PROPOSED 132 kV KHURUB SUBSTATION TO AUSSENKEHR SUBSTATION TRANSMISSION POWER LINE EVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT PROCESS Environmental Management Plan for Construction of the Power Line DRAFT Environmental Assessment Practitioner: Mrs Jaana-Maria Ball May 2017
54
Embed
PROPOSED 132 kV KHURUB SUBSTATION TO AUSSENKEHR …eia.met.gov.na/screening/957_emp.pdfproposed 132 kV transmission power line from the Khurub Substation to the Aussenkehr Substation,
This document is posted to help you gain knowledge. Please leave a comment to let me know what you think about it! Share it to your friends and learn new things together.
Transcript
PROPOSED 132 kV KHURUB SUBSTATION TO AUSSENKEHR SUBSTATION TRANSMISSION POWER LINE
EVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT PROCESS
Environmental Management Plan for Construction of the Power Line DRAFT Environmental Assessment Practitioner: Mrs Jaana-Maria Ball
May 2017
2
Khurub to Aussenkehr Power Line EIA Version 1/May 2017 EMP for Construction
17 May 2017
DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE
I, Jaana-Maria Ball, confirm my independence as an Environmental Scientist and declare that
I have no interest, be it business, financial, personal or other, in any proposed activity,
application or appeal in respect of which Lithon Project Consultants (Pty) Ltd was appointed
to manage the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) process or I was appointed as the
Environmental Assessment Practitioner (EAP), in terms of the Environmental Management
Act, 2007 (Act No. 7 of 2007) and the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Regulations,
2012, other than fair remuneration for worked performed, specifically in connection with the
EIA process for the construction and operation of the transmission power line from the Khurub
Substation to the Auassenkehr Substation, as well as that for the expansion of the Aussenkehr
Substation. I further declare my objectivity in these assessments and that I am confident in the
results of the studies undertaken and conclusions drawn as a result – within the limitations as
147 and Portion 8 Aussenkjer 147 (Annexures B: Locality Plans and C:
Photographs).
There exists a 66 kV power line between the Khurub Substation and the Aussenkehr
Substation, which has been operated for the past 11 years by NamPower. The new
132 kV transmission power line is urgently required as the Aussenkehr Substation
currently supplies important agricultural loads in the south of Namibia and in particular
the majority of the grape farming industry of Namibia.
The Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), and it’s specialist studies, considered
the potential impacts of constructing and operating (including maintaining) the
proposed 132 kV transmission power line from the Khurub Substation to the
Aussenkehr Substation, a distance of approximately 40 km (Annexure D: Facility
Illustrations). The Study identified a preferred power line corridor alignment, within
which an access track is proposed to run parallel to the power line. The transmission
power line will have a final servitude of 44 m width, with only 12 m of that being cleared
for the track. The access track will be used to bring in construction materials, as well
as to access the power line and its associated monopoles for maintenance purposes,
throughout the infrastructure’s life span.
The EIA assessed a power line corridor alignment with a length of approximately 40
km and width of 500 m (250 m from the centre line). Emphasis was placed on the
optimisation of the corridor route as well as cumulative impacts of two power lines within
the study area. The proposed corridor runs parallel to the existing power line corridor
for much of its length.
The proposed project was granted Environmental Clearance by the Environmental
Commissioner of The Directorate of Environmental Affairs: Ministry of Environment and
Tourism (MET) on 24 January 2017.
9
Khurub to Aussenkehr Power Line EIA Version 1/May 2017 EMP for Construction
Purpose
The preparation of an EMP is recognised as a tool in Integrated Environmental
Management (IEM) to address negative impacts and to enhance positive impacts on
site. This EMP informs all relevant role-players in the project as to their environmental
rights and duties. It is to be included in the tender documentation and the Contract with
the appointed Contractor. Its focus is on the construction phase of the proposed
development and contains all the mitigation measures/ management actions proposed
in the EIA process.
This EMP must be read in conjunction with the Scoping Report for the proposed
construction and operation of the power line, as well as NamPower’s policies.
An EMP for the operational phase has also been compiled. It contains all the mitigation
measures/ management actions proposed in the EIA process for the operation of the
facility.
Objectives
The objectives of an EMP are to:
Ensure compliance with all relevant legislation and Regulations with bearing on the
proposed project.
Verify environmental performance through information on impacts as they occur.
Provide required management actions in order to respond to unforeseen events.
Provide feedback for continual improvement in environmental performance.
Refine identified mitigation measures to further reduce potential impacts to minimal
or insignificant levels.
Stipulate specific actions to assist in mitigating the environmental impact of the
project.
Identify measures that could optimize beneficial impacts.
Create management structures that address the concerns and complaints of
Interested and Affected Parties (I&APs) with regards to the proposed project
(development).
Establish a method of monitoring and auditing environmental management
practices during all phases of the activity.
Ensure that environmental safety recommendations are complied with.
Specify time periods within which mitigation measures must be implemented, where
appropriate.
The completion of the project is not delayed due to problems with landowners
arising during the course of construction.
NamPower needs commitment from the PM, the SHEW Department and the Contractor
on the following issues:
To take into consideration the neighbouring landowners and their rights.
10
Khurub to Aussenkehr Power Line EIA Version 1/May 2017 EMP for Construction
To always behave professionally on and off site.
To ensure quality in work completed – technical and environmental.
To resolve problems and disputes arising from damage immediately, in order to
ensure a smooth flow of operations.
To underwrite NamPower’s environmental policy at all times.
To use this EMP for the benefit of all parties.
To preserve the natural and social environment by limiting destructive actions on
site.
Content
The content of the EMP must comply with the Environmental Management Act (Act No.
7 of 2007) and be consistent with the requirements as set out in the EIA Regulations of
2012, and it’s guidelines, and in summary must contain:
Details and experience of the person who prepared the EMP.
Description of the anticipated impacts, and the methods and procedures for
mitigating these identified impacts.
Description of the activities and works the draft EMP will cover.
Outline of the roles and responsibilities of the project managers, engineers,
contractors, NamPower SHEW Section and the authorities.
Mechanisms for monitoring compliance with the EMP.
Time periods within which the measures contemplated in the draft EMP must be
implemented.
Description of the process for managing any environmental damage and identifying
required site rehabilitation measures.
1.2 Legal Framework and Environmental Clearance
This EMP is focused on sound environmental management practices and is based on
national and international best practices, and relevant legislation, policies and
guidelines. All stakeholders should note that obligations imposed by the EMP are
legally binding in terms of environmental statutory legislation and in terms of the
additional conditions to the general conditions of contract that pertain to this project. In
the event that any rights and obligations contained in this document contradict those
specified in the standard or project specifications then the latter shall prevail.
All legislation and policies applicable to the development must be strictly enforced,
including the following:
The Constitution of the Republic of Namibia, 1990
Electricity Act No. 4, 2007
Nature Conservation Ordinance 4, 1975
National Development Plan: Vision for 2030
Environmental Management Act No. 7, 2007
Environmental Assessment Policy for Sustainable Development and
Environmental Conservation, 1995
11
Khurub to Aussenkehr Power Line EIA Version 1/May 2017 EMP for Construction
Convention on Biological Diversity, 1992
EIA Regulations, 2012
The list of applicable legislation provided above is intended to serve as a guideline only
and is not exhaustive nor inclusive.
1.3 Details of the Principal Parties The Project Proponent/ Applicant is NamPower, the Namibian state power utility. They
are also the Project Managers for the construction activities.
The EIA process is being managed by Lithon Project Consultants (Pty) Ltd and the
appointed independent Environmental Assessment Practitioner (EAP) is Mrs. Jaana-
Maria Ball who is a registered Reviewer and Lead Practitioner with the Environmental
Assessment Practitioners Association of Namibia. She prepared all the documentation
emanating from this process, as well as this EMP and her credentials as well as CV
are contained above and in Annexure A.
The independent technical specialist studies that were undertaken to inform the
Scoping Study of any potential impacts arising from the proposed development were
undertaken by:
Avifuanal Assessment – Mr. CJ Brown of Sustainable Solutions Trust
Social Impact Assessment – Mrs. Kerryn McKune-Desai
Archaeology Assessment – Prof. John Kinahan
Botanical Assessment – Dr. Colleen Mannheimer
Drainage Assessment – Mr. Chris Muir
Their contact details, expertise and experience as well as Declarations of
Independence are found in Appendix I of the Scoping Report.
Mr. Johan van Rensburg was the spatial mapping expert who undertook all the mapping
for the EIA.
1.4 Summary of the Proposed Activities and findings of the EIA
The proposed project comprises the construction and operation of a 132 kV power line
from the Khurub Substation (which has recently undergone an expansion) and the
Aussenkehr Substation. A number of alternatives (‘no-go’, technology, methodology,
equipment, mitigation measures) to the construction and operation of the power line
were considered and assessed during the EIA process. The no-go alternative was not
recommended given the importance of the transmission line in the overall power supply
system in Namibia and the need for NamPower to fulfil its mandate as a national Utility.
Four alternative power line corridors were assessed during the assessment. Each
alternative was scoped and a new alternative put forward for assessment that avoided
potential negative biophysical as well as socio-economic impacts. The favoured
alternative is presented in Appendix B: Site Locality Plan. The preferred corridor
12
Khurub to Aussenkehr Power Line EIA Version 1/May 2017 EMP for Construction
alignment avoided sensitive environmental features, most notably sensitive mountain
slopes which are susceptible with erosion and support sensitive biota, future land use
(i.e. township development as per the draft Master Plan of 2015), infrastructure and
high-value cultivated land. The recommended alternative has the least impact on the
receiving environment, as the land is not designated for township and not considered
to be significantly environmentally sensitive.
The infrastructure proposed is illustrated in Appendix D: Facility Illustrations. It
includes a transmission line conductor strung onto a 24 m high concrete or steel mono-
poles placed approximately 250 to 300 m apart. These monopoles will not have guy
ropes and will be placed on a 2 m by 3 m concrete base. This formed the development
‘proposal’ or proposed project as assessed in the EIA process.
The proposed construction work to be carried out on the power line includes:
Site establishment, including site demarcation and fencing (temporary and only
where required). There will be no Contractor’s Camp or cooking facilities, as the
staff of the Contractor will stay in accommodation in the nearby towns;
Digging of holes for the concrete pylon (monopole) base. It is unlikely this will
require blasting as the hills have been avoided;
Casting of concrete platforms for the poles;
Transportation of plant, machinery and equipment to site;
Transport of the conductor into position by means of a pulley system or by rolling
large coils of conductor into position;
Hoisting and lifting of the poles into position;
Stringing of the conductor; and
Construction of the access road.
The transmission power line will take approximately 6 to 8 months to construct,
depending on whether one or more Contractors are appointed to undertake the work
and/ or the working front is on both ends of the transmission line.
Prior to construction, a final ‘walkdown’ of the proposed centreline of the transmission
power line corridor alignment will be undertaken and the sites of each of the poles
finalised and demarcated. During final positioning of the poles sensitive features (e.g.
plant habitats and archaeological sites) will be avoided.
1.5 The Receiving Environment and Assessment of Potential Impacts
Land use
The surrounding land use is predominantly agriculture and conservation, although the
Aussenkehr – Noordoewer valley has recently been declared as a settlement area and
a Master Plan is currently being prepared for potential publication in November 2016.
13
Khurub to Aussenkehr Power Line EIA Version 1/May 2017 EMP for Construction
Avi-fauna
The avi-faunal scoping study (as contained in the Scoping Report) shows that 133 bird
species have been recorded in the local area. Of these, 32 species are wetland birds
(cormorants, herons, ducks, African Fish Eagle, waders, kingfishers, wagtails)
occurring along the Orange River. A further 16 species are directly associated with the
reed, woodland and irrigated crop field habitats supported by the river (storks, doves,
woodpeckers, swallows, sunbirds, weavers, waxbills). The remainder of the species
are associated with the Karoo biome.
Four species are listed as “Threatened” in Namibia’s Red Data book and three species
are “Near Threatened”. Black Stork, Booted Eagle and Ludwig’s Bustard are all classed
as “Endangered”, the African Fish Eagle is listed as “Vulnerable” and Verreaux’s Eagle,
Cape Eagle-Owl and Sclater’s Lark are all “Near Threatened”. All occur as “uncommon”
or “rare” in the project area, with the exception of the African Fish Eagle which is
recorded as “common” along the Orange River.
None of the species are endemic or near-endemic to Namibia, though 45 species are
endemic to southern Africa, and more specifically to the south-western arid zoo-
geographic region. The proportion of the global populations of these species occurring
in Namibia ranges from <5% to over 70%, with 24 species having 30% or more of their
global populations in Namibia. Eight species are Palaearctic migrants, breeding in the
northern hemisphere and two are intra-African migrants breeding in southern Africa.
The potential impacts on the avifauna were considered to be short-term and can be
mitigated to a low significance. If collision is found to be a significant risk, then line
markers (e.g. flappers) may be considered for high risk areas. The design of the poles,
insulators and line configuration is important to avoid electrocution. Fitting perch
dissuaders (e.g. wire brushes) above insulators or providing alternative perch sites can
be used where birds foul insulators, causing short circuits.
Terrestrial Ecology
The transmission line corridor lies within an area of low botanical diversity and
sensitivity and currently fallow. It does not contain any significant natural vegetation nor
fauna (animals). Damage to flora and fauna could be limited given careful planning and
mitigation of collateral damage to the surrounding natural environment.
Floodline
There are no major drainage catchments in the project area that should affect the
construction of the powerline. The site has a gentle slope that is not prone to water
erosion. No impacts are foreseen that cannot be mitigated. The specialist study is
documented in the Scoping Report.
14
Khurub to Aussenkehr Power Line EIA Version 1/May 2017 EMP for Construction
Heritage and Cultural Resources
As per the specialist study (documented in the Scoping Report) the land that the
proposed power line corridor will be constructed, although potentially rich in
archaeological sites has been partially disturbed by previous agricultural activities. It is
therefore likely that archaeological remains, if present, have been disturbed or
damaged. Disturbance or destruction of archaeological remains during construction is
a risk, as is the potential negative impact on the physical landscape setting of
archaeological sites. The precautionary principle should therefore be applied.
Should artefacts be found these must be appropriately managed to avoid negative
impacts and preserve the remains and applicable legislation followed. If found, the
immediate advice of a professional archaeology specialist or the Monuments Council
must be sought in this regard before any further damage is done. The area should be
immediately marked and cordoned off until expert instruction is obtained.
Social
The Aussenkehr Substation lies within Namibia’s //Karas region and Karasburg
constituency. //Karas region is geographically extensive with low levels of population
density; large parts of the region are comprised of the Namib and Kalahari deserts.
Agriculture (most notably grape and small stock farming) is the most dominant
economic sectors in the area. The majority of the employed population derive income
as employees (i.e. private, commercial agriculture and government). There are no
settlements or small-scale livelihood activities in the land next to the proposed power
line corridor. The directly affected land comprises the farms (from the Khurub
Substation to the Aussenkehr Substation): Farm 462, Portion 9 Aussenkjer 147, Portion
7 Aussenkjer 147 and Portion 8 Aussenkjer 147
The potential impacts that have been identified in the Scoping Report do not raise any
‘red flags’. The potential negative impacts are relatively minor and manageable through
effective mitigation and the positive impacts are going to generate long-term socio-
economic benefits for the local area.
The social assessment is contained within the Scoping Report.
Dust
Wind-blown dust is currently an issue in the Aussenkehr – Noordoewer valley,
especially during the dry months.
15
Khurub to Aussenkehr Power Line EIA Version 1/May 2017 EMP for Construction
1.6 Summary of Identified Impacts
Potential impacts of the proposed construction of the 132 kV power line between the
Khurub Substation and the Aussenkehr Substation were assessed as part of the EIA
process. They are summarised as follows:
Environmental
Aspect Project Phase Significance of
Potential Impact without Mitigation
Significance of Potential Impact with Mitigation
Avifauna Construction Low (-) Low (-)
Operation Low (-) Low (-)
Flora Construction Low (-) Low (-)
Operation Low (-) Low (-)
Fauna Construction Low (-) Low (-)
Operation Moderate (-) Low (-)
Archaeology and Heritage Resources
Construction Moderate (-) Low (-)
Operation Low (-) Low (-)
Floodlines Construction Low (-) Low (-)
Operation Low (-) Low (-)
Social Construction Low (-) Low (+)
Operation Moderate (+) High (+)
Economic Construction High (-) Low (+)
Operation Moderate (+) High (+)
– Note:
1. Impacts can be negative (-), neutral or positive (+). 2. The significance of a potential impact is based on the combination of
consequence of the impact and probability of the impact occurring, and defines the level to which the impact will influence the proposed project and/or the environment. It determines whether mitigation measures need to be identified and implemented or whether the resource is irreplaceable and/or the activity has an irreversible impact. Significance is rated as either Low, Moderate (Medium) or High.
This assessment, by the EAP, was based on the technical specialist’s reports on the
sensitivity of the receiving environment. The Reports emanating from the EIA process
included proposed management actions/ mitigation measures to avoid and/ or reduce
potential negative environmental impacts.
Construction-related nuisances, (noise, dust, litter) can be fully mitigated to acceptable
levels, provided mitigation measures stipulated in the EMP are followed. An
environmentalist from within NamPower’s SHEW Section should be employed
throughout the duration of construction.
The general theme of the comment received from the local public during the Public
Participation Process (PPP), undertaken as part of the EIA, was that they wanted the
proposed project to go-ahead as soon as possible provided that proposed mitigation
measures/ management actions were implemented and monitored.
16
Khurub to Aussenkehr Power Line EIA Version 1/May 2017 EMP for Construction
Given the low significance of any negative potential impacts, and the potential for
positive impacts of a high significance on social and economic development, as well as
the fact that the proposed project will have a positive impact on the ability of NamPower
to continue providing the services of power, the EIA recommended that the proposed
project receive an Environmental Clearance Certificate and the proposed construction
activities be implemented as soon as possible.
It was not recommended that the ‘no-go’ alternative be considered given the
importance of the power line between the Khurub Substation and Aussenkehr
Substations in the overall power supply system in the //Karas Region.
17
Khurub to Aussenkehr Power Line EIA Version 1/May 2017 EMP for Construction
2 MANAGEMENT AND ORGANISATIONAL STRUCTURE
2.1 Contractual Obligations In order to ensure that the EMP and its derivatives are enforced and implemented,
these documents must be given legal standing. This shall be achieved through
incorporating the EMP and/or subsequent versions as an addendum to the contract
documents for the particular project and specifying under particular conditions of the
contract for the tender that the requirements of the EMP and/or derivatives apply and
must be met by all parties. This will ensure that the obligations are clearly
communicated to contractors, and budgeted for the environmental requirements
specified in the EMP and/or its derivatives.
All parties should note that obligations imposed by the EMP are legally binding in terms
of the Environmental Clearance Certificate granted by the competent authority.
2.2 Project Manager (PM)
The Project Manager (PM) will ensure that the approved EMP is included in the contract
documentation issued to prospective contractors. NamPower will act as the PM.
Role
Specific to the implementation of the EMP, the role of the PM will be to:
Review and approve documents produced by the appointed Contractor in
response to stipulations in the EMP.
Oversee the general compliance of the Contractor (and its sub-contractors) with
the EMP and other pertinent site specifications.
Liaise between and with the Contractor and NamPower SHEW Section (i.e.
Environmentalist) on environmental matters, as well as any pertinent engineering
matters where these may have environmental consequences.
Responsibilities
The PM’s responsibilities will include:
Be familiar with the contents of the EMP, and his role and responsibilities as
defined therein.
Must make sure that SHEW requirements are included in the documents sent to
the Contractor.
Communicate to the Contractor, verbally and in writing, the advice of the
NamPower SHEW Section and the outcome and recommendations of the
NamPower SHEW Section Reports.
Ensure that the Contractor complies with this EMP i.e. enforcement of the EMP.
18
Khurub to Aussenkehr Power Line EIA Version 1/May 2017 EMP for Construction
Ensure that all activities on site are adequately planned and restricted to
designated areas and to minimise the footprint of the development area.
Request for, review and approve documents prepared by the Contractor in
consultation with the NamPower SHEW Section.
Review and approve drawings produced by the Engineer, Contractor or
professional team in connection with any aspect of the proposed development.
Issue site instructions giving effect to the NamPower SHEW Section’s
recommendations and requirements where necessary.
Review complaints received and make instructions as necessary.
Discuss with the NamPower SHEW Section the application of corrective action for
the infringement of the Environmental Specifications (ES), and other possible
enforcement measures when necessary.
Issue instructions for corrective action, as and when necessary.
Implement Temporary Work Stoppages as advised by the NamPower SHEW
Section where serious environmental infringements and non-compliances continue
to occur.
Ordering the removal of person(s) and/or equipment not complying with the EMP
Specifications.
Facilitate proactive communication between all role-players in the interests of
effective environmental management.
Ensure that all recording relating to compliance monitoring shall be kept on the site
for inspection by relative competent authority.
Reporting Structure
The PM will report to the Competent Authority as well as his/ her line managers within
NamPower, as and when required.
2.3 NamPower SHEW Section
The PM must appoint a suitably qualified and experienced environmentalist from within
the NamPower SHEW Section to monitor implementation of the EMP and measure
environmental compliance during the proposed construction works. The NamPower
SHEW Section is independent from the PM and the Contractor. The NamPower SHEW
Section is given authority to ensure that the EMP is fully implemented and that
appropriate actions are undertaken to address any discrepancies and non-
compliances.
Role
The overall role of the NamPower SHEW Section is to be the site ‘custodian’ for the
implementation, integration and maintenance of the EMP in accordance with the
contractual requirements. The NamPower SHEW Section will be required to liaise with
the PM on the level of compliance with the EMP achieved by the Contractor (and its
sub-contractors) on a regular basis for the duration of the contract.
19
Khurub to Aussenkehr Power Line EIA Version 1/May 2017 EMP for Construction
Responsibilities
The NamPower SHEW Section will have the following responsibilities, at a minimum:
To advise the PM on the interpretation and enforcement of the Environmental
Specifications (ES), including evaluation of non-compliances.
To supply environmental information as and when required.
To review and approve documents produced by the Contractor, in conjunction with
the PM.
To demarcate particularly sensitive areas (including all no-go areas) and sites for
the pole positions (if necessary in conjunction with the technical experts), and to
pass instructions through the PM concerning final pole positions and works in these
areas.
Advise the Contractor, through the PM, with respect to pole, insulator design and
final power line alignment within the corridor (with assistance from an avi-faunal
expert if necessary) to avoid unnecessary bird collisions and electrocution.
To monitor any basic physical changes to the environment as a consequence of
the construction works – e.g. evidence of erosion, dust generation – according to
an audit schedule.
Attend regular site meetings between the Engineer and Contractor.
To undertake regular monthly audits of the construction works and to generate
monthly audit reports. These reports are to be forwarded to the PM.
To communicate frequently and openly with the Contractor and the PM to ensure
effective, proactive environmental management, with the overall objective of
preventing or reducing negative environmental impacts and/or enhancing positive
environmental impacts.
To advise the PM on remedial actions for the protection of the environment in the
event of any accidents or emergencies during construction, and to advise on
appropriate clean-up activities.
Review complaints received and make instructions as necessary.
Identify and make recommendations for minor amendments to the EMP as and
when appropriate.
Ensure that the Contractor, his employees and/or Subcontractors receive the
appropriate environmental awareness training prior to commencing activities,
especially with respect to the dangers and precautions needed when working with
electrical power.
Reporting Structure
The NamPower SHEW Section will report to the PM.
2.4 Contractor/ Sub-contractors
The PM will appoint a Contractor to implement the development. It will be binding to
the Contractor to undertake the activities in an environmentally responsible manner, as
described in the EMP. The Contractor may from time to time appoint Sub-contractor(s).
20
Khurub to Aussenkehr Power Line EIA Version 1/May 2017 EMP for Construction
Role
The employment of locals are limited on this power line project, as the work requires
highly skilled employees. NamPower may undertake some of the work itself. For the
purposes of this EMP the division/ unit within NamPower who may do some of the work
is to be referred to as the Contractor and will take on all the necessary responsibilities
outlined in this document.
Specific to the EMP, the role of the Contractor will be to:
Implement, manage and maintain the EMP for the duration of the Contract.
Designate, appoint and/or assign tasks to personnel who will be responsible for
managing all or parts of the EMP.
Assign appropriate authority, accountability and responsibility for these personnel
to carry out their duties.
Ensure that all subcontractors and other workers appointed by the Contractor are
aware of their environmental responsibilities while on site or during the provision
of their services off site.
Ensure that all subcontractors and other workers appointed by the Contractor are
complying with and implementing the EMP during the duration of their specific
contracts.
Provide appropriate resources including budgets, equipment, personnel and
training for the effective control and management of the environmental risks
associated with the construction.
Maintain a record of complaints and communicate these to the PM and the
NamPower SHEW Section.
Responsibilities
The Contractor will have the following responsibilities:
Be familiar with the contents of the EMP, and his role and responsibilities as
defined therein.
Comply with the Environmental Specifications contained in the EMP and
subsequent revisions.
Confirm legislative requirements for the construction works, and to ensure that
appropriate permissions and permits have been obtained before commencing
activities.
Prepare programme of activities and site plans for submission to the PM.
Review the site inspection reports and take cognisance of the information and
implement recommendations contained therein.
Notify the NamPower SHEW Section and PM, verbally and in writing, immediately
in the event of any accidental infringements of the Environmental Specifications
and ensure appropriate remedial action is taken.
Notify the NamPower SHEW Section and PM, verbally and in writing at least 10
working days in advance of any activity he/she has reason to believe may have
21
Khurub to Aussenkehr Power Line EIA Version 1/May 2017 EMP for Construction
significant adverse environmental impacts, so that mitigation measures may be
implemented timely.
Ensure environmental awareness among employees, subcontractors and
workforce so that they are fully aware of, and understand the ESs and the need for
them.
Maintain a register of environmental training for site staff and sub-contractor’s staff
for the duration of the contract.
Undertake the required works within the designated working areas.
Rehabilitating services, utilities, private/public property and other areas adversely
affected by construction activities outside of demarcated areas in accordance with
the PM’s instructions.
Communicate and liaise frequently and openly with the PM and the NamPower
SHEW Section to ensure effective, proactive environmental management with the
overall objective of preventing or reducing negative environmental impacts while
enhancing positive environmental impacts.
Reporting Structure
The Contractor will report to and receive instructions from the PM.
2.5 Site Documentation and Record Keeping
The following documents must be kept on site in an accessible place, and maintained
by the Contractor:
Site Locality Plan (Annexure B) and Facility Illustrations (Annexure D)
Physical access plans
Site instructions
Pre-construction audit report, including photographic record
Complaints register
Records of all remediation / rehabilitation activities
Records of the quantities of general and hazardous waste generated on site and
disposal certificates or details of volumes of waste recycled
Water consumption
Electricity consumption
Copy of this EMP
Copy of the reports from the EIA process and the Environmental Clearance
Certificate
Monthly environmental compliance report
Environmental training records including Induction Training, ‘Toolbox Talks, specific
training
Emergency response plan and procedures
22
Khurub to Aussenkehr Power Line EIA Version 1/May 2017 EMP for Construction
Environmental Inspections and Audits
Environmental audits should be conducted according to the table below:
Table 1: Environmental audit details
Place Inspector/ Auditor Auditee Inspection/ audit frequency
Work places Contractor Contractor’s team Daily inspection
Construction site
NamPower SHEW Section
Contractor’s Environmental Officer
Fortnightly audit
The monthly environmental compliance report shall include:
Complaints received from affected parties and details of the actions taken.
Environmental incidents, spills of hazardous substances.
Environmental damage which requires rehabilitation.
Damages of private property such as roads, paths, boundary fences, security
installations, buildings, structures.
Consultation with Contractor’s staff including sub-contractors and suppliers
Document checks
23
Khurub to Aussenkehr Power Line EIA Version 1/May 2017 EMP for Construction
3 ENVIRONMENTAL SPECIFICATIONS DURING CONSTRUCTION
3.1 Principles and Compliance
No. Aspect/ Issue Management Measure Management Objective and
Measureable Target(s)
3.1.1 Environmental Principles for the Construction Works
1. The environment is considered to be composed of both
biophysical and social components.
2. Construction is a disruptive activity and all due consideration
must be given to the environment, including the social
environment during the execution of a project to minimise the
impact on affected parties, especially neighbouring landowners
who need to continue with their farming activities and other users
of access roads.
3. Minimisation of areas disturbed by construction activities (i.e. the
‘footprint’ of the construction area) should minimise many of the
construction related environmental impacts of the expansion
project and reduce rehabilitation requirements and costs.
4. Every effort shall be made to minimise, reclaim and/or recycle
waste materials.
5. Every effort shall be made to minimise energy and water use.
6. If archaeological artefacts or grave sites are found, the
immediate advice of a professional archaeology specialist or the
Monuments Council must be sought in this regard before any
further damage is done. The area should be immediately marked
and cordoned off until expert instruction is obtained.
3.1.2 Compliance with Environmental Legislation and Permits
1. The PM shall maintain a database of all pertinent legislation,
regulations and guidelines pertinent to the environmental
24
Khurub to Aussenkehr Power Line EIA Version 1/May 2017 EMP for Construction
management of the activities being undertaken.
2. The Contractor shall ensure that all pertinent legislation
concerning the protection of the environment is adhered to and
that prevention of pollution is strictly enforced.
3. The Contractor shall ensure that all relevant permits, certificates
and permissions have been obtained prior to any activities
commencing on site and are strictly enforced.
4. The workshop for plant and machinery will be off-site.
5. No overnight Contractor’s Camp nor cooking areas will be
established on site. Accommodation for Contractor’s staff will be
in the nearby towns.
6. It is anticipated that construction work will be undertaken during
week days, Monday to Friday from 07h00 to 18h00.
7. Access to the site is proposed via the current gravel access
roads to the Aussenkher and Khurub Substations, and from the
main tar road that runs between the towns of Aussenkehr and
Noordoewer. This access road are also used by other users e.g.
the Namibia Grape Company that farms grapes on the land that
surrounds the Substation, namely Portion 7 of Farm Aussenkjer
No. 147, which is owned by the National Youth Service.
8. It is anticipated that access to the site during the construction
phase would be required during normal working hours on
weekdays only. Various machinery (for example, concrete mixer,
mobile crane, mechanical wheelbarrow, stringing machines)
would need to be brought onto site. The Contractor’s staff would
need to access the site to undertake the work on a daily basis.
9. This access roads will need to be upgraded and maintained by
the Contractor, as it is currently full of potholes. All access roads
utilised during construction must be returned to the same state
(or better) as prior to construction.
25
Khurub to Aussenkehr Power Line EIA Version 1/May 2017 EMP for Construction
10. Details of any fences and gates affected or used during the
construction activities, including a drawing showing the location
of fences and access gates must be provided.
11. Details of the negotiated security arrangements with the National
Youth Service (NYS)/ Namibia Grape Company (NGC) and other
landowners must be included in the Access and Security Plan.
12. Expected solid waste types, quantities, methods and frequency
of collection and disposal as well as location of disposal sites
must be identified and documented. The statement shall further
include methods of minimising, controlling, collecting and
disposing of contaminated water, and details of any hazardous
substances/materials to be used, together with the transport,
storage, handling and disposal procedures for the substances.
13. The Contractor shall provide details identifying what safety
precautions will be implemented to ensure the safety of all staff,
and the general public at large, on site during the life of the
project. This will include protective clothing requirements for all
types of construction activities on site, including protection
against dust, noise, falling objects, work associated with
electricity and work at heights, if required.
14. The Contractor shall provide details regarding all relevant
emergency procedures that will be implemented for fire control
and accidental leaks and spillages of hazardous substances
(including fuel and oil). The Contractor shall further include
details of risk reduction measures to be implemented including
flood control, firefighting equipment, fire prevention procedures
and spill kits.
15. The Contractor shall provide details regarding how solid and
liquid waste generated on the construction site and site office will
be collected, stored, transported and disposed of. Details of any
service provider(s) appointed to manage this task must also be
26
Khurub to Aussenkehr Power Line EIA Version 1/May 2017 EMP for Construction
provided.
16. The Contractor shall provide details of how stormwater
emanating within or adjacent to the site may impact on
construction activities. Details on how the Contractor will deal
with stormwater runoff and potential erosion within the
construction footprint and the greater are must be provided.
3.1.3 Environmental Awareness 1. Environmental awareness and training is an important aspect of
the implementation of the EMP.
2. An initial environmental awareness training session for all of the
Contractor’s (and sub-contractor’s) staff is required prior to any
work commencing which shall be conducted by a suitably
qualified person. NamPower’s SHEW Section will undertake this
induction training.
3. The NamPower SHEW Section will provide the Contractor with
the course content for the environmental awareness training
course, and the Contractor shall communicate this information to
his employees on the site, to any new employees coming onto
site, to his sub-contractors and to his suppliers.
4. The training session shall be delivered in English, with a
translator on-hand if required.
5. The emphasis should be on any (potential) environmental risks
and impacts relating to the construction activities to be
undertaken on site and the related environmental precautions,
which need to be taken to avoid or mitigate these impacts.
6. Records of training session including attendance, nature of
training and date of training shall be kept to ensure all staff
members have received the necessary training.
7. Training shall cover, as a minimum:
27
Khurub to Aussenkehr Power Line EIA Version 1/May 2017 EMP for Construction
The legal status and importance of the Environmental Clearance
and the EMP, and where to locate copies thereof
Specific details of the Environmental Clearance and the EMP
Employees’ role in compliance with the EMP
Training targeted at specific personnel for example operators of
dangerous or heavy machinery
The environmental impacts, actual or potential, of their work
activities and the neighbouring farmers/ landowners
The environmental benefits of improved personal performance
Their roles and responsibilities in achieving conformance with the
environmental policy and procedures (this must be specific to the
employees attending the training)
Emergency preparedness and response requirements
The potential consequences of departure from specified
operating procedures
The mitigation measures required to be implemented when
carrying out their work activities
Environmental legal requirements and obligations
comply with national laws, international guidelines and
professional best practice standards. This may involve higher
level documentation, collection and removal of archaeological
remains and excavation of sites such as graves. The decision as
to the most appropriate mitigation course is taken by the National
Heritage Council in light of recommendations set out in a project
mitigation proposal.
Recognising archaeological sites and the that both the
archaeological site and its physical/ visual setting are protected
under the law, and that the precautionary principle needs to be
applied and work immediately stopped and expert advice sought
if archaeological sites are found
Details regarding plant and animal species, and farm lands, and
the procedures to be followed to protect these areas
The consequences of poaching of animals (including birds) or
28
Khurub to Aussenkehr Power Line EIA Version 1/May 2017 EMP for Construction
removal of indigenous vegetation
The importance of not littering
The importance of using supplied toilet facilities
The need to use water and electricity sparingly
Details of and encouragement to minimise the production of
waste and re-use, recover and recycle waste where possible
Details regarding archaeological and/or historical sites which
may be unearthed during construction and the procedures to be
followed should such be encountered
3.2 Site Establishment
No. Aspect/ Issue Management Measure Management Objective and Measureable Target(s)
3.2.1 Site Identification
1. Sites for the poles shall avoid sensitive environmental features