the best practice guide for environmental protection in construction site

1ForewordPrepared by the Hong Kong Productivity Council under the guidance

of the Hong Kong Eco-Business Awards Working Group, this

guidebook A Guide to Green Construction Practices presents

practicable measures on how to develop a green culture in the

management and operation of construction sites. Its preparation

involved an examination of existing practices within Hong Kong and

around the world to ensure its comprehensiveness. We encourage all

construction companies to use this guidebook regardless of whether

they are practising environmental measures or are just interested in

starting. From a business standpoint the adoption of resource

conservation measures is beneficial since it furthers the sustainability

of internal operations. From an environmental perspective, a green

construction culture can significantly help to limit negative impact on

the environment and will therefore contribute to society as a whole.

There are numerous potential benefits to adopting environmental

protection measures in businesses, many of which have not yet been

fully realized by construction contractors. We trust that the

information contained in this guidebook will provide valuable insights

to all those who wish to embark on a green construction culture.

2AcknowledgementsThe Environmental Campaign Committee, in collaboration with the Chinese

General Chamber of Commerce, the Hong Kong General Chamber of Commerce

and the Hong Kong Productivity Council, would like to thank the following

organisations for their support and useful suggestions :

Business Environment Council;

The Chinese Manufacturers' Association of Hong Kong;

Consumer Council;

Hong Kong Association of Property Management Companies;

Hong Kong Construction Association;

Hong Kong Council of Social Service;

Hong Kong Housing Authority; and

Hong Kong Housing Society.

2

33

Table of ContentsChapter 1 : Green Construction

1.1 Introduction 41.2 Why Green Construction? 41.3 How this Guidebook Can Help You? 5

Chapter 2 : Green Leadership2.1 Leadership 62.2 Policy 62.3 Organisation and Resources 72.4 Environmental Communication 82.5 Environmental Training 92.6 Managing for Continual Improvement 10

Chapter 3 : Programme and Performance3.1 Regulatory Compliance 113.2 Environmental Programme Implementation 113.3 Air Pollution Control 133.4 Noise Control 153.5 Water Pollution Control 173.6 Waste Management 203.7 Energy Conservation 243.8 Housekeeping 243.9 Other Environmental Considerations 25

Chapter 4 : Partner Synergy4.1 Clients 264.2 Suppliers and Contractors 274.3 General Community 29

Chapter 5 : Working Your Way Towards Green Construction5.1 Cultivating a Green Construction Culture 305.2 Keep up the Good Work 30

Appendix I : Examples of Local EnvironmentalConstruction Initiatives 31

Appendix II : Environmental Ordinances / Regulations / TechnicalMemoranda Relevant to Construction Operation 32

Appendix III : Checklist of Green Construction Tips 39Appendix IV : List of Organisations for Assistance 49

4Chapter 1:

Green Construction

1.1 Introduction

The construction industry is one of the largest economic sectors in Hong Kong, having a total workforce ofsome 84,000 persons and the gross value of construction work performed by main contractors was almostHK$122 billion in 2000. Despite the very substantial economic contribution by the sector, its activities docreate some environmental impacts. These environmental impacts may include dust generation, effluentdischarge, noise problem, waste generation destruction of habitats and so on.

Construction companies over the world including Hong Kong have increasingly realised theirresponsibilities for environmental protection in their construction activities. These "green" constructioncompanies have initiated environmental measures for themselves and are now experiencing benefits fromthe steps they have taken. Companies that ignore environmental concerns will jeopardise future opportunities.

Recognising the need to fostering a green construction culture, government departments or non-governmental organisations (NGOs) in many countries have already established programmes, initiatives,guiding documents that aim to encourage construction contractors to adopt green construction measures.In Appendix I the environmental construction initiatives in Hong Kong are outlined.

1.2 Why Green Construction?

To gain the maximum benefit from green construction, a construction company must be clear as to thepurpose and objectives of its green construction initiatives. A company who adopts green measures canexperience corporate benefits and avoid penalties. Its actions will also benefit the community and theenvironment. These benefits include :

Corporate Benefits

Compliance with environmental requirements Cost saving as a result of efficient use of resources

and reduced waste Improved productivity & competitiveness Attracting environmentally conscious clients

Environmental and Community Benefits

Enhancing environmental awareness of staff and the community Preserving finite resources and reducing both local and global

environmental impacts International recognition of Hong Kong's environmental efforts

5Businesses may be subject to the following consequences if they fail to adopt environmentally friendly practices:

Risk of fines or even criminal prosecutions for gross violations of the law - there are increasingly offenceswhich attach liability to directors as well as the ultimate companies responsible for the operation

Develop a negative brand image in the eyes of the public Unprepared for increases in environmental costs or government fines Low staff morale Experience difficulty in attracting business partners

1.3 How this Guidebook Can Help You?

This guidebook is specially aimed at providing information and guidance on green construction measureswith reference to both international and Hong Kong experiences. After reading this guidebook we hopereaders could:

Get an initial concept of green construction management; Realize and adopt green tips given; and Know how to put green construction management concept into practice.

The guidebook is structured in such a way as to maximise its user-friendliness. It includes the followingchapters :

Chapter 2 : Green Leadership

Green leadership refers to the level of commitment made by a company upper management towards thepursuit of environmental objectives within the organisation and the commitment of managers and staff tothe implementation of environmental initiatives. This chapter describes the efforts of upper managementneeded in cultivating a green culture in a construction company.

Chapter 3 : Programme and Performance

This category refers to the types of environmental programmes a company should establish and theiraccomplishments. This chapter describes various environmental tips that a construction company can adopt.They include conservation of energy and water; reduction, reuse and recycling of waste material; andimprovement of environmental quality such as noise control and air quality.

Chapter 4 : Partner Synergy

Partner synergy looks at how a company explores opportunities to inform suppliers and contractors aboutthe importance of environmental management and encourage them to adopt their own environmentalstrategies in their individual operations. Also relevant is the extent to which the company participates inenvironmental education for its customers and the general community. This chapter provides various tipsfor construction companies to enhance partner synergy in environmental protection.

Chapter 5 : Working Your Way Towards Green Construction

This chapter concludes the guidebook with the provision of a self-assessment checklist and useful contactinformation of organisations for advice.

6Chapter 2 :

Green LeadershipThe manner in which upper management leads the organisation is critical to whether a green andremunerative culture can be established within the organisation. Managers should display a strongcommitment to environmental conservation. They can show this through example by acting as a role model,by establishing a clear policy that defines the organisations values towards environmental protection andby fostering a work environment that facilitates staff awareness, communication and knowledge in order toachieve improved environmental performance.

2.1 Leadership

In order to develop a green culture within an organisation, the management are required to bothdemonstrate commitment and at the same time use incentives to encourage employees to practise greenmeasures. Attributes of a good leader include:

Strong planning and organisational skills; Strong communication and interpersonal skills; and Assertiveness.

Tips - What Should I do as a Leader?

Be a role model - Practise what you preach by following the same measuresyou expect your staff to follow. This will demonstrate your commitment to yourcompanys environmental programme and turn you into a good role model.

Get involved in environmental programmes and activities. Communicate with your employees in a two-way manner. Establish incentives to encourage environmental conservation within your organisation (e.g. presenting

awards to those employees who are highly committed to undertaking environmental measures).

2.2 Policy

Top management should create an environmental policy that proclaims the commitment of the organisationto protecting the environment. An organisations environmental policy is a statement of intent that isdesigned to outline how it will reduce environmental impacts and improve environmental performance.

All organisational activities have potential environmental effects or impacts. The role of the environmentalpolicy is not to list individual initiatives or projects to deal with each impact, but to create a framework,around which such initiatives can be developed, which will lead to improved overall environmental performance.

7An environmental policy must not be viewed in isolation, but should be seen as an integral part of theorganisations business policies. In general terms, it should:

Demonstrate commitment to adopting good environmental practice. Be company-wide: applies to all parts of the organisation and is not restricted to particular aspects of the

organisations operations or focused on individual departments. Be strategic: state the aims and objectives of the policy and summarise reasonable activities and

procedures that shall be undertaken to achieve aims.

Tips - How Can It Be Prepared?

The environmental policy can be a simple concise statement that is made known to all employees and bemade available to the general public. In general, upper management and those employees responsible for orinterested in environmental management can jointly draw up a draft policy. Then all members of the organisationshould be allowed to comment on it before it is finalised. The environmental policy should containcommitments to environmental conservation that can be turned into actions. Once established theenvironmental policy should also be properly displayed to staff, business partners and customers.

An Example of Environmental Policy:

Our company is committed to taking action:

To undertake sound environmental practices throughout the entire operation. To comply with all environmental legislation. To minimise energy and water use. To minimise the amount of waste produced and to re-use and recycle

whenever practicable. To adopt pollution control measures so as to reduce environmental impacts. To invite customers, suppliers to participate in our efforts to protect

the environment. To openly communicate our policy and practices to interested parties. To continually monitor and record our environmental impacts. To continually improve our environmental performance by establishing

environmental objectives and targets.

2.3 Organisation and Resources

Appropriate allocation of both human and financial resources is required for the successful implementationof environmental initiatives within an organisation. The first step in implementing your environmentalinitiatives is to secure the support of your staff. This will increase the chance of programme success. Due tothe diverse nature of most environmental management measures, all members of your organisation willconceivably be required to help run the programme. You are likely to see better results if all staff join in theeffort than if only a few individuals participate in the programme. Furthermore, by informing your staff aboutthe programme before you implement measures, it will help them to understand the benefits and rationalebehind the measures being taken, while getting them involved in making decisions to ensure that the programmeruns smoothly over the long term. Sometimes there may be members in your organisation who may notfully co-operate with you on environmental programme implementation. Finding out the root cause for such

8behaviour of these people and then changing their attitude are important. Communication clear andreasoned environmental expectations to staff, monitoring staff environmental performance and establishingan effective incentive/penalty mechanism are usually keys to environmental success.

Tips - Where Do I Start?

You can appoint an environmental champion called a Green Manager (GM) within your organisation.This individual shall be responsible for encouraging staff to support environmental measures and forco-ordinating programme implementation within your company. Your selected GM should be committed tofulfilling programme requirements and to protecting the environment. The GMs responsibilities will varyaccording to the programme that you have designed. However, the GM should assume a number offundamental duties that are listed below.

Encourage staff to become involved in the programme. This can be achieved by arranging informationdissemination sessions and by encouraging staff participation in the creation of environmental programmes.

Collect staff ideas and answer their questions or concerns regarding the programme. Ensure that realistic objectives and targets are set. Ensure effective implementation of the environmental programme. Oversee internal checks and reviews. Encourage staff to give suggestions and feedback. Communicate the results of the environmental programme with the community.

You can refer to the Environmental Protection Departments publication GreenManagers in Business to find out more information on appointing a green manager.

In general, if all the members in your company take a little bit of effort to help run the programme, you willexperience benefits. To help boost programme participation, the GM can identify enthusiastic colleaguesfrom different levels within the company to help in programme implementation. The staff selected by theGM should be capable of undertaking monitoring tasks and be committed to undertaking environmentalmeasures within your company. One of their key roles is to motivate and support staff members who arerelatively less active in environmental work. The number of individuals chosen to help guide programmeimplementation will depend upon the size of your company and the number of construction sites under yourmanagement. If your company is small in size, you may need only one person to co-ordinate your environmentalprogramme. However, if your company is substantial in size or manages a number of sites, then it would bebest to encourage colleagues from all levels to be involved in your programme and to appoint SiteEnvironmental Representatives in individual sites to coordinate environmental matters of individual sites.

If your GM has enlisted a number of colleagues to help run your programme, these members could form anEnvironmental Task Force. The role of the Task Force would be to decide upon ways to co-ordinateimplementation efforts. The Task Force could meet on a regular basis (e.g. monthly) and discuss the progressof the programme.

2.4 Environmental Communication

An organisation should develop channels that enable effective and timely communication of yourenvironmental message and other useful information. Two-way communication is encouraged and canassume different forms including the following:

Vertical and horizontal communication - among all staff within the organisation; and Communication with customers, business partners and the community.

Green Manager

9Tips - What Should I Do?

Publicize your environmental policy, initiatives and accomplishments (e.g. Notice Board, Newsletter,Annual Report, Intranet/Internet Web page, etc.).

Collect feedback from all levels of staff as well as from customers, business partners and communitymembers that you interact with through various channels.

Recognize and reward staff for their environmental initiatives through performance evaluation, awards, etc.

2.5 Environmental Training

Environmental training can enhance the competence of employeesand lead to overall improvement in organisational performance.

Aims of Environmental Training include:

Ensure all employees are acquainted with the organisations environmental policy and environmental initiatives. Harness a commitment to the implementation of an organisations environmental policy. Secure co-operation in the functioning of the environmental initiatives. Ensure all staff are aware of the legal liabilities associated with their activities, both to themselves and their

employer. Raise staff awareness of the environmental impacts associated with their particular activities. Improve environmental performance and encourage a responsible attitude to environmental protection. Encourage the development of practices that can reduce environmental impacts. Improve communications on environmental issues within the organisation.

Tips - How Should I Conduct Environmental Training?

You should first develop an environmental training plan. When devising an environmental training plan anorganisation will need to decide:

What should be taught? To whom the training should be given? What level of competence is needed?

This can be answered by conducting a Training Needs Assessment. The first step is to assess knowledgeand levels of competence of employees. Staff whose work involve minimal environmental impacts may onlyneed basic awareness training and understanding of the organisations environmental policy and initiatives.For those involved in procedural or operational activities, the assessment should seek to clarify the skillsrequired to perform tasks in an environmentally responsible manner. The next step is to devise a trainingplan to those requiring environmental training in accordance with the training needs identified.

Sample Procedures for Assessing Training Needs

Determine competencies for key roles (education, training or experience level). Compare with education skills and experience of employees. Identify training needs for individual positions (See Training Needs Identification below for reference). Devise and deliver appropriate training. Record details of training given. Check the effectiveness of training in achieving its aim. Revise contents of training material, if necessary.

10

Training Needs Identification (An Example for Reference)

Possible Training Areas Management Supervisory Staff Site WorkersEnvironmental policy General environmental awareness Environmental regulations and requirements Environmental management system Environmental programme establishment Effective environmental communication Licence and permit application Licence and permit conditions Good site practices Proper use of equipment and operational procedures Environmental mitigation measures Environmental monitoring and audit Emergency response plan Green purchasing policy & supplier management Sub-contractor management

2.6 Managing for Continual Improvement

To encourage members of your organisation to strive for continual improvement, you can use a number ofmechanisms to encourage environmental initiatives. A regular check of an organisations environmentalprogramme and the operational practices can usually serve the purpose. Regular checks can help anorganisation: -

Understand the overall effectiveness of the organisations environmental activities or initiatives; Identify appropriate corrective or preventive actions necessary to eliminate the causes of identified problems;

and Identify further environmental initiatives that can be implemented to achieve continual improvement.

Tips - Where Should I Start?

Devise a simple plan that outlines when environmental initiatives will be checked and what procedures willbe followed during each check.

Determine which staff members are most suited to conduct checking on a regular basis and delegate theresponsibility of checking to them.

Document checking reports in an organised, systematic manner so that they can be referred to on aregular basis.

After completion of a check, examine the progress of improvement actions. If necessary, determine whatother appropriate corrective or preventive actions can be taken and implement new measures.

For contracts with specific Environmental Monitoring and Audit (EM&A) requirements, follow the EM&Amanual or relevant documents consistently.

11

Chapter 3 :

Programme and Performance

3.1 Regulatory Compliance

Construction activities in Hong Kong are under control of a number of legal environmental requirements.Construction companies must identify and comply with any relevant legal environmental requirements.Companies should ensure that they are aware of all relevant environmental legislation by establishing suitableprocedures for identifying such requirements and ensuring that key staff have the necessary knowledge toaccess this information.

Tips - How Can I Establish And Maintain A Register Of Environmental RequirementsFor My Construction Operation?

Identify and collect legal information from corporate sources, relevant government authorities andindustry associations.

Establish a register of environmental requirements relevant to your operation based on the informationcollected.

Establish a procedure to ensure that relevant staff have continuous access to the legal requirements. Establish a procedure to ensure relevant information on legal requirements is communicated to employees

effectively. Establish a procedure to keep track of changes to environmental requirements and to update the

environmental requirements accordingly.

Each construction firm will have its own list of relevant environmental requirements to which it must complywith. The list varies from firm to firm depending on a firms peculiar operation. Appendix II is a summary ofenvironmental ordinances, regulations and requirements relevant to construction operation, which is notnecessarily comprehensive and is intended as guidance only. You are advised to consult the relevant ordinances,regulations etc. and/or seek legal advice regarding detailed interpretation.

To better understand the status of compliance with environmental requirements, it is suggested to maintainrecord of non-compliance and compile a monthly Compliance Report for management review. Areas ofregular, repeated or significant non-compliance should be identified and thoroughly remedied by takingappropriate corrective and preventive actions.

3.2 Environmental Programme Implementation

Once management is committed to adopting environmental measures, an environmental programme thatdefines the objectives, targets and schedule of various environmental initiatives can be formulated. Yourenvironmental programme should be designed to meet your organisations specific needs. Setting up yourown environmental programme makes good business sense. Such a programme can streamline operations,cut costs, improve environmental performance and improve your image in the eyes of your staff, partners,regulatory authorities and the public.

The following section outlines the approach you can take to create your environmental programme.

12

Tips- How Do I Design An Environmental Programme?

Understand the Environmental Needs - Carry out an environmental review to determine the status ofyour organisation in relation to the protection of the environment. (Hint : Use the Checklist in AppendixIII in your review). The review results should help to show you what your environmental strengths andweaknesses are and help you to prioritise the actions that you need to take.

Define Your Objectives - Once you have identified the key areas that need improvement, you can begin todetermine which priority areas that you intend to make improvement.

Define Your Targets - According to the objectives, define specific, practicable and measurable targets forimplementation.

Formulate Your Action Plan - Formulate in detail the measures that will be taken to achieve the targets,schedule for implementation and the indicator for progress monitoring. At the same time determine thestaff that will be responsible for undertaking different measures.

Monitor Your Programme - Keep track of the progress of the programme defined. Review your Results - Review monitoring data to identify if improvements are required.

Example of an Environmental Programme

Objective : To reduce the amount of surplus (waste) concrete for ContractNo. XXX

Target : To reduce the amount of surplus (waste) concrete for ContractNo. XXX by 5% by (target completion date)

Actions Responsibility Completion Date Indicator(i) To review Site Manager XXX Evidence of

current concreting schedule andschedule and practices reviewedpractices

(ii) To formulate Site Manager XXX Evidence of rationalisedrationalised concreting schedule and practicesschedule and practices

(iii) To provide Green Manager / XXX Documented trainingstaff training on Site Environmental record (e.g. programmme/operational control Respresentative training materials,

schedule, participation list)

(iv) To conduct Relevant XXX Monitoring schedulemonitoring Supervisors and recordsprogramme onconcreting

Now that you understand how to develop an environmental programme, you can begin to determine themeasures that your company can take. The Hong Kong Construction Association has published a BestPractice Guide for Environmental Protection on Construction Sites - Part I. In addition, the government hasproduced a number of reference materials for the construction industry as indicated in relevant sections ofthis chapter. You can refer to these reference materials in establishing your environmental measures. Therest of this chapter lists a series of salient tips for different environmental considerations that could beimplemented by your company.

13

3.3 Air Pollution Control

Construction sites can be significant sources of air pollutants. Such air pollutants can include (1) particulateor dust emissions from blasting, demolition, drilling, crushing, excavation, vehicle movement, stockpiling andconcrete production; and (2) emissions of smoke, combustibles and volatile organic compounds (VOCs)from construction site equipment and vehicles or the construction process itself (e.g. welding, painting,gluing), with dust generation being the major concern. Companies responsible for the management ofconstruction sites can play a part in facilitating the reduction of air pollution arising from those sites.

Tips - How Can I Control Potential Dust Problem On Construction Sites Under My Management?

The Air Pollution Control (Construction Dust) Regulation has a clear statutory Schedule detailing the dustcontrol requirements for various construction activities. The contractor responsible for a construction sitewhere governed works are being carried out shall ensure that the works are carried out in accordance withthe Schedule. The following tips are essentially highlighted from general good site practices. Where morestringent requirements from the Regulation apply, the contractor should observe these regulatoryrequirements.

Site Preparation

Where a site boundary adjoins a road, street, service lane or other area accessible to the public, providehoarding of not less than 2.4 m on height along the entire length of that portion of the site boundary.

Provide effective dust screen, sheeting or netting to enclose any scaffolding built around the perimeter ofa building.

Materials Handling

Use fixed or mobile water sprays for watering of unpaved areas, access roads, construction areas and dustystockpiles regularly to keep dusty surfaces wet. If necessary, use suitable wetting agents such as dustsuppression chemicals during dry seasons.

Use effective water sprays during the delivery and handling of all raw sand and aggregate,and other similar materials, to dampen all stored materials during dry and windyweather.

Enclose on three sides all stockpiles of sand, aggregate or any other dusty materials,with walls extending above the pile and 1 meter beyond the front of the pile, andapply water in dry or windy conditions whereappropriate.

To fit the conveyor belts within windboards and beltcleaners and to enclose conveyor transfer points andhopper discharge areas to minimize dust emission.

Minimize the heights from which excavatedmaterials are dropped in order to limit fugitive dustgeneration during loading / unloading of these materials.

Where dusty materials are being discharged to vehicles from a conveying systemat a fixed transfer point, provide an enclosure with a flexible curtain across theentry.

Do not operate your plant, activity or process when any air pollution controlsystem or equipment has broken down.

14

Excavation

Ensure that the working area of any excavation or earth moving operation is sprayed with water immediatelybefore, during, and immediately after the operation in order to maintain the entire surface wet.

Properly treat exposed earth by compaction, turfing, hydroseeding, vegetation planting or sealing withlatex, vinyl, bitumen or other suitable surface stabilizer within 6 months after the last construction activityon the construction site.

If spoil, silt or debris has been found deposited on adjacent land, remove all spoil, slit or debris immediatelyand restore the affected land and stream to their natural state.

Store the stockpiles in sheltered areas if spoil cannot be immediately transported out of the sites.

Vehicle Movement

Establish a paved surface which has to be kept clear of loose surface material if there is a regular movementof vehicles.

Restrict all motorized vehicles within construction sites to a maximum speed (e.g. 8 km per hour) andinstall speed limit signage at appropriate locations.

Ensure that vehicle engines are turned off when they are not in use. Confine haulage and delivery vehicles to designated roadways inside the sites. Ensure that vehicles transporting dusty materials are fitted with side and tailboards. Cover materials transported by vehicles, with the cover properly secured and extended over the edges of

the side and tailboards. Dampen dusty materials before transportation. Provide wheel washing facilities, including a high pressure water jet, at the exits from work areas. Provide a hard surface road between any washing facility and the public road. Inspect vehicles regularly to ensure that exhaust emissions are not causing nuisance, such as dark smoke

emission.

Demolition Work

Ensure that the area at which demolition activities take place is sprayed with water immediately prior to,during, and immediately after the demolition activities in order to maintain the entire area wet.

Use impervious dust screens or sheeting to enclose the whole wall to a height of at least 1 meter higherthan the highest level of the structure being demolished.

Cover all demolished items that may dislodge dust particles entirely by impervious sheeting or place themin an area sheltered on the top and the 3 sides.

Wet with water any dusty materials remaining after a stockpile is removed and clear them away from thesurface of roads or streets.

Follow the Code of Practice on the Handling, Transportation and Disposal of Asbestos Waste published byEnvironmental Protection Department if asbestos containing materials are found in the buildings or structures.

Drilling and Blasting

Ensure watering is undertaken to reduce dust emission where breaking of rock or concrete is required. Ensure that wire meshes, gunny sacks, sandbags, blast nets and other appropriate covers are used on top

of the blast area on each shot to prevent the flying off of rocks and to suppress dust generation. Wet areas with water in the vicinity of blasting operation (e.g. 30m from the blasting area) before blasting

is conducted. Do not carry out blasting (or any other dust generating activity) when environmental conditions are such

that dust generation will be exacerbated (e.g. when the strong wind signal or tropical cyclone warningsignal No. 3 or a higher cyclone signal is in effect).

15

Tips - How Can I Control Potential Emissions Of Smoke And Combustibles On Construction SitesUnder My Management?

Do not carry out open burning for the purpose of clearance of a site in preparation for construction workor for the disposal of construction waste.

Consider the use of low emission products and materials. If a power generator is used on-site, maintain it regularly and properly to avoid dark smoke emission.

Suggested further readings :

- Cut Down Construction Dust issued by Environmental ProtectionDepartment

- Environmental Asbestos Control issued by Environmental ProtectionDepartment

- Recommended Pollution Control Clauses for Construction Contractsissued by Environmental Protection Department

3.4 Noise Control

Construction sites can be significant sources of noise emissions. Noise generating activitieson a construction site can include road laying/breaking/drilling, loading, unloading or handlingof rubble, compacting, concrete mixing & pumping, hammering, site clearance, scaffold erection and removal. Excessive noise can be irritating and harmful to human health. Companies responsible for themanagement of construction sites should take measures to minimise noise arising from those sites.

Tips - What Can I Do To Reduce Noise Problems?

Planning

Avoid noisy activities at restricted hours (weekdays : 1900-0700 hrs or holidays whole day). Restrict night time working to low noise activities to ensure no exceedance of acceptable noise level. Avoid simultaneous operation of several noisy activities close to a receiver to reduce cumulative impacts. Schedule noisy activities at times when dwellings are more likely to remain unoccupied. Consider mitigation measures or alternative plant as detailed below:

Plant Noise Mitigative Measures Alternative Plant

Hammer drive Enclose hammer head and Bored piling using crane or tripodpiling equipment top of pile in acoustic screen. winch vibratory system.

Use resilient pad betweenpile & hammer.

Earth-moving plant Fit more efficient mufflers. Super silenced plant may be(e.g. dump truck) Enclosure panel kept closed & available from manufacturers.

lined with 50mm fiberglass Use conveyors rather thantrucks and dumpers.

Compressors & Fit more efficient mufflers. Super silenced plant may begenerators Enclosure panel kept closed & available from manufacturers.

lined with 50mm fiberglass Electric-powered compressorsare available.

16

Employ off-site concrete batching plant rather than on-site production, whenever appropriate. Dispose of rubble through plastic (rubber) chutes instead of metal chutes (or use rubber linings in chutes

and dumpers to reduce impact noise). Use particular models of powered mechanical equipment (PME) that are quieter than standard types given

in Technical Memorandum on Noise from Construction Work Other Than Percussive Piling. Examples of soundpower levels for specific silenced PME, which are known to be available in Hong Kong, are given below :

Items of Powered Mechanical Equipment Sound Power Level (dB(A))

Bulldozer 110 dB(A) max

Breaker (Hand-held) 110 dB(A) max

Compressors 100 dB(A) max

Concrete pumps 105 dB(A) max

Dump truck 109 dB(A) max

Excavator 105 dB(A) max

Generator 100 dB(A) max

Lorry 105 dB(A) max

Loader 105 dB(A) max

Poker vibrator 110 dB(A) max

Control of Noise Propagation

Use one or more of the following noise propagation measures.- Erect noise barriers either close to sources or receivers that can achieve a noise reduction of 5-10dB(A);- Construct silencer baffles or sound proof enclosure, whenever technically feasible, to enclose noisy site

activities;- Erect partial enclosures at sources that can achieve a noise reduction of up to 15dB(A);- Provide full enclosures fitted with sufficient ventilation at noise sources that can achieve a noise

reduction of more than 20dB(A). Properly maintain noise barriers and enclosures to ensure that they are free of gaps. Measure the general construction noise at critical locations at regular intervals with hand held noise

monitoring instruments.

Good Site Practices

Locate equipment away from receivers (doubling distance will result in a 6dB(A) reduction). Position equipment that emits excessive noise in one direction (e.g. ventilation fan) such that noise is

directed away from nearby receivers. Locate equipment behind large obstruction (e.g. site offices, containers, soil mounds, material stockpiles). Avoid prolonged operation of noisy equipment close to dwellings and schools. Switch off or throttle down equipment when not required. Regular maintenance of all plant and equipment to avoid noise from abnormal operation (e.g. check

efficiency of mufflers, lubricate bearings). Avoid steep gradients of internal haul routes. Minimise drop height of materials. Start up plant & vehicles sequentially rather than all together. Ensure engine panels are closed.

17


- Environmental Protection Department Practice Note for ProfessionalPersons (Noise from Construction Activities - Statutory)(ProPECC PN 1/93)

- Environmental Protection Department Practice Note for ProfessionalPersons (Noise from Construction Activities - Non-statutory Controls)(ProPECC PN 2/93)

- Environmental Protection Department Practice Note for ProfessionalPersons (Use of Quiet Construction Equipment for Road Opening Worksduring Non-Sociable Hours) (ProPECC PN 1/96)


3.5 Water Pollution Control

Construction activities may potentially cause water pollution from dredging/filling activities and,construction run-off and drainage. These activities may cause physical, chemical and biological effects. Thephysical effects could arise from any increase in suspended solids from the site which could cause blockageof drainage channels and associated local flooding when heavy rainfall occurs. Possible chemical effects mayinclude localised increases in turbidity and discolouration, localised elevations in pH and accretion of pHsolids. They may also cause biological effects to marine biota due to elevated pH values, reduced decay ratesof faecal microorganisms due to decreased light penetration, and a localised increase in the proportion ofunionised ammonia.

Water Conservation

Minimising consumption of water in construction sites not only cuts down the water cost, but also reducesthe burden and cost of wastewater treatment. Companies operating the construction activities shouldfirstly consider ways to conserve water, and then adopt measures to control discharge of wastewater.

Tips - How Can I Conserve Water?

When employing a sub-contractor, include language in construction documents thatpromotes water conservation and holds the sub-contractor financially responsiblefor resource consumption.

Monitor water usage to identify areas of waste and abuse, then reduceresource consumption and cost.

Install flow restrictors, automatic shut off-systems andappliances for reduced water use duringconstruction.

Reuse captured stormwater and/or constructionwastewater on the construction site.

Recycle wastewater from wheel washing bayor treatment facilities of the concrete batchingplant.

18

Dredging, Transport and Dumping of Marine Mud

Dredging practices create a number of environmental concerns including:

Direct effects on the local hydrodynamic environment e.g. intrusion of salt wedge further upstream,increased shoreline wave action, changes to tidal range and tidal current.

Re-suspension and settlement of sediment on sensitive aquatic ecosystems which can have impacts on thediversity and growth rate of the flora and fauna. Problems arise in particular where contaminatedsediments which were locked into the seabed are released by the dredging process.

Where underwater blasting is involved, explosive charges used to break up rock formations can destroybottom habitats, injure or disable marine life, force mobile marine life to move from the blasting site anddamage shorezone bulkhead structures.

Tips - How Can I Control And Minimise The Environmental Impacts Of Dredging, Transport andDumping Of Marine Mud?

Apply for, and comply with conditions of, dumping permits obtained from the Environmental ProtectionDepartment.

Knowledge of the areas hydrography (tidal and river flows) prior to starting work is essential in identifyingareas most likely to be affected by the work.

Use silt curtains if practical to limit the dispersion of sediments. Underwater blasting schedule should take into account migratory pathways of important fisheries. Pay attention to proximity and condition of nearby shorezones, bulkheads and other structures to ensure

that use of explosives in underwater blasting does not pose a threat to their integrity. Determine whether possible current pattern changes will jeopardize or encourage resettlement of the

original bottom life and associated fishery resources. Design and maintain all equipment to minimise the risk of release of silt and other contaminants into the

water column or locations other than designated location. Use properly sized vessels to allow adequate clearance between vessels and the seabed at all states of tide

to avoid undue turbidity caused by turbulence from vessel movement or propeller action. Maintain adequate freeboard on barges to ensure that decks are not washed by wave action. Monitor all vessels transporting material to avoid deliberate dumping of dredged material outside the

approved location or loss of material during transportation. Conduct marine monitoring at the downstream location of the dumping site where applicable. Follow any additional government requirements if contaminated marine mud is handled. Consider the practical availability of alternative land-based methods of treatment or disposal to render the

matter less harmful for dumping at sea.

Land-based Activities

Land-based construction works may have the potential to cause water pollution if uncontrolled. Potentialsources of water pollution from land-based constructionsite run-off may include :

Run-off from site surfaces, drainage channels, earthworking area and stockpiles.

Contaminated groundwater from any dewateringactivities.

Water spray for dust removal. Wash water from site cleaning and vehicle wheel

cleaning facilities.

19

Water and sewage from toilet and kitchens. Release of any bentonite slurries and other grouting materials with run-off, storm water or groundwater

dewatering process. Release of fuel, oil and lubricants from maintenance of construction vehicles and equipment.

Tips - How Can I Control Wastewater Discharged At The Land Based Construction Sites UnderMy Management?

Provide information and/or training to all site workers on the effluent discharge routes and points andwastewater management facilities at the site.

Instruct workers to properly collect, handle and dispose of debris and rubbish on site to prevent thesewastes from entering into nearby storm drain/watercourse.

Collect spent bentonite slurries or other grouts in slurry collection system for reconditioning and reusewherever practicable.

Install secondary containment for hazardous material storage areas (e.g. fuel tanks) with a capacity equal to110% of the volume of the largest tank.

Minimise exposed soil areas to reduce potential for contamination of run-off due to increased siltation orerosion.

Stabilise all exposed earth as soon as possible after completion of earthworks Identify, mark and surround the boundary of any critical areas of earthworks (e.g. relatively low-level areas)

by dykes or embankments for flood protection. Where there is a watercourse running through the work area, construct dykes along segments of the

watercourse to prevent washing of earth into the watercourse. Provide a site drainage system that may comprise temporary ditches, drainage pipes and/or culverts to

collect site run-off for treatment. Route wastewater from concrete mixing/batching areas to a properly designated effluent treatment system. Provide adequate sanitary facilities (e.g. portable chemical toilets, septic tanks for holding discharge from

toilets, bathrooms and kitchens) and employ licensed contractor to collect contents of these toilets/septictanks for disposal.

Maintain all sanitary facilities in good and running conditions (e.g. clean all the sedimentation facilitiesperiodically or after rainstorms).

Implement appropriate precautionary actions whenever a rainstorm is likely or imminent. Cover the open stockpiles of construction materials (e.g. aggregates, excavated materials, sand and fill

materials) with tarpaulin or similar fabric during rainstorms or arrange for other measures to prevent thewashing away of construction materials, soil, silt or debris into any nearby drainage system.

Ensure that all manholes at the sites are adequately covered and temporarily sealed to prevent washingdown of silt or debris into the drainage system.

Provide an adequately designed wheel washing bay which should have a wash water collection basin forremoval of settle and silt at every site exit.

Ensure that all vehicles be cleaned by the wheel washing bay prior to leaving the construction site.


- Environmental Protection Department Practice Note for ProfessionalPersons (Construction Site Drainage) (ProPECC PN 1/94)

- Recommended Pollution Control Clauses for Construction Contracts issuedby Environmental Protection Department

20

3.6 Waste Management

About 7,460 tonnes of construction and demolition waste are disposed of at landfills each day in Hong Kong,constituting some 42% of the total daily solid waste generation in Hong Kong. These include excess concrete,bricks, metals and aggregate, plastic packaging and other plastic products, plasterboard and plaster and paperand cardboard. Landfills are quickly becoming full. However, since land in Hong Kong is a precious and scarcecommodity, there is little space for the creation of new landfills. A portion of the waste that is generatedevery day can be reduced through reuse or recycling (for use as another product). Construction companiesare encouraged to develop a Waste Management Plan detailing waste avoidance, reduction, treatment anddisposal measures for any construction site. The following section outlines measures that can be taken toreduce the amount of waste that ends up in landfills.

(1) Construction & Demolition Waste

Tips - How Can I Manage Construction And Demolition Waste Effectively?

Avoidance

Purchase materials in a manner that minimises waste and unnecessary costs. For example, size of materialspurchased should agree with the dimensions of structure to avoid excessive cut-offs.

Implement measures to minimise over-ordering and then wastage of materials such as concrete, mortarsand cement grouts.

Check consistency of drawings and specifications to avoid unnecessary hacking-off of concrete or un-wanted work.

Use durable, reusable hoarding to replace timber hoarding. Use precast concrete units produced at a casting yard with high degree of quality control. Use steel formworks as far as possible. Use standard wooden panels for high reuse level if timber formworks are unavoidable. Use interior drywall partition that requires low level of skill and is easy to install. Practice effective material control to minimise material loss and ensure the efficient use of resources.

Examples are provided below:

Concrete loss control

Calculate the exact amount of ready-mix concrete required Try to minimise spillage of concrete onto floor while concreting Control the slab thickness by controlling the quantity of concrete Reuse residual concrete for road paving or fabricating other concrete

products Maintain proper record of concrete usage

Steel reinforcement loss control

Review steel bar plan and bending and cutting schedule Calculate and order the exact amount of steel reinforcement required Monitor the bar cutting process Calculate and record the ratio of loss of steel reinforcement Collect residual steel bar for recycling

21

Tiles loss control

Calculate the quantity of tiles required according to plans Establish unit consumption of tiles Monitor unit consumption of tiles Properly package residual tiles for reuse in different cycles of works Calculate and record loss ratio of tiles

Storage, Collection and Transport

Ensure that any waste construction/demolition materials are cleared as quickly as possible after demolitionto minimise potential dust and water impacts.

Use a designated area for temporary waste storage and subsequent segregation for ease of handling. Ensure that any waste construction/demolition materials are properly covered to minimise windblown

litter and dust during transportation.

Reuse, Recovery and Recycle

Develop a plan for an on-site reuse, recovery and recycling system for waste materials. For example:- Collect spent bentonite slurries or other grouts in slurry collection system for reconditioning and

reuse whenever practicable;- Use pulverized fuel ash ;- Resale of scrap metals;- Arrange waste collectors to retrieve waste with recyclable values.

Instruct workers to adopt recycling and re-use of materials salvaged from demolition. Track the actual wastes produced from construction and measure waste-generation levels against project

guidelines for materials recycling and reuse.

Treatment and Disposal

Deliver by licensed waste contractors inert materials to approved public filling areas. Maintain delivery or pick-up records.

(2) Excavated Materials

Tips - How Can I Manage Excavated Materials Effectively?

Avoidance

Ensure that excavation works are carried out in a controlled manner to avoid excessive excavated materials.


Use excavated materials for backfilling, slope stabilization and reclamation. Transport excavated materials to other sites for reuse. Maintain records of the quantity of excavated materials to be reused on-site or off-site.

22


Ensure that contaminated mud generated on-site is disposed of at designated contaminated mud pits.

(3) Chemical Waste

Tips - How Can I Manage Chemical Waste Effectively?

Avoidance

Research alternative products and practices which generatereduced quantities or less dangerous types of chemical waste.


Ensure that chemical wastes generated by the construction works are properly labelled, packaged andtemporarily stored in a designated chemical waste storage area.

Ensure that storage is in accordance with the Environment Protection Departmnets Code of Practice on thePackaging, Handling and Storage of Chemicals.

Develop and implement a contingency plan to deal with potential spillage or accidents in the chemicalwaste storage area.


Research with your supplier whether waste chemicals can be returned to them for reuse, recovery orrecycling.


Employ a licensed chemical waste collector to collect and dispose of the chemical wastes at licensedchemical waste disposal facilities.

Maintain records of the type and quantity of chemical waste removed from the site.

(4) General Refuse

Tips - How Can I Manage General Refuse Effectively?

Avoidance

Use products and materials with reduced packaging and/or encourage manufacturers to reuse or recycletheir original packaging materials.


Ensure that general refuse is stored in waste skips and garbage bins with proper covers.


Encourage staff to use reusable dishware. Reuse paper printed on one side only. Provide recycling bins for paper, aluminium cans and plastic bottles if the volumes are large enough to

warrant such collection.

23


Employ a reputable waste collector to remove general refuse from the site to approved public landfillspreferably daily to minimise odour, pest and litter impacts.

Maintain delivery or pick-up records.

(5) Contaminated Material

Sites previously used for petrol filling stations, boatyards and vehicle repair/dismantling workshops and otherindustrial activities could be contaminated as a result of the historical operations carried out on the sites.

Tips - How Can I Manage Contaminated Waste Effectively?

Implement clean-up works of contaminated land in accordance with the appropriate procedures as laiddown in any remediation action plan endorsed by the Environmental Protection Department.

Appoint authorised or licensed waste hauliers for the collection, transport and disposal of contaminatedsoil only.

Suitably cover the vehicles transporting contaminated materials with their tailgates sealed to limit potentialdust emissions.

Dispose of contaminated materials at authorised disposal facilities only.

(6) Asbestos Wastes

If asbestos waste is identified during demolition works, it should be handled and disposed of in accordancewith the Environmental Protection Departments Code of Practice on the Handling, Transportation and Disposalof Asbestos Waste.

Tips - How Can I Manage Asbestos Waste Effectively?


Ensure that the storage of asbestos waste should be at secured, isolated areas with warning signs to alertpeople of the presence of asbestos waste.

Appoint appropriately licensed contractors for the collection of asbestos waste. Transport asbestos waste to disposal sites by enclosed skips on open lorries or enclosed vehicles.

Disposal

Dispose of all asbestos waste at designated disposal facilities only.


- Code of Practice on the Packaging, Labelling and Storage of Chemical Wastesissued by Environmental Protection Department


24

3.7. Energy Conservation

Construction projects typically use large quantities of energy resources. Responsible management of energyresources reduces not only operation cost but also environmental impact. Electricity is the main form ofenergy used on most construction sites in Hong Kong. Hong Kongs electricity is primarily generated throughthe combustion of coal and gas. Both coal and gas are natural resources that will eventually run out.Furthermore, coal burning can result in the release of undesirable air pollutants. Actions to reduceelectricity use will result in the preservation of natural resources. Many measures can be taken to reduce theuse of energy, most of which involve simple yet effective practices that require minimal time and effort fromeveryone.

Tips - How Can I Conserve Energy On Construction Sites Under My Management?

When employing a sub-contractor, include language in construction documents that promotes energyconservation and holds the sub-contractor financially responsible for energy consumption.

Monitor energy usage to identify main areas of energy use and loss, then reduce resource consumptionand cost.

Determine and implement measures to reduce the amount of energy consumed on-site. These couldinclude:- Install temporary lighting so that most other lighting can be turned off during non-construction hours;- Install motion sensors for security lighting;- Use energy efficient lamps and equipment for temporary lighting.

3.8 Housekeeping

In general, the appearance and condition of the construction sites that you manage will determine theworking environment for your site staff and the public perception of your company. An orderly and cleanconstruction site is synonymous with good health and safety standards. All site staff and occupants ofsurrounding facilities appreciate a safe work and living environment. In addition, many construction andassociated materials (high emission paints and glues, drywall compounds, fuel for construction plant) havethe potential to cause harm, to site workers and the environment, if they are not handled and storedcorrectly. Thus, good cleaning, material storage and waste handling and removal procedures are importantstrategies in creating a healthy and safe working environment whilst at the same time reducing your impacton the environment as a whole.

Tips - How Can I Handle And Store Materials Effectively?

Provide dedicated areas on the construction site for the storage of materials. This is particularly importantfor materials with the potential to harm people and the environment. Signage indicating the storage ofpotentially harmful materials should also be displayed in these areas.

Store potentially harmful materials with roofed, secondary containment to ensure that any spills arecontained and to minimise contaminated stormwater run-off.

Keep an inventory of all products stored on-site. This is particularly important for products with thepotential to harm people and the environment.

Obtain Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) from material suppliers and keep them on-site whereemployees can access them.

Post signs to inform site workers of good practices for handling and storing materials.

25

3.9 Other Environmental Considerations

In some special construction projects, there may be some other environmental concerns. Theseenvironmental concerns may include :

Heritage and Ecological Resources Direct habitat loss of the habitants or disturbance of the habitats due to increased human activities. Direct or indirect impact to the wildlife inhabiting the areas. Potential damage of any heritage resources.

Landscape and Visual Considerations Visual incompatibility with surroundings. Visual obstruction such as blocking of views.

Tips - How Can I Address The Heritage, Ecological, Landscape And Visual Considerations OnConstruction Sites Under My Management?

Inform appropriate authorities if any objects suspected to be antiquities, archaeological remains ordeposits are discovered.

Instruct workers to avoid disturbing any flora, fauna and habitats outside site areas. Properly control night time lighting to minimise nuisance to neighbouring residents. Erect screen hoarding and fencing around the site boundary. Follow relevant requirements on height of temporary structures.

26

Chapter 4 :

Partner SynergyYour relationship with your clients, suppliers, contractors and the general community often shapes yourenvironmental programmes. This chapter provides some suggestions on how to develop these relationships.Whether these suggestions are implemented will often depend on the business case for suchimplementation and will be specific to your company.

4.1 Clients

Clients Needs

When approaching construction from a sustainable perspective, your client should ensure that theconstruction contract and specifications address the design and construction teams environmentalrequirements for the construction process. Being a construction contractor many of these issues andpractices are typically under your direct control. You are therefore in a strong position to influence yourclient and show how meeting environmental performance standards can be synonymous with meeting projectobjectives.

When bidding for a project, you should :

Identify the potential environmental impacts clearly and include environmental items in budgeting; Programme your construction work practically with due consideration of time required for environmental

provisions; and Express your companys environmental commitment, environmental organisation & resources,

environmental programmes and your alternative green construction methods, etc. in the tender documents.

Inclusion of the above items in tender documents may also gain a higher chance of success in tender bidding,especially if contracts are awarded from an environmentally conscious client.

Clients Support

Teamwork is the key ingredient in a successful construction project. Together, a buildings or sites owner,architect, engineers and contractor should develop environmental guidelines, plans, goals and practices forthe construction process. This joint approach will ensure that the all involved parties will understand andembrace a projects goals and specifications before the work begins. Your environmental programme willhave a higher chance of success if it is co-designed with all the involved parties whose participation isnecessary for the programme to succeed. You are also suggested to report your environmentalperformance to your clients, solicit feedback from them and take appropriate actions in response to theirfeedback whenever appropriate.

27

4.2 Suppliers and Contractors

Employing Green Sub-Contractors

If you need to employ sub-contractors to undertake specialist work as part of the construction project, youshould ensure that where possible their performance standards meet the requirements of yourenvironmental programme. You may include in your sub-contract tender documents statements requiringthe sub-contractor to comply with environmental regulations and other requirements pertaining to thesub-contract work.

Tips - How Can I Select Green Sub-Contractors?

When evaluating sub-contractors bids for work, consider whether they have an environmental programmein place. If not included in their bid for work, contact them to discuss whether they have such a programmein place and if they do what it includes.

If none of the contractors available to you have their own environmental programmes in place, incorporateenvironmental guidelines and responsibilities into their contract to work and monitor their specificcompliance for the duration of their contract. Indicate in these guidelines and statements of responsibilitiesany environmental practices required by environmental regulations.

Using Your Buying Power

You can contribute to environmental protection by purchasing products that will result in a reduction inenvironmental impact. Every product that you purchase, every construction site that you manage andultimately every resulting building has the potential to pollute the environment. You can reduce theenvironmental impacts and generate savings by making careful purchasing decisions.

Tips - How Can I Select Green Products?

General rules for environmentally responsible product purchasing include:

Avoid purchasing disposable items as much as possible. Purchase products and materials with recycled content, as appropriate and consistent with construction

plans and specification and health recommendations Buy products and materials with reduced packaging and/or encourage manufacturers to reuse or recycle

their original packaging materials Purchase products that are reusable or contain reusable parts such as durable, reusable hoarding, and

rechargeable batteries. Buy products that can be recycled, such as uncoated paper bags that can be easily recycled. Buy products that reduce the use of resources. For example, energy efficient light fixtures should be

purchased over less energy efficient options. Choose products that are designed to last longer than conventional items and are easy to repair instead of

replace. Choose to purchase products that contain fewer toxic pollutants such as low pollution water-based paint.

By using these types of products it will help to reduce safety hazards in the workplace. Support the purchase of products that bear certified eco-labels. Buy goods in bulk quantities to avoid excessive individual packaging.

28

Purchasing procedures

If your company has a purchasing department, it should be devoted to purchasing products and materialsthat are environmentally friendly. If the department does not have any policy guiding the purchase ofproducts, encourage them to design one that favours their purchasing of environmentally friendly products.This policy should be made known to suppliers and contractors.

Encourage those colleagues responsible for purchasing goods to conduct simple research into heavily usedproducts and materials that could be substituted by other more environmentally friendly options.

Encourage employees and contractors to suggest products that are known to be more environmentallyfriendly than what you are currently using.

Encourage ethical purchasing, the practice of avoiding products that have been created as a result ofenvironmental degradation. For example, do not buy products that have been manufactured out of rainforestwood since the destruction of these forests contribute to many environmental problems including globalwarming, deforestation, biodiversity loss and more.

Communication and Motivation

Once you have taken environmental measures in managing your business, you should share your effortswith others. Your suppliers and sub-contractors deserve to learn about the positive actions that you arenow taking. Knowledge of your environmental programme is valuable to others since seeing youraccomplishments can motivate them to establish their own programme. In some instances, your partnersmay have no knowledge of the benefits of establishing such a programme. In other instances, they may beinterested in starting up their own programme yet they need some initial guidance as to how to begin. It istherefore important that your experience is made available to interested parties. By assuming a proactivestance you will encourage others to learn about environmental protection and give your organisation moreexposure within the business community.

Tips - Communicating With Sub-contractors

Some sub-contractors that you employ may not be likely to implement environmental practices unless theyinvolve almost no additional costs, have been required contractually, or they are economically beneficial tothe sub-contractor. Sub-contractors may therefore need education about environmentally preferablepractices in order to take advantage of them. Help the sub-contractor understand that an environmentallypreferable process can be more economical than, or equivalent in cost to, a conventional one and can beimplemented without a regulatory or contractual requirement.

Tips - Communicating With Suppliers

A sound environmental programme will demand that, amongst others, you purchase and use environmentallyfriendly products whenever possible. Therefore, it is important that your suppliers and other relevantpartners are made aware of your programme requirements and are capable of meeting your needs. Thereare a number of activities that you can undertake to clearly communicate your requirements to your suppliers.

You should inform suppliers of your environmental policy and provide them with your purchasing guidelines. If you have a long-standing established relationship with your suppliers, you can work with them to help

capture the type of products that you seek at a competitive price. The best approach you can take is to askyour suppliers to identify environmentally friendly products that can be substituted for those you currentlyuse (at a comparable price). This will also help to boost the suppliers business since they will now becapable of supplying other purchasers with environmentally sound products.

Encourage suppliers to provide you with documentation that guarantees the environmentally friendlyauthenticity of the products that you are purchasing.

29

4.3 General Community

Joining Hands with the Community

Everyone in Hong Kong experiences the effects of pollution. Many people would like to help to improveenvironmental quality, however, not everyone knows how to get involved. As a green constructioncontractor, you deal with environmental management issues on a daily basis. You are in an advantageousposition to help guide community greening efforts. By helping the general community, in return, you cangain satisfaction through knowing that your efforts can improve the environment and give you goodstanding within the general community. Furthermore, taking simple initiatives including efforts to reportthe lessons that you have learnt in setting up your programme and other useful information can help inraising community awareness. There are a number of ways that you can get involved.

Visit your site neighours (e.g. local schools, residential blocks, local groups, etc.) and explain to theirrepresentatives details of the construction project and environmental measures adopted by theconstruction company to minimise nuisance to them.

Establish an Environmental Hotline to receive environmental complaints and suggestions forimprovement in environmental performance.

Get involved and support local initiatives. Organising tree planting campaigns. Report on your environmental initiatives within magazines

and other publications. Apply for awards to gain formalised

recognition of your efforts.

H

otline

30

Chapter 5 :

Working Your Way Towards

Green Construction

5.1 Cultivating a Green Construction Culture

A sustainable construction company operates in such a way that they meet the needs and demands of all itsstakeholders. One of the keys to business success lies in effective communication. Communication betweena construction company and its stakeholders can result in greater stakeholder confidence in the companysability to address potential environmental impacts resulting from its operations. Furthermore, bycommunicating the message that your company seeks to minimise and eliminate negative environmentalimpacts, you demonstrate to stakeholders your strong environmental responsibility.

The previous chapters of this guidebook have explained to you various practicable environmental measuresthat you may adopt in managing your construction sites. A checklist for self-assessment is provided inAppendix III to assist construction companies in examining whether or not these measures have beenproperly accounted in construction sites.

5.2 Keep up the Good Work

Creating an environmental programme can be made easier if you get a little help. In Appendix IV of thisguidebook is a list of organisations that you can contact for advice. Many of them have provided practicalinformation that may help you improve the environmental performance of your construction sites. Byadopting green practices you are on your way to improving environmental quality and reaping the benefits ofyour actions. You are one of a number of companies that care about our environment and people will noticeand respect your efforts. Once your programme is up and running you will be amazed at just how easy it isto turn your construction sites green. We encourage you to voice your commitment to the environmentin all aspects of business; this can include applying for available awards or environmental certifications orlending a helping hand within your community. Keep up the good work!

31

Appendix 1 -Examples of Local Environmental

Construction Initiatives

Hong Kong

1. Environmental Protection Department (http://www.info.gov.hk/epd)

The Environmental Protection Department (EPD) has produced a number of Technical Memoranda,reference booklets, fact sheets relating to various environmental aspects for the construction industry. Inparticular, the EPD has prepared a document called Recommended Pollution Control Clauses forConstruction Contracts which describe good engineering practices to minimise environmental nuisance tonearby residents and other sensitive receivers. In addition, the EPD formed with other relevant professionalbodies the Professional Persons Environmental Consultative Committee (ProPECC) to provide a forum forthe exchange of views on all environmental matters related to the duties and practice of architects, engineers,planners, surveyors and developers. The ProPECC has examined a wide range of issues and has published anumber of ProPECC Practice Notes (PNs) which have been widely distributed to professionals andorganisations in relevant fields. Some ProPECC PNs of particular relevance to construction operation are :

PN 1/93 - Noise from Construction Activities - Statutory PN 2/93 - Noise from Construction Activities - Non-statutory PN 1/94 - Construction Site Drainage PN 3/94 - Contaminated Land Assessment And Remediation PN 1/96 - Use of Quiet Construction Equipment for Road Opening Works during Non-Sociable Hours PN 2/97 - Handling of Asbestos Containing Materials in Buildings

2. Hong Kong Construction Association (http://www.hkca.com.hk)

The Hong Kong Construction Association (HKCA), formerly Building Contractors Association, wasestablished in 1920 with the aim of improving the construction industrys standards in Hong Kong. TheHKCA has set up an Environmental Committee to review relevant environmental issues in different areas ofoperation and to make proposals to government on matters affecting the industry. The HKCA has producedthe Best Practice Guide for Environmental Protection on Construction Sites - Part I for the industry.

32

Appendix II -Environmental Ordinances / Regulations /

Technical Memorandum (TM) Relevant toConstruction Operation

Ordinance / Regulations /Technical Memorandum (TM)

Description of Relevant Requirements Areas of Applicability

Air Quality

Air Pollution ControlOrdinance(Cap 311)

The Ordinance provides for the control of airpollution from all premises from which air pollutantsare emitted from any chimney, engine, furnace, ovenor industrial plant. Levels of pollutants are regulatedaccording to Air Quality objectives.

Also provides for the control of air pollutants when inthe opinion of the Authority the pollutant constitutesa nuisance. Control is achieved by issuing anAbatement Notice.

Use of diesel, fuel,dust emittingconstruction activities,smoke emissions fromgenerators (refer toregulations below).

Technical Memorandum forIssuing Air PollutionAbatement Notices to ControlAir Pollution from StationaryPolluting Processes

Specifies principles, methods, standards and guidelinesfor assessing air pollution from stationary pollutingsources.

Air Pollution Control(Fuel Restriction) Regulations

The purpose of the regulation is to restrict the sulphurcontent of both liquid and solid fuels used by industryin order to minimise SO2 emissions to atmosphere.

These regulations prohibit the use of fuel with highsulphur content by industry throughout the SAR.Liquid fuels with a sulphur content of more than 0.5%by weight and with a viscosity of more that 6 centistokesat 40 degrees Celsius, or of solid fuels with a sulphurcontent of more than 1% by weight are prohibited fromuse.

Use of diesel fuel forstationery combustionsources e.g. dieselgenerators.

Air Pollution Control (Smoke)Regulations

These regulations control smoke emissions fromstationary combustion sources including chimney,ovens, and furnaces.

The regulations stipulate that dark smoke emissions(i.e. smoke which is as dark or darker than No.1 onthe Ringlemann Chart) from any relevant plant mustnot exceed :- 6 minutes in a period of 4 hours; or 3 minutes continuously at any one time.

Use of fuel-poweredmachineryeg. diesel generator,air compressor, bulldozerand crane.

Air Pollution Control (SpecifiedProcesses) Regulations

The regulations provide details of the licensingrequirements of new specified processes andregistration of existing ones.

Carrying outcement works.

Air Pollution Control(Specified Processes)(Removal of Exemption)Order 1993 and 1994

Removes the exemption granted to the owner ofpremises for conduct of certain specified processes.

33



Air Quality (contd)

Air Pollution Control(Dust and Grit Emission)Regulations

The regulations stipulate the emission standards,procedures and requirements for assessing particulateemissions from stationary combustion sources.

Use of diesel fuel forstationary combustionsources e.g. generator.

Air Pollution Control(Vehicle Design Standards)(Emission) Regulations

The regulations specify emission standards for vehicleengines.

Purchase/use of vehicles.

Air Pollution Control(Asbestos) (Administration)Regulation

The regulation provides for the qualifications and feesfor registration of asbestos consultants, contractors,supervisors and laboratories.

Handling of Asbestos.

Air Pollution Control(Open Burning) Regulation

The regulation prohibits open burning of constructionwaste, tyres and cables for metal salvage.

General site activities.

Air Pollution Control(Construction Dust)Regulation

The regulation specifies mitigation (dust suppressionmeasures) for specific types of construction worksincluding road opening and re-surfacing works and otherregulatory works including building construction.

Carrying out dust-emitting constructionactivities e.g. roadopening and resurfacingworks, buildingconstruction works etc.

Ozone Protection LayerOrdinance (Cap 403)

Gives effect to Hong Kongs international obligationsunder the 1985 Vienna Convention and the 1987Montreal Protocol. Requirements relate to restrictingthe import, export and manufacture of ozone depletingsubstances.

A phase out programme for ozone depleting(scheduled) substances is stipulated.

See also A Guide to the Control of Ozone DepletingChemicals in Hong Kong

Use of scheduledsubstances for airconditioners (includingR12 and R22).

Ozone Layer Protection(Controlled Refrigerants)Regulations

Controls the release of Controlled refrigerants intothe atmosphere from large-scale installations andmotor vehicles.

Bans the venting of Controlled Refrigerants (CFC-11,CFC-12, CFC-115) used in large-scale refrigeration(>50kg refrigerant charge) and motor vehicles toatmosphere. Any person who allows any controlledrefrigerant used for refrigeration equipment or amotor vehicle to escape into the atmosphere commitsan offence.

See also A Concise Guide to the Ozone Layer Protection(Controlled Refrigerants) Regulations

Use of Controlledrefrigerants (R12) forair-conditioningsystems.

34



Noise Emissions

Noise Control Ordinance(Cap 400)

Provision of statutory controls to restrict and reducethe nuisance caused by environmental noise. TheOrdinance deals with noise from industrial premisesconstruction sites as well as from intruder alarmsystems.

NOISE FROM INDUSTRIAL PREMISES:-Noise emanating from places such as industrial,commercial, trade or business premises is controlledby means of a Noise Abatement Notice.

The means whereby the authority assesses whether anAbatement Notice is required are stipulated in aTechnical Memorandum.

Noise generated fromoffice operation.

Noise from industrial andcommercial premises aswell as constructionactivities. (Refer toTechnical Memorandumand Regulations below)

Technical Memorandum forthe Assessment of Noise fromPlaces Other than DomesticPremises, Public Places orConstruction Sites

This memorandum contains technical procedures to befollowed by the Authority when investigating a noisecomplaint concerning commercial/ industrial premisesas part of the decision as to whether to serve a noiseabatement notice. Compliance with Acceptable NoiseLevels will only be required after a noise abatementnotice has been served.

NOISE FROM CONSTRUCTION WORKS:Construction works are controlled through aConstruction Noise Permit (CNP) system, theprinciples of which are contained in TechnicalMemorandum (TM). The stipulations to controllingconstruction work through the CNP are listed below:

Applicable to anyoperational activitiesother than constructionactivities. In the event ofa noise complaint, anoise abatement noticemay be received.

Applicable toconstruction works.

Technical Memorandum onNoise from ConstructionWork other than PercussivePiling

The TM prescribes maximum noise levels through theCNP system for all construction activities (withinrestricted hours) that include Powered MechanicalEquipment (PME) other than those required forpercussive piling. Basic Noise Levels (BNLs) are setout according to an Areas Sensitivity Rating (ASR).

Works using PME during restricted hours (1900 - 0700)or at any time on general holidays (including Sunday) isprohibited unless a CNP is in force.

Carrying out constructionactivities involving the useof Powered MechanicalEquipment.

Technical Memorandum onNoise from ConstructionWork in Designated Areas

The TM details the procedures that should be adoptedfor the control of noise generated by the use ofSpecified Powered Mechanical Equipment (SPME) otherthan percussive piling and/or the carrying out ofPrescribed Construction Work (PCW).

Works in Designated Areas using SPME and PCWduring restricted hours (1900 - 0700) or at any time onpublic holidays, (including Sunday) is prohibited, unlessa CNP is in force.

Carry out PrescribedConstruction Works orconstruction activitiesusing Specified PoweredMechanical Equipment ina Designated Area.

35



Noise Emissions (contd)

Technical Memorandum onNoise from Percussive Piling

The TM details the procedures that should be adoptedby the Authority for determining any permitted hoursof operation for percussive piling, for the issuing of CNPfor percussive piling and for determining whether or notany CNP for percussive piling is being complied with.

Works using percussive piling between 1900-0700 andon public holidays is prohibited (unless specificallyexempted). Percussive piling during daytime hours 0700-1900 is prohibited unless a CNP is in force.

Construction activitiesinvolving the usepercussive piling.

Noise Control (General)Regulations

This regulation stipulates the forms required forapplication of a CNP, and provides examples of the CNPonce issued and also of a Noise Abatement Notice.

Application for a CNP.

Noise Control(Construction Work)Regulation

This regulation prescribes construction works (inaddition to PME and percussive piling) which arecontrolled through the Noise Pollution ControlOrdinance and Technical Memorandum.

Applicable in the eventof construction workinvolving

Erection or dismantlingof scaffolding orformwork

Loading, unloading orhandling of rubble,wooden boards, steelbars, wood orscaffolding material

Harmmering

Noise Control (ConstructionWork Designated Areas)Notice

This notice defines the designated areas in which theuse of specified mechanical equipment and/or carryingout of prescribed construction works is controlled(using the CNP system).

Prescribed constructionwork and constructionworks using SPME in anyDesignated Area.

Noise Control(Air Compressors)Regulations

The regulations require hand and portable aircompressors to comply with specified noise emissionstandards and to be fitted with noise emission labelswhen in use. Such labels are obtained throughapplication to the Authority.

Use of air compressorsduring constructionworks.

Noise Control(Hand Held PercussiveBreakers) Regulations

These regulations require hand held percussivebreakers to comply with specified noise emissionstandards and to be fitted with noise emission labelswhen in use. Such labels are obtained throughapplication to the Authority.

Use of hand-heldpercussive breakersduring constructionworks.

36



Waste Management

Waste Disposal Ordinance(Cap 354)

The Ordinance prohibits the unauthorised disposal ofwaste and provides for the licensing of collectionservices and disposal facilities for all types of waste.

Disposal of general solidwaste and production/storage/disposal ofchemical waste.

Waste Disposal(Chemical Waste) (General)Regulations

This regulation requires chemical waste producers tobe registered with EPD and specifies requirements forcontrol on all aspects of chemical waste disposalincluding storage, collection, transport, treatment andfinal disposal. It is an offence to indiscriminately dischargechemical waste into sewers.

Each registered chemical waste producer has theobligation to inform EPD of any change in theparticulars of the registration as soon as practicable.

The Regulations require waste producers to arrangefor proper disposal of their wastes at licensed facilitiesand to engage a licensed collector to remove andtransport the waste. It also requires that all chemicalwaste must be properly stored, packaged and labelled.

Part IV Storage of Chemical Waste, requires that wastepacked/stored in a containers exceeding 450 litresrequires approval from the Director of EnvironmentalProtection.

Production, storage anddisposal of chemicalwaste arising fromconstruction activities.

The Waste Disposal(Charges for Disposal ofWaste) Regulation

The regulation requires payment of charges fordisposal of solid waste at landfills thus creating aneconomic incentive towards waste minimisation.

(This regulation does not currently enforce.)

Disposal of solid wasteto landfill.

The Waste Disposal(Charges for Disposal ofChemical Waste) Regulations

This applies to the disposal of chemical waste at theChemical Waste Treatment Centre (CWTC). Chargesvary according to the type and quantity of waste treatedas specified in the Regulations.

Disposal of chemicalwaste to CWTC.

Dumping at Sea Ordinance(Cap 466)

The Ordinance provides for control of marine dum

the best practice guide for environmental protection in construction site

Documents

hong kong andaround

green construction culture

hong kong productivity

hong kong housing society

construction contractors

green culture

construction operation

environmental measures