to the environmental findings detailed in the EIA report, the designated locations for the construction noise monitoring are listed in Table 4.1 and shown in Figure 4.1.

Table 4.1 Representative Noise Sensitive Receivers (NSRs) identified for Construction Noise Monitoring

ID	Noise Sensitive Receivers
NSR4	Creative Secondary School
NSR24	PLK Laws Foundation College
NSR31	School of Continuing and Professional Studies - CUHK

The status and location of the noise sensitive receivers (NSRs) may change after this EM&A Manual has been issued. In such case, and if changes to the monitoring locations are considered necessary, the ET should propose alternative monitoring locations and seek the agreement from the IEC and EPD on such proposal. When alternative monitoring locations are proposed, they should be chosen based on the following criteria:

(i) The monitoring locations close to the major construction works activities that are likely to have noise impacts;

(ii) The monitoring close to the NSRs as defined in the EIAO-TM; and,

(iii) The assurance of the minimal disturbance and working under a safe condition to the occupants during the monitoring in the vicinity of the NSRs.

The monitoring stations should normally be at a point 1m from the exterior of the facade of the NSR and be at a position 1.2m above ground. If there is a problem with access to the normal monitoring position, an alternative position should be chosen, and a correction to the measurement results should be made. For reference, a correction of +3dB(A) should be made to the free-field measurements. The ETL should agree with the IEC and EPD on the alternative monitoring position and corrections adopted. Once the positions for the monitoring stations are chosen, the baseline and impact monitoring should be carried out at the same positions.

4.4 Event and Action Plan

The action and limit levels for construction noise are defined in Table 4.2. If non-compliance occurred, actions as stated in Table 4.3 should be undertaken.

According to the EIA report, the construction activities would cause noise exceedances at various NSRs and, therefore, appropriate mitigation measures and good site practices are recommended. The Contractor should be responsible for the design and implementation of these measures. The Implementation Schedule of the mitigation measures is included in Annex A of this EM&A Manual.

Table 4.2 Action and Limit Levels for Construction Noise Impact Monitoring

Time Period	Action Level ^(a)	Limit Level
Construction Noise:
07:00 – 19:00 hours on normal weekdays	When one documented complaint is received from any one of the noise sensitive receivers or 75 dB(A) recorded at the monitoring station	· 70 db(A) for school and · 65 db(A) during examination period
Notes: (a) Limits specified in the GW-TM and IND-TM for construction and operational noise, respectively.

Event	Action
Action Level	1. Carry out investigation to identify the source and cause of the complaint/ exceedance(s) 2. Notify IEC, ER, and Contractor and report the results of investigation to the Contractor, ER and the IEC 3. Discuss with the Contractor and IEC for remedial measures required 4. If the complaint is related to the Project, conduct additional monitoring for checking mitigation effectiveness and report the findings and results to the IEC, ER and the Contractor	1. Review the analyzed results submitted by the ET 2. Review the proposed remedial measures by the Contractor and advise the ER accordingly 3. Supervise the implementation of remedial measures	1. Confirm receipt of Notification of Exceedance in writing 2. Require Contractor to propose remedial measures for the analysed noise problem 3. Ensure remedial measures are properly implemented	1. Submit noise mitigation proposals, if required, to the IEC and ER 2. Implement noise mitigation proposals.
Limit Level	1. Carry out investigation to identify the source and cause of the exceedance 2. Notify IEC, ER, Project Proponent, EPD and Contractor 3. Repeat measurements to confirm findings 4. Provide investigation report to IEC, ER, EPD and Contractor he causes of the exceedances 5. If the exceedance is related to the Project, assess effectiveness by additional monitoring. 6. Report the remedial action implemented and the additional monitoring results to IEC, EPD, ER and Contractor 7. If exceedance stops, cease additional monitoring	1. Review the analyzed results submitted by the ET 2. Discuss the potential remedial measures with ER, ET Leader and Contractor 3. Review Contractors remedial actions whenever necessary to assure their effectiveness and advise the ER accordingly 4. Supervise the implementation of remedial measures	1. Confirm receipt of Notification of Exceedance in writing 2. Require the Contractor to propose remedial measures for the analysed noise problem 3. Ensure remedial measures are properly implemented 4. If exceedance continues, consider what activity of the work is responsible and instruct the Contractor, in agreement with the Project Proponent, to stop that activity of work until the exceedance is abated	1. Take immediate action to avoid further exceedance 2. Submit proposals for remedial actions to IEC and ER within 3 working days of notification 3. Implement the agreed proposals 4. Resubmit proposals if problem still not under control 5. Stop the relevant activity of works as determined by the Project Proponent until the exceedance is abated

5 Water Quality

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

Water quality monitoring for the Project can be divided into the following stages:

· Dredging activities during construction phase;

· Discharge of effluent from main disinfection during construction phase;

· Operation phase – first year upon commissioning; and,

· Continuous monitoring of effluent quality.

In addition, the marine works contractor is required to complete a silt curtain efficiency test for the combined use of floating silt curtain type and cage type silt curtain for dredging at seawater intake to confirm the silt curtain reduction efficiency assumptions of the assessment. The initial testing plan is provided in Annex C. The details of testing plan will be updated during construction phase based on the actual silt curtain arrangements on site. The updated testing plan shall be submitted by the ET to seek approval from the IEC and EPD.

5.1 Sampling & Testing Methodology

5.1.1 Water Quality Parameters

The parameters that have been selected for measurement in situ and in the laboratory are those that were either determined in the EIA to be those with the most potential to be affected by the construction works or are a standard check on water quality conditions. Parameters to be measured in the construction phase, operation phase and effluent quality monitoring are listed in Table 5.1.

Table 5.1 Parameters measured in the marine water quality monitoring

Parameters	Unit	Abbreviation	Remarks
Parameters	Unit	Abbreviation	Baseline	Construction	First-year Operation	Effluent
In situ measurements
Dissolved oxygen	mg/L	DO	ü	ü	ü	ü
Temperature	°C	-	ü	ü	ü	ü
pH	-	-	ü	ü	ü	ü
Turbidity	NTU	-	ü	ü	ü	ü
Salinity	⁰/₀₀	-	ü	ü	ü	ü
Laboratory measurements
Suspended Solids	mg/L	SS	ü	ü	ü	ü
Iron	mg/L	Fe	ü		ü	ü
Anti-scalant	mg/L	_-			ü	ü
Total Residual Chlorine	mg/L	TRC		ü*	ü	ü

*Note: Monitoring of TRC will be conducted when cleaning and sterilization of the new freshwater main is carried out.

In addition to the water quality parameters, other relevant data will also be measured and recorded in Water Quality Monitoring Logs, including the location of the sampling stations, water depth, time, weather conditions, sea conditions, tidal stage, current direction and velocity, special phenomena and work activities undertaken around the monitoring and works area that may influence the monitoring results. A sample data record sheet is shown in Annex B for reference.

5.1.2 Monitoring Equipment

For water quality monitoring, the following equipment will be used:

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

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

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

Water Depth Gauge – A portable, battery-operated echo sounder (for example Seafarer 700 or a similar approved instrument) will be used for the determination of water depth at each designated monitoring station. This unit will preferably be affixed to the bottom of the work boat if the same vessel is to be used throughout the monitoring programme. The echo sounder should be suitably calibrated. The ET shall seek approval for their proposed equipment with the client prior to deployment.

Current Velocity and Direction – No specific equipment is recommended for measuring the current velocity and direction. The environmental contractor shall seek approval of their proposed equipment with the client prior to deployment.

Positioning Device – A Global Positioning System (GPS) shall be used during monitoring to allow accurate recording of the position of the monitoring vessel before taking measurements. The Differential GPS, or equivalent instrument, should be suitably calibrated at appropriate checkpoint (e.g. Quarry Bay Survey Nail) to verify that the monitoring station is at the correct position before the water quality monitoring commence.

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

Total Residual Chlorine for Discharge of Sterilization Water - Total residual chlorine (TRC) shall be measured in-situ using approved test kit.

5.1.3 Sampling / Testing Protocols

All in situ monitoring instruments will be checked, calibrated and certified by a laboratory accredited under HOKLAS ^{(^[1])} or any other international accreditation scheme before use, and subsequently re-calibrated at monthly intervals throughout the stages of the water quality monitoring. Responses of sensors and electrodes will be checked with certified standard solutions before each use.

On-site calibration of field equipment shall follow the “Guide to On-Site Test Methods for the Analysis of Waters”, BS 1427: 2009. Sufficient stocks of spare parts shall be maintained for replacements when necessary. Backup monitoring equipment shall also be made available so that monitoring can proceed uninterrupted even when equipment is under maintenance, calibration etc.

5.1.4 Laboratory Measurement and Analysis

All laboratory work shall be carried out in a HOKLAS accredited laboratory ^{(^[2])}. Sufficient volume of each water sample shall be collected at the monitoring stations for carrying out the laboratory analyses. Using chain of custody forms, collected water samples will be transferred to an HOKLAS accredited laboratory for immediate processing. The determination work shall start within the next working day after collection of the water samples. The laboratory measurements shall be provided to the client within 5 working days of the sampling event. Analytical methodology and sample preservation of other parameters will be based on the latest edition of Standard Methods for the Examination of Waste and Wastewater published by APHA, AWWA and WPCF and methods by USEPA, or suitable method in accordance with requirements of HOKLAS or another internationally accredited scheme. The submitted information should include pre-treatment procedures, instrument use, Quality Assurance/Quality Control (QA/QC) details (such as blank, spike recovery, number of duplicate samples per-batch etc), detection limits and accuracy. The QA/QC details shall be in accordance with requirements of HOKLAS or another internationally accredited scheme.

Parameters for laboratory measurements, their standard methods and their detection limits are presented in Table 5.2.

Table 5.2 Laboratory measurements, standard methods and corresponding detection limits of marine water quality monitoring

Parameters	Standard Methods	Detection Limit	Reporting Limit	Precision
Construction Phase
Dissolved oxygen (mg/L)	Instrumental, CTD	0.1	‒	±25%
Temperature (°C)	Instrumental, CTD	0.1	‒	±25%
pH	Instrumental, CTD	0.1	‒	±25%
Turbidity (NTU)	Instrumental, CTD	0.1	‒	±25%
Salinity (⁰/₀₀)	Instrumental, CTD	0.1	‒	±25%
Suspended Solids (mg/L)	APHA 2540E	1.0	‒	±25%
Total Residual Chlorine (mg/L) (for main disinfection)	Test-kit *	*	*	*
Operation Phase Marine Water Quality Monitoring
Dissolved oxygen (mg/L)	Instrumental, CTD	0.1	‒	±25%
pH	Instrumental, CTD	0.1	‒	±25%
Turbidity (NTU)	Instrumental, CTD	0.1	‒	±25%
Salinity (⁰/₀₀)	Instrumental, CTD	0.1	‒	±25%
Suspended Solids (mg/L)	APHA 2540E	1.0	‒	±25%
Anti-scalant	To be determined upon the confirmation of anti-scalant	To be determined
Iron	APHA 3111 B	0.2	-	±25%
Total Residual Chlorine (mg/L)	APHA 4500CL: G	0.2	‒	±25%

*Note: The testing methods, Quality Assurance/Quality Control 9QA/QC) details, detection limits and accuracy shall be submitted to EPD for approval prior to the commencement of monitoring programme.

5.1.5 Monitoring Locations

The water quality monitoring locations for baseline, construction and first-year operation phases are shown in Figure 5.1 and detailed in Table 5.3 below. A schedule for water quality monitoring shall be prepared by the ET and approved by IEC and EPD prior to the commencement of the monitoring.

Table 5.3 Location of Water Quality Monitoring Stations

Station	Easting	Northing	Description	Remarks
Station			Description	Baseline	Construction	First-year Operation
CE	843550	815243	Upstream control station at ebb tide	ü	ü	ü
CF	846843	810193	Upstream control station at flood tide	ü	ü	ü
WSR1	846864	812014	Ecological sensitive receiver at Tung Lung Chau	ü	ü	ü
WSR2	847645	812993	Fisheries sensitive receiver at Tung Lung Chau	ü	ü	ü
WSR3	848023	813262	Ecological sensitive receiver at Tung Lung Chau	ü	ü	ü
WSR4	847886	814154	Ecological sensitive receiver at Tai Miu Wan	ü	ü	ü
WSR16	845039	815287	Ecological sensitive receiver at Fat Tong Chau	ü	ü	ü
WSR33	847159	814488	Ecological sensitive receiver at Tai Miu Wan	ü	ü	ü
WSR36	846878	814081	Ecological sensitive receiver at Kwun Tsai	ü	ü	ü
WSR37	846655	813810	Ecological sensitive receiver at Tit Cham Chau	ü	ü	ü
NF1	846542	813614	Edge of nixing zone, ~ 200m west of outfall diffuser	ü		ü
NF2	846942	813614	Edge of nixing zone, ~ 200m east of outfall diffuser	ü		ü
NF3	846742	813414	Edge of nixing zone, ~ 200m south of outfall diffuser	ü		ü

Effluent from desalination plant shall be collected at a suitable location after all treatment process before discharge. The sampling location should be agreed with WSD and EPD, and should fulfil the following requirements:

· Effluent collected at the sampling location is representative to the effluent discharged at the outfall diffuser

· Sampling works at the sampling location would not interfere with the desalination plant operation

· Sampling works at the sampling location would not induce safety hazard (e.g. staff sampling effluent drops into the culvert)

The status and locations of water quality sensitive receivers and the monitoring sites may change after issuing this Manual. If such cases exist, the ET shall propose updated monitoring locations and seek approval from the ER, the IEC, and the IEC.

When alternative monitoring locations are proposed, they shall be chosen based on the following criteria:

· at locations close to and preferably at the boundary of the site activities as indicated in the EIA report, which are likely to have water quality impacts;

· close to the sensitive receptors which are directly or likely to be affected;

· for monitoring locations located in the vicinity of the sensitive receptors, care should be taken to cause minimal disturbance during monitoring; and

· reference stations which are at locations representative of the project site in its undisturbed condition.

5.1.6 Sampling Frequency

a) Baseline Monitoring

Baseline conditions for water quality shall be established and agreed with the IEC and the EPD prior to the commencement of works. The purpose of the baseline monitoring is to establish ambient conditions prior to the commencement of the works and to demonstrate the suitability of the proposed impact and control monitoring stations. The baseline conditions shall normally be established by measuring the water quality parameters specified above.

The measurements shall be taken at all designated monitoring stations including control stations, once per day for a minimum of 3 days per week for 4 weeks prior to the commencement of the construction works. Measurements shall be taken at each station at any time. The interval between two sets of monitoring shall not be less than 36 hours.

No construction activities shall be on-going in the vicinity of the stations during the baseline monitoring. The ET shall be responsible for undertaking the baseline monitoring and submitting the results within 10 working days from the completion of the baseline monitoring work.

In exceptional cases when insufficient baseline monitoring data or questionable results are obtained, the ET shall seek approval from the IEC and the EPD on an appropriate set of data to be used as baseline reference.

The baseline monitoring schedule shall be issued to the IEC and EPD at least 1 week prior to the commencement of baseline monitoring.

b) Construction Phase

During periods when there are dredging works, impact monitoring should be undertaken at the monitoring stations as shown in Figure 5.1 and Table 5.1 three times a week. Monitoring at each station would be undertaken at both mid-ebb and mid-flood tides on the same day. The tidal range selected for the baseline monitoring will be at least 0.5 m for both flood and ebb tides as far as practicable. The interval between two sets of monitoring would not be less than 36 hours. The monitoring frequency would be increased in the case of exceedances of Action/Limit Levels if considered necessary by ET. Monitoring frequency would be maintained as far as practicable.

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

For the discharge of dechlorinated effluent used after main sterilization, in-situ testing of total residual chlorine should be conducted every 1 hour (not less than) at the discharge point(s) should be conducted to ensure the level of total residual chlorine (TRC) does not exceed < 0.2 mg/L when dechlorinated effluent is being discharged. If the TRC level of the dechlorinated effluent exceeds the 0.2 mg/L, discharge should be suspended and the water should be circulated to a standby tank for further dechlorination and testing until the TRC level complies with the required discharge standard. The Contractor is required to submit the details of the chlorination and dechlorination treatment facilities, treatment processes, treatment capacity, discharge volume, methodology, chemicals use, implementation programme, sampling location(s), discharge location(s), monitoring frequency and event and action plan to the Engineer and verified with IEC before commencement of sterilization work. This plan should also be submitted to EPD for approval prior to the commencement of work.

c) First-year Operation Phase

Upon commencement of the desalination plant, an operation phase water quality monitoring exercise would be carried out for one-year, in the same manner as the baseline monitoring.

d) Continuous Effluent Quality Monitoring

The effluent should be collected in a full 24-hour period. Twenty four-hour flow-weighted composite effluent sample for subsequent chemical analysis and testing should be prepared by the following procedures:

· Collect effluent sub-sample at bi-hourly interval over a 24 hour period

· Obtain flow record of the Project for the 24-hour sampling period

· Calculate the volume of each sub-sample for preparation of flow-weighted composite sample

· Transfer the appropriate volume of sub-samples to a clean container and mix thoroughly

Continuous effluent quality monitoring shall be conducted in in accordance with the effluent parameters and standards stipulated by the WPCO Discharge License conditions and therefore would not be further detailed in this document. The monitoring requirement for the continuous effluent quality monitoring shall be approved by EPD. The effluent results reflect whether the effluent quality is in compliance with the Discharge License requirements. In case of non-compliance, suitable actions shall be undertaken to notify the plant operator for the non-compliance and identify the cause for the non-compliance. Corrective and remedial actions shall be implemented to improve the effluent quality. The monitoring frequency should also be increased until the effluent quality is in compliance with the Discharge License requirements. The non-compliance events and preventive measures shall be documented.

5.1.7 Sampling Depths & Replication

For baseline, construction phase and operation phase monitoring, each station will be sampled and measurements/ water samples will be taken at three depths, 1 m below the sea surface, mid-depth and 1 m above the seabed. For stations that are less than 3 m in depth, only the mid depth sample shall be taken. For stations that are less than 6 m in depth, only the surface and seabed sample shall be taken. For in situ measurements, duplicate readings shall be made at each water depth at each station. Duplicate water samples shall be collected at each water depth at each station.

The effluent sampling should be planned carefully to ensure appropriate volume of effluent sub-samples is collected to prepare sufficient amount of flow-weighted composite effluent sample for carrying out subsequent chemical analysis and testing.

5.2 Water Quality Compliance

Water quality monitoring will be evaluated against Action and Limit Levels. The key assessment parameters are dissolved oxygen and suspended sediment and thus Action and Limit Levels based on the assessment criteria are identified for these. However turbidity can also provide valuable instantaneous information on water quality and thus Action and Limit Levels are also recommended for this parameter to facilitate quick responsive action in the event of any apparent unacceptable deterioration attributable to the works. The proposed Action and Limit Levels are shown in Table 5.4.

Action and Limit levels are used to determine whether operational modifications are necessary to mitigate impacts to water quality. In the event that the levels are exceeded, appropriate actions in Event and Action Plan (Table 5.5) should be undertaken and a review of works will be carried out by the Contractor(s).

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

Table 5.4 Action and Limit Level for Water Quality

Parameter	Action Level	Limit Level
Construction Phase Marine Water Monitoring
DO in mgL^{-1 b}	Surface and Middle 5%-ile of baseline data for surface and middle layer Bottom 5%-ile of baseline data for bottom layers Tung Lung Chau Fish Culture Zone 5.1 mgL^-1 or level at control station (whichever the lower)	Surface and Middle 4 mg L^-1 Bottom 2 mg L^-1 Tung Lung Chau Fish Culture Zone 5.0 mgL^-1 or level at control station (whichever the lower)
Turbidity (Tby) in NTU (Depth-averaged^a)^c	95%-ile of baseline data, or 20% exceedance of value at any impact station compared with corresponding data from control station	99%-ile of baseline data, or 30% exceedance of value at any impact station compared with corresponding data from control station
SS in mgL^-1 (Depth-averaged^a)^c	95%-ile of baseline data, or 20% exceedance of value at any impact station compared with corresponding data from control station	99%-ile of baseline data, or 30% exceedance of value at any impact station compared with corresponding data from control station
Construction Phase Main Disinfection Effluent Discharge
Total Residual Chlorine (TRC) in mgL^-1(measured at the effluent discharge point outlet)	0.1 mg L^-1	0.1 mg L^-1
First-year Operation Phase Marine Water Monitoring
Dissolved oxygen in mg/L^b	Surface and Middle 5%-ile of baseline data for surface and middle layer Bottom 5%-ile of baseline data for bottom layers Tung Lung Chau Fish Culture Zone 5.1 mgL^-1 or level at control station (whichever the lower)	Surface and Middle 4 mg L^-1 Bottom 2 mg L^-1 Tung Lung Chau Fish Culture Zone 5.0 mgL^-1 or level at control station (whichever the lower)
Turbidity in NTU (Depth-averaged^a)^c	95%-ile of baseline data, or 20% exceedance of value at any impact station compared with corresponding data from control station	99%-ile of baseline data, or 30% exceedance of value at any impact station compared with corresponding data from control station
Salinity in PSU (Depth-averaged^a)^c	109% of baseline level or 9% exceedance of value at any impact station compared with corresponding data from control station	110% of baseline level or 10% exceedance of value at any impact station compared with corresponding data from control station
SS in mg/L (Depth-averaged^a)^c	95%-ile of baseline data, or 20% exceedance of value at any impact station compared with corresponding data from control station	99%-ile of baseline data, or 30% exceedance of value at any impact station compared with corresponding data from control station
Anti-scalant in mgL^-1 (Depth-averaged ^a)^c	0.362 mg L^-1	0.362 mg L^-1
Iron in mgL^-1 (Depth-averaged ^a)^c	0.3 mg L^-1	0.3 mg L^-1
Total Residual Chlorine in mgL^-1 (Depth-averaged ^a)^c	0.02 mg L^-1	0.02 mg L^-1
Notes: a. “Depth-averaged” is calculated by taking the arithmetic means of reading of all three depths. b. For DO, non-compliance of the water quality limits occurs when monitoring result is lower than the limits. c. For SS, turbidity, total residual chlorine, salinity, anti-scalant and iron, non-compliance of the water quality limits occurs when monitoring result is higher than the limits.

Parameter

Action Level

Limit Level

Construction Phase Marine Water Monitoring

DO in mgL^{-1
b}

Surface and Middle

5%-ile of baseline data for surface and middle layer

Bottom

5%-ile of baseline data for bottom layers

Tung Lung Chau Fish Culture Zone

5.1 mgL^-1 or level at control station (whichever the lower)

Surface and Middle

4 mg L^-1

Bottom

2 mg L^-1

Tung Lung Chau Fish Culture Zone

5.0 mgL^-1 or level at control station (whichever the lower)

Turbidity (Tby) in NTU (Depth-averaged^a)^c

95%-ile of baseline data, or

20% exceedance of value at any impact station compared with corresponding data from control station

99%-ile of baseline data, or

30% exceedance of value at any impact station compared with corresponding data from control station

SS in mgL^-1

(Depth-averaged^a)^c

95%-ile of baseline data, or

20% exceedance of value at any impact station compared with corresponding data from control station

99%-ile of baseline data, or

30% exceedance of value at any impact station compared with corresponding data from control station

Construction Phase Main Disinfection Effluent Discharge

Total Residual Chlorine (TRC) in mgL^-1(measured at the effluent discharge point outlet)

0.1 mg L^-1

First-year Operation Phase Marine Water Monitoring

Dissolved oxygen in mg/L^b

Surface and Middle

5%-ile of baseline data for surface and middle layer

Bottom

5%-ile of baseline data for bottom layers

Tung Lung Chau Fish Culture Zone

5.1 mgL^-1 or level at control station (whichever the lower)

Surface and Middle

4 mg L^-1

Bottom

2 mg L^-1

Tung Lung Chau Fish Culture Zone

5.0 mgL^-1 or level at control station (whichever the lower)

Turbidity in NTU (Depth-averaged^a)^c

95%-ile of baseline data, or

20% exceedance of value at any impact station compared with corresponding data from control station

99%-ile of baseline data, or

30% exceedance of value at any impact station compared with corresponding data from control station

Salinity in PSU (Depth-averaged^a)^c

109% of baseline level or 9% exceedance of value at any impact station compared with corresponding data from control station

110% of baseline level or 10% exceedance of value at any impact station compared with corresponding data from control station

SS in mg/L (Depth-averaged^a)^c

95%-ile of baseline data, or

20% exceedance of value at any impact station compared with corresponding data from control station

99%-ile of baseline data, or

30% exceedance of value at any impact station compared with corresponding data from control station

Anti-scalant in mgL^-1

(Depth-averaged ^a)^c

0.362 mg L^-1

Iron in mgL^-1

(Depth-averaged ^a)^c

0.3 mg L^-1

Total Residual Chlorine in mgL^-1

(Depth-averaged ^a)^c

0.02 mg L^-1

Notes:

a. “Depth-averaged” is calculated by taking the arithmetic means of reading of all three depths.

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

c. For SS, turbidity, total residual chlorine, salinity, anti-scalant and iron, non-compliance of the water quality limits occurs when monitoring result is higher than the limits.

Event	Action
Action Level being exceeded by one sampling day	1. Repeat in situ measurement on the next day of exceedance to confirm findings; 2. Check monitoring data, plant, equipment and Contractor(s)’s working methods; 3. Identify source(s) of impact and record in notification of exceedance; 4. Inform IEC, Contractor(s) and ER.	1. Check monitoring data submitted by ET and Contractor(s)’s working methods; 2. Inform EPD.	1. Confirm receipt of notification of exceedance in writing; 2. Check plant and equipment and rectify unacceptable practice	1. Confirm receipt of notification of exceedance in writing.
Action Level being exceeded by two or more consecutive sampling days	1. Repeat in situ measurement on the next day of exceedance to confirm findings; 2. Check monitoring data, plant, equipment and Contractor(s)’s working methods; 3. Identify source(s) of impact and record in notification of exceedance; 4. Inform IEC, Contractor(s) and ER; 5. Discuss with IEC and Contractor(s) on additional mitigation measures and ensure that they are implemented	1. Check monitoring data submitted by ET and Contractor(s)’s working methods; 2. Inform EPD; 3. Discuss with ET and Contractor(s) on additional mitigation measures and advise ER accordingly; 4. Assess the effectiveness of the implemented mitigation measures.	1. Confirm receipt of notification of exceedance in writing; 2. Check plant and equipment and rectify unacceptable practice; 3. Consider changes of working methods; 4. Discuss with ET and IEC on additional mitigation measures and propose them to ER within 3 working days; 5. Implement the agreed mitigation measures.	1. Confirm receipt of notification of exceedance in writing; 2. Discuss with the IEC on the proposed additional mitigation measures and agree on the mitigation measures to be implemented. 3. Ensure additional mitigation measures are properly implemented.
Limit Level being exceeded by one sampling day	1. Repeat in situ measurement on the next day of exceedance to confirm findings; 2. Check monitoring data, plant, equipment and Contractor(s)’s working methods; 3. Identify source(s) of impact and record in notification of exceedance; 4. Inform IEC, Contractor(s) and ER; 5. Discuss with IEC and Contractor(s) on additional mitigation measures and ensure that they are implemented	1. Check monitoring data submitted by ET and Contractor(s)’s working methods; 2. Inform EPD; 3. Discuss with ET and Contractor(s) on additional mitigation measures and advise ER accordingly; 4. Assess the effectiveness of the implemented mitigation measures.	1. Confirm receipt of notification of exceedance in writing; 2. Check plant and equipment and rectify unacceptable practice; 3. Critically review the need to change working methods; 4. Discuss with ET and IEC on additional mitigation measures and propose them to ER within 3 working days; 5. Implement the agreed mitigation measures.	1. Confirm receipt of notification of exceedance in writing; 2. Discuss with the IEC on the proposed additional mitigation measures and agree on the mitigation measures to be implemented. 3. Ensure additional mitigation measures are properly implemented. 4. Request Contractor(s) to critically review the working methods.
Limit Level being exceeded by two or more consecutive sampling days	1. Repeat in situ measurement on the next day of exceedance to confirm findings; 2. Check monitoring data, plant, equipment and Contractor(s)’s working methods; 3. Identify source(s) of impact and record in notification of exceedance; 4. Inform IEC, Contractor(s) and ER; 5. Discuss with IEC and Contractor(s) on additional mitigation measures and ensure that they are implemented	1. Check monitoring data submitted by ET and Contractor(s)’s working methods; 2. Inform EPD; 3. Discuss with ET and Contractor(s) on additional mitigation measures and advise ER accordingly; 4. Assess the effectiveness of the implemented mitigation measures.	1. Confirm receipt of notification of exceedance in writing; 2. Check plant and equipment and rectify unacceptable practice; 3. Critically review the need to change working methods; 4. Discuss with ET and IEC on additional mitigation measures and propose them to ER within 3 working days; 5. Implement the agreed mitigation measures. 6. As directed by ER, slow down or stop all or part of the marine construction works/ production volume of the desalination plant until no exceedance of Limit Level.	1. Confirm receipt of notification of exceedance in writing; 2. Discuss with the IEC on the proposed additional mitigation measures and agree on the mitigation measures to be implemented. 3. Ensure additional mitigation measures are properly implemented. 4. Request Contractor(s) to critically review the working methods; 5. Consider and instruct, if necessary, the Contractor(s) to slow down or to stop all or part of the marine construction works/ production volume of the desalination plant until no exceedance of Limit Level.

Activities	Timing	Checking Frequency	If non-compliance noted, Action Required
Necessary waste disposal permits or licences have been obtained	Before the commencement of works	Once	The ET will inform the Contractor(s), IEC and ER. The Contractor(s) will apply for the necessary permits/ licences prior to disposal of the waste. The ET will verify that corrective action has been taken.
Dredged sediments are managed and disposed in accordance with ETWB TC(W) No. 34/2002: Management Framework for Disposal of Dredged/ Excavated Sediment .	Throughout the dredging works.	Each Week	The ET will inform the Contractor(s), IEC and ER. ER will instruct the Contractor(s) to manage and dispose the dredged materials properly. The Contractor(s) will immediately suspend dredging until the dredging materials are properly managed and disposed.
Only licensed waste hauliers are used for waste collection.	Throughout the works	Each Week	The ET will inform the Contractor(s), IEC and ER. ER will instruct the Contractor(s) to use a licensed waste haulier. The Contractor(s) will temporarily suspend waste collection of that particular waste until a licensed waste haulier is used. Corrective action will be undertaken within 48 hours.
Records of quantities of wastes generated, recycled and disposed are properly kept. For demolition material/waste, the number of loads for each day will be recorded (quantity of waste can then be estimated based on average truck load. For landfill charges, the receipts of the charge could be used for estimating the quantity).	Throughout the works	Each Week	The ET will inform the Contractor(s), IEC and ER. The Contractor(s) will estimate the missing data based on previous records and the activities carried out. The ET will review the results and forward to ER for approval.
Sufficient waste disposal points are provided. Wastes are collected and removed from site in a timely manner. General refuse is collected on a regular basis.	Throughout the works	Each Week	The ET will inform the Contractor(s), IEC and ER. ER will instruct the Contractor(s) to remove waste accordingly.
Waste storage areas are properly cleaned and do not cause windblown litter and dust nuisance. Appropriate measures to reduce windblown litter and dust nuisance of waste will be adopted, e.g. by either covering trucks or by transporting wastes in enclosed containers.	Throughout the works	Each Week	The ET will inform the Contractor(s), IEC and ER. ER will instruct the Contractor(s) to clean the storage area and/or cover the waste.
Different types of waste are segregated in different containers or skip to enhance reuse and recycling of material and proper disposal of waste.	Throughout the works	Each Week	The ET will inform the Contractor(s), IEC and ER. ER will instruct the Contractor(s) to provide separate skips/ containers. The Contractor(s) will verify that the workers place the waste in the appropriate containers.
Chemical wastes are stored, handled and disposed of in accordance with the Code of Practice on the Packaging, Handling and Storage of Chemical Wastes, published by the EPD. Chemical wastes are separated for special handling and appropriate treatment at the Chemical Waste Treatment Centre at Tsing Yi.	Throughout the works	Each Week	The ET will inform the Contractor(s), IEC and ER. ER will instruct the Contractor(s) to rectify the issues immediately. Warning will be given to the Contractor(s) if corrective actions are not taken within 24 hrs.
Demolition materials are properly covered before leaving the site.	Throughout the works	Each Week	The ET will inform the Contractor(s), IEC and ER. ER will instruct the Contractor(s) to comply. The Contractor(s) will confirm that the demolition materials are properly covered when transport out of the site.
Wastes are disposed at licensed sites.	Throughout the works	Each Week	The ET will inform the Contractor(s), IEC and ER. ER will warn the Contractor(s) and instruct the Contractor(s) to confirm that the wastes are disposed of at the licensed sites. Should it involve chemical waste, the Waste Control Group of EPD will be notified.
Regular cleaning and maintenance programme for drainage systems, sumps and oil interceptors are provided. A recording system for the amount of wastes generated/ recycled and disposal sites is developed and implemented.	Throughout the works	Each Week	The ET will inform the Contractor(s), IEC and ER. ER will instruct the Contractor(s) to comply.

Event	Action
Non-conformity on one occassion	1. Identify source 2. Inform IEC and ER 3. Discuss remedial actions with IEC, the ER and the Contractor 4. Monitor/ audit/ review remedial actions until rectification has been completed	1. Check monitoring/ auditing results 2. Check the Contractor’s working method 3. Discuss with the ET and Contractor on possible remedial measures 4. Advise the ER on effectiveness of proposed remedial measures 5. Check the implementation of remedial measures	1. Take immediate action to avoid further problem 2. Amend working methods if needed 3. Submit proposals for remedial actions to ET, ER and IEC 4. Rectify damage and implement the agreed remedial actions	1. Notify Contractor 2. Ensure remedial measures are properly implemented 3. Consider and instruct, if necessary, the Contractor to slow down or to stop all or part of the works in case of serious non-conformity until situation is rectified
Repeated Non-comformity	1. Identify source 2. Inform IEC, ER, EPD and AFCD 3. Increase monitoring and audit frequency 4. Discuss remedial actions with the IEC, the ER and the Contractor 5. Monitor/ audit/ review remedial actions until rectification has been completed 6. If non-conformity stops, cease additional monitoring/ auditing	1. Check monitoring/ auditing results 2. Check the Contractor’s working method 3. Discuss with the ET and Contractor on possible remedial measures 4. Supervise the implementation of remedial measures 5. Advise the ER on effectiveness of proposed remedial measures and keep EPD and AFCD informed	1. Take immediate action to avoid further problem 2. Amend working methods if needed 3. Submit proposals for remedial actions to ET, ER and IEC 4. Rectify damage and implement the agreed remedial actions	1. Notify Contractor 2. Ensure remedial measures are properly implemented 3. Consider and instruct, if necessary, the Contactor to slow down or to stop all or part of the works in the case of serious non-conformity until situation is rectified

9 Fisheries

The EIA concluded that the Project would not affect fisheries resources and fishing activities significantly. With the use of trenchless method (e.g. HDD) in laying the submarine intake and outfall pipelines, there will be no marine works and no impact to the seabed. Potential indirect water quality impact from from site runoff and wastewater discharge on capture fisheries, fish spawning and nursery grounds and mariculture in the Eastern Water Control Zone are considered insignificant with the implementation of water quality mitigation measures. Apart from water quality mitigation measures, no specific fisheries mitigation is required and the residual impact is acceptable.

Water quality monitoring programme at various locations including the Tung Lung Chau Fish Culture Zone is recommended during construction and operation phases to ensure no unacceptable water quality impact is arising from the works. Details of the water quality monitoring and audit requirements and the associated event and action plans are described in Section 5 of this Manual.

10 Landscape & Visual

The EIA has recommended that checking of implementation of the mitigation measures for landscape and visual resources can be undertaken as part of the site inspection programme during construction, extending into operation phase depending on the establishment period of any planting works carried out (See Table 1.1 and Sections 2.1, 2.2).

The implementation and maintenance of mitigation measures (Annex A) will be checked to confirm that they are fully realized and that potential conflicts between the proposed landscape and visual measures and any other project works and operational requirements are resolved at the earliest practical date and without compromise to the intention of the mitigation measures.

11 Landfill Gas Hazard

Under Section 6.5, Chapter 9 of the Hong Kong Planning Standards and Guidelines, an evaluation of the risk posed by landfill gas (LFG) is required for any development proposed within a 250 m Landfill Consultation Zone. Part of the desalination plant and the indicative area of natural slope mitigation works fall within the SENT Landfill Extension Consultation Zone; and part of the 1,200 mm diameter fresh water mains along Wan Po Road falls within the SENT Landfill and SENT Landfill Extension Consultation Zones, TKO Stage II/III Restored Landfill and TKO Stage I Restored Landfill Consultation Zones (see Figure 11.1).

The qualitative LFG risk assessment in Section 12 of the EIA Report has indicated the risks associated with LFG at desalination plant and the associated facilities during both construction and operation are “Low” to ”Medium”. As such, some precautionary measures (“passive control”) and engineering measures (“semi active control”) will be required, respectively, to ensure Project is safe. Definitions of “passive control” and “semi active control” are annotated in Chapter 4 of the Landfill Gas Hazard Assessment Guidance Note issued by EPD. The following precautionary and protection measures are considered appropriate:

· Design Phase

- Cut-off barrier to seal any service trench entering the buildings within the Project Site and LFG consultation zones. Figure B.6 in the Guidance Note provides details of a suitable design; and

- Grilled metal covers are required to be used for the below grade cable trenches entering the buildings within the Project Site and LFG consultation zones.

· Construction Phase

- All workers should be aware of potential presence of LFG;

- Train and provide breathing apparatus and gas detection equipment for confined spaces or deep trenching;

- Impact monitoring should be conducted before excavations of 1m depth or more and/ or drilling operations within the Project Site and LFG consultation zones;

- Safety precautions should be made available during trenching, excavation and creation of confined spaces near to or below ground level; and

- Provision of Safety officers, specifically trained with regard to landfill gas and leachate related hazards and the appropriate actions to take in adverse circumstances, on the site throughout the works.

· Operational Phase

- Alert workers and visitors of possible LFG hazards;

- Prohibit smoking and open fires on site; and

- Conduct regular LFG monitoring at buildings, manholes, utility pits within the Project Site and consultation zones, etc.

11.1.1 LFG Parameters

LFG monitoring shall be carried out to identify any migration between the landfill and the Project and to ensure the safety of the construction, operation and maintenance personnel working on-site, visitors and any other person within the Project area.

The following parameters shall be monitored:

· Methane.

· Oxygen.

· Carbon Dioxide.

· Barometric Pressure.

Monitoring should be carried out and reported in a similar manner to that for the SENT Landfill and SENT Landfill Extension, TKO Stage II/III Restored Landfill and TKO Stage I Restored Landfill contracts to provide comparable data. The presentation format for LFG monitoring shall be agreed with EPD in advance.

11.1.2 Monitoring Equipment

LFG monitoring shall be carried out using intrinsically-safe, portable multi-gas monitoring instruments. The gas monitoring equipment shall:

· Comply with the Landfill Gas Hazard Assessment Guidance Note as intrinsically safe;

· Be capable of continuous barometric pressure and gas pressure measurements;

· Normally operate in diffusion mode unless required for spot sampling, when it should be capable of operating by means of an aspirator or pump;

· Have low battery, fault and over range indication incorporated;

· Store monitoring data, and shall be capable of being down-loaded directly;

· Measure in the following ranges:

- methane 0-100% Lower Explosion Limit (LEL) and 0-100% v/v;

- oxygen 0-25% v/v;

- carbon dioxide 0-100% v/v; and

- barometric pressure mBar (absolute).

· alarm (both audibly and visually) in the event that the concentrations of the following are exceeded:

- methane >10% LEL;

- carbon dioxide >0.5% by volume; and

- oxygen <19% by volume.

11.1.3 Monitoring Locations and Frequency

a) Construction Phase

During construction of works within the consultation zones, excavations of 1m depth or more should be monitored:

· at the ground surface before excavation commences;

· immediately before any worker enters the excavation;

· at the beginning of each working day for the entire period the excavation remains open; and

· periodically through the working day whilst workers are in the excavation.

For excavations between 300mm and 1m deep, measurements should be carried out:

· directly after the excavation has been completed; and

· periodically whilst the excavation remains open.

In the case that drilling operations are required to be carried out within any of the landfill consultation zones, the following additional recommendations should also be adopted, including:

· Proceed drilling with adequate care and precautions against the potential hazards which may be encountered;

· Prior to the commencement of the site works, the drilling contractor should devise a 'method-of-working' statement covering all normal and emergency procedures (including but not limited to number of operatives, experience and special skills of operatives, normal method of operations, emergency procedures, supervisors responsibilities, storage and use of safety equipment, safety procedures and signs, barriers and guarding). The site supervisor and all operatives must be familiar with this statement.

Both the monitoring locations and frequency will be ad hoc and instructed by the Engineer.

b) Operation Phase

Following construction, routine monitoring is required at buildings within the Project Site and consultation zones. The monitoring frequency will be monthly for the first year of operation. If the monitoring results show no sign of LFG migration, reduce the monitoring frequency to once every six months. However, should EPD alert the Operator that high LFG levels had been detected during monthly monitoring under the SENT Landfill, SENT Landfill Extension, TKO Stage II/III Restored Landfill and/ or TKO Stage I Restored Landfill contracts, then the Operator of the desalination plant may be required to increase LFG monitoring to monthly until such time as EPD inform the Operator that biyearly monitoring can be resumed.

For the manholes and utility pits within the Project Site and along the fresh water mains, each manhole/ utility pit should be monitored with two measurements (at mid depth and base). Each measurement should be monitored for a minimum of 10 minutes. A steady reading and peak reading should be recorded at each manhole/ utility pit and for each measurement. The need for venting the manhole/ utility pit and further monitoring will be reviewed after the initial monitoring. As the exact location of these will be dependent upon the detailed design of the desalination plant and fresh water mains, these locations cannot be specified prior to completion of the detailed design.

11.1.4 Limit Levels and Event and Action Plan For LFG

The Limit levels and EAP for LFG detected in excavations, utilities and any enclosed on-site areas are shown in Table 11.1 below.

Table 11.1 Action / Limit Levels and Event and Action Plan for LFG Hazard

Parameters	Level	Action
Oxygen (O₂)	Action Level < 19% O₂	Ventilate trench/void to restore O₂ to > 19%
	Limit Level < 19% O₂	Stop works Evacuate personnel/prohibit entry Increase ventilation to restore O₂ to > 19%
Methane (CH₄)	Action Level >10% LEL	Post "No Smoking" signs Prohibit hot works Increase ventilation to restore CH₄ to <10% LEL
	Limit Level >20% LEL	Stop works Evacuate personnel/prohibit entry Increase ventilation to restore CH₄ to<10% LEL
Carbon Dioxide (CO₂)	Action Level >0.5% CO₂	Ventilate to restore CO₂ to < 0.5%
	Limit Level >1.5% CO₂	Stop works Evacuate personnel / prohibit entry Increase ventilation to restore CO₂ to <0.5%

12 Hazard to Life

The EIA study concluded that no unacceptable risks are foreseen as a result of the operation of the desalination plant. No mitigation measures are thus deemed necessary and no monitoring will be required for the construction and operation phases.

Safeguard measures are recommended to ensure the risk associated with the use, storage, and transport of chlorine and DGs at the proposed Desalination Plant complies with the Hong Kong Risk Guidelines and stays in “Acceptable” region. The implementation of safeguard measures will be checked in the design, construction and operation phases according to the implementation schedule (Annex A).

13 Environmental Site Inspection

13.1 Site Inspections

Site inspections provide a direct means to track and ensure the enforcement of specified environmental protection and pollution control measures. Regular site inspections will be carried out by the ET and the Contractor once per week during construction phase. During operation phase, regular site audit shall be carried out to cover all planting works for a period of not less than 12-months. The IEC will also undertake monthly site audit to assess the performance of the Contractor(s). Additionally, the ET will be responsible for defining the scope of the inspections, detailing any deficiencies that are identified, and reporting any necessary action or mitigation measures that were implemented as a result of the inspection; the results of the inspections should be made available to the Contractor, IEC and ER.

The areas of inspection should include the general environmental conditions in the vicinity of the Site and pollution control and mitigation measures within the Site; it should also review the environmental conditions outside the site area which are likely to be affected, directly or indirectly, by site activities. The ET should make reference to the following information in conducting the inspections:

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

· ongoing results of the EM&A programme;

· works progress and programme;

· individual works method statements which will include proposals on associated pollution control measures;

· contract specifications on environmental protection; and

· relevant environmental protection and pollution control laws.

The ET’s inspection findings and their associated recommendations on improvements to the environmental protection and pollution control works should be submitted to the IEC and the Contractor within 24 hours, for comment and for taking immediate action. They should also be presented, along with the remedial actions taken, in the monthly EM&A reports. The Contractor should follow the procedures and time-frames stipulated in the environmental site inspection for the implementation of mitigation proposals. An action reporting system should be formulated and implemented to report on any remedial measures implemented subsequent to the site inspections.

Ad hoc site inspections should also be carried out by the ET and IEC if significant environmental problems are identified. Inspections may also be required subsequent to receipt of an environmental complaint, or as part of the associated investigation work.

13.2 Compliance with Legal & Contractual Requirements

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

The ET Leader should review the progress and programme of the works to check that relevant environmental laws have not been violated, and that any foreseeable potential for violating the laws can be prevented.

The Contractor should also regularly copy relevant documents to the ET Leader, IEC, ER and Project Proponent so that the checking work can be carried out. The relevant documents are expected to include the updated Work Progress Reports, the updated Works Programme, application letters for different licences/permits under the environmental protection laws, and all the valid licences/permit. The site diary should also be available, upon request, to the ET Leader during his site inspection.

After reviewing the documentation, the ET should advise IEC, ER, Project Proponent, EPD and Contractor of any non-compliance with the contractual and legislative requirements on environmental protection and pollution control for them to take follow-up actions. If the ET Leader's review concludes that the current status on licence/permit application and any environmental protection and pollution control preparation works is incompatible with the works programme or may result in potential violation of environmental protection and pollution control requirements by the works in due course, he should also advise the Contractor accordingly.

Upon receipt of the advice, the Contractor should undertake immediate action to remedy the situation. The ET, IEC and ER should follow up to ensure the appropriate actions have been taken by the Contractor in order that the environmental protection and pollution control requirements are fulfilled.

13.3 Environmental Complaints

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

· log complaint and date of receipt into the complaint database and inform the Contractor, ER, IEC and Project Proponent immediately;

· investigate the complaint jointly with the Contractor and the IEC and discuss with the Contractor and IEC to determine its validity and to assess whether the source of the issue is due to construction or operation of the Project;

· if a complaint is considered valid due to the construction or operation activities, the ET Leader should identify mitigation measures in consultation with the Contractor, and submitted to the IEC and ER for review. The ER should report the results to the Project Proponent;

· if mitigation measures are required, the ET Leader should advise the Contractor accordingly;

· review the Contractor's response on the identified mitigation measures and the updated situation;

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

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

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

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

During the complaint investigation work, the Contractor and ER shall cooperate with the ET Leader in providing all necessary information and assistance for completion of the investigation. If mitigation measures are identified in the investigation, the Contractor should promptly carry out the mitigation measures. EPD will approve the proposed mitigation measures and the ET Leader and IEC should check that the measures have been carried out by the Contractor.

13.4 Log-Book

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

14 Reporting

14.1 General

Reports can be provided in an electronic medium upon agreeing the format with the Contractor, IEC, IC, Project Proponent and the EPD. All the monitoring data should also be submitted on diskettes or CD Rom.

14.2 Baseline Monitoring Report

The ET Leader shall prepare and submit a Baseline Environmental Monitoring Report within 10 days of completion of the baseline monitoring. The Baseline Monitoring Report will be submitted to the Contractor, IEC, ER and EPD. The baseline monitoring report will include at least the following:

(a) up to half a page executive summary;

(b) brief project background information;

(d) an updated construction programme;

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

· monitoring methodology;

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

· parameters monitored;

· monitoring locations;

· monitoring date, time, frequency and duration; and

· quality assurance (QA) / quality control (QC) results and detection limits;

(f) details on influencing factors, including:

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

· weather conditions during the period; and

· other factors which might affect results;

(g) determination of the Action and Limit Levels (A/L levels) for each monitoring parameter and statistical analysis of the baseline data;

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

(i) comments and conclusions.

14.3 Monthly EM&A Reports

The results and findings of all EM&A works required in the Manual should be recorded in the monthly EM&A Reports and be prepared by the ET and verified by the ET Leader. The reports will be submitted to the Contractor, IEC and EPD within 10 working days of the end of each reporting month, with the first report due in the month after construction works commence. The ET should liaise with the relevant parties to confirm the exact number and format of monthly reports in both hard copy and electronic format. The report should include, but not be limited to, the following elements:

a) First Monthly EM&A Report

The first monthly EM&A report should include at least but not be limited to the following:

Executive Summary (1-2 pages);

· Exceedances of Action/Limit Levels;

· Complaint Log;

· Notifications of any summons and successful prosecutions;

· Reporting Changes;

· Future key issues.

Basic Project Information

· Project organisation including key personnel contact names and telephone numbers;

· Construction Programme with fine tuning of construction activities showing the inter-relationship with environmental protection/ mitigation measures for the month; and

· Works undertaken during the month.

Environmental Status

· Works undertaken during the month with illustrations (such as location of works); and

· Drawing showing the Project area, any environmental sensitive receivers.

Summary of EM&A requirements including:

· Environmental mitigation measures, as recommended in the EIA Report; and

· Environmental monitoring requirements and contractual requirements.

Implementation Status

· Advice on the implementation status of environmental protection and pollution control/mitigation measures, as recommended in the EIA Report, summarised in the updated implementation schedule.

Site Audit Report

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

· Monitoring methodology;

· Name of laboratory and equipment used and calibration details;

· Parameters monitored;

· Monitoring locations (and depth); and

· Monitoring date, time, frequency, and duration.

Report on Complaints, Notifications of Summons and Successful Prosecutions

· Record of all complaints received (written or verbal) for each media, including locations and nature of complaints investigation, liaison and consultation undertaken, actions and follow-up procedures taken, results and summary;

· Record of notifications of summons and successful prosecutions for breaches of the current environmental protection/pollution control legislation’s, including locations and nature of the breaches, investigation, follow-up actions taken, results and summary;

· Review of the reasons for and the implications of non-compliance, complaints, summons and prosecutions including review of pollution sources and working procedures; and

· Description of the actions taken in the event of non-compliance and deficiency reporting and any follow-up procedures related to earlier non-compliance.

Others

· An account of the future key issues as reviewed from the works programme and work method statements; and

· Submission of implementation status proforma, proactive environmental protection proforma, regulatory compliance proforma, site inspection proforma, data recovery schedule and complaint log summarising the EM&A of the period.

b) Subsequent Monthly EM&A Reports

The subsequent monthly EM&A reports should include the following:

Executive Summary (1-2 pages)

· Exceedances of Action/Limit Levels;

· Complaint Log;

· Notifications of any summons and successful prosecutions;

· Reporting Changes; and

· Future key issues.

Environmental Status

· Construction Programme with fine tuning of construction activities showing the inter-relationship with environmental protection/ mitigation measures for the month;

· Works undertaken during the month with illustrations including key personnel contact names and telephone numbers; and

· Drawing showing the project area, any environmental sensitive receivers.

Implementation Status

Advice on the implementation status of environmental protection and pollution control/mitigation measures, as recommended in the project EIA study report, summarised in the updated implementation schedule.

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

· Monitoring methodology;

· Name of laboratory and equipment used and calibration details;

· Parameters monitored;

· Monitoring locations (and depth); and

· Monitoring date, time, frequency, and duration.

Report on Complaints, Notifications of Summons and Successful Prosecutions

· Review of the reasons for and the implications of non-compliance, complaints, summons and prosecutions including review of pollution sources and working procedures; and

· Description of the actions taken in the event of non-compliance and deficiency reporting and any follow-up procedures related to earlier non-compliance.

Others

· An account of the future key issues as reviewed from the works programme and work method statements.

Appendix

· Supporting documents;

· Outstanding issues and deficiencies.

14.4 Quarterly EM&A Summary Reports

The quarterly EM&A summary report should contain the following listed information:

(a) Executive summary (up to half page);

(b) Basic project information including a synopsis of the project organisation, programme, contacts of key management, and a synopsis of work undertaken during the quarter;

· Monitoring parameters;

· Environmental quality performance limits (Action and Limit levels); and

· Environmental mitigation measures, as recommended in the Final EIA.

(d) Advice on the implementation status of environmental protection and pollution control/mitigation measures, as recommended in the Final EIA, summarised in the updated implementation schedule;

(e) Drawings showing the project area, any environmental sensitive receivers and the locations of the monitoring and control stations;

(f) Graphical plots of the trends of monitored parameters over the past 4 months (the last month of the previous quarter and the present quarter) for representative monitoring stations annotated against:

· The major activities being carried out on site during the period;

· Weather conditions during the period; and

· Any other factors which might affect the monitoring results.

(g) Advice on the solid and liquid waste management status;

(h) A summary of non-compliance (exceedances) of the environmental quality performance limits (Action and Limit levels);

(i) A brief review of the reasons for and the implications of non-compliance including review of pollution sources and working procedures;

(j) A summary description of the actions taken in the event of non-compliance and any follow-up procedures related to earlier non-compliance;

(k) A summary record of all complaints received (written or verbal) for each media, liaison and consultation undertaken, actions and follow-up procedures taken;

(l) A summary record of notifications of summons and successful prosecutions for breaches of the current environmental protection/pollution control legislations, locations and nature of the breaches, investigation, follow-up actions taken and results;

(m) Comments (e.g. effectiveness and efficiency of the mitigation measures), recommendations (e.g. any improvement in the EM&A programme) and conclusions for the quarter; and

(n) Project Proponents' contacts and any hotline telephone number for the public to make enquiries.

14.5 Annual EM&A Review Report

The Annual EM&A Review Report should contain the following listed information:

(a) Executive summary (up to half page);

(b) Drawings showing the Project area, environmental sensitive receivers and monitoring and control stations;

(c) Basic project information including a synopsis of the project organisation, programme, contacts of key management, and a synopsis of work undertaken during the quarter;

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

· Monitoring parameters;

· Environmental quality performance limits (Action and Limit levels); and

· Environmental mitigation measures, as recommended in the Final EIA;

(e) Summary of the implementation status of environmental protection and pollution control/mitigation measures, as recommended in the Final EIA, summarised in the updated implementation schedule;

· The major activities being carried out on site during the period;

· Weather conditions during the period; and

· Any other factors which might affect the monitoring results.

(g) A summary of non-compliance (exceedances) of the environmental quality performance limits (Action and Limit levels);

(h) A brief review of the reasons for and the implications of non-compliance including review of pollution sources and working procedures;

(i) A summary description of the actions taken in the event of non-compliance and any follow-up procedures related to earlier non-compliance;

(j) A summary record of all complaints received (written or verbal) for each media, liaison and consultation undertaken, actions and follow-up procedures taken;

(k) A summary record of notifications of summons and successful prosecutions for breaches of the current environmental protection/pollution control legislations, locations and nature of the breaches, investigation, follow-up actions taken and results;

(l) Comments (e.g. effectiveness and efficiency of the mitigation measures), recommendations (e.g. any improvement in the EM&A programme) and conclusions for the quarter; and

(m) Project Proponents' contacts and any hotline telephone number for the public to make enquiries.

14.6 Final EM&A Summary Report

The EM&A programme will be terminated upon the completion of the construction works and specified operation phase monitoring period so that the potential to cause significant environmental impacts is ceased and the post-project monitoring is concluded.

The final EM&A summary report will include, inter alia, the following:

(a) An executive summary;

(b) Drawings showing the project area, any environmental sensitive receivers;

(c) Basic project information including a synopsis of the project organisation, programme, contracts of key management, and a synopsis of work undertaken during the entire construction period;

(d) A brief summary of EM&A requirements including: environmental mitigation measures, as recommended in the EIA Report;

(e) Advice on the implementation status of environmental protection and pollution control/mitigation measures, as recommended in the EIA Report, summarised in the updated implementation schedule;

(f) Provide clear-cut decisions on the environmental acceptability of the Project with reference to the specific impact hypothesis;

(g) A summary description of the actions taken in the event of non-compliance and any follow-up procedures related to earlier non-compliance;

(h) A summary record of all complaints received (written or verbal) for each media, liaison and consultation undertaken, actions and follow-up procedures taken;

(i) A summary record of notification of summons and successful prosecutions for breaches of the current environmental protection/ pollution control legislation’s, locations and nature of the breaches, investigation, follow-up actions taken and results;

(j) Review the practicality and effectiveness of the EIA process and EM&A programme (eg effectiveness and efficiency of the mitigation measures) recommend any improvement in the EM&A programme; and

(k) A conclusion to state the return of ambient and/or the predicted scenario as per EIA findings.

14.7 Data Keeping

Documentation such as the monitoring field records, site inspection forms, etc. are not required to be included in the monthly EM&A reports for submission. However, such documents should be well kept by the ET Leader and should be available for the inspection of the IEC, Project Proponent and EPD upon request. All relevant information should be clearly and systematically recorded in the documents. The monitoring data should also be recorded in electronic format. All the documents and data should be kept for at least five years after completion of the Extension contract.

([1]) The laboratory will be contracted before commencement of the monitoring programme.

([2]) The laboratory will be contracted before commencement of the monitoring programme.

Event	Action
	ET	IEC	ER	Contractor
Action Level	1. Carry out investigation to identify the source and cause of the complaint/ exceedance(s) 2. Notify IEC, ER, and Contractor and report the results of investigation to the Contractor, ER and the IEC 3. Discuss with the Contractor and IEC for remedial measures required 4. If the complaint is related to the Project, conduct additional monitoring for checking mitigation effectiveness and report the findings and results to the IEC, ER and the Contractor	1. Review the analyzed results submitted by the ET 2. Review the proposed remedial measures by the Contractor and advise the ER accordingly 3. Supervise the implementation of remedial measures	1. Confirm receipt of Notification of Exceedance in writing 2. Require Contractor to propose remedial measures for the analysed noise problem 3. Ensure remedial measures are properly implemented	1. Submit noise mitigation proposals, if required, to the IEC and ER 2. Implement noise mitigation proposals.
Limit Level	1. Carry out investigation to identify the source and cause of the exceedance 2. Notify IEC, ER, Project Proponent, EPD and Contractor 3. Repeat measurements to confirm findings 4. Provide investigation report to IEC, ER, EPD and Contractor he causes of the exceedances 5. If the exceedance is related to the Project, assess effectiveness by additional monitoring. 6. Report the remedial action implemented and the additional monitoring results to IEC, EPD, ER and Contractor 7. If exceedance stops, cease additional monitoring	1. Review the analyzed results submitted by the ET 2. Discuss the potential remedial measures with ER, ET Leader and Contractor 3. Review Contractors remedial actions whenever necessary to assure their effectiveness and advise the ER accordingly 4. Supervise the implementation of remedial measures	1. Confirm receipt of Notification of Exceedance in writing 2. Require the Contractor to propose remedial measures for the analysed noise problem 3. Ensure remedial measures are properly implemented 4. If exceedance continues, consider what activity of the work is responsible and instruct the Contractor, in agreement with the Project Proponent, to stop that activity of work until the exceedance is abated	1. Take immediate action to avoid further exceedance 2. Submit proposals for remedial actions to IEC and ER within 3 working days of notification 3. Implement the agreed proposals 4. Resubmit proposals if problem still not under control 5. Stop the relevant activity of works as determined by the Project Proponent until the exceedance is abated

1 Introduction

1.2.1 Project Scope

1.2.2 Site Location

The scope of this EM&A programme is to:

1.5 Works Programme & Works Locations

The preliminary construction programme is given in Figure 1.2. The locations of works are shown in Figure 1.1.

In this section, the general requirements of the EM&A programme for the Project are presented. The scope of the programme is developed with reference to the findings and recommendations of the EIA Report.

a) Environmental Monitoring

b) Action and Limit Levels

c) Event and Action Plans

d) Site Inspections

e) Enquiries, Complaint and Requests for Information

f) Reporting

g) Cessation of EM&A

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

Supplementary information for data auditing, statistical results such as L10 and L90 shall also be obtained for reference. A sample data record sheet is shown in Annex B for reference.

4.1.1 Baseline Monitoring

4.1.2 Impact Monitoring

Water quality monitoring for the Project can be divided into the following stages:

· Dredging activities during construction phase;

· Discharge of effluent from main disinfection during construction phase;

· Operation phase – first year upon commissioning; and,

· Continuous monitoring of effluent quality.

5.1.1 Water Quality Parameters

5.1.2 Monitoring Equipment

For water quality monitoring, the following equipment will be used:

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

Current Velocity and Direction – No specific equipment is recommended for measuring the current velocity and direction. The environmental contractor shall seek approval of their proposed equipment with the client prior to deployment.

Total Residual Chlorine for Discharge of Sterilization Water - Total residual chlorine (TRC) shall be measured in-situ using approved test kit.

5.1.3 Sampling / Testing Protocols

5.1.4 Laboratory Measurement and Analysis

Parameters for laboratory measurements, their standard methods and their detection limits are presented in Table 5.2.

5.1.5 Monitoring Locations

The water quality monitoring locations for baseline, construction and first-year operation phases are shown in Figure 5.1 and detailed in Table 5.3 below. A schedule for water quality monitoring shall be prepared by the ET and approved by IEC and EPD prior to the commencement of the monitoring.

5.1.6 Sampling Frequency

a) Baseline Monitoring

b) Construction Phase

c) First-year Operation Phase

d) Continuous Effluent Quality Monitoring

5.1.7 Sampling Depths & Replication

6 Waste Management and Land Contamination

The proposed desalination plant is expected to generate the following types of waste during the construction phase:

· Dredged marine sediment;

· Excavated materials;

· Construction & demolition (C&D) materials;

· Chemical waste; and

· General refuse.

In addition to the above, dewatered sludge will be generated during operation phase.

Mitigation measures, where appropriate, have been recommended as part of the EIA to avoid or reduce potential adverse environmental impacts associated with handling, collection and disposal of waste arising from the construction of the proposed Project.

Waste management will be the Contractor(s)’s responsibility and wastes produced during the construction phase will be managed in accordance with appropriate waste management practices and EPD’s regulations and requirements.

a) General Legislation

b) Other Relevant Guidelines

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

The aims of the waste inspection and audit programme are:

No specific EM&A requirement is therefore required. Nevertheless, visual inspection during construction stage of the Project is recommended as best practice during construction activities related to the sewerage works (Annex A).

8.1 Impact Monitoring

The recommended good site practices should be audited at least once every week as part of the site audit programme. The weekly site audit to be carried out by the ET should include checking whether good site practices are being properly implemented by the Contractor.

10 Landscape & Visual

11.1.1 LFG Parameters

LFG monitoring shall be carried out to identify any migration between the landfill and the Project and to ensure the safety of the construction, operation and maintenance personnel working on-site, visitors and any other person within the Project area.

The following parameters shall be monitored:

· Methane.

· Oxygen.

· Carbon Dioxide.

· Barometric Pressure.

11.1.2 Monitoring Equipment

LFG monitoring shall be carried out using intrinsically-safe, portable multi-gas monitoring instruments. The gas monitoring equipment shall:

· Comply with the Landfill Gas Hazard Assessment Guidance Note as intrinsically safe;

· Be capable of continuous barometric pressure and gas pressure measurements;

· Normally operate in diffusion mode unless required for spot sampling, when it should be capable of operating by means of an aspirator or pump;

· Have low battery, fault and over range indication incorporated;

· Store monitoring data, and shall be capable of being down-loaded directly;

· Measure in the following ranges:

- methane 0-100% Lower Explosion Limit (LEL) and 0-100% v/v;

- oxygen 0-25% v/v;

- carbon dioxide 0-100% v/v; and

- barometric pressure mBar (absolute).

· alarm (both audibly and visually) in the event that the concentrations of the following are exceeded:

- methane >10% LEL;

- carbon dioxide >0.5% by volume; and

Supplementary information for data auditing, statistical results such as L₁₀ and L₉₀ shall also be obtained for reference. A sample data record sheet is shown in Annex B for reference.