Blast Management Plan

Transcription

1 Boggabri Coal Pty Ltd Blast Management Plan June 2013

2 Revision Control Chart Rev No Original Revision Date Prepared by November 2012 B Dillon/J McDonough June 2013 B Bird Reviewed by B Bird J Green Approved by J Green J Green Signed Distribution Control Controlled copies will be distributed to and retained by relevant personnel including key Boggabri Coal Pty Limited (BCPL), agency and contractor representatives. Company BCPL Department of Trade and Investment, Regional Infrastructure and Services Division of Resources and Energy Department of Planning and Infrastructure Downer EDI Mining Position Environment Superintendent Regional Environmental Officer Senior Planner Project Manager Uncontrolled Copies Uncontrolled copies may be issued on the authority of the BCPL Environment Superintendent. Such copies will neither be numbered nor kept up to date.

3 Contents Page Number 1. Introduction Site contacts Aim of this Blast Management Plan Elements covered by this Blast Management Plan 2 2. Statutory requirements 3 3. Existing environment Location of sensitive receptors Public infrastructure Heritage Neighbouring mining operations Prevalent meteorological conditions 6 4. Sources and types of blast impacts Ground vibration Airblast overpressure Fly rock Fume Misfires 8 5. Blasting criteria Blasting assessment criteria 9 6. Management measures Approved hours Blast fume management protocol Road closure management plan Mitigation measures for blasting activities Management of cumulative impacts Roles and responsibilities Monitoring Blast monitoring Parameters and frequency Locations Monitoring methodology Meteorological monitoring 21 BCPL Page i

4 7.3 Predictive meteorology system Reporting Blast pack Annual environmental management report Annual return Notification to regulatory authorities Notification to landholders and the community Incident and complaint management Incident management Complaint management Property inspections Corrective and preventative actions Non-compliances and corrective actions Preventive actions Training and awareness Site induction Toolbox talks Task specific training BLMP Review References 29 BCPL Page ii

5 List of Tables Table 1.1 Site contacts 1 Table 2.1 Summary of leases, licences and approvals 3 Table 2.2 Requirements of the Blast Management Plan 3 Table 5.1 Blasting criteria 9 Table 6.1 Approved hours 10 Table 6.2 Mitigation measures for blasting activities 12 Table 6.3 Roles and responsibilities for implementation of this plan 18 Table 7.1 Monitoring parameters 20 Table 7.2 Monitoring Locations 20 Table 7.3 Meteorological monitoring parameters 21 Table 8.1 Blast reporting requirements 22 List of Appendices Appendix A Blast monitoring and locality plan Appendix B Statutory requirements Appendix C Blast Fume Management Protocol Appendix D Record of stakeholder consultation Appendix E BTM Complex Blast Management Strategy BCPL Page iii

6 Glossary Glossary AEISG Australian Explosives Industry and Safety Group AEMR Annual Environmental Management Report AS Australian Standard BCPL Boggabri Coal Pty Limited BLMP Blast Management Plan BTM Complex Boggabri-Tarrawonga-Maules Creek Complex CCC Community Consultative Committee CEMP Construction Environment Management Plan DEC Department of Environment and Conservation DP&I Department of Planning and Infrastructure DRE NSW Department of Resources and Energy EA Environmental Assessment EP&A Act Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 EMP Environmental Management Plan EPA Environment Protection Agency EPL Environment Protection License MCC Maules Creek Coal Mine MET Meteorological monitoring station MIC Maximum Instantaneous Charge Mt Million tonnes Mtpa Million tonnes per annum NO Nitric oxide NO 2 Nitrogen dioxide OEH NSW Office of Environment and Heritage PAC NSW Planning and Assessment Commission POEO Act Protection of the Environment (Operations) Act, 1997 Project Approval Project Approval 09_0182 ROM Run of Mine TCPL Tarrawonga Coal Pty Limited Whitehaven Coal Whitehaven Coal Mining Pty Ltd BCPL Page iv

7 1. Introduction Boggabri Coal Mine is located 15 km north-east of the township of Boggabri in north-western New South Wales. The project is an open cut coal mine that has been operating since Truck and shovel operations are undertaken to produce a crushed and screened run-of-mine (ROM) coal product. Coal is transported on a sealed private haul road to a rail loading facility, where coal is dispatched for overseas consumption via the Port of Newcastle. The mine is managed by Boggabri Coal Pty Limited (BCPL), who engages contractors to undertake construction, mining, coal crushing and transportation activities. In 2009, BCPL lodged a major project application (the project) under the now-repealed Part 3A of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act, 1979 (EP&A Act). In the project application, Boggabri Coal sought to extend its mining operations for a further 21 years, and increase its production rate to 7 million tonnes per annum (Mtpa) of ROM coal from a total resource of 145 million tonnes (Mt). The project includes operation of existing ancillary equipment; construction of a new coal handling and preparation plant; a 17 km rail spur line; bridges over the Namoi River and Kamilaroi Highway; a rail load-out facility located at the mine; upgrade of the overburden and coal extraction haulage fleet (with an option for a dragline); upgrade of electricity transmission lines; and other ancillary infrastructure. The project application was determined by the NSW Planning Assessment Commission (PAC), under delegation by the Minister for Planning and Infrastructure. Project Approval 09_0182 (the Project Approval) was granted in July Schedule 3, Condition 22 of the Project Approval requires the preparation of a Blast Management Plan (BLMP). This plan has been prepared to fulfil these requirements. The specific requirements of the BLMP are listed in Table 2.2. All staff and contractors working at Boggabri Coal Mine are required to operate in compliance with this BLMP. 1.1 Site contacts The names and contact details of relevant BCPL employees and contractors are shown in Table 1.1. Table 1.1 Site contacts Title Company Name Contact No General Manager Operations BCPL Ken McLaren Manager Mining BCPL Lloyd Hardy Environment Superintendent BCPL Chase Dingle Mining Contractor Downer EDI Mining Mike Williams Coal Haulage Contractor Lovton Coal Wade Tordoff Blasting Contractor Downer Blasting Services 24 Hour Community Response Line BCPL Boggabri TBA TBA BCPL Page 1

8 1.2 Aim of this Blast Management Plan The aim of the BLMP is to outline the processes for achieving the following objectives: To facilitate compliance with the Project Approval, Environment Protection Licence (EPL) 12407, Mining Leases CL 368, A355, A339 and all relevant environmental legislation, licences and permits. To ensure that works are managed to minimise adverse impacts from blasting on the community and the environment. To detail specific blasting management and mitigation measures for site personnel. To outline the mine s monitoring and reporting requirements related to blasting. To provide clear definition of the roles and responsibilities for blasting management that apply to all BCPL employees and contractors. 1.3 Elements covered by this Blast Management Plan This management plan applies to all employees and contractors at the Boggabri Coal Mine and covers all areas within the Project Boundary as defined in the Project Approval. A monitoring and locality plan showing the extent of these areas is provided in Appendix A. Blasting activity undertaken for construction will be managed under the Construction Environment Management Plan (CEMP). BCPL Page 2

9 2. Statutory requirements The key leases, licences and approvals under which BCPL operates are summarised in Table 2.1. Table 2.1 Summary of leases, licences and approvals Lease/licence/approval No. Granted Expires Approved under Mining Lease CL /11/ /11/ Mining Act 1992 Mining Lease A355 19/07/ /04/2013 Mining Act 1992 Mining Lease A339 11/04/ /04/ Mining Act 1992 Project Approval 09_ /07/ /12/2033 Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 EPL /12/2006 In force until surrendered Protection of the Environment Operations Act 1997 Further details of legislation and conditions in BCPL s leases, licences and approvals relevant to blast management are provided in Appendix B. The specific requirements of the BLMP, as detailed in Schedule 3, Condition 22 of the Project Approval, are listed in Table 2.2. Table 2.2 Requirements of the Blast Management Plan Requirements of Approval The Proponent shall prepare and implement a Blast Management Plan for the project to the satisfaction of the Director-General. This plan must: (a) be submitted to the Director-General for approval within 6 months from the date of project approval; (b) be prepared in consultation with the EPA and the CCC, and interested members of the local community potentially affected by blasting operations; (c) propose any alternative ground vibration limits for public infrastructure in the vicinity of the site; (d) describe the measures that would be implemented to ensure: best management practice is being employed; and compliance with the relevant conditions of this approval (e) include a road closure management plan for blasting with 500 metres of a public road, that has been prepared in consultation with Council; (f) include a specific blast fume management protocol to demonstrate how emissions will be minimised including risk management strategies if blast fumes are generated; (g) include a monitoring program for evaluating the performance of the project including: o o compliance with the applicable criteria; and minimising fume emissions from the site; and Comment This plan has been prepared in fulfilment of this requirement. The plan will be submitted within 6 months of the Project Approval. Appendix D Section 5.1 Whole plan Section 6.3 Section 6.2 Section 7 1 Renewal sought 2 Renewal sought BCPL Page 3

10 Requirements of Approval The Proponent shall prepare and implement a Blast Management Plan for the project to the satisfaction of the Director-General. This plan must: (h) include a Leard Forest Mining Precinct Blast Management Strategy that has been prepared in consultation with other mines within the Leard Forest Mining Precinct to minimise cumulative blasting impacts Comment This plan has been prepared in fulfilment of this requirement. Section 6.5 and Appendix E. Note: The Blast Management Strategy will be developed in stages and be subject to ongoing review dependent upon the determination of and commencement of other mining projects in the area. BCPL Page 4

11 3. Existing environment 3.1 Location of sensitive receptors The BCPL operates primarily within the Leard State Forest and adjoins rural and residential receptors on all sides. Closest properties to the south have either been purchased by BCPL to provide an environmental buffer around the mine, or are owned by Whitehaven Coal Mining Pty Ltd (Whitehaven Coal). Properties and residences owned by BCPL and Whitehaven Coal are not considered to be blast sensitive receivers and were not specifically assessed in the Environmental Assessment (EA). The acoustics assessment in the EA concluded that blasting associated with the Boggabri Coal Mine would produce ground vibration and overpressure levels below relevant amenity criteria at all privately owned residences surrounding the Boggabri Coal Mine. The locations of blast sensitive receptors relative to the Boggabri Coal Mine are shown in the figure provided in Appendix A of this management plan. 3.2 Public infrastructure All public infrastructure, with the exception of an unsealed section of Leard Forest Road, is located at least 2km from proposed blasting activities. Calculations undertaken in the EA to predict the likely impact of ground vibration on surrounding sensitive receptors indicated that ground vibration levels are likely to remain within the required criterion of 5 mm/s at distances of 1700m or greater. The criterion for ground vibration impacts to public infrastructure is currently set at 50 mm/s. On this basis, blasting activities are unlikely to cause detrimental impact to public infrastructure surrounding the mine. 3.3 Heritage All non-indigenous heritage items identified in the EA are located at least 2km from proposed blasting activities. On this basis it is unlikely that blasting impacts from ground vibration will cause damage to any non-indigenous heritage items. Aboriginal cultural heritage items identified in the EA are located within 2km of proposed blasting activities; however these items are limited to artefact scatters, isolated artefacts and scarred trees. It is unlikely that these items of Aboriginal cultural heritage will be subject to impacts from blasting activities. All measures related to the salvage and preservation of items of cultural significance in the vicinity of the Boggabri Coal Mine are outlined in the Boggabri Coal Cultural Heritage Management Plan. This management plan provides for the salvage and curation of artefacts, demarcation of heritage areas and ongoing monitoring of heritage items. It also outlines a process for the management of any heritage related incidents. No actions specific to the management of heritage impacts from blasting activities are detailed in this Blast Management Plan. BCPL Page 5

12 3.4 Neighbouring mining operations BCPL is located within an existing mining precinct centred within and around the Leard State Forest, hereafter referred to in this document as the Boggabri-Tarrawonga-Maules Creek Complex (BTM Complex). The BTM Complex includes the existing Tarrawonga Coal Mine to the south and Maules Creek Coal Mine to the northwest. Tarrawonga Coal Pty Limited (TCPL), a subsidiary of Whitehaven Coal, currently operates the Tarrawonga Coal Mine, which is an open cut mining operation located southeast of and adjacent to the BCPL. The mine has been in operation since June The Maules Creek Coal Mine (MCC), also owned by Whitehaven Coal, is currently in its construction phase following project approval under the EP&A Act. The process for managing the cumulative impacts of blasting from these mining operations is briefly described in Section 6.5. Further detail on the management of cumulative impacts is found in the BTM Complex Blast Management Strategy (Appendix E) Prevalent meteorological conditions Climate conditions in the region are influenced by latitude, the inland location of the mine and its proximity to the Nandewar Range (Hansen Baily, 2010). The region typically has long periods of low precipitation, often resulting in droughts. Summer months are typically hot and winter periods are short with frosts common. January is typically the hottest month, reaching an average maximum temperature of 34 o C. July is typically the coolest month, reaching an average maximum temperature of 16.9 o C. Temperature inversions are most common in winter months, forming in later afternoon and reaching maximum resistance at dawn. These conditions have the potential to propagate blasting noise and air blast emissions. Summer months have higher mean rainfall (~80 mm) compared to winter months (~50 mm). The mine typically receives wind from the south-east in summer and the north-west in winter. Autumn and spring months typically receive a combination of these wind conditions. Autumn is generally the windiest season. 3 Negotiations are underway with Tarrawonga Coal Mine for sharing of blast monitoring data, as discussed in the BTM Complex Blast Management Strategy. BCPL Page 6

13 4. Sources and types of blast impacts There are inherent risks associated with blasting that, if managed poorly, may result in reduced safety, environmental and operational performance. These hazards include, but are not limited to: excessive ground vibration overpressure exceedances flyrock exceeding blast exclusion zones fume events misfires. These hazards are discussed briefly in the following subsections. 4.1 Ground vibration When a confined explosive charge detonates, some of the energy is released as ground vibrations. The magnitude of ground vibrations depends on: the maximum instantaneous charge (MIC) of the blast the distance between the blast and the sensitive receiver the characteristics of the intervening material (rock, soils, geological structures, etc.) through which the ground vibration wave propagates. If not managed appropriately, ground vibration has the potential to cause damage to buildings and other infrastructure. Management measures for the control of ground vibration are detailed in Section Airblast overpressure Blasting generates airblast overpressure, a transient air pressure from the explosion that is greater than the surrounding atmospheric pressure. Airblast overpressure can be managed by ensuring that all or most of the explosion energy is consumed in fragmenting and displacing the overburden by the time the gases vent. Improper management of overpressure can result in noise exceedances. Management measures for the control of airblast overpressure are detailed in Section Fly rock Fly rock is any rock or stone that is propelled beyond defined blast limits by the force of the explosion. It can pose a serious safety hazard and cause damage to buildings and infrastructure if not managed appropriately. Management measures for the control of fly rock are detailed in Section 6.4. BCPL Page 7

14 4.4 Fume The use of ammonium nitrate based explosives under variable conditions can lead to unwanted explosive reactions and the generation of nitric oxide (NO) and nitrogen dioxide (NO 2 ). Nitric oxide is unstable in air and readily oxidises to nitrogen dioxide. Nitrogen dioxide is identifiable as an orange or brown cloud which can be harmful if inhaled. Blast fume is a result of an explosive not reacting completely with the detonation. There are a number of potential causes of blast fume including geological conditions, weather, blast design, explosive product selection, explosive quality, blast-hole contamination and bench preparation. Management measures for the control of blast fume are detailed in Section 6.2 and Appendix C. 4.5 Misfires Misfires refer to the complete or partial failure of a blasting charge to explode as planned. The explosives that remain after the blast is detonated may be triggered to explode by mechanical means during post-blasting excavation activities, potentially leading to serious incidents. Measures that will be implemented to prevent misfires are detailed in Section 6.4. BCPL Page 8

15 5. Blasting criteria 5.1 Blasting assessment criteria BCPL s blasting assessment criteria, as outlined in Schedule 3, Condition 15 of the Project Approval, are shown in Table 5.1. Table 5.1 Location Residence on privately owned land All public infrastructure Blasting criteria Air blast overpressure (db (Lin Peak)) Ground vibration (mm/s) % Allowable exceedance % of the total number of blasts over a period of 12 months - 50 or alternatively a specific limit determined to the satisfaction of the Director-General by the structural design methodology in AS or its latest version 0% The criteria listed in Table 5.1 do not apply if BCPL has a written agreement with the relevant owner or infrastructure provider/owner, and has advised the NSW Department of Planning and Infrastructure (DP&I) in writing of the terms of the agreement. The Project Approval requires BCPL to propose any alternative ground vibration limits for public infrastructure in the vicinity of the site. BCPL Page 9

16 6. Management measures 6.1 Approved hours Blasting will be undertaken within the hours specified in Table 6.1, as per the Project Approval. Table 6.1 Approved hours Activity Monday to Friday Saturdays Sundays and Public Holidays Blasting 9:00 am to 5:00 pm 9:00 am to 5:00 pm No time* Note: Blasting is limited to one blast per day and a maximum of four blasts per week *Note: Blasting on Sundays and public holidays may be permitted in extraordinary circumstances but only with the written approval of the Director-General. Additionally, the frequency of blasts will be limited to a maximum of: a) 1 blast a day; unless an additional blast is required following a blast misfire b) 4 blasts a week, averaged over a calendar year These frequencies do not apply to blasts that generate ground vibration of 0.5mm/s or less at any residence on privately-owned land, or to blasts required to ensure the safety of people working or visiting the operations. 6.2 Blast fume management protocol In accordance with Project Approval requirements, BCPL will implement a protocol for the management of blast fume caused by blasting activities. The Australian Explosives Industry and Safety Group (AEISG) Code of Good Practice: Prevention and Management of Blast Generated NOx Gases in Surface Blasting, Edition 2, August 2011 identifies potential causes and indicators of blast fume and outlines management strategies for ensuring each cause is mitigated appropriately. BCPL has used this code of good practice as a basis for developing a site specific blast fume management strategy. A copy of this protocol is provided in Appendix C. 6.3 Road closure management plan It is a requirement of the Project Approval that BCPL develop a road closure management plan for blasting within 500 m of a public road. There are currently no blasting activities proposed to be undertaken within 500 m of a public road, as such, no road closures will be required. Should blasting be proposed within 500 m of a public road, a Road Closure Management Plan will be developed in consultation with Narrabri Shire Council and submitted to the DP&I for approval. BCPL Page 10

17 6.4 Mitigation measures for blasting activities The blasting mitigation measures to be implemented for blasting within the Project Boundary are outlined in Table 6.2. All aspects of blast management will be undertaken in accordance with AS Storage and Use of Explosives, a copy of which will be retained by the blasting contractor and by BCPL. It is important to that BCPL is responsible for ensuring that the Drilling Subcontractor develops adequate and documented work instructions to ensure compliance with all relevant requirements provided in Table 6-2. The Drilling Subcontractor is also responsible for ensuring their staff (and relevant sub-contractors) are adequately competent in these work instructions. BCPL Page 11

18 Drilling Subcontractor Blasting Subcontractor Mining Contractor BCPL Table 6.2 Mitigation measures for blasting activities Activity Management mitigation measure Responsibility Notification providing verbal or written notification of individual blasts to any person who requests to be notified. Notification will generally consist of an or phone call 24 hours prior to the blast and/or on the day of the blast (if the blasting schedule changes) notifying the general public about proposed blasting dates and times via the blast notification sign at the entrance to the mine site notifying the general public about blasting activities by listing proposed blasting dates and times on the BCPL website ( Exclusion zones locating sentries along Leard Forest Road to ensure no members of the public are within 500m of the blast prior to firing Erecting and maintaining security fencing along Leard Forest Road to prevent public access to the mine and surrounds Due diligence ensuring all personnel undertaking drilling and blasting activities are suitably qualified and experienced for the task that they are undertaking Storage of explosives ensuring all equipment used in drilling and blasting activities is inspected and cleared by the Mining Contractor prior to use constructing and maintaining all explosive magazines in accordance with the Explosives Act 2003 appointing suitably qualified personnel to oversee the safe and secure storage, handling and record keeping of all explosives on site ensuring storage of explosives is managed in a way as to minimise the potential for fume generation from faulty explosive product, as outlined in the Blast Fume Management Protocol (Appendix C) ensuring all old or deteriorated explosives are disposed of in an approved manner BCPL Page 12

19 Drilling Subcontractor Blasting Subcontractor Mining Contractor BCPL Activity Management mitigation measure Responsibility Hazard minimisation ceasing all blasting operations in the event of a storm and directing all personnel and equipment to be withdrawn to a place of safety until the storm has passed ensuring all personnel are located an appropriate distance away from blasting activities to minimise the potential for contact with fly rock and blast fume (as detailed in the Blast Fume Management Protocol in Appendix C) maintaining a distance of at least 10 m between any energised electrical cable and a charged blasthole developing and implementing a system for the safe management of misfires during blasting activities. The system will be developed in accordance with AS and provide for the following: o o o o o o methods for locating misfires procedures for marking and identifying misfires procedures to establish and maintain an exclusion zone related to misfires the introduction, removal or control of potential detonation or ignition sources communication/notification of misfires to relevant personnel a procedure for the treatment of misfires preventing any flame or smoking material within 20 m of any explosive magazine, vehicle carrying explosives, loaded blast hole or explosive material developing a specific hot ground procedure in accordance with AS for blasting in coal seams liable to spontaneous combustion inspecting blast holes for hot ground (greater than 57C) and, if required, suspending loading operations and seeking guidance from the BCPL Mining Contractor on a proposed course of action Design ensuring the maximum weight of explosive detonated in a given delay period is limited to conservative and proven levels ensuring charges detonate in the correct sequence and with inter-row delays that provide good progressive release of burden ensuring burden distance and stemming lengths are designed to minimise the potential for ground vibration, face blow-outs or venting of explosive force where practical, designing blasts so the blast face is orientated away from or at an oblique angle to nearby residences designing each blast to take into account: o hardness and nature of the strata BCPL Page 13

20 Drilling Subcontractor Blasting Subcontractor Mining Contractor BCPL Activity Management mitigation measure Responsibility o o blast geometry including available free faces and the proximity of surface structures and neighbours mining equipment to be used to load out materials o overpressure and vibration limits (as detailed in Section 5.1) providing the following details in each blast design: o o o o drill pattern diameter, angle and depth of each blasthole amount of explosive per blasthole firing sequence including all delays or firing times ensuring blast designs are provided to all relevant personnel when undertaking preparation for a blast (e.g. drillers, shotfirers, etc.) designing blasts of a size that will allow charging and firing as soon as operationally possible to reduce sleep times ensuring all fume risk management strategies outlined in the Blast Fume Management Protocol (Appendix C) are considered during the blast design process developing and implementing a procedure for managing blasts that are not fired on the same day as they are loaded Drilling ensuring blast holes are drilled at appropriate spacing in accordance with blast design ensuring blast hole cave-ins are identified and where necessary, in filled and re-drilled clearly demarcating and setting out drilling areas and drill holes drilling blast holes in the correct position, at the correct angle, diameter and depth, in accordance with blast designs developing and implementing a process for ensuring any variations to drilling designs are approved by the BCPL Mining Contractor and communicated to all relevant parties prior to the commencement of drilling developing and implementing a process for ensuring any abnormalities (e.g. cavities or changes in strata) encountered by the driller when drilling blast holes are recorded on the blast design plan and communicated to all relevant parties notifying the BCPL Mining Contractor immediately of any lost steels or snapped rods BCPL Page 14

21 Drilling Subcontractor Blasting Subcontractor Mining Contractor BCPL Activity Management mitigation measure Responsibility Preparation of charges checking exposed down hole lines for damage and omitting damaged sections from the firing circuit ensuring connections are made as close as practical to blast holes keeping connections between blast holes to a minimum without stretching connectors entering all Nonel tubes consistently ensuring only an industry recognised Nonel starter or electronic blasting box is used for initiating shots developing and implementing a procedure for the use of Nonel starters and electric blasting boxes to ensure blasts are fired in a safe, appropriate manner ensuring all starters and blasting boxes are inspected frequently and maintained in good working condition Loading utilising predictive and real-time weather monitoring network to guide blast loading activities. Loading of blasts will be postponed, or the type of explosive that is loaded into the shot will be varied, if significant periods or wet weather are forecast ensuring appropriate materials (e.g. 20 mm aggregates) are used in stemming to minimise potential for venting, blowouts and flyrock ensuring that stemming columns are such that they are not ejected for considerable distances in the atmosphere. Stemming column lengths must be such that their ejection velocities are low using Nonel delay type or electronic detonators to initiate charges. This will avoid the requirement for detonating cord downlines and minimise the potential for dust cloud formation developing a procedure and appointing a suitably qualified overseer to ensure all loading activities are undertaken in a safe, appropriate manner and in accordance with blast designs Ensuring all loading activities are undertaken to consider the potential for fume generation, as outlined in the Blast Fume Management Protocol (Appendix C) Firing utilising predictive and real-time weather monitoring data to guide the timing of firing blasts. Blasts will be postponed during wet weather, periods of low cloud cover and during temperature inversions. If blasts must be fired during these conditions, under extraordinary circumstances, then the BCPL Mining Contractor will seek the permission of the BCPL Environment Superintendent beforehand Ensuring blast clearance plans are reviewed and approved by the Mining Contractor prior to firing a blast BCPL Page 15

22 Drilling Subcontractor Blasting Subcontractor Mining Contractor BCPL Activity Management mitigation measure Responsibility Unplanned circumstances Identifying any changes to planned blasting activities, completing and setting out risk identification, risk assessment and control measures to be implemented prior to recommencing blasting activities. This includes consideration of the fume generation risks detailed in the Blast Fume Management Protocol (Appendix C). ensuring any changes to blasting activities that have the potential to cause fume or trigger an exceedence of the blasting assessment criteria (detailed in Section 5.1) are documented and communicated to BCPL for approval, prior to firing the blast gaining approval of the BCPL Environment Superintendent prior to blasting outside of the approved blasting hours (as outlined in Section 6.1) gaining approval of the NSW Environment Protection Agency (EPA) prior to blasting outside of the approved blasting hours (as outlined in Section 6.1) if required, reviewing and approving any changes to blasting activities that are outside of the Mining Contractor s normal operating protocols BCPL Page 16

23 6.5 Management of cumulative impacts BCPL s Mining Contractor will send notification of scheduled blasts, via to TCPL at least 24 hours prior to the scheduled time. If there is no conflict regarding scheduled blast times between the two mines, there will be no further correspondence. If BCPL s proposed blast time conflicts with TCPL s proposed blast time, then further discussion will be undertaken between the two mines and a schedule for blasting will be agreed upon. The schedule will be developed to ensure blasts are fired with a considerable distance between them to reduce any potential cumulative blast impacts. Once the blast schedule has been confirmed, BCPL s Mining Contractor will send notification to nominated BCPL representatives prior to the blast. On the day of the blast, BCPL will liaise with the Mining Contractor to ensure that monitoring equipment has been deployed at the appropriate locations. Personnel who will be notified by the BCPL Mining Contractor include: BCPL Environment Superintendent BCPL Mining Manager TCPL Environment Manager TCPL Mining Manager MCCM Environment Manager (when operations commence) MCCM Mining Manager (when operations commence). In addition to blast scheduling, BCPL, in consultation with other mines within the BTM Complex, has developed a strategy for the management of cumulative impacts from blasting activities. The strategy covers the following aspects of cumulative impacts management: A description of the monitoring network for all mines within the BTM Complex. A process for responding to BTM Complex blasting related incidents. A process for identifying the mine that was the likely cause of a given blast exceedence. Communication and reporting protocols between mining operations. A copy of the BTM Complex Blast Management Strategy will be kept and implemented by each mining operation s respective Environment Superintendent (or equivalent). BCPL Page 17

24 6.6 Roles and responsibilities Roles and responsibilities for the implementation of this management plan are outlined in Table 6.3. Table 6.3 Role Roles and responsibilities for implementation of this plan Responsibility BCPL Environment Superintendent BCPL General Manager Operations BCPL Mining Manager BCPL Mining Contractor BCPL Blasting Subcontractor employees BCPL Drilling Subcontractor employees TCPL Environment Manager ensuring all blast monitoring is undertaken according to the requirements of this management plan and relevant Australian standards maintaining blast awareness amongst mine personnel and contractors via inductions and tool box talks responding to community complaints (including the completion of appropriate corrective and preventive actions) liaising with regulatory authorities regarding blast management coordinating property inspections and repairs to landholder properties if required, in accordance with Section 9.3 of this management plan ensuring exceedances are reported to the relevant regulatory authority in accordance with Section 8.4 of this management plan maintaining the site s meteorological monitoring system reviewing and updating this management plan in accordance with Section 12 ensuring all employees and contractors are aware of their obligations under this management plan providing sufficient environmental resources to ensure the effective implementation of this management plan ensuring all mitigation measures outlined in this management plan are achieved on site negotiating with affected parties to resolve ongoing complaints ensuring employees and contractors are inducted in blast management liaising with the BCPL Mining Contractor with regard to blast scheduling to ensure blasts from Tarrawonga Coal Mine and Boggabri Coal Mine are fired at appropriately timed intervals to minimise cumulative impacts. implementing blast mitigation measures in accordance with Section 5 of this management plan developing and implementing specific procedures for the employees and subcontractors under their responsibility to facilitate compliance with this management plan liaising with the TCPL Mining Manager regarding blast scheduling to ensure blasts from TCPL and BCPL are fired at appropriately timed intervals to minimise cumulative impacts ensuring all employees and subcontractors under their control are aware of their obligations under this management plan providing relevant environmental data to assist BCPL with their reporting requirements, in accordance with Section 8 of this management plan inspect the area around the blast for fly-rock distribution undertaking all blast management activities in accordance with Section 6 of this management plan undertaking all drilling activities in accordance with Section 6 of this management plan liaising with the BCPL Mining Contractor with regard to blast scheduling to ensure blasts from TCPL and BCPL are fired at appropriately timed intervals to minimise cumulative impacts BCPL Page 18

25 Role Responsibility All BCPL employees and contractors undertaking activities, as required, in accordance with this management plan under instruction from their supervisor informing their direct supervisor of any blast related issues as that arise BCPL Page 19

26 7. Monitoring 7.1 Blast monitoring Parameters and frequency The parameters and frequency of monitoring, as required by the EPL, are listed in Table 7.1. Table 7.1 Monitoring parameters Parameter Units of measure Frequency Sampling method Overpressure db (Lin Peak) Every blast Type 1 noise blast logger Ground vibration mm/s Every blast Geophone logger or similar Fume AEISG Code of Good Practice Fume Rating System Every blast Personal observation and video recording Data obtained from blast monitors will be collected, analysed and reported in accordance with the requirements of the Project Approval and other relevant licences, approvals or standards. In addition to collecting blast data, as described in Table 7.1, the BCPL s Mining Contractor will also inspect the area around the blast for fly-rock distribution Locations In accordance with the requirements of the EPL, BCPL had monitors installed at two neighbouring residences, Bollol Creek Station and Greenhills, to record overpressure and ground vibration for each blast event. BCPL are in the process of changing the location of these blast monitors to Goonbri and Jeralong. Goonbri and Jeralong are 5.6 kms and 6.2 kms respectively from the open cut blasting operations. The locations of these blast monitoring sites are shown on the figure provided in Appendix A. Table 7.2 Monitoring Locations EPA Identification No. TBA 4 TBA Description of Location Goonbri Jeralong Monitoring methodology All blast monitoring at BCPL will be undertaken in accordance with the methodology outlined in AS Explosives Storage and use Part 2: Use of explosives (Standards Australia, 2006). 4 Negotiations are underway with landholders on possible locations. BCPL Page 20

27 7.2 Meteorological monitoring The Project Approval requires that a permanent meteorological monitoring (MET) station be installed and maintained to continuously measure and record wind speed, wind direction, temperature, solar radiation and rainfall at BCPL. A figure showing the location of the BCPL MET station is provided in Appendix A. The BCPL MET station will provide monitoring data to a website ( in real-time. Nominated employees and contractors will be provided with a login to the website, allowing them to investigate meteorological conditions and respond accordingly by modifying or delaying blasting activities to minimise fume, airblast overpressure and ground vibration impacts. The parameters recorded by the BCPL MET station and the method by which they will be sampled are outlined in Table 7-3. Table 7.3 Meteorological monitoring parameters Parameter Units Frequency Averaging Period Method* Temperature at 2 m Temperature at 10 m o C Continuous 15 minute AM-4 o C Continuous 15 minute AM-4 Wind direction at 10 m Sigma theta at 10 m o o Continuous 15 minute AM-2 and AM-4 Continuous 15 minute AM-2 and AM-4 Rainfall mm/hr Continuous 1 hour AM-4 Solar radiation W/m 2 Continuous 15 minute AM-4 Additional requirements: - Siting N/a N/a N/a AM-1 and AM-2 AM-2 and AM-4 - Measurement *Methods are detailed in the document Approved Methods for Sampling and Analysis of Air Pollutants in New South Wales (DEC, 2006). 7.3 Predictive meteorology system A predictive meteorology system will be implemented to guide the planning and firing of blasts. The proposed system will include a website that will make data immediately available for site, with half hourly forecasts up to 48 hours in advance. This system will download global meteorological data and forecasts on a daily basis. As with any predictive forecast, confidence reduces with longer predictions, however the half hourly 48-hour predictions will provide useful planning information for blasting operations. The forecasts for the next 24-hour and 12-hour periods provide more confidence in predictions for the day ahead and how weather may affect blast events. A range of user interfaces or simple reports or templates will be generated and used as part of the standard blasting procedure. BCPL Page 21

28 Blasting Subcontractor Mining Contractor BCPL 8. Reporting The blasting reporting requirements for blasting are outlined in the following subsections. A summary of the reporting requirements, including drivers, reporting periods, due dates, relevant reporting authorities and data inputs is provided in Table 8.1. Table 8.1 Blast reporting requirements Report Required by/for Reporting period Due date Submitted to Reporting data inputs Blast pack Annual Environmental Management Report Due diligence CL368, the Project Approval After every blast Within 24 hrs BCPL Environmental Coordinator 1 Jan 31 December Annual Return EPL 11 January 10 January Incident report EPL, the Project Approval Following an incident that causes or threatens to cause material harm to the environment Annually 30 March Annually 10 March Immediate verbal notification and a written report within 7 days NSW Department of Resources and Energy (DRE) EPA EPA, DP&I 8.1 Blast pack A blast pack will be maintained on file by the Mining Contractor for each blast that is fired. This pack will include: a blast clearance plan, which includes pre-blast weather checks, pre-blast and pre-shot fume risk assessments (undertaken in accordance with the Blast Fume Management Protocol) a blast shot report, which includes blast monitoring for overpressure, vibration and fume rating (as per the Blast Fume Management Protocol). The BCPL Environment Superintendent will be provided with the blast pack within 24 hours of a blast event. BCPL Page 22

29 8.2 Annual environmental management report The Annual Environmental Management Report (AEMR) summarises the environmental performance of the mine for the previous calendar year. In accordance with BCPL s mining leases (CL368, A355, and A339) and Schedule 5, condition 4 of the Project Approval, the report must include the following details relevant to blast management: A comprehensive review of the monitoring results and complaint records over the past year, which includes a comparison of these results against the: assessment criteria (refer to Section 5) monitoring results of previous years. Identification of any non-compliance over the last year, and a description of what actions were (or are being) taken to ensure compliance. Identification of any trends in the monitoring data over the life of the project. Identification of any discrepancies between the predicted and actual impacts of the project, and analysis of the potential cause of any significant discrepancies. A description of what measures will be implemented over the next year to improve blast management performance. BCPL will ensure that all requirements for reporting in the AEMR are met. 8.3 Annual return At the end of each reporting period, the EPA provides BCPL with an annual return form that must be completed and returned in hardcopy format. The annual return summarises BCPL s compliance with the EPL and includes: a statement of compliance with the blasting monitoring requirements listed in the EPL a summary of blasting monitoring and community complaints during the reporting period. BCPL will ensure that the annual return is completed in accordance with requirements and lodged by the due date. BCPL Page 23

30 8.4 Notification to regulatory authorities In accordance with the Project Approval and the EPL, BCPL will provide verbal and written notification of any incident that has caused, or threatens to cause, material harm to the environment. For an incident related to blasting, notification will be made to the EPA via the Environmental Incident Hotline ( ). Verbal notification will be provided as soon as practical after the incident. Written notification is required within 7 days of the date of the incident. The written notification report will detail: the location, date, time and nature of the exceedance the cause or likely cause the action taken to date and proposed measures to minimise potential non-compliances or exceedances with future blasts. Additionally, all contractors at BCPL are required to notify BCPL immediately, should they become aware of an environmental incident. Contractors are not to liaise directly with regulatory authorities in the event of an incident occurring within the BCPL Project Boundary, but are to refer the incident to the BCPL Environment Superintendent for management. 8.5 Notification to landholders and the community If monitoring indicates an exceedance of the blasting assessment criteria listed in Section 5, BCPL will notify in writing, any affected privately owned sensitive receptors. The written notification will be prepared by the BCPL Environment Superintendent and will include the following information: Details of the exceedance (i.e. date, time, location, db/mm/s levels). A copy of relevant blast monitoring data for the month leading up to and including the date of the exceedance. If ongoing monitoring indicates continued exceedances, the BCPL Environment Superintendent will continue to provide the affected sensitive receptor with monitoring data, until levels return to below the exceedance level. Details of exceedances will also be presented at Community Consultative Committee (CCC) meetings, as required. BCPL Page 24

31 9. Incident and complaint management 9.1 Incident management All incidents related to blasting at BCPL are to be managed in accordance with the BCPL Incident Management Procedure. This procedure outlines a standard process for reporting and responding environmental incidents for all BCPL employees and relevant contractors. 9.2 Complaint management All community complaints related to blasting from BCPL are to be managed in accordance with the BCPL Complaint Management Procedure. This procedure outlines a standard process for reporting and responding to community complaints for all BCPL employees and relevant contractors. 9.3 Property inspections In accordance with the Project Approval, if a written request from a landholder within 2 km of the open-cut pit at BCPL is received, then BCPL will commission a suitably qualified experienced and independent person to undertake an inspection of the property. The inspection will be undertaken to: Establish the baseline conditions of any buildings and/or structures on the land, or update the previous property inspection report. Identify any measures that should be implemented to minimise the potential blasting impacts of the project on these buildings and/or structures. Following the completion of inspections, the BCPL Environment Superintendent will provide a written inspection report to the landholder. An inspection will also be undertaken if the landholder claims that damage to buildings and/or structures has been caused by blasting activities from BCPL. BCPL will ensure an inspection is undertaken within 2 months of receiving the landholder request. If the inspection confirms that damage has been caused as a result of blasting activities, BCPL will repair the damage to the satisfaction of the landholder. If there is a dispute over the selection of the suitably qualified, experienced and independent person, or BCPL or the landowner disagree with the findings of the independent property investigation, the matter will be referred to the Director-General for resolution. The BCPL Environment Superintendent will confirm the timeframe for completion of the inspection and provision of the report with the landholder, prior to the inspection commencing. BCPL Page 25

32 10. Corrective and preventative actions Both Contractors and BCPL employees are to be involved in implementation of corrective and preventative actions associated with blasting activities Non-compliances and corrective actions Non-compliances will be detected through verification processes such as monitoring, inspections and audits. The process for managing non-compliance issues is summarised as follows: When a non-conformance issue is detected, corrective actions will be identified, communicated and agreed upon with BCPL and implemented. Relevant contractors will be notified immediately of any non-compliant activities that present a risk of causing material environmental harm. Corrective actions will include a review of any relevant plans and procedures following identification of any non-conformance. Where the non-conformance issue is associated with an inspection, audit or monitoring event, the actions will be linked to the record of that event. Non-compliance reports will be reviewed on a regular basis to ensure actions are progressed appropriately Preventive actions Preventive actions will be managed as follows: A preventive action may be identified without an environmental incident or nonconformance occurring. Corrective actions will be identified and agreed with BCPL before being implemented. Preventative actions may include physical works or changes to plans or procedures, training or other requirements. BCPL Page 26

33 11. Training and awareness 11.1 Site induction All personnel (including employees, contractors and subcontractors) mobilised during the construction operational and rehabilitation phases of the project will undertake a siteorientated induction program prior to commencing works. The induction will describe environmental aspects and impacts applicable to BCPL, including relevant legislation and associated legal responsibilities Toolbox talks Toolbox talks will be conducted regularly to maintain and improve employee and contractor awareness of blast management issues/requirements Task specific training BCPL employees and contractors undertaking tasks requiring specific knowledge or skills in blast management may be required to undergo task specific training. Specific requirements for BCPL employees and contractors (e.g. use of blast monitoring equipment) will be identified during BCPL s annual training needs analysis, and/or as required as changes to activities or personnel occur. The training needs analysis identifies the minimum required competencies, qualifications and skills commensurate with the individual s role responsibilities. Specific training that will be provided for the management of blast fume is outlined in the Blast Fume Management Protocol (Appendix C). Records of personnel training attendance, competencies, qualifications and skills will be maintained by BCPL and the Mining Contractor. BCPL Page 27

34 12. BLMP Review This BLMP will be reviewed at least every twelve months by the BCPL Environment Superintendent, to ensure compliance with all relevant leases, licences, approvals and any other legislative requirements. Review of this management plan may also be triggered by: changes to construction methodologies, mining operations, equipment or design following commencement of mining activities at the Maules Creek Coal Mine an exceedance of blasting objectives, as confirmed by monitoring repeated complaints related to blasting (which are neither frivolous nor vexatious in nature) a hazard, near miss, or incident outcomes of an internal or external audit changes to legislation modifications to the BCPL s Project Approval, EPL, mining leases or other relevant approvals changes to the organisational management structure at BCPL. BCPL Page 28

35 13. References Australian Explosives Industry and Safety Group Inc. (2011) Code of Practice: Prevention and Management of Blast Generated NOx Gases in Surface Blasting, Edition 1 Bridges Acoustics (2010) Acoustic Impact Assessment: Continuation of Boggabri Coal Mine Environmental Assessment, Paterson, NSW Department of Environment and Conservation (2006) Approved Methods for Sampling and Analysis of Air Pollutants in New South Wales. Hansen Bailey (2010) Continuation of Boggabri Coal Mine Environmental Assessment. Singleton, NSW Hansen Bailey (2011) Continuation of Boggabri Coal Mine Environmental Assessment Residual Matters Report. Singleton, NSW Standards Australia (2006) AS Explosives Storage and Use Part 2: Use of Explosives BCPL Page 29

36 Appendix A Blast monitoring and locality plan BCPL

37 BCPL

38 Appendix B Statutory requirements BCPL

39 State legislation The following New South Wales statutory requirements associated with the management of air quality and greenhouse gas emissions issues during the construction and operational phases of the Project have been considered during the development of this BMP. Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 In summary, the Environment Planning and Assessment Act 1979 facilitates mechanisms to encourage: the proper management, development and conservation of natural and artificial resources, including agricultural land, natural areas, forests, minerals, water, cities, towns and villages for the purpose of promoting the social and economic welfare of the community and a better environment the promotion and co-ordination of the orderly and economic use and development of land the protection of the environment, including the protection and conservation of native animals and plants, including threatened species, populations and ecological communities, and their habitats the sharing of the responsibility for environmental planning between the different levels of government in the State. Boggabri Coal has obtained Project Approval from the Department of Planning and Infrastructure (DP&I) Minister under 75J of the EP&A Act. The various Project Approval conditions relevant to blast management are detailed in Table B.1, together with a reference to where these conditions are addressed in this BMP. Table B.1 Project Conditions from Project Approval July 2012 Applicable Condition Requirement BLMP Reference Schedule 3 Condition 15 The Proponent shall ensure that blasting on the site does not cause exceedances of the criteria in Table 6. Section 5.1 Location Airblast overpressur e (db(lin Peak)) Ground Vibration (mm/s) Allowable exceedance Residence on privately owned land % % of the total number of blasts over a period of 12 months All public infrastructure - 50 or alternatively a specific limit determined to the satisfaction of the Director- General by the structural design methodology in BCPL

40 Applicable Condition Schedule 3 Condition 16 Schedule 3 Condition 17 Schedule 3 Condition 18 Schedule 3 Condition 19 Requirement AS , or its latest version. However, these criteria do not apply if the Proponent has a written agreement with the relevant owner or infrastructure provider/owner, and the Proponent has advised the Department in writing of the terms of this agreement. The Proponent shall only carry out blasting on the site between 9am and 5pm Monday to Saturday inclusive. No blasting is allowed on Sundays, public holidays, or at any other time without the written approval of the Director-General The Proponent may carry out a maximum of: a) 1 blast a day; unless an additional blast is required following a blast misfire; and b) 4 blasts a week, averaged over a calendar year; For the project This condition does not apply to blasts that generate ground vibration of 0.5mm/s or less at any residence on privately-owned land, or to blasts required to ensure the safety of the mine or its workers. Note: For the purposes of this condition, a blast refers to a single blast event which may involve a number of individual blasts fired in quick succession in a discrete area of the mine. If the Proponent requires a written request from the owner of any privately owned within 2kms of the approved open cut mining pit on site, for a property inspection to establish the baseline conditions of any buildings and/or structures on his/her land, or to have a previous property inspection report updated, then within 2 months of receiving this request the proponent shall: a) Commission a suitably qualified, experienced and independent person, whose appointment is acceptable to both parties to: Establish the baseline condition of any buildings and/or structures on the land, or update the previous property inspection report; and Identify any measures that should be implemented to minimise the potential blasting impacts of the project on these buildings and/or structures; and b) Give the landowner a copy of the new or updated property inspection report. If there is a dispute over the selection of the suitably qualified, experienced and independent person, or BCPL or landowner disagrees with the findings of the independent property investigation, either party may refer the matter to the Director-General for resolution. The timeframe for completion of the inspection and provision of the report is subject to suitable access arrangement being granted by the landowner. If the owner of any privately-owned land claims that the buildings and/or structures on his/her land have been damaged as a result of blasting on site, then within 2 months of receiving this claim in writing from the landowner the Proponent shall: a) Commission a suitably qualified, experienced and independent person, whose appointment is acceptable to both parties, to investigate the claim; and b) Give the landowner a copy of the property investigation report If this independent property investigation confirms the landowner s claim, and both parties agree with these findings, then the Proponent shall repair the damages to the satisfaction of the Director-General. If there is a dispute over the selection of the suitably qualified, experienced and independent person, Proponent or landowner BLMP Reference Section 6.1 Section 6.1 Section 9.3 Section 9.3 BCPL

41 Applicable Condition Schedule 3 Condition 20 Schedule 3 Condition 21 Schedule 3 Condition 22 Requirement disagrees with the findings of the independent property investigation, either party may refer the matter to the Director-General for resolution. The timeframe for completion of the inspection and provision of the report is subject to suitable access arrangement being granted by the landowner. During mining operations on site, the Proponent shall: a) Implement best management practice to: Protect the safety of people and livestock in the surrounding area; Protect public or private infrastructure/property in the surrounding area from any damage; Minimise the dust and fume emissions of any blasting; and Minimise blasting impacts on heritage items in the vicinity of the site; b) Co-ordinate the timing of blasting on site with the timing of blasting at other mines within the Leard Forest Mining Precinct to minimise the cumulative blasting impacts of the mines; and c) Operate a suitable system to enable the public to get up-to-date information on the proposed blasting schedule on site, to the satisfaction of the Director-General. The Proponent shall not undertake blasting on-site within 500 metres of: a) Any public road without the approval of Council; or b) Any land outside the site not owned by the Proponent, unless: The Proponent has a written agreement with the relevant landowner to allow blasting to be carried out closer to the land, and the Proponent has advised the Department in writing of the terms of this agreement, or The proponent has: Demonstrated to the satisfaction of the Director-General that the blasting can be carried out closer to the land without compromising the safety of the people or livestock on the land, or damaging the buildings and/or structure on the land; and Updated the Blast Management Plan to include the specific measure that would be implemented while blasting is being carried out within 500 metres of the land. The Proponent shall prepare and implement a Blast Management Plan for the project to the satisfaction of the Director-General. This plan must: (a) be submitted to the Director-General for approval within 6 months from the date of project approval; (b) be prepared in consultation with the EPA and the CCC, and interested members of the local community potentially affected by blasting operations; (c) propose any alternative ground vibration limits for public infrastructure in the vicinity of the site; (d) describe the measures that would be implemented to ensure: best management practice is being employed; and compliance with the relevant conditions of this approval. (e) include a road closure management plan for blasting with 500 metres of a public road, that has been prepared in consultation with Council; (f) include a specific blast fume management protocol to demonstrate how emissions will be minimised including risk management strategies if blast fumes are generated; (g) include a monitoring program for evaluating the performance of the project including: BLMP Reference Section 6 Section 6.3 Whole BLMP BCPL

42 Applicable Condition Requirement compliance with the applicable criteria; and minimising fume emissions from the site; and h) include a Leard Forest Mining Precinct Blast Management Strategy that has been prepared in consultation with other mines within the Leard Forest Mining Precinct to minimise cumulative blasting impacts. Note: The Leard Forest Mining Precinct Blast Management Strategy can be developed in stages and will need to be subject to ongoing review dependent upon the determination of and commencement of other mining projects in the area. BLMP Reference Mining Act 1992 The Mining Act 1992 provides mechanisms to encourage and facilitate the discovery and development of mineral resources in New South Wales. Boggabri Coal holds Coal Lease CL 368 under this Act. Operations must be undertaken in a manner that controls the impacts of the construction and operation of the BCP to those areas described in the EA. Table B.2 identifies applicable coal lease conditions and their corresponding requirements relevant to Boggabri Coal in relation to blast management. Table B.2 Applicable Condition Relevant Coal Lease Conditions Requirement BMP Reference 11 (b) ii & iii The registered holder shall submit for the Ministers approval an environmental management plan relating to the operation of the registered holder on the subject area. (b) the plan shall describe the methods to be used to protect the environment, including the methods used to (ii) minimise air, noise and water pollution; (iii) minimise erosion; Whole BLMP Protection of the Environment Operations Act 1997 The Protection of the Environment Operations Act 1997 (POEO Act) aims to protect, restore and enhance the quality of the environment in New South Wales by rationalising, simplifying and strengthening the regulatory framework for environment protection. This Act ensures that during construction and operations, the operation of any plant or equipment is undertaken in a manner that does not cause pollution from those premises and that operations are also carried out in a competent manner. Under the POEO Act, certain industrial activities (including the Project) require an EPL. Each EPL limits lawful pollution emissions to air (including noise and vibration), land and water to specific thresholds. Boggabri Coal holds Environment Protection License (EPL) No: under this Act. A copy is available at the following OEH Website: YSUID=1&LICID=12407 BCPL

43 A summary of EPL conditions relating to blasting by the BCPL is provided in Table B-3. Table B.3 Conditions from EPL Applicable Condition Requirement BMP Reference L4.1 The airblast overpressure level from blasting operations at the premises must not exceed 120dB (Lin Peak) at any time at any noise sensitive locations. Error margins associated with any monitoring equipment used to measure this are not to be taken into account in determining whether or not the limit has been exceeded. L4.2 The airblast overpressure level from blasting operations at the premises must not exceed 115dB (Lin Peak) at any noise sensitive locations for more than five per cent of the total number of blasts over each reporting period. Error margins associated with any monitoring equipment used to measure this are not to be taken into account in determining whether or not the limit has been exceeded. L4.3 Ground vibration peak particle velocity from the blasting operations at the premises must not exceed 10mm/sec at any time at any noise sensitive locations. Error margins associated with any monitoring equipment used to measure this are not to be taken into account in determining whether or not the limit has been exceeded. L4.4 Ground vibration peak particle velocity from the blasting operations at the premises must not exceed 5mm/sec at any noise sensitive locations for more than five per cent of the total number of blasts over each reporting period. Error margins associated with any monitoring equipment used to measure this are not to be taken into account in determining whether or not the limit has been exceeded. L4.5 Blasting operations at the premises may only take place between 9:00am-5:00pm Monday to Friday. Blasting is not permitted on public holidays. Blasting outside the hours specified above can only take place with the written approval of the EPA. L4.6 Blasting at the premises is limited to 1 blast on each day on which blasting is permitted. Note: Additional blasts are permitted where it is demonstrated to be necessary for safety reasons and the EPA and neighbours have been notified of the intended blast prior to the additional blast being fired. Whole BLMP Sections 6 and7 Sections 6 and7 Sections 6 and7 Section 6.1 Section 6.1 BCPL

44 Appendix C Blast Fume Management Protocol BCPL

45 Boggabri Coal Pty Ltd Blast Fume Management Protocol June 2013

46 Revision Control Chart Rev No Original Revision Date June 2013 Prepared by J McDonough Reviewed by B Bird Approved by J Green Signed Distribution Control Controlled copies will be distributed to and retained by relevant personnel including key Boggabri Coal Pty Limited (BCPL), agency and contractor representatives. Company BCPL Department of Trade and Investment, Regional Infrastructure and Services Division of Resources and Energy Department of Planning and Infrastructure Downer EDI Mining Position Environment Superintendent Regional Environmental Officer Senior Planner Project Manager Uncontrolled Copies Uncontrolled copies may be issued on the authority of the BCPL Environment Superintendent. Such copies will neither be numbered nor kept up to date.

47 Contents Page Number 1. Introduction Requirement for a Blast Fume Management Protocol Aim of this Blast Fume Management Protocol Scope of this Blast Fume Management Protocol Site contacts Description of blast fume Factors that contribute to blast fume generation 3 2. Blast fume management Risks, impacts and management measures Incident response Exposure prevention Following exposure Notification of fume incidents Post-fume incident investigation Roles and responsibilities Monitoring Fume rating system Training and awareness Document Review References 20 List of Tables Table 1.1 Site contacts 2 BCPL Page i

48 Glossary Glossary AEISG Australian Explosives Industry and Safety Group BCPL Boggabri Coal Pty Limited DP&I Department of Planning and Infrastructure DRE NSW Department of Resources and Energy EA Environmental Assessment EP&A Act Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 EPA Environment Protection Agency EPL Environment Protection License MET Meteorological monitoring station MIC Maximum instantaneous charge Mt Million tonnes Mtpa Million tonnes per annum NO Nitric oxide NO 2 Nitrogen dioxide NO x Oxides of nitrogen OEH NSW Office of Environment and Heritage POEO Act Protection of the Environment (Operations) Act, 1997 Project Approval Project Approval 09_0182 ROM Run of Mine BCPL Page ii

49 1. Introduction In 2009, BCPL lodged a major project application (the project) under the now-repealed Part 3A of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act, 1979 (EP&A Act). In the project application, Boggabri Coal sought to extend its mining operations for a further 21 years, and increase its production rate to 7 million tonnes per annum (Mtpa) of ROM coal from a total resource of 145 million tonnes (Mt). The project includes operation of existing ancillary equipment; construction of a new coal handling and preparation plant; a 17 km rail spur line; bridges over the Namoi River and Kamilaroi Highway; a rail load-out facility located at the mine; upgrade of the overburden and coal extraction haulage fleet (with an option for a dragline); upgrade of electricity transmission lines; and other ancillary infrastructure. The project application was determined by the NSW Planning Assessment Commission (PAC), under delegation by the Minister for Planning and Infrastructure. Project Approval 09_0182 (the Project Approval) was granted in July Schedule 3, Condition 22 of the Project Approval requires the preparation of a Blast Management Plan (BLMP). The BLMP has been prepared to fulfil these requirements. This Blast Fume Management Protocol (BFMP) is required as part of the BLMP. All staff and contractors working at Boggabri Coal Mine are required to operate in compliance with this BFMP. 1.1 Requirement for a Blast Fume Management Protocol As outlined in Schedule 3, Condition 22 of the Project Approval, BCPL are required to: prepare and implement a Blast Management Plan for the project to the satisfaction of the Director-General. The plan must: (f) include a specific blast fume management protocol to demonstrate how emissions will be minimised, including risk management strategies if blast fumes are generated. This document has been developed specifically to satisfy this requirement and is considered a subordinate document to the BCPL Blast Management Plan. 1.2 Aim of this Blast Fume Management Protocol The aim of this document is to provide those BCPL employees and contractors involved with blasting activities at the Boggabri Coal Mine with an outline of the processes that must be followed during the various stages of the blasting process to minimise the potential for blast fume and human health impacts in the event of a significant blast fume event. BCPL Page 1

50 1.3 Scope of this Blast Fume Management Protocol This document details how activities at the Boggabri Coal Mine will be managed to minimise any potential impacts caused by blast fume. It outlines the key contributing factors that can lead to fume generation and lists a series of management controls for implementation by BCPL employees and contractors. This document describes monitoring and recording that will be undertaken, incident response, notification to regulatory authorities and the provision of training and general awareness requirements. It is important to note all blasting related activities at Boggabri Coal Mine are undertaken by contactors. The management actions listed in this document will therefore be implemented by all relevant contractors through their own internal procedures. The use of internal contractor procedures does not negate the requirement for all contractors and suppliers associated with blasting activities to adhere to the commitments in this management protocol. 1.4 Site contacts The names and contact details of relevant BCPL employees and contractors are shown in Table 1.1. Table 1.1 Site contacts Title Company Name Contact No General Manager Operations BCPL Ken McLaren Manager Mining BCPL Lloyd Hardy Environment Superintendent BCPL Chase Dingle Mining Contractor Downer EDI Mining Mike Williams Blasting Contractor Downer Blasting Services 24 Hour Community Response Line BCPL Boggabri TBA TBA 1.5 Description of blast fume The use of ammonium nitrate based explosives under variable conditions can lead to unwanted explosive reactions and the generation of oxides of nitrogen (NOx), a combination of post blast gases which are predominantly nitrogen dioxide (NO 2 ), but may also include small amounts of nitrous oxide, nitric oxide (NO), carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide. The two main gases, NO and NO 2 are often found as by-products in the post-blast gases of ammonium nitrate-based explosives. Nitric oxide is unstable in air and readily oxidises to nitrogen dioxide. A cloud of NO 2 can range from yellow to dark red/purple in colour depending on the concentration and size of the gas cloud. These gases are harmful to humans if inhaled in large quantities. BCPL Page 2

51 1.6 Factors that contribute to blast fume generation In an open cut coal mining operation there are a number of potential causes of blast fume. Key contributing factors associated with the generation of blast fume at an open cut coal mine include, but are not limited to: unfavourable geological conditions blast design considerations poor explosive product selection poor explosive quality contamination of explosives in the blast hole poor bench preparation inappropriate storage of explosive products. Strategies for the management of each of these contributing factors are detailed in Section 2. BCPL Page 3

52 2. Blast fume management 2.1 Risks, impacts and management measures Relevant aspects of blasting activities and associated risks, impacts and management measures that will be implemented at Boggabri Coal Mine are outlined below in Table 2.1. Also detailed are the key parties responsible for implementation these management measures. BCPL Page 4

53 Table 2.1 Aspects, risks, impacts and management controls for fume mitigation Responsibility Aspect Risk Impacts/Indicators Management Measure(s) BCPL Mining Contractor Blasting Contractor Blast design Explosive product is not suitable for ground conditions (water, rock mass, strength etc.). Initiating explosives are not suitable for the explosive product Incomplete detonation of the explosives column Desensitisation of adjacent columns Selecting suitable explosives and accessories for the hole depth, diameter, moisture level, ground hardness and density. Products selected will be capable of mitigating against the presence of wet holes/extreme weather events (where appropriate). Selecting initiating devices that are suitable to initiate and maintain the detonation, compatible with the explosives and used in accordance with explosive manufacturers recommendations. Following blast design parameters, capturing and recording changes and storing all design records in Blast Packs. Lack of understanding of the possible causes, and prevention techniques of fume. Repeated significant fume events/poor blast performance. Ensuring all personnel involved in the design of blasts are appropriately qualified and experienced and have a comprehensive understanding around the factors that can lead to the generation of blast fume. Geology Lack of relief in weak/soft strata. Inadequate confinement. Fume issues from blasts in areas known to contain weak/soft strata Completing targeted geotechnical investigations in areas of geological variation or instability and modifying blast design and/or explosive product selection to suit geological conditions Dynamic water in holes Slumped blast holes (usually when using non water-resistant explosives). Minimising the sleep times of shots. Choosing explosive products according to manufacturers recommendations and amount of water in holes. BCPL Page 5

54 Responsibility Aspect Risk Impacts/Indicators Management Measure(s) BCPL Mining Contractor Blasting Contractor Weather Fume cloud drift Rainfall causes explosive to become wet in blast hole Fume cloud is generated and is carried by wind towards a public area or private residence. Water in blast hole limits detonation of explosive resulting in excessive fume. Assessing weather conditions prior to firing each shot. Shot s will not be fired during adverse weather conditions, unless for safety reasons, or to minimise further deterioration of the explosive product. Any shot that is fired during adverse weather conditions will be approved by the BCPL General Manager Operations. Relevant parameters for consideration prior to firing a shot will be: wind speed and direction the presence of a temperature inversion low continuous cloud cover. Using forecasts from the predictive weather system to guide the scheduling of blast preparation activities. Product selection Precursor delivered to mine site out of specification. Precursor degraded during transport and storage. Raw material changes. Inadequate mixing of raw materials. Poor blast performance e.g. incomplete detonation of explosive leading to fume generation Ensuring precursors have batch traceability and quality control documentation with tolerances for each batch held at manufacturing facilities. Quality checking all raw materials used in the precursors for compatibility. On bench quality control testing will carried out for every load of product and recorded on load sheets (which are stored in blast packs). BCPL Page 6

55 Responsibility Aspect Risk Impacts/Indicators Management Measure(s) BCPL Mining Contractor Blasting Contractor Product past used by date. Failure to conduct quality tests. Chemical formulation of the mixed explosives and/or precursors unknowingly inherently designed to generate fume. Formulation of explosives mixture and/or precursor insufficiently resistant to conditions it is used in. Calibrating explosives transportation trucks on a monthly basis. No bulk, packaged or initiation explosives shall be used at the mine unless the vendor has been approved by site management and has supplied the relevant material safety data sheets and technical data sheet documents. Copies of all relevant documents will be retained on site for reference. Where a product change is suggested by the Blasting Contractor, approval will be sought from BCPL in consultation with the Mining Contractor to ensure the proposed change does not increase the potential for fume generation. Storage Fines in Ammonium Nitrate (AN) prill and crystallisation of emulsion due to temperature cycling. Poor diesel absorption by AN prill. Impacts to product densities and stability. Storing AN prill under cover, out of direct sunlight, in a wellventilated area and in accordance with recommended storage times on product technical data sheets. Where it is not practical to store AN prill under cover, a stock rotation standard will apply. BCPL Page 7

56 Responsibility Aspect Risk Impacts/Indicators Management Measure(s) BCPL Mining Contractor Blasting Contractor On bench practices Inadequate mixing of raw materials (i.e. under fuelling). Loading not carried out in accordance with blast design. Changes to the conditions of the shot during loading (i.e. rainfall on a sleeping shot). Blast deterioration between drilling and loading. Incomplete detonation of the explosive column. Oxygen imbalance. Regularly calibrating metering systems, undertaking density and visual checks during mixing of raw materials. Minimising the time between drilling and loading. Recording bench conditions and variations to blast design and communicating to all affected parties. Information that will be recorded includes: Incorrectly drilled holes Missing holes Collapsed/slumping holes On-bench water is not managed properly. Stemming does not provide adequate confinement. Explosives column contamination during loading. Moisture in clay. Amount of product loaded Density of product Presence of water (surface and sub-surface) Depth of holes. Ensuring all personnel involved in on bench activities are appropriately qualified and experienced and have a comprehensive understanding around the factors that can lead to the generation of blast fume. Blasting personnel not consistent in defining dry and wet bench conditions. Explosive product seeping into cracks. BCPL Page 8

57 Responsibility Aspect Risk Impacts/Indicators Management Measure(s) BCPL Mining Contractor Blasting Contractor Dynamic water in holes. Primer has insufficient strength to initiate explosive column. BCPL Page 9

58 Responsibility Aspect Risk Impacts/Indicators Management Measure(s) BCPL Mining Contractor Blasting Contractor Public exclusion Public access to potentially fumy area following a blast Ingestion of NO x gases from contact with blast fume cloud. Development and implementation of a detailed road closure management plan in consultation with Narrabri Shire Council in the event that blasting is proposed within 500m of a public road (namely Leard Forest Road). No blasting will be undertaken within 500m of a public road unless a road closure management plan has been developed and approved. Timing Firing a blast outside of approved hours or frequency. Impacts to public amenity. Blasting will only be undertaken between the hours of 9:00am 5:00pm Monday to Saturday. The frequency of blasts will also be limited to a maximum of 1 blast per day and 4 blasts per week (averaged over a calendar year). BCPL Page 10

59 2.2 Incident response All incidents related to blasting at BCPL are to be managed in accordance with the BCPL Incident Management Procedure. This procedure outlines a standard process for reporting and responding environmental incidents for all BCPL employees and relevant contractors. It is unlikely that exposure to blast fume in a well-ventilated environment will cause impacts to human health, however NOx gases are still considered a potential threat and will be managed accordingly. Generally NOx plumes generated during blasting will dissipate to background levels in a relatively short time. Dissipation is highly dependent on local atmospheric conditions Exposure prevention In cases where a NOx plume does not dissipate and has the potential to result in human exposure, the following actions will be taken: No personnel will be permitted to enter the plume. Personnel will be instructed to move away from the path of the plume. If indoors, personnel will be instructed close all windows and doors and stay inside. If in a vehicle, personnel will stay inside and use recirculated air conditioning if possible Following exposure If a person has been exposed to NOx gases, medical attention will be provided as soon as it is safe to do so (i.e. once the fume cloud has cleared). The possibility of delayed and lifethreatening pulmonary oedema dictates that: Any person exposed to a visible plume of NOx, and/or any person experiencing sudden acute effects of coughing, shortness of breath or irritation of the mucous membranes of the eyes, nose or throat following post-blast NOx events will be examined by a medical practitioner without delay, even if no NOx smell was noticed or symptoms are mild. The treating medical practitioner will be informed of the potential NOx exposure. In accordance with the requirements of the AEISG Code of Good Practice, the following information will be provided to the medical practitioner: The patient may have been exposed to NOx, a gas produced after the use of explosives. NOx consists of multiple combinations of nitrogen and oxygen (N 2 O, NO, NO 2, N 2 O 4, N 2 O 3, N 2 O 5 ). Nitrogen dioxide (NO 2 ) is the principle hazardous nitrous fume. NOx irritates the eyes and mucous membranes primarily by dissolving on contact with moisture and forming a mixture of nitric acid and nitrous acids. Inhalation results in both respiratory tract irritation and pulmonary oedema. High level exposure can cause methhaemoglobinaemia. Some people, particularly asthmatics, can experience significant broncospasm at very low concentrations. The following effects may be encountered after NOx exposure: Page 11

60 Acute: Cough Shortness of breath Irritations of the mucous membranes of the eyes, nose and throat. Short term: Pulmonary oedema, which may be delayed for up to 4-12 hours. Medium term: R.A.D.S. (Reactive Airways Dysfunction Syndrome) In rare cases, bronchiolitis obliterans, which may take from 2-6 weeks to appear. Long term: Chronic respiratory insufficiency High level exposure particularly associated with methhaemoglobinaemia can cause chest pain, cyanosis, and shortness of breath, tachapnea, and tachycardia. Deaths have been reported after exposure and are usually delayed. Even non-irritant concentrations of NOx may cause pulmonary oedema. Symptoms of pulmonary oedema often don t become manifest until a few hours after exposure and are aggravated by physical effort. The patient will be advised to rest and if any respiratory symptoms were present, will have been administered oxygen. The patient will need to be treated symptomatically but as a base line it is suggested that the following investigations are required: Spirometry Chest x-ray Methhaemoglobin estimation. Because of the risk of delayed onset pulmonary oedema, it is recommended that as a precaution, the patient be observed for up to 12 hours. As no specific antidote for NOx exists, symptoms will have to be treated on their merits. Page 12

61 2.2.3 Notification of fume incidents In accordance with the Project Approval and the EPL, BCPL will provide verbal and written notification of any incident that has caused, or threatens to cause, material harm to the environment. In the event that a blast produces fume that (a) rates 3 at its highest extent and leaves site, or (b) any blast that rates 4 or 5, the BCPL Environment Superintendent will provide immediate notification to the DP&I s regional office in Tamworth, NSW (ph: ) and to the EPA via the Environmental Incident Hotline ( ). Written notification will be provided to the EPA and DP&I within 7 days of the date of the incident. The written notification report will detail: the location, date, time and nature of the incident; the cause or likely cause; the action taken to date and proposed measures to minimise the potential for fume incidents with future blasts Additionally, all contractors at BCPL are required to notify BCPL immediately, should they become aware of an environmental incident. Contractors are not to liaise directly with regulatory authorities in the event of an incident occurring within the BCPL Project Boundary, but are to refer the incident to the BCPL Environment Superintendent for management Post-fume incident investigation Should blast fume be generated from a blast, the fault tree shown in Figure 1 below will be used during the subsequent Incident Cause Analysis Method (ICAM) incident investigation to identify which of the fundamental causes was the significant contributor to the generation of NOx. Once the likely causes have been identified appropriate action plans will then be put in place to mitigate and reduce the generation of fume from future blasts under similar circumstances. The fault tree will also be used to educate relevant personnel to ensure appropriate steps are taken in the design, loading and firing of the blast to minimise the likelihood of generating fume from the blast. Page 13

62 Figure 1: Blast Fume Event Tree (Source: AEISG, 2011) Page 14

63 2.3 Roles and responsibilities Roles and responsibilities for the implementation of this management protocol are detailed below in Table 2.2. Table 2.2 Role Roles and responsibilities for implementation of this protocol Responsibility BCPL Environment Superintendent BCPL General Manager Operations BCPL Mining Contractor BCPL Blasting Subcontractor employees liaising with regulatory authorities regarding notification of blast fume incidents maintaining the site s meteorological monitoring system reviewing and updating this management protocol ensuring all employees and contractors are aware of their obligations under this management protocol ensuring all mitigation measures outlined in this management protocol are achieved on site liaising with regulatory authorities and approving blasting activities outside of normal hours, or during adverse weather conditions implementing fume mitigation measures in accordance with Section 2 of this management protocol ensuring all employees and subcontractors under their responsibility are aware of their obligations under this management protocol providing relevant environmental data to assist BCPL with their reporting requirements, in accordance with Section 5 of this management protocol developing and implementing internal procedures to facilitate compliance with this management protocol undertaking all blast management activities in accordance with Section 6 of this management plan developing and implementing internal blasting procedures to facilitate compliance with this management protocol Page 15

64 3. Monitoring All blasts will be rated for fume in accordance with the fume rating system described below in Section 3.1. Fume ratings will be recorded in Blast Packs by the Blasting Contractor, which will be provided to BCPL management following every blast. A video record of every blast fired will also be maintained on site. All records will be kept on site for a minimum of two years. 3.1 Fume rating system BCPL has adopted the fume rating system detailed in the Code of Good Practice: Prevention and Management of Blast Generated NOx Gases in Surface Blasting, Edition 2, (AEISG, August 2011). Each blast will be rated according to the appearance and extent of the fume cloud that is produced. Assessing the amount of NOx gases produced from a blast will depend on the distance the observer is from the blast and the prevailing weather conditions. The rating scale will range from 0 5 and will be based on the colour and density of the fume cloud. The extent of the NOx gases will also be assessed and will be done on a simple scale from A to C where: A = Localised (i.e. NOx gases localised across only a few blast holes) B = Medium (i.e. NOx gases from up to 50% of blast holes in the shot) C = Extensive (i.e. extenstive generation of NOx gases across the whole blast). The AEISG adopted fume rating system is shown in Figure 2. Page 16

65 Figure 2 Fume Cloud Appearance and Rating (Source: AEISG, 2011) Page 17

66 4. Training and awareness All BCPL employees and contractors will complete general blast fume awareness training in their site familiarisation induction. Additional education and awareness programs will be provided for relevant personnel consistent with their roles and responsibilities as detailed in relevant contractor explosives and shotfiring management documents. Training on the management actions outlined in this document will be provided by the BCPL Environment Superintendent. It will typically cover the following aspects associated with blast fume management: The identification and rating of post-blast NOx gases. The potential health impacts of NOx gases. Potential causes of blast fume. Fume mitigating actions as detailed in this document. Site specific blasting operation procedures (provided by relevant contractors). Reporting procedures in the event of a post-blast fume event. Incident and emergency response procedures for blast fume management. Page 18

67 5. Document Review This blast fume management protocol will be reviewed at least every twelve months by the BCPL Environment Superintendent. Review of this management plan may also be triggered by: changes to legislation, approval conditions, mining operations, equipment or design repeated complaints related to blast fume (which are neither frivolous nor vexatious in nature) a fume hazard, near miss, or incident outcomes of an internal or external audit changes to legislation modifications to the BCPL s Project Approval or EPL changes to the organisational management structure at BCPL a change to the Mining Contractor or Drill and Blast Contractor at Boggabri Coal Mine. Page 19

68 6. References Australian Explosives Industry and Safety Group Inc. (August, 2011) Code of Good Practice: Prevention and Management of Blast Generated NOx Gases in Surface Blasting, Edition 2 Standards Australia (2006) AS Explosives Storage and Use Part 2: Use of Explosives. Page 20

69 Appendix D Record of stakeholder consultation BCPL

70 Stakeholder Date Consultation Tarrawonga Coal Mine Various Consultation with Tarrawonga Coal Mine has been undertaken regularly as part of the BTM Complex meetings. Maules Creek Coal Various Consultation with Maules Creek Coal has been undertaken regularly as part of the BTM Complex meetings. Boggabri Coal Mine Community Consultation Committee 30 April 2013 A summary of the Blast Management Plan was presented to the CCC. Representatives of the CCC were invited to review the document in full and provide further feedback if desired. No additional comments have been received to date. EPA 7 June 2013 A copy of the BLMP has been submitted to the EPA for comment. A reply was received on 18 June 2013 stating that the Environment Protection Authority (EPA) encourages the development of such plans to ensure that proponents have determined how they will meet their statutory obligations and designated environmental objectives. However, we do not approve or endorse these documents as our role is to set environmental objectives for environmental/ conservation management, not to be directly involved in the development of strategies to achieve those objectives. This should meet the Project Approval consent requirements requiring consultation with the EPA. BCPL

71 Appendix E BTM Complex Blast Management Strategy BCPL

72 Blast Management Strategy June 2013 Idemitsu Australia Resources Boggabri Coal Pty Ltd Whitehaven Coal Pty Ltd Tarrawonga Coal Pty Ltd, Maules Creek Coal Mine BTM COMPLEX Blast Management Strategy i

73 DOCUMENT CONTROL Version Date Prepared by Reviewed by Approved by 01 January 2013 J McDonough / B Dillon B Bird J Green 02 June 2013 B Bird J Green J Green Distribution Control Controlled copies will be distributed to and retained by relevant personnel including key Boggabri Coal Pty Limited (BCPL), Boggabri Coal Expansion Project (BCEP), Whitehaven Coal, agency and Contractor representatives. Company BCPL BCEP Whitehaven Coal (Tarrawonga) Whitehaven Coal (Maules Creek) Department of Planning and Infrastructure (DP&I) Contractors Position Environment Superintendent Environment Representative Group Environmental Manager Environmental Manager Planning Officer Project Manager Uncontrolled Copies Uncontrolled copies may be issued on the authority of the BTM environment representatives as listed in the table are. Such copies will neither be numbered nor kept up to date. BTM COMPLEX Blast Management Strategy ii

74 Contents Page Number 1. Introduction Background and purpose Document structure Scope 4 2. The BTM Complex Boggabri Coal Mine Maules Creek Coal Mine Tarrawonga Coal Mine 6 3. Regional strategies Blasting criteria Boggabri Coal Mine Maules Creek Coal Tarrawonga Coal Mine BTM Complex 9 5. Blast monitoring Existing monitoring network Predictive forecast meteorology Cumulative blast management Mitigation of cumulative blast impacts Communication Blasting related incidents Reporting Corrective and preventative actions Blasting criteria exceedance Unpredicted contingency Document control Review and revision References Tables Table 1.1 Management and ownership of BTM Complex mines 1 Table 1.2 Approval requirements for cumulative blasting impact management 2 Table 4.1 Boggabri Coal Mine blasting assessment criteria 8 Table 4.2 Maules Creek Coal blasting assessment criteria 8 Table 4.3 Tarrawonga Coal Mine blasting assessment criteria 9 Table 4.4 BTM Complex blasting assessment criteria 9 Figures Figure 1.1 Location of the BTM Complex mines 3 BTM COMPLEX Blast Management Strategy iii

75 Glossary Glossary AEMR BCEP BCM BCPL BLMP BLMS BTM Complex CCC CL DP&I EA Annual Environmental Management Report Boggabri Coal Expansion Project Boggabri Coal Mine Boggabri Coal Pty Limited Blast Management Plan Blast Management Strategy Boggabri-Tarrawonga-Maules Creek Complex Community Consultative Committee Coal Lease NSW Department of Planning and Infrastructure Environmental Assessment EP&A Act Environmental Planning and Assessment Act, 1979 GHG IAR MCC Mtpa OEH PAC ROM TCM Greenhouse Gas Idemitsu Australia Resources Pty Limited Maules Creek Coal Project Million Tonnes Per Annum NSW Office of Environment and Heritage NSW Planning Assessment Commission Run of Mine Tarrawonga Coal Mine BTM COMPLEX Blast Management Strategy iv

76 1. Introduction 1.1 Background and purpose The purpose of this cumulative Blast Management Strategy (BLMS) is to document the approach that will be taken by mines within the Boggabri-Tarrawonga-Maules Creek Complex (BTM Complex) 1 to monitor and collectively manage cumulative blasting impacts. This strategy details the relevant cumulative blasting impact assessment criteria for each mine and outlines the cumulative blast management protocols that will be implemented within the BTM Complex. The BTM Complex is an existing mining precinct centred within and around the Leard State Forest, approximately 15 km northeast of Boggabri in the Narrabri Shire local government area. The BTM Complex includes the existing Tarrawonga Coal Mine (TCM) in the south, the Boggabri Coal Mine (BCM) to the north and the proposed Maules Creek Coal Mine (MCC) to the northwest. The extent of the EA boundaries for each of the mines that comprise the BTM Complex together with the locations of nearby residences are presented in Figure 1.1. BCM is managed by Boggabri Coal Pty Limited (BCPL), a wholly owned subsidiary of Idemitsu Australia Resources Pty Limited (IAR). MCC is managed under a joint venture between Whitehaven Coal Limited (75%), ITOCHU Australia Limited (15%) and J-Power Australia (10%). TCM is also a joint venture operation, with ownership shared between Whitehaven Coal Mining Limited (70%) and BCPL (30%). A summary of the ownership details for mines within the BTM Complex is provided below in Table 1.1. Table 1.1 Management and ownership of BTM Complex mines Mine Management Ownership Share Boggabri Coal Mine Boggabri Coal Pty Limited Idemitsu Australia Resources 100% Maules Creek Coal Mine Maules Creek Coal Joint Venture Aston Coal 2 Pty Limited (owned 100% by Whitehaven Coal Limited) 75% Itochu Coal Resources Australia Maules Creek Pty Ltd (ICRA MC) 15% Tarrawonga Coal Mine Tarrawonga Coal Pty Limited (TCPL) - Tarrawonga Joint Venture J-Power Australia (J-Power) 10% Whitehaven Coal Mining Limited 70% Boggabri Coal Pty Limited 30% Project applications for the continued operation of BCM (application number 09_0182) and the development of the MCC (application number 10_0138) were determined by the NSW Planning Assessment Commission (PAC) in July and October 2012 respectively, under delegation by the NSW Minister for Planning and Infrastructure. Subsequent to this, the Commonwealth Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities (SEWPaC) granted conditional approval for both the BCM Extension (EPBC 2009/5256) and the MCC Project (EPBC 2010/5566) on 11 February Given the level of public interest in these projects and the potential for cumulative impacts, approvals were granted subject to stringent conditions related to the management of cumulative impacts. 1 In previous environmental assessments and approval documents this group of mines has been referred to as the Leard Forest Mining Precinct. For the purposes of this strategy and all other relevant cumulative impact management documents, all references to the Leard Forest Mining Precinct have been replaced with the term BTM Complex. BTM COMPLEX Blast Management Strategy 1

77 The TCM application for continuation of mining was approved on 22 January 2013, with similar cumulative impact management conditions to those detailed in the BCM and MCC. Approval conditions require the preparation of a suite of regional strategies for environmental management, developed in partnership by all three mines of the BTM Complex. This BMS has been developed to serve as the regional strategy for blast management within the BTM Complex, in accordance with each project s approval requirements. Approval conditions relevant to the management of cumulative blast impacts within the BTM Complex are detailed in Table 1.2. Table 1.2 Approval requirements for cumulative blasting impact management Project/ Approval Boggabri Coal Mine Project Approval 09_0182 Condition Schedule 3, Condition 20 Details During mining operations on site, the Proponent shall (b) co-ordinate the timing of blasting on site with the timing of blasting at other mines within the Leard Forest Mining Precinct to minimise the cumulative blasting impacts of the mines; and Maules Creek Coal Mine Project Approval 10_0138 Schedule 3, Condition 22 Schedule 3, Condition 23 The Proponent shall prepare and implement a Blast Management Plan for the project to the satisfaction of the Director-General. The plan must (h) include a Leard Forest Mining Precinct Blast Management Strategy that has been prepared in consultation with other mines within the Leard Forest Mining Precinct to minimise cumulative blasting impacts. Note: the Leard Forest Mining Precinct Blast Management Strategy can be developed in stages and will need to be subject to ongoing review dependent upon the determination of and commencement of other mining projects in the area. During mining operations on site, the Proponent shall (b) co-ordinate the timing of blasting on site with the timing of blasting at other mines within the Leard Forest Mining Precinct to minimise the cumulative blasting impacts of the mines; and Schedule 3, Condition 25 The Proponent shall prepare and implement a Blast Management Plan for the project to the satisfaction of the Director-General. The plan must (h) include a Leard Forest Mining Precinct Blast Management Strategy that has been prepared in consultation with other mines within the Leard Forest Mining Precinct to minimise cumulative blasting impacts of all mines within the precinct. Note: the Leard Forest Mining Precinct Blast Management Strategy can be developed in stages and will need to be subject to ongoing review dependent upon the determination of and commencement of other mining projects in the area. Tarrawonga Coal Mine The project application is yet to be determined. BTM COMPLEX Blast Management Strategy 2

78 Figure 1.1 Location of the BTM Complex mines BTM COMPLEX Blast Management Strategy 3

79 1.2 Document structure The structure of this report is as follows: Section 1 provides an introduction to the BLMS, including the background to the BLMS, and the scope of the BLMS. Section 2 provides an overview of the BTM Complex mines (BCPL, TCM, MCC). Section 3 outlines the requirements for regional strategies. Section 4 describes blast management criteria for each individual mine Section 5 describes existing monitoring networks and the use of predictive meteorological forecasting to guide blasting activities. Section 6 outlines strategies for cumulative impact management, communication, incident management and reporting. Section 7 discusses strategies for the management of corrective and preventative actions. Section 8 describes the document control process for this BLMS. Section 9 provides a list of references used in this document. 1.3 Scope This document is the overarching strategy for management of blasting within the BTM Complex. Individual mines will manage their ongoing operations and associated blast management impacts in accordance with their site specific BMPs. Statutory requirements relating to blasting will be provided in each individual site s management plan. It is envisaged that any extensions to mining operations in the BTM Complex will be incorporated into this strategy in the future. BTM COMPLEX Blast Management Strategy 4

80 2. The BTM Complex 2.1 Boggabri Coal Mine The Boggabri Coal Mine is an existing mine located within and adjoining the Leard State Forest, approximately 15 kilometres (km) northeast of the town of Boggabri in the Narrabri Shire local government area (the Project). The open cut mine is operated by BCPL, a subsidiary of IAR. The current operations include an open cut pit, infrastructure area, water management structures and a 17 km private haul road to the Boggabri rail coal loading terminal. The original development consent for Boggabri Coal Mine (DA36/88) allowed the mine to produce 5 million tonnes per annum (Mtpa) of run of mine (ROM) coal by open cut methods with mining operations undertaken 24 hours a day, seven days a week. However, a 2011 modification restricted the extraction rate to 3.5 Mtpa of ROM coal as part of a 2 year extension to mining operations. The most recent modification, approved in June 2012, allows for an increase in height of the overburden emplacement area by 55 m. This modification was submitted to allow for the continuation of operations until an earlier major project application was assessed. The earlier major project application was lodged under the nowrepealed Part 3A of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 (EP&A Act) and was approved on 18 July In the major project application, BCPL proposes to extend its mining operations for a further 21 years, and increase its production rate to 7 Mtpa of ROM coal from a total resource of 145 Mt. The Project includes operation of existing ancillary equipment; construction of a new coal handling and preparation plant; a 17 km rail spur line; bridges over the Namoi River and Kamilaroi Highway; a rail load-out facility located at the mine; upgrade of the overburden and coal extraction haulage fleet (with an option for a drag-line); upgrade of electricity transmission lines; and other ancillary infrastructure. 2.2 Maules Creek Coal Mine The approved Maules Creek Coal Mine is located directly to the northwest of Boggabri Coal Mine. There is an existing development consent covering coal mining within an area delineated as Coal Lease 375 (CL 375). This consent has been commenced, but no extraction of coal has occurred. Aston Resources Pty Limited, which was subsequently acquired by Whitehaven Coal, submitted a project application under Part 3A of the EP&A Act seeking a contemporary Project Approval for coal mining and ancillary activities within this area. The project application sought approval for extraction of up to 13 Mtpa of ROM coal for 21 years. Other key features of this Project include transportation of coal by rail to Newcastle; and development of site infrastructure including the CHPP and associated facilities; train loading facility; rail spur and loop; a mine access road; communications and power reticulation; explosives storage; and a water pipeline from the Namoi River. The Maules Creek Coal Project (MCC) application (number ) under the now-repealed Part 3A of the EP&A Act was granted approval by the Minister for Planning and Infrastructure in October Conditions of approval also include the preparation of a Leard Forest Mining Precinct Blast Management Strategy. BTM COMPLEX Blast Management Strategy 5

81 2.3 Tarrawonga Coal Mine The Tarrawonga Coal Mine is an existing coal mining operation with approval to extract 2 Mtpa of ROM coal until Tarrawonga Coal Pty Limited, a subsidiary of Whitehaven Coal, submitted a project application in July 2011 for an extension of open cut mining operations with an increased production rate to 3 Mtpa of ROM coal for a further 17 years from 2013 to Key features of the Project include construction of a services corridor, including haul road link; use of upgraded facilities at Boggabri Coal Mine, including the proposed rail loop and spur; construction of new mine infrastructure and service facilities; waste rock emplacement expansion; and realignment of a section of Goonbri Creek. This project application is currently being determined. BTM COMPLEX Blast Management Strategy 6

82 3. Regional strategies The conditions of approval for the Boggabri Coal Mine and Maules Creek Coal specifically require the three mines of the BTM Complex produce joint strategies for: noise management blast management air quality management water management regional biodiversity (developed over 3 stages) biodiversity offsets. Additionally, the conditions require cooperation and consultation between the mines with respect to: Aboriginal heritage conservation operational noise and air quality management, including online communications of onsite activities and monitoring; operating conditions and reactive dust management; and air quality and Greenhouse Gas (GHG) management transport, specifically options for transporting workers management of social impacts membership of Community Consultative Committees (CCC). This BLMS addresses the requirement for a BLMS over the BTM Complex area and outlines the process that will be followed to scope, select and deliver joint monitoring and data management for blasting. BTM COMPLEX Blast Management Strategy 7

83 4. Blasting criteria 4.1 Boggabri Coal Mine The relevant blasting criteria have been extracted from the most recent BCPL Project Approval, and are summarised in Table 4.1. Table 4.1 Boggabri Coal Mine blasting assessment criteria Location Airblast overpressure (db(lin Peak)) Ground vibration (mm/s) Allowable exceedance Residence on privately owned land % % of the total number of blasts over a period of 12 months All public infrastructure - 50 (or alternatively a specific limit determined to the satisfaction of the Director-General by the structural design methodology in AS , or its latest version) 0% The process for day to day management of compliance with respect to these conditions is outlined in the BCPL Blast Management Plan (BLMP). 4.2 Maules Creek Coal The relevant blasting criteria have been extracted from the most recent Maules Creek Project Approval (project application 10_0138) and are summarised in Table 4.2. Table 4.2 Maules Creek Coal blasting assessment criteria Location Airblast overpressure (db(lin Peak)) Ground vibration (mm/s) Allowable exceedance Residence on privately owned land % % of the total number of blasts over a period of 12 months All public infrastructure - 50 (or alternatively a specific limit determined to the satisfaction of the Director-General by the structural design methodology in AS , or its latest version) 0% The process for day to day management of compliance with respect to these conditions will be outlined in the MCC BLMP. BTM COMPLEX Blast Management Strategy 8

84 4.3 Tarrawonga Coal Mine Relevant blasting criteria have been extracted from the recommended conditions of approval for project application 11_0047 for the Tarrawonga Coal Mine, and are summarised in Table 4.3. Table 4.3 Tarrawonga Coal Mine blasting assessment criteria Location Airblast overpressure (db(lin Peak)) Ground vibration (mm/s) Allowable exceedance Residence on privately owned land % % of the total number of blasts over a period of 12 months All public infrastructure - 50 (or a limit determined by the structural design methodology in AS , or its latest version, to the satisfaction of the Director-General 0% 4.4 BTM Complex Table 4.4 summarises the current assessment criteria for the three mines of the BTM Complex. Table 4.4 BTM Complex blasting assessment criteria Criteria Boggabri Tarrawonga Maules Creek Blasting Hours 9AM 5PM 9AM 5PM 9AM 5PM Blasting Days Monday to Saturday inclusive, excluding public holidays. Blasting outside of these days require written approval of the Director-General Monday to Saturday inclusive, and no blasting is allowed on Sundays, public holidays or at any other time without the written approval of the Director-General Monday to Saturday, excluding Sundays and public holidays unless prior approval from Office of Environment and Heritage (OEH) is given. Blasting Frequency 1 blast per day, unless an additional blast is required following a blast misfire; and 4 blasts a week, averaged over a calendar year (i.e. maximum of 208 blasts per annum). 1 blast per day, unless an additional blast is required following a blast misfire. Up to an average of 4 blasts per week, or approximately 200 blasts per calendar year. The EA for Boggabri Coal Mine (for application 09_0182) also includes the following commitment: Boggabri Coal will manage its blasting practices such that the recommended DECCW guidelines, existing at the time of approval; will be met at all privately owned receivers. (Hansen Bailey, V.1, p. 86) The EA further states that: blast events will continue to be coordinated with the adjacent Tarrawonga Mine and any other future mining operations in the area to avoid any potential cumulative impacts (Hansen Bailey, V.1, p. 86). The assessment criteria for the three mines, as outlined in Table 4.4, have been considered in preparation of the BLMS. Day to day management of blasting activities for the mines is detailed in their respective BLMPs. BTM COMPLEX Blast Management Strategy 9

85 5. Blast monitoring 5.1 Existing monitoring network The mines of the BTM Complex already have comprehensive blast management systems in place. The existing blast monitoring network will continue to be used. The locations of monitors within the existing blast monitoring network are shown in Figure 1.1. It is expected that little change will be required to the existing blast monitoring network to continue to ensure compliance with respect to blasting in the BTM Complex. However, there will need to be additional cooperation between mines of the BTM Complex, to minimise the potential for cumulative impacts. Protocols described in this BLMS will be used with the existing monitoring programs to ensure that blasting schedules are coordinated to avoid cumulative impacts on sensitive receivers. 5.2 Predictive forecast meteorology It is proposed that more extensive changes will be made to the air quality networks within the BTM Complex in order to manage compliance. The changes, which are detailed in the BTM Complex Air Quality Strategy, include a proposed predictive forecast meteorology system, with half hourly forecasts up to 48 hours in advance. This system will download global meteorological data and forecasts on a daily basis that will be used to guide the planning of blasting activities. As with any predictive forecast, confidence reduces with longer predictions, however the half hourly 48- hour forecasts will provide useful information for guiding the drilling and loading of blasts at each mine within the BTM Complex. The forecasts for the next 24-hour and 12-hour periods will provide more confidence in predictions for the day ahead and how weather may affect the proposed schedule for firing a blast. Once the proposed meteorological system is configured and operating, the outcomes will be evaluated by a competent meteorologist or atmospheric science professional against actual meteorological data and the meteorological system will be validated and improved, where possible. BTM COMPLEX Blast Management Strategy 10

86 6. Cumulative blast management 6.1 Mitigation of cumulative blast impacts The key management measure for the mitigation of cumulative blast impacts will be scheduling of blasts to ensure each mine fires their blast at separate times. Processes to mitigate blasting impacts associated with operations will be addressed in each mines individual BLMPs. Each mine has or will develop a BLMP that outlines a consistent approach for the scheduling of blasts in consultation with other mines in the BTM Complex. At least 24 hours notice will be provided prior to a proposed blast. If there is no conflict regarding the scheduled blast times, there will be no further correspondence. If there are conflicting blast times between the mines, a revised schedule for firing the blasts will be agreed upon. The schedule will be developed to ensure blasts are fired with a considerable time gap between them to reduce any potential cumulative impacts. 6.2 Communication Regular meetings will be held by the BTM Complex to discuss monitoring results and future operational events. Meeting minutes will be documented and distributed to each site. When blasting criteria are identified as exceeded as a consequence of blasts from two or more mines, discussions will be held within the BTM Complex and the agencies and affected landholders (where an exceedance occurs on privately-owned land). This will include confirmation from the BTM Complex as to the blast time and identified time of exceedance from monitor reports to assist in identifying if the impact was due to more than one blast, or if it relates to single mines blasting activities. The mines of the BTM Complex will also, if required, share baseline property inspection reports that are completed at the request of neighbouring landholders, in accordance with each site s Project Approval. Process to identify main source of blasting impacts If there is uncertainty around the source of a blasting related incident (e.g. exceedance of assessment criteria or damage to a neighbouring building or other infrastructure), a meeting will be held by the BTM Complex representatives to review relevant data and investigate the cause of the incident. If the cause cannot be determined, then the BTM Complex will engage a suitably qualified expert to undertake an independent blast impact investigation. The outcomes of the investigation will help determine the responsibility of the mines for any corrective actions. 6.3 Blasting related incidents Blasting related incidents such as misfires or exceedances of assessment criteria will be reported and managed in accordance with each mines BLMP and incident management process. Incidents will be managed in accordance with the requirements of the Protection of the Environment Operations Act 1997, Coal Mine Health and Safety Act 2002 and Coal Mine Health and Safety Act Regulation BTM COMPLEX Blast Management Strategy 11

87 6.4 Reporting Management reports will be prepared regularly, noting performance against criteria. External reporting will include: individual Company websites Community Consultative Committees (CCCs) Annual Environmental Management Reports (AEMRs) annual returns exceedance reporting. BTM COMPLEX Blast Management Strategy 12

88 7. Corrective and preventative actions 7.1 Blasting criteria exceedance If the monitoring results of a blast identify an exceedance of the mines relevant criteria, written notification of the exceedance will be provided to the other mines within the BTM complex, in addition to any investigation undertaken according to the respective mine s BLMP. 7.2 Unpredicted contingency Unpredicted events, such as storms or earth tremors, will be identified and reported as impacting on vibration results on a case by case basis. BTM COMPLEX Blast Management Strategy 13

89 8. Document control The BLMS has been developed with the input of representatives of BCPL, TCM and MCC. 8.1 Review and revision The BLMS will be reviewed and revised at least every two years or on an as required basis to incorporate improvements identified by the BTM Complex or appropriate requirements of government agencies. It will be the collective responsibility of the BTM Complex to review the BLMS. BTM COMPLEX Blast Management Strategy 14

90 9. References Notice of Modification DA MOD 1 for the Tarrawonga Coal Mine. Notice of Modification DA 36/ MOD 2 for the Boggabri Coal Mine. Boggabri Coal Pty Limited, Boggabri Coal Mine Blast Management Plan (2012), Boggabri Coal Pty Limited, NSW Whitehaven Mining Pty Limited, Tarrawonga Mine Blast Management Plan (2012), Whitehaven Mining Pty Limited, NSW BTM COMPLEX Blast Management Strategy 15

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