EXECUTIVE
SUMMARY
The
proposed widening of Tolo Highway and Fanling Highway between Island House
Interchange and Fanling (the Project) is a Designated Project under the
Environmental Impact Assessment Ordinance (Cap. 499) (EIAO) and is governed by an Environmental Permit (EP-324/2008)(EP) issued by EPD
on 23 December 2008.
Subsequently, EPD issued a Variation of Environmental Permit (EP-324/2008/A)
(VEP) on 31 January 2012.
The
Project aims to widen Tolo Highway and Fanling Highway
to dual 4-lane carriageway in order to alleviate the current traffic congestion
problems and to cope with the increasing transport demands to and from the
urban areas and also cross boundary traffic.
The
construction works for this Project will be delivered in 2 stages i.e. Stage 1
(between Island House Interchange and Tai Hang) and Stage 2 (between Tai Hang
and Wo Hop Shek Interchange). The construction works of Stage 1 were commenced
on 23 November 2009 and will tentatively be completed in December 2013; while
construction programme of Stage 2 is currently under review. This report
focuses on Stage 1 of the Project only.
The
construction phase of Stage 1 under the EP and the Environmental Monitoring and
Audit (EM&A)
programme for Stage 1 of the Project commenced on 23 November 2009. The impact
environmental monitoring and audit includes air quality and noise monitoring.
This report documents the
findings of EM&A works conducted in the period between 1 and 31 January
2013. As informed by the Contract 1 Contractor (China
State Construction Engineering (Hong Kong) Ltd.), construction activities in the
reporting period were:-
-
Temporary shoring, sheetpiling and excavation;
-
Pile cap construction (Noise Barrier);
-
Installation of soil nails;
-
At-grade road construction;
-
Widening and demolition ofcentral dividers;
-
Retaining wall construction;
-
Bridge deck construction;
-
Noise barrier footing construction;
-
Noise barrier panels installation;
-
Asphalt laying;
-
Installation of Drainage Pipes;
-
Modification of Edge coping; and
-
Pre-bored socket H-pile.
The
construction works carried out by the Contract 2
Contractor (Gammon Construction Ltd.) in the reporting period were:-
-
Condition survey of existing structures;
-
Initial and record survey;
-
Survey Setting out works for slopes and structures;
-
Setting up the temporary traffic arrangement;
-
Excavation of trial trenches to locate existing utilities;
-
Construction of haul road;
-
Extension of box culvert and subway;
-
Structural works of bridges;
-
Construction of Pilecap / Spread footing of Noise Barrier / Semi
Noise Enclosure;
-
Slope works, including installation of soil nails;
-
NTHA Mitigation Works;
-
Retaining wall construction;
-
Noise barrier construction;
-
Modification / Demolition of existing bridge structures;
-
Entrusted watermains works; and
-
Sewer Installation.
Reporting Change
There was no reporting change
required in the reporting month.
Breaches of Action and Limit Levels for Air
Quality
No exceedance of Action and Limit Level was recorded for
1-hour and 24-hour TSP monitoring in the reporting month.
Breaches of Action and Limit Levels for Noise
No Action Level exceedances of construction noise
was recorded in the reporting month, since no noise
complaints related
to 0700 ¨C 1900 hours on normal weekdays was received and
followed by Environmental Team in the reporting month.
No Limit Level exceedance of construction noise was
recorded in the reporting month.
Complaint, Notification of Summons and
Successful Prosecution
There were two (2) follow-up complaints
(included two (2) noise related complaints) received on December 2012 and
followed up by Environmental Team in January 2013. Summary of investigation is
described in Section 4.6.4 ¨C 4.6.5.
There were three (3) complaints
(included one (1) air related complaint, one (1) noise related complaint and
one (1) water related complaint followed up by the Environmental Team in
January 2013. For the air related complaint, investigation was carried out and
the findings, proposed mitigation measures and follow-up site inspection were
submitted to all relevant parties. For the noise related complaint,
investigation was carried out and the findings were submitted to all relevant
parties. For the water related complaint, the complaint was still under
investigation in January 2013 and the investigation result will be reported in
next Monthly EM&A Report (February 2013). Summary of investigation is
described in Section 4.6.6 ¨C 4.6.8.
No notification of summons and
successful prosecution was received in the reporting month.
Future Key Issues
Key
issues to be considered in the coming month included:-
- Properly store
and label oils and chemicals on site;
- Chemical,
chemical waste and waste management;
- Collection of
construction waste should be carried out regularly;
- Site runoff should
be properly collected and treated prior to discharge;
- Properly
maintain all drainage facilities and wheel washing facilities on site;
- Exposed slopes
should be covered up properly if no temporary work will be conducted;
-
Suppress dust generated from excavation, breaking and
drilling activities, haul road traffic and grout mixing process;
-
Quieter powered mechanical equipment should be used;
-
Closely check and replace the sound insulation materials
wrapped at the concrete breaker tip regularly;
-
Better scheduling of construction works to minimize noise
nuisance; and
-
Tree protective measures for all retained trees should be
well maintained.
1
introduction
1.1 Background
1.1.1.
Tolo Highway and Fanling Highway are
expressways in the North East New Territories connecting Sha Tin, Tai Po and
Fanling. These highways form a vital part of the strategic Route 9, which links
other major strategic routes to Shenzhen. At present, this section of Route 9
is dual 3-lane carriageway. However, at several major interchanges along this
section of Route 9, the highway is only dual-2 lane. Severe congestion is a
frequent occurrence during peak periods, particularly in the Kowloon bound
direction.
1.1.2.
The objective of the Project ¡°Widening
of Tolo Highway / Fanling Highway between Island House Interchange and Fanling¡±
is to widen Tolo Highway and Fanling Highway to dual 4-lane carriageway in
order to alleviate the current traffic congestion problems and to cope with the
increasing transport demands to and from the urban areas and also cross
boundary traffic.
1.1.3.
The Project is a designated project and
is governed by an Environmental Permit (EP-324/2008)(EP) issued by EPD on
23 December 2008. Subsequently, EPD issued a Variation of Environmental Permit
(EP-324/2008/A) (VEP) on 31 January 2012.
1.1.4.
The scope of the Project comprises
mainly:-
|
(i)
|
Widening
of a 5.7 km section of Tolo Highway and 3.0 km section of Fanling Highway
between Island House Interchange and Wo Hop Shek Interchange from the
existing dual 3-lane to dual 4-lane, including construction of new vehicular
bridges;
|
|
(ii)
|
Widening
of interchange sections at Island House Interchange, Tai Po North
Interchange, and Lam Kam Road Interchange from dual 2-lane to dual 3-lane,
except Sha Tin bound carriageway at Tai Po North Interchange, which is
widened from 3-lane to 4-lane, including realignment of various slip roads;
|
|
(iii)
|
Modification
and reconstruction of highways, vehicular bridges, underpasses and
footbridges.
|
1.1.5.
The construction works for this Project
will be delivered in 2 stages i.e. Stage 1 (between Island House Interchange
and Tai Hang) and Stage 2 (between Tai Hang and Wo Hop Shek Interchange). The
construction works of Stage 1 commenced on 23 November 2009 and will
tentatively be completed in December 2013; while construction
programme of Stage 2 is currently under review. This report focuses on Stage 1
of the Project only.
1.1.6.
The construction works for Stage 1 of
the Project will be implemented under 2 works contracts (Contract 1 and
Contract 2). Contract 1 covers the
section of Tolo Highway between Island House Interchange and Ma Wo, Contract 2
covers the section of Tolo Highway between Ma Wo and Tai Hang.
1.1.7.
Hyder-Arup-Black and Veatch Joint
Venture (HABVJV) are appointed by Highways Department (HyD) as the consultants
for the design and construction assignment for the Tolo project under Agreement
No. CE 58/2000 Supplementary Agreement No. 3 (SA3) (i.e. the Engineer for the
Contracts).
1.1.8.
China State Construction Engineering
(Hong Kong) Ltd. (CSHK) was commissioned as the Contractor of Contract 1 of
Stage 1 of the Project, while Gammon Construction Limited (GCL) was
commissioned as the Contractor of Contract 2 of Stage 1 of the Project.
1.1.9.
AECOM Asia Co. Ltd. was employed by HyD
as the Environmental Team (ET) to undertake the Environmental
Monitoring and Audit (EM&A) works
for Stage 1 of the Project and Mott MacDonald Hong Kong Ltd. acts as the
Independent Environmental Checker (IEC) for the Contracts.
1.1.10.
The construction phase of Stage 1 under
the EP commenced on 23 November 2009.
1.1.11.
According to the updated EM&A
Manual of Stage 1 of the Project, there is a need of an EM&A programme
including air quality and noise monitoring. The EM&A programme for Stage 1
of the Project commenced on 23 November 2009.
1.2
Scope of Report
1.2.1
This is the thirty-ninth monthly EM&A Report under the
Agreement No. CE 20/2009 (EP) - Widening of Tolo Highway between Island House
Interchange and Tai Hang ¨C Investigation.
This report presents a summary of the environmental monitoring and audit
works, list of activities and mitigation measures proposed by the ET for Stage
1 of the Project in January 2013.
1.3
Project Organization
1.3.1
The project organization structure is shown in
Appendix A. The key personnel contact names and numbers are summarized in Table
1.1.
Table
1.1 Contact
Information of Key Personnel
|
Party
|
Position
|
Name
|
Telephone
|
Fax
|
|
ER of Stage 1, Contract 1
(Hyder-Arup-Black
& Veatch Joint Venture)
|
Chief Resident Engineer /TOLO1
|
James Tsang
|
9038 8797
|
26674000
|
|
ER of Stage 1, Contract 2
(Hyder-Arup-Black
& Veatch Joint Venture)
|
Chief Resident Engineer /TOLO2
|
Paul Appleton
|
9097 5833
|
2653 2348
|
|
IEC of Stage 1
(Mott MacDonald Hong Kong Limited)
|
Independent Environmental
Checker
|
Terence Kong
|
2828 5919
|
2827 1823
|
|
Contractor of
Stage 1, Contract 1
(China State Construction
Engineering (Hong Kong) Limited)
|
Site Agent
|
Eddie Tang
|
9863 7686
|
2667 5666
|
|
Environmental Officer
|
Ken Cheung
|
9803 5297
|
2667 5666
|
|
M L Lam
|
9489 4641
|
2667 5666
|
|
Contractor of
Stage 1, Contract 2
(Gammon Construction Limited)
|
Site Agent
|
John Chan
|
3126 1202
|
2559 3410
|
|
Environmental Officer
|
Thomson Chang
|
9213
6569
|
2559 3410
|
|
Crispin Ao
|
9223
8773
|
2559 3410
|
|
Ao Ho Fo
|
9220
5848
|
2559 3410
|
|
ET of Stage 1
(AECOM Asia Company Limited)
|
ET Leader
|
Y T Tang
|
3922 9393
|
2371 7609
|
1.4
Summary of Construction Works
1.4.1 The construction phase of Stage 1 under the EP commenced on
23 November 2009.
1.4.2 Details of the construction works carried out by the
Contract 1 Contractor (China State Construction Engineering (Hong Kong) Ltd.)
in this reporting period are listed below:-
-
Temporary shoring, sheetpiling and excavation;
-
Pile cap construction (Noise Barrier);
-
Installation of soil nails;
-
At-grade road construction;
-
Widening and demolition ofcentral dividers;
-
Retaining wall construction;
-
Bridge deck construction;
-
Noise barrier footing construction;
-
Noise barrier panels installation;
-
Asphalt laying;
-
Installation of Drainage Pipes;
-
Modification of Edge coping; and
-
Pre-bored socket H-pile.
1.4.3 Details of the construction works carried out by the
Contract 2 Contractor (Gammon Construction Ltd.) in this reporting period are
listed below:-
-
Condition survey of existing structures;
-
Initial and record survey;
-
Survey Setting out works for slopes and structures;
-
Setting up the temporary traffic arrangement;
-
Excavation of trial trenches to locate existing utilities;
-
Construction of haul road;
-
Extension of box culvert and subway;
-
Structural works of bridges;
-
Construction of Pilecap / Spread footing of Noise Barrier / Semi
Noise Enclosure;
-
Slope works, including installation of soil nails;
-
NTHA Mitigation Works;
-
Retaining wall construction;
-
Noise barrier construction;
-
Modification / Demolition of existing bridge structures;
-
Entrusted watermains works; and
-
Sewer Installation.
1.4.4 The Construction Programmes are shown in Appendix B.
1.4.5 The general layout plan of the Project site showing the
contract areas is shown in Figure 1.1.
1.4.6 The environmental mitigation measures implementation
schedule are presented in Appendix C.
1.5
Summary of EM&A Programme Requirements
1.5.1 The EM&A programme required environmental monitoring
for air quality, noise and environmental site inspections for air quality,
water quality, noise, waste management, ecology, and landscape and visual
impact. The EM&A requirements for each parameter described in the following
sections include:-
- All monitoring
parameters;
- Monitoring
schedules for the reporting month and forthcoming months;
- Action and
Limit levels for all environmental parameters;
- Event / Action
Plan;
- Environmental
mitigation measures, as recommended in the Project EIA study final report; and
- Environmental
requirement in contract documents.
2
AIR QUALITY MONITORING
2.1 Monitoring
Requirements
2.1.1
In accordance with the updated EM&A Manual,
baseline 1-hour and 24-hour TSP levels at 4 air quality monitoring stations were
established. Impact 1-hour TSP monitoring was conducted for at least three
times every 6 days, while impact 24-hour TSP monitoring was carried out for at
least once every 6 days. The Action and Limit level of the air quality
monitoring is provided in Appendix D.
2.2 Monitoring
Equipment
2.2.1
24-hour TSP air quality monitoring was
performed using High Volume Sampler (HVS) located at each designated monitoring
station. The HVS meets all the requirements of the updated EM&A
Manual. Portable direct reading
dust meters were used to carry out the 1-hour TSP monitoring. Brand and model of the equipment is
given in Table 2.1.
Table 2.1 Air Quality Monitoring Equipment
|
Equipment
|
Brand
and Model
|
|
Portable direct reading dust meter
(1-hour TSP)
|
Sibata Digital Dust Monitor (Model
No. LD-3 and LD-3B)
|
|
High Volume Sampler
(24-hour TSP)
|
Tisch Total Suspended Particulate
Mass Flow Controlled High Volume Air Sampler (Model No. TE-5170
& GMW-2310)
|
2.3 Monitoring
Locations
2.3.1
Monitoring locations AM2 and AM3 were set up at
the proposed locations in accordance with updated EM&A Manual. However, for
monitoring locations: Dynasty View and Tai Po Garden, proposed in the updated
EM&A Manual, as approval could not be obtained from the owner¡¯s corporation
of the premises, baseline and impact air quality monitoring was conducted at 13
Ha Wun Yiu (AM1) and Tai Kwong Secondary School (AM4) respectively. The
monitoring station at 13 Ha Wun Yiu (AM1) was relocated to Fan Sin Temple, 3
Sheung Wun Yiu (AM1A) in February 2010. Also, the monitoring station at Tai
Kwong Secondary School (AM4) was relocated to 168 Shek Kwu Lung Village (AM4A)
in September 2011.
2.3.2 Figure
2.1 shows the locations of monitoring stations. Table 2.2 describes the details
of the monitoring stations.
Table 2.2 Locations
of Impact Air Quality Monitoring Stations
|
Monitoring Station
|
Location
|
Description
|
|
AM1A
|
3 Sheung
Wun Yiu
|
Ground
floor at the boundary outside Fan Sin Temple
|
|
AM2
|
12 Shan
Tong New Village
|
Ground
floor outside the premises
|
|
AM3
|
Riverain
Bayside
|
Roof of
the switch room
|
|
AM4A
|
168 Shek Kwu Lung Village
|
Roof of
the switch room
|
2.4 Monitoring
Parameters, Frequency and Duration
2.4.1
Table 2.3 summarizes the monitoring parameters,
frequency and duration of impact TSP monitoring.
Table 2.3 Air
Quality Monitoring Parameters, Frequency and Duration
|
Parameter
|
Frequency
and Duration
|
|
1-hour TSP
|
Three times every 6 days while the highest dust impact was
expected
|
|
24-hour TSP
|
Once every 6 days
|
2.5 Monitoring
Methodology
2.5.1
24-hour TSP Monitoring
(a)
The HVS was installed in the vicinity
of the air sensitive receivers. The
following criteria were considered in the installation of the HVS.
(i)
A horizontal platform with appropriate
support to secure the sampler against gusty wind was provided.
(ii)
The distance between the HVS and any
obstacles, such as buildings, was at least twice the height that the obstacle
protrudes above the HVS.
(iii)
A minimum of 2 meters separation from
walls, parapets and penthouse for rooftop sampler.
(iv)
A minimum of 2 meters separation from any supporting
structure, measured horizontally.
(v)
No furnace or incinerator flues nearby.
(vi)
Airflow around the sampler was
unrestricted.
(vii)
Permission was obtained to set up the samplers
and access to the monitoring stations.
(viii)
A secured supply of electricity was
obtained to operate the samplers.
(ix)
The sampler was located more than 20
meters from any dripline.
(x)
Any wire fence and gate, required to
protect the sampler, did not obstruct the monitoring process.
(xi)
Flow control accuracy was kept within
¡À2.5% deviation over 24-hour sampling period.
(b)
Preparation of Filter Papers
(i)
Glass fibre filters, G810 were labelled
and sufficient filters that were clean and without pinholes were selected.
(ii)
All filters were equilibrated in the
conditioning environment for 24 hours before weighing. The conditioning
environment temperature was around 25 ¡ãC
and not variable by more than ¡À3 ¡ãC;
the relative humidity (RH) was < 50% and not variable by more than ¡À5%. A
convenient working RH was 40%.
(iii)
All filter papers were prepared and
analysed by ALS Technichem (HK) Pty Ltd., which is a HOKLAS accredited
laboratory and has comprehensive quality assurance and quality control
programmes.
(c)
Field Monitoring
(i)
The power supply was checked to ensure
the HVS works properly.
(ii)
The filter holder and the area
surrounding the filter were cleaned.
(iii)
The filter holder was removed by
loosening the four bolts and a new filter, with stamped number upward, on a
supporting screen was aligned carefully.
(iv)
The filter was properly aligned on the
screen so that the gasket formed an airtight seal on the outer edges of the
filter.
(v)
The swing bolts were fastened to hold
the filter holder down to the frame.
The pressure applied was sufficient to avoid air leakage at the edges.
(vi)
Then the shelter lid was closed and was
secured with the aluminum strip.
(vii)
The HVS was warmed-up for about 5
minutes to establish run-temperature conditions.
(viii)
A new flow rate record sheet was set
into the flow recorder.
(ix)
On site temperature and atmospheric
pressure readings were taken and the flow rate of the HVS was checked and
adjusted at around 1.1 m3/min, and complied with the range specified
in the updated EM&A Manual (i.e. 0.6-1.7 m3/min).
(x)
The programmable digital timer was set for
a sampling period of 24 hrs, and the starting time, weather condition and the
filter number were recorded.
(xi)
The initial elapsed time was recorded.
(xii)
At the end of sampling, on site
temperature and atmospheric pressure readings were taken and the final flow
rate of the HVS was checked and recorded.
(xiii)
The final elapsed time was recorded.
(xiv)
The sampled filter was removed
carefully and folded in half length so that only surfaces with collected
particulate matter were in contact.
(xv)
It was then placed in a clean plastic
envelope and sealed.
(xvi)
All monitoring information was recorded
on a standard data sheet.
(xvii)
Filters were then sent to ALS
Technichem (HK) Pty Ltd. for analysis.
(d)
Maintenance and Calibration
(i)
The HVS and its accessories were
maintained in good working condition, such as replacing motor brushes routinely
and checking electrical wiring to ensure a continuous power supply.
(ii)
5-point calibration of the HVS was
conducted using TE-5025A
Calibration Kit prior to the commencement of baseline monitoring. Bi-monthly
5-point calibration of the HVS will be carried out during impact monitoring.
(iii)
Calibration certificate of the HVSs are
provided in Appendix E.
2.5.2
1-hour TSP Monitoring
(a)
Measuring Procedures
The measuring procedures of the
1-hour dust meter were in accordance with the Manufacturer¡¯s Instruction Manual
as follows:-
(i)
Turn the power on.
(ii)
Close the air collecting opening cover.
(iii)
Push the ¡°TIME SETTING¡± switch to [BG].
(iv)
Push ¡°START/STOP¡± switch to perform
background measurement for 6 seconds.
(v)
Turn the knob at SENSI ADJ position to
insert the light scattering plate.
(vi)
Leave the equipment for 1 minute upon
¡°SPAN CHECK¡± is indicated in the display.
(vii)
Push ¡°START/STOP¡± switch to perform
automatic sensitivity adjustment. This measurement takes 1 minute.
(viii)
Pull out the knob and return it to
MEASURE position.
(ix)
Push the ¡°TIME SETTING¡± switch the time
set in the display to 3 hours.
(x)
Lower down the air collection opening
cover.
(xi)
Push ¡°START/STOP¡± switch to start
measurement.
(b)
Maintenance and Calibration
(i)
The 1-hour TSP meter was calibrated at
1-year intervals against a continuous particulate TEOM Monitor, Series 1400ab.
Calibration certificates of the Laser Dust Monitors are provided in Appendix E.
(ii)
1-hour validation checking of the TSP
meter against HVS is carried out yearly at the air quality monitoring
locations.
2.6
Monitoring Schedule for the Reporting Month
2.6.1
The schedule for environmental monitoring in
January 2013 is provided in Appendix F.
2.7
Monitoring Results
2.7.1
The baseline condition of air quality in the
Project site was reviewed in October and November 2009. A baseline monitoring
of air quality, in terms of 1-hour Total Suspended Particulates (TSP) and
24-hour TSP, was carried out from 20 October 2009 to 4 November 2009 for 14
days. The baseline monitoring report was submitted by ETL and approved by the
ER and the IEC on 9 November 2009. Action Levels for air quality were
established and are summarized in Table 2.4, Table 2.5 and Appendix D.
2.8
Results and Observations
2.8.1
The monitoring results for 1-hour TSP and 24-hour
TSP are summarized in Table 2.4 and 2.5 respectively. Detailed impact air
quality monitoring results are presented in Appendix G.
Table 2.4 Summary
of 1-hour TSP Monitoring Results in the Reporting Period
|
|
Average ((g/m3)
|
Range ((g/m3)
|
Action Level ((g/m3)
|
Limit Level ((g/m3)
|
|
AM1A
|
81.4
|
78.4 ¨C 83.4
|
302.1
|
500
|
|
AM2
|
80.6
|
74.9 ¨C 83.3
|
301.9
|
500
|
|
AM3
|
80.9
|
74.2 ¨C 84.0
|
301.9
|
500
|
|
AM4A
|
81.1
|
74.8 ¨C 84.0
|
302.3
|
500
|
Table 2.5 Summary of 24-hour
TSP Monitoring Results in the Reporting Period
|
|
Average (mg/m3)
|
Range ((g/m3)
|
Action Level ((g/m3)
|
Limit Level ((g/m3)
|
|
AM1A
|
75.5
|
57.8 ¨C 116.6
|
176.6
|
260
|
|
AM2
|
49.9
|
15.9 ¨C 86.5
|
178.6
|
260
|
|
AM3
|
45.9
|
30.9 ¨C 64.0
|
193.1
|
260
|
|
AM4A
|
88.9
|
56.6 ¨C 112.7
|
198.5
|
260
|
2.8.2
The major dust source in the reporting period
included construction activities from Stage 1 of the Project, as well as nearby
traffic emissions.
2.8.3
All 1-hour and 24-hour TSP results were below the
Action and Limit Level at all monitoring locations in the reporting month.
2.8.4
The event action plan is annexed in Appendix J.
2.8.5
Weather information including wind speed and
wind direction is annexed in Appendix H. The information was obtained from Hong
Kong Observatory Sha Tin and Tai Mei Tuk Automatic Weather Station. As some of
the weather data in January 2013 from the Tai Mei Tuk Automatic Weather Station
were missing, the weather data from Tai Po Automatic Weather Station in January 2013 are included
in Appendix H for supplementary purpose.
3
Noise MONITORING
3.1
Monitoring Requirements
3.1.1
In accordance with the EM&A Manual, impact
noise monitoring was conducted for at least once per week during the
construction phase of Stage 1 of the Project. The Action and Limit level of the noise monitoring
is provided in Appendix D.
3.2
Monitoring Equipment
3.2.1
Noise monitoring was performed using sound
level meter at each designated monitoring station. The sound level meters deployed comply
with the International Electrotechnical Commission Publications (IEC) 651:1979
(Type 1) and 804:1985 (Type 1) specifications. Acoustic calibrator was deployed to
check the sound level meters at a known sound pressure level. Brand and model of the equipment is
given in Table 3.1.
Table 3.1 Noise
Monitoring Equipment
|
Equipment
|
Brand and Model
|
|
Integrated
Sound Level Meter
|
Rion NL-31
/ B&k 2238
|
|
Acoustic
Calibrator
|
Rion NC-73
|
3.3
Monitoring Locations
3.3.1
Monitoring stations NM3, NM6 and NM7 were set up
at the proposed locations in accordance with updated EM&A Manual. However,
for monitoring locations: Tai Po Garden (NM1), Dynasty View (NM2), Hong Kong
Teachers¡¯ Association Lee Heng Kwei Secondary School (NM4) and Grand Palisades
(NM5), proposed in the updated EM&A Manual, impact noise monitoring was
conducted at alternative monitoring locations, as approval of access could not
be obtained from the owner¡¯s corporation of the premises or the principal of
the education institutes. The monitoring station at Tai Kwong Secondary School
(NM1) was relocated to 168 Shek Kwu Lung Village (NM1A) in September 2011.
3.3.2
Figure 2.1 shows the locations of the
monitoring stations. Table 3.2 describes the details of the monitoring
stations.
Table 3.2 Locations
of Impact Noise Monitoring Stations
|
Monitoring Station
|
Location
|
Description
|
|
NM1A
|
168 Shek Kwu Lung Village
|
1m from the exterior wall of the
village house
|
|
NM2
|
38 Ha Wun Yiu
|
1.2m from the ground floor free-field
of the village house
|
|
NM3
|
Wong Shiu Chi Middle School
|
1m from the exterior of the roof top
façade of the New Wing
|
|
NM4
|
Uptown Plaza
|
1m from the exterior of the roof top
façade of Block 4
|
|
NM5
|
The Paragon
|
1m from the exterior of the roof top
façade of the club house
|
|
NM6
|
PLK Tin Ka Ping Primary School
|
1.2m ground floor free-field near the
entrance
|
|
NM7
|
Riverain Bayside
|
1m from the exterior of the roof
façade of the switch room
|
3.4
Monitoring Parameters, Frequency and Duration
3.4.1
Table 3.3 summarizes the monitoring parameters,
frequency and duration of impact noise monitoring.
Table
3.3 Noise
Monitoring Parameters, Frequency and Duration
|
Parameter
|
Frequency
and Duration
|
|
30-mins measurement at each monitoring station between 0700 and
1900 on normal weekdays. Leq, L10 and L90
would be recorded.
|
At least once per week
|
3.5
Monitoring Methodology
3.5.1
Monitoring Procedure
(a)
Façade measurements were made at all
monitoring locations, except monitoring stations NM2 and NM6.
(b)
The sound level meter was set on a
tripod at a height of 1.2 m
above the ground for free-field measurements at NM2 and NM6.
(c)
The battery condition was checked to
ensure the correct functioning of the meter.
(d)
Parameters such as frequency weighting,
the time weighting and the measurement time were set as follows:-
(i)
frequency weighting: A
(ii)
time weighting: Fast
(iii)
time measurement: Leq(30-minutes)
during non-restricted hours i.e. 07:00 ¨C 1900 on normal weekdays; Leq(5-minutes)
during restricted hours i.e. 19:00 ¨C 23:00 and 23:00 ¨C 07:00 of normal weekdays, whole day of
Sundays and Public Holidays
(e)
Prior to and after each noise
measurement, the meter was calibrated using the acoustic calibrator for 94dB(A)
at 1000 Hz. If the difference in
the calibration level before and after measurement was more than 1 dB(A), the
measurement would be considered invalid and repeat of noise measurement would
be required after re-calibration or repair of the equipment.
(f)
During the monitoring period, the Leq,
L10 and L90 were recorded. In addition, site conditions and noise
sources were recorded on a standard record sheet.
(g)
Noise measurement was paused during
periods of high intrusive noise (e.g. dog barking, helicopter noise) if
possible. Observations were recorded when intrusive noise was unavoidable.
(h)
Noise monitoring was cancelled in the
presence of fog, rain, wind with a steady speed exceeding 5m/s, or wind with gusts exceeding 10m/s.
3.5.2
Maintenance and Calibration
(a)
The microphone head of the sound level
meter was cleaned with soft cloth at regular intervals.
(b)
The meter and calibrator were sent to
the supplier or HOKLAS laboratory to check and calibrate at yearly intervals.
(c)
Calibration certificates of the sound
level meters and acoustic calibrators are provided in Appendix E.
3.6
Monitoring Schedule for the Reporting Month
3.6.1
The schedule for environmental monitoring in
January 2013 is
provided in Appendix F.
3.7
Monitoring Results
3.7.1
The monitoring results for construction noise
are summarized in Table 3.4 and the monitoring data is provided in Appendix I.
Table 3.4 Summary of Construction Noise Monitoring Results in the Reporting
Period
|
|
Average, dB(A),
Leq (30 mins)
|
Range, dB(A),
Leq (30 mins)
|
Limit Level, dB(A),
Leq (30 mins)
|
|
NM1A
|
63.8
|
63.5 ¨C 64.0
|
75
|
|
NM2
|
66.6*
|
63.6 ¨C 67.6*
|
75
|
|
NM3
|
60.0
|
54.6 ¨C 63.4
|
70#
|
|
NM4
|
65.2
|
59.8 ¨C 67.2
|
75
|
|
NM5
|
61.5
|
56.9 ¨C 63.8
|
75
|
|
NM6
|
61.8*
|
55.4 ¨C 64.2*
|
70#
|
|
NM7
|
58.6
|
57.7 ¨C 59.7
|
75
|
*+3dB(A) Façade correction
included
# Limit Level of 70dB(A) applies to education institutes while 65dB(A)
applies during school examination period.
3.7.2
There was no noise complaint related to 0700 ¨C
1900 hours on normal weekdays was received and
followed up by Environmental Team in the reporting period. Hence, no
Action Level exceedance was recorded.
3.7.3
No noise monitoring result exceeding the Limit
Level was recorded at all monitoring stations in the reporting month.
3.7.4
Major noise sources during the noise monitoring
included construction activities of Stage 1 of the Project and nearby traffic
noise and general school activities.
3.7.5
The event action plan is annexed in Appendix J.
4
ENVIRONMENTAL SITE
INSPECTION AND AUDIT
4.1
Site Inspection
4.1.1 Site Inspections
were carried out on a weekly basis to monitor the implementation of proper
environmental pollution control and mitigation measures for Stage 1 of the
Project. In the reporting month, 5 site inspections were carried out on 2, 10,
16, 23 and 30 January 2013 for Contract 1 of the Project, and 5 site inspections for
Contract 2 of the Project were carried out on 3, 10, 17, 24 and 31 January 2013.
4.1.2 The
environmental site inspections summaries are provided in Appendix K.
4.1.3
Particular observations during the site
inspections for Contract 1 are described below:
Air Quality
4.1.4
Broken concretes
were accumulated at Area NB17. The
Contractor was reminded to maintain the surface of broken concretes in wet or
cover the broken concretes by tarpaulin sheets.
4.1.5
Mud trails were
observed at Gate 3. Although, the mud trails were removed by worker
immediately, the Contractor should ensure that wheel washing facilities were
operating at all vehicular site entrances/exits to wash off the deposited silt
on vehicles¡¯ wheels and bodies and combine with cleaning of public roads
wherever necessary and practical.
Noise
4.1.6
No adverse observation was identified in the
reporting month.
Water Quality
4.1.7
Mud trails were
observed at Gate 3. Although, the mud trails were removed by worker
immediately, the Contractor should ensure that wheel washing facilities were
operating at all vehicular site entrances/exits to wash off the deposited silt
on vehicles¡¯ wheels and bodies and combine with cleaning of public roads
wherever necessary and practical.
Chemical and Waste Management
4.1.8
Oil stains were
observed on bare ground at Banyan Bridge. The Contractor was reminded to remove
the oil stains as soon as possible and handle it as chemical waste.
Landscape and Visual Impact
4.1.9
No adverse observation was identified in the
reporting month.
Miscellaneous
4.1.10
No adverse observation was identified in the
reporting month.
4.1.11 Particular
observations and reminder during the site inspections for Contract 2 are
described below:
Air Quality
4.1.12 No dust mitigation measure was provided for broken concrete
in Area NLKP10. The Contractor was reminded to provide proper mitigation
measures such as provision of water-spraying or covering the broken concrete to
provide any fugitive dust generation.
Noise
4.1.13
No adverse observation was identified in the
reporting month.
Water Quality
4.1.14
Mud trails were
observed at site entrance G2 and exit
of Area LB1SA. Although, the mud trails were removed by worker immediately, the
Contractor should ensure that wheel washing facilities were operating at all
vehicular site entrances/exits to wash off the deposited silt on vehicles¡¯
wheels and bodies and combine with cleaning of public roads wherever necessary
and practical.
Chemical and Waste Management
4.1.15
C&D wastes were
observed accumulated in several site areas. The Contractor was reminded to
dispose the C&D wastes regularly and maintain the site cleanliness and
tidiness. The Contractor was also reminded to sort the construction waste
properly and recycle the sorted construction wastes as regular practice.
4.1.16
No label was provided for recycling bin of alminium¡¯s can
at Area NLKSA. The Contractor was reminded to label the recycling bin properly.
Landscape and Visual Impact
4.1.17 No
adverse observation was identified in the reporting month.
Miscellaneous
4.1.18
No adverse observation was identified in the
reporting month.
4.2
Advice on the Solid and Liquid Waste
Management Status
4.2.1
The Contract 1 Contractor (CSHK) and the
Contract 2 Contractor (GCL) are registered as chemical waste producers for Stage
1 of the Project. C&D material sorting was carried out on site. Sufficient
numbers of receptacles were available for general refuse collection.
4.2.2
As advised by the Contract 1 Contractor (CSHK),
452m3 of inert
C&D material was disposed as public fill to Tuen Mun 38 (of which 1118m3 was broken concrete), while
150m3
of general refuse was disposed at NENT landfill. 159kg of
paper/cardboard packaging, 3,139kg of plastics and 48,334kg of metals were collected by recycling contractor in the
reporting month. 1,933m3 and 1316m3 of inert
C&D materials were reused on site and reused in NENT for backfilling
purpose respectively. 0kg chemical waste was collected by licensed
contractor in the reporting period.
4.2.3
As advised by the Contract 2 Contractor (GCL), 80m3
of inert C&D material were disposed to Tuen Mun 38 and 300m3
general refuse was disposed to NENT landfill in the reporting period. 240,000kg of
paper/cardboard packaging were collected by recycling contractor in the reporting
month. No chemical
waste was collected by licensed contractor in the reporting period.
4.2.4
The Contract 1 Contractor (CSHK) and the
Contract 2 Contractor (GCL) are advised to maintain on site waste sorting and
recording system and maximize reuse / recycle of C&D wastes.
4.3
Environmental Licenses and Permits
4.3.1
The environmental licenses and permits for
Stage 1 of the Project and valid in the reporting month is summarized in Table
4.1.
Table 4.1 Summary
of Environmental Licensing and Permit Status
|
Statutory Reference
|
License/ Permit
|
License or Permit No.
|
Valid Period
|
License/ Permit Holder
|
Remarks
|
|
From
|
To
|
|
EIAO
|
Environmental
Permit
|
EP-324/2008/A
|
31/01/2012
|
N/A
|
HyD
|
Tolo
Highway/Fanling Highway between Island House
Interchange and Ma Wo
|
|
WPCO
|
Discharge License
(Office)
|
WT00005096-2009
|
03/12/2009
|
31/12/2014
|
CSHK
|
Discharge at Site
Office
|
|
Discharge License
(Site)
|
WT00005445-2009
|
15/12/2009
|
31/12/2014
|
CSHK
|
Discharge of
Construction Runoff
|
|
Discharge License
(Office)
|
WT00006782-2010
|
25/06/2010
|
30/06/2015
|
GCL
|
Discharge at Site
Office
|
|
Discharge License
(Site)
|
WT00007162-2010
|
09/08/2010
|
31/07/2015
|
GCL
|
Discharge of
Construction Runoff
|
|
WDO
|
Chemical Waste
Producer Registration
|
5213-727-C3249-46
|
25/09/2009
|
N/A
|
CSHK
|
Chemical waste
produced in Contract HY/2008/09
|
|
5213-722-G2347-18
|
18/05/2010
|
N/A
|
GCL
|
Chemical waste
produced in Contract HY/2009/08
|
|
WDO
|
Billing
Account for Disposal of
Construction Waste
|
7009328
|
08/09/2009
|
N/A
|
CSHK
|
Waste disposal in
Contract HY/2008/09
|
|
7010320
|
02/03/2010
|
N/A
|
GCL
|
Waste disposal in
Contract HY/2009/08
|
|
.NCO
|
Construction Noise Permit
|
GW-RN0350-12
|
22/07/2012
|
13/01/2013
|
CSHK
|
Modification of Sign Gantries along Tolo Highway
|
|
GW-RN0351-12
|
19/07/2012
|
18/01/2013
|
CSHK
|
TB1&2 Construction
|
|
GW-RN0434-12
|
13/09/2012
|
16/02/2013
|
CSHK
|
Routine Road Maintenance
|
|
GW-
RN516-12
|
24/10/2012
|
23/04/2013
|
CSHK
|
Construction of W4 - NLKRB
South Abutment
|
|
GW-RN0550-12
|
20/11/2012
|
02/03/2013
|
CSHK
|
Road Marking Alternation
Banyan West Bridge
|
|
GW-RN0564-12
|
29/11/2012
|
30/04/2013
|
CSHK
|
Installation of Noise Barrier
at Tolo Highway near Yuen Shin Road
|
|
GW-RN0565-12
|
22/11/2012
|
09/02/2013
|
CSHK
|
Bridge 10A Deck Stitching
|
|
GW-RN0566-12
|
30/11/2012
|
28/02/2013
|
CSHK
|
Works next to MTRC's Tracks
|
|
GW-RN0622-12
|
28/12/2012
|
09/03/2013
|
CSHK
|
Demolition of Temporary
Bridge (TB1&2)
|
|
GW-RN0001-13
|
06/01/2013
|
10/03/2013
|
CSHK
|
Noise Barrier Installation near Classical Garden
|
|
GW-RN0020-13
|
03/02/2013
|
24/03/2013
|
CSHK
|
Road Marking Alternation at Tolo Highway near Classical Garden
|
|
GW-RN0024-13
|
27/01/2013
|
17/03/2013
|
CSHK
|
Road Marking Alternation at Tolo Highway near Tai Po Road to
Yuen Chau Tsai
|
|
GW-RN0034-13
|
29/01/2013
|
30/06/2013
|
CSHK
|
Modification of Sign Gantries (G75)
|
|
GW-RN0043-13
|
26/01/2013
|
24/03/2013
|
CSHK
|
Road Marking Alternation at
Tolo Highway near Slip Road to Tat Wan Road
|
|
GW-RN0040-13
|
24/01/2013
|
06/04/2013
|
CSHK
|
Pavement and Road Marking Alternation Works at Tolo Highway near
Island House Interchange
|
|
GW-RN0029-13
|
21/01/2013
|
20/07/2013
|
CSHK
|
TB1&2 Construction
|
|
GW-RN0330-12
|
29/08/2012
|
28/02/2013
|
GCL
|
Tolo Highway and Fanling Highway near Tai Po Tai Wo Road, Lam Kam
Interchange & Tai Wo Service Road West
|
|
GW-RN0398-12
|
27/08/2012
|
24/02/2013
|
GCL
|
Construction fo Bridge 12A at Tolo Highway
|
|
GW-RN0493-12
|
15/10/2012
|
14/04/2013
|
GCL
|
Construction of Bridge 15A
|
|
GW-RN0529-12
|
04/11/2012
|
28/04/2013
|
GCL
|
New Lam Kan Bridge Pier 4 and 5
|
|
GW-RN0546-12
|
20/11/2012
|
28/02/2013
|
GCL
|
Removal of Existing Sign Gantry (Nsn45) at Fanling Highway
|
|
GW-RN0551-12
|
16/11/2012
|
09/03/2013
|
GCL
|
Slip Road of Tai Po Tai Wo Road to Tolo Highway
|
|
GW-RN0602-12
|
28/12/2012
|
28/05/2013
|
GCL
|
Erection of Overhead Falsework Between NLKP9 and NLKP10
|
4.4
Implementation Status of Environmental
Mitigation Measures
4.4.1
In response to the site audit findings, the
Contractors carried out corrective actions.
4.4.2
A summary of the Implementation Schedule of
Environmental Mitigation Measures (EMIS) is presented in Appendix C. Most of
the necessary mitigation measures were implemented properly.
4.5
Summary of Exceedances of the Environmental
Quality Performance Limit
4.5.1
All 1-hour and 24-hour TSP monitoring results
complied with the Action / Limit Levels in the reporting period.
4.5.2
For construction noise, no Action and Limit
Level exceedance was recorded at all monitoring stations in the reporting
period.
4.6
Summary of Complaints, Notification of
Summons and Successful Prosecutions
4.6.1
The Environmental Complaint Handling Procedure
is annexed in Figure 4.1.
4.6.2 There were
two (2) follow-up complaints (included two (2) noise related complaints)
investigated by Environmental Team in January 2013.
4.6.3 There
were three (3) complaints (included one (1) air related complaint, one (1)
noise related complaint and one (1) water related complaint followed up by the
Environmental Team in January 2013.
4.6.4 The (1st)
follow-up noise complaint, was received by EPD on 24 December 2012, and
referred from EPD in the same day. EPD referred a complaint about hammering
noise generated from construction activities at the construction site for
bridge construction at Lam Kam Road and Tai Wo Service Road West (near Wai Tau
Tsuen) during the period from 00:00 to 06:00 in the recent two weeks caused
nuisance to nearby residents. The complainant called the Police before.
However, the police expressed that as Construction Noise Permit (CNP) had been
issued by EPD for the construction works, the complaint could not be handled by
the Police and requested the complainant contacted EPD for help. The complainant
strongly dissatisfied that EPD issued the CNP for the construction works and no
government staff had been seen to monitor the noise. The complainant opposed
the related CNP and strongly requested to reply and follow-up as soon as
possible. The complainant expressed if the construction works were still
carried out at night time again, he would lodge the complaint to the Director
and he would contact the Media immediately for reporting.
According
to the information of the Contractor (Gammon Construction Ltd.) and
confirmed by the Engineer, loading and unloading works, lifting & welding
steel beams, placing of concrete blocks, Inserting timber and plywood between
steel beams and inserting hand railing & tarpaulin were carried out at Lam
Kam Road and Tai Wo Service Road West (near Wai Tau Tsuen) during the period
between 01:00 ¨C 05:00 on 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 18, 19, 20, 21 & 22 December
2012 (ten nights). A valid Construction Noise Permit (CNP no.: GW-RN0549-12)
was obtained for the use of Powered Mechanical Equipments (PMEs) and carrying
out of Prescribed Construction work (PCW) for bridge construction at Lam Kam Road and Tai Wo Service
Road West (near Wai Tau Tsuen) in restrict hours (01:00 ¨C 05:00 in weekday). All
PMEs and PCW were carried out between 01:00 ¨C 05:00 in these ten nights. The
numbers and types of PMEs operated on the dates were complied with the CNP. No
PME was operated and no PCW were carried out (under CNPs - GW-RN0330-12,
GW-RN0433-12, GW-RN0523-12 and GW-RN0546-12) in the same period. PMEs and PCW
were only operated / carried in the ten weekday nights and therefore the
construction activities complied with the conditions of CNP (CNP no.:
GW-RN0549-12). Mobile cranes were equipped with appropriate noise control
measures as stated in the CNP. Site logs (by the Contractor), site surveillance
reports (by the Engineer), list of plants used during the construction works
(provided by the Contractor and confirmed by the Engineer) for these ten nights
were also checked for verification. Photo records for noise control measure of
mobile crane were also taken for reference. In accordance with the observation
of site inspection (by ET) on 27 December 2012, 3 January 2013, 10 January
2013, permanent noise barrier and temporary noise barrier were implemented near
the work areas (along the Wai Tau Tsuen) as a noise mitigation measure. However, the noise complaint was
considered as project-related. The Contractor is advised to implement the
mitigation measures below:
-
Strictly comply with the requirements
of the approved CNP for works carried out in restricted hours;
-
Better scheduling of works to minimize
noise nuisance;
-
Instruct the site workers to keep the
noise in minimum during construction works in restricted hours; and
-
Foster better public relations with the
sensitive receivers nearby.
4.6.5 The
(2nd) follow-up noise complaint, was received by EPD on 24 December
2012, and referred from EPD in the same day. EPD referred a complaint about noise nuisance generated from
construction activities, at the construction site for bridge construction
between Lam Kam Road and Tai Wo Service Road West at mid-night on Monday to
Friday and ongoing for two weeks, caused nuisance to Wai Tau Tsuen. The
complainant called the Police before and found out the related Construction Noise
Permit (CNP) in EPD¡¯s website. However, the complainant did not provide the
reference number of the CNP. The Complaint requested the Highways Department to
stop the construction works as soon as possible.
According to to
the information of the Contractor (Gammon Construction Ltd.) and confirmed by
the Engineer, loading and unloading works, lifting & welding steel beams,
placing of concrete blocks, Inserting timber and plywood between steel beams
and inserting hand railing & tarpaulin were carried out at Lam Kam Road and
Tai Wo Service Road West (near Wai Tau Tsuen) during the period between 01:00 ¨C
05:00 on 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 18, 19, 20, 21 & 22 December 2012 (ten
nights). A valid Construction Noise Permit (CNP no.: GW-RN0549-12) was obtained
for the use of Powered Mechanical Equipments (PMEs) and carrying out of
Prescribed Construction work (PCW) for bridge construction at Lam Kam Road and Tai Wo Service
Road West (near Wai Tau Tsuen) in restrict hours (01:00 ¨C 05:00 in weekday). All
PMEs and PCW were carried out between 01:00 ¨C 05:00 in these ten nights. The
numbers and types of PMEs operated on the dates were complied with the CNP. No
PME was operated and no PCW were carried out (under CNPs - GW-RN0330-12,
GW-RN0433-12, GW-RN0523-12 and GW-RN0546-12) in the same period. PMEs and PCW
were only operated / carried in the ten weekday nights and therefore the
construction activities complied with the conditions of CNP (CNP no.:
GW-RN0549-12). Mobile cranes were equipped with appropriate noise control
measures as stated in the CNP. Site logs (by the Contractor), site surveillance
reports (by the Engineer), list of plants used during the construction works
(provided by the Contractor and confirmed by the Engineer) for these ten nights
were also checked for verification. Photo records for noise control measure of
mobile crane were also taken for reference. In accordance with the observation
of site inspection (by ET) on 27 December 2012, 3 January 2013, 10 January
2013, permanent noise barrier and temporary noise barrier were implemented near
the work areas (along the Wai Tau Tsuen) as a noise mitigation measure.
However, the noise complaint was considered as project-related. The Contractor
is advised to implement the mitigation measures below:
-
Strictly comply with the requirements
of the approved CNP for works carried out in restricted hours;
-
Better scheduling of works to minimize
noise nuisance;
-
Instruct the site workers to keep the
noise in minimum during construction works in restricted hours; and
-
Foster better public relations with the
sensitive receivers nearby.
4.6.6
An
air complaint (from a resident of Ma Wo at Tai Po), was
received by EPD on 14, 17, 21,
December 2012 as well as 7 and 15 January 2013, and referred from EPD in
the same days. The complaint was about dust emission in construction site of
the Tolo Highway widening construction works at Ma Wo. The complainant
contacted the Contractor (Gammon Construction Ltd.) on 14 December 2012 and the
Contractor promised that water-spraying would be provided at the entrance of
the construction site. Although the complainant waited for 5 hours, no
water-spraying was provided by the Contractor. Fugitive dust was generated and
caused serious nuisance to the complainant¡¯s dwelling.
Subsequently,
the complainant made another call on 17 December 2012 saying that an EPD
personnel contacted him in the morning on 17 December 2012. However, still no
water-spraying was provided by the Contractor in the construction site on 17
December 2012. Fugitive dust generated overwhelmed the entrance of
complainant¡¯s dwelling. The complainant thereby requested the EPD to follow-up
and reply the complainant as soon as possible.
Afterwards,
the complainant also made other call on 21 December 2012 strongly complaining that
there are no water-spraying provided in the construction site as requested by
EPD and caused continuous dust nuisance to the complainant.
Afterward,
the complainant made a call on 7 January 2013 complained about dust emission
from construction site of the Tolo Highway widening construction works at Ma Wo
and cause nuisance, pollution problem have been observed over two years and the
condition were most serious specially on Saturday and Sunday. The Complainant
requested EPD and the Contractor to follow-up.
In
addition, the complainant made another call on 15 January 2013 complained that
the odour from asphalt paving works in the construction site nearby the
complainant¡¯s dwelling at Ma Wo and caused serious nuisance. The complainant
requested reply and follow-up.
As
informed by the Contractor (Gammon Construction Ltd) and confirmed by the Engineer of the Project,
rebar fixing at NB31 on 14 December 2012 (Friday); formwork erection and
concreting at NB31 on 17 December 2012 (Thursday); general fill & compaction
at NB31 on 21 December 2012 (Friday); scarifying CJ, erecting formwork, rebar
fixing, general fill & soil compaction at NB31 on 22 December 2012
(Saturday); general cleaning and concreting at NB31 on 29 December 2012
(Saturday); general fill, compaction, general cleaning and concreting at NB31
on 5 Jan 2013 (Saturday); laying of base course bitumen, trimming and
compaction of sub-base material near work areas W38 to W48 (Chainage
approximately 2500 ¨C 2700) on 15 January 2013 (Tuesday) were being carried out
at the work areas nearby the residential flat of the complainant (shown in
Figure 1 ¨C Site Layout near Ma Wo at Tai Po). There were no construction
activities conducted on Sunday (including 23 December 2012, 30 December 2012
and 6 Jan 2013) and only general site clearance (e.g. sweeping & washing
floor) was conducted on 30 December 2012 & 6 January 2013 and no Powered
Mechanical Equipment (PME) was involved or operated for the cleaning works on
Sunday. According to information provided by Contractor and confirmed by the
Engineer of the Project, the temporary bitumen paving work at Northbound
carriageway near W38-W45 was completed on 19 January 2013.
Mitigation measures, including
erection of tarpaulin dust screen along the work areas W44-NB31, water spraying
by workers and automatic sprinkler system for haul roads and exposed slopes,
covering non-working slopes by tarpaulin sheets within work areas, covering of
dusty materials carrying in dump trucks within work areas W45-47 were taken by
the Contractor. Besides, environmental supervisions (by the Contractor¡¯s
foremen) were conducted everyday to review the adequacy and effectiveness of
dust suppression measure at work areas. Checklists of the Contractor¡¯s
environmental supervision were checked for verification. Notice board was also erected at
site boundary to write down daily dusty activities (e.g. rock breaking,
excavation, grouting and backfilling etc) / activities with odour emission
(e.g. laying of base course bitumen) carried out within work areas W38 ¨C W48,
NB31 for notification / information to Ma Wo¡¯s residents.
With reference to the monitoring results recorded on days
near to the day of complaint at the nearest EM&A monitoring station (AM1A-
Sheung Wun Yiu), the 24-hour TSP level on 12, 18, 24, 29 December 2012, 2 and 8
January 2013 were found to be 58.3ug/m3, 27.3ug/m3, 70.5ug/m3,
20.2ug/m3, 60.2ug/m3, 116.6ug/m3 respectively,
which were below the action level of 176.6 ug/m3
Nevertheless,
the complaint was considered as project-related. Therefore, the Contractor is
reminded to enhance the dust mitigation as below:
-
Confirm
the implementation of dust mitigation measures (erection
of tarpaulin dust screen along the work areas W44-NB31, spraying water by
manual worker / sprinkler systems for the haul roads and exposed slopes at work
areas W44-NB31, covering non-working slopes by tarpaulin sheets within work
areas, covering of dusty materials carrying in dump trucks within work areas
W45-47) during all construction / dusty
activities to prevent any fugitive dust generation;
-
Increase the frequency of watering
in the work areas (specially in the entrance of the construction site, site
haul roads and exposed slopes / areas in the work areas W44-NB31) to
maintain the surface of site haul roads and exposed surfaces in wet condition.
-
Cover the backfilling surface after
work;
-
Maintain soil surface wet before
loading and unloading activities;
-
Maintain the frequency of the
environmental supervision (by the Contractor) to regular review the adequacy
and effectiveness of dust suppression measures to suit the construction
progress;
-
Inform the complainant before dusty
activities to be carried out, such as rock breaking, excavation, grouting and
backfilling etc; and
-
Foster better public relations with
the sensitive receivers / the complainant nearby.
During site inspection on 24 January 2013,
backfilling activity was observed in work area W45. No laying work of base course
bitumen at W38 ¨C W45 was observed. Several mitigation measures were implemented
at the work area W38-47:
-
Dust
screen was erected along at the work area W44-NB31;
-
Impermeable sheet was
erected in backfilling area at W47;
-
Automatic
sprinklers were operated for watering of site haul roads / site areas;
-
Water
spraying for site haul roads / site areas was provided by worker
-
Haul
road at work area NB31 was paved and noise barriers were erected act as a dust
screen;
-
Site
haul road / site areas were dampened;
-
Maintain soil surface wet
during the backfilling activities
-
Dusty materials carrying
in dump trucks was covered within work areas W45-47;
-
Non-working slopes was properly covered
by tarpaulin sheets; and
-
Notice board was erected
at site boundary to write down daily dusty activities / activities with odour
emission carried out within work areas W38 ¨C W48, NB31 for notification /
information to Ma Wo¡¯s residents.
Besides,
the Contractor¡¯s site logs of environmental supervision and records of
communication between the Contractor and Ma Wo¡¯s residents were also checked. Dust
suppression measures were provided at work areas W38-48 and the deficiencies
were also rectified properly. No fugitive dust arising from the work area
W38-48 was observed.
4.6.7
A
noise complaint (from a resident of Ha Wun Yiu at Tai Po), was received by
EPD on 11 January 2013 and referred from EPD in the same day. According to complainant ¡°C¡±, the complainant¡¯s
dwelling located at Ha Wun Yiu Village was very close to Tolo Highway. The
complainant expressed that the road surface of Tolo Highway was uneven. When
heavy vehicle passed through the road, strong sound and noise, like explosion,
were produced. The noise seriously affected the complainant. Although the
complainant had complained this issue to Highways Department before, noise
barriers were still not installed and no improvement was observed. The
complaint requested
According to the information provided by the Contractor
(China State Construction Engineering (HK) Ltd.) and confirmed by the Engineer
of the Project, no construction activities were conducted over the road surface
of Tolo Highway Northbound at Western End of Bridge 10 and West Abutment (near
the complainant¡¯s dwelling) on 11 January 2013. According to the updated
construction programme (provided by the Contractor), noise barriers installation
work (1st half from east end & 2nd half to west end)
of Tolo Highway (near the complainant¡¯s dwelling) will be tentatively commenced
on 16 July 2013 and 7 August 2013 respectively.
With
reference to the noise monitoring results recorded on days near to the day of
complaint at the nearest EM&A monitoring station (NM2 ¨C 10 Ha Wun Yiu), the
noise level (Leq 30mins) on 8 January 2013 and 14 January 2013 were found to be
67.3dB(A) and 67.6dB(A) respectively, which were below the limit
level of 75dB(A).
Upon the complaint details and our investigation, the noise
mentioned in the complaint was considered due to traffic noise and was not
related to the noise from construction activities. Therefore, the noise
complaint was considered as non project-related.
4.6.8
A water complaint, was received by Highway on
28 January 2013, and referred from Highway on 30 January 2013. The complaint
was about muddy water discharged
from construction site nearby Tai Wo Estate to Lam Tsuen River on 26 January
2013 and contaminated the river water, the contaminated river water would pass
flow to Tolo harbour. The complaint was still under investigation in January
2013 and the investigation result will be reported in next Monthly EM&A
Report (February 2013).
4.6.9
No notification of summons and prosecution was
received in the reporting period.
4.6.10
Statistics on complaints, notifications of
summons and successful prosecutions are summarized in Appendix L.
5
FUTURE
KEY ISSUES
5.1
Construction Programme for the Coming Months
5.1.1
The major construction works for Contract 1 in February 2013 will
be:-
-
Temporary shoring, sheetpiling and excavation;
-
Pile cap construction (Noise Barrier);
-
Installation of soil nails;
-
At-grade road construction;
-
Widening and demolition of central dividers;
-
Retaining wall construction;
-
Bridge deck construction;
-
Noise barrier footing construction;
-
Noise barrier panels installation;
-
Asphalt laying;
-
Installation of drainage pipes;
-
Modification of edge coping; and
-
Pre-bored socket H-pile.
5.1.2
The major construction works for Contract 2 in February 2013 will
be:-
-
Condition survey of existing structures;
-
Excavation of trial trenches to locate existing utilities;
-
Construction of haul road;
-
Extension of box culvert and subway;
-
Construction of haul road;
-
Structural works of bridges;
-
Construction of pilecap / spread footing of noise barrier / semi
noise enclosure;
-
Slope works, including installation of soil nails;
-
Retaining wall construction;
-
Noise barrier construction;
-
Modification /demolition of existing bridge structures;
-
Entrusted watermains works; and
-
Sewer Installation.
5.2
Key Issues for the Coming Month
5.2.1
Key issues to be considered in February 2013:-
-
Properly store and label oils and chemicals on site;
-
Chemical, chemical waste and waste management;
-
Collection of construction waste should be carried out regularly;
-
Site runoff should be properly collected and treated prior to
discharge;
-
Properly maintain all drainage facilities and wheel washing
facilities on site;
-
Exposed slopes should be covered up properly if no temporary work
will be conducted;
-
Suppress dust generated from excavation, breaking and drilling
activities, haul road traffic and
grout
mixing process;
-
Quieter powered mechanical equipment should be used;
-
Closely check and replace the sound insulation materials wrapped
at the concrete breaker tip
regularly;
-
Better scheduling of construction works to minimize noise
nuisance; and
- Tree protective measures for all
retained trees should be well maintained.
5.3
Monitoring Schedule for the Coming Month
5.3.1
The tentative schedule for environmental
monitoring in February
2013 is provided in Appendix F.
6
ConclusionS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
6.1
Conclusions
6.1.1
The construction phase and EM&A programme
of Stage 1 of the project commenced on 23 November 2009.
6.1.2
1-hour TSP, 24-hour TSP and noise monitoring
were carried out in the reporting period.
6.1.3
All 1-hour and 24-hour TSP monitoring results
complied with the Action / Limit Levels in the reporting period.
6.1.4
No Action and Limit Level exceedance for construction noise
was recorded at all monitoring stations in the reporting month.
6.1.5
Environmental site inspection was carried out 10 times
in January 2013. Recommendations
on remedial actions were given to the Contractors for the deficiencies
identified during the site audits.
6.1.6
There were three (2) complaints (included two
(2) noise related complaints) received in December 2012 and followed up by
Environmental Team in January 2013. Investigations were carried out and the
findings and proposed mitigation measures were submitted to all relevant
parties.
6.1.7
There were three (3) complaints (included one
(1) air related complaint, one (1) noise related complaint and one (1) water
related complaint followed up by the Environmental Team in January 2013. For
the air related complaint, follow-up site inspection was conducted on 24
January 2013 (by ET) to confirm the implementation of mitigation measure for an
air complaint received by EPD on 7 January 2013. For the noise related
complaint, the noise mentioned in the
complaint was considered due to traffic noise and was not related to the noise
from construction activities. Therefore, the noise complaint was considered as
non project-related. For the water related complaint, the complaints were still
under investigation in January 2013 and the investigation result will be
reported in next Monthly EM&A Report (February 2013).
6.1.8
No notification of summons and prosecution was
received in the reporting period.
6.2
Recommendations
6.2.1
According to the
environmental site inspections performed in the reporting month, the following
recommendations were provided:-
Air Quality
Impact
l All
plants on site should be properly maintained to avoid dark smoke emission.
l All vehicles should be washed to
remove any dusty materials before leaving the site.
l Haul roads should be
sufficiently dampened to minimize fugitive dust generation.
l Wheel washing facilities should
be properly maintained to ensure properly functioning.
l Temporary exposed slopes and
open stockpiles should be properly covered.
l Enclosure should be erected for
cement mixing operations.
l Provide
water spraying to suppress fugitive dust for any dusty construction activity.
Construction
Noise Impact
l Properly erect the temporary
noise barriers in accordance with the Environmental Permit requirement.
l Noise barriers should be closely
packed and properly aligned to ensure effective noise reduction.
l Noisy operations should be
oriented to a direction away from sensitive receivers as far as possible.
l Sound insulation materials shall
be wrapped at the
breaker tip for concrete breaking works.
l Noise Emission Label (NEL) shall
be affixed to the air compressor and hand-held breaker operating within works
area.
l Better scheduling of
construction works to minimize noise nuisance.
Water Quality
Impact
l Silt, debris and leaves
accumulated at public drains, wheel washing bays and perimeter u-channels and
desilting facilities should be cleaned up regularly.
l Silty effluent should be
treated/desilted before discharged. Untreated effluent should be prevented from
entering public drain channel.
l Proper drainage channels/bunds
should be provided at the site boundaries to collect/intercept the surface
run-off from works areas.
l Exposed slopes and stockpiles
should be covered up properly during rainstorm.
l Stagnant water accumulated
within works area should be removed.
Chemical and
Waste Management
l C&D materials and wastes,
general refuse should be sorted properly and removed timely.
l All chemical containers and oil
drums should be properly stored.
l All plants and vehicles on site
should be properly maintained to prevent oil leakage.
l All drain holes of the drip
trays utilized within works areas should be properly plugged to avoid any oil
leakage.
l Oil stains on soil surface and
empty chemical containers should be cleared and disposed of as chemical waste.
Landscape and
Visual Impact
l All retained trees should be
properly fenced off at the works area.
