TABLE OF CONTENTS

Sign Page

1        Introduction.. 1

1.1       Project Background. 1

1.2       Location and Scope of the Project 1

1.3       Purpose of this Manual 2

1.4       Project Organisation. 3

1.5       Structure of the Manual 5

2        Air Quality.. 7

2.1       Introduction. 7

2.2       Monitoring Parameters. 7

2.3       Monitoring Equipment 8

2.4       Laboratory Measurement / Analysis (For TSP Measurement only) 12

2.5       Monitoring Locations. 12

2.6       Baseline Monitoring (for TSP only) 14

2.7       Impact Monitoring (for TSP, RSP and FSP) 15

2.8       Event and Action Plan. 15

2.9       Mitigation Measures. 20

2.10    Audit Requirements. 20

3        Noise.. 21

3.1       Introduction. 21

3.2       General Monitoring Requirement and Equipment 21

3.3       Monitoring Parameters. 22

3.4       Monitoring Locations. 22

3.5       Baseline Monitoring. 23

3.6       Impact Monitoring. 23

3.7       Event and Action Plan. 23

3.8       Mitigation Measures. 25

3.9       Audit Requirements. 25

4        Water Quality.. 26

4.1       Introduction. 26

4.2       Water Quality Parameters. 26

4.3       Sampling Procedures and Monitoring Equipment 26

4.4       Laboratory Measurement / Analysis. 28

4.5       Water Quality Monitoring Stations. 28

4.6       Details of Water Quality Monitoring. 30

4.7       Construction Site Audits. 33

5        Waste Management implications. 35

5.1       Introduction. 35

5.2       Mitigation Measures. 35

5.3       Audit Requirement 36

6        MarinE Ecology.. 37

6.1       Introduction. 37

6.2       Mitigation Measures. 37

6.3       Monitoring Requirements. 37

6.4       Audit Requirements. 37

7        Fisheries. 38

7.1       Introduction. 38

7.2       Mitigation Measures. 38

7.3       Monitoring and Audit Measures. 39

8        Landscape and Visual.. 40

8.1       Introduction. 40

8.2       Mitigation Measures. 40

8.3       Audit Requirements. 40

9        Cultural Heritage.. 41

9.1       Introduction. 41

9.2       Mitigation Measures. 41

10      Site Inspection / Audit.. 43

10.1    Site Inspection Requirements. 43

10.2    Compliance with Legal and Contractual Requirements. 44

10.3    Environmental Complaints. 44

11      Reporting.. 47

11.1    Introduction. 47

11.2    Electronic Reporting of EM&A Information. 47

11.3    Baseline Monitoring Report 47

11.4    Monthly EM&A Reports. 48

11.5    Quarterly EM&A Summary Reports. 53

11.6    Final EM&A Review Report for Construction Phase. 54

11.7    Data Keeping. 55

11.8    Interim Notifications of Environmental Quality Limit Exceedances. 56

 

 

List of tables

Table 2.1      Recommended Performance Metrics and Target Values for On-site Checking of PM Monitoring Equipment 10

Table 2.2     Proposed Construction Air Quality Monitoring Stations. 13

Table 2.3     Summary of Construction Air Quality Impact Monitoring Programme  15

Table 2.4     Action and Limit Levels for Construction Air Quality Impact 16

Table 2.5     Event and Action Plan for Construction Air Quality Impact (TSP monitoring) 17

Table 2.6     Event and Action Plan for Construction Air Quality Impact (RSP and FSP monitoring) 19

Table 3.1     Proposed Noise Monitoring stations during Construction Phase of the Project 22

Table 3.2     Action and Limit Levels for Construction Noise. 23

Table 3.3     Event and Action Plan for Construction Noise. 24

Table 4.1     Proposed Marine Water Quality Stations for Baseline and Impact Monitoring. 29

Table 4.2     Action and Limit Levels for Water Quality. 31

Table 4.3     Event and Action Plan for Water Quality Monitoring. 32

 

 

LIST OF FIGURES

Figure 1.1

Project Boundary and Layout Plan

Figure 2.1

Locations of Representative Air Sensitive Receivers

Figure 2.2

Locations of Construction Dust Monitoring Stations

Figure 3.1

Locations of Construction Noise Monitoring Stations

Figure 4.1

Locations of Water Quality Monitoring Stations

 

 

LIST OF APPENDICES

Appendix A

Project Organisation

Appendix B

Implementation Schedule of Recommended Mitigation Measures

Appendix C

Data Record Sheets

Appendix D

Sample of the Interim Notification

 

 

 

1                    Introduction

1.1                Project Background

1.1.1           The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (the Government) is taking forward the Invigorating Island South (IIS) initiative announced in the 2020 Policy Address to develop the Southern District into a place full of vibrancy, vigour, and velocity for people to work, live, explore new ideas and have fun.  One of the key projects under the IIS initiative is to explore the feasibility of expanding the Aberdeen Typhoon Shelter (ATS) and enhancing the vessel berthing area.

1.1.2           In the 2021 Policy Address, the Government announced to commence an investigation and design study in 2022 for the expansion of the ATS to create additional vessel berthing area. To this end, the Civil Engineering and Development Department (CEDD) engaged AECOM as the Consultant in April 2022 to undertake the Assignment "CE 80/2021 – Expansion of Aberdeen Typhoon Shelter – Investigation, Design and Construction" (hereinafter referred to as “the Project”). The Project aims to address the strong regional demand for sheltered vessel space in Hong Kong Island South.  Beyond providing essential berthing, the expansion of the ATS also aims to foster tourism, leisure, and recreation opportunities in the Southern District and explore the possibilities for future marina development.

1.1.3           The Government announced in the 2024 Policy Address to conduct detailed design for the expansion of Aberdeen Typhoon Shelter, including the integration of public landing facilities with the proposed breakwater at Tai Shue Wan to create synergies.

1.2                Location and Scope of the Project

1.2.1           The Project site is located at Aberdeen Channel.  It is sandwiched by Ap Lei Pai and Ap Lei Chau in the west and Tai Shue Wan in the east.  Its northern side is bounded by the breakwaters of the existing Aberdeen South Typhoon Shelter of about 26 hectares (ha) which were constructed in the 1960s.  Its southern side is facing East Lamma Channel. The Project boundary encompasses about 46 ha and includes expansion of ATS from its southern part to provide extra sheltered space of about 24 ha (including passageways) for local vessels, as indicated on the Project boundary and layout plan in Figure 1.1.

1.2.2           The major works items for the Project includes the following:

(i)        Proposed eastern breakwater, approximately 340 metre (m) in length, pointing to southwest with about 50 m tip bending southward, with open space and proposed marine access in form of public landing facilities (i.e. landing steps / ramp) and associated seabed stabilisation works;

(ii)       Proposed western breakwater, approximately 300 m in length, pointing to northeast with about 85 m tip bending northward, with landing facilities for maintenance purpose and associated seabed stabilisation works;

(iii)     Proposed land access, approximately 240 m in length, connecting the proposed eastern breakwater to Tai Shue Wan waterfront along the rocky shoreline within the Project boundary;

(iv)     Proposed wave wall in the form of floating breakwater of about 110 m in length in the sea area within the ATS expansion area at a location approximately 70 m eastward of the tombolo between Yuk Kwai Shan and Ap Lei Pai;

(v)       Modification of the crest of existing eastern breakwater to form a new open space with pedestrian access to Shum Wan Road; and

(vi)     Modification of the existing western breakwaters, which includes shortening of the breakwater by approximately 70 m with a view to straightening the navigation channel.

1.2.3           The detailed design of the proposed breakwaters, wave wall in the form of floating breakwater, land access, modifications of the existing breakwaters, and other design elements are subject to further refinements.

1.3                Purpose of this Manual

1.3.1           The purpose of this Environmental Monitoring and Audit (EM&A) Manual is to guide the setups of an EM&A programme to ensure compliance with the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) study recommendations, to assess the effectiveness of the recommended mitigation measures and to identify any further need for additional mitigation measures or remedial action.  This Manual outlines the monitoring and audit programme for the construction and operation phases of the Project.  It aims to provide systematic procedures for monitoring, auditing and minimising environmental impacts associated with construction works and operational activities.

1.3.2           Hong Kong environmental regulations have served as environmental standards and guidelines in the preparation of this Manual.  In addition, the EM&A Manual has been prepared in accordance with the requirements stipulated in Annex 21 of the Technical Memorandum on Environmental Impact Assessment Process (EIAO-TM).

1.3.3           This Manual contains the following information:

·       Responsibilities of the Contractor, the Engineer or Engineer’s Representative (ER), Environmental Team (ET) and Independent Environment Checker (IEC) with respect to the environmental monitoring and audit requirements during the course of the Project;

·       Project organisation for the EM&A works;

·       The basis for, and description of the broad approach underlying the EM&A programme;

·       An implementation schedule, summarising all recommended environmental mitigation measures with reference to the programme for their implementation including those identified at detailed design, contract preparation, construction and operation stages of the Project;

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

·       The rationale on which the environmental monitoring data will be evaluated and interpreted;

·       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 non-compliance with the environmental criteria and complaints; and

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

1.3.4           For the purpose of this Manual, the ET Leader, who shall be responsible for and in charge of the ET, shall refer to the person delegated the role of executing the EM&A requirements.

1.4                Project Organisation

1.4.1           The roles and responsibilities of the various parties involved in the EM&A process and the organisational structure of the organisations responsible for implementing the EM&A programme are outlined below.  The proposed project organisation and lines of communication with respect to EM&A works are shown in Appendix A.

Engineer or Engineer’s Representative (ER)

1.4.2           The ER is responsible for overseeing the construction works and for ensuring that the works undertaken by the Contractor in accordance with the specification and contractual requirements.  The duties and responsibilities of the ER with respect to EM&A may include:

·       Supervise the Contractor’s activities and ensure that the requirements in the EM&A Manual are fully complied with;

·       Inform the Contractor when action is required to reduce impacts in accordance with the Event and Action Plans;

·       Participate in joint site inspection undertaken by the ET; and

·       Adhere to the procedures for carrying out complaint investigation.

The Contractor

1.4.3           The Contractor shall report to the ER.  The duties and responsibilities of the Contractor comprise the following:

·       Work within the scope of the contract and other tender conditions with respect to environmental requirements;

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

·       Provide assistance to ET in carrying out monitoring and auditing;

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

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

·       Submit proposals on mitigation measures in case of exceedance of Action and Limit levels in accordance with the Event / Action Plans;

·       Implement measures to reduce impact where Action and Limit levels are exceeded; and

·       Adhere to the procedures for carrying out complaint investigation.

Environmental Team (ET)

1.4.4           The ET Leader and the ET shall be employed to conduct the EM&A programme and ensure the Contractor’s compliance with the Project’s environmental performance requirements during construction.  The ET shall be an independent party from the Contractor and the IEC and shall be led and managed by the ET Leader. The ET Leader shall possess at least 7 years of experience in EM&A and/or environmental management and have relevant professional qualifications, or have sufficient relevant EM&A experience subject to approval of the ER and the Environmental Protection Department (EPD). 

1.4.5           The duties and responsibilities of the ET are:

·       Monitor various environmental parameters as required in this EM&A Manual;

·       Implement the EM&A programme;

·       Analyse the environmental monitoring and audit data and review the success of EM&A programme to cost-effectively confirm the adequacy of mitigation measures implemented and the validity of the EIA predictions and to identify any adverse environmental impacts arising;

·       Carry out regular site inspection to investigate and audit the Contractor's site practice, equipment and work methodologies with respect to pollution control and environmental mitigation, and effect proactive action to pre-empt problems; carry out ad hoc site inspections if significant environmental problems are identified;

·       Report to the Contractor of any potential non-compliance;

·       Follow up and close out non-compliance actions;

·       Audit and prepare monitoring and audit reports on the environmental monitoring data and site environmental conditions;

·       Report on the environmental monitoring and audit results to the IEC, Contractor, the ER and EPD or its delegated representative;

·       Recommend suitable mitigation measures to the Contractor in the case of exceedance of Action and Limit levels in accordance with the Event and Action Plans;

·       Advice to the Contractor on environmental improvement, awareness, enhancement matters, etc. on site;

·       Timely submission of the EM&A report to the Project Proponent and the EPD; and

·       Adhere to the procedures for carrying out complaint investigation in accordance with Section 10 of this Manual.

Independent Environmental Checker (IEC)

1.4.6           The IEC shall be an independent party from the Contractor and the ET and possess at least 7 years’ experience in EM&A and/or environmental management. The IEC shall report directly to the EPD on matters relating to the EM&A programme and environmental impacts from the Project.

1.4.7           The duties and responsibilities of the IEC are:

·       Review the EM&A works performed by the ET (at least at monthly intervals);

·       Carry out random sample check and audit the monitoring activities and results (at least at monthly intervals);

·       Validate and confirm the accuracy of monitoring results, monitoring equipment, monitoring locations, monitoring procedures and locations of sensitive receivers;

·       Report the audit results to the ER and EPD;

·       Conduct random site inspection;

·       Review the EM&A reports submitted by the ET;

·       Review the effectiveness of environmental mitigation measures and project environmental performance;

·       Review the proposal on mitigation measures submitted by the Contractor in accordance with the Event and Action Plans;

·       Check the mitigation measures that have been recommended in the EIA and this Manual, and ensure they are properly implemented in a timely manner, when necessary; and

·       Adhere to the procedures for carrying out complaint investigation.

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

1.5                Structure of the Manual

1.5.1           Following this introductory section, the remainder of the Manual is set out as follows:

·       Section 2 – Sets out EM&A requirement for air quality impact;

·       Section 3 – Sets out EM&A requirement for noise impact;

·       Section 4 – Sets out EM&A requirement for water quality impact;

·       Section 5 – Sets out EM&A requirement for waste management implications;

·       Section 6 – Sets out EM&A requirement for marine ecological impact;

·       Section 7 – Sets out EM&A requirement for fisheries impact;

·       Section 8 – Sets out EM&A requirement for landscape and visual impact;

·       Section 9 – Sets out EM&A requirement for cultural heritage impact;

·       Section 10 – Describes scope and frequency of environmental site audits and sets out the general requirements of the EM&A programme; and

·       Section 11 – Details the EM&A reporting requirements.

2                    Air Quality

2.1                Introduction

2.1.1           Potential air quality impacts arising from the construction phase of the Project were addressed in the EIA Report. The representative ASRs within the assessment area are presented in Figure 2.1. With implementation of the recommend control measures, no adverse air quality impact from the Project during construction phase would be anticipated.  Dust monitoring and audit is proposed to be conducted during construction so as to check compliance with the legislative requirements.

2.1.2           Regular site environmental audit at least once per week is recommended to be conducted during the entire construction phase of the Project so as to ensure the implementation of the proposed air quality mitigation measures stipulated in Air Pollution Control (Construction Dust) Regulation and Section 3.8 of the EIA report are in order.  Implementation schedule of mitigation measures is presented in Appendix B.

2.1.3           Potential air quality impact from operation of the Project were also assessed and no adverse impact would be anticipated during the operation phase of this Project. 

2.1.4           As no adverse air quality impacts from operation of the Project would be anticipated, monitoring and audit programme for the operation phase is considered unnecessary.

2.1.5           This section presents the requirements, methodology, equipment, monitoring locations, criteria and protocols for the monitoring and audit of air quality impact during the construction phase of the Project.

2.2                Monitoring Parameters

2.2.1           Air quality impact may arise from various construction activities of the Project, including filling for the proposed breakwater, construction of the proposed land access, as well as the modification of existing eastern and western breakwaters, and material handling to be undertaken within the Project boundary.  Therefore, 1-hour Total Suspended Particulates (TSP) concentrations, 1-hour and 24-hour average Respirable Suspended Particulate (RSP) concentrations, and 24-hour average Fine Suspended Particulate (FSP) concentration are recommended to be monitored and audited at the proposed monitoring locations during the construction phases.

2.2.2           The criteria against which ambient air quality monitoring to be assessed are 1-hour TSP limit of 500 µg/m3, 1-hour RSP action level of 150 µg/m3, 24-hour RSP limit of 100 µg/m3 and 24-hour FSP limit of 50 µg/m3. The 24-hour limits for FSP and 1-hour action level and 24-hour limit for RSP are subject to change based on the prevailing AQOs implemented at the time of the dust monitoring works. The limit levels are not to be exceeded at ASRs.

2.2.3           Monitoring and audit of the TSP, RSP and FSP levels shall be carried out by the ET to ensure that any deteriorating air quality could be readily detected and timely action shall be undertaken to rectify such situation.

2.2.4           All relevant data including temperature, pressure, weather conditions, and other special phenomena and work progress of the concerned site, etc., should be recorded down in detail.  A sample data sheet is shown in Appendix C1.

2.3                Monitoring Equipment

TSP monitoring

2.3.1           High volume sampler (HVS) in compliance with the following specifications should be used for carrying out the 1-hour TSP monitoring:

·       0.6 – 1.7 m3 per minute (20 – 60 standard cubic feet per minute) adjustable flow range;

·       equipped with a timing / control device with ± 5 minutes accuracy for 24 hours operation;

·       installed with elapsed-time meter with ± 2 minutes accuracy for 24 hours operation;

·       capable of providing a minimum exposed area of 406 cm2;

·       flow control accuracy: ± 2.5% deviation over 24-hour sampling period;

·       equipped with a shelter to protect the filter and sampler;

·       incorporated with an electronic mass flow rate controller or other equivalent devices;

·       equipped with a flow recorder for continuous monitoring;

·       provided with a peaked roof inlet;

·       incorporated with a manometer;

·       able to hold and seal the filter paper to the sampler housing at horizontal position;

·       easy to change the filter; and

·       capable of operating continuously for 24-hour period.

2.3.2           The ET is responsible for the provision, installation, operation, maintenance and dismantling of the instrument. The ET shall strictly follow the operation manual to ensure normal operation of the instrument.  He shall ensure that sufficient number of HVSs with appropriate calibration kit is available for carrying out the baseline, regular impacts monitoring and ad-hoc monitoring.  The HVSs shall be equipped with an electronic mass flow controller and be calibrated against a traceable standard at regular intervals, in accordance with requirements stated in the manufacturers operating manual.  All the equipment, calibration kit, filter papers, etc., shall be clearly labelled.  If the ET Leader proposes to use a direct reading dust meter to measure 1-hour TSP levels, he shall submit sufficient information to the IEC to prove that the instrument is capable of achieving a comparable result as that of the HVS before it may be used for the 1-hour sampling.  The instrument shall also be calibrated regularly, and the 1-hour sampling shall be determined periodically by HVS to check the validity and accuracy of the results measured by direct reading method,

2.3.3           Initial calibration of the air quality monitoring equipment shall be conducted upon installation and prior to commissioning at bi-monthly intervals.  The transfer standard shall be traceable to the internationally recognised primary standard and be calibrated annually.  The calibration data shall be properly documented for future reference by the concerned parties such as the IEC.  All the data shall be converted into standard temperature and pressure condition.

2.3.4           The flow-rate of the sampler before and after the sampling exercise with the filter in position shall be verified to be constant and be recorded on the data sheet as shown in Appendix C1.

RSP and FSP monitoring

2.3.5           RSP and FSP concentrations shall be monitored continuously by air sensor at monitoring stations specified in Section 2.5.  The air sensor to be employed shall meet the purpose of the monitoring which is 1-hour RSP, 24-hour RSP and 24-hour FSP concentrations in the ambient air. The air sensor shall have a resolution of at least 1 µg/m3, an accuracy of ± 10% to standard particles, equipped with a shelter to protect the sensor and capable of operating continuously for a 7 days period. It shall be capable of detection of PM10, while size specification would be optional subject to the environmental management strategy of the site. Particulates is typically measured using an optical approach where light scattered by a particle is used to estimate the particle mass concentration. The measurement range and detection limit of the air sensor shall be able to measure the full range of particulates commonly found in the ambient, e.g. 0 – 1000 µg/m3.  The accuracy of a sensor, in terms of precision and bias, shall also be evaluated during selection of air sensor, according to the manufacturer’s specification, evaluation reports and published literature. Whether the air sensor has calibrated upon purchase, when and how collocation shall be performed and how to correct the measurement shall be consulted with the sensor manufacturer and fully understood before the air monitoring. Other factors, such as response time, durability, enclosure, ease of use, power supply, any data display, data transmission, data access, data handling and cost shall also be considered when selecting air sensor.  Guidelines on the use of air sensor refer to The Enhanced Air Sensor Guidebook 2022, USEPA, or for further technical details at USEPA’s Air Sensor Toolbox website.

2.3.6           Generally, air sensors should be placed at least 1.5 m above ground and away from any obstruction, vegetation or emission source which would interfere with the measurement. Other factors of the monitoring location, such as security, availability of power supply, reliable communication (cellular, Wi-Fi, etc.), should also be considered

On-site Calibration and Quality Control

2.3.7           To ensure accuracy of the measurement, monitoring equipment, including the air sensors, should be calibrated regularly. The calibration should be conducted by collocating the air sensor and a Transfer Standard (TS).

2.3.8           A Transfer Standard (TS) is another particulate matter (PM) monitor that is at least as capable as the air sensor to be calibrated. Another sensor that has just been calibrated may serve the purpose provided its performance is known to be stable during the subsequent collocation period to be used as TS. Right before each on-site calibration, the TS itself needs to be calibrated e.g. collocating with an PM reference monitor - such as the Federal Reference Method (FRM) or the Federal Equivalent Method (FEM) PM monitor at the accredited laboratories or research institutes - that has been calibrated against traceable standard.  The TS/reference monitor collocation should last at least seven days.

2.3.9           The TS with known performance characteristics will visit and collocate with each air sensor for calibration. During collocation, the TS should be placed near the subject sensor (<1 m if practicable) so that both devices would be monitoring under the same environment, i.e. the same pollution sources and weather conditions. The TS is then turned on to warm-up for 30 – 60 minutes. The collocation period starts after the warm-up and TS is then left running with the subject sensor for at least three hours. The measurements from the sensor to be calibrated and the TS during the collocation period will be statistically analysed. The response of the sensor should be adjusted if its performance during on-site calibration does not meet the evaluation criteria as shown in Table 2.1.

Table 2.1  Recommended Performance Metrics and Target Values for On-site Checking of PM Monitoring Equipment

Performance Metric

Target Value

Tier 1 – Linear regression of minute average measurements

Bias

Slope

0.75 – 1.25

Linearity

Coefficient of Determination (R2)

>0.70

Tier 2 – Root mean squared error of minute average measurements

Error

Root Mean Squared Error (RMSE)

<8 µgm-3 for RSP and <5 μgm-3 for FSP

2.3.10        On-site calibration of the monitoring equipment shall be conducted by ET and agreed by IEC on the following approach:

•       Prepare a TS for PM monitoring, which has been calibrated against a PM reference monitor (i.e. the FRM or FEM PM monitor).

•       The inlets of the TS and the subject sensor shall be collocated at the same height with a horizontal separation distance of <1 m.

•       Warm-up the transfer standard on-site if necessary.

•       Collocated monitoring shall be conducted in a continuous period to collect at least 180 valid minute average measurements. The valid data rate shall be at least 80% during the collocation period.

•       The collected minute average measurement results should be statistically analysed using the two-tier approach as presented in Table 2.1.

2.3.11        During Tier 1 checking, linear regression of the minute average measurements from the sensors and the TS should be performed.  The slope and coefficient of determination (R2) from the linear regression should be calculated and meet the target values in Table 2.1. If these criteria are not met due to narrow range of PM concentration (>30 μg/m3 and >25 μg/m3 as recommended span range for RSP and FSP, respectively) during the collocation period, the Tier 2 checking on mean squared error shall be determined and compared against the target value in Table 2.1. If the monitoring equipment fails to meet both Tiers 1 and 2 target values, the monitoring equipment needs to be re-calibrated or replaced.

2.3.12        The collocated monitoring of TS and each air sensor on the field should be carried out every month. If a sensor failed in 3 consecutive collocated monitoring, the sensor should be checked or maintained to improve its performance, or it should be replaced.

Construction Dust Monitoring Plan

2.3.13        Before commencing the air monitoring, the ET should formulate a construction dust monitoring plan with air sensor and submit to IEC to seek their feedback and consent.  The plan should be aligned with the EM&A Manual and verified by IEC. The plan should include but not limited to the followings:

·      Details on the pollutants and environmental parameters to be monitored;

·      Describe the equipment and measurement method to be used;

·      Address the criteria for placing air sensors;

·      Discuss the monitoring locations selected and rationale;

·      Describe the criteria for selecting air sensors and test to determine if they are working properly;

·      Determine the collocation location and establish the calibration and/or collocation and data correction methods;

·      Identify types of data that may be used in the data analysis, including nearby reference monitor data, weather data, etc.

·      List the procedures to maintain and operate air sensors, including site visits, routine maintenance, emergency maintenance, daily data review, periodic collocations, etc.;

·      Describe the Quality Control (QC) procedures to be performed;

·      Describe how the data are processed, stored and adjusted;

·      Describe the ownership of the data and who is granted access to it;

·      Describe how the air monitoring data to be managed, tracing the path of data generation in the field to the final data use and end storage;

·      Describe the procedures to verify and validate data during collection period;

·      Describe the methods to produce meaningful figures and visualisation;

·      Describe how the monitoring results will be used.

2.3.14        The ET is responsible for the provision of the monitoring equipment and should provide sufficient number of air sensors for the field work and TS for carrying out continuous on-site monitoring and ad-hoc monitoring. 

Wind Data Monitoring Equipment

2.3.15        Wind data monitoring equipment shall also be provided and set up at conspicuous locations for logging wind speed and wind direction close to/or at the air quality monitoring locations. The equipment installation location shall be proposed by the ET and agreed with the ER and the IEC. For installation and operation of wind data monitoring equipment, the following points shall be observed.

·       The wind sensors shall be installed on masts at an elevated level 10 m above ground so that they are clear of obstructions or turbulence caused by the buildings;

·       The wind data shall be captured by a data logger. The data recorded in the data logger shall be downloaded for analysis simultaneously;

·       The wind data monitoring equipment shall be re-calibrated at least once every six months; and

·       Wind direction should be divided into 16 sectors of 22.5 degrees each.

2.3.16        In exceptional situations, the ET may propose alternative methods to obtain representative wind data upon approval from the ER and agreement from the IEC.

2.3.17        If the ET Leader proposes alternative dust monitoring equipment / methodology after the approval of this Manual, agreement from the IEC and EPD should be sought.  The instrument should also be calibrated regularly following the requirements specified by the equipment manufacturers. 

2.4                Laboratory Measurement / Analysis (For TSP Measurement only)

2.4.1           A clean laboratory with constant temperature and humidity control and equipped with necessary measuring and conditioning instruments to handle the dust samples collected, shall be available for sample analysis, and equipment calibration and maintenance.  The laboratory shall be the Hong Kong Laboratory Accreditation Scheme (HOKLAS) accredited or other internationally accredited laboratory.

2.4.2           If a site laboratory is set up or a non-HOKLAS accredited laboratory is hired for carrying out the laboratory analysis, the laboratory equipment shall be verified by the IEC and approved by the ER.  Measurement performed by the laboratory shall be demonstrated to the satisfaction of the ER and the IEC.

2.4.3           The IEC shall conduct regular audit of the measurement performed by the laboratory so as to ensure the accuracy of measurement results.  The ET shall provide the ER with one copy of the Title 40 of the Code of Federal Regulations, Chapter 1 (Part 50), Appendix B for his/her reference.

2.4.4           Filter paper of size 8"x10" shall be labelled before sampling.  It shall be a clean filter paper with no pinholes, and shall be conditioned in a humidity-controlled chamber for over 24-hour and be pre-weighed before use for the sampling.

2.4.5           After sampling, the filter paper loaded with dust shall be kept in a clean and tightly sealed plastic bag.  The filter paper shall then be returned to the laboratory for reconditioning in the humidity-controlled chamber followed by accurate weighing by an electronic balance with a readout down to 0.1 mg.  The balance shall be regularly calibrated against a traceable standard.

2.4.6           All the collected samples shall be kept in a good condition for 6 months before disposal.

2.5                Monitoring Locations

2.5.1           The selected monitoring locations are the worst potentially affected air sensitive receivers located in the vicinity of construction sites. The proposed air quality monitoring locations during construction phase are listed in Table 2.2 below and shown in Figure 2.2.

Table 2.2  Proposed Construction Air Quality Monitoring Stations

Monitoring Station ID

ASR ID in EIA Report

Location

Approximate Horizontal Distance from the Project Boundary (m)

AM1

A3a

Shipyards and workshops

208

AM2

A4

Shipyard and Temporary Industrial Area

75

AM3

A8

Water World Ocean Park

84

AM4

A10a

Fullerton Ocean Park Hotel

13

AM5

A10b

Fullerton Ocean Park Hotel

22

2.5.2           The status and locations of the air sensitive receivers may change after issuing this Manual.  In such case, the ET shall propose updated monitoring locations and seek approval from ER and IEC and agreement from EPD on the proposal. 

2.5.3           When alternative monitoring locations are proposed, the following criteria, as far as practicable, shall be followed:

·       at the site boundary or such locations close to the major site activities which are likely to have air quality impacts;

·       close to the air sensitive receivers as defined in the EIAO-TM;

·       assurance of minimal disturbance to the occupants and working under a safe condition during monitoring.

·       proper position/siting and orientation of the monitoring equipment; and

·       take into account the prevailing meteorological conditions.

2.5.4           The ET shall agree with the IEC on the position of the HVS and PM sensors for installation of the monitoring equipment. When positioning the HVS/the PM sensors, the following points shall be noted:

·       a horizontal platform with appropriate support to secure the HVS/the PM sensors against gusty wind shall be provided;

·       the distance between the HVS/the PM sensors and an obstacle, such as building, must be at least twice the height that the obstacle protrudes above the HVS/the PM sensors.

·       A minimum of 2 m separation from wall, parapets and penthouses is required for rooftops samplers;

·       A minimum of 2 m separation from any supporting structure, measure horizontally is required.

·       general housekeeping, cleaning works and other preventative maintenance activities such as checking the operating status of individual monitoring equipment should be carried out to ensure the proper operation of the system;

·       to ensure representative sampling, the inlet of the HVS/the PM sensors should not be obstructed by nearby objects;

·       any wire fence and gate, to protect the HVS/the PM sensors, shall not cause any obstruction during monitoring;

·       no furnace or incinerator flue is nearby;

·       airflow around the instrument is unrestricted;

·       permission must be obtained to set up the HVS/the PM sensors  and to obtain access to the monitoring stations; and

·       a secured supply of electricity is needed to operate the HVS/the PM sensors.

2.5.5           Subject to site conditions and monitoring results, the ET Leader, with IEC and EPD endorsement, may decide whether additional monitoring locations should be included or any monitoring locations could be removed / relocated during the construction phase.

2.6                Baseline Monitoring (for TSP only)

2.6.1           Baseline monitoring shall be carried out to determine the ambient 1-hour TSP levels at the monitoring locations at least 14 consecutive days prior to the commencement of the Project. During the baseline monitoring, there shall not be any construction or dust generating activities in the vicinity of the monitoring stations. 1-hour TSP sampling shall be done at least three times per day at each monitoring station. The baseline monitoring will provide data for the determination of the appropriate Action levels with the Limit levels set against statutory or otherwise agreed limits. General meteorological conditions (wind speed, direction and precipitation) and notes regarding any significant adjacent dust producing sources should also be recorded throughout the baseline monitoring period.  A summary of baseline monitoring is presented in Table 2.3.

2.6.2           Before commencing the baseline monitoring, the ET shall inform the IEC of the baseline monitoring programme such that the IEC can conduct on-site audit to ensure accuracy of the baseline monitoring results.

2.6.3           In case the baseline monitoring cannot be carried out at the designated monitoring locations during the baseline monitoring period, the ET Leader shall carry out the monitoring at alternative locations which can effectively represent the baseline conditions at the impact monitoring locations.  The alternative baseline monitoring location shall be approved by the ER and agreed with IEC and approved by EPD.

2.6.4           In exceptional cases, when insufficient baseline monitoring data or questionable results are obtained, the ET Leader shall liaise with the IEC and EPD to agree on an appropriate set of data to be used as a baseline reference and submit to ER for approval.

2.6.5           If the ET Leader considers that significant changes in the ambient conditions have arisen, a repeat of the baseline monitoring may be carried out to update the baseline levels.  The monitoring should be at times when the Contractor's activities are not generating dust, at least in the proximity of the monitoring stations.  The revised baseline levels, in turn, the air quality criteria, shall be agreed with the IEC and EPD.

2.7                Impact Monitoring (for TSP, RSP and FSP)

2.7.1           During construction phase of the Project, the ET shall carry out continuous impact monitoring in terms of 1-hour TSP concentration. The sampling frequency of at least three times in every six-days should be undertaken when the highest dust impact occurs.  In case of non-compliance with the air criteria, more frequent monitoring, as specified in the Action Plan in the following section, should be conducted. The additional monitoring programme should be continued until the excessive emission or the deterioration in the air quality is rectified. The impact monitoring programme is summarised in Table 2.3.

Table 2.3  Summary of Construction Air Quality Impact Monitoring Programme

Monitoring Period

Duration

Sampling Parameter

Frequency

Baseline Monitoring

Consecutive days of at least 2 weeks before commencement of major construction works

1-hour TSP

3 times per day

Impact Monitoring

Throughout the construction phase

1-hour TSP

3 times in every 6 days

Impact Monitoring

Throughout the construction phase

1-hour RSP

Continuous monitoring

Impact Monitoring

Throughout the construction phase

24-hour RSP

Continuous monitoring

Impact Monitoring

Throughout the construction phase

24-hour FSP

Continuous monitoring

2.7.2           The monthly schedule of the compliance and impact monitoring programme should be drawn up by the ET one month prior to the commencement of the scheduled construction period. Before commencing the impact monitoring, the ET shall inform the IEC of the impact monitoring programme such that the IEC can conduct on-site audit to ensure accuracy of the impact monitoring results.

2.7.3           For 1-hour average RSP concentration, 24-hour rolling average RSP concentration and 24-hour rolling average FSP concentration, continuous monitoring will be carried out by air sensors throughout the construction phase of the Project.

2.8                Event and Action Plan

2.8.1           The baseline monitoring results form the basis for determining the air quality criteria for the impact monitoring for TSP. The ET shall compare the impact monitoring results with air quality criteria set up for 1-hour TSP, 1-hour RSP, 24-hour RSP and 24-hour FSP. Table 2.4 shows the air quality criteria, namely Action and Limit levels to be used. Should non-compliance of the air quality criteria occur, action in accordance with the Action Plan in Table 2.5 (for TSP monitoring) and Table 2.6 (for RSP and FSP monitoring) shall be carried out. The action and limit level may subject to change based on the prevailing AQOs implemented at the time of the monitoring works.

Table 2.4  Action and Limit Levels for Construction Air Quality Impact

Parameter

Action Level

Limit Level

1-hour TSP

BL <= 384 µgm-3, AL = (BL * 1.3 + LL)/2

BL > 384 µgm-3, AL = LL

500 µg/m3

1-hour RSP

150 µg/m3

Not Applicable

24-hour RSP (rolling average) 

Not Applicable

100 µg/m3

24-hour FSP

(rolling average)

Not Applicable

50 µg/m3

Note:

[1] BL = Baseline level, AL = Action level, LL = Limit level

Table 2.5  Event and Action Plan for Construction Air Quality Impact (TSP monitoring)

Event

Action

ET

IEC

ER

Contractor

Action level being exceeded by one sampling

1.      Identify source, investigate the causes of complaint and propose remedial measures;

2.      Inform Contractor, IEC and ER;

3.      Repeat measurement to confirm finding; and

4.      Increase monitoring frequency to daily.

1.      Check monitoring data submitted by ET;

2.      Check Contractor’s working method; and

3.      Review and advise the ET and ER on the effectiveness of the proposed remedial measures.

 

1.      Notify Contractor.

 

1.      Identify source(s), investigate the causes of exceedance and propose remedial measures;

2.      Implement remedial measures; and

3.      Amend working methods agreed with the ER as appropriate

 

Action level being exceeded by two or more consecutive sampling

1.      Identify source;

2.      Inform Contractor, IEC and ER;

3.      Advise the Contractor and ER on the effectiveness of the proposed remedial measures;

4.      Repeat measurements to confirm findings;

5.      Increase monitoring frequency to daily;

6.      Discuss with IEC and Contractor on remedial actions required;

7.      If exceedance continues, arrange meeting with Contractor, IEC and ER; and

8.      If exceedance stops, cease additional monitoring.

1.      Check monitoring data submitted by ET;

2.      Check Contractor’s working method;

3.      Discuss with ET, ER and Contractor on possible remedial measures;

4.      Advise the ET and ER on the effectiveness of the proposed remedial measures; and

5.      Supervise implementation of remedial measures.

1.      Confirm receipt of notification of exceedance in writing;

2.      Notify Contractor;

3.      Ensure remedial measures properly implemented.

 

1.      Identify source and investigate the causes of exceedance;

2.      Submit proposals for remedial measures to the ER with a copy to ET and IEC within three working days of notification;

3.      Implement the agreed proposals; and

4.      Amend proposal as appropriate.

 

Limit level being exceeded by one sampling

1.      Identify source, investigate the causes of exceedance and propose remedial measures;

2.      Inform Contractor, IEC, ER, and EPD;

3.      Repeat measurement to confirm findings;

4.      Increase monitoring frequency to daily; and

5.      Assess effectiveness of Contractor’s remedial actions and keep IEC, EPD and ER informed of the results.

1.      Check monitoring data submitted by ET;

2.      Check Contractor’s working method;

3.      Discuss with ET and Contractor on possible remedial measures;

4.      Advise the ER on the effectiveness of the proposed remedial measures; and

5.      Supervise implementation of remedial measures.

 

1.      Confirm receipt of notification of exceedance in writing;

2.      Notify Contractor;

3.      Ensure remedial measures properly implemented.

 

1.      Identify source(s) and investigate the causes of exceedance;

2.      Take immediate action to avoid further exceedance;

3.      Submit proposals for remedial measures to ER with a copy to ET and IEC within three working days of notification;

4.      Implement the agreed proposals; and

5.      Amend proposal if appropriate.

Limit level being exceeded by two or more consecutive sampling

1.      Notify IEC, ER, Contractor and EPD;

2.      Identify source;

3.      Repeat measurement to confirm findings;

4.      Increase monitoring frequency to daily;

5.      Carry out analysis of Contractor’s working procedures to determine possible mitigation to be implemented;

6.      Arrange meeting with IEC and ER to discuss the remedial actions to be taken;

7.      Assess effectiveness of Contractor’s remedial actions and keep IEC, EPD and ER informed of the results; and

8.      If exceedance stops, cease additional monitoring.

1.      Check monitoring data submitted by the ET;

2.      Discuss amongst ER, ET, and Contractor on the potential remedial actions;

3.      Review Contractor’s remedial actions whenever necessary to assure their effectiveness and advise the ER accordingly; and

4.      Supervise the implementation of remedial measures.

1.      Confirm receipt of notification of exceedance in writing;

2.      In consultation with the ET and IEC, agree with the Contractor on the remedial measures to be implemented;

3.      Supervise the implementation of remedial measures; and

4.      If exceedance continues, consider what portion of the work is responsible and instruct the Contractor to stop that portion of work until the exceedance is abated.

1.      Identify source(s) and investigate the causes of exceedance;

2.      Take immediate action to avoid further exceedance;

3.      Submit proposals for remedial measures to the ER with a copy to the IEC and ET within three working days of notification;

4.      Implement the agreed proposals;

5.      Revise and resubmit proposals if problem still not under control; and

6.      Stop the relevant portion of works as determined by the ER until the exceedance is abated.

Table 2.6  Event and Action Plan for Construction Air Quality Impact (RSP and FSP monitoring)

Event

Action

ET

IEC

ER

Contractor

Action level being exceeded by one sample

1.      Notify IEC and ER;

2.      Check the monitoring data and error messages to confirm if the performance of the monitoring equipment is normal;

3.      If exceedance is confirmed, identify source(s), investigate the causes of exceedance and propose remedial measures;

4.      Assess effectiveness of Contractor’s remedial measures and keep IEC and ER informed of the results until exceedance stops.

1.      Check monitoring data submitted by ET;

2.      Check Contractor’s working method;

3.      Discuss with ET, ER and Contractor on possible remedial measures;

4.      Advise ER and ET on the effectiveness of the proposed remedial measures;

5.      Supervise implementation of remedial measures.

 

1.      Confirm receipt of notification of exceedance in writing;

2.      Notify Contractor;

3.      In consultation with IEC and ET, agree with the Contractor on the remedial measures to be implemented;

4.      Ensure remedial measures are properly implemented.

1.      Identify sources of exceedance and discuss with ER, ET and IEC on possible remedial measures;

2.      Implement remedial measures;

3.      Amend working methods if appropriate.

 

 

Action level exceedance for two or more consecutive samples

1.      Notify IEC and ER;

2.      Check the monitoring data and the performance of the monitoring equipment (refer to Section 2.3.10 and Table 2.1);

3.      If exceedance is confirmed, identify source(s), investigate the causes of exceedance and propose remedial measures;

4.      Discuss with IEC and Contractor on possible remedial measures required;

5.      Assess effectiveness of Contractor’s remedial measures and keep IEC and ER informed of the results until exceedance stops.

6.      Notify EPD if the exceedance is confirmed to be related to the Project.

1.      Check monitoring data submitted by ET;

2.      Check Contractor’s working method and verify the performance of the monitoring equipment to be checked by ET (refer to Section 2.3.10 and Table 2.1);

3.      Discuss with ET and Contractor on possible remedial measures;

4.      Advise ER and ET on the effectiveness of the proposed remedial measures;

5.     Supervise implementation of remedial measures.

1.      Confirm receipt of notification of exceedance in writing;

2.      Notify Contractor;

3.      In consultation with IEC and ET, agree with the Contractor on the proposal for remedial measures to be implemented;

4.      Ensure the proposal for remedial measures are properly implemented.

1.      Identify the sources and discuss with ER, ET and IEC on possible remedial measures;

2.      Submit a proposal for remedial measures to ER, IEC and ET within 2 working days of notification of exceedance for agreement;

3.      Implement the agreed proposal;

4.      Amend proposal if appropriate.

Limit level exceedance for one 24-hr rolling average RSP concentration record or/and one 24-hr rolling average FSP concentration record

1.      Notify IEC, ER, Contractor and EPD;

2.      Check the monitoring data and the performance of the monitoring equipment (refer to Section 2.3.10 and Table 2.1);

3.      If exceedance is confirmed, identify source(s), investigate the causes of exceedance and propose remedial measures;

4.      Discuss with IEC, ER and Contractor on possible remedial measures required;

5.      Assess effectiveness of Contractor’s remedial measures and keep IEC and ER informed of the results until exceedance stops.

6.      Notify EPD if the exceedance is confirmed to be related to the Project.

1.      Check monitoring data submitted by ET;

2.      Check Contractor’s working method; and verify the performance of the monitoring equipment to be checked by ET (refer to Section 2.3.10 and Table 2.1);

3.      Discuss with ER, ET and Contractor on the possible remedial measures;

4.      Advise ER and ET on the effectiveness of the proposed remedial measures;

5.      Review Contractor’s remedial measures whenever necessary to assure their effectiveness and advise ER and ET accordingly;

6.      Supervise the implementation of remedial measures

1.      Confirm receipt of notification of exceedance in writing;

2.      Notify Contractor;

3.      In consultation with the IEC and ET, agree with the Contractor on the proposal for remedial measures to be implemented;

4.      Ensure the proposal for remedial measures are properly implemented;

5.      If exceedance continues, identify what portion of the work is responsible and instruct the Contractor to stop that portion of work until the exceedance is abated.

1.      Identify the sources and discuss with ER, ET and IEC on possible remedial measures;

2.      Take immediate action to avoid further exceedance;

3.      Submit a proposal for remedial measures to ER, IEC and ET within 2 working days of notification of exceedance for agreement;

4.      Implement the agreed proposal;

5.      Review and resubmit proposals if the problem is still not under control;

6.     Stop the relevant portion of works as determined by ER until the exceedance is abated.

2.9                Mitigation Measures

2.9.1           Mitigation measures for construction phase air quality impact have been recommended in the EIA Report.  All the recommended mitigation measures are detailed in the implementation schedule presented in Appendix B.  The Contractor shall be responsible for the design and implementation of these measures.

2.10             Audit Requirements

2.10.1        Regular site inspection and audit at least once per week shall be conducted during the entire construction phase of the Project to ensure the recommended mitigation measures are properly implemented.

3                    Noise

3.1                Introduction

3.1.1           The EIA has identified and assessed the potential noise impacts during both construction and operation phase of the Project. Construction noise mitigation measures and good site practices have been proposed to minimise the potential construction noise levels. A noise monitoring and audit programme should be undertaken to confirm such mitigation measures would be implemented properly.

3.1.2           For marine traffic noise impact, the predicted marine traffic noise level at identified NSR N1[1] is expected to be well below the prevailing noise level and comply with the established noise criteria in the absence of mitigation measures and adverse noise impact is not anticipated.

3.1.3           In this section, the requirements, methodology, equipment, monitoring locations, criteria and protocols for the monitoring and audit of noise impacts during construction phase of the Project are presented.

3.2                General Monitoring Requirement and Equipment

3.2.1           As referred to in the Technical Memorandum (TM) issued under the Noise Control Ordinance (NCO), sound level meters in compliance with the International Electrotechnical Commission Publications 651: 1979 (Type 1) and 804:1985 (Type 1) specifications 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 and generating a known sound pressure level at a known frequency. Measurements shall be accepted as valid only if the calibration level from before and after the noise measurement agree to within 1.0 dB.

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

3.2.3           The ET is responsible for the provision of the monitoring equipment. He shall ensure that sufficient noise measuring equipment and associated instrumentation are available for carrying out the baseline monitoring, regular impact monitoring and ad hoc monitoring. All the equipment and associated instrumentation shall be clearly labelled. The equipment installation location shall be proposed by the ET Leader and agreed with the IEC and EPD.

3.2.4           The noise monitoring station shall normally be at a point 1 m from the exterior of the sensitive receivers building façade and be a position 1.2 m above the ground. If there is a problem with access to the normal monitoring position, an alternative position shall be chosen, and a correction to the measurements shall be made. For reference, a correction of +3 dB(A) shall be made to the free field measurements. The ET shall agree with the IEC on the monitoring position and the corrections adopted. Once the positions for the monitoring stations are chosen, the baseline monitoring and the impact monitoring shall be carried out at the same positions.

3.3                Monitoring Parameters

3.3.1           The construction noise levels should be measured in terms of the 30-minute A-weighted equivalent continuous sound pressure level (Leq (30-min)). Leq (30-min) should be used as the monitoring parameter for the time period between 0700 and 1900 hours on normal weekdays.

3.3.2           Supplementary information for data auditing and statistical results such as L10 and L90 should also be obtained for reference. Sample noise field data sheets are shown in Appendix C2 of this Manual for reference. The ET Leader may modify the data record sheet for this EM&A programme but the format of which should be agreed by the IEC.

3.4                Monitoring Locations

3.4.1           Based on the qualitative construction noise assessment in the EIA Report, adverse construction noise impact associated with the Project is not anticipated with the implementation of the recommended mitigation measures and good site practices. Figure 3.1 shows the proposed construction phase noise monitoring station. Details of the proposed noise monitoring station is summarised in Table 3.1.

Table 3.1  Proposed Noise Monitoring stations during Construction Phase of the Project

Noise Monitoring Point

EIA ID

Location

Monitoring Period

CM1

N1

Tower 1, Larvotto

Works at existing eastern breakwater during non-restricted hours

3.4.2           The status and locations of noise sensitive receivers (NSRs) may change after issuing this Manual.  If such cases exist, the ET shall propose updated monitoring locations and seek approval from the IEC and agreement from EPD of the proposal.

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

i.            at locations close to the major site activities which are likely to have noise impacts;

ii.          close to the NSRs; and

iii.        for monitoring locations located in the vicinity of the sensitive receivers, care shall be taken to cause minimal disturbance to the occupants during monitoring.

3.5                Baseline Monitoring

3.5.1           Baseline noise monitoring shall be carried out daily at all of the proposed monitoring stations for at least 2 weeks prior to the commissioning of the construction works.  A schedule of the baseline monitoring shall be approved by the IEC before the monitoring starts.

3.5.2           During the baseline monitoring, there shall not be any construction activities in the vicinity of the monitoring stations.

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

3.6                Impact Monitoring

3.6.1           Construction noise monitoring should be carried out at the designated monitoring station when there are Project-related construction activities being undertaken within a radius of 300 m from the monitoring stations. The monitoring frequency should depend on the scale of the construction activities. An initial guide on the monitoring is to obtain one set of 30-minute measurement at each station between 0700 and 1900 hours on normal weekdays at a frequency of once a week when construction activities are underway.

3.6.2           If construction works are extended to include works during the hours of 1900 - 0700, and/or percussive piling is be carried out, applicable permits under NCO shall be obtained by the Contractor. The monitoring requirements and conditions stipulated in the permits have to be followed.

3.6.3           In case of non-compliance with the construction noise criteria, more frequent monitoring, as specified in the Action Plan in Table 3.3 shall be carried out. This additional monitoring shall be continued until the recorded noise levels are rectified or proved to be irrelevant to the construction activities.

3.7                Event and Action Plan

3.7.1           The Action and Limit levels for construction noise are defined in Table 3.2.  Should non-compliance of the criteria occur, action in accordance with the Action Plan in Table 3.3 shall be carried out.

Table 3.2  Action and Limit Levels for Construction Noise

Time Period

Action Level

Limit Level

0700 – 1900 hours
on normal weekdays

When one documented complaint is received

75 dB(A)

Notes:

If works are to be carried out during restricted hours and/or percussive piling is be carried out, the monitoring requirements and the conditions stipulated in the Construction Noise Permit (CNP) issued by the Noise Control Authority have to be followed.

Table 3.3  Event and Action Plan for Construction Noise

Event

Action

ET

IEC

ER

Contractor

Action Level

1.      Notify IEC and Contractor;

2.      Carry out investigation;

3.      Report the results of investigation to the IEC, ER and Contractor;

4.      Discuss with the Contractor and formulate remedial measures; and

5.      Increase monitoring frequency to check mitigation effectiveness.

1.      Review the analysed results submitted by the ET;

2.      Review the proposed remedial measures by the Contractor and advise the ER accordingly; and

3.      Supervise the implementation of remedial measures.

1.      Confirm receipt of notification of failure in writing;

2.      Notify Contractor;

3.      Require Contractor to propose remedial measures for the analysed noise problem; and

4.      Ensure remedial measures are properly implemented.

1.      Submit noise mitigation proposals to IEC; and

2.      Implement noise mitigation proposals.

Limit Level

1.      Identify source;

2.      Inform IEC, ER, EPD and Contractor;

3.      Repeat measurements to confirm findings;

4.      Increase monitoring frequency;

5.      Carry out analysis of Contractor’s working procedures to determine possible mitigation to be implemented;

6.      Inform IEC, ER and EPD the causes and actions taken for the exceedances;

7.      Assess effectiveness of Contractor’s remedial actions and keep IEC, EPD and ER informed of the results; and

8.      If exceedance stops, cease additional monitoring.

1.      Discuss amongst ER, ET, and Contractor on the potential remedial actions;

2.      Review Contractors remedial actions whenever necessary to assure their effectiveness and advise the ER accordingly; and

3.      Supervise the implementation of remedial measures.

1.      Confirm receipt of notification of failure in writing;

2.      Notify Contractor;

3.      Require Contractor to propose remedial measures for the analysed noise problem;

4.      Ensure remedial measures properly implemented; and

5.      If exceedance continues, consider what portion of the work is responsible and instruct the Contractor to stop that portion of work until the exceedance is abated.

1.      Take immediate action to avoid further exceedance;

2.      Submit proposals for remedial actions to IEC  within 3 working days of notification;

3.      Implement the agreed proposals;

4.      Resubmit proposals if problem still not under control; and

5.      Stop the relevant portion of works as determined by the ER until the exceedance is abated.

3.8                Mitigation Measures

Construction Phase

3.8.1           To minimise the potential construction noise impact on the affected NSR, quieter PME/quieter construction methods would be adopted where feasible including use of quieter PME (e.g. generator), quieter construction method for demolition works of existing breakwater (e.g. quieter saw and hydraulic crusher), use of self-compacting concrete for concreting work to replace use of vibratory poker and pre-cast columns and decking for construction of potential access. Mitigation measures including adopting movable noise barriers, temporary noise barriers are also recommended.

3.8.2           In addition to the above construction noise mitigation measures, good site practices listed below and the noise control requirements stated in EPD’s “Recommended Pollution Control Clauses for Construction Contracts” should be included in the Contract Specification for the Contractor to follow and implemented to further minimise the potential noise impacts during the construction phase of the Project:

·       Only well-maintained plant should be operated on-site and plant should be serviced regularly;

·       Utilising silencers or mufflers on construction plant;

·       Mobile plant should be located as far away from NSRs as possible;

·       Plant that are in intermittent use should be shut down between works periods or throttled down to a minimum;

·       Plant known to emit noise strongly in one direction should, where possible, be orientated so that the noise is directed away from the nearby NSRs;

·       Material stockpiles and other structures such as site hoarding should be effectively utilised to screen noise from on-site construction activities; and

·       Appropriate traffic routes for transportation of large volume of construction materials/spoils/excavated materials should be identified to minimise potential noise impacts.

3.8.3           It is recommended that Construction Noise Management Plan (CNMP) should be prepared based on the best available information and checked before the invitation of tender and the commencement of construction works, subject to the contract arrangement of the Project and agreement with EPD.

3.8.4           The implementation schedule of the good site practices is presented in Appendix B.

3.9                Audit Requirements

3.9.1           Regular site environmental audit during the construction phase of the Project should be conducted at least once per week to ensure proper implementation of mitigation measures and good site practices as listed in Appendix B and the noise control requirements stated in EPD’s "Recommended Pollution Control Clauses for Construction Contracts” to further minimise the potential noise nuisance during construction phase.

4                    Water Quality

4.1                Introduction

4.1.1           As identified in the EIA Report, release of suspended sediment is identified as the key water quality parameter caused by dredging, sand blanket filling and deep cement mixing (DCM) installation.  Marine water quality monitoring is recommended to ensure that any unacceptable increase in suspended solids/turbidity and decrease in dissolved oxygen due to the identified marine construction works could be readily detected and timely action be taken to rectify the situation.

4.2                Water Quality Parameters

4.2.1           Dissolved oxygen (DO), turbidity and suspended solids (SS) levels should be monitored at designated marine water quality monitoring stations during the dredging, sand blanket filling and DCM installation.  DO and turbidity should be measured in-situ whereas SS should be determined by laboratory.

4.2.2           Measurements shall be taken at three water depths, including 1 m below water surface, mid-depth and 1 m above seabed, except where the water depth is less than 6 m, in which case the mid-depth station may be omitted.  If the water depth is less than 3 m, only the mid-depth station will be monitored.

4.2.3           Enough replicates in-situ measurements and water samples collected from each independent monitoring event are required for all parameters to ensure a robust statistically interpretable dataset.

4.2.4           In addition to the water quality parameters as shown in Section 4.2.1, other relevant data shall also be recorded, including monitoring location/position, time, water depth, pH value, salinity, temperature, tidal stages, current velocity and direction, sea conditions, weather conditions and any special phenomena or work activities undertaken around the monitoring and works area that may influence the monitoring results.  A sample data record sheet is shown in Appendix C3 for reference.

4.3                Sampling Procedures and Monitoring Equipment

Dissolved Oxygen and Temperature Measuring Equipment

4.3.1           The instrument shall be a portable and weatherproof DO measuring instrument complete with cable and sensor, and use a DC power source.  The equipment shall be capable of measuring:

·       a DO level in the range of 0 - 20 mg L-1 and 0 - 200% saturation; and

·       a temperature of 0 - 45 degree Celsius.

4.3.2           It shall have a membrane electrode with automatic temperature compensation complete with a cable.  Sufficient stocks of spare electrodes and cables shall be available for replacement where necessary.  For example, YSI model 59 meter, YSI 5739 probe, YSI 5795A submersible stirrer with reel and cable or an approved similar instrument.

4.3.3           Shall salinity compensation not be built-in to the DO equipment, in-situ salinity shall be measured to calibrate the DO equipment prior to each DO measurement.

Turbidity Measurement Instrument

4.3.4           Turbidity shall be measured in-situ by the nephelometric method.  The instrument shall be portable and weatherproof turbidity measuring instrument using a DC power source complete with cable, sensor and comprehensive operation manuals.  It shall have a photoelectric sensor capable of measuring turbidity between 0 - 1000 NTU (for example, Hach model 2100P or an approved similar instrument).  The cable shall not be less than 25 m in length.  The meter shall be calibrated to establish the relationship between NTU units and the levels of suspended solids.

Sampler

4.3.5           A water sampler is required.  It shall comprise a transparent Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) cylinder, with a capacity of not less than 2 litres, which can be effectively sealed with latex cups at both ends.  The sampler shall have a positive latching system to keep it open and prevent premature closure until released by a messenger when the sampler is at the selected water depth (for example, Kahlsico Water Sampler or an approved similar instrument).

Water Depth Detector

4.3.6           A portable, battery-operated echo sounder shall be used for the determination of water depth at each designated monitoring station.  This unit can either be handheld or affixed to the bottom of the work boat, if the same vessel is to be used throughout the monitoring programme.

Salinity

4.3.7           A portable salinometer capable of measuring salinity in the range of 0 - 40 parts per thousand (ppt) shall be provided for measuring salinity of the water at each monitoring location.

pH

4.3.8           The instrument shall consist of a potentiometer, a glass electrode, a reference electrode and a temperature-compensating device.  It shall be readable to 0.1 pH in a range of 0 to 14.  Standard buffer solutions of at least pH 7 and pH 10 shall be used for calibration of the instrument before and after use.  Details of the method shall comply with American Public Health Association (APHA), 19th ed. 4500-HTB.

Sample Containers and Storage

4.3.9           Water samples shall be stored in high density polythene bottles with no preservative added, packed in ice (cooled to 4 ℃ without being frozen) and delivered to the laboratory and analysed as soon as possible after collection.  Sufficient volume of samples shall be collected to achieve the required detection limit.

Monitoring Position Equipment

4.3.10        A hand-held or boat-fixed type digital Differential Global Positioning System (DGPS) with way point bearing indication or other equipment instrument of similar accuracy, shall be provided and used during marine water monitoring to ensure the monitoring vessel is at the correct location before taking measurements.

Current Velocity and Direction

4.3.11        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.

Calibration of In-situ Instruments

4.3.12        All in-situ monitoring instruments shall be checked, calibrated and certified by a laboratory accredited under HOKLAS or any other international accreditation scheme before use and subsequently re-calibrated at three monthly intervals throughout all stages of the water quality monitoring programme.  Responses of sensors and electrodes shall be checked with certified standard solutions before each use.  Wet bulb calibration for a DO meter shall be carried out before measurement at each monitoring location.

4.3.13        Sufficient stocks of spare parts shall be maintained for replacements when necessary.  Backup monitoring equipment shall also be made available so that monitoring can proceed uninterrupted even when some equipment is under maintenance, calibration, etc.

4.4                Laboratory Measurement / Analysis

4.4.1           Analysis of SS level shall be carried out in a HOKLAS or other international accredited laboratory.  Sufficient water samples shall be collected at the monitoring stations for carrying out the necessary laboratory analysis.  The analysis shall commence within 24 hours after collection of the water samples.  The analyses shall follow the standard methods described in APHA Standard Methods for the Examination of Water and Wastewater, 19th edition or other approved methods.  Detailed testing methods, pre-treatment procedures, instrument use, Quality Assurance/Quality Control (QA/QC) details (such as blank, spike recovery, number of duplicate samples per batch, etc.), detection limits and accuracy shall be submitted to EPD for approval prior to the commencement of monitoring programme.  EPD may also request the laboratory to carry out analysis of known standards provided by EPD for quality assurance.  Additional duplicate samples may be required by EPD for inter laboratory calibration.  Remaining samples after analysis shall be kept by the laboratory for 3 months in case repeat analysis is required.  If in-house or non-standard methods are proposed, details of the method verification may also be required to submit to EPD.  In any circumstance, the sample testing shall have comprehensive quality assurance and quality control programmes.  The laboratory shall prepare to demonstrate the programmes to EPD or his representatives when requested.

4.5                Water Quality Monitoring Stations

4.5.1           It is recommended to establish control and impact monitoring stations to monitor water quality impact during construction phase.  Four impact monitoring stations in vicinity to the construction site have been selected that may potentially be affected during the construction phase.  Two control stations have been selected such that they are located within the same water body as the impact monitoring stations but are located outside the area of influence of the works.  Data collected from the control stations enables a comparison of the water quality at the potentially impacted site with the ambient water quality.  The proposed water quality monitoring stations are shown in Table 4.1.  Figure 4.1 indicates the approximate locations of the water quality monitoring stations.

Table 4.1  Proposed Marine Water Quality Stations for Baseline and Impact Monitoring

Monitoring Station

ID in EIA Report

Description

Easting (m)

Northing (m)

WC1

-

Control Station - Flood Tide

835 792

809 602

WC2

-

Control Station - Ebb Tide

834 745

811 082

WM1

CR9

Coral Communities - Tai Shue Wan

(Impact Monitoring Station)

835 121

810 680

WM2

CR8

Coral Communities - South of Tai Shue Wan (Impact Monitoring Station)

835 194

810 391

WM3

CR7

Coral Communities - Sam Shui Kok

(Impact Monitoring Station)

835 585

810 175

WM4

-

South of the Project Site

(Impact Monitoring Station)

834 899

810 026

Notes:       Two control stations (WC1 and WC2) are required due to different flow directions during flood and ebb tides.

4.5.2           The status and locations of the above monitoring stations may change after issuing this Manual.  If such cases exist, the appointed ET Leader may propose alternative monitoring locations taking into consideration of the latest status, availability and/or accessibility of the various possible monitoring locations.  Any change to the monitoring stations shall be justified by the ET Leader, agreed by the ER, verified by the IEC before seeking approval from EPD prior to the implementation of sampling programme.

4.5.3           When alternative monitoring locations are proposed, they should 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

·       control station shall be selected at a location to allow a comparison of the water quality at the potentially impacted site with the ambient water quality.  The control station shall be selected such that it is located within the same body of water as the impact monitoring station but is located outside the area of influence of the works.

4.6                Details of Water Quality Monitoring

Baseline Monitoring

4.6.1           Baseline conditions of water quality should be established by the ET and agreed with IEC and EPD.  The purposes of the baseline monitoring are to establish ambient conditions prior to the commencement of the works, to demonstrate the suitability of the proposed control and impact monitoring stations, and for establishment of the Action and Limit levels.

4.6.2           The baseline conditions should be established by measuring the water quality parameters including pH, salinity, temperature, DO (in mg/L and % of saturation), turbidity and SS at the proposed monitoring stations as shown in Figure 4.1 (also see Table 4.1), 3 days per week, at mid-flood and mid-ebb tides, for a period of 4 weeks prior to the commencement of dredging, sand blanket filling and DCM installation.  The interval between two sets of monitoring shall not be less than 36 hours, and the baseline monitoring schedule shall be submitted to DEP and IEC at least one week prior to the commencement of the baseline monitoring.  The ET Leader shall seek approval from the ER, IEC and EPD on the alternative proposal prior to its implementation.

4.6.3           There shall not be any major construction activities 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.

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

Construction Monitoring

4.6.5           During dredging, sand blanket filling and DCM installation, impact monitoring shall be undertaken 3 days per week, with sampling/measurement at the monitoring stations as shown in Figure 4.1 (also see Table 4.1).  The ET should carry out spot check to ensure that the Contractor has undertaken all recommended control measures to prevent direct contact of pollutants with rainwater or runoff, and measures to abate contaminants in the stormwater runoff.  Parameters to be monitored include pH, salinity, temperature, DO (in mg/L and % of saturation), turbidity and SS.  The interval between two sets of monitoring shall not be less than 36 hours except where there are exceedances of Action and/or Limit levels, in which case the monitoring frequency shall be increased.

4.6.6           Requirements as stated in Section 4.5.2 shall be followed.  Any change to the EM&A requirements or programme shall be justified by the ET Leader, agreed by the ER, verified by the IEC before seeking approval from EPD prior to its implementation.

4.6.7           Proposed water quality monitoring schedule shall be submitted to ER, IEC and EPD at least 1 week before the first day of the monitoring month.  The ER, IEC and EPD shall also be notified immediately for any changes in schedule.

Post-Construction Monitoring

4.6.8           Upon completion of all construction activities, a post-construction monitoring exercise on water quality shall be carried out for four weeks in the same manner as the baseline monitoring.  The results of the monitoring shall be presented in the Final EM&A Summary Report.

Water Quality Compliance

4.6.9           Construction phase water quality monitoring will be evaluated against Action and Limit levels.  The proposed Action and Limit levels for water quality is presented in Table 4.2.  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 4.3) should be undertaken and a review of works will be carried out by the Contractor.

4.6.10        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 implementation of the recommended mitigation measures as listed in Appendix B.

Table 4.2  Action and Limit Levels for Water Quality

Parameters

Action

Limit

DO in mg/L

(Surface, Middle & Bottom) b

Surface & Middle

<5%-ile of baseline data for surface and middle layers

 

Bottom

<5%-ile of baseline data for bottom layer

Surface & Middle

<4 mg/L or <1%-ile of baseline data for surface and middle layers

 

Bottom

<2 mg/L or <1%-ile of baseline data for bottom layer

SS in mg/L

(depth-averaged a) c

>95%-ile of baseline data and >120% of upstream control station’s SS recorded on the same day

>99%-ile of baseline data and >130% of upstream control station’s SS recorded on the same day

Turbidity in NTU

(depth-averaged a) c

>95%-ile of baseline data and >120% of upstream control station’s turbidity recorded on the same day

>99%-ile of baseline data and >130% of upstream control station’s turbidity recorded on the same day

 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 and turbidity, non-compliance of the water quality limits occurs when monitoring result is higher than the limits.

Table 4.3  Event and Action Plan for Water Quality Monitoring

Event

 

Action

 

ET

IEC

ER

Contractor

Action level being exceeded by one sampling day

·  Repeat in-situ measurement on the next day of exceedance to confirm findings;

·  Check monitoring data, equipment and Contractor's working methods;

·  Identify source(s) of impact and record in notification of exceedance;

·  Inform IEC, ER and Contractor.

·  Check monitoring data submitted by ET and Contractor’s working methods.

·   Confirm receipt of notification of exceedance in writing.

·   Confirm receipt of notification of exceedance in writing;

·   Check plant and equipment and rectify unacceptable practice.

Action level being exceeded by two or more consecutive sampling days

·  Repeat in situ measurement on the next day of exceedance to confirm findings;

·  Check monitoring data, plant, equipment and Contractor’s working methods;

·  Identify source(s) of impact and record in notification of exceedance;

·  Inform IEC, ER and Contractor;

·  Discuss with IEC and Contractor on additional mitigation measures and ensure that they are implemented.

·  Check monitoring data submitted by ET and Contractor’s working methods;

·  Discuss with ET and Contractor on additional mitigation measures and advise ER accordingly;

·  Access the effectiveness of the implemented mitigation measures.

·   Confirm receipt of notification of exceedance in writing;

·  Discuss with the IEC on the proposed additional mitigation measures and agree on the mitigation measures to be implemented;

·   Ensure additional mitigation measures are properly implemented.

·   Confirm receipt of notification of exceedance in writing;

·  Check plant and equipment and rectify unacceptable practice;

·  Consider changes of working methods

·  Discuss with ET and IEC on additional mitigation measures and proposed them to ER within 3 working days;

·  Implement the agreed mitigation measures.

Limit level being exceeded by one sampling day

·  Repeat in situ measurement on the next day of exceedance to confirm findings;

·  Check monitoring data, plant, equipment and Contractor’s working methods;

·  Identify source(s) of impact and record in notification of exceedance;

·  Inform IEC, ER, Contractor and EPD;

·  Discuss with IEC and Contractor on additional mitigation measures and ensure that they are implemented.

·  Check monitoring data submitted by ET and Contractor’s working methods;

·  Discuss with ET and Contractor on additional mitigation measures and advise ER accordingly;

·  Access the effectiveness of the implemented mitigation measures.

·   Confirm receipt of notification of exceedance in writing;

·  Discuss with the IEC on the proposed additional mitigation measures and agree on the mitigation measures to be implemented;

·  Ensure additional mitigation measures are properly implemented;

·  Request Contractor to critically review the working methods.

·   Confirm receipt of notification of exceedance in writing;

·  Check plant and equipment and rectify unacceptable practice;

·  Critically review the need to change working methods

·  Discuss with ET and IEC on additional mitigation measures and proposed them to ER within 3 working days;

·  Implement the agreed mitigation measures.

Limit level being exceeded by two or more consecutive sampling days

·  Repeat in situ measurement on the next two days of exceedance to confirm findings;

·  Check monitoring data, plant, equipment and Contractor’s working methods;

·  Identify source(s) of impact and record in notification of exceedance;

·  Inform IEC, ER, Contractor and EPD;

·  Discuss with IEC and Contractor on additional mitigation measures and ensure that they are implemented.

·  Check monitoring data submitted by ET and Contractor’s working methods;

·  Discuss with ET and Contractor on additional mitigation measures and advise ER accordingly;

·  Access the effectiveness of the implemented mitigation measures.

·   Confirm receipt of notification of exceedance in writing;

·  Discuss with the IEC on the proposed additional mitigation measures and agree on the mitigation measures to be implemented;

·  Ensure additional mitigation measures are properly implemented;

·  Request Contractor to critically review the working methods.

·   Confirm receipt of notification of exceedance in writing;

·  Check plant and equipment and rectify unacceptable practice;

·  Critically review the need to change working methods

·  Discuss with ET and IEC on additional mitigation measures and proposed them to ER within 3 working days;

·  Implement the agreed mitigation measures.

4.7                Construction Site Audits

4.7.1           Regular site environmental audit during the construction phase of the Project should be conducted at least once per week to ensure that the recommended mitigation measures are to be properly undertaken during construction phase of the Project.  It can also provide an effective control of any malpractices and therefore achieve continual improvement of environmental performance on site.  Site audits shall include site inspections and compliance audits.

Mitigation Measures

4.7.2           Mitigation measures for construction phase water quality impact have been recommended in the EIA Report.  All the recommended mitigation measures are detailed in the implementation schedule presented in Appendix B.  The Contractor shall be responsible for the design and implementation of these measures.

Site Inspections

4.7.3           Site inspections should be carried out by the ET based on the recommended mitigation measures for water pollution control as detailed in Appendix B.  In the event that the recommended mitigation measures are not fully or properly implemented, deficiency shall be recorded and reported to the site management.  Suitable actions should be carried out to:

·       Investigate the problems and the causes;

·       Issue action notes to the Contractor which is responsible for the works;

·       Implement remedial and corrective actions immediately;

·       Re-inspect the site conditions upon completion of the remedial and corrective actions; and

·       Record the event and discuss with the Contractor for preventive actions.

Compliance Audits

4.7.4           Monitoring of the treated effluent quality from the works areas is required during the construction phase of the Project.  The monitoring shall be carried out at the pre-determined discharge point.  Compliance audits are to be undertaken to ensure that a valid discharge licence has been issued by EPD prior to the discharge of effluent from the Project site.  The monitoring frequency and parameters specified in the discharge licence shall be fully considered during the monitoring.  All monitoring requirements shall be approved by EPD.  The audit results reflect whether the effluent quality is in compliance with the discharge licence requirements.  In case of non-compliance, suitable actions shall be undertaken to:

·       Notify the site management for the non-compliance;

·       Identify the sources of pollution;

·       Check the implementation status of the recommended mitigation measures;

·       Investigate the operating conditions of the on-site treatment systems;

·       Implement corrective and remedial actions to improve the effluent quality;

·       Increase monitoring frequency until the effluent quality is in compliance with the discharge licence requirements; and

·       Record the non-compliance and propose preventive measures.

5                    Waste Management implications

5.1                Introduction

5.1.1           Potential waste management implication arising from the construction and operation phases of the Project were addressed in the EIA Report.  Waste management during construction phase will mainly be the contractor’s responsibility to ensure that any wastes produced during the construction and demolition works are handled, stored and disposed of in accordance with good waste management practices and relevant regulations and other legislative requirements. Provided that these wastes are handled, transported and disposed of using approved methods and that the recommended good site practices and relevant legislation are strictly followed, adverse environmental impacts would not be expected.

5.1.2           Provided that the waste is handled, transported and disposed of using approved methods during the operation phase of the Project, no adverse environmental impacts would be expected with the implementation of good waste management practices.  EM&A would not be necessary during the operation phase.

5.2                Mitigation Measures

5.2.1           Mitigation measures for waste management recommended in the EIA Report should form the basis of the site Waste Management Plan (WMP) to be developed by the Contractor in the construction stage. A WMP, as a part of the Environmental Management Plan (EMP), should be prepared in accordance with ETWB TC (W) No.19/2005 and submitted to the Engineer for approval. The monitoring and auditing requirement stated in ETWB TC (W) No.19/2005 should be followed with regard to the management of C&D materials. Appendix B provides the implementation schedule of the recommended mitigation measures during both construction and operation phases.

5.2.2           Waste generated during the construction activities should be audited regularly at least once per week by the ET to determine if waste is being managed in accordance with approved procedures and the site WMP. The audit should look at all aspects of on-site waste management practices including waste generation, storage, recycling, transport and disposal. Apart from site inspection, documents including licenses, permits, disposal and recycling records should be reviewed and audited for compliance with the legislations and contract requirements. In addition, the routine site inspections should check the implementation of the recommended good site practices, waste reduction measures, and other waste management mitigation measures.

5.2.3           With the appropriate handling, storage and removal of waste arisings during the construction and operation of the Project as presented in Appendix B, the potential to cause adverse environmental impacts would be minimised.  During the site inspections, the ET shall pay special attention to the issues relating to waste management and check whether the Contractor has implemented the recommended good site practices, waste reduction measures and other mitigation measures.

5.3                Audit Requirement

5.3.1           Regular audits and site inspections should be carried out at least once per week during construction phases by the ER, ET and Contractor to ensure that the recommended good site practices and the recommended mitigation measures listed in Appendix B are properly implemented by the Contractor. The audits should concern all aspects of on-site waste management practices including waste generation, storage, recycling, transport and disposal. Apart from site inspection, documents including licences, permits, disposal and recycling records should be reviewed and audited for compliance with the legislation and contract requirements.

5.3.2           The requirements of the environmental audit programme are set out in Section 10 of this Manual. The audit programme will verify the implementation status and evaluate the effectiveness of the mitigation measures.

6                    MarinE Ecology

6.1                Introduction

6.1.1           Potential marine ecological impacts arising from the construction and operation phases of the Project were assessed in the EIA Report.  These potential impacts included direct habitat loss, direct injury / mortality of wildlife, and indirect construction and operation disturbances. The Project site primarily situated in the Aberdeen Channel where habitats directly affected included both natural habitats (i.e. rocky shoreline, subtidal soft and hard bottom habitat) and man-made habitat (i.e artificial seawalls) that are already subjected to high level of disturbance from existing marine traffic.  Despite 13 coral species of conservation importance recorded and anticipated to be potentially directly impacted by the Project, all the species are common and widespread species in Hong Kong with low coverage (<5%) and sparsely distributed within the vicinity of the Project site, and the directly impacted area for each proposed work element is very small, direct impact to these coral species of conservation importance is therefore anticipated to be Low.

6.1.2           With the implementation of appropriate mitigation measures, no unacceptable adverse residual impacts would be anticipated.  Nonetheless, EM&A is considered necessary during construction of the Project and the requirements are described below.  No specific ecological EM&A during operation phase is recommended. 

6.2                Mitigation Measures

6.2.1           The implementation of mitigation measures recommended in the EIA Report to minimise potential ecological impacts are provided in Appendix B.

6.3                Monitoring Requirements

6.3.1           Regular weekly marine water quality monitoring should be undertaken during the construction phase to ensure that all the recommended mitigation measures to control water quality impacts and associated marine ecological impacts are properly implemented.  Details of monitoring and audits requirements for marine water quality are set out in Section 4 of this Manual.

6.3.2           During operation phase, no specific ecological monitoring is required as residual impacts on the marine ecology are negligible. However, a four-week post-construction water quality monitoring programme will be in place upon completion of marine works as mentioned in Section 4 of this Manual.

6.4                Audit Requirements

6.4.1           Site audits should be undertaken on a weekly basis to check the proper implementation and maintenance of recommended mitigation measures during construction phase of the Project.  In case of non-compliance, contractor should be informed to strengthen the proposed mitigation measures accordingly.

6.4.2           No EM&A programme is required during the operation phase.

7                    Fisheries

7.1                Introduction

7.1.1           Potential fisheries impacts arising from the construction and operation phases of the Project were addressed in the EIA Report.  The impact on fisheries during construction and operation phases is considered minor.  With the implementation of water quality mitigation measures during construction and operation phases, potential impacts on fisheries will be further minimised. No unacceptable residual fisheries impacts during construction and operation phases of the Project will be resulted.

7.2                Mitigation Measures

7.2.1           Mitigation measures such as deployment of double silt curtains, closed grab and restriction of dredging rates recommended in the water quality impact assessment for controlling water quality impact (Section 4 refers) will also serve to protect fisheries from indirect impacts and ensure no unacceptable impact on fisheries resources and operations. 

7.2.2           Contractor must register as a chemical waste producer if chemical wastes would be produced from the construction activities.  The Waste Disposal Ordinance (Cap. 354) and its subsidiary regulations in particular the Waste Disposal (Chemical Waste) (General) Regulation should be observed and complied with for control of chemical wastes. 

7.2.3           Any service shop and maintenance facilities should be located on hard standings within a bunded area, and sumps and oil interceptors should be provided. 

7.2.4           Maintenance of vehicles and equipment involving activities with potential leakage and spillage should only be undertaken within the areas appropriately equipped to control these discharges.

7.2.5           Good site practices should be strictly followed to avoid adverse impacts arising from the construction activities.  Recommendations for good site practices during the construction phase include:

·       Nomination of approved personnel, such as a site manager, to be responsible for implementation of good site practices, arrangements for waste collection and effective disposal to an appropriate facility;

·       Training of site personnel in site cleanliness, concepts of waste reduction, reuse and recycling, proper waste management and chemical waste handling procedures;

·       Provision of sufficient waste reception/ disposal points, and regular collection of waste;

·       Adoption of appropriate measures to minimise windblown litter and dust during transportation of waste by either covering construction vessels or by transporting wastes in enclosed containers;

·       Provision of regular cleaning and maintenance programme for drainage systems, sumps and oil interceptors;

·       Adoption of a recording system for the amount of wastes generated, recycled and disposed (including the disposal sites); and

·       Preparation of Waste Management Plan, as part of the Environmental Management Plan.

7.3                Monitoring and Audit Measures

7.3.1           Regular weekly marine water quality monitoring should be undertaken during the construction phase to ensure that all the recommended mitigation measures to control water quality impacts and associated fisheries impacts are properly implemented. Details of monitoring and audits requirements for marine water quality are set out in Section 4 of this Manual.

7.3.2           No unacceptable residual fisheries impacts during construction and operation phases of the Project will be resulted.  Thus, no environmental monitoring and auditing program specific for fisheries is required. However, a four-week post-construction water quality monitoring programme will be in place upon completion of marine works as mentioned in Section 4 of this Manual.

8                    Landscape and Visual

8.1                Introduction

8.1.1           Potential landscape and visual impacts arising from the construction and operation phases of the Project were addressed in the EIA Report. Results indicated that landscape and visual impact arising from construction of the Project with the implementation of the mitigation measures is acceptable.

8.2                Mitigation Measures

8.2.1           The implementation of mitigation measures recommended in the EIA Report to minimise potential landscape and visual impacts are provided in Appendix B.

8.3                Audit Requirements

8.3.1           Monitoring and audit should be undertaken during the construction phase of the Project to ensure and check that the implementation and maintenance of landscape and visual mitigation measures are being properly carried out. Regular site inspections should be undertaken through the construction period.

9                    Cultural Heritage

9.1                Introduction

9.1.1           There is no built heritage identified within the Project boundary and assessment area. One other identified item with no status (existing breakwaters) is located within the Project boundary while one other identified item with no status (No. 198 light beacon and associated landing facilities) is located within the 300 m assessment area.  Potential impact is anticipated from the Project to the existing western breakwater as shortening of the existing western breakwater is proposed in the Project.  Mitigation measures for the existing western breakwater are recommended. On the other hand, since there is no impact anticipated to No. 198 light beacon and associated landing facilities, no mitigation measure is required.

9.1.2           No Site of Archaeological Interest (SAI) is identified within the assessment area.  For marine archaeology, based on the findings of the Marine Archaeological Investigation (MAI), the survey result was sufficient to conclude that the finds within the licence area are of low archaeological interest. As the identified object within the assessment area are of low archaeological interest and the works are about 100 m away, there will be no negative impact from the construction works and is therefore no need for any mitigation or further action.

9.2                Mitigation Measures

Construction Phase

Built Heritage

9.2.1           No EM&A programme is required during the construction phase.  During construction phase, potential direct impact involving shortening is anticipated from the Project to the existing western breakwater.  It should be preserved by record (3D scanning, photographic and video) before the shortening and modification. Furthermore, the end of the shortened western breakwater should be constructed to preserve a similar shape and materials of the tetrapod in its current layout. 

Archaeology

9.2.2           There will be no need for any mitigation measures during the construction phase.

9.2.3           For precautionary measures, AMO should be informed immediately if marine archaeological materials having certain to significant values are found during the course of construction works of the Project.

Operation Phase

Built Heritage

9.2.4           As no adverse impacts to any built heritage in concern during the operation phase, no mitigation measure is required to the built heritage and other identified item.

Archaeology

9.2.5           There will be no need for any mitigation measures during the operation phase.

10                 Site Inspection / Audit

10.1             Site Inspection Requirements

10.1.1        Site inspection provides a direct means to trigger and enforce specified environmental protection and pollution control measures.  These shall be undertaken regularly and routinely to inspect construction activities in order to ensure that appropriate environmental protection and pollution control mitigation measures are properly implemented.  The site inspection is one of the most effective tools to enforce the environmental protection requirements at the works area.

10.1.2        The ET Leader shall be responsible for formulating the environmental site inspection, the deficiency and remedial action reporting system, and for carrying out the site inspection works.  He shall submit a proposal for site inspection and deficiency and remedial action reporting procedures to the Contractor for agreement, and to the ER for approval. The ET’s proposal for rectification would be made known to the IEC.

10.1.3        Regular site inspections shall be carried out at least once per week.  The areas of inspection shall not be limited to the environmental situation, pollution control and mitigation measures within the site; it should also review the environmental situation outside the works area which is likely to be affected, directly or indirectly, by the site activities.  The ET shall make reference to the following information in conducting the inspection:

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

·       ongoing results of the EM&A program;

·       works progress and programme;

·       individual works methodology proposals (which shall include proposal on associated pollution control measures);

·       contract specifications on environmental protection and pollution prevention control;

·       relevant environmental protection and pollution control laws; and

·       previous site inspection results undertaken by the ET and others.

10.1.4        The Contractor shall keep the ET Leader updated with all relevant information on the construction contract necessary for him to carry out the site inspections.  Inspection results and associated recommendations for improvements to the environmental protection and pollution control works shall be submitted to the IEC and the Contractor within 24 hours for reference and for taking immediate remedial action.  The Contractor shall follow the procedures and time-frame stipulated in the environmental site inspection, and the deficiency and remedial action reporting system formulated by the ET Leader, to report on any remedial measures subsequent to the site inspections.

10.1.5        The ET shall also carry out ad hoc site inspections if significant environmental problems are identified.  Inspections may also be required subsequent to receipt of an environmental complaint, or as part of the investigation work, as specified in the Action Plan for environmental monitoring and audit.

10.2             Compliance with Legal and Contractual Requirements

10.2.1        There are contractual environmental protection and pollution control requirements as well as environmental protection and pollution control laws in Hong Kong with which construction activities must comply.

10.2.2        In order that the works are in compliance with the contractual requirements, all works method statements submitted by the Contractor to the ER for approval shall be sent to the ET Leader for vetting to see whether sufficient environmental protection and pollution control measures have been included.  The implementation schedule of mitigation measures is summarised in Appendix B.

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

10.2.4        The Contractor shall regularly copy relevant documents to the ET Leader so that works checking could be carried out effectively.  The document shall at least include the updated Works Progress Reports, updated Works Programme, any application letters for different license / permits under the environmental protection laws, and copies of all valid licenses / permits.  The site diary shall also be available for the ET Leader's inspection upon his request.

10.2.5        After reviewing the documentation, the ET Leader shall advise the Contractor of any non-compliance with contractual and legislative requirements on environmental protection and pollution control for them to take follow-up actions.  If the ET Leader's review concludes that the current status on license / permit application and any environmental protection and pollution control preparation works may result in potential violation of environmental protection and pollution control requirements, he shall also advise the Contractor accordingly.

10.2.6        Upon receipt of the advice, the Contractor shall undertake immediate action to remedy the situation.  The ER shall follow up to ensure that appropriate action has been taken in order to satisfy contractual and legal requirements.

10.3             Environmental Complaints

10.3.1        Complaints shall be referred to the ET Leader for action. The ET Leader shall undertake the following procedures upon receipt of any complaint:

i.            log complaint and date of receipt onto the complaint database and inform the IEC immediately;

ii.          investigate the complaint to determine its validity, and assess whether the source of the problem is due to works activities;

iii.        identify mitigation measures in consultation with the IEC if a complaint is valid and due to works;

iv.         advise the Contractor if mitigation measures are required;

v.          review the Contractor's response to identified mitigation measures, and the updated situation;

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

vii.       undertake additional monitoring and audit to verify the situation if necessary, and review that circumstances leading to the complaint do not recur;

viii.     report investigation results and subsequent actions to complainant (if the source of complaint is identified through EPD, the results should be reported within the timeframe assigned by EPD); and

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

10.3.2        A flow chart of the complaint response procedure is shown below.

10.3.3        During the complaint investigation work, the Contractor and ER shall co-operate with the ET Leader in providing all the necessary information and assistance for completion of the investigation.  If mitigation measures are identified to be required in the investigation in consultation with the IEC, the Contractor shall promptly carry out the mitigation works.  The ER shall ensure that the Contractor has implemented the mitigation measures.

11                 Reporting

11.1             Introduction

11.1.1        Reports can be provided in an electronic medium upon agreeing the format with the ER and EPD. This would enable a transition from a paper / historic and reactive approach to an electronic / real time proactive approach.  All the monitoring data (baseline and impact) shall also be submitted in electronic format.

11.1.2        ET Leader shall submit baseline monitoring report, monthly EM&A report, quarterly EM&A summary report and final EM&A review report. In accordance with Annex 21 of the EIAO-TM, a copy of the monthly, quarterly summary and final review EM&A reports shall be made available to the Director of Environmental Protection.

11.2             Electronic Reporting of EM&A Information

11.2.1        To facilitate public inspection of the baseline monitoring report and various EM&A reports via the Environmental Impact Assessment Ordinance (EIAO) Internet website and at the EIAO register office, electronic copies of these reports shall be prepared in Hyper Text Markup Language (HTML) (version 4.0 or later) and in Portable Document Format (PDF Adobe 11 Pro version or later), unless otherwise agreed by EPD and shall be submitted at the same time as the hardcopies.  For the HTML version, a content page capable of providing hyperlink to each section and sub-section of these reports shall be included at the beginning of the document.  Hyperlinks to all figures, drawings and tables in these reports shall be provided in the main text from where the respective references are made.  All graphics in these reports shall be in interlaced GIF format unless otherwise agreed by EPD. The content of the electronic copies of these reports must be the same as the hard copies.  The summary of the monitoring data taken shall be included in the various EM&A Reports to allow for public inspection via the EIAO Internet website.

11.3             Baseline Monitoring Report

11.3.1        Baseline Environmental Monitoring Report(s) shall be prepared within 10 working days of completion of the baseline monitoring and then certified by the ET Leader. Copies of the Baseline Environmental Monitoring Report shall be submitted to the Contractor, the IEC, ER and EPD. The ET Leader shall liaise with the relevant parties on the exact number of copies they require.

11.3.2        The Baseline Environmental Monitoring Report shall include, but not be limited to the following information:

i.            up to half a page executive summary;

ii.          brief project background information;

iii.        drawings showing locations of the baseline monitoring stations;

iv.         an updated construction programme with milestones of environmental protection / mitigation activities annotated;

v.          monitoring results (in both hard and soft copies) together with the following information:

-       monitoring methodology;

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

-       parameters monitored;

-       monitoring locations (and depth);

-       monitoring date, time, frequency and duration; and

-       QA/QC results and detection limits.

vi.         details on influencing factors, including:

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

-       weather conditions during the period; and

-       other factors which might affect results.

vii.       determination of the Action and Limit levels for each monitoring parameter and statistical analysis of the baseline data, the analysis shall conclude if there is any significant difference between control and impact stations for the parameters monitored;

viii.     revisions for inclusion in the EM&A Manual; and

ix.         comments, recommendations and conclusions.

11.4             Monthly EM&A Reports

General

11.4.1        The results and finding of all EM&A works required in the Manual should be recorded in the monthly EM&A reports prepared by the ET Leader and endorsed by the IEC.  The EM&A report shall be prepared and submitted within 10 working days at the end of each reporting month, with the first report due the month after construction commences.  Each monthly EM&A report shall be submitted to the following parties: the Contractor, the IEC, the ER and EPD.  Before submission of the first EM&A report, the ET Leader shall liaise with the parties on the required number of copies and format of the monthly reports in both hard copy and electronic medium.

11.4.2        The ET Leader shall review the number and location of monitoring stations and parameters every six months, or on as needed basis, in order to cater for any changes in the surrounding environment and the nature of works in progress.

First Monthly EM&A Report

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

i.            executive summary (1-2 pages):

-       breaches of Action and Limit levels;

-       complaint log;

-       notifications of any summons and successful prosecutions;

-       reporting changes; and

-       future key issues.

ii.          basic project information:

-       project organisation including key personnel contact names and telephone numbers;

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

-       management structure, and

-       works undertaken during the month.

iii.        environmental status:

-       advice on the status of statutory environmental compliance, such as the status of compliance with the EP conditions under the EIAO, submission status under the EP and implementation status of mitigation measures;

-       works undertaken during the reporting month with illustrations (such as location of works, etc.); and

-       drawings showing the Project area, any environmental sensitive receivers and the locations of the monitoring and control stations (with co-ordinates of the monitoring locations).

iv.         a brief summary of EM&A requirements including:

-       all monitoring parameters;

-       environmental quality performance limits (Action and Limit levels);

-       Event-Action Plans;

-       environmental mitigation measures as recommended in the Final EIA report; and

-       environmental requirements in contract documents.

v.          implementation status:

-       advice on the implementation status of environmental protection and pollution control / mitigation measures, as recommended in the Final EIA report, summarised in the updated implementation schedule.

vi.         monitoring results (in both hard and soft copies) together with the following information:

-       monitoring methodology;

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

-       monitoring parameters;

-       monitoring locations (and depth);

-       monitoring date, time, frequency, and duration; and

-       weather conditions during the period.

-       graphical plots of the monitored parameters in the month annotated against:

o       the major activities being carried out on site during the period;

o       weather conditions that may affect the results; and

o       any other factors which might affect the monitoring results;

-       any other factors which might affect the monitoring results; and

-       QA/QC results and detection limits.

vii.       report on non-compliance, complaints, notifications of summons and successful prosecutions:

-       record of all non-compliance (exceedances) of the environmental quality performance limits (Action and Limit levels);

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

-       record of all notification of summons and successful prosecutions for breaches of current environmental protection / pollution control legislations, including locations and nature of the breaches, investigation, follow-up actions taken, results and summary;

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

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

viii.     others:

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

-       advice on the solid and liquid waste management status;

-       a forecast of the works programme, impact predictions and monitoring schedule for the next three months;

-       compare and contrast the EM&A data with the EIA predictions and annotate with explanation for any discrepancies; and

-       comments (for examples, effectiveness and efficiency of the mitigation measures), recommendations (for example, any improvement in the EM&A programme) and conclusions.

Subsequent Monthly EM&A Reports

11.4.4        Subsequent monthly EM&A reports shall include the following:

i.            executive summary (1 - 2 pages):

-       breaches of Action and Limit levels;

-       complaints log;

-       notifications of any summons and successful prosecutions;

-       reporting changes; and

-       future key issues.

ii.          basic project information:

-       project organisation including key personnel contact names and telephone numbers;

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

-       management structure, and

-       works undertaken during the month.

iii.        environmental status:

-       advice on the status of statutory environmental compliance, such as the status of compliance with the EP conditions under the EIAO, submission status under the EP and implementation status of mitigation measures;

-       works undertaken during the month with illustrations including key personnel contact names and telephone numbers; and

-       drawing showing the Project area, any environmental sensitive receivers and the locations of the monitoring and control stations.

iv.         implementation status:

-       advice on the implementation status of environmental protection and pollution control / mitigation measures, as recommended in the Final EIA report, summarised in the updated implementation schedule.

v.          monitoring results (in both hard and soft copies) together with the following information:

-       monitoring methodology;

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

-       parameters monitored;

-       monitoring locations (and depth);

-       monitoring date, time, frequency, and duration;

-       weather conditions during the period;

-       graphical plots of the monitored parameters in the month annotated against;

o       the major activities being carried out on site during the period;

o       weather conditions that may affect the results; and

o       any other factors which might affect the monitoring results.

-       any other factors which might affect the monitoring results; and

-       QA/QC results and detection limits.

vi.         report on non-compliance, complaints, and notifications of summons and successful prosecutions:

-       record of all non-compliance (exceedances) of the environmental quality performance limits (Action and Limit levels);

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

-       record of all notification of summons and successful prosecutions for breaches of current environmental protection / pollution control legislations, including locations and nature of the breaches, investigation, follow-up actions taken, results and summary;

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

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

vii.       others:

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

-       advice on the solid and liquid waste management status;

-       a forecast of the works programme, impact predictions and monitoring schedule for the next three months;

-       compare and contrast the EM&A data with the EIA predictions and annotate with explanation for any discrepancies; and

-       comments (for examples, effectiveness and efficiency of the mitigation measures), recommendations (for example, any improvement in the EM&A programme) and conclusions.

viii.     appendices

-       Action and Limit levels;

-       graphical plots of trends of monitored parameters at key stations over the past four reporting periods for representative monitoring stations annotated against the following:

o       major activities being carried out on site during the period;

o       weather conditions during the period; and

o       any other factors that might affect the monitoring results.

-       monitoring schedule for the present and next reporting period;

-       cumulative statistics on complaints, notifications of summons and successful prosecutions; and

-       outstanding issues and deficiencies

11.5             Quarterly EM&A Summary Reports

11.5.1        A quarterly EM&A summary report of around five pages shall be produced by the ET Leader and shall contain at least the following information.  Apart from these, the first quarterly summary report should also confirm that the monitoring work is proving effective and that it is generating data with the necessary statistical power to categorically identify or confirm the absence of impact attributable to the works.  Each quarterly EM&A report shall be submitted to the following parties: the IEC, the ER and EPD.

i.            executive summary (1 - 2 pages);

ii.          basic project information including a synopsis of the project organisation, programme, contacts of key management, and a synopsis of works undertaken during the quarter;

iii.        a brief summary of EM&A requirements including:

-       monitoring parameters;

-       environmental quality performance limits (Action and Limit levels); and

-       environmental mitigation measures, as recommended in the Final EIA report.

iv.         advice on the implementation status of environmental protection and pollution control / mitigation measures, as recommended in the Final EIA report, summarised in the updated implementation schedule;

v.          drawings showing the Project area, any environmental sensitive receivers and the locations of the monitoring and control stations;

vi.         graphical plots of the trends of monitored parameters over the past four months (the last month of the previous quarter and the present quarter) for representative monitoring stations annotated against:

-       the major activities being carried out on site during the period;

-       weather conditions during the period; and

-       any other factors which might affect the monitoring results.

vii.       advice on the solid and liquid waste management status;

viii.     a summary of non-compliance (exceedances) of the environmental quality performance limits (Action and Limit levels);

ix.         a brief review of the reasons for and the implications of non-compliance, including a review of pollution sources and working procedures;

x.          a summary description of the actions taken in the event of non-compliance and any follow-up procedures related to earlier non-compliance;

xi.         a summarised record of all complaints received (written or verbal) for each media, liaison and consultation undertaken, actions and follow-up procedures taken;

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

xiii.     comments (for examples, a review of the effectiveness and efficiency of the mitigation measures and the performance of the environmental management system, that is, of the overall EM&A programme); recommendations (for example, any improvement in the EM&A programme) and conclusions for the quarter; and

xiv.      proponents' contacts and any hotline telephone number for the public to make enquiries.

11.6             Final EM&A Review Report for Construction Phase

11.6.1        The construction phase EM&A program shall be terminated upon completion of those construction activities that have the potential to result in a significant environmental impact.

11.6.2        The proposed termination should only be implemented after the proposal has been endorsed by the IEC, the Engineer and the Project proponent followed by final approval from the Director of Environmental Protection.

11.6.3        The final EM&A review report for construction phase should be prepared by the ET Leader and contain at least the following information. The final EM&A review report shall be submitted to the following parties: the IEC, the ER and EPD.

i.            executive summary (1 - 2 pages);

ii.          basic project information including a synopsis of the project organisation, contacts of key management, and a synopsis of work undertaken during the course of the Project or past twelve months;

iii.        a brief summary of EM&A requirements including:

-       monitoring parameters;

-       environmental quality performance limits (Action and Limit levels); and

-       environmental mitigation measures, as recommended in the Final EIA report.

iv.         advice on the implementation status of environmental protection and pollution control / mitigation measures, as recommended in the Final EIA report, summarised in the updated implementation schedule;

v.          drawings showing the Project area, any environmental sensitive receivers and the locations of the monitoring and control stations;

vi.         graphical plots of the trends of monitored parameters over the course of the Project, for all monitoring stations annotated against:

-       the major activities being carried out on site during the period;

-       weather conditions during the period;

-       any other factors which might affect the monitoring results; and

-       the return of ambient environmental conditions in comparison with baseline data.

vii.       compare and contrast the EM&A data with the EIA predictions and annotate with explanation for any discrepancies;

viii.     provide clear-cut decisions on the environmental acceptability of the Project with reference to the specific impact hypothesis;

ix.         advice on the solid and liquid waste management status;

x.          a summary of non-compliance (exceedances) of the environmental quality performance limits (Action and Limit levels);

xi.         a brief review of the reasons for and the implications of non-compliance including review of pollution sources and working procedures;

xii.       a summary description of the actions taken in the event of non-compliance and any follow-up procedures related to earlier non-compliance;

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

xiv.      review monitoring methodology adopted and with the benefit of hindsight, comment on its effectiveness (including cost effectiveness);

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

xvi.      review the practicality and effectiveness of the EIA process and EM&A programme (for example, a review of the effectiveness and efficiency of the mitigation measures and the performance of the environmental management system, that is, of the overall EM&A programme), recommendations (for example, any improvement in the EM&A programme); and

xvii.    a conclusion to state the return of ambient and / or the predicted scenario as per EIA findings.

11.7             Data Keeping

11.7.1        No site-based documents (such as monitoring field records, laboratory analysis records, site inspection forms etc.) are required to be included in the EM&A reporting documents.  However, any such documents should be properly maintained by the ET and be ready for inspection upon request.  All relevant information should be recorded in electronic format, and the software copy must be available upon request.  All document and data should be kept for at least one year after completion of the construction contract.

11.8             Interim Notifications of Environmental Quality Limit Exceedances

11.8.1        With reference to the Event and Action Plan, when the environmental quality performance limits are exceeded, the ET Leader shall immediately notify the IEC and EPD, as appropriate. The notification shall be followed up with advice to IEC and EPD on the results of the investigation, proposed actions and success of the actions taken, with any necessary follow-up proposals. A sample template for the interim notifications is presented in Appendix D.

 

 


[1] The only applicable representative NSR is NSR N1. NSR N2 is equipped with central air-conditioning and does not rely on openable window for ventilation and not included in the assessment.