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Construction Soil and Water Quality Management Plan

Epping to Thornleigh Third Track Alliance

Construction Soil and Water Quality Management Plan (SWQMP) Epping to Thornleigh Third Track Alliancei

Construction Soil and Water Quality Management Plan

Document Control

Title Construction Soil and Water Quality Management Plan (SWQMP)

Document Number/Ref: ETTT-ETTTAL-PE-000100

Task Name Position Signed/Approved Date

ORIGINATOR Lucy HavyattEnvironment Coordinator

03/03/16

REVIEW Reece Wilkie SHEC Manager 03/03/16

REVIEW Andrew Naylor Construction Manager 03/03/16

APPROVAL Scott Hunter Alliance Manager 03/03/16

Details of Revisions

Rev Date Description0 22/05/2013 Initial document submission for TPD review

1 07/06/2013 Updated to reflect draft CoA

2 25/06/2013 Updated to reflect final CoA and edited following TPD / EMR review

3 03/07/2013 Updated following TPD and ER comments

4 23/07/2013 Updated to reflect project determination

5 20/08/2013 Updated following consultation with Council and Agencies.

6 04/08/2013 Compiled for DP&I Review and Approval

7 18/10/2013 Updated following consultation with DP&I Initial for Construction

8 24/02/2014 Removal of procedures to central location

9 15/03/2015 Annual review, and updated for Organisation Chart. Incorporate document design changes in-line with Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG)

10 03/03/2016 Annual review and update of Organisation Chart. Formatted document design in-line with Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG)

Construction Soil and Water Quality Management Plan (SWQMP) Epping to Thornleigh Third Track Allianceii

Contents

1 Objectives 1

2 Legislation, Licences, Standards, Planning Instruments and Guidelines Applicable to the Project 2

3 Supporting Procedures, Forms, Checklists and Registers 3

4 Process 5

4.1. Erosion and Sediment Control 5

4.2. Water Quality 5

4.3. Flood Risk 5

4.4. Spoil and Fill 5

5 Management 6

5.1. Erosion and Sediment Control Management 10

5.1.1. Erosion Management 12

5.1.2. Sediment Management 12

5.1.3. Ground Disturbance 13

5.1.4. Water Diversion 13

5.2. Water Quality Management 15

5.2.1. Ground Water 15

5.2.2. Surface Water 16

5.3. Flooding Risk Management 17

5.4. Spoil and Fill Management 18

5.4.1. Management of Spoil and Fill Waste 18

5.4.2. Stockpile Location and Management 18

6 Goals and Limits 20

7 Monitoring 21

8 Reporting 22

9 Incidents and Non-Conformances 23

10 Review 24

Annexure A – Construction Soil and Water Quality Management Plan Compliance Tracking Sheet 33

Construction Soil and Water Quality Management Plan (SWQMP) Epping to Thornleigh Third Track Allianceiii

Figure 1 – Erosion and Sediment Control Management Process

Appropriate Training

• All personnel are to be inducted, and receive ongoing training via toolbox talks in relation to erosion and sediment (ERSED) risk management.

• Environmental training will be conducted once a week. Topics of training are to be determined by the Environmental manager based on environmental and community risk at the time.

• Specific training will be provided to personnel responsible for planning and implementation of ERSED controls detailed within the various Erosion and Sediment Control Plans (ESCP).

Assessment of the Situation

• A full site review of the works area to be conducted by the project’s Soil Conservationist.

• Development of primary ESCP by the Soil Conservationist in consultation with the Environment Coordinator.

• ESCP will be prepared in accordance with Managing Urban Stormwater - Soils and Construction Volumes 1 and 2, 4th Edition (Landcom, 2004 – The Blue Book).

• In accordance with the principles of the Blue Book, approach to soil and water quality management will be to focus on clean water diversion and erosion control in the first instance followed by sediment capture.

• The implementation of temporary erosion and sediment controls will be progressive and continual. Erosion control measures will be designed such that they are as close as possible to the potential source of sediment.

Hold Points in Inspection Test Plans (“ITPs”)

ESCP will be developed for each work area prior to the start of clearing and grubbing. The development and implementation of an ESCP is a hold point within the Vegetation Clearing Procedure. Clearing cannot occur until the ERSED hold point is released. Hold point will be signed off by the Environment Coordinator and Site Foreman.

Environmental Control Implementation

• Erosion and sedimentation controls will be identified and implemented as specified on the ESCP.

Monitor Environmental Control

• Each week and after rainfall events, erosion and sediment controls will be inspected to ensure performance is as designed and for undercutting, sagging and repaired where necessary.

• Regular inspections will be conducted by the Soil Conservationist at least fortnightly (The need to be reviewed by the Environmental Manager each 3 months).

• Ongoing communication and feedback between the Soil Conservationist to construction staff will occur to reinforce the approach to erosion and sediment control management for the project and to drive continued improvement.

• The ERSED Inspection Checklist and/or Weekly Environmental Inspection Checklist will be used to ensure that all environmental aspects relating to erosion and sediment controls are reviewed during inspection of the project. Actions arising from the inspections will be recorded on the Environmental Inspection Actions Form and each action will be allocated to the foreman for the work area.

Site Foreman

Environment

Coordinator

Site Foreman

Environment

Coordinator

Project Engineer

Soil Conservationist

Site Foreman

Environment

Coordinator

Project Engineer


Site Foreman

Environment

Coordinator


Onsite Management Responsibility

Construction Soil and Water Quality Management Plan (SWQMP) Epping to Thornleigh Third Track Alliance1

1 Objectives

• To correctly implement soil and water management controls to minimise the movement of sediment and other pollutants into receiving waterways and to comply with Condition of Approval (CoA) E34 (d)- Construction Soil and Water Quality Management Plan, TfNSW Standard Requirements TSR E1 – Environmental Management and the Environmental Protection Licence (EPL) as applicable to ETTT works.

• Where watercourses are affected by construction works the impacts and mitigation measures are addressed in the Construction Flora & Fauna Management Plan. The implementation of the water quality monitoring is addressed in the Water Quality Monitoring Program.

• This Plan forms part of the overall Project Construction Environmental Management Plan (CEMP) and addresses the specific CoA, REMMs and other applicable conditions relating to the management of soil and water quality during construction (refer to Section 3.1 of the CEMP for further detail).

• Development of the Construction Soil and Water Quality Management Plan will be in consultation with the NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI) and Hornsby Council.


2 Legislation, Licences, Standards, Planning Instruments and Guidelines Applicable to the Project

• Table 1 below details the legislation, licences, standards, planning instruments and guidelines considered during development of this Plan.

Table 1: Legislation, Licences, Standards, Planning Instruments and Guidelines Applicable to the Project

Legislation / Licences Standards & Guidelines Planning Instrument

• NSW Protection of the Environment Operations Act, 1997

• TfNSW Standard Requirements TSR E1 – Environmental Management

• Project Planning Approval Dated: 17 July 2013

• Project EPL # 20287 • Australian and New Zealand Guidelines for Fresh and Marine Water Quality (ANZECC/ARMCANZ 2000)

• Epping to Thornleigh Environmental Impact Statement

• NSW Fisheries Management Act, 1994

• Environmental Best Management Practice Guideline for Concreting Contractors (OEH, 2004)

• Epping to Thornleigh Submission Report and Revised Environmental Mitigation Measures (REMMs)

• Water Management Act, 2000

• Soils and Construction – Volume 1, 4th Edition (Landcom) March 2004

• NSW Fisheries Management Amendment Act, 2006

• Urban Erosion. Department of Conservation and Land Management (Revised edition 1992)

• Transport for NSW, Chemical Storage and Spill Response Guidelines, 2011

• OEH’s Waste Classification Guidelines: Part 1 Classifying Wastes (DECC 2009a)

• Soil and water quality management compliance tracking sheet is provided in Annexure A.


3 Supporting Procedures, Forms, Checklists and Registers

• Tools that are used to support the implementation of this Plan are detailed within Table 2 below.

Table 2: Supporting Procedures, Forms, Checklists and Registers Applicable to the Project

Procedure Form Checklist Register

• Construction Water Flocculation and Discharge Procedure

• Construction Water Flocculation and Discharge Record

• Permit to Pump Form

• Water Quality Monitoring Record Form

• Refuelling Procedure

Supporting documentation below can be found in the CEMP

• Spill Response Procedure

• Weekly Environmental Inspection Procedure

• Environmental Inspection Actions Form

• ERSED Inspection Checklist

• Stop Work Report Form• Weekly

Environmental Inspection Checklist

Supporting documentation below can be found in the Contamination Management Plan

• Unexpected Discovery of Contamination Procedure

• The supporting documents applicable to the management of vibration are provided separately on the TfNSW Website and on the Alliance’s “Our Way” management system.


Figure 2 – Overview of work locations, waterways and proposed surface water monitoring locations

Pennant Hills Station

• Extension of Pennant Hills Station concourse

• Replacement of existing pedestrian footbridge, south of Pennant Hills Station

Beecroft Station

• Extension of the roof of the Beecroft Station pedestrian underpass

• Reconfiguration of commuter car parking

Cheltenham Station

• New station concourse, lifts and stairs

• Reconfiguration of commuter car parking

• Easy access upgrade of the station

Six kilometres of new track between Epping and Thornleigh

New bridge over M2 motorway and Devlins Creek

New bridge over section hut

Epping Station

• Minor station works to accommodate the new track


4 Process

4.1. Erosion and Sediment Control

• Prior to and during construction, the management of erosion and sediment (ERSED) control risks will follow the process presented in Figure 1 and Section 5.1.

4.2. Water Quality

• The management of potential water quality risks during construction from fuels, oils and chemicals will be managed following the process detailed within Section 5.2.

• Concrete wastewater risks during construction will be managed following the process presented in Figure 6.

4.3. Flood Risk

• The management of flood risks during construction will be managed following the process outlined in Section 5.3.

4.4. Spoil and Fill

• The management of spoil and fill during construction will be managed following the processes outlined in Section 5.1 for erosion and sediment related risks and Section 5.4 for spoil and fill storage, reuse and disposal management.


5 Management

• Figure 2 provides an overview of site activities and their general locations, waterway locations in proximity to the project and surface water quality monitoring locations.

• The construction activities that could impact on soil and water and their corresponding risks are listed in Table 3. Actions and management systems to be implemented are also detailed further in this Section and Table 5.

• All construction personnel working on the project will be provided with an induction and ongoing training into soil and water management measures and procedures to be implemented for the project.

Table 3 Construction activities and potential impacts on soil and water quality

Construction Phase

Activity Risk Management

Site Establishment*

• Site set out

• Installation of environmental controls and fencing

• Compound site and ancillary sites (stockpile and storage sites)

• Clearing of vegetation

Erosion and sedimentation

Erosion and sedimentation risk management is outlined within Figure 1 and Section 5.1.

Hydrocarbon and other chemical spills from plant operation and maintenance

Water quality risk management associated with hydrocarbon and other chemical spills are detailed within Section 5.2. The Refuelling Procedure and Spill Response Procedure provide subsequent management to reduce potential for water quality impacts.

Flooding The flood risk for the project is considered low due to the site being located along a ridge line, however, management of potential risks is detailed within Section 5.3.

Relocation of Services

• Services location, identification and consultation with service provider;

• Relocation works.




Water quality risk management associated with hydrocarbon and other chemical spills is detailed within Section 5.2. The Refuelling Procedure and Spill Response Procedure provide subsequent management to reduce potential for water quality impacts.


Construction Phase


Earthworks

Structures

• Cut to fill operations

• Sandstone batter excavation

• Spoil transport and processing

• Fill embankments

• Batter treatments

• Drainage

• Stabilisation and rehabilitation


Increased risk of surface runoff and erosion during earthworks period. Erosion and sedimentation risk management is outlined within Figure 1 and Section 5.1.


Water quality risk management associated with hydrocarbon and other chemical spill is detailed within Section 5.2. The Refuelling Procedure and Spill Response Procedure provide subsequent management to reduce potential for water quality impacts.

Acids and chemicals (e.g. concrete) from washing processes

Water quality risk management associated with acids and chemicals is detailed within Section 5.2 and Figure 6. Potential for impacts on human health risks if water is ingested.

Discharge of captured water with pH or suspended solids outside relevant criteria

Waste water risk management is provided within Section 5.2 and further detailed within the Construction Water Flocculation and Discharge Procedure.

Groundwater contamination

Water quality risk management associated with groundwater contamination is detailed within Section 5.2.

Potential for impacts on human health risks if groundwater is contaminated.

Flooding The flood risk for the project is considered low due to the site being located along a ridge line, however, management of potential risks is detailed within Section 5.3.

Disturbance of saline soils

Soil and water quality risk management associated with disturbance of saline soils is considered low; however, management of potential risks is detailed within Section 5.1.

Disturbance of contaminated soils

Disturbance of contaminated soils and subsequent management is detailed within the Unexpected Discovery of Contamination Procedure.

Potential impacts on human health from odours, particulate matter from contaminated soil.


Construction Phase


Structures • Piling

• Bridge over M2

• Structures and bridge adjustments





Groundwater contamination

Water quality risk management associated with groundwater contamination is detailed within Section 5.2.

Potential for impacts on human health risks if groundwater is contaminated.



Station Adjustments

• Works at Stations

• Car park adjustments







Track Work • Installation of track






Construction Phase


Signalling and Communications

• Installation of signalling and communications





Overhead Wire

• Installation of wire

• Adjustment of wire





Commissioning • Testing and Commissioning




5.1. Erosion and Sediment Control Management

• The proposed works involve excavation and soil disturbance in many locations, resulting in exposure of underlying soils, which has the potential to lead to erosion and sedimentation in downstream water bodies. Such excavation and soil disturbance would be required for cut to fill operations, vegetation clearance, service relocation works, retaining walls, installation of stormwater drainage infrastructure, installation of new track and the augmentation of culverts.

• The following principles will apply to all areas and stages of the construction program:

– Minimise extent of ground disturbance;

– Diverting “clean” water around and through the site;

– Implement erosion control strategies to prevent generation of sediment;

– Implement sediment control strategies to prevent off-site pollution;

– Progressive stabilisation following completion of each work area; and

– Monitoring of controls & strategies including maintenance requirements.

• Regular inspections will be conducted by an accredited erosion control specialist at least fortnightly. Ongoing communication and feedback will be provided by the specialist to construction staff to reinforce initial training and drive continued improvement.

• Site Specific Erosion and Sediment Control Plans (ESCP) will be prepared progressively to include the management strategies and controls for all Project activities with the potential to impact on sediment loss and erosion. They will contain detailed erosion and sediment (ERSED) control information for each construction zone, and will include drainage systems, location of sediment fences and other ERSED control structures, and sediment basin locations.

• ESCPs will be developed as detailed within Figure 3.


Figure 3 – Erosion and Sediment Control Plan (ESCP) Process

Develop Primary ESCP

Develop site specific ESCP in consultation with Site Foreman and Engineer

ESCP to be agreed and signed off between Environment Coordinator (EC) and Site Foreman

Soil Conservationist to review and endorse site specific ESCP

Undertake regular1 inspections of onsite erosion and sediment controls and review ESCP’s. Document any issues in the Environmental Inspection Actions Form (EC) and site diaries (Site Foreman)


DEVELOP

APPROVE

IMPLEMENT & AUDIT


Site Foreman

Environment Coordinator

Project Engineer

Site Foreman


Site Foreman


Environment Representative (ER)


Process Responsibility

Continuous Improvement

Lessons learnt on previous ESCPs to feed into new plans

1 weekly and following 25mm of rain in 24 hours


5.1.1. Erosion Management

• Erosion control is the first priority of any erosion and sediment control strategy. Effective and practical erosion control is achieved through:

– Limiting area of disturbance and implementing progressive stabilisation to limit time of disturbance / exposure to erosion;

– Integrating measures which reduce volume of water moving over exposed surfaces. These include diversions of non site water safely around the site but also measures within the construction area to reduce the sizes of local catchments and take water to a regular outlets or some stable conveyance, pipe or lined channel;

– Utilising measures which slow the movement of water over exposed areas to velocities which do not lead to scour of the surface. This may be achieved via creating flat gradients in channels and formations, introducing roughness or installing flow checking measures within channels; and

– Providing additional protection, cover or stability to exposed surfaces so that it is less readily eroded. Options, depending on site constraints, include additional compaction, spray on stabilisers (tackifyers), mulches, blankets and temporary vegetation.

• These approaches will be included in the planning phases for each work activity and integrated with the works at each site. This will lead to a greatly reduced generation of sediment and similarly reduce the reliance on sediment control.

• In areas close to sensitive environments (bushland or clean waters) or where there is a lack of available space for sediment control, temporary and immediate protection can be achieved through covering the soil surface using geotextile or plastic. This approach can also be applied as part of the construction works to secure areas which may be difficult to access removing a potential ongoing maintenance concern.

• Areas disturbed as part of access construction or main works activities which are no longer required within the construction zone may be immediately protected using site mulch or light weight covers. This approach will limit the size of the construction area and keep areas exposed to erosion to a minimum.

• The requirement for protection and the materials to be used will be detailed within the ESCPs for each activity or area.

5.1.2. Sediment Management

• Although essential, sediment control will be viewed as secondary to erosion control in minimising ground and surface water pollution resulting from construction activities. The primary sediment control should always be a commitment to enhanced site management including sweeping of hard areas, limiting the volume of lose and easily transportable material and removal of captured sediment from controls.

• Sediment control measures to be implemented on this project include traps, inlet protections (refer to Figure 4 for example), contour controls (for low volume sheet flow) and flocculation agents.


Figure 4 – Typical inlet filter (Landcom, 2004)

5.1.3. Ground Disturbance

• Construction areas will be kept to the minimum required to allow construction and access.

• Environmental staff will work with construction managers to identify limits of disturbance and these will recorded on site erosion and sediment control plans and clearly set out on the site prior to any disturbance or clearing.

• Progressive clearing will be undertaken where possible to limit the extent of bare areas in initial stages of the works activity.

• The intent of limits of clearing and disturbance and requirements for respecting these limits will be clearly communicated within site toolbox talks.

• Progressive stabilisation will be integrated into the construction program as a work activity.

– This means as works are undertaken, sites that are no longer required for construction activities will be progressively stabilised.

– This may mean that final revegetation is commenced in these areas or alternatively these may have a sterile cover crop established to remove the potential for erosion.

• Works in the areas of high erosion hazard identified in the Environmental Impact Statement and to be incorporated within the sites ESCP will be planned so that the period between disturbance and stabilisation is kept to an absolute minimum required in order to perform the works.

5.1.4. Water Diversion

• Separation of site and non site water is critical to limiting the potential for erosion and maintaining volumes of sediment laden water to levels manageable by construction sites controls. A clear point of separation of waters will be identified within the ESCP’s for each work site (refer to Figure 5 below for example of a diversion bank).

• On hard stand areas, separation may be a change in the grade of the surface, an existing drain or a construction drain (such as a hot mix berm). Areas within the non site or “clean” water catchments may still be available for access and construction activities however these will be maintained as a stable, non erodable surface and clear


of loose sediment or spoil. This will be achieved through sweeping on a regular basis and their cleaning will be included as a key item within shut down procedures for each site.

• On non-hard stand areas, diversions may consist of stabilised earth banks, lined swales or earth filled geotextile sausages. Areas upslope of these areas will be maintained stable and access will be limited to that which does not disturb the ground cover.

– Non site water will be taken to existing stormwater infrastructure or natural stable outlet points. Where this water must flow into the construction area then a stable clean water conveyance (such as a pipe or lined drain) will take water to pit or similar.

Figure 5 – Typical diversion bank (Landcom, 2004)

RESPONSIBILITY


Figure 6 –Concrete Waste Management Process

Washout area location selection

• The washout area is to be located as far away as possible from drainage lines, stormwater pits and other environmental constraints (e.g. EECs), while still being close to where concrete is being used or pumped.

• Locate washout in an easily accessible area, close to access gate and area where concrete is in use and ensure that all contractors are aware that a washout area is available on-site.

Establishing a concrete washout area on site

• Bunded washout areas are to be designed to meet the following:

– Appropriately sized.

– Lined with plastic so water can be transferred to a container or lined with geotextile fabric where water is allowed to percolate into the soil. Designated washout bins (e.g. skip bins, steel bins etc.) are also a suitable alternate option to lined washouts.

– Sediment controls are to be installed around the washout area.

Operational management of concrete washout

• Washout locations to be appropriately signposted and locations communicated via toolbox talks.

• Site Foreman is to monitor washouts for capacity and replace in advance of the need to use.

• Sediment controls are to be monitored and maintained to ensure performance is as designed.

• Settled and hardened concrete residue is to be allowed to set and then recycled.

• Concrete wastewater can be siphoned off, the pH adjusted to acceptable limits and either reused on site or discharged in accordance with the Construction Water Flocculation and Discharge Procedure.

• Plastic or metal trays or receptacles should be placed under concrete pumping equipment to collect any spilled material during works.

• To minimise the amount of washout water generated, scrape excess concrete residue from the hopper before washing. Do not wash the hopper out directly into the street gutter.

Environment

Coordinator

Site Foreman

Environment

Coordinator

Site Foreman

Site Foreman

Concrete Operator

Onsite Management Responsibility

5.2. Water Quality Management

5.2.1. Ground Water

• The ETTT project involves works mostly within the existing rail corridor and involves widening existing cuttings.

• Deepening or creating new cuttings are not proposed.

• There are eight (8) registered groundwater bores within one (1) kilometre of the ETTT project including five (5) monitoring bores, two (2) domestic and one (1) recreational bore.

• The three closest bores occurring to the project are:

– Thornleigh (near Stevens Street) – Domestic Livestock use;

– Beecroft (near Mary Street) – Monitoring;

– Cheltenham (near The Boulevard) – Recreation (Irrigation).

• All bores exist outside of the project construction area.

• The Environmental Impact Assessment (EIS) for the project considered the potential for groundwater impacts as a result of the project and concluded:


– No additional groundwater interception is expected to occur;

– Due to the distance of the nearest registered bores and the density of development, the likelihood of impacts is considered to be very low;

– The proposal would likely result in some compaction of land, however overall the likelihood of impacts to groundwater systems is considered low; and

– Accidental spills and sedimentation have the potential to impact the quality of groundwater. This could potentially result in impacts on groundwater users and the creeks to which the groundwater discharges. Potential impacts would be reduced by implementation of the mitigation measures

• Due to the nature of the project (widening of existing cuts only) it is expected that construction activities will not impact upon existing bores, user rights or creek in flows. Negligible interaction with groundwater is expected.

• The Phase 2 Environmental Site Assessment (Golder, 2011) revealed that of the 10 groundwater wells sampled that:

– Concentrations of various heavy metals exceeded the ANZECC 2000 freshwater trigger values for 95% protection of aquatic ecosystems to some degree in each of the 10 wells;

– A toluene exceedance was detected in one well.

• Further the Phase 2 Environmental Site Assessment (Golder, 2011) detailed that:

– The source of the heavy metals and toluene detected in the groundwater is not known, as the corresponding soil samples for the wells did not reveal a linkage between soil contamination and that of the groundwater;

– Observation on site did not indicate that there is a significant contamination source on the site.

• Given the above, groundwater contamination appears to be as a result of offsite sources of contamination.

• Given that groundwater is not anticipated to be effected by the proposed works, further groundwater monitoring is not proposed with the exception of where groundwater may be intercepted during construction (i.e during piling).

• Where groundwater is intercepted it will be treated as being contaminated, collected, tested and classified in accordance with OEH’s Waste Classification Guidelines.

• The ground water would then be disposed of in accordance with its waste classification.

5.2.2. Surface Water

• Soil is the most likely contaminant of water and water quality impacts can occur during construction if runoff mobilises exposed soils. Management of this potential impact is addressed in Section 5.1. Other water quality risks from construction activities include:

– Concrete wastes from washing processes;

– Discharge of captured water with pH or suspended solids outside relevant criteria;

– Hydrocarbon and other chemical spills from plant operation and maintenance; and

– Disturbance of contaminated soils.

• To limit potential for impact, the following will be undertaken:

– Dedicated concrete washout locations will be constructed in accordance with the EPA’s best practice guideline. Waste water from captured will be treated and discharged in accordance with the Construction Water Flocculation and Discharge Procedure. All solids from these processes will be appropriately classified and disposed accordingly. For further management measures refer to Table 5 and for the project’s best practice management for concrete washout, refer to Figure 6 and 7.

– Groundwater and surface water run-off (requiring treatment) will be collected for treatment prior to discharge. All waste water treatment and discharge is to be undertaken in accordance with Construction Water Flocculation and Discharge Procedure and require a Permit to Pump Form to be completed.


– In accordance with Transport for NSW, Chemical Storage and Spill Response Guidelines, 2011, all oils, potentially hazardous liquids and chemicals will be stored in bunded areas. They will also be covered and isolated from stormwater run-off and on pallets or trays where possible. For further management measures, refer to Table 5.

• In the event a spill occurs on site, the Spill Response Procedure will be implemented.

– Refuelling on site will occur in accordance with the Refuelling Procedure.

– Disturbance of contaminated soils and subsequent management is detailed within the Unexpected Discovery of Contamination Procedure.

Figure 7 – Examples of concrete management during construction

5.3. Flooding Risk Management

• Flood risk on the project is considered to be low given the location of the site on a ridgeline.

• Potential impacts to flooding from the proposed construction works may result from site establishment and preparation works as well as earthworks and drainage works. As the existing culvert structures are the only means to convey upstream catchment flows across the existing rail corridor, facilitation of the construction works is likely to result in some temporary obstruction of the waterway flow path. This obstruction may be caused by temporary bunding or diversions of the waterway, the placement of construction equipment or materials within the flow area, stockpiles or access roads and work platforms.

• There is the potential for such obstructions to result in the localised redistribution or concentration of flows (increased velocities) and depending on the circumstances this may increase flood levels upstream and temporarily impact on adjoining properties. To limit potential for impact, temporary works designs in drainage paths will consider the potential flooding impacts.

• Temporary works with the potential to be affected by significant flood events (i.e. Devlins Creek) will give consideration to flood impacts, such as bank erosion, stream diversion and flow velocities;


• Where additional infrastructure is required along the project, the existing service will be maintained as far a practical to minimise the potential impact to flood waters and new infrastructure built adjacent to the existing.

• In the likely event of a significant flood, all plant and equipment will be relocated to above the 1 in 100 year flood level, where possible.

5.4. Spoil and Fill Management

• Approximately 95,000 m3 of spoil would be excavated during construction, mainly to widen existing cuttings.

• Approximately 30,000 m3 of spoil would be reused on site where practicable for backfilling, access roads and retaining wall construction at fill locations.

• Approximately 65,000 m3 of spoil is expected to require off-site disposal.

• Some material products will be imported where materials won from the site cannot be re-used.

5.4.1. Management of Spoil and Fill Waste

• The waste hierarchy of avoid, reduce, reuse and recycle will be employed throughout the project. Examples to be employed on site include:

– Beneficial reuse will occur on site where feasible to do so;

– Possible offsite crushing and screening will be explored to create a potential reusable product;

– Topsoil will be stockpiled for later reuse in site rehabilitation, where possible.

• Where material is to be reused onsite, the material will undergo analysis against NEPM to identify it’s suitability for reuse within a locality in the following circumstances:

– Within areas identified as contaminated by the Phase 2 Contamination Investigation; and

– In areas identified as contaminated through the Unexpected Discovery of Contamination Procedure.

• Material sent offsite will be classified in accordance with the project’s Waste Management Sub-Plan (WMP) and the OEH’s Waste Classification Guidelines: Part 1 Classifying Wastes (DECC 2009a).

5.4.2. Stockpile Location and Management

• Spoil and fill stockpiles will be approved through the Construction Compound and Ancillary Facilities Management Plan and be located and constructed consistent with the following in mind (refer to Figure 8):

– Erosion and sediment controls installed as detailed within Section 5.1.

– Located out of the drip line of remnant vegetation, riparian areas, minor flow lines and other hazards;

– Constructed on level ground or otherwise along the contour as low, flat elongated mounds where possible;

– Topsoil stockpiles are to be constructed less than 2 m in height where available space allows; and

– Protected in accordance with the relevant ESCP.

– Spoil and fill stockpiles, and their controls will be noted in the relevant ESCPs.


Figure 8 – Typical stockpile site (Landcom, 2004)


6 Goals and Limits

• Wastewater management for the project will be undertaken in the following order of preference;

– Reused on site where feasible to do so e.g. dust suppression;

– Discharged overland through sediment controls which allows the water to percolate into the ground; and

– Discharged to a receiving waterway once meeting the applicable water quality criteria detailed within Table 4.

• In accordance with the ANZECC guidelines for determining the level of protection that should be applied to each waterway in the project area, the following disturbance classifications can be applied

– Devlins Creek – Highly disturbed; and

– Byles Creek – Slightly to moderately disturbed.

• Based on the disturbed nature of the waterways, it is proposed to apply the water quality discharge criteria typically required within Environmental Protection Licences (EPL). Table 4 provides a summary of the proposed water quality discharge criteria and the sampling program for the project.

• To ensure consistency with the objectives of the ANZECC guidelines, background water quality monitoring upstream and downstream at the waterways in proximity to the site will be undertaken (refer to the Water Quality Monitoring Program) to ensure the typical EPL water quality discharge nominated within Table 4 are suitable to the receiving environments.

• Waterways in proximity to the site and surface water monitoring locations are identified in Figure 2.

Table 4 Construction wastewater discharge criteria and sampling program

Parameter Typical EPL Criteria Sampling Frequency Method

pH (units) 6.5 – 8.5 <1 hour Prior to discharge to receiving waterway

Probe

Total Suspended Solids (TSS – mg/L)

<50 <24 hours Prior to discharge to receiving waterway

Grab sample for lab analysis

Oil and Grease No visible oil or odour <1 hour Prior to discharge to receiving waterway

Visual and olfactory observation

Turbidity (NTU) TBC following confirmation of correlation with TSS

Prior to discharge to receiving waterway

Probe


7 Monitoring

• Details of water quality monitoring of local waterways is presented in the Water Quality Monitoring Program in accordance with CoA C17.

• Inspections will be conducted by a Soil Conservationist at least fortnightly. (This requirement will be reviewed by Environmental Manager after each quarter). An important part of the inspections will be continued communication and feedback by the specialist to construction staff to reinforce the approach to erosion and sediment control and to drive continued improvement.

• The Weekly Environmental Inspection Checklist will be used to ensure that all environmental aspects are reviewed during inspection of the project.

• Each week and after rainfall events (>25mm in 24 hours), erosion and sediment controls will be inspected to ensure performance is as designed and for undercutting, sagging and repaired where necessary using the ERSED Inspection Checklist Form.

• Regular inspections will also be undertaken to assess environmental compliance against regulatory requirements and best practice processes and initiatives as outlined within Section 8 of the CEMP.


8 Reporting

• All waterway sampling will be recorded on the Water Quality Monitoring Record Form.

• All results of an erosion and sediment control inspection will be recorded on the ERSED Inspection Checklist Form.

• Actions arising from the inspections will be recorded on the Environmental Inspection Actions Form and each action will be allocated to the foreman for the work area.

• All monitoring required by the EPL will be posted on the Leighton Contractors website as holder of the EPL (www.leightoncontractors.com.au).

• Further reporting will be in line with Sections 8.4 and 8.6 of the CEMP.


9 Incidents and Non-Conformances

• Environmental non-conformances for the project will be managed as per the process detailed within Section 8.5 of the CEMP.

• Incidents will be managed as outlined within Section 9 of the CEMP.


10 Review

• A management review of the SWQMP will be undertaken to ensure its continuing suitability, adequacy and effectiveness. Reviews will include assessing opportunities for improvement and the need for changes to the system, including the environmental policy and environmental objectives and targets. The management reviews will occur:

– On an annual basis to ensure its continuing effectiveness

– Within 1 month following a major (Class 1) incident

– Where an audit recommends a review

– Where there are repeat non conformances and these are not closed out within the agreed timeframe

– As otherwise determined by the Environmental Manager.


Table 5 Mitigation Measures

• Where reasonable and feasible, the following measures will be implemented

No. Requirement Mitigation Measure Timing Responsibility Tool

General

1. CoA E22

CoA E34 (d) (iii)

REMMs S.1

Progressive site specific ESCPs will be developed to manage soils and water quality impacts for each work area prior to the start of construction in that area and as works progress through different stages. The ESCPs will be prepared in accordance with Volume 2D of Managing Urban Stormwater: Soils and Construction (DECCW 2008b). The ESCPs will be established prior to the commencement of construction and be updated as relevant to the changing construction activities. Particular emphasis would be placed on areas identified as high or extremely high erosion hazard. The following measures will be included in the erosion and sediment control plan:

• Disturbed surfaces will be stabilised as quickly as practicable after construction.

• The amount of material transported from the site to surrounding pavement surfaces (in particularly road surfaces) will be minimised.

• Erosion and sediment control measures will be regularly inspected and maintained (particularly following rainfall events) to ensure their effectiveness.

• Erosion and sediment control measures will be left in place until the works are complete or areas are stabilised. The control measures will be removed once the area is identified as stable and no longer required.

• Temporary and permanent energy dissipation measures will be designed and implemented to protect receiving environments from erosion.

• Works will be managed during rainfall (or whilst the ground remains sodden) to minimise vehicle disturbance to the topsoil.

Pre-construction / Construction

Site Foreman / Environmental Co-ordinator

ESCP / ERSED Inspection Checklist / Weekly Environmental Inspection Checklist



2. A qualified Soil Conservationist will be employed to advise on appropriate controls and to monitor the implementation and maintenance of such measures.


Environmental Manager / Soil Conservationist

Soil Conservationist / ESCP

3. CoA E22

CoA E34 (d) (iii)

REMMs R.1

Clean water diversions will be designed and constructed prior to the commencement of construction to allow free passage of clean stormwater through the Project site whilst minimising interaction with sediment laden Project water or contact with exposed soils. Diversions will be consistent with techniques described within Landcom’s (2004) Managing Urban Stormwater: Soils and Construction document.


Project Engineer / Environmental Co ordinator

ESCP

4. CoA E22

CoA E34 (d) (iii)

REMMs R.2

Surface water quality will be managed in line with Landcom’s (2004) Managing Urban Stormwater: Soils and Construction document and Transport for NSW’s Water Discharge and Reuse Guidelines (2012e). This will include installation of appropriate erosion control measures such as silt fencing, check dams, temporary ground stabilisation, diversion berms or site regrading in accordance with ESCPs.


Site Foreman / Environmental Co ordinator

Site Inductions / Toolbox Talks / ESCP

5. CoA C16

REMMs R.10

CoA C19

The SSI shall be designed to avoid impacts on existing bores and user rights, to the greatest extent practicable. Where impacts cannot be avoided, impacts shall be minimised and monitored as part of the Water Quality Monitoring Program (condition Error! Reference source not found.).

Groundwater encountered during the construction of the project will be managed in accordance with the requirements of procedure Construction Water Flocculation and discharge procedure, the Waste Classification Guidelines (DECCW 2009a) and Transport for NSW Water Discharge and Re-use Guideline (2012e).


Design Manager / Site Foreman

Design Drawings and Reports

Construction Water Flocculation and discharge procedure

6. REMMs E.4 Where required, water access entitlements, such as groundwater licences, will be obtained for dewatering activities, in accordance with the requirements of the NSW Office of Water’s proposed aquifer interference policy.

Construction Environmental Manager

Office of Water licence (if required)



7. CoA E34 (d) (iii)

A stockpile location plan will be prepared showing the location of all planned stockpiles to ensure that no unplanned / uncontrolled stockpiles are developed. All stockpiling will be located outside of the riparian corridor.

Prior to commencement of clearing activities

Project Engineer ECMs/ Weekly Environmental Inspection Checklist / Construction Compound and Ancillary Facilities Management Plan (CAFMP)

8. REMMs R.2 Surface water quality will be managed in line with Landcom’s (2004) Managing Urban Stormwater: Soils and Construction document and Transport for NSW’s Water Discharge and Reuse Guidelines (2012e). Discharge of all wastewater will occur in accordance with the Construction Water Flocculation and Discharge Procedure.

Construction Site Foreman / Environmental Co-ordinator

Site Inductions / Toolbox Talks / Construction Water Flocculation and Discharge Procedure / Permit to Pump

9. CoA E23

REMMs R.2

Construction wastewater may be reused for dust suppression in preference to potable water where feasible. Prior to the use of construction water for dust suppression a visual check will be conducted to ensure the water has no surface oil or grease present. Surface oil or grease will be removed prior to the use of the water for dust suppression.


Site Inductions / Toolbox Talks / Construction Water Flocculation and Discharge Procedure / Permit to Pump/ECM

10. REMMs R.5 Routine inspections of all construction vehicles and equipment will be undertaken for evidence of fuel/oil leaks. If found, vehicles would be serviced to remove the risk of leaks.


Daily Plant Prestart Checklist /Weekly Environmental Inspection Checklist



Training

11. CoA E34 (d) (iii)

TSR E1 8.9

All construction personnel will receive training regarding environmental management during project induction. Additionally, targeted environmental task specific training will be provided to appropriate personnel. In addition, the Project Manager and Environmental Manager will attend a half-day training session undertaken by the Principal’s Representative associated with water, erosion and sediment management.

Pre-construction and construction

Environmental Manager

Toolbox Talks

12. CoA E34 (d) (iii)

Environmental training will be provided to all Project staff on ERSED control, spill response and clean and dirty water management in relation to the Project site through Project inductions.



Toolbox Talks

13. CoA E34 (d) (iii)

Specific soil and water quality training will cover ERSED principles. Pre-construction / Construction


Toolbox Talks

14. CoA E34 (d) (iii)

Toolbox talks covering soil and water quality management issues will be developed and delivered as required.



Toolbox Talks

Chemical storage, use and spills

15. CoA C23

REMMs R.3

REMMs R.6

Store and handle all dangerous goods (as defined by the Australian Dangerous Goods Code) strictly in accordance with all relevant Australian Standards and the Environment Protection Manual for Authorised Officers: Bunding and Spill Management, technical bulletin (Environment Protection Authority, 1997).

Construction Project Engineer / Environmental Co-ordinator

Weekly Environmental Inspection Checklist/ECM



16. CoA C23

REMMs R.3

REMMs R.6

All fuels, oils and chemicals will be stored in bunded areas. They will also be covered and isolated from stormwater run-off and on pallets or trays where possible. The bunded area will be large enough to hold the contents of the largest container stored inside the bund, plus 10% of its volume i.e. 110% of the volume of the largest container. Water / material collected in catch pits or sumps associated with bunded areas will be pumped out as required and removed from site by a suitably licensed waste contractor.



17. REMMs R.3

REMMs R.7

Spill kits will be supplied and maintained on site where chemicals are stored or used. All staff will be made aware of the location of the spill kit and trained in their use. Spills will be contained immediately. Refer to Spill Response Procedure.

Construction Environmental Co-ordinator / Project Engineer


18. REMMs R.3 All storage areas for fuels, oils, chemicals and hazardous materials will be located an adequate distance away from watercourses and entry points to the stormwater system.

Pre-construction and construction

Site Foreman Weekly Environmental Inspection Checklist

19. REMMs R.3

REMMs R.8

All vehicle servicing, wash down and refuelling will be located 50m away from waterways. All refuelling will be conducted in accordance with the Refuelling Procedure.


Refuelling Procedure / Construction Waste Management Plan (WMP)

20. REMMs R.3 Concrete washouts will be planned, designed and managed as detailed within Figure 6. Waste materials from washout bays will be reused or recycled where feasible.

Construction General Superintendent / Environmental Manager

Site Inductions / Toolbox Talks / Weekly Environmental Inspection Checklist/ECM

21. REMMs R.3 Regular inspections and audits of storage areas are to be undertaken during weekly environmental inspections as described in Section 7.

Construction Environmental Co-ordinator / Site Foreman

Weekly Environmental Inspection Checklist



22. REMMs R.3 Where possible hazardous materials will not be stored in high risk flood prone areas for longer than 24hrs. Quantities of hazardous materials will also be limited to that required for that work shift. Bulk quantities of hazardous materials are to be stored in compounds that are not in high risk flood areas. Hazardous materials will be removed from high risk flood areas in the event of a flood warning.

Construction Site Foreman Site Inductions / Toolbox Talks / Weekly Environmental Inspection Checklist/ECM

Drainage, culvert, bridge and waterway works

23. REMMs E.1 All track drainage will be designed to meet relevant standards and guidelines. This would include designing all drainage to allow for the effects of climate change and storm surcharging as appropriate.

Pre-construction Design Manager / Environmental Manager

Design Drawings

24. REMMs E.2 Adequate drainage will be incorporated into the design in locations where cuts are required to manage any groundwater.

Pre-construction Design Manager / Environmental Manager

Design Drawings

25. REMMs E.3 Additional investigation/assessment of dewatering requirements would be determined during detailed design.


Design Manager / Environmental Manager

Design Drawings

26. REMMs R.9 Existing RailCorp and Council drainage systems will remain operational throughout the construction of the proposal


Design Manager / Environmental Manager

Design Drawings



Flood preparedness and contingency

27. CoA E34 (d) (iii) Where it is safe to do so and commensurate to the predicted severity of the flood the following flood response procedure will be followed;

• All site supervisors to be notified.

• Construction works are to stop.

• Plant, fuels and chemical are to move out of flood risk areas to higher ground.

• Remove skip bins to higher ground.

• Site toilets are to be pumped out into tankers.

• Remove other materials that may pollute.

• Strategically placing temporary levees or bunds to contain potential impacts and minimise the risk to surrounding properties, which may otherwise be affected.

• Carrying other works that may assist in preparing the site for an impending flood.

Construction Environmental Manager / Construction Manager

Site Inductions / Toolbox Talks / Weekly Environmental Inspection Checklist

28. CoA E34 (d) (iii) Where minor flooding occurs in the works area, temporary diversion or pumping of low flows around the works area will be carried out.



Site Inductions / Toolbox Talks / ESCP / Weekly Environmental Inspection Checklist

29. CoA E34 (d) (iii) Installation of appropriate erosion and sediment control measures, in accordance with a ESCP across all works areas, where potential flooding and diverted stormwater flow may create a risk of sedimentation or contamination from works in progress.




30. CoA E34 (d) (iii)

REMMs R.4

No stockpiles of materials or storage of fuels or chemicals will be located within high/medium flood risk areas, riparian land or adjacent to existing drainage culverts.

Construction Project Engineer / Site Foreman/ECM




Spoil and Fill Management

31. CoA E34 (d) (iii)

The waste hierarchy of avoid, reduce, reuse and recycle will be employed throughout the project. Examples to be employed on site include:

• Beneficial reuse will occur on site where feasible to do so;

• Possible offsite crushing and screening will be explored to create a potential reusable product;

• Topsoil will be stockpiled for later reuse in site rehabilitation, where possible.


Site Inductions / Toolbox Talks / WMP

32. CoA E34 (d) (iii)

Where material is to be reused onsite, the material will undergo analysis to identify it’s suitability for reuse within a locality in the following circumstances:

• Within areas identified as contaminated by the Phase 2 Contamination Investigation; and

• In areas identified as contaminated through the Unexpected Discovery of Contamination Procedure.


Site Inductions / Toolbox Talks / Unexpected Discovery of Contamination Procedure

33. CoA E34 (d) (iii)

Material sent offsite will be classified in accordance with the project’s Waste Management Sub-Plan (WMP) and the OEH’s Waste Classification Guidelines: Part 1 Classifying Wastes (DECC 2009a).


WMP



34. CoA E34 (d) (iii)

Spoil and fill stockpiles will be approved through the Construction Compound and Ancillary Facilities Management Plan (CAFMP) and be located and constructed consistent with the following in mind (refer to Figure 8):

• Erosion and sediment controls installed as detailed within Section 5.1.

• Located out of the drip line of remnant vegetation, minor flow lines and other hazards;

• Constructed on level ground or otherwise along the contour as low, flat elongated mounds where possible;

• Topsoil stockpiles are to be constructed less than 2 m in height where available space allows; and

• Protected in accordance with the relevant ESCP.


Toolbox Talks / ESCP / CAFMP/ECM

Monitoring and reporting

35. CoA E34 (d) (v) Monitoring and reporting to be undertaken as detailed within Section 7 and 8 of this plan.

Construction Environmental Manager

ERSED Inspection Checklist / Weekly Environmental Inspection Checklist / Water Flocculation and Discharge Procedure / Permit to Pump Form


Annexure A – Construction Soil and Water Quality Management Plan Compliance Tracking Sheet

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