9. Environmental management plan

Transcription

1 9. Environmental management plan 9.1 Introduction Purpose of the EMP The Environmental Management Plan (EMP) investigates the environmental issues in relation to the SunSouth 132 kv powerline project and sets out strategies and action items for future development in an Environmental Management Plan (EMP). The over-arching aim of this EMP is to ensure that all impacts identified in the Initial Assessment Report (IAR) are managed to a point where they can be eliminated or alternatively minimised or mitigated to an acceptable level and in accordance with relevant legislative and policy requirements. This EMP is considered to be a working document and will require regular updates as more information and detail, in relation to design and construction, becomes available. Additionally, it will be updated throughout the life of the asset. Updates may be triggered by changes in legislation, site activities, technology, information or community expectations. Whilst included as part of the IAR for the Project, this EMP is also a standalone document and will be enforced by ENERGEX environmental control staff overseeing development of the Project Objectives of the EMP ENERGEX is committed to carrying out its activities in an environmentally responsible manner and has integrated responsible environmental management into all business activities and as such operates in accordance with the requirements of its certified ISO Environmental Management System (EMS). This draft EMP will ensure that all works undertaken will meet appropriate environmental commitments as outlined in the IAR as well as statutory and policy requirements. This EMP provides higher level mitigation measures to minimise or mitigate the identified impacts of the Project. The EMP also identifies corrective actions if monitoring indicates that the performance requirements have not been met and flags the responsible parties to undertake the action/s required. The EMP provides: a practical framework for establishing best practice environmental management strategies and standards to eliminate, mitigate or manage potential environmental impacts associated with each phase of the Project lifecycle evidence of practical and achievable plans for the management of the Project to ensure that environmental commitments and requirements are compiled with using the environmental management framework. The draft EMP comprises a number of action plans relating to environmental, social or economic elements as identified in this IAR. Each action plan identifies potential environmental impacts, mitigation measures and details corrective action(s) to be implemented if an undesirable impact or incident were to occur. The structure of each action plan is as follows: PARSONS BRINCKERHOFF C RPT003-E Page 9.1

2 each action plan is divided into pre-construction, construction, operation and maintenance phases the operational policy which applies to the action plan is described the performance criteria for each action plan are provided the implementation strategies to achieve the performance standards are nominated the monitoring and procedures to assess performance are described the procedure for reporting of monitoring and results is described the corrective action or choice of corrective action is identified. ENERGEX assets generally have a minimum design life of 50 years and changes to environmental management requirements, policies and legislation are expected during that period. Therefore, the decommissioning phase of the asset is not included in the scope of this EMP, but will be the subject of a separate EMP to be developed immediately prior to decommissioning activities being carried out. The decommissioning EMP will reflect the legislative and community expectations at the time of the decommissioning. 9.2 Background to the EMP ENERGEX is responsible for the asset and takes responsibility for ensuring implementation and compliance with this EMP. ENERGEX is also responsible for ensuring that mitigation measures and corrective actions that meet the stated performance criteria are taken. ENERGEX will ensure that these requirements are met by appointing a Project Environmental Officer (PEO) throughout the construction phase of the project. The PEO will work jointly with the construction team(s) throughout construction works. Where a Principal Contractor is engaged to build the project or parts thereof, their management team will also include a qualified and suitably experienced Environmental Officer (EO) Legislative requirements, permits and approvals This EMP should be viewed as a working document. The EMP will require updates in response to changes in environmental legislation and improvements in best practice environmental management. It will be the responsibility of ENERGEX to implement these changes, ensuring that this document is continually updated. It will be the responsibility of the Project Manager or Principal Contractor to ensure that all changes reflected in this document are implemented. Table 9.1 provides a list of relevant legislation, policies, guidelines and standards that should be referred to when making decisions and resolving complaints in respect of matters relating to this EMP. Page C RPT003-E PARSONS BRINCKERHOFF

3 Table 9.1 Environmental legislation, policies and standards relevant to the Project Issue Construction general Noise Air quality Water quality and erosion and sediment control Relevant legislation, policies, standards etc. Environmental Protection Act 1994 Environmental Protection Regulation 2008 Workplace Health and Safety Act 1995 Workplace Health and Safety Regulation 2008 AS /2: 1997 Acoustics Description and management of environmental noise AS 2436: 1981 Guide to noise control on construction, maintenance and demolition sites Environmental Protection Act 1994 Environmental Protection (Noise) Policy 2008 Noise Measurement Manual (Environmental Protection Agency 2001) User's guide to the Environment Protection (Noise) Policy (Environmental Protection Agency 1997) National Environment Protection Council, National Environment Protection Measures for Ambient Air Quality Environmental Protection Act 1994 Environmental Protection (Air) Policy 2008 Australian and New Zealand Guidelines for Fresh and Marine Water Quality (ANZECC, 2000) Water Act 2000 Environmental Protection Act 1994 Environmental Protection (Water) Policy 2009 Queensland Water Quality Guidelines 2009 (Environmental Protection Agency 2009)) Best Practice Erosion and Sediment Control, IECA 2008 Picton NSW. State Planning Policy 4/10 Healthy Waters (SPP 4/10) State Planning Policy 4/10 Healthy Waters Guideline Urban Stormwater Quality Planning Guidelines (DERM 2010) Contaminated land Environmental Protection Act 1994 Draft Guidelines for the Assessment and Management of Contaminated Land, May 1998 (Department of Environment (Qld Government) 1998) Storage and handling of dangerous goods Transport of dangerous goods AS 1940: 2004, The storage and handling of flammable and combustible liquids Dangerous Goods Safety Management Act 2001 Workplace Health and Safety Act 1995 Workplace Health and Safety Regulation 2008 Environmental Protection Act 1994 Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Road Act 1984 Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Road Regulation 1989 Waste management Environmental Protection Act 1994 Environmental Protection (Waste Management) Regulation 2000 Environment Protection (Waste Management) Policy 2000 Waste Management Strategy for Queensland 1996 PARSONS BRINCKERHOFF C RPT003-E Page 9.3

4 Issue Relevant legislation, policies, standards etc. Flora and fauna Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 Cultural and heritage issues Animal Care and Protection Act 2001 Nature Conservation Act 1992 Nature Conservation (Wildlife) Regulation 2006 Vegetation Management Act 1999 Vegetation Management Regulation 2000 Water Act 2000 Agricultural Chemicals Distribution Control Act 1966 Land Protection (Pest and Stock Route Management) Act 2002 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Heritage Protection Act 1986 Environment and Heritage Legislation Amendment Act (No. 1) 2003 Australian Heritage Council Act 2003 Australian Heritage Council (Consequential and Transitional Provisions) Act 2003 Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 Native Title Act 1993 Native Title (Queensland) Act 1993 Queensland Heritage Act 1992 Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Act 2003 Iconic Queensland Places Act 2008 Land use control Sustainable Planning Act 2009 Electric and magnetic fields and corona noise Land Protection (Pest and Stock Route Management) Act 2002 Transport Infrastructure Act 1994 Land Act 1994 Forestry Act 1959 Petroleum and Gas (Production and Safety) Act 2004 AS 60265: 2005 High voltage switches High voltage switches for rated voltages of 52 kv and above AS/NZS : 1999 Insulators Porcelain and glass for overhead powerlines Voltages greater than 1000 V ac Test methods In addition to the legislation, policies, guidelines and standards identified above, a review of the statutory framework for the Project (refer Chapter 4 of the IAR) ) has indicated that a number of approvals, licenses and permits may be required to facilitate both the construction and operational phases of the Project. Prior to construction commencing, ENERGEX or their appointed contractors, will make applications to the relevant government authorities to obtain all the necessary permits, licences and approvals (as identified in Appendix E) required before proceeding ENERGEX environmental policy ENERGEX recognises current industry standards for Environmental Management and Ecologically Sustainable Development as a corporate commitment. ENERGEX also operates in accordance with an Environmental Policy and is underpinned by its EMS. Page C RPT003-E PARSONS BRINCKERHOFF

5 It is the policy of ENERGEX that, within the environmental, economic and social obligations of: a safe and reliable energy supply compliance with applicable legal requirements compliance with other Corporately subscribed initiatives sound business practices regard for employee, customer and community environmental expectations. ENERGEX will adopt all reasonable and practical measures to: continually improve its Environmental Management System (EMS) in conformance with ISO14001, by establishing, monitoring and reviewing EMS objectives and targets monitor and review environmental documentation, processes and performance to address non-conformances and facilitate continual improvement support a philosophy of preventing environmental harm associated with the impacts of all activities contribute to the development of employee, industry and community environmental awareness and protection report on our environmental performance internally and externally work within a sustainability framework and use resources responsibly to minimise waste and maximise value to the community and future generations. This IAR and EMP have been prepared with reference to ENERGEX s Environmental Policy. 9.3 General environmental management measures and procedures Personnel training Staff and contractor training ENERGEX will appoint an environmental officer to the Project (Project Environmental Officer, PEO). The PEO or the Principal Construction Contractor s EO will be responsible for the delivery of environmental inductions and on-going training during the construction process. ENERGEX s maintenance staff will be responsible for staff training during the operation and maintenance phases of the Project. Environmental management training will be provided in accordance with the provisions outlined in this document as part of the induction process as relevant to each subcontractor and/or employee. Records of all training conducted for ENERGEX staff are kept by ENERGEX. It will be the responsibility of all contractors and subcontractors working for ENERGEX to keep their own training records. A review of all training records should occur during the construction phase of works as part of regular compliance checks. Project staff, both employees and contractors will be required to undertake the relevant inductions required for the project including a Cultural Heritage induction provided by a Representative of the Traditional Party/s. PARSONS BRINCKERHOFF C RPT003-E Page 9.5

6 Preconstruction The Project Manager/s (PM) and EO s will ensure that all personnel working on the project during the preconstruction and planning phase of the Project are aware of the requirements of the EMP. Key commitments and preliminary design issues are incorporated into the developing documentation, in preparation for hand over to the Construction team/s. In cases where activities are to be conducted which are not specifically included in this EMP (e.g. preconstruction site investigations) the PM s will ensure that all staff follow the ENERGEX environmental management standard and guidelines along with the relevant legislative requirements. Construction The PEO will be responsible for ensuring that all the relevant staff are adequately trained regarding the contents, interpretation, responsibilities and performance measures contained within the CEMP and that personnel working on the project have sufficient knowledge and awareness to identify unforseen environmental issues. Unless otherwise specified, the Principal Contractor for ENERGEX will be responsible for ensuring that all site personnel are trained/inducted into the requirements of the EMP prior to site personnel carrying out any work. All construction personnel involved with the Project will be required to participate in an environmental induction prior to their commencement of work on site. The induction/s should include (but not be limited to) the following or be preceded by provision of the following: awareness of the general environmental requirements and commitments for the Project, including key site specific management measures information on the responsibilities of the various stakeholders and the part they will play in the development of the Project. This information will contain the contact information for key stakeholders training in any corrective actions that may be required in the event that an environmental incident occurs training in the procedures for incident and complaints reporting induction into cultural heritage values and management procedures. Operation and maintenance phases ENERGEX is responsible for appointing an officer with the authority and responsibility for ensuring that relevant training is provided to field staff to ensure compliance with the relevant environmental documentation during the operation and maintenance phases of the Project. Training for maintenance personnel is covered by ENERGEX training requirements General of work processes will be undertaken to determine the impact to the environment as a consequence of project construction, operation and maintenance. General monitoring and will be conducted at least weekly throughout the construction phase. Inspections of the operational sub-transmission line and substations will occur in accordance with ENERGEX standards, policies and procedures. Line inspections usually occur at a Page C RPT003-E PARSONS BRINCKERHOFF

7 minimum of annual intervals during the operation and maintenance phases particularly in relation to the management of vegetation issues. ENERGEX has several BMS (Business Management Systems) documents that regulate maintenance activities and incorporate environmental compliance matters. Regular audits should be undertaken to ensure compliance with the EMP. Requirements will be communicated via the management and field teams during project team meetings and Toolbox talks. All records of such audits will be updated and maintained by ENERGEX or be made available to ENERGEX through the Principal Contractors records. ENERGEX is responsible for conducting follow up investigations where required and ensuring that corrective actions are being implemented for any non compliances that are detected. Any legislative breaches or near miss environmental events are registered in esafe ENERGEXs Health, Safety, and Environment Management system. The primary objective of this system is to capture and report on incident or near miss information but it also captures licences and permits, audits, safety visits and standalone actions. Investigations relating to environmental incidents involve the ENRGEX Corporate Environment Group. Preconstruction The ENERGEX project team will be responsible for ensuring that all relevant information required for the EMP is updated and finalised before the construction phase begins. The PEO will also be responsible for ensuring that all appropriate approvals and permits are outlined correctly and fully in this document for the scope of works known or anticipated. The ENERGEX project team provide input from their respective departments to ensure that any requirements, agreements or commitments are highlighted and handed onto the construction team. Construction All ENERGEX staff and contractors working on the Project are required to report any and all environmental issues or incidents that occur, to their direct supervisor, whom shall be responsible for ensuring that these reported incidents are relayed to the ENERGEX Project Manager. This reporting action forms part of a General Environmental Duty as described under the Environmental Project Act That duty states that a person must not carry out an activity that causes or is likely to cause environmental harm unless the person takes all reasonable and practical measures to prevent or minimise the harm. The Project Manager will consult with the PEO and the project team to identify and implement the appropriate corrective action(s) and future preventative measures. A framework that outlines the relevant standards for resolving environmental issues or incidents to be used by contractors in the field will be referenced in any contract paperwork between ENERGEX and the contractor/s undertaking the works on behalf of ENERGEX. An environmental issues register will be kept throughout the construction phase of the project. Items to be included as part of the register will provide details of actions taken to rectify observed non-conformances with the CEMP. PARSONS BRINCKERHOFF C RPT003-E Page 9.7

8 The response to all environmental incidents will be carried out in accordance with the requirements of ENERGEX s procedures. This process will also comply with the requirements of all levels of Government Agency. The Project Manager or other relevant parties will be informed of any non-conformances and may be directed by the auditor to cease works until such time that rectification of any nonconformances has occurred. The implementation of the CEMP will be recorded throughout the construction phase usually by the PEO with updates to other project documentation including meeting minutes usually being the responsibility of the Project Management and team/s. Any non conformances against the CEMP will be recorded and will include corrective actions as appropriate. Operation and maintenance phase Staff and contractors working for ENERGEX will report any environmental non conformances against the performance criteria of the relevant ENERGEX environmental and asset management documentation directly to their superior or section/project manager. The section/project manager will report any environmental incidents immediately to the Environmental Management Office who in conjunction with the section/project manager will implement the appropriate mitigation. The should be reviewed to determine its effectiveness. Adequate records of this should be kept by the ENERGEX department for asset management and in the ENERGEX Health, Safety and Environment Management system. Maintenance inspection intervals will be established to ensure regular and appropriate maintenance of the distribution line and easement are conducted in accordance with ENERGEX s maintenance regime and with best environmental practice in mind Complaints procedure Complaints procedures and registers form part of the project management system and reporting requirements. Contact details for the project, particularly in the construction phase refer the enquiry or complaint to a project hotline enabling the coordination of all project complaint and concern issues. Field staff are often the first point of contact, and the PEOs and other field personnel are readily available to the stakeholders to help implement this procedure Stakeholders Stakeholders related to this project will include (but may not be limited to) the following: traditional owners directly affected property owners the immediate general community owners of infrastructure, including utilities, communication lines and roads government agencies. 9.4 Environmental action plans Specific action plans have been developed for the Project and are included below. These plans aim to provide high level implementation strategies and a framework for the development of each site specific EWP. Page C RPT003-E PARSONS BRINCKERHOFF

9 9.4.1 Soils and geology (including erosion and sediment control and contaminated land) Table 9.2 Soils and geology Policy Performance criteria Pre construction SunSouth 132 kv Power Project Compliance with the provisions of the Environmental Protection Act 1994 and with the Department of Environment and Resource Management Draft Guidelines for the Assessment and Management of Contaminated Land. Erosion and sediment control work undertaken along the easement will ensure compliance with the State Planning Policy 04/10 Guideline for Healthy Waters 2010, State Planning Policy 04/10 Guideline and Urban Stormwater Quality Planning Guidelines (DERM, 2010), the Sunshine Coast Regional Council s Erosion and Sediment Control Manual (Version 1.2) and will be consistent with best practice environmental management of stormwater as outlined in Best Practice Erosion and Sediment Control, IECA 2008 Picton NSW. Drainage control during the construction phase should also be designed and constructed in accordance with the IECA 2008 or the Sunshine Coast Regional Council s Erosion and Sediment Control Manual (Version 1.2). Ensure the prevention of environmental health risks posed from any contaminated sites along the easements in accordance with the requirements of the Environmental Protection Act To avoid, where possible, and/or minimise the occurrence and impacts of erosion and sedimentation within all works areas. Implement Erosion and Sediment Control Plan. Prevent the release of untreated water to roadside gutters, stormwater drains, watercourses and drainage features. Identification and management of contaminated sites along the easement in accordance with the Environmental Protection Act Stable sites (i.e. absence of erosion) at completion of works. Establish and/or maintain suitable vegetative cover or erosion and sediment controls in all work areas. Detailed earthwork profiles will be undertaken during the detailed design stage of the Project. Conduct preliminary geotechnical investigations to determine bearing capacity, excavation characteristics, trafficability and settlement properties of soil and rocks. Conduct soil erosion hazard potential testing to inform an erosion hazard assessment process as per Chapter 3 of the Sunshine Coast Regional Council s Erosion and Sediment Control Manual (Version 1.2). Ensure that all watercourses that are to be crossed by the project (either temporarily or permanently) are identified and appropriately catered for in the design. Factors to consider should include the appropriate location of structures and correct compliance with legislative requirements. Prepare a site specific Erosion and Sediment Control Plan in accordance with the Sunshine Coast Regional Council s Erosion and Sediment Control Manual (Version 1.2). If during any site earthworks or excavation, offensive or noxious odours and/or evidence of contamination not previously detected is observed: site works are to cease in that area and action taken to immediately remove the potential environmental harm the administering authority is to be notified in writing within two (2) business days of detection and advised of appropriate remedial action PARSONS BRINCKERHOFF C RPT003-E Page 9.9

10 Construction SunSouth 132 kv Power Project any remedial action is to be developed by an appropriate, qualified and experienced person in accordance with Section 381 of the Environmental Protection Act under section 371 (1) of the Environmental Protection Act 1994, if the owner or occupier of land becomes aware that a notifiable activity is being carried out on the land, the owner or occupier must, within 22 business days after becoming aware of the activity being carried out, give notice under the subsection to the administering authority in the approved form. Not applicable to this phase. Not applicable to this phase. Ensure that existing access tracks are utilised where possible to reduce the amount of earthworks and potential for erosion to occur. Where required, negotiations are to be undertaken with land owners to seek approval regarding the use of existing tracks or access roads on private property and adjacent properties to gain access. Ensure that appropriate soil management measures are implemented throughout the construction alignment. These should be specifically catered to the soil characteristics found on site. Provide a gravel traffic layer to manage against water logging and poor workability following rain, if necessary. Position access tracks to minimise impacts to agricultural land use (i.e. pastures) where practicable. Locate infrastructure, access roads, parking, laydown, break and winch sites in previously cleared (e.g. grassed) areas, or at sites with minimal slope grade, where practicable. Ensure that all topsoil is stripped and replaced subsequent to the completion of construction activities. Stripped topsoil is to be stored in piles not exceeding 2 meters in height, on flat terrain, and are to be protected from erosion by installation of erosion fencing. Avoid disturbing vegetation in the bed and banks of all rivers, creeks and streams and ensure that the geomorphology of these areas is preserved. Avoid (if possible) the exposure of alkaline or sodic subsoils. If required, limit the time of exposure. Any exposed sodic or alkaline subsoils should be remediated by covering with non dispersive soil or other suitable material to minimise water infiltration into these soils. Limit all vegetation clearing, including grass ground cover to the minimum required for Project works. All cleared areas should have adequate drainage measures in place and will have erosion and sediment control measures installed prior to clearing or immediately after the fact. Sediment control devices such as sediment fences are to be installed at the base of slopes and cuts. Baffle slopes will be dressed with rock lining, geofabric, mulched vegetation from site clearing or similar cover material to minimise erosion. Ensure bare areas are revegetated and covered with mulch subsequent to the completion of works. Continual monitoring for the presence of ASS in all excavation areas and in particular at substation sites. If during any site earthworks or excavation, offensive or noxious odours and/or evidence of gross contamination not previously detected is observed: site works are to cease in that area and action taken to immediately abate the potential environmental harm the administering authority is to be notified in writing within two (2) business days of detection and advised of appropriate remedial action PARSONS BRINCKERHOFF C RPT003-E Page 9.10

11 Operation and maintenance SunSouth 132 kv Power Project any remedial action is to be developed by an appropriate, qualified and experienced person in accordance with Section 381 of the Environmental Protection Act 1974 under section 371 (1) of the Environmental Protection Act 1974, if the owner or occupier of land becomes aware that a notifiable activity is being carried out on the land, the owner or occupier must, within 22 business days after becoming aware of the activity being carried out, give notice under the subsection to the administering authority in the approved form. Monitoring of soil and erosion and sediment control management strategies is to be undertaken weekly by the PEO during construction. Ensure that event based monitoring is undertaken e.g. immediately after heavy periods of rainfall. The PEO will record any non compliance or failure of a mitigation measure in the Environment Issues Register. The register will include the following details; the date, the nature of the issue, the remedial action taken and any monitoring required as a result. Immediately re instate appropriate erosion and sediment control devices after the identification of a failure. Immediately install appropriate erosion and sediment control devices if erosion or sedimentation has occurred in area that has not had adequate measures installed. Consult with any affected land owners to inform them of the breach and the action taken to rectify the problem. Develop and implement a post construction Environmental Management Plan for the operational and maintenance phases of the Project. The plan will detail the type of measures which have been implemented and how they work. Appropriate maintenance for each control type should be implemented. A detail of each different control type and the appropriate remediation action strategies which aim to control each type of failure event. Ensure that erosion and sediment control measures are correctly maintained until disturbed areas have stabilised. Such devices shall only be removed once rehabilitation work is deemed successful. Ongoing monitoring of areas with dispersive subsoils prone to erosion should occur to ensure that tunnel erosion is avoided. Ongoing monitoring of erosion and sediment control measures to determine their effectiveness if installed as part of design. Annual assessment of any erosion issues as captured by ENERGEX easement patrol staff. The PEO or line manager will record any non conformances and outline the corrective action taken. Where required, a work order will be generated to notify ENERGEX maintenance crews of areas or structures requiring attention. Stabilisation of areas that have suffered erosion or sediment build up followed by correct erosion and sediment management of the area until it has reached stabilisation and been adequately rehabilitated. PARSONS BRINCKERHOFF C RPT003-E Page 9.11

12 9.4.2 Acid sulphate soils Table 9.3 Acid sulfate soils Policy Performance criteria Pre construction Construction Prevent environmental and health risks arising from disturbance of any ASS occurring in any work areas, in accordance with the requirements of the Environmental Protection Act 1994, Environmental Protection (Water) Policy 2009 and Environmental Protection Regulation Satisfy the State Planning Policy 2/02 Guidelines Planning and Managing Development involving Acid Sulfate Soils. Satisfy the State Planning Policy SP 4/10 Healthy Waters Development Assessment Code. Satisfy the Queensland Acid Sulfate Soils Technical Manual Soils Management Guidelines Version 3.8. Minimal disturbance to ASS as a result of the Project. Testing and treatment of ASS in accordance with the Queensland Acid Sulfate Soils Technical Manual Soils Management Guidelines Version 3.8. Before any earthworks are undertaken, geotechnical investigations will investigate the presence of ASS in all areas where excavation is required and in particular at all substation sites. If initial investigations indicate that ASS occurs in any of the proposed excavation areas, an ASS management plan will be developed before construction commences. Not applicable to this phase. Records of core drill and test pit sample result sheets will be held by the Construction Manager. Not applicable to this phase. If ASS is detected in a work area, the PEO will be advised and work shall cease until an ASS management plan is developed and implemented. Undertake monitoring in accordance with the Queensland Acid Sulfate Soils Technical Manual Soils Management Guidelines Version 3.8. Sample collection and testing records kept to confirm the presence or absence of ASS within work areas. In the instance that environmental harm occurs in relation to ASS during the construction phase, the PEO and the Construction Manager will be immediately advised and professional advice to remediate any impacts will be sought directly. If ASS is encountered in the excavations, the disturbed soils will be treated with an appropriate neutralising agent in accordance with the site specific ASS management plan and the Queensland Acid Sulfate Soils Technical Manual Soils Management Guidelines Version 3.8. PARSONS BRINCKERHOFF C RPT003-E Page 9.12

13 Operation and maintenance (it is unlikely that any operation and maintenance issues will result regarding ASS unless excavation is required) For any future maintenance that requires earthworks in the identified ASS areas, ensure that pre excavation soil sampling and testing occurs. Any ASS encountered as a result of sampling and testing will be reported to the ENERGEX appointed Environmental Officer, who will in turn ensure development and implementation of an ASS management plan. Implement the pre construction and construction monitoring requirements as outlined above. The ENERGEX appointed PEO will ensure all soil sampling and testing records are kept in accordance with the developed ASS management plan. If ASS is encountered in the excavations, the disturbed soils will be treated with an appropriate neutralising agent in accordance with the ASS management plan and the Queensland Acid Sulfate Soils Technical Manual Soils Management Guidelines Version 3.8. PARSONS BRINCKERHOFF C RPT003-E Page 9.13

14 9.4.3 Hydrology and water quality Table 9.4 Hydrology and water quality Policy Performance criteria Pre construction Ensure compliance with the State Planning Policy Guideline for Healthy Waters 2010, State Planning Policy 4/10 Guideline and Urban Stormwater Quality Planning Guidelines (DERM, 2010). Ensure compliance with the Environmental Protection Act 1994, the Environmental Protection (Water) Policy 1997 and Water Act Ensure compliance with the Mooloolah River environmental values and water quality objectives Basin No. 141 (part), including all tributaries of the Mooloolah River (DERM, 2010). Ensure that all risks to hydrological values that are in proximity to the alignment are minimised. Work within the North Bells Creek catchment is to be in accordance with the Pumicestone Passage Environmental Values and Water Quality Objectives - Part Basin 141 (July 2010). Construction and operation of the Project will not result in permanent deterioration of water flow or quality in creeks or drainage lines within or immediately downstream of the Final Site/Corridor. Detailed design to provide appropriate setback of distribution line structures away from rivers, watercourses, banks and drainage lines. Develop a water quality management measures for implementation during construction for the management of water quality These measures should incorporate sampling of: Surface water runoff at discharge points from the site area Waters within the Mooloolah River, Sippy Creek north arm of Currimundi Creek and Bells Creek North adjacent to any flow inlet points from the Project area. The water quality management measures will ensure that event based sampling occurs (i.e. directly after heavy rainfall events) or at times where impacts to water quality as a result of project works become evident within the adjacent Mooloolah River, Sippy Creek north arm of Currimundi Creek and Bells Creek North waterways. The water quality management measures will be developed in accordance with the following Water Quality Objectives extracted from the Mooloolah River environmental values and water quality objectives (DERM, 2010): Turbidity: <6 NTU Suspended solids: <15 mg/l Chlorophyll a: <2 µg/l Total nitrogen: <200 µg/l Oxidised N: <3 µg/l Ammonia N: <8 µg/l PARSONS BRINCKERHOFF C RPT003-E Page 9.14

15 Construction Organic N: <180 µg/l Total phosphorus: <20 µg/l Filterable reactive phosphorus (FRP): <6 µg/l Dissolved oxygen: % saturation ph: secchi depth: >1.5m. Ensure the preparation of Erosion and Sediment Control Plan in accordance with the Sunshine Coast Regional Council s Erosion and Sediment Control Manual (Version 1.2) as discussed in Table 8.3 above. The Erosion and sediment control Plan(s) must be by suitable qualified persons as specified in the SCRC manual or the State Planning Policy 4/10. The ESCP will outline specific and appropriate sediment and erosion control measures (including treatment trains if required) for the construction phase of works. The ESCP will cater for the separation of clean and dirty run-off within the construction area. Clean waters can generally be discharged from the site untreated whilst sediment laden waters must first pass through a treatment device or system to remove particulates and contaminants. Evidence of consideration of watercourses in design and construction methodology during detailed design. Not applicable to this work phase. Implement the site specific Erosion and Sediment Control Plan and ensure the installation of sediment retention devices across all stormwater drain access points and prior to the entrance of any surface waters into the Mooloolah River or the north arm of Currimundi creek. The construction contractor will undertake regular monitoring and maintenance for all sediment retention devices throughout the Project construction works to ensure the operation of such devices is optimised throughout construction works. Implement the Project water quality management measures and ensure that waters being discharged from the site are sampled for the following criteria as a minimum: Turbidity Suspended solids ph conductivity. Where possible, schedule surface disturbance and construction works in drier parts of the year to reduce rainfall erosion potential. Stage any vegetation clearing to limit the area exposed to erosive processes at any one time. Use existing access tracks and roads in favour of creating new tracks or driving on previously undisturbed ground. Minimise disturbance to ground surfaces and soil and utilise existing cleared areas for material stockpiles and layover areas. Ensure that all hazardous substances, including any fuels and chemicals are stored appropriately and with regard to MSDS specifications. PARSONS BRINCKERHOFF C RPT003-E Page 9.15

16 Operation and maintenance Ensure all vehicles are well maintained to reduce the likelihood of oil leakage. All spills should be cleaned up immediately. No maintenance of vehicles used in construction activities is to be carried out in the field, these activities are to be limited to purpose built service facilities. Ensure all personnel receive training in accidental spill clean up and management procedures. Develop a dewatering management measures (as part of the EMP) to ensure that groundwater that has permeated construction voids is removed and relocated without impact on the quality of the receiving land soils or surface waters. Visual monitoring of the water quality in all creeks and waterways crossed by the Project and downstream of the construction activity is to be undertaken on a weekly basis by the PEO. In the event of a non compliance of water quality objectives or impedance to flow, the non compliance will be recorded in the Environmental Issues Register by the Environmental Officer. The record should state the circumstances that occurred to facilitate the failure and outline the corrective actions implemented to rectify. Immediate cessation of the activity that caused or contributed to the non conformance. Immediately take action to reinstate the water quality objectives. Immediately remove any obstacles that may have prohibited the flow within water courses and drainage lines. Immediately rehabilitate and stabilise watercourse beds and banks where riparian vegetation has inadvertently been damaged. Action Plans will be updated if required, due to the failure of water quality and flow protection devices. Immediate remediation of any accidental spills or foreign substances. Visual inspections of the bed and banks of waterways should be undertaken during the regular line maintenance periods. Inspections should focus on monitoring of watercourse bed and banks immediately adjacent to constructed watercourse crossings to determine if bank erosion or washouts are occurring. The PEO or line manager is to record any non conformances and outline the corrective action taken. Where required, a work order will be generated to notify ENERGEX maintenance crews of areas or structures requiring attention. In the case where erosion or flow impedance has occurred, ENERGEX maintenance crews will be required to undertake repair or remedial works to re instate the area. Prior to the commencement of remedial works, ENERGEX will need to liaise with the appropriate local government and/or administrative authority to obtain the necessary permits to conduct works on and within the bed and banks of a waterway and employ the appropriate management strategies as required. PARSONS BRINCKERHOFF C RPT003-E Page 9.16

17 9.4.4 Climate and air quality Table 9.5 Climate and air quality Policy Performance criteria Pre construction Construction To minimise the impact of dust and other particulate emissions generated as a result of construction and maintenance activities. Ensure compliance with the Environmental Protection Act 1994 and the Environmental Protection (Air) Policy No air quality complaints from nearby residences. Ensure planning and design of the Project will aim to stage vegetation clearing and retain ground cover where able, to reduce the area of disturbance and minimise the potential for erosion and wind entrainment of dispersive soils. Ensure servicing schedules are developed for all plant and machinery in accordance with manufacturer s specifications to reduce the potential for polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) spills and the need for in the field maintenance. Notify all adjoining land owners of the proposed construction and maintenance activities. Not relevant to this phase. Not relevant to this phase. Not relevant to this phase. General: use existing roads and access tracks to minimise the need for earthworks stage vegetation clearing activities and retain ground cover where possible to minimise the areas of ground surface exposed to wind entrainment ensure that the loads of all haulage vehicles are covered when delivering materials to, or removing materials from, work areas ensure that reduced speed limits over exposed surfaces are enforced ensure that all equipment having the potential to affect air quality values is fitted with dust collection devices when required, water trucks and/or dust suppressants should be utilised road sweeping or (similar) of any sealed roads that are frequently trafficked by construction vehicles locate all stockpiled spoil away from sensitive receptors incorporate erosion mitigation measures for any stockpiles that will be stored for extended periods including covering or stabilisation with grass cover. PARSONS BRINCKERHOFF C RPT003-E Page 9.17

18 Machinery: ensure all vehicles and machinery are switched off when not in use ensure that vehicles and machinery are not left idling for extended periods of time in close proximity to sensitive receptors all vehicles should be fitted with appropriate filters to reduce particulate emissions. Odour control: Operation and maintenance ensure vegetative waste is chipped or mulched in preference to burning ensure that all machinery is not left idling or operational when not in use. The Construction Manager and PEO will be aware of and monitor all emissions and particulate dispersal. Where required, monitoring of plant or equipment that has previously caused nuisance to ensure that corrective actions are appropriate. The PEO will keep a record of all complaints in the Complaints Register. The register is to include the following details; the date, the nature of the complaint, the remedial action taken and any monitoring required as a result. Where required, ENERGEX will supply administering authorities with all air quality nuisance complaints received. s will include water spraying for dust suppression or cessation of plant or equipment causing the nuisance emission. Ensure that all vehicles and machinery are switched off when not in use. Ensure that vehicles and machinery are not left idling for extended periods of time in close proximity to sensitive receptors. All vehicles should be fitted with appropriate filters to reduce particulate emissions. Monitoring of operation and maintenance activities to ensure compliance with the performance requirements as specified in this action plan. ENERGEX maintenance crews will keep a register of all complaints received in relation to air quality impacts. The register will include the following details: date, nature of the complaint, remedial action taken and any monitoring as required. Appropriate actions will include water spraying for dust suppression or operation, cessation of plant or equipment causing the nuisance emission. PARSONS BRINCKERHOFF C RPT003-E Page 9.18

19 9.4.5 Biological environment Table 9.6 Biological environment Policy Performance criteria Pre construction To minimise the impacts on terrestrial flora and fauna that are likely to arise from the construction of the Project. If required, all waterway crossings are to be designed in accordance with the DPI s Why do fish need to cross the road? Fish passage requirements for waterway crossings (Fairfull & Witheridge 2003). Offsets for RE and essential habitat will be in accordance with the Queensland Government s issue-specific polices. Impacts or disturbance to flora and fauna values outside the required corridor width, substation footprint area, and access tracks should not occur except where deemed unavoidable for construction access. Vegetation clearing will conform with the performance requirements of the relevant vegetation management code and SWP I.6. Rehabilitation works are to ensure the health and establishment of an adequate groundcover and shrub layer within the easement. No increase in erosion and sedimentation to the waterways crossed by the easement is to occur. Avoid pole placement within the floodplain wetland to the immediate north of the Mooloolah River crossing, Endangered REs and vegetation representing RE A detailed search for threatened plants and acid frogs will be undertaken in the University of the Sunshine Coast Biodiversity Offset Area to prior to confirming pole locations so that they do not impact Threatened species that may be present. Where these pole locations cannot be shifted, species are to be translocated/relocated within the offset area. The design of the line across the Mooloolah River within the Mooloolaba to Meridan Plains East section should aim to minimise further clearing so as to minimise the reduce impact upon a greater number of mature canopy trees on the eastern side of the existing easement. This will also benefit the wetland immediately north of the Mooloolah River. Ensure all construction drawings and schematics clearly identify Endangered RE or Endangered regulated regrowth as a restricted area. Ensure that structure locations take into account areas of sensitive habitat and Endangered RE or regulated regrowth and where possible, consider design alterations or relocation to avoid impact. Ensure that all construction drawings and environmental work plans clearly define the location of threatened flora and essential habitat. Undertake a pre construction weed audit and develop a targeted weed management plan that will aim to begin controlling weeds before the construction phase commences. Ensure that construction planning incorporates an area for vehicle wash down. Ensure the development of a site specific landscape plan that integrates and complements the habitat values of the Project Area, where required: planting of a range of native shrubs, trees and groundcover plants incorporation of existing natural vegetation where possible linking of bushland remnants maintenance of plantings through a landscaping plan. Project offsets will include vegetation links to surrounding bushland. PARSONS BRINCKERHOFF C RPT003-E Page 9.19

20 Construction Not relevant to this phase. Specific management strategies for threatened communities and species will be developed prior to construction of the Project. Not relevant to this phase. The boundaries of all areas of remnant and high value regrowth vegetation which are analogous with an Endangered RE are to be clearly defined on the ground and No Go Zones clearly fenced and sign-posted to prevent unauthorised clearing and vehicular traffic. All construction drawings are to be clearly labelled with the intent and exclusion conditions of these clearance zones and the following conditions applied: no dumping of soil, organic (e.g. soil) or inorganic (e.g. concrete) matter into surrounding vegetated areas no refuelling of plant in the vicinity of waterways and sensitive vegetation. If required, storage of fuel and chemical within a designated, bunded area. No unrestricted use of herbicide, particularly foliar application. [Note: the creation of microhabitat via deposition of suitable terrestrial habitat logs would represent an exemption to the aforementioned ban on dumping of organic matter]. Undertake works in existing disturbed areas within vegetation in the University of the Sunshine Coast Biodiversity Offset Area, and no clearing of rehabilitated area without further assessment for threatened plants. Strict sediment and erosion controls should be implemented throughout the construction of the Project in this area and there should be limited access by vehicles and construction personnel in this area during construction. Habitat for Threatened species, as shown on Figure 6.4, should be clearly defined on construction drawings. Minimisation of clearing of canopy trees within microphyll vine forest and fringing sclerophyll forest, particularly Eucalyptus tereticornis. Helicopter stringing will be undertaken, where feasible, to avoid greater impacts to habitat, Endangered and Of Concern REs and gallery rainforest at the Mooloolah River. There will be no direct or indirect impacts to ecological communities or habitat within the Mooloolah River National Park or Meridan Plains Conservation Park. To maximise the permeability of easements for fauna it is recommended that where possible log and rock piles be established that cross the easement (to the extent practicable) to provide potential movement pathways for small ground dwelling species, and nesting boxes installed in suitable locations with land holders agreement. Where feasible structure heights will be increased or alternative clearing methods use to allow the retention of some woody vegetation to reduce the barrier effect of the easement, particularly in remnant vegetation west and southwest of the proposed Birtinya substation. Existing access tracks, roads or cleared areas will be utilised for construction and maintenance access to minimise unnecessary vegetation and habitat clearing. PARSONS BRINCKERHOFF C RPT003-E Page 9.20