Assessment of the SPI Networks (Gas) Pty Ltd proposal for clean up
EPA required SPI Networks (Gas) Pty Ltd (SPI) to have the Remediation Action Plan (RAP) independently audited by a Statutory Environmental Auditor to ensure that the clean up process will not result in detrimental impacts on the environment. The audit was provided to EPA in January 2007 and has been reviewed by EPA and was discussed in a community meeting in March. EPA has directed SPI to provide further clarification on some aspects of the RAP based on comments from the community and EPA’s internal experts.
Pending further information from SPI, EPA expects to be in a position to make a decision on the RAP shortly.
To monitor any environmental impacts during the clean up, SPI has proposed the following in the RAP:
Air monitoring
The proposed air-monitoring (odour and dust) program by SPI for the remedial works includes the following and will be undertaken by independent NATA accredited air monitoring specialists.
- Area source monitoring:
- Target monitoring of a potential source of emissions, for volatile organic compounds (VOC), phenolic compounds and odour.
- Ambient air monitoring:
- General surrounding area air monitoring for VOC, phenol and cresol.
- Tent inlet and outlet sampling:
- Air monitoring of the carbon adsorption system for removal efficiency of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH), total solid particulate matter, VOC, phenolic compounds and odour.
If the RAP is approved, EPA will also conduct independent sampling and testing, utilising the following sampling methods:
- Canisters for sampling and subsequent analysis for chemicals of concern.
- Plate sampler to collect dust.
- Odour surveys.
EPA is an independent NATA accredited organisation. Air monitoring carried out by EPA officers is assessed in accordance with USEPA regulations.
Monitoring of weather conditions
- Strong wind conditions, dust monitoring will be intensified and high risk activities will be rescheduled to fit better with prevailing and forecast weather conditions.
- Severe weather conditions, the site environmental manager will be notified and the cessation of operations during days of severe weather conditions.
- Activities within the tent may continue, while external activities involving soil disturbance may cease.