Contents

executive summary                                                             

1                      Introduction                                                                          

1.1                   Background                                                                           

1.2                   Baseline Monitoring for the Contract                   

1.3                   Structure of the Baseline Monitoring Report   

2                      aIR qUALITY                                                                               

2.1                   Monitoring Requirement                                                  

2.2                   Monitoring Locations                                                       

2.3                   Monitoring Equipment                                                       

2.4                   Monitoring Parameters, Frequency and Duration 

2.5                   Monitoring Methodology and Quality Assurance/ Quality Control (QA/QC)                                                                                                       

2.6                   24 Hour TSP Monitoring                                                     

2.7                   1 Hour TSP Monitoring                                                       

2.8                   Baseline Monitoring Results                                        

2.9                   Action and Limit Level                                                        

3                      nOISE                                                                                           

3.1                   Monitoring Requirement                                                  

3.2                   Monitoring Locations                                                       

3.3                   Monitoring Equipment                                                       

3.4                   Monitoring Parameters, Frequency and Duration 

3.5                   Monitoring Methodology                                               

3.6                   Maintenance and Calibration                                       

3.7                   Baseline Monitoring Results                                        

3.8                   Action and Limit Levels                                                     

4                      Water quality                                                                        

4.1                   Monitoring Locations                                                       

4.2                   Monitoring Parameters and Frequency                 

4.3                   Monitoring Methodology                                               

4.4                   QA/QC Requirements                                                           

4.5                   Baseline Monitoring Results                                        

4.6                   Action and Limit Levels                                                     

5                      Ecology                                                                                    

5.1                   Baseline Walk-over Survey                                           

5.2                   Baseline Dolphin Monitoring                                        

5.3                   Baseline Bored Pilling Monitoring                            

6                      Conclusion                                                                             


 

LIST OF TABLES

 

Table 1

Baseline Air Quality Monitoring Period

Table 2

Baseline Noise Monitoring Period

Table 3

Baseline Water Quality Monitoring Period

Table 4

Baseline Dolphin Monitoring Period

Table 2.1

Air Quality Monitoring Equipment

Table 2.2

Frequency and Parameters of Air Quality Monitoring

Table 2.3

Summary of Baseline 1-hour TSP Monitoring Results

Table 2.4

Summary of Baseline 24-hour TSP Monitoring Results

Table 2.5

Guidelines for Establishing Action and Limit Levels for Air Quality

Table 2.6

Action and Limit Levels for 1-hour TSP

Table 2.7

Action and Limit Levels for 24-hour TSP

Table 3.1

Frequency and Parameters of Noise Monitoring

Table 3.2

Summary of Daytime Noise Monitoring Results (Normal Weekdays)

Table 3.3

Summary of Evening-Time & Daytime (Holidays) Noise Monitoring Results

Table 3.4

Summary of Night-Time Noise Monitoring Results

Table 3.5

Action Limit Levels for Noise during Construction Period

Table 4.1

Marine Water Quality Monitoring Locations

Table 4.2

Water Quality Monitoring Parameters and Frequency

Table 4.3

Water Quality Monitoring Equipment

Table 4.4

Methods for Laboratory Analysis for Water Samples

Table 4.5

Action and Limit Levels for Water Quality

Table 4.6

Action and Limit Levels for Water Quality

Table 5.1

Types of Habitats observed in Walk-over Survey

Table 5.2

Date of Baseline Dolphin Monitoring

Table 5.3

Dolphin Encounter Rates (Sightings Per 100 km of Survey Effort) during the Baseline Monitoring Period (September ¡V November 2011)

Table 5.4

Action Level and Limit Level for Dolphin Impact Monitoring

Table 5.5

Derived Value of Action Level (AL) and Limit Level (LL)

Table 5.6

Implementation of Event-Action Plan

Table 5.7

Values of the two response variables of dolphin acoustic behaviour collected by calibrated hydrophone (mean clicks and whistles per minutes) by size of group, behavioural state and time of day during baseline period

Table 5.8

Action Level (AL) and Limit Level (LL) for all response variables by size of group, behavioural state and time of day

Table 5.9

Event and Action Plan on Dolphin Acoustic Behaviour

                                            

LIST OF FIGURES

 

Figure 1.1        Contract Layout and Location of Monitoring Stations

Figure 5.1        Updated Habitat Map after Walk Over Survey

Figure 5.2        Layout of Transect Lines of Dolphin Monitoring in Northwest and Northeast Lantau Areas

Figure 5.3        Location of Pak Mong Station in NE Lantau with alignment of TM-CLKL southern connection viaduct

Figure 5.4        Fix positions of vessels (green dots) and dolphins (purple triangle) from Pak Mong Theodolite Tracking Station in relation to TM-CLKL alignment and HKBCF/HKLR reclamation sites in Sep 9th ¡V Oct 14th 2013

Figure 5.5        Track lines of the only dolphin group that was tracked and analyzed for movement and behavioural patterns in the present study

Figure 5.6        Distribution of Chinese white dolphin sightings in Northeast Lantau during January 2002 ¡V December 2013

Figure 5.7        Distribution of Chinese white dolphin sightings during TM-CLKL acoustic surveys (Sep 26th ¡V Oct 25th 2013)

Figure 5.8        Location of the bored pile pier sites to be monitored for the underwater noise measurement study of TM-CLKL construction

Figure 5.9        Mean bandlevels for the 122 recordings containing dolphin vocalizations

Figure 5.10      Mean bandlevels for all 440 recordings as a function of time of day

Figure 5.11      Map showing the tentative location of EAR deployments, pier sites to be monitored as well as pre-defined route for dolphin acoustic behavioural study

Figure 5.12      The summed length of recordings in minutes made for each day of observational effort during the baseline acoustic monitoring in September ¡V October 2013

Figure 5.13      Mean number of whistles per minute and clicks per minute recorded as a function of dolphin behavioural state

Figure 5.14     Histogram of the percentage of EAR recordings with dolphin detections made at site C1 (Bridge Alignment Area) during 30 days of the deployment period

Figure 5.15     The number of dolphin encounters and the mean encounter duration for each day recorded on the EAR at site C1 (Bridge Alignment Area)

Figure 5.16      Histogram of the percentage of EAR recordings at site C2 (near Lung Kwu Chau), with dolphin detections made during 30 days of the deployment period

Figure 5.17      The number of dolphin encounters and the mean encounter duration for each day recorded on the EAR at site C2 (near Lung Kwu Chau)



LIST OF APPENDICES

 

Annex A1        Calibration Certificate for Air Quality Monitoring Equipment

Annex A2        1-hour TSP Baseline Monitoring Results

Annex A3        Graphical Presentation of Baseline 1-hour TSP Levels

Annex A4        24-hour TSP Baseline Monitoring Results

Annex A5        Graphical Presentation of Baseline 24-hour TSP Levels

Annex B1        Copies of Calibration Certificates for Noise Monitoring Equipment

Annex B2        Day-time 07:00-19:00 hrs Baseline Noise Monitoring Data

Annex B3        Evening-time 19:00-23:00 hrs and Holidays 07:00-19:00hrs Baseline Noise Monitoring Data

Annex B4        Night-time 23:00-07:00 hrs of the next day Baseline Noise Monitoring Data

Annex B5        Graphical Presentation of Baseline Noise Levels

Annex C1       Copies of Calibration Certificates for Water Quality Monitoring Equipment

Annex C2       Quality Control Report for Laboratory Analysis

Annex C3       Baseline Water Quality Monitoring Results

Annex C4       Graphical Presentation of Baseline Water Quality Monitoring Data

Annex D         Baseline Dolphin Monitoring Report Prepared by Chinese White Dolphin (CWD) Service Contract No. HY/11/02

Annex E          Baseline Air Quality, Noise and Water Quality Monitoring Schedule 

Annex F          Weather Conditions during Baseline Monitoring Period

Annex G         Baseline Monitoring Report for Land-based Dolphin Behavioural and Movement Monitoring

Annex H         Baseline Monitoring Report for Underwater Noise and Dolphin Acoustic Behavioural Monitoring

 

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Under Contract No. HY/2012/07, Gammon Construction Limited is commissioned by the Highways Department (HyD) to undertake the design and construction of the Southern Connection Viaduct Section of Tuen Mun ¡V Chek Lap Kok Link (TM-CLKL) (¡§the Contract¡¨).  ERM-Hong Kong, Limited (ERM) has been appointed as the Environmental Team (ET) for the Contract.

According to the requirements of the Environmental Monitoring and Audit Manual (EM&A Manual) which is prepared for the TM-CLKL Project (Register No.: AEIAR- 146/2009), baseline monitoring has been undertaken prior to commencement of the construction works of the Contract.  This Baseline Monitoring Report presents findings of the following baseline monitoring components:

Ÿ  Air Quality;

Ÿ  Noise;

Ÿ  Water Quality; and

Ÿ  Ecology (including baseline walk-over survey, baseline dolphin monitoring and baseline bored piling monitoring).

Before the commencement of the Contract, HyD employed environmental specialists under Agreement No. CE35/2011 (EP) and Contract No. HY/2011/02 to conduct baseline environmental monitoring of air quality, noise, water quality and ecology to facilitate early commencement of construction of Hong Kong Boundary Crossing Facility (HKBCF) reclamation works and TM-CLKL advance Southern Landfall reclamation works under Contract No. HY/2010/02.  The baseline environmental monitoring was undertaken between September and November 2011 in accordance with requirements in the EM&A Manuals for the Hong Kong Link Road (HKLR), HKBCF and TM-CLKL.  A Baseline Environmental Monitoring Report (Version C) for Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge Hong Kong Projects ¡V Investigation (hereafter referred to as ¡§BEMR¡¨) was prepared to fulfill the Environmental Permits¡¦ conditions for HKBCF (including TM-CLKL southern landfall) Project ([1]).

 

In the present baseline monitoring report, relevant baseline monitoring results for air quality, noise, water quality and ecology (baseline dolphin monitoring) presented in the BEMR have been adopted for this Contract.  In addition, baseline water quality monitoring, baseline bored piling monitoring and baseline walk-over survey have been undertaken in the period of August to October 2013 to collect additional baseline monitoring data for the Contract which were not covered by the 2011 baseline monitoring.

 

The baseline monitoring works undertaken for air quality, noise, water quality and ecology for the Contract are presented in Tables 1-4 below.

Air Quality

Table 1           Baseline Air Quality Monitoring Period

Monitoring Stations

Baseline Monitoring Period

ASR 9A ¡V Siu Ho Wan MTRC Depot

18/10/2011 ¡V 31/10/2011

ASR 9C ¡V Siu Ho Wan MTRC Depot

During the monitoring, there was no major dust generating activities undertaken in the vicinity of the two monitoring stations (Table 1).  Data collected were reviewed and analyzed to determine the Action and Limit Levels for air quality which will be used for the impact monitoring throughout the construction of the Contract.  Details on the monitoring methodology, locations and results are presented in Section 2.

 

Noise

 

Table 2            Baseline Noise Monitoring Period

 

Monitoring Station

Baseline Monitoring Period

NSR 1 ¡V Pak Mong Village

18/10/2011-1/11/2011

Monitoring data collected was reviewed and analyzed in accordance with requirements of the EM&A Manual.  Details on the methodology, locations and results of monitoring are presented in Section 3 of this report.  The baseline noise monitoring data was analyzed for the following periods:

¡P      Daytime:            0700-1900 hrs on normal weekdays

¡P      Evening-time:     1900-2300 hrs

¡P      Holiday-time:      0700-1900 hrs on holidays

¡P      Night-time:           2300-0700 hrs of next day

Water Quality

Table 3           Baseline Water Quality Monitoring Period   

Monitoring Stations

Parameters, unit

Baseline Monitoring Period (1)

IS(Mf)9, IS(Mf)16, IS8, SR4, CS(Mf)3, CS(Mf)5

Ÿ  Temperature(¢XC)

Ÿ  pH(pH unit)

Ÿ  Turbidity (NTU)

Ÿ  Water depth (m)

Ÿ  Salinity (ppt)

Ÿ  Dissolved Oxygen (DO) (mg/L and % of saturation)

Ÿ  Suspended solids (SS) (mg/L)

6/10/2011 ¡V 31/10/2011

SR4a (2)

29/8/2013 ¡V 24/9/2013

Notes:

(1)    3 days per week, at mid-flood and mid-ebb tides, for a period of 4 weeks prior to the commencement of the marine works)

(2)   Additional baseline water quality monitoring was undertaken at SR4a for this Contract as per recommendation of the Environmental Review for the Temporary Staging for Construction of the Southern Connection (ERM, 2013).

 

Details of the baseline water quality monitoring are presented in Section 4.  The collected data were used to establish the Action and Limit Levels for Dissolved Oxygen (DO), Turbidity and Suspended Solids (SS) for the impact monitoring throughout the construction of the Contract.

 

Ecology

 

Baseline walk-over survey was undertaken on 13 and 24 September 2013 to confirm the existing ecological conditions before commencement of the Contract¡¦s construction works with reference to the habitat maps presented in the EIA Report.  Findings of the baseline walk-over survey are presented in Section 5.1.

Table 4          Baseline Dolphin Monitoring Period

Date of Baseline Dolphin Monitoring

1

05/09/2011

2

07/09/2011

3

16/09/2011

4

23/09/2011

5

06/10/2011

6

10/10/2011

7

13/10/2011

8

17/10/2011

9

28/10/2011

10

01/11/2011

11

02/11/2011

12

05/11/2011

13

06/11/2011

14

07/11/2011

 

Baseline dolphin monitoring was undertaken from September to November 2011.  Details on the monitoring methodology, locations and findings are presented in Section 5.2.  Determination of Action and Limit Levels for dolphin monitoring is also presented under the same section.

 

Baseline bored piling monitoring, including land-based theodolite tracking, underwater noise monitoring and acoustic behavioural monitoring, were undertaken from September to October 2013.  Details on the monitoring methodology, locations and findings are presented in Section 5.3.  Determination of Action and Limit Levels as well as the Event Action Plan for the bored piling monitoring is also presented under the same section.


1                                             Introduction

1.1                                      Background

According to the findings of the Northwest New Territories (NWNT) Traffic and Infrastructure Review conducted by the Transport Department, Tuen Mun Road, Ting Kau Bridge, Lantau Link and North Lantau Highway would be operating beyond capacity after 2016.  This forecast has been based on the estimated increase in cross boundary traffic, developments in the Northwest New Territories (NWNT), and possible developments in North Lantau, including the Airport developments, the Lantau Logistics Park (LLP) and the Hong Kong ¡V Zhuhai ¡V Macao Bridge (HZMB).  In order to cope with the anticipated traffic demand, two new road sections between NWNT and North Lantau ¡V Tuen Mun ¡V Chek Lap Kok Link (TM-CLKL) and Tuen Mun Western Bypass (TMWB) are proposed.

An Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) of TM-CLKL was prepared in accordance with the EIA Study Brief (No. ESB-175/2007) and the Technical Memorandum of the Environmental Impact Assessment Process (EIAO-TM).  The EIA Report was submitted under the Environmental Impact Assessment Ordinance (EIAO) in August 2009.  Subsequent to the approval of the EIA Report (EIAO Register Number AEIAR-145/2009), an Environmental Permit (EP-354/2009) for TM-CLKL was granted by the Director of Environmental Protection (DEP) on 4 November 2009, and EP variation (EP-354/2009A) was issued on 8 December 2010. 

Under Contract No. HY/2012/07, Gammon Construction Limited is commissioned by the Highways Department (HyD) to undertake the design and construction of the Southern Connection Viaduct Section of TM-CLKL (¡§the Contract¡¨), including the following:

¡P      A dual 2-lane main marine crossing (Structures E2, E5, E6, E7 and E8) across the sea between the southern landfall of TM-CLKL and NLH;

¡P      Five link or slip roads (Structures F1, F2, F3, F4 and F5) at the southern landfall of TM-CLKL connecting a dual 2-lane rural trunk road (main marine crossing) in (i) above with the HKBCF and the TM-CLKL Northern Connection Sub-sea Tunnel Section;

¡P      Four link roads (Structures E1, A1, A2, B1, B2, B3,C1, C2, C3, C4, D1, D2, D3 and D4) at North Lantau connecting the main marine crossing in (i) above with the NLH ;

¡P      Associated civil, structural, geotechnical, marine, environmental protection, landscaping, drainage, highway electrical and mechanical (E&M) works, street lightings, traffic aids and sign gantries, marine navigational aids, ship impact protection system, water mains and fire hydrants, lightning protection system, SHMS, as well as operation and maintenance provisions of viaducts, provisioning of facilities for installation of TCSS, provisioning of facilities for installation of telecommunication cables/equipment and reprovisioning works of affected existing facilities/utilities; and

¡P      Incidental works thereto the above and other associated works which are shown on the Drawings or specified in the Contract.

Layout of the Contract components is presented in Figure 1.1. 

ERM-Hong Kong, Limited (ERM) has been appointed as the Environmental Team (ET) for the Contract.

1.2                                      Baseline Monitoring for the Contract

The scope of the EM&A programme follows the demarcation of monitoring responsibilities set out in Environmental Project Office¡¦s letter dated 29.10.2013.  Under the defined scope and according to relevant requirements of the Environmental Monitoring and Audit Manual (EM&A Manual) which is prepared for the TM-CLKL Project (Register No.: AEIAR- 146/2009), baseline monitoring has been undertaken prior to commencement of the construction works of the Contract.  This Baseline Monitoring Report presents findings of the following baseline monitoring components:

Ÿ  Air Quality;

Ÿ  Noise;

Ÿ  Water Quality; and

Ÿ  Ecology (including baseline walk-over survey, baseline dolphin monitoring and baseline bored piling monitoring).

 

Before the commencement of the Contract, HyD employed environmental specialists under Agreement No. CE35/2011 (EP) and Contract No. HY/2011/02 to conduct baseline environmental monitoring of air quality, noise, water quality and ecology to facilitate early commencement of construction of Hong Kong Boundary Crossing Facility (HKBCF) reclamation works and TM-CLKL advance Southern Landfall reclamation works under Contract No. HY/2010/02.  The baseline environmental monitoring was undertaken between September and November 2011 in accordance with requirements in the EM&A Manuals for the Hong Kong Link Road (HKLR), HKBCF and TM-CLKL.  A Baseline Environmental Monitoring Report (Version C) for Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge Hong Kong Projects ¡V Investigation (hereafter referred to as ¡§BEMR¡¨) was prepared to fulfil the Environmental Permits¡¦ conditions for HKBCF (including TM-CLKL southern landfall) Project ([2]).

In the present baseline monitoring report, relevant baseline monitoring results for air quality, noise, water quality and ecology (baseline dolphin monitoring) presented in the BEMR have been adopted for this Contract.  In addition, baseline water quality monitoring, baseline bored piling monitoring and baseline walk-over survey have been undertaken in the period of August to October 2013 to collect additional baseline monitoring data for the Contract which were not covered by the 2011 baseline monitoring.  Based on findings from the 2011 and 2013 baseline monitoring, baseline levels for air quality, noise, water quality and ecology are set out in this report for the Contract in accordance with the EM&A Manual.  These baseline levels will be used as the basis for compliance check during the impact monitoring in the construction of the TM-CLKL southern viaduct.  Locations, schedule, methodology and results for the baseline monitoring are also presented in this report.

1.3                                      Structure of the Baseline Monitoring Report

Following this introductory section, the remainder of the Report is structured as follows:

Section 2    Air Quality ¡V presents the methodology and findings of the baseline air quality monitoring.

Section 3    Noise ¡V presents the methodology and findings of the baseline noise monitoring.

Section 4    Water Quality ¡V presents the methodology and findings of the baseline water quality monitoring.

Section 5    Ecology ¡V presents the methodology and findings of the baseline walk-over survey, baseline dolphin monitoring as well as baseline bored piling monitoring programme.

Section 6    Conclusion

2                                             aIR qUALITY

2.1                                      Monitoring Requirement

According to the EM&A Manual of the TM-CLKL Project, baseline air quality monitoring should be carried out for a period of not less than 14 days to collect baseline data on 1-hour and 24-hour Total Suspended Particulates (TSP) levels at all monitoring locations.  Monitoring of 1-hour TSP should be carried out at least three times per day while that of 24-hour TSP should be conducted daily for 14 consecutive days.  Further details of the baseline air quality monitoring are presented in the following sections.

2.2                                      Monitoring Locations

Baseline air quality monitoring was conducted at two (2) monitoring stations (ie ASR9A and ASR9C ¡V Siu Ho Wan MTRC Depot) under this Contract.  Locations of the two monitoring stations, ASR9A and ASR9C, are shown in Figure 1.1. 

2.3                                      Monitoring Equipment

High Volume Samplers (HVS) were used to carry out the 24-hour TSP monitoring.  Direct reading dust meter was used to measure 1-hour average TSP levels.  The 1-hour TSP level was determined periodically by HVS to check the validity and accuracy of the results measured by the direct reading method.

 

Wind data monitoring equipment was set at Rooftop of Village Office at San Tau for logging wind speed and wind direction such that the wind sensors are clear of obstructions or turbulence caused by building.  The wind data monitoring equipment is recalibrated at least once every six months.  

 

Table 2.1 summarizes the equipment used in the baseline air quality monitoring programme.  Copies of the calibration certificates for the equipment are presented in Annex A1.

Table 2.1        Air Quality Monitoring Equipment

Equipment

Model and Make

Quantity

HVS Sampler

 

GMWS 2310 c/w of TSP sampling inlet

9

Calibrator

 

G25A

1

1-hour TSP Dust Meter

 

Laser Dust Monitor ¡V Model LD3/3B

7

Wind Anemometer

Davis Weather Monitor II, Model no. 7440

1

2.4                                      Monitoring Parameters, Frequency and Duration

Table 2.2 summarizes the monitoring parameters, monitoring period and frequency of baseline air quality monitoring.

Table 2.2        Frequency and Parameters of Air Quality Monitoring

Monitoring Station

Location for Measurement

Parameter

Period

Frequency

ASR 9A

Near Security Office of Siu Ho Wan MTRC Depot

 

1-hour TSP


24-hour TSP

0700-1900 for 1-hour TSP


24 hours for 24-hour TSP

 

3 times/ day for 1-hour TSP


Daily for 24-hour TSP

ASR 9C

Near Staff Canteen of Siu Ho Wan MTRC Depot

2.5                                      Monitoring Methodology and Quality Assurance/ Quality Control (QA/QC)

Weather data was recorded during the baseline period and is shown in Annex F.  The air temperature, precipitation and the relative humidity data were obtained from Hong Kong Observatory while wind speed and direction were recorded by the installed Wind Anemometer.  The general weather conditions (i.e. sunny, cloudy or rainy) were recorded by the field staff on the monitoring days.

2.6                                      24 Hour TSP Monitoring

Instrumentation

High volume Samplers (HVS) completed with appropriate sampling inlets was employed for air quality monitoring.  Each sampler was composed of a motor, a filter holder, a flow controller and a sampling inlet and its performance specification complies with that required by USEPA Standard Title 40, Code of Federation Regulations Chapter 1 (Part 50).

HVS Installation

The following guidelines were adopted during the installation of HVS:

    Sufficient support was provided to secure the samplers against gusty wind;

    No two samplers were placed less than 2 m apart;

    The distance between the sampler and an obstacle, such as buildings, was at least twice the height that the obstacle protrudes above the sampler;

    A minimum of 2 m of separation from walls, parapets and penthouses was required for rooftop samples;

    A minimum of 2 m separation from any supporting structure, measured horizontally, was required;

    No furnaces or incineration flues were nearby;

    Airflow around the sampler was unrestricted;

    The samplers were more than 20 meters from the drip line; and

    Any wire fence and gate used to protect the sampler should not cause any obstruction during monitoring.

Filter Preparation

Fiberglass filters were used.  These filters have a collection efficiency of larger than 99% for particles of 0.3µm in diameter.  A HOKLAS accredited laboratory, Wellab Ltd., was responsible for the preparation of 24-hr conditioned and pre-weighed filter papers for the monitoring.

All filters were equilibrated in the conditioning environment for 24 hours before weighing.  The conditioning environment temperature was around 25 ¢XC and not varied by more than ¡Ó3 ¢XC; the relative humidity (RH) was <50% and not varied by more than ¡Ó5%.  

Operating/ Analytical Procedures

Operating/analytical procedures for the air quality monitoring were highlighted as follows:

Ÿ   Prior to the commencement of the dust sampling, the flow rate of the HVS was properly set (between 1.1 m3/min. and 1.4 m3/min.) in accordance with the manufacturer's instruction to within the range recommended in USEPA Standard Title 40, CFR Part 50.

Ÿ   The power supply was checked to ensure the sampler worked properly.

Ÿ   On sampling, the sampler was operated for 5 minutes to establish thermal equilibrium before placing any filter media at the designated air quality monitoring station.

Ÿ   The filter holding frame was then removed by loosening the four nuts and carefully a weighted and conditioned filter was centered with the stamped number upwards, on a supporting screen.

Ÿ   The filter was aligned on the screen so that the gasket formed an airtight seal on the outer edges of the filter.  Then the filter holding frame was tightened to the filter holder with swing bolts.  The applied pressure should be sufficient to avoid air leakage at the edges.

Ÿ   The shelter lid was closed and secured with the aluminum strip.

Ÿ   The timer was then programmed.  Information was recorded on the record sheet, which included the starting time, the weather condition and the filter number (the initial weight of the filter paper can be found out by using the filter number).

Ÿ   After sampling, the filter was removed and sent to the laboratory for weighing.  The elapsed time was also recorded.

Ÿ   Before weighing, all filters were equilibrated in a conditioning environment for 24 hours. The conditioning environment temperature should be between 25¢XC and 30¢XC and not vary by more than ¡Ó3¢XC; the RH should be < 50% and not vary by more than ¡Ó5%.  Weighing results were used for further analysis of TSP concentrations collected by each filter.

Maintenance and Calibration

The following maintenance/calibration was required for the HVS:

Ÿ   The high volume motors and their accessories were properly maintained. Appropriate maintenance such as routine motor brushes replacement and electrical wiring checking were made to ensure that the equipment and necessary power supply were in good working condition.

Ÿ   All HVS were calibrated (five point calibration) using Calibration Kit prior to the commencement of the baseline monitoring and thereafter at bi-monthly intervals.

2.7                                      1 Hour TSP Monitoring

Measuring Procedures

The 1-hour TSP levels were measured by the dust meter in accordance with procedures specified in the Manufacturer¡¦s Instruction Manual which are described as follows:

Ÿ   The 1-hour dust meter was placed at least 1.3 m above ground.

Ÿ   Set POWER to ¡§ON¡¨ and make sure that the battery level was not flash or in low level.

Ÿ   Allow the instrument to stand for about three (3) minutes with the cap of the air sampling inlet released.

Ÿ   Pushed the knob at MEASURE position.

Ÿ   Set time/mode setting to [BG] by pushing the time setting switch.  Then, started the background measurement by pushing the start/stop switch once.  It took approximately six (6) seconds to complete the background measurement.

Ÿ   Pushed the time setting switch to change the time setting display to [MANUAL] at the bottom left of the liquid crystal display.  Finally, pushed the start/stop switch to stop the measuring after 1 hour sampling.

Ÿ   Information such as sampling date, time, count value and site condition were recorded during the monitoring period.

Maintenance and Calibration

For the 1-hour dust meter, it should be checked and calibrated by HVS to determine the validity and accuracy of the results measured by direct reading method at 2-month intervals throughout the air quality monitoring period.

2.8                                      Baseline Monitoring Results

Under this Contract, baseline air quality monitoring was conducted at two (2) monitoring stations, namely ASR 9A and ASR 9C, at the Siu Ho Wan MTRC Depot during the period of 18 October and 2 November 2011.  The detailed monitoring schedule is presented in Annex E.

The monitoring data of ASR 9A and ASR 9C are summarized in Tables 2.3 and 2.4.  All monitoring data of 1- hour and 24-hour TSP are presented in Annexes A2 and A4, respectively.  Graphical presentations of the 1-hour TSP and 24-hour TSP results are shown in Annex A3 and A5, respectively.  Detailed weather conditions during the baseline monitoring period are presented in Annex F.

Table 2.3        Summary of Baseline 1-hour TSP Monitoring Results

Monitoring Station

Average TSP Concentration (µg/m3)
(Range)

ASR 9A ¡V Siu Ho Wan MTRC Depot

222.3
(71.2-463.6)

 

ASR 9C ¡V Siu Ho Wan MTRC Depot

219.9
(70.2-461.8)

Table 2.4        Summary of Baseline 24-hour TSP Monitoring Results

Monitoring Station

Average TSP Concentration (µg/m3)
(Range)

ASR 9A ¡V Siu Ho Wan MTRC Depot

74.1
(38.6-128.1)

 

ASR 9C ¡V Siu Ho Wan MTRC Depot

74.5
(45.1-113.4)

The weather was generally sunny and fine during the baseline monitoring period.  Road traffic dust is identified as the influencing factors which may affect the results of baseline monitoring.

2.9                                      Action and Limit Level

Guidelines for establishing the Action and Limit Levels for air quality monitoring during the construction of the Contract are presented in Table 2.5.

Table 2.5        Guidelines for Establishing Action and Limit Levels for Air Quality

Parameters

Action Level

Limit Level

1-hour TSP Level in µg/m3

For baseline level 384 µg/m3,
Action level = (Baseline level*1.3 + Limit level)/2
For baseline level > 384
µg/m3,
Action level = Limit level

 

500

24-hour TSP Level in µg/m3

For baseline level 200 µg/m3,
Action level = (Baseline level*1.3 + Limit level)/2
For baseline level > 200
µg/m3,
Action level = Limit level

260

Following the above guidelines, the Action and Limit Levels for air quality impact monitoring are determined and presented in Tables 2.6 and 2.7.

Table 2.6        Action and Limit Levels for 1-hour TSP

Location

Action Level, µg/m3

Limit Level, µg/m3

ASR 9A

394

500

ASR 9C

393

 

Table 2.7        Action and Limit Levels for 24-hour TSP

Location

Action Level, µg/m3

Limit Level, µg/m3

ASR 9A

178

260

ASR 9C

Should non-compliance with the air quality criteria occur, the ET, the IEC and the SOR and the Contractor shall undertake their specified actions in accordance with the Action Plan shown in Table 3.2.

 


Table 2.8        Event/ Action Plan for Air Quality

 

 

ACTION

EVENT

ET (1)

IEC (1)

SOR(1)

Contractor

Action Level

 

 

 

 

1. Exceedance for one sample

1.  Identify the source.

2.  Inform the IEC and the SOR.

3.  Repeat measurement to confirm finding.

4.  Increase monitoring frequency to daily.

1.  Check monitoring data submitted by the ET.

2.  Check Contractor¡¦s working method.

1.  Notify Contractor.

1. Rectify any unacceptable practice

2.  Amend working methods if appropriate

2. Exceedance for two or more consecutive samples

1. Identify the source.

2. Inform the IEC and the SOR.

3. Repeat measurements to confirm findings.

4. Increase monitoring frequency to daily.

5. Discuss with the IEC and the Contractor on remedial actions required.

6. If exceedance continues, arrange meeting with the IEC and the SOR.

7. If exceedance stops, cease additional monitoring.

1.  Check monitoring data submitted by the ET.

2.  Check the Contractor¡¦s working method.

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

4.  Advise the SOR on the effectiveness of the proposed remedial measures.

5.  Supervisor implementation of remedial measures.

1.  Confirm receipt of notification of failure in writing.

2.  Notify the Contractor.

3.  Ensure remedial measures properly implemented.

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

2.  Implement the agreed proposals

3.  Amend proposal if appropriate

 


 

3                                             nOISE

3.1                                      Monitoring Requirement

According to the EM&A Manual of TM-CLKL, baseline noise monitoring should be carried out for a period of fourteen (14) days at all designated monitoring locations.  The noise levels should be measured in terms of A-weighted equivalent continuous sound pressure level (Leq).  Details of the baseline noise monitoring are presented in the following sections.

3.2                                      Monitoring Locations

Baseline noise monitoring was conducted at one (1) monitoring station, namely NSR 1 at Pak Mong Village, under the Contract (Figure 1.1). 

3.3                                      Monitoring Equipment

Integrating Sound Level Meter was used for noise monitoring.  The meter is a Type 1 sound level meter capable of giving a continuous readout of the noise level readings including equivalent continuous sound pressure level (Leq) and percentile sound pressure level (Lx).  The meter used also complied with International Electrotechnical Commission Publications 651:1979 (Type 1) and 804:1985 (Type 1) specifications.  The noise monitoring equipment being used and copies of the calibration certificates for the sound level meter and calibrator are presented in Annex B1.

3.4                                      Monitoring Parameters, Frequency and Duration

In accordance with the EM&A Manual, baseline noise for the A-weighted levels Leq, L10 and L90 was recorded.  Data obtained from the baseline noise monitoring were processed and presented for the following periods:

 

¡P            Daytime: 0700-1900 hrs on normal weekdays

¡P            Evening time: 1900-2300 hrs

¡P            Holiday time: 0700-1900 hrs on holidays

¡P            Night time: 2300-0700 hrs of next day

 

The frequency and parameters of noise measurement are presented in Table 3.1.

 

Table 3.1        Frequency and Parameters of Noise Monitoring

Monitoring Station

Location for Measurement

Time Period

Duration, min

Parameter

NSR 1

Pak Mong Village (Roof Top of Pak Mong Watch Tower)

Daytime on normal weekdays (0700-1900 hrs)


Evening time on all days (1900-2300 hrs) and daytime during holidays (including Sundays) (0700-1900 hrs)

 

Night time on all days (2300-0700 hrs)

30 min


5min

Leq, L10 & L90

3.5                                      Monitoring Methodology

Façade measurement was taken at the monitoring station NSR1.  Weather data was recorded during the baseline period and is presented in Annex F.  The air temperature, precipitation and the relative humidity data were obtained from Hong Kong Observatory where the wind speed and direction were recorded by the installed Wind Anemometer.  The general weather conditions (i.e. sunny, cloudy or rainy) were recorded by the field staff on the monitoring days.

The monitoring procedures are as follows:

Ÿ   The microphone head of the head level meter was normally positioned 1 m exterior of the noise sensitive façade and lowered sufficiently so that the building¡¦s external wall acts as a reflecting surface.

Ÿ   For free field measurement, the meter was positioned away from any nearby reflective surfaces.  All records for free field noise levels would be adjusted with a correction of +3 dB(A). 

Ÿ   The battery condition was checked to ensure good functioning of the meter.

Ÿ   Parameters such as frequency weighting, time weighting and measurement time were set as follows:

-   frequency weighting:    A

-   time weighting:              Fast

-   measurement time:       5 minutes (Leq (30-min) would be determined for daytime noise by calculating the logarithmic average of six Leq (5min) data.)

Ÿ   Prior to and after noise measurement, the meter was calibrated using the calibrator for 94.0 dB at 1,000 Hz.  If the difference in the calibration level before and after measurement was more than 1.0 dB, the measurement was considered invalid and repeat of noise measurement was required after re-calibration or repair of the equipment.

Ÿ   Noise monitoring was carried out continuously for 24 hours during the 14 days baseline monitoring period.  Monitoring data were recorded and stored automatically within the sound level meter system.  At the end of the monitoring period, noise levels in term of Leq, L90 and L10 were recorded.  In addition, site conditions and noise sources were recorded when the equipment were checked and inspected every two days.

Ÿ   All the monitoring data stored in the sound level meter system were downloaded through the computer software, and all these data were checked and reviewed on computer.

3.6                                      Maintenance and Calibration

Maintenance and calibration procedures were follows:

Ÿ   The microphone head of the sound level meter and calibrator were cleaned with a soft cloth at quarterly intervals;

Ÿ   The sound level meter and calibrator were checked and calibrated at yearly intervals; and

Ÿ   Immediately prior to and following each noise measurement, the accuracy of the sound level meter should be checked using an acoustic calibrator generating known sound pressure level at known frequency.  Measurements may be accepted as valid only if the calibration levels from before and after the noise measurement agree to within 1.0 dB.

3.7                                      Baseline Monitoring Results

Baseline noise monitoring was conducted at the noise monitoring station NSR1 in the period of 18 October and 1 November 2011 for this Contract.  The monitoring schedule is shown in Annex E.

The baseline noise monitoring results are summarized in Tables 3.2 to 3.4.  All baseline noise monitoring results are presented in Annexes B2-B4.  Graphical presentations of the data are provided in Annex B5.  Weather conditions recorded during the baseline monitoring period are shown in Annex F.

Table 3.2        Summary of Daytime Noise Monitoring Results (Normal Weekdays)

Daytime

0700-1900 hrs on

normal weekdays

Range of Noise Level, dB(A)

Leq (30 min)

L10 (5 min)

L90 (5 min)

Mean

Max

Min

Mean

Max

Min

Mean

Max

Min

NSR 1

56.2

65.9

48.4

58.4

75.4

42.7

46.5

59.9

38.8

 

Table 3.3        Summary of Evening-Time & Daytime (Holidays) Noise Monitoring Results

Evening-time

1900-2300 hrs on all days & Daytime 0700-1900 hrs on holidays

Range of Noise Level, dB(A)

Leq (30 min)

L10 (5 min)

L90 (5 min)

Mean

Max

Min

Mean

Max

Min

Mean

Max

Min

NSR 1

54.7

68.0

41.4

58.1

72.1

42.7

45.5

59.6

39.1

Table 3.4        Summary of Night-Time Noise Monitoring Results

Night-time 2300-0700 hrs of the next day

Range of Noise Level, dB(A)

Leq (30 min)

L10 (5 min)

L90 (5 min)

Mean

Max

Min

Mean

Max

Min

Mean

Max

Min

NSR 1

50.1

69.1

37.0

53.0

73.6

38.4

42.2

52.0

35.2

The weather was generally sunny and fine during the baseline monitoring periods.  Insect and bird calling was noted as the influencing factors which may affect the baseline monitoring results.  

3.8                                      Action and Limit Levels

The Action and Limit Levels were established in accordance with the EM&A Manual.  The baseline noise level should be referenced during the compliance check during the impact noise monitoring period.  Table 3.5 presents the Action and Limit Levels for construction noise of the Contract.  Should non-compliance of the criteria occur, the ET, the IEC, the SOR and the Contractor shall undertake their specified actions in accordance with the Action Plan shown in Table 3.6.  

 

Table 3.5        Action Limit Levels for Noise during Construction Period

Time Period

Action Level

Limit Level

0700-1900 hrs on normal weekdays

When one documented complaint is received

75* dB(A)


Table 3.6        Event/ Action Plan for Construction Noise

 

 

ACTION

EVENT

ET

IEC

SOR

Contractor

Action Level

1.   Notify the IEC and the Contractor.

2.   Carry out investigation.

3.   Report the results of investigation to the IEC and the Contractor.

4.   Discuss with the Contractor and formulate remedial measures.

5.   Increase monitoring frequency to check mitigation effectiveness.

1. Review the analysed  results submitted by the ET.

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

3. Supervise the implementation of remedial measures.

1. Confirm receipt of notification of failure in writing.

2. Notify the Contractor.

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

4. Ensure remedial measures are properly implemented.

1. Submit noise mitigation proposals to IEC

2. Implement noise mitigation proposals

Limit Level

1. Notify the IEC, the SOR, the DEP and the Contractor.

2. Identify the source.

3.  Repeat measurement to confirm findings.

4. Increase monitoring frequency.

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

6.  Inform the IEC, the SOR and the DEP the causes & actions taken for the exceedances.

7. Assess effectiveness of the Contractor¡¦s remedial actions and keep the IEC, the DEP and the SOR informed of the results.

8. If exceedance stops, cease additional monitoring.

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

2. Review the Contractor¡¦s remedial actions whenever necessary to assure their effectiveness and advise the SOR accordingly.

3. Supervise the implementation of remedial measures.

1. Confirm receipt of notification of failure in writing.

2. Notify the Contractor.

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

4. Ensure remedial measures are properly implemented.

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

1. Take immediate action to avoid further exceedance

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

3. Implement the agreed proposals

4. Resubmit proposals if problem still not under control

5. Stop the relevant activity of works as determined by the SOR until the exceedance is abated.


4                                             Water quality

According to the EM&A Manual of TM-CLKL, baseline water quality monitoring should be carried out three (3) times per week for a period of four (4) weeks at all the monitoring locations prior to the commencement of marine works.  The measurement should be taken at all designated monitoring stations, including control stations, at mid flood (within ¡Ó1.75 hour of the predicated time) and mid-ebb (within ¡Ó1.75 hour of the predicated time) tides.  Further details of the baseline water quality monitoring under this Contract are presented in the following sections. 

4.1                                      Monitoring Locations

Baseline water quality monitoring was conducted at seven (7) monitoring stations under the Contract.  Coordinates of the monitoring stations are summarized in Table 4.1.  Locations of the monitoring stations are shown in Figure 1.1.  

Table 4.1        Marine Water Quality Monitoring Locations

Monitoring Stations

Coordinates

Easting

Northing

IS(Mf)9

813273

818850

IS(Mf)16

814328

819497

IS8

814251

818412

SR4

814760

817867

SR4a

815247

818067

CS(Mf)3

809989

821117

CS(Mf)5

817990

821129

4.2                                      Monitoring Parameters and Frequency

Table 4.2 summarizes the monitoring parameters, monitoring period and frequencies of the water quality monitoring.

 

Table 4.2        Water Quality Monitoring Parameters and Frequency

Monitoring Stations

Parameters, unit

Depth

Frequency

IS(Mf)9

IS(Mf)16

IS8

SR4

SR4a*

CS(Mf)3

CS(Mf)5

Ÿ Temperature(¢XC)

Ÿ pH(pH unit)

Ÿ Turbidity (NTU)

Ÿ Water depth (m)

Ÿ Salinity (ppt)

Ÿ DO (mg/L and % of

saturation)

Ÿ SS (mg/L)

3 water depths: 1m

below sea surface,

mid-depth and 1m

above sea bed.

Baseline monitoring: 3 days

per week, at mid-flood and

mid-ebb tides, for a period of

4 weeks prior to the

commencement of the marine

works

 

If the water depth is

less than 3m, mid-depth

sampling only.

 

If water depth less

than 6m, mid-depth

may be omitted.

Note:  * Additional monitoring station under this Contract as per recommendation of the   Environmental Review for the Temporary Staging for Construction of the Southern      Connection (ERM, 2013)..

 

In addition to the parameters presented in Table 4.2, monitoring location/position, time, water depth, sampling depth, tidal stages, weather conditions and any special phenomena or works underway nearby should also be recorded.

4.3                                      Monitoring Methodology

Instrumentation


Table 4.3 summarizes the equipment used in the baseline water quality monitoring works.  All the monitoring equipment complied with the requirements set out in the EM&A Manual.  Copies of the calibration certificates are attached in Annex C1.

Table 4.3        Water Quality Monitoring Equipment

Equipment

Model

Qty.

Water Sampler

Kahlsico Water-Bottle Model 135DW 150

4

Multi-parameter Water Quality System

YSI 6820-C-M/YSI 6920

6

Dissolved Oxygen Meter

YSI Pro 2030

1

pH Meter

HANNA HI 8314

1

Turbidity Meter

HACH 2100Q

1

Monitoring Position Equipment

¡§Magellan¡¨ Handheld GPS Model eXplorist GC

4

DGPS Koden KGP913MK2 (1)

1

Note:

(1)   DGPS has been used for the baseline water quality monitoring for station SR4a.

A multi-parameter meters (Model YSI 6820-C-M /YSI 6920) were used to measure DO, turbidity, salinity, pH and temperature for all monitoring stations except at SR4a.

For water quality monitoring at SR4a, pH was measured by HANNA HI 8314, turbidity was measured by HACH 2100Q whilst DO, salinity and temperature were measured by YSI Pro 2030.

Operating/Analytical Procedures

At each sampling depth, two consecutive measurements of DO level, DO saturation, salinity, turbidity, pH and temperature were taken.  The probes were retrieved out of the water after the first measurement and then re-deployed for the second measurement.  Where the difference in the value between the first and second readings of each set was more than 25% of the value of the first reading, the reading was discarded and further readings were taken.  Two samples were collected for laboratory analysis of SS content.  Following collection, water samples for laboratory analysis were stored in high density polythene bottles (250ml/1L) with no preservatives added, packed in ice (cooled to 4¢XC without being frozen) and kept in dark during both on-site temporary storage and shipment to the testing laboratory.  The samples were delivered to the laboratory as soon as possible and the laboratory determination works were started within 24 hours after collection of the water samples.  Sufficient volume of samples was collected to achieve the detection limit.

Laboratory Analytical Methods

The testing of all parameters for all stations except SR4a was conducted by Wellab Ltd. (HOKLAS Registration No.083) whilst that for station SR4a was conducted by ALS Technichem (HK) Pty Ltd. (HOKLAS Registration No. 066).  Comprehensive quality assurance and control procedures were in place in order to ensure quality and consistency in results.  The testing method and reporting limit are provided in Table 4.4.

Table 4.4        Methods for Laboratory Analysis for Water Samples

Determinant

Instrumentation

Analytical Method

Reporting Limit

Suspended Solids (SS)

Weighing

APHA 17e 2540D

0.5 mg/L (1)

4.4                                      QA/QC Requirements

 

Calibration of In Situ Instruments

 

All in situ monitoring instruments were checked, calibrated and certified by a laboratory accredited under HOKLAS or other international accreditation scheme before use, and subsequently re-calibrated at 3 monthly intervals throughout all stages of the water quality monitoring programme.  Responses of sensors and electrodes were checked with certified standard solutions before each use.  Wet bulb calibration for a DO meter was carried out before measurement at each monitoring event.

 

For the on site calibration of field equipment (Multi-parameter Water Quality System), the BS 1427:2009, "Guide to on-site test methods for the analysis of waters" was observed.

 

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

Decontamination Procedures

 

Water sampling equipment used during the course of the monitoring programme was decontaminated by manual washing and rinsed clean seawater/distilled water after each sampling event.  All disposal equipment was discarded after sampling.

Sampling Management and Supervision

 

All sampling bottles were labeled with the sample I.D (including the indication of sampling station and tidal stage e.g. IS1_me_a), laboratory number and sampling date.  Water samples were dispatched to the testing laboratory for analysis as soon as possible after the sampling. All samples were stored in a cool box and kept at less than 4¢XC but without frozen.  All water samples were handled under chain of custody protocols and relinquished to the laboratory representatives at locations specified by the laboratory.  The laboratory determination works were started within 24 hours after collection of water samples.

Quality Control Measures for Sample Testing

 

The samples testing were performed by Wellab Ltd. and ALS Technichem (HK) Pty Ltd.  The following quality control programme was performed by the laboratories for every batch of 20 samples:

 

Ÿ   One method blank; and

Ÿ   One set of quality control (QC) samples (including method QC and sample duplicate).

The QA/QC results are attached in Annex C2.

4.5                                      Baseline Monitoring Results

Baseline water quality monitoring was conducted between 6 and 31 October 2011 for all monitoring stations, except for station SR4a for which monitoring was conducted between 29 August and 24 September 2013.  The monitoring results are shown in Annex C3.  Graphical presentation of water quality at the monitoring stations is given in Annex C4.  Detailed weather conditions at the monitoring locations during the baseline monitoring period are shown in Annex F.  The monitoring schedule is shown in Annex E.

During the baseline monitoring period, no marine construction works were observed in the vicinity of all monitoring stations.  The baseline monitoring results are thus considered representative of the ambient water quality.

4.6                                      Action and Limit Levels

The Action and Limit Levels for DO, SS and turbidity are determined in accordance with requirements set out in the EM&A Manual which are summarized in Table 4.5.

Table 4.5        Action and Limit Levels for Water Quality

Parameter (unit)

Water Depth

Action Level

Limit Level

Dissolved Oxygen (mg/L) (surface, middle and bottom

Surface and Middle

5%-ile of baseline data

4mg/L except 5mg/l for FCZ or 1%-ile of baseline data

Bottom

5%-ile of baseline data

2mg/L or 1%-ile of baseline data

 

Turbidity (NTU)

Depth average

95%-ile of baseline data and 120% of upstream control station¡¦s turbidity at the same tide of the

same day

 

99%-ile of baseline and 130% of turbidity at the upstream control

station at the same tide of same day

SS (mg/L)

Depth average

95%-ile of baseline data and 120% of upstream control station¡¦s SS at the

same tide of the same day

99%-ile of baseline and 130% of SS at the upstream control station at the same tide of same day

Notes:

(1)   Depth-averaged is calculated by taking the arithmetic means of reading of all three depths

(2)   For DO, non-compliance of the water quality limit occurs when monitoring result is lower that the limit.

(3)   For SS & turbidity non-compliance of the water quality limits occur when monitoring result is higher than the limits.           

The calculated Action and Limit levels are shown in Table 4.6.

 

Table 4.6        Action and Limit Levels for Water Quality

Parameter (unit)

Water Depth

Action Level

Limit Level

Dissolved Oxygen (mg/L) (surface, middle and bottom

 

Surface and Middle

5.0

4.2 except 5 for FCZ

 

Bottom

4.7

 

3.6

Turbidity (NTU)

Depth average

27.5 and 120% of upstream control station¡¦s turbidity at the same tide of the

same day

 

47.0 and 130% of turbidity at the upstream control

station at the same tide of same day

SS (mg/L)

Depth average

23.5 and 120% of upstream control station¡¦s SS at the

same tide of the same day

34.4 and 130% of SS at the upstream control station at the same tide of same day

Notes:

(1)   Depth-averaged is calculated by taking the arithmetic means of reading of all three depths

(2)   For DO, non-compliance of the water quality limit occurs when monitoring result is lower that the limit.

(3)   For SS & turbidity non-compliance of the water quality limits occur when monitoring result is higher than the limits.           

Table 4.7        Event/ Action Plan for Water Quality

 

Event

ET Leader

         IEC

 SOR

             Contractor

Action level being exceeded by one sampling day

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

 

Identify source(s) of impact;

 

Inform IEC, contractor and SOR;

 

Check monitoring data, all plant, equipment and Contractor's working methods.

 

Check monitoring data submitted by ET and Contractor¡¦s working methods.

Confirm receipt of notification of non-compliance  in writing;

 

Notify Contractor.

Inform the SOR and confirm notification of the non-compliance  in writing;

 

Rectify unacceptable practice;

 

Amend working methods if appropriate.

Action level being exceeded by two or more  consecutive sampling days

Repeat measurement on next day of exceedance to confirm findings;

 

Identify source(s) of impact;

 

Inform IEC, contractor, SOR and EPD;

 

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

 

Discuss mitigation measures with IEC, SOR and Contractor;

 

Ensure mitigation measures are implemented;

 

Increase the monitoring frequency to daily until no exceedance of Action level;

Check monitoring data submitted by ET and Contractor¡¦s working method;

 

Discuss with ET and Contractor on possible remedial actions;

 

Review the proposed mitigation measures submitted by Contractor and advise the SOR accordingly;

 

Supervise the implementation of mitigation measures.

Discuss with IEC on the proposed mitigation measures;

 

Ensure mitigation measures are properly implemented;

 

Assess the effectiveness of the implemented mitigation measures.

Inform the Supervising Officer and confirm notification of the non-compliance  in writing;

 

Rectify unacceptable practice;

 

Check all plant and equipment and consider changes of working methods;

 

Submit proposal of additional mitigation measures to SOR within 3 working days of notification and discuss with ET, IEC and SOR;

 

Implement the agreed mitigation measures.

Limit level being exceeded by one sampling day

Repeat measurement on next day of exceedance to confirm findings;

 

Identify source(s) of impact;

 

Inform IEC, contractor, SOR and EPD;

 

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

 

Discuss mitigation measures with

IEC, SOR and Contractor;

Check monitoring data submitted by ET and Contractor¡¦s working method;

 

Discuss with ET and Contractor on possible remedial actions;

 

Review the proposed mitigation measures submitted by Contractor and advise the SOR accordingly.

Confirm receipt of notification of failure in writing;

 

Discuss with IEC, ET and Contractor on the proposed mitigation measures;

 

Request Contractor to review the working methods.

Inform the SOR and confirm notification of the non-compliance  in writing;

 

Rectify unacceptable practice;

 

Check all plant and equipment and consider changes of working methods;

 

Submit proposal of mitigation measures to SOR within 3 working days of notification and discuss with ET, IEC and SOR.

 

 

Limit level being exceeded by two or more consecutive sampling days

Repeat measurement on next day of exceedance to confirm findings;

 

Identify source(s) of impact;

 

Inform IEC, contractor, SOR and EPD;

 

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

 

Discuss mitigation measures with  IEC, SOR and Contractor;

 

 

Ensure mitigation measures are implemented;

 

Increase the monitoring frequency to daily until no exceedance of Limit level for two consecutive days;

Check monitoring data submitted by ET and Contractor¡¦s working method;

 

Discuss with ET and Contractor on possible remedial actions;

 

Review the Contractor¡¦s mitigation measures whenever necessary to assure their effectiveness and advise the SOR accordingly;

 

Supervise the implementation of mitigation measures.

Discuss with IEC, ET and Contractor on the proposed mitigation measures;

 

Request Contractor to critically review the working methods;

 

Make agreement on the mitigation measures to be implemented;

 

Ensure mitigation measures are properly implemented;

 

Consider and instruct, if necessary, the Contractor to slow down or to stop all or part of the construction activities until no exceedance of Limit level.

Take immediate action to avoid further exceedance;

 

Submit proposal of mitigation measures to SOR within 3 working days of notification and discuss with ET, IEC and SOR;

 

Implement the agreed mitigation measures;

 

Resubmit proposals of mitigation measures if problem still not under control;

 

As directed by the Supervising Officer, to slow down or to stop all or part of the construction activities until no exceedance of Limit level.

 


5                                             Ecology

5.1                                      Baseline Walk-over Survey

Baseline walk-over survey was carried out in September 2013 to confirm the existing ecological conditions with reference to the habitat maps presented in the approved EIA Report of the Project.  In accordance with requirements of the EM&A Manual, no detailed ecological surveys of flora and fauna were undertaken for the baseline walk-over survey.

5.1.1                               Observations

With reference to the habitat categorization in the approved EIA report, habitats were classified into following ten (10) types (please also refer to Table 5.1):

Mixed Woodland

In this walk over survey mixed woodland refer to both secondary woodland and mature plantation woodland with reasonable proportion of native species and typical woodland flora profile.

Tall Shrubland

Tall shrubland habitat is densely populated with a mix of native tree and shrubby plant species.

Shrubby Grassland

The shrubby grassland is dominated by herbaceous ferns and grass with shrubs and tree species that are patchily distributed on the hill-slopes within the Study area. 

Salt Marsh

Salt Marsh is those low-lying wet land that is influenced by saltwater.

Plantation

In this walk over survey, plantation refers to artificial planting area which included man-made slope and roadside plantation for landscape and ornamental use.

Cultivated Field

Cultivated field includes both active, inactive cultivation fields and orchards.

Mangrove

Mangrove refers to coastal vegetation which dominated by mangrove and mangrove associated species.

Wasteland

Wasteland is an open field which has dominated by weeds and pioneer species.

Watercourse

Watercourse included both natural stream and modified stream.

Developed Area

Typical developed areas within the Study area are the Airport Railway Deport, North Lantau Highway and Pak Mong Village.

Table 5.1        Types of Habitats observed in Walk-over Survey

Mixed Woodland

Tall Shrubland

Shrubby Grassland

Salt Marsh

Plantation

Cultivated Field

Mangrove

Wasteland

Watercourse

Developed Area

5.1.2                               Results

Habitats within Study Area

The updated habitat map is presented in Figure 5.1.  Larger area of tall shrubland was identified within the Study area.  It is believed that they are developed from previous shrubby grassland identified in approved EIA.  Woodland behind Pak Mong Village was defined as plantation woodland in previous EIA.  In this walk-over survey, both mature native species and fruit tree species are well developed into typical woodland profile.  Therefore, it is now classified as mixed woodland.  Some of the orchard area and farmland are now invaded by self-seeded plant indicating its inactive status.  However, according the approved EIA report both inactive and active are categorized as cultivated land.  Thus only those believed to be abandoned and developed into a stage that can fit the description of another types of habitat mentioned above will be shown in the updated habitat map.

It should be noted that mangrove area increased along the inner bay of Tai Ho Wan.

Habitats within Project Area

Habitat types within the Project area are similar to the approved EIA report except some of the man-made slope and landscape area that previously defined as developed area are now classified as plantation because of its vegetation coverage and maturity of development.


 

Flora Species of Conservation Interest

This walk-over survey also confirmed the existence of the flora species of conservation interest according to the figure ¡§Location of Species of Conservation Interest Recorded in North Lantau between 2003 to 2009¡¨ in approved EIA report.  Most of them can be found within the Study area except those grown in some inaccessible area (e.g. fence off area).

5.2                                      Baseline Dolphin Monitoring

Baseline dolphin monitoring was undertaken at Northwest Lantau (NWL) and Northeast Lantau (NEL) under the Chinese White Dolphin (CWD) Service Contract No. HY/2011/02 for a period of three months prior to the commencement of the Contract.  The baseline line-transect vessel surveys for dolphin monitoring were conducted in September, October and November 2011 as shown in Table 5.2.  Location of dolphin transect survey is presented in Figure 5.2.  Detailed monitoring results are presented in Annex D. 

Table 5.2        Date of Baseline Dolphin Monitoring

No.

Date

Location

1

05/09/2011

W LANTAU + NW LANTAU

2

07/09/2011

NW LANTAU + NE LANTAU

3

16/09/2011

NW LANTAU + NE LANTAU

4

23/09/2011

W LANTAU + NW LANTAU

5

06/10/2011

NE LANTAU + NW LANTAU

6

10/10/2011

NW LANTAU +NE LANTAU

7

13/10/2011

NE LANTAU

8

17/10/2011

W LANTAU + NW LANTAU

9

28/10/2011

NW LANTAU + W LANTAU

10

01/11/2011

NW LANTAU +NE LANTAU

11

02/11/2011

W LANTAU + NE LANTAU

12

05/11/2011

NW LANTAU + NE LANTAU

13

06/11/2011

NE LANTAU

14

07/11/2011

NW LANTAU + W LANTAU

Notes:

* NW Lantau = Northwest Lantau Survey Area, NE Lantau = Northeast Lantau Survey Area, W Lantau = West Lantau

In total, 112 groups of Chinese White Dolphins, numbering 413 individuals, were observed during the three-month survey.  Most of them were sighted in the West Lantau (WL) and Northwest Lantau (NWL) regions.

Major findings along and near the future alignments of HKLR and TM-CLKL as well as the reclamation site of HKBCF (collectively called ¡§the Site¡¨ below) are summarized as follows:

Ÿ   Dolphins were sighted but not in high concentration near the Site;

Ÿ   Several large dolphin aggregations were seen near the Site;

Ÿ   Several grids had moderate to high dolphin density near the Site;

Ÿ