Pages from 0465169_SENTX Updated EM&A Manual_Rev 0_Page_1Pages%20from%200465169_SENTX%20Updated%20EM&A%20Manual_Rev%200_Page_2Pages%20from%200465169_SENTX%20Updated%20EM&A%20Manual_Rev%200_Page_3

 

Contents

1                      Introduction                                                                           

1.1                   Purpose of The Manual                                                      

1.2                   Project Description                                                           

1.3                   Objectives of the EM&A Programme                            

1.4                   Scope of The EM&A Programme                                      

1.5                   Organisation and Structure of the EM&A Programme   

1.6                   Structure of the EM&A Manual                                     

2                      EM&A General Requirements

2.1                   Introduction                                                                           

2.2                   EM&A                                                                                            

3                      aIR qUALITY                                                                               

3.1                   Introduction                                                                           

3.2                   Dust                                                                                             

3.3                   Ambient VOCs, Ammonia and H2S                                      

3.4                   Emissions of the Thermal Oxidiser                               

3.5                   Emissions of Landfill Gas Flare                                   

3.6                   Emissions of LFG Generator                                            

3.7                   ODOUR                                                                                         

3.8                   Event and Action Plan                                                        

3.9                   Meteorological Data                                                         

4                      Water quality                                                                        

4.1                   Introduction                                                                           

4.2                   Surface Water                                                                       

4.3                   Groundwater                                                                         

4.4                   Leachate                                                                                   

4.5                   Event and Action Plan for Water Quality Monitoring    

5                      Landfill Gas                                                                            

5.1                   Introduction                                                                           

5.2                   Methodology and Criteria                                              

5.3                   Monitoring Parameters, Locations and Frequency

5.4                   Monitoring Equipment                                                        

5.5                   Laboratory Measurement / Analysis                          

5.6                   Compliance Requirements                                                

6                      Noise                                                                                           

6.1                   Introduction                                                                           

6.2                   Methodology and Criteria                                              

6.3                   Monitoring Equipment                                                        

6.4                   Monitoring Locations                                                        

6.5                   Baseline Monitoring                                                           

6.6                   Impact Monitoring                                                                

6.7                   Event and Action Plan                                                        

7                      Waste Management                                                              

7.1                   General                                                                                     

7.2                   Mitigation Measures                                                           

7.3                   Site Audit/Inspection                                                           

8                      Ecology

8.1                   Introduction                                                                           

8.2                   Mitigation Measures                                                           

8.3                   Compensation                                                                         

8.4                   Environmental Monitoring and Audit                         

9                      Landscape and Visual                                                         

9.1                   Introduction                                                                           

9.2                   Mitigation Measures                                                           

9.3                   Design Phase Audit                                                               

9.4                   Construction Phase Audit                                               

9.5                   Operation/Restoration Phase Audit                           

9.6                   Aftercare Phase Audit                                                      

10                    Site environmental Audit                                                  

10.1                 Site Inspection                                                                       

10.2                 Environmental Management Plan                                

10.3                 Compliance with Legal and Contractual Requirements

10.4                 Environmental Complaints                                              

10.5                 Log-Book                                                                                   

11                    Reporting                                                                                 

11.1                 General                                                                                     

11.2                 Baseline Monitoring Report                                           

11.3                 Monthly EM&A Reports                                                      

11.4                 Quarterly EM&A Summary Reports                              

11.5                 Annual EM&A Review Report                                            

11.6                 Final EM&A Summary Report                                            

11.7                 Data Keeping                                                                           

ANNEXES     

Annex A       Implementation Schedule

Annex B         Complaint and Monitoring Proforma

 

 

1          Introduction

1.1                                                         Purpose of The Manual

1.1.1  Background

The Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Report and the associated Environmental Monitoring and Audit (EM&A) Manual for the construction, operation, restoration and aftercare of the South East New Territories Landfill Extension (SENTX) (hereafter referred to as ¡§the Project¡¨) have been approved under the Environmental Impact Assessment Ordinance (EIAO) in May 2008 (Register No.: AEIAR-117/2008).  Since then, the Hong Kong SAR Government has decided to reduce the scale of the design scheme of SENTX assessed in the approved EIA Report and SENTX will only receive construction waste.  In line with the changes proposed by EPD, the landfill contractor for SENTX, Green Valley Landfill Limited (GVL), has developed a final scheme for SENTX (hereafter ¡§the latest scheme¡¨) in 2016.  This latest design complies with the requirements in the Technical Memorandum of the Environmental Impact Assessment Process (EIAO-TM) and the current Environmental Permit (EP-308/2008/B).

This updated EM&A Manual has taken into account the findings and recommendation of the approved EIA Report and with updates taken from the current EP and the latest design to reflect the necessary environmental monitoring and audit (EM&A) requirements associated with the construction, operation/ restoration and aftercare of the SENTX under the latest design. 

This updated Manual has been prepared with reference to the approved EM&A Manual prepared in May 2008, the current EP, the latest design and the EIAO-TM.  The purpose of the Manual is to provide information, guidance and instruction to personnel charged with environmental duties and those responsible for undertaking EM&A work during construction, operation/restoration and aftercare phases of the SENTX.  It provides systematic procedures for the environmental monitoring and auditing of the potential environmental impacts that may arise from the Project.

1.2                                                         Project Description

1.2.1  Background

The existing waste disposal facility in the South-east New Territories is the SENT Landfill at Tseung Kwan O (TKO).   The Hong Kong SAR Government has identified a 13 ha site at TKO Area 137 for the extension of the SENT Landfill (hereafter refer to ¡§SENTX¡¨) (see Figure 1.2a). 

Under the latest design, the SENTX has a net void capacity of about 6.5 Mm3 and provides an additional lifespan of about 6 years, commencing operation upon exhaustion of the SENT Landfill.  The SENTX will receive construction waste only.

The design, construction, operation, restoration and aftercare of the SENTX shall comply with the requirement stipulated in the EP (EP-308/2008/B).

1.2.2  The Project

The SENTX is a piggyback landfill, occupying the southern part of the existing SENT Landfill (including its infrastructure area) and 13 ha of TKO Area 137.  A layout plan of the SENTX is shown in Figure 1.2a.  The key elements of the construction, operation/restoration and aftercare of the SENTX are described below.

Construction of SENTX

Construction works will commerce about two years prior to the operation of the SENTX.  The major construction works includes:

¡P      Site formation at the TKO Area 137 and the existing infrastructure area at SENT Landfill;

¡P      Construction of surface and groundwater drainage systems;

¡P      Construction of the leachate containment and collection systems;

¡P      Construction of new leachate and landfill gas treatment facilities, site offices, maintenance yards at the new infrastructure area;

¡P      Construction of new pipelines to transfer the leachate and landfill gas collected from the existing SENT Landfill to the treatment facilities at the new infrastructure area;

¡P      Construction of the site access and new waste reception facilities; and

¡P      Demolition of the facilities at the existing SENT Landfill infrastructure area.

Operation and Restoration of SENTX

The leachate and landfill treatment facilities will be commissioned and the first phase of the SENTX will start operation upon exhaustion of the SENT Landfill.  Construction of the leachate containment and collection system for the subsequent phases will continue while the first phase of the SENTX is in operation.  The areas that reach the finished profile will be progressively restored and landscaped.      

Aftercare of SENTX

Upon the completion of final filling and restoration, the aftercare of the SENTX will begin and last for 30 years.  Regular site maintenance, collection and treatment of landfill gas and leachate will be undertaken during the aftercare period to ensure that the landfill complies with the required environmental performance requirements and is safe.  The restored landfill may then be developed for various passive beneficial uses (eg open spaces, walking trails, etc).       

An EM&A programme will be implemented throughout the construction, operation/restoration and aftercare phases of the SENTX.  

Implementation Programme

The key implementation of milestone of the Project is indicatively summarised in Table 1.2a.

Table 1.2a      Estimated Key Dates of Implementation Programme

Key Stage of the Project

Indicative Date

Start construction

31 December 2018

Commissioning of new infrastructure facilities

2020

Demolition of existing infrastructure facilities

2021

 

 

Start waste intake at SENTX

2021 or upon exhaustion of SENT Landfill

Stop taking waste at SENTX

2027

End of aftercare for SENTX

2057

1.3                                                         Objectives of the EM&A Programme

The potential environmental impacts associated with the Project have been assessed and described in the approved EIA Report.  Mitigation measures are required to comply with the environmental criteria.  The updated mitigation measures associated with the latest design and their implementation requirements are presented in the Implementation Schedule (see Annex A[CL1]  ).  An EM&A programme will be implemented to assess the effectiveness of measures and to confirm that there will be no adverse environmental impacts during all phases of the Project.  Regular site audits will be undertaken during the construction and operation/restoration phases to check whether good site practices are properly implemented to prevent adverse environmental impacts.  Any activities that have a potential to cause adverse environmental impacts are identified before the adverse impacts occurred.  Ad hoc visits to the impacted sites should also be undertaken in response to any complaints or reported non-compliance with environmental standards in order to enable prompt actions are taken to address the impacts. 

This updated EM&A Manual provides details of the updated EM&A requirements associated with the latest design (SENTX only accept construction waste).  The main objectives of the EM&A programme are to:

¡P           verify the environmental impacts predicted in the EIA Report taking account of latest design;

¡P           monitor the performance of the Project and the effectiveness of mitigation measures;

¡P           determine Project compliance with regulatory requirements and standards;

¡P           provide an early indication should any of the environmental control measures or practices fail to achieve the required standards;

¡P           take remedial action if unexpected problems or unacceptable impacts arise;

¡P           provide a database against which any short or long term environmental impacts of the Project can be determined; and 

¡P           provide data against which environmental audits may be undertaken.

1.4                                                         Scope of The EM&A Programme

Table 1.4a summarises the requirements at various phases of the Project.

Table 1.4a      Summary of EM&A Requirements

Parameter

EM&A Phase

Construction

Operation/ Restoration

Aftercare

Dust

P

P

P (b)

Ambient Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC),  Ammonia and Hydrogen Sulphide (H2S)

P (a)

P

P

Stack emissions from Flares and Thermal Oxidizers

 

P

P (d)
(flares only)

Odour

 

P

P (b)

Surface Water

P

P

P

Groundwater

P (a)

P

P

Leachate

 

P

P

Landfill Gas

P (a)

P

P

Noise

P

P

P (b)

Waste Management (c)

P

P

 

Ecology (c)

P

P

P

Landscape and Visual (c)

P

P

P

Notes:

(a)                                                The monitoring of VOCs, ammonia, H2S, groundwater and landfill gas during construction would act as baseline monitoring for operation impact

(b)                                                The monitoring and audit of dust, odour and noise in aftercare phase will only be required when there are major maintenance / maintenance works requiring excavation of waste.

(c)                                                 EM&A scope include audit works only.

(d)                                                Since the leachate quantity will be significantly decreased during aftercare phase, therefore, SBR/MBR tanks should be sufficient to treat the leachate to meet the required standards without the need to operate the thermal oxidiser.  Hence, stack emission monitoring will only be conducted at flares only if the thermal oxidiser is no longer in use.

The scope of the EM&A programme is to:

¡P           implement regular monitoring and site audit requirements and undertake additional or ad hoc monitoring if non-compliance identified;

¡P           evaluate and interpret all environmental monitoring data on a regular basis to provide an early indication should any of the environmental control measures or practices fail to achieve the required performance standards, and to verify the environmental impacts predicted in the EIA Report taking account of the latest design;

¡P           liaise with, and provide environmental advice (as requested or when otherwise necessary) to construction/operation site staff on the comprehension and consequences of the environmental audit;

¡P           identify and resolve environmental issues that may arise from the Project;

¡P           investigate environmental complaints associated with the Project;

¡P           check and evaluate the Contractor's overall environmental performance, and the effectiveness of the remedial actions; and

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

1.5                                                         Organisation and Structure of the EM&A Programme

1.5.1  Project Organisation

The proposed organisation of the personnel involved in the EM&A process is illustrated in Figure 1.5a. 

Figure 1.5a     Organisation Chart

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

¡P                     Project Proponent: Environmental Infrastructure Division, EPD

¡P                     Independent Consultants (IC):  The IC should be responsible for overseeing the Project undertaken by the Contractor and for ensuring that the Project is undertaken by the Contractor in accordance with the specification and contractual requirements.  The responsibilities for the IC include the following:

-             Verify and check the Contractor¡¦s activities and ensure that the requirements in the Contract Specifications, including the implementation and operation of the environmental mitigation measures and other aspects of the EM&A programme are fully complied with ([1]).

¡P                     Contractor:  The landfill contractor should be responsible for carrying out design, construction, operation, restoration and aftercare of the SENTX.

The Contractor should:

-             implement environmental controls and mitigation as set out in this EM&A Manual as well as any additional measures necessary for compliance with the environmental control standards;

-             assist the Project Proponent to establish an ET to undertake the monitoring and reporting of the EM&A requirements outlined in this EM&A Manual;

-             submit proposals on mitigation measures in case of exceedances of Action and Limit levels in accordance with the Event and Action Plans;

-             implement measures to reduce impact where Action and Limit levels are exceeded;

-             implement the corrective actions instructed by Project Proponent and advised by the ET;

-             participate in the site inspections undertaken by the ET and undertake any corrective actions advised by the ET; and

-             adhere to the procedures for carrying out complaint investigation.

¡P          Environmental Team (ET):  The ET should be responsible for ensuring the implementation of the mitigation measures and EM&A requirements recommended in this EM&A Manual, and report to the Project Proponent and the EPD (EIAO Authority) on all environmental aspects of the Project.   The ET should be led and managed by the ET Leader (or sometimes called Environmental Manager).  The ET Leader should have relevant education, training, knowledge, experience and professional qualifications.  The ET Leader should possess at least 7 years of experience in EM&A and/or environmental management.  The ET shall not be in any way an associated body of the Contractor or the IEC for the Project.  The ET should:

-             Monitor of the various environmental parameters as required by this or subsequent revisions to the Manual;

-             assess the EM&A data and review the success of the EM&A programme determining the adequacy of the mitigation measures implemented and the validity of the predictions in the approved EIA Report taking account of the latest design;

-             conduct site inspections to investigate and inspect the work equipment and methodologies with respect to pollution control and environmental mitigation, monitor compliance with environmental protection specifications, and to anticipate environmental issues that may require mitigation before the problem arises;

-             compile the environmental monitoring data and report the status of the general site environmental conditions and the implementation of mitigation measures resulting from site inspections;

-             review working programme and methodology, and comment as necessary;

-             investigate and evaluate complaints, and identify corrective measures;

-             advice on environmental improvement, awareness, enhancement matters, etc, on site;

-             report on the environmental monitoring and audit results and the wider environmental issues and conditions to the Project Proponent and the EPD (EIAO Authority);

-             adhere to the agreed protocols in the event of exceedances or complaints; and

-             the ET Leader will keep a contemporaneous log-book and record each and every instance or circumstance or change of circumstances which may affect the findings of approved EIA Report (taking account of the latest design) and non-compliance with the EP.

¡P                     Independent Environmental Checker (IEC):  An IEC will be appointed, as part of the IC, who should verify the overall environmental performance of the Project.  The IEC should be responsible for verifying all environmental submissions required under the EM&A programme and EP to the EPD (EIAO Authority).  The IEC should possess at least 7 years of experience in EM&A and/or environmental management.  The IEC shall not be in any way an associated body of the Contractor or the ET for the Project.

The IEC should:

-             audit 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);

-             conduct site inspections and report the audit/site inspection results and other environmental performance reviews to the Project Proponent;

-             review and verify the EM&A reports submitted by the ET;

-             review the effectiveness of environmental mitigation measures and project environmental performance;

-             check the mitigation measures recommended in this updated EM&A Manual, and ensure they are properly implemented in timely manner when required;

-             review the proposal on mitigation measures submitted by the Contractor in accordance with the EAP; and

-             adhere to the procedures for carrying out complaint investigation.

¡P             EPD:  The Authority under the EIAO, including the EPD Environmental Assessment Division and EPD Environmental Compliance Division.  The EPD will be the authority to approve all submissions under the EIAO.

1.6                                                         Structure of the EM&A Manual

The remainder of this updated EM&A Manual is set out as follows:

¡P           Section 2 sets out the EM&A general requirements;

¡P           Section 3 details the requirements for air quality monitoring;

¡P           Section 4 details the requirements for water quality and leachate monitoring;

¡P           Section 5 details the requirements for landfill gas monitoring;

¡P           Section 6 details the requirements for noise monitoring;

¡P           Section 7 details the requirements for waste management audit;

¡P           Section 8 details the requirements for ecological mitigation measures;

¡P           Section 9 details the requirements for landscape and visual impacts mitigation measures;

¡P           Section 10 describes the scope and frequency of site auditing;

¡P           Section 11 details the EM&A reporting requirements;

¡P           Annex A contains the implementation schedule summarising all applicable mitigation measures in the approved EIA Report taking account of the latest design; and

¡P           Annex B contains the monitoring and complaint log sheets.

This updated EM&A Manual is an evolving document that should be updated to maintain its relevance as the Project progresses.  The primary focus for these updates will be to ensure the impacts predicted and the recommended mitigation measures remain consistent and appropriate to the manner in which the works are to be carried out.  Any changes to the programme shall be justified by the ET Leader and verified by the IEC before submission to the EIAO Authority for approval.

 

2          EM&A General Requirements

2.1                                                         Introduction

The general requirements of the EM&A programme are described in this Section.  The scope of the programme is developed with reference to the findings and recommendations from the approved EIA Report taking account of the latest design.

2.2                                                         EM&A

The potential environmental impacts and the implementation of the recommended mitigation measures for the construction, operation, restoration and aftercare of the SENTX should be monitored through the EM&A programme specified in this EM&A Manual. 

The EM&A programme will include regular and ad hoc site inspections/ audits and environmental monitoring.  The programme also include the mechanisms to review and assess the Contractor¡¦s environmental performance, ensuring that the recommended mitigation measures have been properly implemented, and that timely resolution of received complaints are managed and controlled in a manner consistent with the recommendations of the approved EIA Report.

2.2.1  Environmental Monitoring

Baseline monitoring and impact monitoring during the construction, operation, restoration and aftercare of the SENTX should be managed by the ET.  The monitoring should be focused on the following aspects:

¡P           dust and odour impacts on air sensitive receivers;

¡P           ambient VOCs, ammonia & H2S along the SENTX Site boundary;

¡P           stack emissions from the flares of landfill gas treatment facilities and the thermal oxidisers of Leachate Treatment Plant (LTP);

¡P           water quality impacts on groundwater and surface water;

¡P           landfill gas concentration at the SENTX Site boundary; and

¡P           effluent flow and quality from the LTP, and leachate level in the landfill;

These are discussed further in Sections 3 to 10 of this EM&A Manual.

2.2.2  Compliance with Action and Limit Levels

The action and limit levels should be defined for environmental monitoring at designated monitoring locations exceeding which a prescribed response should be required.  Individual action and limit levels should be quantitatively defined for the respective environmental monitoring parameters according to the following basic principles:

Action Level

Action levels indicate deteriorating ambient environmental quality potentially due to the Project implementation.  It acts as a sign to trigger stepped up monitoring and appropriate remedial actions in order to rectify any mal-practices or non-conformance of Project activities thereby preventing the deterioration of environmental quality and to resume the ambient environmental quality back to normal levels.

Limit Level

Limit levels are the statutory and/or contractual levels above which environmental conditions are considered unacceptable.  If limit levels were exceeded, the relevant part of the works should not be continued without implementation of immediate remedial action, including a critical review of plant and working methods.

2.2.3  Event and Action Plans

The purpose of the Event and Action Plans (EAPs) is to provide, in association with the EM&A activities, procedures for ensuring that if any significant environmental incident (either accidental or through inadequate implementation of mitigation measures) on the part of the Contractor does occur, the cause should be quickly identified and remediated, and the risk of a similar event recurring is reduced.

2.2.4  Site Inspections/Audits

In addition to monitoring works as the means of assessing the ongoing environmental performance of the Project, the ET and IEC should undertake site inspections and audits of on-site practices and procedures.  The primary objectives of the site inspection and audit programme are to ensure the good site practices and mitigation measures in this updated EM&A Manual are properly implemented and to assess the effectiveness of these measures. 

The findings of site inspections and audits should be made known to the Contractor and the IEC at the time of the inspection to enable the rapid resolution of identified non-compliances.  Non-compliances, and the corrective actions undertaken, should be reported in the monthly EM&A reports.

Section 10 of this updated EM&A Manual presents details of the scope and frequency of on-site inspections and defines the range of issues that the audit protocols should be designed to address.

2.2.5  Enquiries, Complaints and Requests for Information

Enquiries, complaints and requests for information can be expected from a wide range of individuals and organisations including members of the public, Government departments, the press and television media and community groups. 

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

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

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

(c)    The ET and the Contractor should undertake the following steps, as necessary:

¡P           investigate and identify source(s) of the problem;

¡P           if considered necessary by the IEC, undertake additional monitoring to verify the existence and severity of the alleged complaint;

¡P           identify necessary remedial measures and implement as soon as possible;

¡P           repeat the monitoring to verify effectiveness of mitigation measures; and

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

(d)    The outcome of the investigation and the actions taken should be documented on a complaint proforma (see Annex B) and should be verified by the IEC.  A formal response to each complaint received should be prepared by the Contractor within a maximum of five working days and submitted to the IEC for review.  The ET should submit the formal response to the Project Proponent for approval.  The Project Proponent will notify the concerned person(s) of the findings of the complaint investigation and the actions taken, if required.

(e)    All enquiries/complaints that trigger this process should be reported in the monthly EM&A reports, which should include results of investigations undertaken by the ET and the Contractor, and details of the measures taken, and additional monitoring results (if deemed necessary).  It should be noted that the receipt of complaint or enquiry should not be, in itself, a sufficient reason to introduce additional mitigation measures. 

In all cases the complainant will be notified of the findings of the investigation.

2.2.6  Reporting

With respect to the identified potential impacts and the nature and frequency of the EM&A to be undertaken, it is considered that real-time reporting of the monitoring data through a dedicated website is not applicable.  However, the monitoring data should be uploaded to the Project website at regular interval to be agreed by the EPD (EIAO Authority), Contractor and the Project Proponent. 

Monthly EM&A reports prepared by the ET should be certified by the ET Leader and verified by the IEC prior to submission to the Project Proponent and EPD (EIAO Authority).  The monthly EM&A reports should be prepared and submitted within 10 working days of the end of each reporting month.  Additional details on reporting protocols are presented in Section 10.

2.2.7  Cessation of EM&A

The ET will continue to manage the environmental monitoring and site inspection/audit until completion of the Project (i.e. until the completion of the aftercare period).

 

3          aIR qUALITY

3.1                                                         Introduction

The general requirements, methodology, equipment, and mitigation measures for the monitoring and audit of potential air quality impacts associated with different phases of the Project are described in this Section.  The air quality monitoring parameters includes:

¡P         Dust;

¡P         Ambient volatile organic compounds (VOCs), ammonia and hydrogen sulphide (H2S);

¡P         Odour;

¡P         Emission from the thermal oxidiser of the LTP;

¡P         Emission from LFG flares; and

¡P         Emission from LFG generator.

The requirements of setting up a meteorological station are also described in this Section.  

The mitigation measures recommended to control air quality impacts are summarised in Annex A.

3.2                                                         Dust

3.2.1  Introduction

Monitoring of the Total Suspended Particulates (TSP) levels should be carried out to ensure that construction works and operation/ restoration of SENTX will not cause adverse dust impacts to the identified air sensitive receivers.  During the aftercare phase, monitoring of dust should also be conducted when there are major maintenance works.  Timely action should be taken to rectify the situation if an exceedance is detected.

All relevant data including temperature, pressure, weather conditions, elapsed-time meter reading for the start and stop of the sampler, identification and weight of the filter paper, any other special phenomena and work progress of the concerned site should be recorded.  A sample data log sheet is shown in Annex B.

3.2.2  Monitoring Equipment 

A high volume air sampler in compliance with the following specifications should be used for TSP monitoring:

¡P           capable of collecting TSP in the range of 10 to 750 µg m-3;

¡P           0.6 to 1.7 m3 min-1 (20-60 SCFM) adjustable flow range;

¡P           equipped with a timing/control device with +/- 5 minutes accuracy for 24 hours operation;

¡P           installed with elapsed-time meter with +/- 2 minutes accuracy for 24 hours operation;

¡P           capable of providing a minimum exposed area of 406 cm2 (63 in2);

¡P           flow control accuracy: +/- 2.5% deviation over 24-hr sampling period;

¡P           equipped with a shelter to protect the filter and sampler;

¡P           incorporated with an electronic mass flow rate controller or other equivalent devices calibrated against a traceable standard at regular intervals;

¡P           equipped with a flow recorder for continuous monitoring;

¡P           provided with a peaked roof inlet;

¡P           equipped with a manometer;

¡P           able to hold and seal the filter paper to the sampler housing in a horizontal position;

¡P           easy to change the filter; and

¡P           capable of operating continuously for 24-hr period.

The Contractor should be responsible for provision of the monitoring equipment, and should ensure that sufficient number of high volume air samplers and appropriate calibration kits are available for carrying out the baseline, impact and ad hoc monitoring.  All the equipment, calibration kit, filter papers, etc. should be clearly labelled.

The Contractor should calibrate the dust monitoring equipment upon installation and thereafter at bi-monthly intervals.  The transfer standard should be traceable to the internationally recognised primary standard and be calibrated annually.  The calibration data should be properly documented for future reference by concerned parties, such as the IEC.   All the data should be converted into standard temperature and pressure condition.

The flow-rate of the sampler before and after the sampling exercise with the filter in position should be verified to be constant and recorded in the data sheet as described in Section 3.2.1.

Meteorological data should be obtained from the on-site meteorological monitoring station as described in Section 3.9. 

3.2.3  Laboratory Measurement/ Analysis

A clean laboratory with constant temperature and humidity control and equipped with necessary measuring and conditioning instruments should be used for sample analysis and equipment calibration and maintenance.  The laboratory should be HOKLAS accredited.

If a site laboratory (HOKLAS accredited) is set up or a non-HOKLAS accredited laboratory is hired for carrying out the laboratory analysis, the laboratory equipment should be fully justified by ET Leader, verified by IEC and approved by EPD (EIAO Authority).  Measurement performed by the laboratory should be demonstrated to the satisfaction of the EPD (EIAO Authority) and the IEC.  The IEC should conduct regular audits of the measurements performed by the laboratory to ensure the accuracy of the results.  The ET should provide Contractor and the IEC with one copy each of the Title 40 of the Code of Federal Regulations, Chapter 1 (Part 50), Appendix B and Appendix J for reference.

Filter paper of size 8"x10" should be labelled before sampling.  It should be a clean filter paper with no pin hole and should be conditioned in a humidity controlled chamber for over 24-hr and be pre-weighed before use for the sampling.

After sampling, the filter paper loaded with dust should be kept in a clean and tightly sealed plastic bag.  The filter paper should 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 should be regularly calibrated against a traceable standard.

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

3.2.4  Monitoring Locations

Construction Phase

High volume air samplers (HVSs) should be installed at the two designated locations at ASRs (i.e. DM1 and DM2) as shown in Figure 3.2a. 

DM1 is located at TKO Fill Bank site boundary which is representative of the impact to the ASRs at the TKO industrial area including the nearest ASR TVB City.

DM2 is located at the existing TKO Fill Bank site office as TKO Fill Bank will continue to operate for the next 5 year during the construction phase of the SENTX; while the two planned ASRs which are the Construction & Demolition Material Handling Facility and the TKO Desalination Plant will not exist during construction phase of SENTX by 2021 according to the latest information available.

Operation/Restoration Phase

HVSs should be installed at the four designated locations along the site boundary (i.e. AM1, AM2, AM3 and AM4) as shown in Figure 3.2a.  Should change of location is required after issuing this EM&A Manual, the proposed alternative monitoring locations should be fully justified by ET Leader, verified by IEC and approved by EPD (EIAO Authority).

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

¡P           at the site boundary or such locations close to the major dust emission source(s);

¡P           close to the ASRs; and

¡P           taking into account the prevailing meteorological conditions.

The ET Leader should agree with the Contractor on the position of the HVSs for installation of the monitoring equipment.  When positioning the samplers, the following points should be noted:

¡P           a horizontal platform should be provided with appropriate support to secure the samplers against gusty wind;

¡P           the distance between the sampler and an obstacle, such as buildings, should be at least twice the height that the obstacle protrudes above the sampler;

¡P           a minimum of 2m separation from any supporting structure, measured horizontally is required;

¡P           no furnaces or incineration flues or building vents are nearby;

¡P           airflow around the sampler is unrestricted;

¡P           the sampler is more than 20m from the drip line;

¡P           any wire fence and gate, to protect the sampler, should not cause any obstruction during monitoring;

¡P           permission must be obtained to set up the samplers and to obtain access to the monitoring stations; and

¡P           a secured supply of electricity is needed to operate the samplers.

3.2.5  Baseline Monitoring

Construction Phase

24-hour TSP levels should be monitored at the two designated locations (i.e. DM1 and DM2), where there are two existing TSP monitoring stations operating by the Civil Engineering and Development Department (CEDD).  The recent 1 year historical data at a 6-day interval monitored by the two existing CEDD¡¦s monitoring stations prior to the commissioning of the construction works will be used to establish the baseline levels for construction phase.  It is more representative to use the recent 1 year historical data, taking into account of the seasonal variation, to establish the baseline levels.

Operation/ Restoration & Aftercare Phases

24-hour TSP levels should be monitored at the four designated locations along the site boundary (i.e. AM1, AM2, AM3 and AM4) for at least 14 consecutive days prior to the commissioning of the operation phase to establish the baseline levels for operation phase.  Prior to the commencement of the operation phase, earthworks and laying of liner should have been completed and the condition would be representative of the baseline condition prior to the operation phase.  Prior to the commencement of the construction phase, AM3 and AM4 are located within the TKO Fill Bank area and the baseline monitoring results would be affected by the dusty activities in TKO Fill Bank which will not represent the baseline condition prior to the operation phase of the SENTX.  In addition, in terms of technical feasibility, it is not practical to set up the HVSs at the four monitoring locations since there is no suitable horizontal platform or secured supply of electricity prior to the construction phase.  Before commencing the baseline monitoring, the ET leader should inform the IEC and EIAO Authority of the monitoring programme such that the IEC can conduct on-site audit of the monitoring.

In exceptional case, when insufficient baseline monitoring data or questionable results are obtained, the ET Leader should liaise with IEC to agree on an appropriate set of data to be used as a baseline reference and submit to EPD (EIAO Authority) for approval.

Ambient conditions may vary seasonally and should be reviewed at quarterly intervals.  If the ET Leader considers that the ambient conditions have been changed and repeat of the baseline monitoring is required to be carried out for obtaining the updated baseline levels, the monitoring should be conducted at times when the Contractor¡¦s activities are not generating dust, at least in the proximity of the monitoring stations.  Should changes in ambient conditions be determined, the baseline levels and, in turn, the air quality criteria, should be revised.  The revised baseline levels and air quality criteria should be fully justified by ET Leader, verified by IEC and approved by EPD (EIAO Authority).

3.2.6  Impact Monitoring

Impact monitoring should be undertaken during the construction and operation/restoration of the SENTX, and during aftercare phase if there are major maintenance works. 

Construction Phase

24-hour TSP levels should be measured at the two designated locations (i.e. DM1 and DM2) at least once every six days during the construction phase to monitor the dust impacts of construction works.   

Operation/ Restoration & Aftercare Phases

During operation/restoration phase and aftercare period when there are major maintenance works, 24-hour TSP levels should be monitored at least once every six days at four designated locations along the site boundary (i.e. AM1, AM2, AM3 and AM4).  

The specific time to start and stop the 24 hours monitoring should be clearly defined for each location and be strictly followed by the operator. 

The parameters, locations and frequency of dust monitoring are summarized in Table 3.2a.

Table 3.2a      Parameters, Locations and Frequency of Dust Monitoring

Phase

Location

Frequency

Parameter

Baseline monitoring

At two designated locations (i.e. DM1 and DM2)

Once every 6 days of the recent 1 year

¡P     24-hr TSP

 

 

At four designated locations along the SENTX site boundary (i.e. AM1, AM2, AM3 and AM4)

At least 14 consecutive days prior to the commencement of the operation phase

¡P     24-hr TSP

Construction

At two designated locations (i.e. DM1 and DM2)

Once every 6 days

¡P     24-hr TSP

Operation/ Restoration

At four designated locations along the SENTX site boundary (i.e. AM1, AM2, AM3 and AM4)

Once every 6 days

¡P     24-hr TSP

 

Aftercare

At four designated locations along the SENTX site boundary (i.e. AM1, AM2, AM3 and AM4)

Once every 6 days when there are major maintenance works

¡P     24-hr TSP

 

3.2.7  Event and Action Limits for Dust

The baseline dust monitoring results and the Air Quality Objectives (AQOs) form the basis for determining the dust criteria for impact monitoring.  The ET should compare the impact monitoring results with dust criteria.  In case of non-compliance with the dust criteria, more frequent monitoring, as specified in the EAP (see Section 3.6), should be conducted.  This additional monitoring should be continued until the non-compliance is rectified.  Actions in accordance with the EAP (see Section 3.7) should be carried out in case non-compliance occurred.

Table 3.2b      Action and Limit Levels for Dust

Parameter

Action Level

Limit Level

Construction Phase

 

 

¡P        24-hr TSP Level

 

For baseline level ≤ 200 µg m-³, Action level = (Baseline level *1.3 + Limit level)/2

For baseline level > 200 µg m-³, Action level = Limit level

260 µg m-³

Operation/Restoration Phase

 

 

¡P        24-hr TSP Level

Action level = Limit level

260 µg m-³

Aftercare Phase when there are major maintenance work

 

 

¡P        24-hr TSP Level

Action level = Limit level

260 µg m-³

3.3                                                         Ambient VOCs, Ammonia and H2S

3.3.1  Introduction

The general requirements, methodology, equipment, and mitigation measures for the monitoring and audit of ambient methane, VOCs, ammonia and H2S associated with the operation, restoration and aftercare phases of the Project are described below.  The sampling and analysis method should be prepared by the ET, in consultation with the IEC.

3.3.2  Sampling Equipment

The Contractor should be responsible for providing and maintaining a sufficient number of the following instruments for taking ambient air samples of VOCs, ammonia and H2S.

Methane

The instruments should be able to capture ambient air into inert sample containers (e.g. low flow-rate pump and tedlar bags) for direct analysis using gas chromatography.  If low flow-rate pump is used, it should be capable of maintaining a steady flow of air to collect the sample volume specified, and a rotameter of suitable range to measure flow rate during the sampling process.   

VOCs

Samples for VOCs analysis should be collected using adsorption tubes containing a solid tenax/charcoal trapping medium or pressurised canisters fixed with a flow controller, which should be able to capture the suite of VOCs as shown in Table 3.3b for laboratory analysis. 

Ammonia

The sampling instruments (e.g. low flow-rate pump and silica gel sampling tubes) should be able to collect samples for the laboratory analysis for measuring ammonia concentrations in between the range of 0.02 to 2 mg m-3.

H2S

Cadmium hydroxide solution was used as the absorbing solution to collect H2S in air with mid-get impringer.  The air sampling flow rate was set at 1.5 L/min. 

3.3.3  Laboratory Measurement/Analysis

Air samples collected for laboratory analysis of should be transported to HOKLAS registered laboratories within 24 hours and analysed within 48 hours.  The following analytical methods should be used:

¡P      Methane ¡V gas chromatography with thermal conductivity detection or non dispersion infrared spectroscopy or equivalent method approved by the IEC;

¡P      VOCs ¡V gas chromatography with mass selective detection or mass spectrophotometry or equivalent method approved by the IEC;

¡P      Ammonia ¡V NIOSH method S347 or equivalent method approved by the IEC; and

¡P      H2S ¡VUS NIOSH P&CAM Method 126 or equivalent method approved by the IEC.

The required detection limits for the methane, VOCs, ammonia and H2S are detailed in Table 3.3a.

Table 3.3a      Analytical Detection Limits for VOCs and Ammonia (a)

Analytical Parameters (b)

Detection Limit (c)

Ammonia

0.02 mg m-3

Methane

0.0025%

Methanethiol

27 ppb

Ethanethiol

1,400 ppb

Butanethiol

1,400 ppb

Trichloroethylene

0.6 ppb

Vinyl Chloride

2.0 ppb

Benzene

2.0 ppb

Methylene Chloride

1.0 ppb

Chloroform

0.8 ppb

1,2-dichloroethane

0.2 ppb

Carbon tetrachloride

0.2 ppb

Tetrachloroethylene

0.2 ppb

1,1,1- trichloroethane

0.5 ppb

1,2-dibromoethane

0.5 ppb

All other VOCs

0.25 µg m-3

H2S

1 ppb

Notes:

(a)   Reference to the detection limit adopted in the existing SENT Landfill.

(b)   Please refer to the footnote (b) of Table 3.3b for a full list of 40 VOCs to be monitored.

(c)    For parameters not specified in this table, the detection limit should be 0.25 µg m-3 or better with the exception of methane which shall be 0.0025% or better.

3.3.4  Monitoring Parameter, Location and Frequency

Quarterly monitoring for a period of 12 months prior to waste filling should be conducted to establish the baseline ambient methane, VOCs, ammonia and H2S concentrations prior to landfilling operation.  Impact monitoring should be undertaken throughout the operation/restoration and aftercare phases of the SENTX and should not be conducted on rainy day.  The monitoring frequency, locations, and parameters are summarised in Table 3.3b.

 

Table 3.3b      Monitoring Parameters, Locations and Frequency of Ambient VOCs, Ammonia and H2S Monitoring

Phase

Monitoring Locations

Monitoring Frequency

Parameters

Baseline Monitoring

 

4 locations along the SENTX Site Boundary (a)

Quarterly, for a period of 12 months prior to waste filling

 

¡P     Methane

¡P     Ammonia

¡P     A suite of VOCs (b)

¡P     H2S

Operation/ Restoration/Aftercare

4 locations along the SENTX Site Boundary (a)

Quarterly, throughout operation/restoration and aftercare phases

 

¡P     Methane

¡P     Ammonia

¡P     A suite of VOCs (b)

¡P     H2S

Notes:

(a)                See Figure 3.2a for the proposed locations.

(b)                A suite of VOCs includes:

¡P        Trichloroethylene

¡P        Vinyl chloride

¡P        Methylene chloride

¡P        Chloroform

¡P        1,2-dichloroethane

¡P        1,1,1-trichloroethane

¡P        Carbon tetrachloride

¡P        Tetrachloroethylene

¡P        1,2-dibromoethane

¡P        Benzene

¡P        Toluene

¡P        Carbon disulphide

¡P        Propyl benzene

¡P        Ethyl benzene

¡P       Butyl benzene

¡P       Xylenes

¡P       Decanes

¡P       Undecane

¡P       Limonene

¡P       Terpenes

¡P       Ethanol

¡P       Butan-2-ol

¡P       Dimethylsulphide

¡P       Methyl propionate

¡P       Ethyl propionate

¡P       Propyl propionate

¡P       Butyl acetate

¡P       Ethyl butanoate

¡P       Dichlorobenzene

¡P       Methyl butanoate

¡P       Dipropyl ether

¡P       Methanethiol

¡P       Ethanethiol

¡P       Butanethiol

¡P       Methanol

¡P       Heptanes

¡P       Octanes

¡P       Nonanes

¡P       Dichlorodifluoro-methane

¡P       Methane

3.3.5  Limit Levels for Methane, Ambient VOCs, Ammonia and H2S Monitoring

Ambient methane, VOCs, ammonia and H2S monitoring results will be evaluated against the limit levels.  The limit levels at the SENTX boundary are defined as WHO/USEPA/CARB¡¦s ambient criteria if available or the odour thresholds or 1% of Workplace Exposure Limit (WEL) as stipulated in the ¡§UK Health and Safety Executive (HSE) EH 40/2005 Workplace Exposure Limits¡¨, whichever is lower. 

In case of exceedance of the limit levels, more frequent monitoring, as specified in the EAP (see Section 3.8) should be conducted.  This additional monitoring should be continued until the non-compliance is rectified.

3.4                                                         Emissions of the Thermal Oxidiser

3.4.1  Introduction

The performance of the thermal oxidiser should be monitored when the LTP is in operation.  The purpose of the monitoring is to ensure the thermal oxidizer is operated under its design condition and emission limits.

3.4.2  Monitoring Parameter, Location and Frequency

Gas samples should be collected from the stack of the thermal oxidiser for laboratory analysis of the parameters at a frequency as described in Table 3.4a.  In addition, the operating conditions of the thermal oxidiser should also be monitored continuously. 

Table 3.4a      Monitoring Parameters and Frequency of Stack of Thermal Oxidiser

Phase

Monitoring Frequency

Parameters

Operation/ Restoration

¡P     Monthly for the first 12 months of operation and thereafter at quarterly intervals

 

Laboratory analysis for

¡P     NO2

¡P     CO

¡P     SO2

¡P     Benzene

¡P     Vinyl chloride

In-situ analysis for

¡P       Exhaust gas velocity

 

¡P     Quarterly for the 1st year of operation (a)

Laboratory analysis for

¡P     Non-methane organic compounds

 

¡P     During commissioning and thereafter at quarterly intervals if any ammonia is detected during commissioning stage

Laboratory analysis for

¡P       ammonia

 

¡P     Continuously

 

¡P     Gas combustion temperature

¡P     Exhaust temperature

¡P     Exhaust gas velocity (b)

Notes:

(a)                                           The monitoring results will be reviewed towards the end of the first year of operation to determine if monitoring of this parameter can be terminated upon agreement by the EIAO Authority, IEC and Project Proponent.

(b)                                           The exhaust gas velocity will be calculated based on the cross-section area of the stack and continuous monitored gas flow and combustion temperature data.

Under the combustion temperature of the thermal oxidiser, all ammonia will be destroyed.  To confirm this design assumption, it is recommended that the ammonia concentration in the flue gas of the thermal oxidiser be monitored during the commissioning stage of the thermal oxidiser.  If required, an emission standard will be set for ammonia for the thermal oxidiser based on the monitoring results and to be fully justified by ET Leader, verified by IEC and approved by EPD (EIAO Authority).  If no ammonia is detected in the flue gas during the decommissioning stage, the monitoring of ammonia in the flue gas of the thermal oxidiser could be discontinued.

3.4.3  Monitoring Equipment

The Contractor should be responsible for providing and maintaining a sufficient number of the following monitoring equipment. 

Air Sampling Equipment

The sampling equipment should be able to capture emission from the stack into inert sample containers for direct analysis on a gas chromatography in the laboratory.  The method for the monitoring should be proposed by the ET and agreed with the Project Proponent in consultation with the IEC.

Gas Combustion Temperature, Exhaust Gas Temperature

A built-in monitoring system should be installed in the thermal oxidiser, which should be capable of continuous monitoring of gas combustion temperature and the exhaust gas temperature.  

3.4.4  Laboratory Analysis

Gas samples should be transferred to the analytical laboratory within 24 hours of collection and analysed within 48 hours after collection. 

Bulk gas samples should be analysed by gas chromatography for the parameters listed in Table 3.4a to detection limit of 0.0025% or lower unless other specified.  The carrier gas to be used for the analysis should be helium, hydrogen or nitrogen with a minimum purity of 99.995%. 

3.4.5  Impact Monitoring

The ET should carry out impact monitoring when the thermal oxidiser is in operation.

3.4.6  Performance Compliance 

The limit levels for NO2, CO, SO2, benzene and vinyl chloride from the stack emission and gas combustion temperature presented in Table 3.4b should be met.  The gas combustion temperature should also comply with the design parameters of the thermal oxidiser.  These parameters have been updated as per the latest design and the air quality still complies with the prevailing AQOs.  In case of non-compliance with the limit levels, more frequent monitoring and actions in accordance with the EAP (see Table 3.8b) should be carried out.

If ammonia is detected during the commissioning stage, an emission standard will be set for ammonia for the thermal oxidiser based on the monitoring results and to be fully justified by ET Leader, verified by IEC and approved by EPD (EIAO Authority). 

Table 3.4b      Limit Levels for Stack Emission of the Thermal Oxidiser

Parameter

Limit Level

NO2

1.58 gs-1

CO

0.53 gs-1

SO2

0.07 gs-1

Benzene

3.01 x 10-2 gs-1

Vinyl chloride

2.23 x 10-3 gs-1

Gas combustion temperature

850oC (minimum)

Exhaust gas exit temperature

443K (minimum) (a)

Exhaust gas velocity

7.5 ms-1 (minimum) (a)

Note:

(a)   Level under full load condition.

3.5                                                         Emissions of Landfill Gas Flare

3.5.1  Introduction

The performance of the landfill gas flares should be monitored when they are in operation.  The purpose of the monitoring is to ensure the flares are operated in compliance with their design conditions and emissions standards.

3.5.2  Monitoring Parameter and Frequency

The operating conditions (i.e. gas combustion temperature and exhaust gas velocity) of the flare should be monitored continuously.  Exhaust gas samples should be collected for laboratory analysis of NO2, CO, SO2, benzene and vinyl chloride.  Table 3.5a summarised the monitoring parameters, locations and frequency of the emissions from the flares. 

Table 3.5a      Monitoring Parameters, Location and Frequency of Stack of the Flares

Phase

Monitoring Frequency

Parameters

Operation/ Restoration and aftercare

¡P     Monthly for the first 12 months of operation and thereafter at quarterly intervals (a)

 

Laboratory analysis for

¡P     NO2

¡P     CO

¡P     SO2

¡P     Benzene

¡P     Vinyl chloride

In-situ analysis for

¡P     Exhaust gas velocity

 

¡P     Quarterly for the 1st year of operation (b)

Laboratory analysis for

¡P     Non-methane organic compounds

 

¡P     Continuously

¡P     Gas combustion temperature

¡P     Exhaust temperature

¡P     Exhaust gas velocity (c)

Notes:

(a)   Reduction of monitoring frequency will be subject to the monitoring results to demonstrate environmentally acceptable performance.

(b)   The monitoring results will be reviewed towards the end of the first year of operation to determine if monitoring of this parameter can be terminated upon agreement by the EIAO Authority, IEC and Project Proponent.

(c)    Exhaust gas velocity will be calculated based on the cross-section area of the stack and continuous monitored gas flow and combustion temperature data.

3.5.3  Monitoring Equipment and Laboratory Analysis

The monitoring equipment and laboratory analysis requirements are the same as those for thermal oxidiser (see Sections 3.4.3 and 3.4.4)

3.5.4  Impact Monitoring

The Contractor should carry out impact monitoring when the flares are in operation.

3.5.5  Performance Compliance 

The limit levels for NO2, CO, SO2, benzene and vinyl chloride from the stack emissions and gas combustion temperature presented in Table 3.5b should be met.  The gas combustion temperature should also comply with the design parameters of the flares.  These parameters have been updated as per the latest design and the air quality still comply with the prevailing AQOs.  In case of non-compliance with the action levels, more frequent monitoring and actions in accordance with the EAP (see Table 3.8b) should be carried out.

Table 3.5b      Limit Levels for Gas Flare Stack Emission

Parameter

Limit Level

NO2

0.97 gs-1

CO

2.43 gs-1

SO2

0.22 gs-1

Benzene

4.14 x 10-4 gs-1

Vinyl Chloride

2.60 x 10-4 gs-1

Gas combustion temperature

815oC (minimum)

Exhaust gas exit temperature

923 K (minimum) (a)

Exhaust gas velocity

9.0 m s-1 (minimum) (a)

Note:

(a)   Level under full load condition

 

3.6                                                         Emissions of LFG Generator

3.6.1  Introduction

The performance of the LFG generator should be monitored.  The purpose of the monitoring is to ensure that the generators are operated in compliance with their design conditions and emissions standards.

3.6.2  Monitoring Parameter and Frequency

The operating conditions (ie gas combustion temperature and exhaust gas velocity) of the generator stack should be monitored continuously.  Exhaust gas samples should be collected for laboratory analysis of NO2, CO, SO2, benzene and vinyl chloride.  Table 3.6a summarised the monitoring parameters, locations and frequency of the emissions from the generator stack.

Table 3.6a      Parameter, Location and Frequency of Stack of the LFG Generator

 

Phase

Monitoring Frequency

Parameters

Operation/ Restoration and aftercare

¡P     Monthly for the first 12 months of operation and thereafter at quarterly intervals (a)

 

Laboratory analysis for

¡P     NO2

¡P     CO

¡P     SO2

¡P     Benzene

¡P     Vinyl chloride

In-situ analysis for

¡P        Exhaust gas velocity

 

¡P     Quarterly for the 1st year of operation (b)

Laboratory analysis for

¡P        Non-methane organic compounds

 

¡P     Continuously

¡P     Exhaust temperature

¡P     Exhaust gas velocity (c)

 

Notes:

(a)   Reduction of monitoring frequency will be subject to the monitoring results to demonstrate environmentally acceptable performance.

(b)   The monitoring results will be reviewed towards the end of the first year of operation to determine if monitoring of this parameter can be terminated upon agreement by the EPD (EIAO Authority), IEC and Project Proponent.

(c)    Continuous monitoring of exhaust gas velocity will be calculated based on the cross-section area of the stack and continuous monitored gas flow and combustion temperature data.

3.6.3  Monitoring Equipment and Laboratory Analysis

The monitoring equipment and laboratory analysis requirements are the same as those for thermal oxidiser (see Sections 3.4.3 and 3.4.4)

3.6.4  Impact Monitoring

The Contractor should carry out impact monitoring when the generator is in operation.

3.6.5  Performance Compliance

The limit levels for NO2, CO, SO2, benzene and vinyl chloride from the stack emissions as presented in Table 3.6b should be met.  The gas combustion temperature should comply with the design parameters of the generator.  These parameters have been updated as per the latest design and the air quality still complies with the prevailing AQOs.  In case of non-compliance with the action levels, more frequent monitoring and actions in accordance with the EAP (see Table 3.8b) should be carried out.

Table 3.6b      Limit Levels for LFG Generator Stack Emission

Parameter

Limit Level

NO2

1.91 g s-1

CO

2.48 g s-1

SO2

0.528 g s-1

Benzene

2.47 x 10-4 g s-1

Vinyl chloride

1.88 x 10-5 g s-1

Gas combustion temperature

450oC (minimum)

 

Exhaust gas exit temperature

723K (minimum) (a)

 

Exhaust gas velocity

30.0 ms-1 (minimum) (a)

 

Note:

(a)   Level under full load condition.

 

3.7                                                         ODOUR

3.7.1  Introduction

The effectiveness of the odour mitigation measures should be monitored to ensure that the operation of the SENTX will not cause unacceptable odour impact on the ASRs.  This Section describes the EM&A requirements with respect to odour control.

3.7.2  Odour Patrol

Odour patrol should be carried out during the operation/restoration phase.  Odour patrol should commence once the SENTX starts receiving waste.  During aftercare phase, when there are maintenance works that require excavation of waste, odour patrol should also be undertaken.

Daily odour patrol should be conducted jointly by the ET and the IEC who should have a specific sensitivity to a reference odour (i.e. on reference materials n-butanol with the concentration of 50ppm in nitrogen (v/v)).  The odour intensity detected should be based on that determined by the IEC.  The patrol frequency shall be 3 times per day and conducted daily during the first month of operation and reduce to weekly for another three months should odour not being detected in the first month and no valid odour complaint cases are received.  The patrol frequency shall be reviewed after the 4-month patrol and reduce to monthly interval thereafter subject to the patrol findings and odour complaint record.  Since 6 January 2016, the SENT Landfill has been receiving construction waste only, which is significantly less odorous and no substantiated odour complaint against SENT Landfill were received in 2016 and 2017.  It is therefore considered appropriate to relax the monitoring frequency to monthly, which are made reference to the odour patrol requirement in other waste treatment facilities, including Sludge Treatment Facility, Organic Waste Treatment Facility Phase 1 and Integrated Waste Management Facilities Phase 1. 

Each proposed change of odour frequency shall be justified by the ET Leader and verified by the IEC and will be subject to agreement with Project Proponent and EPD (EIAO Authority).

In addition, an independent party (who should be a trained personnel/ competent person as described in Section 3.7.3) should be appointed to undertake odour patrol together with the ET and the qualified panellist from the IEC at monthly interval.  During these patrols, the odour intensity detected should be based on that determined by the independent third party.

The parameter, location and frequency of odour patrol are summarised in Table 3.7a.

Table 3.7a      Parameter, Location and Frequency for Odour Patrol

Phase

Patrol Locations

Patrol Frequency (a)

Parameters

Operation/ Restoration

Patrol along the SENTX Site Boundary

Period 1 - First month of operation

Daily, three times a day in the morning, afternoon and evening/night (between 18:00 and 22:00 hrs) conducted by the ET and the IEC

 

Three times per week on different days conducted by an independent third party together with the ET and IEC (b)

 

Period 2 - Three months following period 1 (c)

 

Weekly conducted by the ET and the IEC

 

Once every two weeks conducted by an independent third party together with the ET and IEC (b)

 

Period 3 - Throughout operation following period 2 (c)

Monthly conducted by the ET and the IEC

 

Quarterly conducted by an independent third party together with the ET and IEC (b)

Odour Intensity (see Table 3.7b)

Aftercare

Patrol along the SENTX Site Boundary

Weekly or at least once (c) when there are maintenance works required excavation of waste

Odour Intensity (see Table 3.7b)

Notes:

(a)                                           Reduction of monitoring frequency will be subject to the monitoring results to demonstrate environmentally acceptable performance.

(b)                                           Patrol shall be scheduled so that they are carried out together with the patrols to be carried out jointly by the ET and the IEC.

(c)                                            Commencement of each period will be justified by the ET Leader and verified by the IEC and will be subject to agreement with the EPD (EIAO Authority) and Project Proponent.

(d)                                           At least once during the maintenance work if the work lasts less than a week.

Odour patrol should be carried out along the SENTX Site boundary.  The odour intensities detected should be categorised as in Table 3.7b.

Table 3.7b      Odour Intensity Level

Class 

Odour Intensity

Description

0

Not Detected

No odour perceived or an odour so weak that it cannot be easily characterised or described.  

1

Slight

Identified odour, slight

2

Moderate

Identified odour, moderate

3

Strong

Identified odour, strong

4

Extreme

Severe odour

Odour patrol should be conducted by trained personnel / competent persons patrolling and sniffing along the SENTX Site boundary to detect any odour.  The trained personnel / competent persons shall:

¡P                     Have their individual odour threshold of n-butanol in nitrogen gas in the range of 20 to 80 ppb/v required by the Europoean Standard Method (EN 13725);

¡P                     Be free from any respiratory diseases;

¡P                     Not be allowed to smoke, eat, drink (except water) or use chewing gum or sweets 30 minutes before and during the odour patrol; and

¡P                     Take great care not to cause any interference with their own perception or that of others by lack of personal hygiene or the use of perfumes, deodorants, body lotions or cosmetics.

The trained personnel/competent persons shall use their noise (olfactory sensors) to sniff odours along the patrol route.  The main odour emission sources and the areas to be affected by the odour nuisance shall be identified.

3.7.3  Odour Compliance

Odour Complaint

When a complaint is received regarding odour nuisance, a complaint log (see Annex B) should be completed within 24 hours and kept with the Contractor.  The form should include but not be limited to the following:

¡P      Date and time of the complaint;

¡P      Name and contact information of the complainant;

¡P      Location of where the odour nuisance occurred;

¡P      Characteristics of the odour;

¡P      Odour strength;

¡P      Meteorological conditions including temperature, wind speed, wind direction relative humidity at the time of the complaint; and

¡P      Operation activities carried out at the SENTX at the time the nuisance occurred.

Action and Limit Levels for Odour Patrol

Table 3.7c shows the action and limit levels to be used.  When the action and limit levels are triggered, investigation should be carried out to identify the cause of exceedance and actions in accordance with the EAP (see Table 3.8b) should be taken.

Table 3.7c      Action and Limit Levels for Odour

Parameter

Action Level

Limit Level

Perceived odour intensity and odour complaints

¡P                     Odour intensity ≥ Class 2 recorded; or

¡P                     One documented complaint received

¡P                     Odour intensity ≥ Class 3 recorded on 2 consecutive patrol (a) (b)

 

Notes:

(a)           i.e. either Class 3-strong or Class 4-extreme odour intensity.

(b)           The exceedances of the odour intensity do not need to be recorded at the same location.

3.8                                                         Event and Action Plan

3.8.1  Construction Phase

In case of non-compliance with the dust criteria mentioned in the above sections, more frequent monitoring, as specified in Table 3.8a should be conducted within 24 hours after the result is obtained.  This additional monitoring should be continued until the dust levels fall within the compliance level.

3.8.2  Operation/Restoration and Aftercare Phase

The ET should take the following actions during operation/restoration and aftercare phases of the SENTX when action/limit levels are exceeded:

¡P      Inform the IEC, Contractor and Project Proponent of the exceedence and any known circumstances associated with the exceedance within 24 hours;

¡P      Investigate the cause of exceedance; and

¡P      Implement the EAP as shown in Table 3.8b.


Table 3.8a  Event and Action Plan for Dust Monitoring During Construction Phase

Action

Event

ET

IEC

Contractor

 

Action Level

 

 

 

 

Exceedance for one sample

 

¡P     Identify the source(s) and investigate the cause(s) of exceedance

¡P     Prepare Notification of Exceedance within 24 hours

¡P     Inform Contractor, IEC and Project Proponent whether the cause of exceedance is due to the Project

¡P     Repeat measurement to confirm finding if exceedance is due to the Project

¡P     Increase monitoring frequency to daily if exceedance is due to the Project and continue until the monitoring results reduce to below action level

 

¡P                                             Verify the Notification of Exceedance

¡P                                             Check monitoring data submitted by ET

¡P                                             Check Contractor's working methods

 

¡P                     Rectify any unacceptable practice

¡P                     Amend working methods if appropriate

 

 

 

Exceedance for two or more consecutive samples

 

 

¡P                                             Identify the source(s) and investigate the cause(s) of exceedance

¡P                                             Prepare Notification of Exceedance within 24 hours

¡P                                             Inform Contractor, IEC and Project Proponent whether the cause of exceedance is due to the Project

¡P                                             Discuss with Contractor and IEC for remedial measures required

¡P                                             Ensure remedial measures are properly implemented

¡P                                             If exceedance continues, arrange meeting with Contractor & IEC

¡P                                             Continue monitoring at daily intervals if exceedance is due to the Project

¡P                                             If no exceedance for 3 consecutive days, cease additional monitoring

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

¡P                                             Verify the Notification of Exceedance

¡P                                             Check monitoring data submitted by ET

¡P                                             Check Contractor's working methods

¡P                                             Discuss with ET and Contractor on proposed remedial measures

¡P                                             Review proposals on remedial measures

¡P                                             Audit the implementation of the remedial measures

¡P                                             Audit the effectiveness of the implemented remedial measures

¡P                                             Submit proposals for remedial measures to IEC

¡P                                             Implement the agreed proposals

¡P                                             Amend proposal if appropriate

 

 

Limit Level

 

 

 

 

Exceedance for one sample

 

¡P                     Identify the source(s) and investigate the cause(s) of exceedance

¡P                     Prepare Notification of Exceedance within 24 hours

¡P                     Inform Contractor, IEC, Project Proponent and EPD (EIAO Authority) whether the cause of exceedance is due to the Project

¡P                     Discuss with Contractor and IEC for remedial measures required

¡P                     Ensure remedial measures are properly implemented

¡P                     Repeat measurement to confirm finding if exceedance is due to the Project

¡P                     Increase monitoring frequency to daily if exceedance is due to the Project and continue until the monitoring results reduce to below limit level

 

¡P                                             Verify the Notification of Exceedance

¡P                                             Check monitoring data submitted by ET

¡P                                             Check Contractor's working methods

¡P                                             Discuss with ET and Contractor on proposed remedial measures

¡P                                             Review proposals on remedial measures

¡P                                             Audit the implementation of the remedial measures

¡P                                             Audit the effectiveness of the implemented remedial measures

¡P                      Take immediate action to avoid further exceedance

¡P                      Submit proposals for remedial measures to IEC

¡P                      Implement the agreed proposals

¡P                     Amend proposal if appropriate

 

 

Exceedance for two or more consecutive samples

¡P                                             Identify source(s) and investigate the cause(s) of exceedance

¡P                                             Prepare Notification of Exceedance within 24 hours

¡P                                             Inform Contractor, IEC, Project Proponent and EPD (EIAO Authority) the causes & actions taken for the exceedances

¡P                                             Discuss with Contractor and IEC for remedial measures required

¡P                                             Ensure remedial measures are properly implemented

¡P                                             Continue monitoring at daily intervals if exceedance is due to the Project

¡P                                             If no exceedance for 3 consecutive days, cease additional monitoring

 

¡P                                             Verify the Notification of Exceedance

¡P                                             Check monitoring data submitted by ET

¡P                                             Check Contractor's working methods

¡P                                             Discuss with ET and Contractor on proposed remedial measures

¡P                                             Review proposals on remedial measures

¡P                                             Audit the implementation of the remedial measures

¡P                                             Audit the effectiveness of the implemented remedial measures

¡P                      If exceedance due to the Project continues, consider what portion of the work is responsible and stop that portion of work until the exceedance is abated

¡P                      Take immediate action to avoid further exceedance

¡P                      Submit proposals for remedial measures to IEC

¡P                      Implement the agreed proposals

¡P                      Resubmit proposals if problem still not under control

 

 


Table 3.8b Event and Action for Air Quality Monitoring During Operation/Restoration and Aftercare Phases

Event

Action

ET

IEC

Contractor

 

Exceedance of Action/Limit Level for dust monitoring

¡P                      Identify the source(s) and investigate the cause(s) of exceedance

¡P                      Prepare the Notification of Exceedance within 24 hours

¡P                      Inform Contractor, IEC, Project Proponent and EPD (EIAO Authority) whether the cause of exceedance is due to the Project

¡P                      Discuss with Contractor and IEC for remedial measures

¡P                      Ensure remedial measures are properly implemented

¡P                      Assess effectiveness of Contractor's remedial measures and keep the Project Proponent and IEC informed of the results

¡P                      Repeat measurement to confirm finding if exceedance is due to the Project

¡P                      Increase monitoring frequency to daily and continue until the monitoring results reduce to below action level

 

¡P                                             Verify the Notification of Exceedance

¡P                                             Check monitoring data submitted by ET

¡P                                             Check Contractor's working methods

¡P                                             Discuss with ET and Contractor on proposed remedial measures

¡P                                             Review proposals on remedial measures

¡P                                             Audit the implementation of the remedial measures

¡P                                             Audit the effectiveness of the implemented remedial measures

¡P                      Take immediate action to avoid further exceedance

¡P                      Submit proposals for remedial measures to IEC

¡P                      Implement the agreed proposals

¡P                      Amend proposal if appropriate

 

 

Exceedance of Action Level for odour

¡P                      Identify source(s) and investigate the cause(s) of exceedance or complaint

¡P                      Prepare the odour complaint form or the Notification of Exceedance within 24 hours

¡P                      Inform Contractor, IEC and Project Proponent whether the cause of exceedance is due to the Project

¡P                      Discuss with Contractor and IEC for remedial measures

¡P                      Ensure remedial measures are properly implemented

¡P                      Increase monitoring frequency to daily until odour not being detected for three consecutive days

 

 

¡P                                             Verify the Notification of Exceedance

¡P                                             Check monitoring data submitted by ET

¡P                                             Check Contractor's working methods

¡P                                             Discuss with ET and Contractor on proposed remedial measures

¡P                                             Review proposals on remedial measures

¡P                                             Audit the implementation of the remedial measures

¡P                                             Audit the effectiveness of the implemented remedial measures

¡P                      Rectify any unacceptable practice

¡P                      Amend working methods as required

¡P                      Implement amended working methods, if necessary

 

 

Exceedance of Limit Level for odour

¡P                      Identify source(s) and investigate the cause(s) of exceedance or complaint

¡P                      Prepare the odour complaint form or the Notification of Exceedance within 24 hours

¡P                      Inform Contractor, IEC, Project Proponent and EPD (EIAO Authority) whether the cause of exceedance is due to the Project

¡P                      Discuss with Contractor and IEC for remedial measures

¡P                      Ensure remedial measures are properly implemented

¡P                      Assess effectiveness of Contractor's remedial measures and keep the Project Proponent and IEC informed of the results

 

¡P                                             Verify the Notification of Exceedance

¡P                                             Check with Contractor on the operating activities and implementation of odour mitigation measures

¡P                                             Discuss with ET and Contractor on proposed remedial measures

¡P                                             Review proposals on remedial measures

¡P                                             Audit the implementation of the remedial measures

¡P                                             Audit the effectiveness of the implemented remedial measures

¡P                      Rectify any unacceptable practice

¡P                      Submit proposals for remedial measures to IEC within 3 working days of notification

¡P                      Implement the agreed proposal or amend working methods as required

¡P                      Resubmit proposals if problem still not under control

 

 

Exceedance of Limit Level for ambient VOCs, ammonia and H2S at the monitoring locations

¡P                      Identify the source(s) and investigate the cause(s) of exceedance

¡P                      Prepare the Notification of Exceedance within 24 hours

¡P                      Inform Contractor, IEC, Project Proponent and EPD (EIAO Authority) whether the cause of exceedance is due to the Project

¡P                      Discuss with Contractor and IEC for remedial measures

¡P                      Ensure remedial measures are properly implemented

¡P                      Assess effectiveness of Contractor's remedial measures and keep the Project Proponent and IEC informed of the results

¡P                      Repeat measurement to confirm finding if exceedance is due to the Project

¡P                      Increase monitoring frequency to monthly and continue until the monitoring results reduce to below limit level

 

 

 

 

¡P                                             Verify the Notification of Exceedance

¡P                                             Check with Contractor on the operating activities and implementation of landfill gas control measures

¡P                                             Discuss with ET and Contractor on proposed remedial measures

¡P                                             Review proposals on remedial measures

¡P                                             Audit the implementation of the remedial measures

¡P                                             Audit the effectiveness of the implemented remedial measures

¡P                      Rectify any unacceptable practice

¡P                      Amend working methods as required

¡P                      Implement amended working methods, if necessary

 

 

Exceedance of Limit Level of stack emission of the thermal oxidizer, flares and generator

¡P                      Identify source(s) and investigate the cause(s) of exceedance

¡P                      Prepare the Notification of Exceedance within 24 hours

¡P                      Inform Contractor, IEC, Project Proponent and EPD (EIAO Authority) whether the cause of exceedance is due to the Project

¡P                      Discuss with Contractor and IEC for remedial measures

¡P                      Ensure remedial measures are properly implemented

¡P                      Assess effectiveness of Contractor's remedial measures and keep the Project Proponent and IEC informed of the results

¡P                      Repeat measurement to confirm finding if exceedance is due to the Project

¡P                      Increase monitoring frequency to monthly when there are two consecutive exceedances and continue until the monitoring results reduce to below limit level

 

¡P                                             Verify the Notification of Exceedance

¡P                                             Check with Contractor on the operation performance of the stack

¡P                                             Discuss with ET and Contractor on proposed remedial measures

¡P                                             Review proposals on remedial measures

¡P                                             Audit the implementation of the remedial measures

¡P                                             Audit the effectiveness of the implemented remedial measures

¡P                      Rectify any unacceptable performance

¡P                      Amend design as required

¡P                      Implement amended design, if necessary

 

 


3.9                                                         Meteorological Data

3.9.1  Introduction

The potential environmental impacts of the SENTX in many cases can be influenced by the weather conditions.  Meteorological data should be collected and used to support the interpretation of environmental monitoring results and to assess the sufficiency of the landfill operational control by establishing on-site meteorological monitoring station.

3.9.2  Measurement Parameters and Location 

General meteorological data should be gathered to establish background information.  It should be capable for continuously monitoring throughout the construction, operation/ restoration phase and aftercare phases. 

The location of meteorological monitoring station should be proposed by the ET, in consultation with the IEC.  It should be constructed in a location that can collect representative data and not be influenced by the landfill operation.  The supporting mast should be built as far from the laboratory and LTP as practicable to eliminate the possibility of interference due to turbulence generated in the vicinity of the buildings.  The measurement details are listed in Table 3.8a.

Table 3.8a      Measurement of Meteorological Data

Phase

Monitoring Frequency

Parameters

Construction/ Operation/ Restoration and Aftercare

Continuously

 

 

¡P     Wind Speed

¡P     Wind Direction

¡P     Air Temperature

¡P     Barometric Pressure

¡P     Rainfall

¡P     Relative Humidity

3.9.3  Monitoring Equipment

The meteorological station should comprise the following equipment:

¡P           Control module;

¡P           Temperature and relative humidity probe with radiation shield;

¡P           Rain gauge;

¡P           Wind direction gauge;

¡P           Wind speed monitor;

¡P           Barometer;

¡P           Supporting mast with sufficient height; and

¡P           Weather-proof box which enclosed all control and logging equipment.

For installation and operation of wind data monitoring equipment, the following points should be observed:

¡P           the wind sensors should be installed on masts at least 10m above ground so that they are clear of obstructions or turbulence caused by the buildings;

¡P           the wind data should be captured by a data logger to be down-loaded for processing at least once a month; and

¡P           wind direction should be divided into 16 sectors of 22.5 degrees each.

The supporting mast should be securely erected to minimise movement.  The mast should be vertical and that the wind direction vane is correctly aligned and the alignment of the vane should be checked regularly.

In exceptional situations, the ET may propose alternative methods to obtain representative wind data which the proposal should be justified by ET Leader, agreed with IEC and approved by EPD (EIAO Authority).

All equipment should be calibrated before it is mounted to the meteorological station.  They should be calibrated at least once a year with data from the Hong Kong Observatory or other sources approved by the EPD (EIAO Authority).

3.9.4  Data Logging and Management

A control module should be capable for controlling the measurement and data logging of the meteorological data at a specified time interval.  The control module should be configured to sample wind speed and direction every minute and log the hourly average.  Temperature readings should be logged every 10 minutes.  Relatively humidity and total rainfall are logged every hour.  Barometric pressure tendencies should be logged on an hourly basis.

The meteorological information should be relayed to and stored on the Contractor¡¦s computer system.  This information should be reviewed on a weekly basis to ensure the data is reasonable and as a means of indicating any malfunction of the equipment and transfer process.

 

4          Water quality

4.1                                                         Introduction

This Section describes the monitoring and audit requirements with respect to water quality during the construction, operation/restoration and aftercare phases of the SENTX. 

The mitigation measures recommended to control water quality impacts are summarised in Annex A.

4.2                                                         Surface Water

Monitoring of surface water shall be carried out during the construction, operation/restoration and aftercare phases of the SENTX to ensure that the SENTX will not cause adverse water quality impact. 

4.2.1  Monitoring Parameters, Locations and Frequency

The quality of the surface water discharged from all surface water discharge points (see Figure 3.2a) should be monitored during the construction, operation/restoration and aftercare of the SENTX.  The monitoring frequency and parameters are presented in Table 4.2a. 

Table 4.2a      Surface Water Monitoring Parameters and Frequency

Phase

Monitoring Locations (a)

Monitoring Frequency

Parameters

Baseline

Surface water discharge points DP3 and DP4

3 days per week for 4 consecutive weeks (b)

 

¡P     pH

¡P     Electrical conductivity (EC)

¡P     DO

¡P     SS

¡P     COD

¡P     BOD5

¡P     TOC

¡P     Ammoniacal¡Vnitrogen

¡P     Nitrate-nitrogen

¡P     Nitrite¡Vnitrogen

¡P     TKN

¡P     TN

¡P     Phosphate

¡P     Sulphate

¡P     Sulphide

¡P     Carbonate

¡P     Oil & Grease

 

¡P     Bicarbonate

¡P     Chloride

¡P     Sodium

¡P     Potassium

¡P     Calcium

¡P     Magnesium

¡P     Nickel

¡P     Manganese

¡P     Chromium

¡P     Cadmium

¡P     Copper

¡P     Lead

¡P     Iron

¡P     Zinc

¡P     Mercury

¡P     Boron

 

Construction

Surface water discharge points DP3, DP4 and DP6

 

Weekly  

¡P     pH

¡P     DO

¡P     SS

 

Operation/ Restoration/Aftercare

Surface water discharge points DP3, DP4 and DP6

 

Monthly 

Same as the baseline monitoring

 

Notes:

(a)   The current DP4 for SENT Landfill will be relocated to a new position for SENTX, as shown in Figure 3.2a.  Although the location is different, the catchment of the new DP4 location is similar to the existing catchment.  Hence, it is still recommended that baseline monitoring shall be taken at the current DP4 location.  As the catchment of the new DP6 will be from the hillside, similar to the current DP4 catchment, the baseline data will be used to set the action and limit level for DP6.

(b)   If no flow is recorded during the monitoring period, ongoing monitoring data from the SENT Landfill contract for at least 12 months prior to SENTX construction shall be referenced.

4.2.2  Monitoring Equipment

The measurements of pH, EC and DO should be undertaken in situ.  The following equipment should be used.  The use of similar equipment is subject to prior approval from the IEC.

pH Meter

A portable pH meter capable of measuring a range between 0.0 and 14.0 (eg Orion Model 250A or an approved similar instrument) should be used to measure pH on site.

Electrical Conductivity Meter

A portable EC meter capable to show four significant figures should be provided to measure the EC on site.

Dissolved Oxygen Meter

A portable, weatherproof DO meter capable of measuring DO levels in the range of 0 ¡V 20 mg L-1 and 0 ¡V 200% saturation; and a temperature of 0 ¡V 45 degrees Celsius should be used (eg YSI model 59 meter, YSI 5739 probe, YSI 5795A submersible stirrer with reel and cable or similar approved equipment).  Spare electrodes and cables should be provided during the on-site monitoring.

Water Sampling Equipment

Samples should be obtained from the surface water body using an open mouthed vessel with a lip (for pouring into sample containers).  A glass or polyethylene vessel is used according to the container type. 

Water Sample Containers

The types and size of containers to be used for storage of water samples for laboratory analysis will depend upon the parameters to be analysed.  The laboratory should be consulted with the appropriate types of container to be used.  All bottles should be fitted with a screw cap with inert plastic liner. 

In situ monitoring instruments should be checked, calibrated and certified by a laboratory accredited under HOKLAS or other international accreditation scheme before use, and subsequently re-calibrated at 3 monthly intervals.  Responses of sensors and electrodes should be checked with certified standard solutions before each use.  Calibration for DO meter shall be carried out before measurement according to the instruction manual of the equipment model which is considered adequate for the type of DO meter employed.

For the on-site calibration of field equipment, the requirements of the BS 1427:1993, ¡§Guide to Field and on-site test methods for the analysis of waters¡¨ should be observed. 

4.2.3  Laboratory Measurement / Analysis

Analysis of surface water samples should be carried out by HOKLAS accredited laboratory.  The analyses should follow the standard methods as described in American Public Health Association (APHA) ¡§Standard Methods for the Examination of Water and Wastewater, 19th Edition¡¨ or ¡§Annual Book of American Society for Testing and Materials Standards, Vol 11.01 & 11.02¡¨ or equivalent methods approved by the EPD (EIAO Authority).  The SS determination should follow TSS-SM25400 or equivalent methods subject to approval of the EIAO Authority.

If a site laboratory (HOKLAS accredited) is set up or a non-HOKLAS accredited laboratory is hired for carrying out the laboratory analysis, the laboratory equipment, analytical procedures, and quality control should be fully justified by ET Leader, verified by IEC and approved by EPD (EIAO Authority).  The analysis should be witnessed by the IEC. 

The detection limits for each parameter are shown in Table 4.2b.  The analysis works should be undertaken within 24 hours after collection of the water samples.

Table 4.2b      Analytical Detection Limit for Specific Analytical Parameters for Surface Water

Parameter

Analytical Detection Limit (mg L-1)

COD

2

BOD5

2

Total Organic Carbon

1

Sodium

0.05

Potassium

0.05

Calcium

0.05

Magnesium

0.05

Carbonate

1

Bicarbonate

1

Nickel

0.001

Manganese

0.001

Nitrate-nitrogen

0.01

Nitrite-nitrogen

0.01

Sulphate

1

Phosphate

0.01

Chloride

1

Sulphide

0.1

Chromium

0.001

Cadmium

0.0002

Copper

0.001

Lead

0.001

pH

0.1

Electrical Conductivity

1

Iron

0.04

Zinc

0.01

Ammoniacal ¡V nitrogen

0.1

Suspended Solids

1

Dissolved Oxygen

0.1

Oil & Grease

5

Mercury

0.002

Boron

0.01

TKN

0.1

Total Nitrogen 

0.1

4.2.4  Baseline Monitoring

Baseline conditions for water quality should be established and agreed with the EPD (EIAO Authority) prior to the commencement of construction works and shall be reviewed after full restoration of SENT Landfill.  The purpose of the baseline monitoring is to establish ambient conditions prior to the commencement of the construction works and to demonstrate the suitability of the proposed impact, control and reference monitoring stations.  The baseline conditions should be established by measuring referencing the water quality parameters listed in Table 4.2a.  The measurement should be taken at the designated surface water discharge points for 3 days per week for 4 consecutive weeks prior to commencement of the works.  The interval between two sets of monitoring should not be less than 36 hours.  If no flow is recorded during the baseline monitoring period, the ongoing monitoring data of DP3 and DP4 (at least 12 months prior to SENTX construction) shall be referenced.

There should not be any construction activities, as far as practicable, in the vicinity of the monitoring points during the baseline monitoring.

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

Baseline monitoring schedule should be submitted to IEC and EPD (EIAO Authority) at least one week before the commencement of the monitoring.

4.2.5  Impact Monitoring

During the construction, operation/restoration and aftercare phases of the SENTX, surface water monitoring should be undertaken according to the parameters, frequencies, and duration described in Table 4.2a. 

4.2.6  Compliance Requirements

Action and Limit Levels for Surface Water (Construction Phase)

The surface water quality criteria during construction phase are shown in Table 4.2c.  Any noticeable change to water quality should be investigated and remedial actions should be undertaken to minimise the impacts. 

Table 4.2c      Action/Limit Levels for Surface Water Quality (Construction Phase)

Parameters

Action Level

Limit Level

DO

< 5%-ile of baseline data

< 1%-ile of baseline data

Suspended Solids

> 95%-ile of baseline data

> 99%-ile of baseline data

pH

> 95%-ile of baseline data

> 99%-ile of baseline data

Limit Levels for Surface Water Quality (Operation/ Restoration and Aftercare Phases)

Water quality monitoring will be assessed against the limit levels for COD and ammoniacal-nitrogen during operation, restoration and aftercare phases (see Table 4.2d).  For any action level triggered, the ET will review potential cause of the exceedance and assess whether the cause is attributed to the activities of the SENT Landfill or SENTX in accordance with Table 4.5a.  The Contractor should provide information on the activities or works being carried at the SENT Landfill and SENTX during the period when the surface water monitoring is carried out.

Table 4.2d      Limit Level for Surface Water Quality (Operation/Restoration and Aftercare Phases)

Parameter

Limit Level (mg L-1) (a)

Ammoniacal¡Vnitrogen

> 0.5 or 95%-ile of baseline data (b)

COD

> 30 or 95%-ile of baseline data (b)

Suspended Solids

> 20 or 95%-ile of baseline data (b)

Notes:

(a)   The limit levels specified for other parameters in Table 10a of the Technical Memorandum Standards for Effluents Discharged into Drainage and Sewerage Systems, Inland and Coastal Waters should also be followed

(b)   If the concentration of ammoniacal-nitrogen, COD and SS exceeds the respective limit level during baseline monitoring, the 95%-ile should be use as a limit level during impact monitoring.

If monitoring indicates that a particular parameter has exceeded the limit level, the EAP as shown in Table 4.5a should be implemented. 

4.3                                                         Groundwater

4.3.1  Monitoring Parameters, Locations and Frequency

Groundwater level and quality of the perimeter groundwater monitoring wells (including four up-gradient wells and ten down-gradient wells, as shown in Figure 3.2a) should be monitored to establish the baseline conditions.  Monitoring should be continued throughout operation/restoration and aftercare phases. 

The monitoring parameters, locations and frequency of groundwater at different phases of the Project are shown in Table 4.3a.

Table 4.3a      Groundwater Monitoring Parameters, Locations and Frequency

Phase

Monitoring Locations

Monitoring Frequency

Parameters

Baseline monitoring (prior to operation of the SENTX)

All groundwater monitoring wells

Monthly, for a period of 12 months prior to waste filling

¡P     Water level

¡P     pH

¡P     EC

¡P     COD

¡P     BOD5

¡P     TOC

¡P     Ammoniacal¡Vnitrogen

¡P     Nitrate-nitrogen

¡P     Nitrite ¡V nitrogen

¡P     TKN

¡P     TN

¡P     Sulphate

¡P     Sulphide

¡P     Carbonate

¡P     Bicarbonate

¡P     Phosphate

 

¡P     Chloride

¡P     Sodium

¡P     Potassium

¡P     Calcium

¡P     Magnesium

¡P     Nickel

¡P     Manganese

¡P     Chromium

¡P     Cadmium

¡P     Copper

¡P     Lead

¡P     Iron

¡P     Zinc

¡P     Mercury

¡P     Boron

Operation / Restoration/ Aftercare

All groundwater monitoring wells

 

Monthly

Same as the baseline monitoring

4.3.2  Monitoring Wells and Equipment

Monitoring Wells

The Contractor should be responsible for construction of the perimeter groundwater monitoring wells at least 12 months before the operation of the SENTX so that baseline groundwater monitoring can be undertaken.  The monitoring wells should be constructed in accordance with the engineering design and should minimise the potential contamination of groundwater by various construction activities. 

Groundwater Level Measurement

A portable dip meter with 5mm accuracy should be used for measurement of groundwater level at each well.  The dip meter should have an audio and / or visual indicator of water level.  The dip meter should be calibrated at least once a month.

Groundwater Sampling Pump and Sample Filtration

A bladder pump with Teflon sampling tube should be used for purging and taking of groundwater sample from the monitoring well.  Pump that is dedicated to individual well and have adjustable discharge rates to allow low flows for sampling accuracy and high flows for purging efficiency should be considered.   A dual sampling approach for collection of both filtered and unfiltered groundwater samples will be adopted during baseline monitoring.  Should the baseline results show no significant difference between filtered and unfiltered samples only unfiltered groundwater samples will be taken during the operation/restoration and aftercare phases.

Filtered groundwater samples should be collected by filtering in the field through a 0.45 µm membrane prior to storage and analysis.  An in-line filter system connected to the tubing of the sampling pump can be used for that purpose.  In case non-disposal filter equipment are used, decontaminated between sampling locations should be conducted.

The specifications of equipment for in situ measurement of pH and EC are described in Section 4.2.3.

4.3.3  Laboratory Measurement / Analysis 

Analysis of groundwater samples should be carried out by a HOKLAS accredited laboratory.  The analyses should follow the standard methods as described in American Public Health Association (APHA) ¡§Standard Methods for the Examination of Water and Wastewater, 19th Edition¡¨ or ¡§Annual Book of American Society for Testing and Materials Standards, Vol 11.01 & 11.02¡¨ or equivalent method as approved by the EPD (EIAO Authority).

If a site laboratory (HOKLAS accredited) is set up or a non-HOKLAS accredited laboratory is hired for carrying out the laboratory analysis, the laboratory equipment, analytical procedures, and quality control should be fully justified by ET Leader, verified by IEC and approved by EPD (EIAO Authority).  The analysis should be witnessed by the IEC.  The analytical detection limits of each parameter are shown in Table 4.3b. 

Table 4.3b      Analytical Detection Limit for Specific Analytical Parameters for Groundwater

Parameter

Analytical Detection Limit (mg L-1)

 

Water

Saline Water (a)

COD

2

10

BOD5

2

2

Total Organic Carbon

1

1

Sodium

0.05

0.5

Potassium

0.05

0.2

Calcium

0.05

0.5

Magnesium

0.05

0.5

Carbonate

1

1

Bicarbonate

1

1

Nickel

0.001

0.01

Manganese

0.001

0.01

Nitrate-nitrogen

0.01

0.01

Nitrite-nitrogen

0.01

0.01

Sulphate

1

1

Chloride

1

1

Sulphide

0.1

0.1

Chromium

0.001

0.01

Cadmium

0.0002

0.001

Copper

0.001

0.01

Lead

0.001

0.01

pH

0.1

0.1

Electrical Conductivity

1

1

Iron

0.04

0.04

Zinc

0.01

0.01

Phosphate

0.01

0.01

Ammoniacal¡Vnitrogen

0.1

0.1

Mercury

0.0002

0.0002

Boron

0.01

0.01

TKN

0.1

0.1

Total Nitrogen 

0.1

0.1

Note:

(a)           Detection limits for down gradient wells with saline water.

4.3.4  Groundwater Quality Compliance

Groundwater quality monitoring should be evaluated against limit levels for COD and ammoniacal-nitrogen (see Table 4.3c).

Table 4.3c      Limit Levels for Groundwater Monitoring Parameters

Parameter

Limit Level (mg L-1)

Ammoniacal¡Vnitrogen

5 or 95%-tile of baseline data (a)

COD

30 or 95%-tile of baseline data (a)

Note:

(a)  If the concentration of ammoniacal-nitrogen and COD exceeds the respective limit level during baseline monitoring, the 95%-ile should be use as a limit level during impact monitoring.  Should this be the case, the limit level will be well specific.

If the impact monitoring indicates that the concentration of either ammoniacal-nitrogen or COD has exceeded the limit level, the EAP as shown in Table 4.5a should be implemented. 

4.4                                                         Leachate

4.4.1  Introduction

The SENTX will be designed to minimise leachate production and contain leachate within the landfill.  Leachate collected will be treated at the on-site LTP prior to discharge to the foul sewer leading to Tseung Kwan O Sewage Treatment Works (TKO STW).

Environmental monitoring related to leachate management will include monitoring leachate levels within the landfill, and leachate and effluent quality.   

4.4.2  Monitoring Parameter, Location and Frequency 

Leachate will be generated once the SENTX starts to receive waste and will continue to be generated for a considerable period after the landfill is restored.    Leachate monitoring should therefore be carried out during the operation/ restoration and aftercare phases of the SENTX.  Table 4.4a summarises the proposed locations, parameters and frequency of leachate/effluent monitoring during operation/restoration and aftercare phases.

Table 4.4a      Summary of Leachate/Effluent Monitoring Requirements

Phase

Location

Frequency

Parameter

Operation / restoration/ Aftercare

Leachate levels above the basal liner

 

Continuous

Leachate Levels

 

Effluent discharged from LTP

Daily for the first 3 months upon full operation of the LTP at wet season (Apr to Sep) and dry season (Oct to Mar), respectively and reduce to monthly thereafter subject to the monitoring results of the first 3 months for each season and agreement with the EIAO Authority, IEC and IC. (a)

On-site Measurements:

¡P     Volume

¡P     pH

¡P     Temperature

 

 

 

Laboratory analysis:

¡P     Suspended Solids

¡P     COD

¡P     BOD5

¡P     TOC

¡P     Ammoniacal¡Vnitrogen

¡P     Nitrate-nitrogen

¡P     Nitrite¡Vnitrogen

¡P     Total Nitrogen

¡P     Sulphate

¡P     Phosphate

¡P     Oil & Grease

¡P     Alkalinity

¡P     Chloride

¡P     Calcium

¡P     Potassium

¡P     Magnesium

¡P     Iron

¡P     Zinc

¡P     Copper

¡P     Chromium

¡P     Nickel

¡P     Cadmium

¡P     Boron

 

Note:

(a)   Reduction of monitoring frequency will be subject to the monitoring results to demonstrate environmentally acceptable performance.

Leachate levels above the basal liner should be measured continuously to ensure that the leachate head complies with the performance requirements and hence minimise the potential for off-site migration of leachate. 

Prior to discharge of the treated effluent from the LTP to the foul sewer leading to the TKO STW, effluent sample should be taken and analysed to ensure that it complies with the standards stipulated in the effluent discharge license issued under the Water Pollution Control Ordinance (hereafter ¡§the discharge license).  The sampling point should be at the effluent discharge point or the effluent holding tank of the LTP. 

4.4.3  Monitoring Equipment 

It is recommended that different sets of monitoring equipment such as collection vessel, sampling pump and tubes, and field meters (e.g. probes for pH and EC meters) should be used for leachate and groundwater/surface water quality monitoring.   

Leachate Levels

Leachate levels above the basal liner should be monitored continuously by pairs of pressure transducers installed on the two side slope risers fitted at each of the seven leachate collection sumps.  These are set to automatically alarm if the leachate levels reach the defined levels.  The device should be capable of accurately and precisely measuring leachate levels between 0.01 and 2.5m.  

Sample Containers

The types and size of containers to be used for storage of effluent samples for laboratory analysis will depend upon the analytical parameter and should be in accordance with the specific requirements of the specialist analytical laboratory.  Separate samples should be collected for the analysis of heavy metal (250 mL minimum), sulphides (100 mL minimum) and other determinants (1 litre minimum).  All bottles should be fitted with inert plastic inserts and have a screw cap.  For samples taken for sulphide analysis, 2 ml of 0.5 molar zinc acetate and 2 mL of 0.75 molar sodium carbonate should be added per 100 mL of sample as a preservative. 

Field Monitoring Equipment

The specification of equipment for taking in situ measurements of pH and temperature should be referred to Section 4.2.3.  Handling and calibration requirements of the in situ monitoring equipment and sample preservation prior to laboratory analysis can also refer to Section 4.2.3. 

4.4.4  Laboratory Measurement / Analysis

Analysis of effluent samples should be carried out by a HOKLAS accredited laboratory.  The analyses should follow the standard methods as described in APHA ¡§Standard Methods for the Examination of Water and Wastewater, 19th Edition¡¨ or equivalent method as approved by the IEC and EPD (EIAO Authority). 

If a site laboratory (HOKLAS accredited) is set up or a non-HOKLAS accredited laboratory is hired for carrying out the laboratory analysis, the laboratory equipment, analytical procedures, and quality control should be fully justified by ET Leader, verified by IEC and approved by EPD (EIAO Authority).  The analysis should be witnessed by the IEC.  The analytical detection limits of each parameter are shown in Table 4.4b. 

Table 4.4b      Analytical Detection Limit for Specific Analytical Parameters for Treated Effluent from the LTP

Parameter

Analytical Detection Limit (mg L-1)

COD

2

BOD5

2

Total Organic Carbon

1

Potassium

0.2

Calcium

0.5

Magnesium

0.5

Nitrate-nitrogen

0.1

Nitrite-nitrogen

0.1

Chloride

1

pH

0.1

Iron

0.04

Zinc

0.01

Alkalinity

1

Total Nitrogen

0.1

Ammoniacal ¡V nitrogen

0.1

Suspended Solids

1

Oil & Grease

5

Sulphate

5

Copper

0.01

Chromium

0.01

Nickel

0.001

Cadmium

0.001

Phosphate

0.01

Boron

0.1

4.4.5  Compliance Requirements

The Contractor is required to apply for a discharge license for discharge of treated effluent into public sewer under the Water Pollution Control Ordinance.  The discharge license will state the discharge limits for the key parameters.  The Contractor is required to ensure the quality of the treated effluent complies with the limits stipulated in the discharge license.

The leachate level at any point within the landfill should not exceed a limit level of 1 m above the primary liner of the leachate containment system. 

If the impact monitoring indicates that particular parameters have exceeded the limit levels, the EAP (see Table 4.5b) should be implemented. 

4.5                                                         Event and Action Plan for Water Quality Monitoring

4.5.1  Construction Phase

If the surface water quality monitoring indicates any non-compliance with the action/limit levels, the actions stipulated in the EAP (see Table 4.5a) should be implemented.  Any noticeable change to surface water quality should be recorded in the EM&A reports and should be investigated.  Remedial actions should be undertaken to minimise the impacts.

4.5.2  Operation/Restoration and Aftercare Phases

If the water quality monitoring result indicates exceedance of the limit levels, the actions stipulated in Table 4.5b should be taken.


Table 4.5a     Event and Action Plan for Surface Water Quality During Construction Phase

Event

Action

ET

IEC

Contractor

 

Action Level being exceeded by one sampling day

¡P     Repeat in situ measurement to confirm findings

¡P     Identify the source(s) and investigate the cause(s) of exceedance

¡P     Prepare Notification of Exceedance within 24 hours

¡P     Inform Contractor, IEC and Project Proponent whether the cause of exceedance is due to the Project

¡P     Repeat measurement on the next day of exceedance if exceedance is due to the Project

 

¡P                    Verify the Notification of Exceedance

¡P                    Check monitoring data submitted by ET

¡P                    Check Contractor's working methods

¡P                      Rectify any unacceptable practice

¡P     Amend working methods if appropriate

 

 

Action Level being exceeded by two consecutive sampling days

¡P     Repeat in situ measurement to confirm findings

¡P     Identify the source(s) and investigate the cause(s) of exceedance

¡P     Prepare Notification of Exceedance within 24 hours

¡P     Inform Contractor, IEC and Project Proponent whether the cause of exceedance is due to the Project

¡P     Discuss with Contractor and IEC for remedial measures required

¡P     Ensure remedial measures are properly implemented

¡P     Increase the monitoring frequency to daily if exceedance is due to the Project and continue until no exceedance of Action Level

 

¡P                                             Verify the Notification of Exceedance

¡P                                             Check monitoring data submitted by ET

¡P                                             Check Contractor's working methods

¡P                                             Discuss with ET Leader and Contractor on proposed remedial measures

¡P                                             Review proposals on remedial measures

¡P                                             Audit the implementation of the remedial measures

¡P       Audit the effectiveness of the implemented remedial measures

 

¡P     Submit proposals for remedial measures to IEC

¡P     Implement the agreed proposals

¡P     Amend proposal if appropriate

 

 

Limit Level being exceeded by two consecutive sampling days

¡P     Repeat in situ measurement to confirm findings

¡P     Identify source(s) of impact and cause(s) of exceedance

¡P     Prepare the Notification of Exceedance within 24 hours

¡P     Inform Contractor, IEC, Project Proponent and EPD (EIAO Authority) whether the cause of exceedance is due to the Project

¡P     Discuss with Contractor and IEC for remedial measures required

¡P     Ensure remedial measures are properly implemented

¡P     Increase the monitoring frequency to daily if exceedance is due to the Project until no exceedance of Limit Level

 

¡P                                             Verify the Notification of Exceedance

¡P                                             Check monitoring data submitted by ET

¡P                                             Check Contractor's working methods

¡P                                             Discuss with ET and Contractor on proposed remedial measures

¡P                                             Review proposals on remedial measures

¡P                                             Audit the implementation of the remedial measures

¡P       Audit the effectiveness of the implemented remedial measures

¡P     Critically review the working methods

¡P     Rectify unacceptable practice

¡P     Check all plant and equipment

¡P     Consider changes of working methods

¡P     Discuss with the ET and IEC and propose mitigation measures to the IEC

¡P     Implement the agreed mitigation measures

 

 

Limit Level being exceeded by more than two consecutive sampling days

¡P     Repeat in situ measurement to confirm findings

¡P     Identify source(s) of impact and cause(s) of exceedance

¡P     Prepare the Notification of Exceedance within 24 hours

¡P     Inform Contractor, IEC, Project Proponent and EPD (EIAO Authority) whether the cause of exceedance is due to the Project

¡P     Check monitoring data, all plant, equipment and Contractor¡¦s working methods

¡P     Discuss with Contractor and IEC for remedial measures required

¡P     Ensure mitigation measures are implemented

¡P     Increase the monitoring frequency to daily if exceedance is due to the Project until no exceedance of Limit Level for two consecutive days

 

¡P                                             Verify the Notification of Exceedance

¡P                                             Check monitoring data submitted by ET

¡P                                             Check Contractor's working methods

¡P                                             Discuss with ET and Contractor on proposed remedial measures

¡P                                             Review proposals on remedial measures

¡P                                             Audit the implementation of the remedial measures

¡P                                             Audit the effectiveness of the implemented remedial measures

 

¡P                    Critically review the working methods

¡P     Rectify unacceptable practice

¡P     Check all plant and equipment

¡P     Consider changes of working methods

¡P     Discuss with the ET and IEC and propose mitigation measures

¡P     Implement the agreed mitigation measures

¡P     As directed by the Project Proponent, slow down or stop all or part of the construction activities

 

 

 


Table 4.5b Event and Action Plan for Water Quality Monitoring During Operation/Restoration and Aftercare Phases

Event

Action

ET

IEC

Contractor

 

Exceedance of Limit Level for surface water monitoring

¡P                      Identify source(s) of impact and investigate the cause(s) of exceedance

¡P                      Prepare Notification of Exceedance within 24 hours

¡P                      Inform Contractor, IEC, Project Proponent and EPD (EIAO Authority) whether the cause of exceedance is due to the Project

¡P                      Discuss with Contractor and IEC for remedial measures required

¡P                      Ensure remedial measures are properly implemented

¡P                      Repeat measurement to confirm finding if exceedance is due to the Project

¡P                      Increase monitoring frequency to weekly if exceedance is due to the Project until no exceedance of Limit Level

 

 

¡P                                             Verify the Notification of Exceedance

¡P                                             Check monitoring data submitted by ET

¡P                                             Check Contractor's working methods

¡P                                             Discuss with ET and Contractor on proposed remedial measures

¡P                                             Review proposals on remedial measures

¡P                                             Audit the implementation of the remedial measures

¡P                                             Audit the effectiveness of the implemented remedial measures

¡P                      Take immediate action to avoid further exceedance

¡P                      Submit proposals for remedial measures to IEC

¡P                      Implement the agreed proposals

¡P                      Amend proposal if appropriate

 

 

Exceedance of Limit Level for groundwater monitoring

¡P                      Identify source(s) of impact and investigate the cause(s) of exceedance

¡P                      Prepare Notification of Exceedance within 24 hours

¡P                      Inform Contractor, IEC, Project Proponent and EPD (EIAO Authority) whether the cause of exceedance is due to the Project

¡P                      Discuss with Contractor and IEC for remedial measures required

¡P                      Ensure remedial measures are properly implemented

¡P                      Repeat measurement to confirm finding if exceedance is due to the Project

¡P                      Increase monitoring frequency to weekly at monitoring well if exceedance is due to the Project until no exceedance of Limit Level

 

 

¡P                                             Verify the Notification of Exceedance

¡P                                             Check monitoring data submitted by ET

¡P                                             Check Contractor's working methods

¡P                                             Discuss with ET and Contractor on proposed remedial measures

¡P                                             Review proposals on remedial measures

¡P                                             Audit the implementation of the remedial measures

¡P                                             Audit the effectiveness of the implemented remedial measures

¡P                      Divert groundwater collected at the collection sumps to the leachate treatment plant

¡P                      Submit proposals for remedial measures to IEC

¡P                      Rectify any unacceptable practice or design

¡P                      Amend working methods as required

¡P                      Implement amended working methods, if necessary

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Exceedance of Limit Level for leachate level

¡P                      Investigate the cause(s) of exceedance

¡P                      Prepare Notification of Exceedance within 24 hours

¡P                      Inform Contractor, IEC, Project Proponent and EPD (EIAO Authority) whether the cause of exceedance is due to the Project

¡P                      Discuss with Contractor and IEC for remedial measures required

¡P                      Ensure remedial measures are properly implemented

 

¡P                                             Verify the Notification of Exceedance

¡P                                             Check with Contractor on the operating activities and performance of the leachate collection system

¡P                                             Discuss with ET and Contractor on proposed remedial measures

¡P                                             Review proposals on remedial measures

¡P                                             Audit the implementation of the remedial measures

¡P                                             Audit the effectiveness of the implemented remedial measures

 

¡P                      Check the performance of the leachate collection system

¡P                      Rectify any unacceptable practice;

¡P                      Amend leachate collection design if required

¡P                      Implement amended leachate collection system, if necessary

 

 

Exceedance of Limit Level of effluent discharge from LTP

¡P                      Investigate the cause(s) of exceedance

¡P                      Prepare Notification of Exceedance within 24 hours

¡P                      Inform Contractor, IEC, Project Proponent and EPD (EIAO Authority) whether the cause of exceedance is due to the Project

¡P                      Discuss with Contractor and IEC for remedial measures required

¡P                      Ensure remedial measures are properly implemented

¡P                      Repeat measurement to confirm finding if exceedance is due to the Project

¡P                      Increase monitoring frequency to weekly until no exceedance of Limit Level

¡P                                             Verify the Notification of Exceedance

¡P                                             Check with Contractor on the operation performance of the LTP

¡P                                             Discuss with ET and Contractor on proposed remedial measures

¡P                                             Review proposals on remedial measures

¡P                                             Audit the implementation of the remedial measures

¡P                                             Audit the effectiveness of the implemented remedial measures

¡P                      Rectify any unacceptable performance

¡P                      Carry out remedial measures or amend design as required

¡P                      Implement amended design, if necessary

 

 


5          Landfill Gas

5.1                                                         Introduction

Potential landfill gas hazards to developments in the vicinity of a landfill site will depend on the effectiveness of the landfill gas management system of the SENTX; the nature of the migration pathways and types of the developments.   The Section describes the landfill gas monitoring requirements for the SENTX. 

5.2                                                         Methodology and Criteria

The landfill gas monitoring programme includes in situ measurement and gas sampling for laboratory testing to ensure the landfill gas control systems are effective in preventing migration of landfill gas off Site.  The monitoring locations should include the perimeter of the waste boundary (monitoring wells), area between the SENTX Site boundary and the waste boundary (surface emission), occupied on-site building, service voids, utilities pit and manholes in the vicinity of the SENTX (build-up of landfill gas).  The gaseous composition at the landfill gas flares should also be monitor to ensure the landfill gas treatment system is operating at optimal efficiency and no adverse environmental impacts are associated with its operation.  Details of the emission monitoring requirement for flare emissions are described in Section 3.6.

5.3                                                         Monitoring Parameters, Locations and Frequency

For the purpose of establishing the baseline condition at the boundary of the SENTX Site and thus the Action Level for the operation/restoration and aftercare phases, it is recommended that gas in the perimeter landfill gas monitoring wells be monitored at monthly intervals for a period of 12 months prior to commencement of waste filling.  These monitoring wells should be monitored for the presence of landfill gas throughout the operation/restoration and aftercare phases.  Bulk gas samples should also be taken from at least 2 of the perimeters landfill gas monitoring wells at quarterly basis for laboratory analysis of its composition. 

A total of 35 landfill gas monitoring wells (23 are new wells and 12 are existing wells for SENT Landfill) is proposed and their locations are shown in Figure 5.3a.  The spacing of the new landfill gas monitoring wells along the western and southern boundaries of the SENTX is approximately 50m and the spacing of the monitoring wells along the eastern boundary is about 100m.  The permanent gas monitoring systems with alarms should be installed and operated in all occupied on-site buildings. 

The parameters, locations and frequency of landfill gas monitoring for various phases of the SENTX are summarized in Table 5.3a. 

Table 5.3a      Parameters, Locations and Frequency of Landfill Gas Monitoring

Phase

Monitoring Location

Monitoring Frequency

Monitoring Parameters

Baseline Monitoring

All perimeter LFG monitoring wells

Monthly, for a period of 12 months prior to waste filling

¡P      Methane

¡P      Carbon dioxide

¡P      Oxygen

¡P      Atmospheric pressure

 

Operation / Restoration/Aftercare

Perimeter LFG monitoring wells

 

Monthly

¡P      Methane

¡P      Carbon dioxide

¡P      Oxygen

¡P      Atmospheric pressure

 

 

Permanent gas monitoring system in all occupied on-site buildings

 

Continuous

¡P      Methane (or flammable gas) by permanent gas monitoring system

 

Areas between the SENTX Site boundary and the waste boundary and location of vegetation stress

 

Quarterly

¡P      Flammable gas emitted from the ground surface (a)

 

Bulk gas sampling at least 2 of the perimeters LFG monitoring wells (for laboratory analysis by gas chromatography)

Quarterly

¡P      Methane

¡P      Carbon dioxide

¡P      Oxygen

¡P      Nitrogen

¡P      Other flammable gas

¡P      Carbon monoxide

 

 

Service voids, utilities and manholes along the Site boundary and within the SENTX Site

 

Monthly

¡P      Carbon dioxide

¡P      Oxygen

¡P      Methane

 

Note:

(a) To be calibrated with methane gas

5.4                                                         Monitoring Equipment

5.4.1  Portable Equipment

Surface Emissions of Flammable Gases

The instrument should be able to measures flammable gas concentration (calibrated with methane gas) in the range of 1 to 10,000 ppm.  The instrument should be intrinsically safe if used in confined area.  The surface gas emission survey should be conducted at a slow pace with the inlet tube of the meter probe a few centimeters above ground surface. 

Carbon dioxide, Methane, Oxygen and Gas Pressure

The instruments should be of a robust and weatherproof design and able to monitor the above parameters in landfill gas monitoring wells, probes, piezometer and gas well heads.

Dipmeter

A portable dipmeter should be used to monitor the water level in the gas monitoring wells, probes or piezometers.

Bulk Landfill Gas

Sampling containers, such as Tedlar bags, stainless steel gas cylinders or glass gas bombs should be used for landfill gas sampling with suitable gas sampling pump.  The sampling tube through which the gas is withdrawn from the gas monitoring wells, probes, piezometers or well heads into the sampling containers should be made of inert materials.  A drying tube should be used to minimize the moisture content of the gas sample.  The gas samples should be taken prior to field measurement of that landfill gas monitoring well, probes, piezometers or well heads.

5.4.2  Permanent Monitoring System

Permanent Landfill Gas Monitoring System Inside Buildings

The detection system should consist of the following components:

¡P           detector heads located within all occupied site buildings and located close to below ground utilities, other confined spaces, or other areas where gas ingress or gas accumulation may occur.  The detectors should have a pre-set alarm levels for methane at 20% lower explosive limit (LEL, equivalent to 1% methane gas (v/v) and are fitted with audible alarms. 

¡P           A central control penal which should alert site personnel when the gas concentration at any detector reaches the alarm level.

5.5                                                         Laboratory Measurement / Analysis

Bulk gas sample should be transferred to the analytical laboratory within 24 hours and analysed within 48 hours after collection. 

Bulk gas samples should be analysis by gas chromatography for the parameters listed in Table 5.3a to detection limit of 0.0025% or lower unless other specified.  The carrier gas to be used during the analyses should be helium, hydrogen or nitrogen with a minimum purity of 99.995%.

The results of field monitoring and laboratory analyses of bulk samples should be checked to see if the gas concentrations measured by both methods are within the same order of magnitude.  If two sets of data are not comparable, the sampling procedures should be checked and if deemed necessary, to repeat the monitoring and recalibrate the portable monitoring instruments.

5.6                                                         Compliance Requirements

5.6.1  Limit Levels for Landfill Gas

The Limit Levels for landfill gas constituents of the SENTX are shown in Table 5.6a. 

Table 5.6a      Limit Levels for Landfill Gas Constituents

Location

Parameter

Limit Level

All perimeter landfill gas monitoring wells

Methane

1% by volume

 

Carbon Dioxide

1.5% by volume above background (a)

Permanent gas monitoring system

Methane (or flammable gas)

1% by volume (20% LEL)

Area between the SENTX Site boundary and the waste boundary (surface emission)

Flammable gas

30 ppm

Service voids, utilities pits and manholes and location of vegetation stress

Methane (or flammable gas)

1% by volume

Note:

(a)     Background concentrations established in baseline monitoring

 

5.6.2  Event/Action Plan

Should the monitoring results of the landfill gas parameters at any designated monitoring point indicate that the action levels in Table 5.6a are exceeded, the actions described in the EAP (see Table 5.6b) should be implemented.    


Table 5.6b      Event/Action Plan for Landfill Gas Monitoring

Event

Action

ET

IEC

Contractor

 

Limit Level being exceeded for field monitoring at the perimeter monitoring wells

¡P     Investigate the cause(s) of exceedance

¡P     Prepare the Notification of Exceedance within 24 hours

¡P     Check monitoring data, all plant, equipment and the Contractor¡¦s working methods

¡P     Inform Contractor, IEC, Project Proponent and EPD (EIAO Authority) whether the cause of exceedance is due to the Project

¡P     Discuss with Contractor and IEC for remedial measures required

¡P     Ensure remedial measures are properly implemented

¡P     Increase the monitoring frequency to daily if exceedance is due to the Project for monitoring wells in the areas where there is development within 250m of the SENTX Site Boundary and to weekly for other monitoring wells, until no exceedance of limit level

 

¡P                                             Verify the Notification of Exceedance

¡P                                             Discuss with ET  and Contractor on proposed remedial measures

¡P                                             Review proposals on remedial measures

¡P                                             Audit the implementation of the remedial measures

¡P                                             Audit the effectiveness of the implemented remedial measures

¡P      Repeat field measurement to confirm findings

¡P      Check the performance of landfill gas management system

¡P      Rectify unacceptable practice

¡P      Discuss with the ET and IEC and submit proposals for remedial measures to IEC

¡P      Implement the agreed proposals

¡P      Amend proposal if appropriate

 

 

Limit Level being exceeded for the bulk gas sampling at the perimeter monitoring wells

¡P    Check and compare the results of field monitoring and laboratory analyse of bulk samples

¡P    If the results of field monitoring also show exceedance, the action(s) for limit level being exceeded for field monitoring would have been triggered

¡P    If the results of field monitoring does not show exceedance, the sampling procedures should be checked and if deems necessary, to repeat the monitoring and recalibrate the portable monitoring instruments

¡P    Notify the above findings to Contractor and IEC

 

 

¡P       Verify the findings by ET

¡P      Nil

 

Limit Level being exceeded at the permanent gas monitoring system

¡P                     Investigate the cause(s) of exceedance

¡P                     Prepare the Notification of Exceedance within 24 hours

¡P                     Check the methane gas level at the perimeter monitoring wells, manholes or utilities duct

¡P                     Check monitoring data, all plant, equipment and the Contractor¡¦s working methods

¡P                     Inform Contractor, IEC, Project Proponent and EPD (EIAO Authority) whether the cause of exceedance is due to the Project

¡P                     Discuss with Contractor and IEC for remedial measures required

¡P                     Ensure remedial measures are properly implemented

 

¡P                                             Verify the Notification of Exceedance

¡P                                             Discuss with ET and Contractor on proposed remedial measures

¡P                                             Review proposals on remedial measures

¡P                                             Audit the implementation of the remedial measures

¡P                                             Audit the effectiveness of the implemented remedial measures

¡P                     Evacuate all staff in the concerned building

¡P                     Open the doors and window of all rooms on the ground floor

¡P                     Do not allow staff to go back to the room if methane level is higher than 1% gas

¡P                     Check the performance of the landfill gas management system

¡P                     Rectify unacceptable practice

¡P                     Consider changes of working methods

¡P                     Discuss with the ET and IEC and submit proposals for remedial measures to IEC

¡P                     Implement the agreed proposals

¡P                     Amend proposal if appropriate

 

 

Limit Level being exceeded during surface emission monitoring

¡P                      Repeat the measurement to confirm findings

¡P                      Investigate the cause(s) of exceedance

¡P                      Prepare the Notification of Exceedance within 24 hours

¡P                      Check monitoring data, all plant, equipment and the Contractor¡¦s working methods

¡P                      Inform Contractor, IEC, Project Proponent and EPD (EIAO Authority) whether the cause of exceedance is due to the Project

¡P                      Discuss with Contractor and IEC for remedial measures required

¡P                      Ensure remedial measures are properly implemented

¡P                      Increase the monitoring frequency to monthly if exceedance is due to the Project until no exceedance of limit level

 

 

 

 

 

¡P                                             Verify the Notification of Exceedance

¡P                                             Discuss with ET and Contractor on proposed remedial measures

¡P                                             Review proposals on remedial measures

¡P                                             Audit the implementation of the remedial measures

¡P                                             Audit the effectiveness of the implemented remedial measures

¡P                     Check landfill gas management system

¡P                     Rectify unacceptable practice

¡P                     Consider changes of working methods

¡P                     Discuss with the ET and IEC and submit proposals for remedial measures to IEC

¡P                     Implement the agreed proposals

¡P                      Amend proposal if appropriate

 

 

Limit Level being exceeded at the service voids, utilities pits, manholes and location of vegetation stress

¡P                      Repeat the measurement to confirm findings

¡P                      Investigate the cause(s) of exceedance

¡P                      Prepare the Notification of Exceedance within 24 hours

¡P                      Check monitoring data, all plant, equipment and the Contractor¡¦s working methods

¡P                      Inform Contractor, IEC, Project Proponent and EPD (EIAO Authority) whether the cause of exceedance is due to the Project

¡P                      Discuss with Contractor and IEC for remedial measures required

¡P                      Ensure remedial measures are properly implemented

¡P                      Increase the monitoring frequency to weekly if exceedance is due to the Project until no exceedance of limit level

 

¡P                                             Verify the Notification of Exceedance

¡P                                             Discuss with ET and Contractor on proposed remedial measures

¡P                                             Review proposals on remedial measures

¡P                                             Audit the implementation of the remedial measures

¡P                                             the effectiveness of the implemented remedial measures

¡P                      Check landfill gas management system

¡P                      Rectify unacceptable practice

¡P                      Discuss with the ET and IEC and submit proposals for remedial measures to IEC

¡P                      Implement the agreed proposals

¡P                      Amend proposal if appropriate

 

 

 

 

 


6          Noise

6.1                                                         Introduction

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

6.2                                                         Methodology and Criteria

Although no adverse impacts are predicted at the Noise Sensitive Receivers (NSRs), it is still recommended to undertake noise monitoring near the SENTX Site boundary during construction, operation/restoration phase of the SENTX to ensure the noise criteria at the NSRs can be met.  Noise monitoring is not considered necessary during the aftercare phase.  However, if there are major construction works to be carried out on site during the aftercare period, noise should be monitored at weekly basis during this period.

The noise level should be measured in terms of the A-weighted equivalent continuous sound pressure level (Leq) for a period of 30 minutes between 07:00 and 19:00 hours on normal weekdays.

6.2.1  Construction Phase

Whilst the Noise Control Ordinance (NCO) does not provide the statutory control of construction activities occurring on weekdays during normal working hours (ie Monday to Saturday inclusive 07:00-19:00 hours), a day-time standard of 75dB(A) Leq, 30 minute stipulated in Annex 5 of the Technical Memorandum on Environmental Impact Assessment Process (EIAO-TM) should be used as the construction noise limit.

It is not anticipated that construction works will be carried out during the restricted hours (ie 19:00 to 07:00 hours).  However, when construction works within the restricted hours is needed, a Construction Noise Permit (CNP) is required under the NCO and the Contractor should comply with the standards promulgated in Technical Memorandum on Noise from Construction Work other than Percussive Piling (GW-TM).

6.2.2  Operational Phase

The standard stipulated in the Technical Memorandum on Noise From Places Other than Domestic Premises, Public Places or Construction Sites (IND-TM) should be complied with.

6.3                                                         Monitoring Equipment

The Contractor should be responsible for providing and maintaining a sufficient number of sound level meters for the baseline, impact and ad hoc monitoring.  The ET Leader should ensure the equipment is kept in a good state of repair in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations and maintained in proper working order with sufficient spare equipment available in the event of breakdown to maintain the planned monitoring programme.

Sound level meters and calibrators should comply with the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) Publication 651 : 1979 (Type 1) and 804 : 1985 (Type 1) specification as stated in the GW-TM and IND-TM.  The sound level meters should be supplied and used with the manufacturers recommended wind shield.

The calibration of the sound level meters should be carried out in accordance with the manufacturer's requirements.  Sound level meters should be calibrated using a portable calibrator before and after each measurement.  The calibration levels should be noted with the measurement results and where the difference between the calibration levels is greater than 1 dB(A) the measurement will be repeated.  The sound level meters, including the calibrators, should be verified by the manufacturers once every two years.  Calibrated hand-held anemometers capable of measuring the wind speed in m s-1 should also be supplied for the measurement of wind speeds during noise monitoring periods.  The anemometers should be used and calibrated in accordance with the manufactures recommendations.

Noise measurements should not be made in the presence of fog, rain, wind with a steady speed exceeding 5 m s-1 or wind with gusts exceeding 10 m s-1.  The wind speed should be checked with the hand-held anemometers.

6.4                                                         Monitoring Locations

As the NSRs are located at more than 1.6km away from the SENTX, it is not considered appropriate to carry out monitoring at the NSRs as the monitoring results is likely to be dominated by other noise sources near the NSRs.  Two locations along and at around 100m from the SENTX Site boundary have therefore been selected for conducting the monitoring, as shown in Figure 3.2a.  Noise levels at NM1 should be monitored during construction and the first 3 years of operation, while NM2 should be monitored during the next 3 years of operation until the completion of the Restoration phase.

6.5                                                         Baseline Monitoring

The Contractor should carry out baseline noise monitoring prior to the commencement of the construction works.  The baseline monitoring should be measured for a continuous period of at least 14 consecutive days at a minimum logging interval of 30 minutes for day-time between 07:00 and 19:00 hours of normal weekdays.  The Leq, L10 and L90 should be recorded at the specified interval.  A schedule on the baseline monitoring should be submitted to the IEC and EPD (EIAO Authority) for information before the monitoring starts.

There should not be any construction activities in the vicinity of the monitoring locations during the baseline monitoring.  In case there is insufficient baseline monitoring data or questionable results are obtained, the ET Leader should liaise with the IEC and EPD (EIAO Authority) to agree on an appropriate set of data to be used as a baseline reference and submit to EPD (EIAO Authority) for information.

6.6                                                         Impact Monitoring

Noise monitoring should be undertaken during the construction and operation/restoration phases to ensure compliance with the acceptable noise level.  Noise monitoring should be undertaken weekly at the monitoring locations to obtain one set of 30-minute measurement between 07:00 and 19:00 hours on normal weekdays. 

Weekly site audits should be conducted throughout the construction and operation/restoration phases to ensure that the proposed mitigation measures are implemented properly and that the plant inventory used on site is consistent with the assumptions used in the approved EIA Report taking account of the latest design . 

6.7                                                         Event and Action Plan

The action and limit levels for construction and operation noise are defined in Table 6.7a.  If non-compliance occurred, actions as stated in Table 6.7b should be undertaken.

Table 6.7a     Action and Limit Levels for Noise

Time Period

Action Level (a)

Limit Level (b)

Construction Noise:

 

 

07:00 ¡V 19:00 hrs on normal weekdays

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

or

75 dB(A) recorded at the monitoring station

75 dB(A) at NSRs

Operational Noise:

 

 

07:00 ¡V 19:00 hrs on all days

When one documented complaint is received from any one of the NSRs

or

75 dB(A) recorded at the monitoring station

65 dB(A) at NSRs (c)

19:00 ¡V 23:00 hrs on all days

65 dB(A) at NSRs (c)

23:00 ¡V 07:00 hrs on all days

55 dB(A) at NSRs (c)

Notes:

(a)                           75dB(A) along and at about 100m from the SENTX site boundary was set as the Action Level.

(b)                           Limits specified in the GW-TM and IND-TM for construction and operational noise, respectively.

(c)                            Limit Level only apply to operational noise without road traffic and construction activities noise.


Table 6.7b     Event and Action Plan for Construction and Operational Noise Monitoring

Event

Action

 

ET

IEC

Contractor

 

Action Level

¡P                      Identify the source(s) and investigate the cause(s) of exceedance and complaint

¡P                      Prepare Notification of Exceedance within 24 hours

¡P                      Inform Contractor, IEC and Project Proponent whether the cause of exceedance is due to the Project

¡P                      Discuss with Contractor and IEC for remedial measures required

¡P                      Ensure remedial measures are properly implemented

¡P                      Have additional monitoring if exceedance is due to the Project. If exceedance stops, cease additional monitoring

 

¡P                                             Verify the Notification of Exceedance

¡P                                             Check monitoring data submitted by ET

¡P                                             Discuss with ET and Contractor on proposed remedial measures

¡P                                             Review proposals on remedial measures

¡P                                             Audit the implementation of the remedial measures

¡P                      Audit the effectiveness of the implemented remedial measures

¡P                      Submit proposals for remedial measures to IEC

¡P                      Implement the agreed proposals

 

 

Limit Level

¡P                      Identify the source(s) and investigate the cause(s) of exceedance and complaint

¡P                      Prepare Notification of Exceedance within 24 hours

¡P                      Inform Contractor, IEC, Project Proponent and EPD (EIAO Authority) whether the cause of exceedance is due to the Project

¡P                      Analyse the operation of SENTX and investigate the causes of exceedance

¡P                      Provide interim report to Contractor, IEC, Project Proponent and EPD (EIAO Authority) the causes of the exceedances

¡P                      Discuss with Contractor and IEC for remedial measures required

¡P                      Ensure remedial measures are properly implemented

¡P                      Report the remedial measures implemented and the additional monitoring results to Contactor, IEC, Project Proponent and EPD (EIAO Authority)

¡P                      Have additional monitoring if exceedance is due to the Project. If exceedance stops, cease additional monitoring

¡P                                             Verify the Notification of Exceedance

¡P                                             Check monitoring data submitted by ET

¡P                                             Discuss with ET and Contractor on proposed remedial measures

¡P                                             Review proposals on remedial measures

¡P                                             Audit the implementation of the remedial measures

¡P                      Audit the effectiveness of the implemented remedial measures

¡P                      Take immediate measures to avoid further exceedance

¡P                      Submit proposals for remedial measures to IEC within 3 working days of notification

¡P                      Implement the agreed proposals

¡P                      Resubmit proposals if problem still not under control

¡P                      Stop the relevant activity of works as determined by the Project Proponent until the exceedance is abated

 

 

 

7          Waste Management

7.1                                                         General

Construction and demolition waste, chemical wastes and general refuse will be generated during the construction, operation/restoration and aftercare phases of the SENTX.  With the implementation of the good site practices, the handling, collection, transportation and disposal of the wastes arising from the SENTX will not cause adverse environmental impacts with respect to the criteria specified in the EIAO-TM.

The good site practices are further described below and the Contractor should ensure that all the necessary waste disposal permits or licences are obtained prior to the commencement of the construction works.

7.2                                                         Mitigation Measures

7.2.1  Construction Waste

Wherever practicable, the excavated materials and inert construction waste generated from site clearance and construction and demolition of site infrastructure should be segregated from other wastes to avoid contamination, and reused on-site for the site formation works and during operation to reduce the amount of construction waste to be disposed off-site.    

The contractor should open a billing account with the EPD in accordance with the Waste Disposal (Charges for Disposal of Construction Waste) Regulation.  Every load of construction waste or public fill to be transferred to the Government disposal facilities such as public fill reception facilities, sorting facilities and landfills will require a valid ¡§chit¡¨. 

A trip-ticket system should also be established in accordance with Development Bureau Technical Circular (Works) No. 6/2010 to monitor the disposal of construction waste at the SENT Landfill, and public fill to the public fill reception or sorting facilities.  The trip-ticket system should be included as one of the contractual requirements and implemented by the Contractor.

7.2.2  Chemical Waste

The Contractor should be registered as a chemical waste producer with the EPD.  Chemical waste should be handled in accordance with the Code of Practice on the Packaging, Labelling and Storage of Chemical Wastes.

7.2.3  Sludge

In case off-site disposal is required, the sludge generated from the LTP during operation/ restoration phase should be transported to another waste disposal facility, e.g. other landfills or the Sludge Treatment Facility using enclosed containers.  The LTP will continue to operate during the aftercare phase and the sludge generated should be dewatered (> 30% dry solids) and transported to another waste disposal facility, e.g. other landfills or the Sludge Treatment Facility for off-site disposal, if required. 

7.2.4  Sewage

An adequate number of portable toilets should be provided at the Site during construction phase.  The sludge collected from the portable toilets should be disposed of at the appropriate STW.  Sewage generated during the operation/restoration and aftercare phases should be diverted to the LTP for treatment or to public sewer, if available.

7.2.5  General Refuse

General refuse should be stored in enclosed bins separately from construction and chemical wastes.  The general refuse should be delivered to other approved waste transfer /disposal facilities, e.g. refuse transfer station or landfill on a daily basis during the construction, operation/restoration and aftercare phases.

7.2.6  Staff Training

At the commencement of the construction works, training should be provided to workers on the concepts of site cleanliness and on appropriate waste management procedures, including waste reduction, reuse and recycling.  Refreshment courses should be held one a regular basis (eg once a year).

7.3                                                         Site Audit/Inspection

Weekly site audits of the waste management practices should be carried out during the construction and operation/restoration phases to determine if wastes are being managed in accordance with the good site practices described in this update EM&A Manual.  The audits should examine all aspects of waste management including waste generation, storage, recycling, transport and disposal.

 

8          Ecology

8.1                                                         Introduction

This Section describes the monitoring and audit requirements with respect to ecology during the construction, operation, restoration and aftercare phases of the SENTX.

The mitigation measures recommended to further reduce the potential impacts and disturbance to the surrounding habitats are summarised in Annex A.

8.2                                                         Mitigation Measures

8.2.1  Measures for Controlling Construction Site Runoff

The following measures for controlling site runoff will be implemented to avoid potential water quality impacts.

¡P           Exposed soil areas should be minimised to reduce the contamination of runoff and erosion;

¡P           To prevent stormwater runoff from washing across exposed soil surfaces, perimeter channels should be constructed in advance of site formation works and earthworks and intercepting channels should be provided for example along the edge of excavation;

¡P           Silt removal facilities, channels and manholes should be maintained and the deposited silt and grit should be removed regularly to ensure they are functioning properly at all times;

¡P           Temporary covers such as tarpaulin should also be provided to minimise the generation of high suspended solids runoff;

¡P           The surface runoff contained any oil and grease will pass through the oil interceptors; and

¡P           Control measures, including implementation of excavation schedules, lining and covering of excavated stockpiles will be implemented to minimise contaminated stormwater run-off from the SENTX Site. 

8.2.2  Good Construction Site Practice

The following good construction site practice will be implemented to avoid ecological impacts.

¡P           Erect fences along the boundary of the SENTX Site before the commencement of construction works to prevent vehicle movements, and encroachment of personnel, onto adjacent areas;

¡P           Regularly check the work site boundaries to ensure that they are not breached and that damage does not occur to surrounding areas;

8.2.3  Measures for Controlling Migration of Leachate

Leachate should be contained within the SENTX Site by the proposed leachate containment system and collected by the leachate collection system to prevent potential migration of leachate to habitats in the vicinity.  The implementation details of monitoring the management of leachate are described in Section 4 - Water Quality Monitoring.

8.2.4  Measures for Controlling Migration of Landfill Gas

Stress to vegetation due to off-site migration of landfill gas should be prevented by proper management (e.g. gas abstraction and flaring, and landfill gas monitoring) of the landfill gas generated from the SENTX.  Ignition fires should be prohibited within the boundary of the SENTX Site.  Further details of monitoring requirement for surface emission and off-site migration of landfill gas are described in Section 5 - Landfill Gas Monitoring.

8.3                                                         Compensation

The following compensation planting is recommended as the mitigation measures for the impacted habitats due to the SENTX. 

¡P           Provision of 6 ha of mixed woodland planting to compensate the loss of shrubland; and

¡P           Provision of a mosaic of grassland and shrubland in the remaining areas of the SENTX Site.

The mixture of grassland, shrubland and woodland habitats are recommended to diversify the habitats for supporting various wildlife in particular butterflies, birds and herpetofauna and blend into the adjacent environment. 

It is recommended that indigenous plant species of shallow root system, softwood in nature and adaptive to sea shore habitat (such as Gordonia axillaris, Phyllanthus emblica, Celtis sinensis and Macaranga tanarius) should be used for the restoration of the SENTX.  Taking consideration of the relative poor substrate and the difficulties of establishment of some native trees in Hong Kong, it is recommended to include approximately 20% of non-native tree species in the compensatory woodland.  The non-native tree species can serve as a nurse species to facilitate the establishment of the native tree species and it can be replaced by established native tree species progressively.  Plant species can also make reference to food plants of butterfly species (in particularly butterfly species of conservation interests recorded within the CWBCP) such as Ischaemum aristatum, Microstegium ciliatum, Miscanthus floridulus, Miscanthus floridulus, Ficus superba, Phoenix hanceana and Zanthoxylum nitidum. 

It is also recommended that a trial nursery for native plant species be set up in advance during the construction phase in order to fine tune the planting matrix and management intensity of the recommended indigenous tree species.  It should be noted that native shrubs and tree species had been used for restoration of the existing SENT Landfill, native plant species that could not successfully be established on the existing SENT Landfill should be reviewed before the preparation of the compensatory planting list.  Special care and intensive management of native plant should be implemented in order to ensure proper establishment of the native plants. 

8.4                                                         Environmental Monitoring and Audit

The implementation of the ecological mitigations and compensation planting should be checked by the ET as part of the EM&A procedures during the construction, operation/restoration and aftercare phases.

9          Landscape and Visual

9.1                                                         Introduction

It is recommended that EM&A for landscape and visual resources is undertaken during the design, construction, operation and restoration/ aftercare phases of the SENTX.  The design, implementation and maintenance of landscape mitigation measures is a key aspect of this should be checked to ensure that they are fully realised and that potential conflicts between the proposed landscape measures and any other the SENTX works and operational requirements are resolved at the earliest possible time and without compromise to the intention of the mitigation measures.  In addition, implementation of the mitigation measures should be monitored through the regular site inspection/audit programme.

9.2                                                         Mitigation Measures

A series of mitigation measures recommended to ameliorate the landscape and visual impacts during the construction, operation/restoration and aftercare phases of the SENTX are summarised in the Annex A.

9.3                                                         Design Phase Audit

The landscape measures proposed in the EIA Report with updates from the current EP and the latest design to mitigate the landscape and visual impacts of the SENTX should be embodied into the detailed landscape design drawings and contract documents including the protection of existing trees, the transplanting of existing trees and landscape restoration proposals, notably the phasing of restoration, final grading profiles and the planting of new trees and shrubs.  Designs should be checked to ensure that the measures are fully incorporated and that potential conflicts with civil engineering, geotechnical, structural, drainage, underground utility and operational requirements are resolved prior to construction and operation/ restoration of the SENTX.

The design phase EM&A requirements for landscape and visual resources comprise the audit of the detailed landscaping designs and specifications to be prepared during the detailed design together with ensuring that the design is sensitive to landscape and visual impacts and that landscape resources are retained as far as practicable.  Monitoring of design works against the recommendations of the landscape and visual impact assessments of the EIA Report with updates from the current EP and the latest design should be undertaken when the designs are produced to ensure that they fulfill the intentions of mitigation measures. 

The design phase audit should be carried out by a Registered Landscape Architect and checks should be made at two points in time: namely:

¡P           First draft of Detailed Design Drawings; and

¡P           Draft Construction Drawings.

The design phase audit should be carried out in accordance with the list of issues that are addressed in design drawings and mitigation measures as described in this updated EM&A Manual. 

9.3.1  Non-Conformity in the Design Phase

The landscape auditor should review the designs when they are prepared and liaise with the landscape architect and design engineer to ensure all measures have been incorporated in the design in a format that can be specified to the Contractor for implementation.  In the event of a non-conformity, the EAP as detailed in Table 9.3a should be followed.

 

Table 9.3a      Event and Action Plan for Design Phase

 

Action Level

Landscape Auditor from the ET

Independent Consultant (IC)

Project Landscape Architect (PLA) from the Contractor

Non Conformity

(with Design Standards and Specification)

¡P   Identify Source

¡P   Inform Project Proponent and PLA

¡P   Discuss remedial actions with Project Proponent and PLA

¡P   Verify remedial actions when complete

¡P   Notify PLA

¡P   Discuss remedial actions with PLA

¡P   Ensure remedial designs are fully incorporated

¡P   Amend designs

¡P   Discuss remedial actions with Project Proponent

9.3.2  Baseline Monitoring

Baseline monitoring for the landscape and visual resources will comprise checking and updating of:

¡P           The landscape resources identified in the EIA Report taking account of the latest design and elements of particular concern are to be re-checked and any changes identified;

¡P           Any Tree Survey Report prepared;

¡P           Habitat maps in the EIA Report taking account of the latest design; and

¡P           Landscape and visual impact assessments included in the EIA Report taking account of the latest design, to include updated photos of each landscape character area (LCA) and landscape resources (LR) which have changed.

9.4                                                         Construction Phase Audit

A specialist Landscape Sub-Contractor (on the Government¡¦s Approved List) should be employed by the Contractor for the implementation of landscape works and subsequent maintenance operations during the construction phase.  All landscape works carried out in this phase should have a two-year establishment period. 

All measures should be audited by a Registered Landscape Architect, as a member of the ET, on a regular basis to ensure compliance with the intended aims of the measures.  Site inspections should be undertaken monthly throughout the construction period and once every two months during the establishment period for these landscape works.  The broad scope of audit is detailed below. 

¡P                The extent of the agreed works area should be regularly checked during the construction phase.  Any trespass by the Contractor outside the limit of the works, including any damage to existing slopes, trees and woodland should be noted;

¡P                The progress of the engineering works should be regularly reviewed on site to identify the earliest practical opportunities for the landscape works to be undertaken;

¡P                The methods of protecting existing vegetation proposed by the Contractor are acceptable and enforced;

¡P                Preparation, lifting transport and re-planting operations for any transplanted trees;

¡P                All landscaping works are carried out in accordance with the EIA Report taking account of the latest design and with specifications;

¡P                The planting of new trees, shrubs, groundcover, climbers, ferns, grasses and other plants, together with the replanting of any transplanted trees are carried out properly and within the right season; and

¡P                All necessary horticultural operations and replacement planting are undertaken throughout the restoration / establishment period to ensure the healthy establishment and growth of both transplanted trees and all newly establishment plants.

9.5                                                         Operation/Restoration Phase Audit

All measures undertaken by both the Contractor during the operational/ restoration phase should be audited by a Registered Landscape Architect, as a member of the ET, on a regular basis to ensure compliance with the intended aims of the measures.  Site inspections should be undertaken once a month throughout the operation/restoration period.  The broad scope of audit is detailed below.  Operational/restoration phase audits should be carried out throughout the operational/restoration period and thus only the items below concerning this period are relevant to the operational/restoration phase.

¡P                The extent of the agreed works area should be regularly checked during the operation/restoration phases.  Any trespass by the Contractor outside the limit of the works, including any damage to existing trees and woodland should be noted.

¡P                The progress of the engineering works should be regularly reviewed on site to identify the earliest practical opportunities for the landscape works to be undertaken.

¡P                The methods of protecting existing vegetation proposed by the Contractor are acceptable and enforced.

9.6                                                         Aftercare Phase Audit

A specialist Landscape Sub-Contractor (on the Government¡¦s approved list) should be employed by the Contractor for the implementation of landscape works and subsequent maintenance operations during the aftercare phase.  It is proposed that landscape restoration take place in a minimum of six phases.  Thus, restoration and establishment works will be undertaken concurrently for different phases of the landscape restoration.  The intention is to provide 30 years of establishment period for any planting works.

All measures undertaken by both the Contractor and the specialist Landscape Sub-Contractor during the operational phase and for 30 years after completion of operation should be audited by a Registered Landscape Architect, as a member of the ET, on a regular basis to ensure compliance with the intended aims of the measures.  Site inspections should be undertaken once every six months during the aftercare phase.  Items to be checked during the aftercare phase should include:

¡P                All landscaping works are carried out in accordance with the EIA Report taking account of the latest design and with specifications.

¡P                The planting of new trees, shrubs, groundcover, climbers, ferns, grasses and other plants, together with the replanting of any transplanted trees are carried out properly and within the right season.

¡P                All necessary horticultural operations and replacement planting are undertaken throughout the restoration/establishment period to ensure the healthy establishment and growth of both transplanted trees and all newly establishment plants.

9.6.1  Non-Conformity in the Operational/Restoration and Aftercare Phases

In the event of non-compliance the responsibilities of the relevant parties are described in Table 9.6a.


Table 9.6a      Event and Action Plan for Operational/Restoration and Aftercare Phases

Action level

 

ET

IEC

Contractor

Non-conformity on one occasion

¡P  Identify source and cause of non-conformity

¡P  Inform the IEC and the Contractor

¡P  Discuss remedial measures with the IEC and the Contractor

¡P  Ensure remedial measures are properly implemented

¡P  Monitor remedial measures until rectification has been completed

¡P     Check monitoring report

¡P     Check the Contractor¡¦s working method

¡P     Discuss with ET and Contractor on proposed remedial measures

¡P     Review proposals on remedial measures

¡P     Audit the implementation of the remedial measures

¡P     Audit the effectiveness of the implemented remedial measures

 

¡P  Propose remedial measures

¡P  Amend working methods

¡P  Rectify damage and undertake any necessary replacement

 

Repeated Non-conformity

¡P  Identify source and cause of non-conformity

¡P  Inform the IEC and the Contractor

¡P  Discuss remedial measures with the IEC and the Contractor

¡P  Ensure remedial measures are properly implemented

¡P  Monitor remedial measures until rectification has been completed

¡P  Increase monitoring frequency. If exceedance stops, cease additional monitoring

 

¡P     Check monitoring report

¡P     Check the Contractor¡¦s working method

¡P     Discuss with ET and Contractor on proposed remedial measures

¡P     Review proposals on remedial measures

¡P     Audit the implementation of the remedial measures

¡P     Audit the effectiveness of the implemented remedial measures

 

¡P  Propose remedial measures

¡P  Amend working methods

¡P  Rectify damage and undertake any necessary replacement

 

 


10        Site environmental Audit

10.1                                                      Site Inspection

Site inspections provide a direct means to track and ensure the enforcement of specified environmental protection and pollution control measures.  The inspections should be undertaken on a weekly basis by the ET, Contractor and the IEC during the construction and operation/restoration phases and quarterly during the aftercare phase to ensure that appropriate environmental protection and pollution control mitigation measures are properly implemented.  Additionally, the ET will be responsible for defining the scope of the inspections, detailing any deficiencies that are identified, and reporting any necessary action or mitigation measures that were implemented as a result of the inspection; the results of the inspections should be made available to the Contractor. 

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

¡P           the approved EIA Report, updates from the current EP and the latest design (GVL Design) and EM&A recommendations on environmental protection and pollution control mitigation measures;

¡P           ongoing results of the EM&A programme;

¡P           works progress and programme;

¡P           individual works method statements which will include proposals on associated pollution control measures; and

¡P           relevant environmental protection and pollution control laws.

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

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

10.2                                                      Environmental Management Plan

The Contractor is required to define mechanisms for achieving environmental performance targets for the construction and operation of the SENTX.  A systematic Environmental Management Plan (EMP) should be developed and implemented by the Contractor in accordance with the ETWB TC(W) No. 19/2005 Environmental Management on Construction Sites to ensure effective implementation of the applicable mitigation measures, monitoring and remedial requirements presented in the approved EIA Report with updates from the current EP and the latest design, this updated EM&A Manual and implementation schedule (Annex A).  A primary reason for adopting the EMP approach is to make sure that the Contractor are fully aware of their environmental responsibilities and to ensure commitment to achieving specified standards. 

The EMP approach is grounded on the principle that the Contractor should define the means by which the environmental requirements of the EIA process, and the contractual documentation should be met.  The IEC should audit the implementation status of the EMP and advise the necessary remedial action as required.  Such remedial actions should be enforced through contractual requirements.  The EMP should be certified by the ET Leader and verified by the IEC.  The EMP should be subject to continuous review to ensure that it contains sufficient provision to provide environmental protection.

10.3                                                      Compliance with Legal and Contractual Requirements

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

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

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

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

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

10.4                                                      Environmental Complaints

The complaints handling procedure should be as follows:

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

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

¡P         investigate the complaint jointly with the Contractor and the IEC and discuss with the Contractor and IEC to determine its validity and to assess whether the source of the issue is due to construction or landfill activities;

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

¡P         if mitigation measures are required, the ET should advise the Contractor accordingly;

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

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

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

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

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

During the complaint investigation work, the ET and Contractor should cooperate with the IEC in providing the necessary information and assistance for completion of the investigation.  If mitigation measures are identified in the investigation, the Contractor should promptly carry out the mitigation measures.  The proposed mitigation measures will be justified by ET Leader, agreed with IEC and approved by EPD (EIAO Authority) and the ET and IEC should check that the measures have been carried out by the Contractor.

10.5                                                      Log-Book

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

11        Reporting

11.1                                                      General

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

11.2                                                      Baseline Monitoring Report

The ET shall prepare and submit a Baseline Monitoring Report before the commencement of construction and before the commencement of operation.  The Baseline Monitoring Report shall be certified by the ET Leader and verified by the IEC and submitted within 10 days of completion of the baseline monitoring and laboratory testing.  The Baseline Monitoring Report will be submitted to the Contractor, IEC, Project Proponent and the EPD (EIAO Authority).  The Baseline Monitoring Report will include at least the following:

(a)    up to half a page executive summary;

(b)    brief project background information;

(c)     drawings showing locations of the baseline monitoring stations;

(d)    an updated construction programme;

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

¡±   monitoring methodology;

¡±   name of laboratory and types of equipment used and calibration details;

¡±   parameters monitored;

¡±   monitoring locations;

¡±   monitoring date, time, frequency and duration; and

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

(f)      details on influencing factors, including:

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

¡±   weather conditions during the period; and

¡±   other factors which might affect results;

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

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

(i)      comments and conclusions.

11.3                                                      Monthly EM&A Reports

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

11.3.1            First Monthly EM&A Report

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

(a)     Executive Summary (1-2 pages);

¡P           Exceedances of A/L Levels;

¡P           Complaint Log;

¡P           Notifications of any summons and successful prosecutions;

¡P           Reporting Changes;

¡P           Future key issues.

(b)        Basic Project Information

¡P           Project organisation including key personnel contact names and telephone numbers;

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

¡P           Works undertaken during the month.

(c)        Environmental Status

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

¡P           Drawing showing the Project area, any environmental sensitive receivers.

(d)        Summary of EM&A requirements including:

¡P           Environmental mitigation measures, as stated in the current EP and recommended in this updated EM&A Manual;

¡P           Environmental monitoring requirements and contractual requirements;

(e)        Implementation Status

Advice on the implementation status of environmental protection and pollution control/mitigation measures, as stated in the current EP and recommended in this updated EM&A Manual, summarised in the updated implementation schedule.

(f)   Site Audit Report

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

¡P             Monitoring methodology;

¡P             Name of laboratory and equipment used and calibration details;

¡P             Parameters monitored;

¡P             Monitoring locations (and depth); and

¡P             Monitoring date, time, frequency, and duration.

(h)        Report on Complaints, Notifications of Summons and Successful Prosecutions

¡P           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;

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

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

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

(i)         Others

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

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

11.3.2            Subsequent Monthly EM&A Reports

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

(a)   Executive Summary (1-2 pages)

¡P           Exceedances of Action/Limit Levels;

¡P           Complaint Log

¡P           Notifications of any summons and successful prosecutions;

¡P           Reporting Changes

¡P           Future key issues

(b)       Environmental Status

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

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

¡P           Drawing showing the project area, any environmental sensitive receivers.

(c)  Implementation Status

Advice on the implementation status of environmental protection and pollution control/mitigation measures, as stated in the current EP and recommended in this updated EM&A Manual, summarised in the updated implementation schedule.

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

¡P             Monitoring methodology;

¡P             Name of laboratory and equipment used and calibration details;

¡P             Parameters monitored;

¡P             Monitoring locations (and depth); and

¡P             Monitoring date, time, frequency, and duration.

(e)        Report on Complaints, Notifications of Summons and Successful Prosecutions

¡P           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;

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

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

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

(f)        Others

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

(g)        Appendix

¡P           Supporting documents

¡P           Outstanding issues and deficiencies.

11.4                                                      Quarterly EM&A Summary Reports

The quarterly EM&A summary report shall be prepared by the ET, certified by the ET Leader and verified by the IEC.  The quarterly EM&A summary report should contain the following listed information:

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

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

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

¡P           Monitoring parameters;

¡P           Environmental quality performance limits (Action and Limit levels); and

¡P           Environmental mitigation measures, as stated in the current EP and recommended in this updated EM&A Manual;

(d)    Advice on the implementation status of environmental protection and pollution control/mitigation measures, as stated in the current EP and recommended in this updated EM&A Manual, summarised in the updated implementation schedule;

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

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

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

¡P           Weather conditions during the period; and

¡P           Any other factors which might affect the monitoring results;

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

11.5                                                      Annual EM&A Review Report

The Annual EM&A Review Report shall be prepared by the ET, certified by the ET Leader and verified by the IEC.  The Annual EM&A Review Report should contain the following listed information:

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

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

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

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

¡P           Monitoring parameters;

¡P           Environmental quality performance limits (Action and Limit levels); and

¡P           Environmental mitigation measures, as stated in the current EP and recommended in this updated EM&A Manual;

(e)                          Summary of the implementation status of environmental protection and pollution control/mitigation measures, as stated in the current EP and recommended in this updated EM&A Manual, summarised in the updated implementation schedule;

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

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

¡P           Weather conditions during the period; and

¡P           Any other factors which might affect the monitoring results;

(g)                          A summary of non-compliance (exceedances) of the environmental quality performance limits (A/L levels);

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

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

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

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

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

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

11.6                                                      Final EM&A Summary Report

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

The final EM&A summary report shall be prepared by the ET, certified by the ET Leader and verified by the IEC.  The final EM&A summary report shall include, inter alia, the following:

(a)    An executive summary;

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

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

(d)    A brief summary of EM&A requirements including: environmental mitigation measures, as stated in the current EP and recommended in this updated EM&A Manual;

(e)    Advice on the implementation status of environmental protection and pollution control/mitigation measures, as stated in the current EP and recommended in this updated EM&A Manual summarised in the updated implementation schedule;

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

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

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

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

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

(k)    A conclusion to state the return of ambient and/or the predicted scenario as per findings of the approved EIA Report and updates associated with the latest design.

11.7                                                      Data Keeping

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

 


 



([1])     It should be noted that under the SENTX contract, the IC and the IEC is the same company and the checking and verification of the environmental mitigation measures and other aspects of the EM&A programme will be carried by the IEC.


 [CL1]