Boggabri Coal Operations Pty Ltd Noise Management Plan · 2016-04-07 · ENCM Environmental Noise...

Boggabri Coal Operations Pty Ltd

Noise Management Plan January 2016

Revision Control Chart

Rev No Original 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

Revision Date

25 Jan 2012

4 Dec 2012

17 Apr 2013

5 Nov 2013

14 May 2014

16 July 2014

4 September 2014

23 October 2014

20 January 2015

22 January 2016

Prepared by

N Pennington

N Pennington

N Pennington C Royal

N Pennington

N Pennington / B Bird

N Pennington / B Bird

S Crick N Elvers

N Elvers

T Welbourne

Reviewed by

W Jones B Bird B Bird B Bird B Bird B Bird S Crick S Crick S Crick A Blakeney

Approved by

J Rennick J Green J Green J Green J Green J Green J Green J Green J Green H Russell

Distribution Control

Controlled copies will be distributed to and retained by relevant personnel including key Boggabri Coal Pty

Limited (BCPL), agency and contractor representatives.

Company Position

Idemitsu Australia Resources Group Group Manager Environment and Sustainability

BCPL Environment Superintendent

Department of Trade and Investment, Regional Infrastructure and Services – Division of Resources and Energy

Regional Environment Officer

Department of Planning and Environment Senior Planner

Downer EDI Mining Project Manager

LCR Coal Project Manager

Uncontrolled Copies

Uncontrolled copies may be issued on the authority of the BCPL Environment Superintendent. Such copies

will neither be numbered nor kept up to date.

BCPL Page 1

Contents

Page number

1. Introduction ................................................................................................................................................ 4

1.1 Overview ............................................................................................................................................ 4

1.2 Aim of this NMP ................................................................................................................................. 4

1.3 Elements covered by this NMP.......................................................................................................... 5

2. Statutory requirements .............................................................................................................................. 6

3. Existing environment ................................................................................................................................. 8

3.1 Background noise .............................................................................................................................. 8

3.2 Sensitive receptors ............................................................................................................................ 8

3.3 Equipment sound power levels ........................................................................................................ 11

4. Noise criteria ............................................................................................................................................ 12

4.1 Noise affected land .......................................................................................................................... 12

4.2 Operational noise criteria ................................................................................................................. 13

4.3 Cumulative noise criteria ................................................................................................................. 14

5. Noise management measures ................................................................................................................. 15

5.1 Approved hours of work ................................................................................................................... 15

5.2 Noise mitigation measures .............................................................................................................. 15

5.3 Risk response procedure and matrix ............................................................................................... 18

5.4 Property mitigation and acquisition .................................................................................................. 22

5.5 Cumulative noise management for the BTM Complex .................................................................... 22

6. Monitoring ................................................................................................................................................ 23

6.1 Attended monitoring ......................................................................................................................... 23

6.2 Real-time monitoring ........................................................................................................................ 24

6.3 Cumulative noise monitoring ........................................................................................................... 25

6.4 Meteorological monitoring ................................................................................................................ 26

6.5 Mobile equipment monitoring........................................................................................................... 27

7. Reporting ................................................................................................................................................. 28

7.1 Annual environment management report ........................................................................................ 28

7.2 Attended monitoring reporting ......................................................................................................... 28

7.3 Community consultation committee reporting ................................................................................. 29

7.4 Environment incidents ..................................................................................................................... 29

8. Incident and complaint management ....................................................................................................... 30

8.1 Incident management ...................................................................................................................... 30

8.2 Complaint response protocol ........................................................................................................... 30

9. Corrective and preventative actions ........................................................................................................ 32

9.1 Non-compliances and corrective actions ......................................................................................... 32

9.2 Preventive actions ........................................................................................................................... 32

Page 2 BCPL

10. Training and awareness ...................................................................................................................... 33

10.1 Visitors induction .............................................................................................................................. 33

10.2 Site induction ................................................................................................................................... 33

10.3 Toolbox talks .................................................................................................................................... 33

10.4 Task specific training ....................................................................................................................... 33

11. Roles and responsibilities .................................................................................................................... 34

12. NMP review.......................................................................................................................................... 36

12.1 Contingency plan ............................................................................................................................. 36

13. References........................................................................................................................................... 37

List of tables

Page number

Table 2.1 Project Approval noise management plan conditions 6 Table 3.2 Modelled sound power levels (Ref: EA Acoustic Assessment, Table 6) 11 Table 4.3 Maximum predicted noise levels 13 Table 4.4 Operational noise criteria dB(A) 13 Table 4.5 Cumulative noise criteria dB(A) LAeq(Period) 14

Table 5.6 Approved hours 15 Table 5.7 Mitigation measures for operational activities 16 Table 5.8 Investigation and action trigger levels 18 Table 5.9 Risk response matrix 20 Table 6.10 Existing Boggabri Coal Mine historical noise monitoring locations 23 Table 6.11 Boggabri Coal Mine attended noise monitoring locations 23 Table 6.12 Attended noise monitoring locations for BTM Complex mines 26 Table 11.13 Roles and responsibilities for implementation of this plan 34 Table 11.14 Responsibilities – monitoring 35 Table 11.15 Site contacts 35

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Glossary

Glossary

AEMR Annual Environmental Management Report

ARTC Australian Rail Track Corporation

BCEP Boggabri Coal Expansion Project

BCM Boggabri Coal Mine

BCPL Boggabri Coal Pty Limited

BCT Boggabri Coal Terminal

BTM Complex Boggabri-Tarrawonga-Maules Creek Complex

CCC Community Consultative Committee

CEMP Construction Environment Management Plan

CHPP Coal Handling and Preparation Plant

dB Decibel

dB (A) A Decibel

DoE Commonwealth Department of the Environment

DP&E NSW Department of Planning and Environment

EA Environmental Assessment

ENCM Environmental Noise Control Manual

EPA Environment Protection Authority

EP&A Act Environmental Planning and Assessment Act, 1979

EPL Environmental Protection Licence

INP NSW Industrial Noise Policy 2000

Km Kilometre

MCP Maules Creek Project

MOP Mining Operations Plan

Mt Million Tonnes

Mtpa Million Tonnes Per Annum

NMP Noise Management Plan

NMS Noise Management Strategy

OCE Open Cut Examiner

OEH NSW Office of Environment and Heritage

PAC NSW Planning Assessment Commission

Part 3a Part 3a of Environmental Planning and Assessment Act, 1979

POEO Act Protection of the Environment (Operations) Act, 1997

SPL Sound Power Level

ROM Run of Mine

Page 4 BCPL

1. Introduction

1.1 Overview

Boggabri Coal Mine is located 15 km north-east of the township of Boggabri in north-western New

South Wales. The project is an open cut coal mine that has been operating since 2006. Truck and

shovel operations produce a crushed and screened run-of-mine (ROM) coal product. Coal is

transported on a sealed private haul road to a rail loading facility, where coal is dispatched for

overseas consumption via the Port of Newcastle.

The mine is managed by Boggabri Coal Pty Limited (BCPL), who engages contractors to undertake

construction, mining, coal crushing and transportation activities.

The original development consent for BCPL (DA36/88) allowed the mine to produce 5 million

tonnes per annum (Mtpa) of run of mine (ROM) coal by open cut methods with mining operations

undertaken 24 hours a day, seven days a week. However, a 2011 modification restricted the

extraction rate to 3.5 Mtpa of ROM coal as part of a 2 year extension to mining operations. A

modification, approved in June 2012, allowed for an increase in height of the overburden

emplacement area (OEA) by 55 m. This modification was submitted to allow for the continuation of

operations until an earlier major project application was assessed. The earlier major project

application was lodged under the now-repealed Part 3A of the Environmental Planning and

Assessment Act 1979 (EP&A Act) and was approved by the PAC, under delegation by the Minister

in July 2012.

The Boggabri Project Approval (DA 09_0182) allows Boggabri to extend its mining operations for a

further 21 years, and increase its production rate to 7 Mtpa of ROM coal from a total resource of

145 Mt. The Project includes operation of existing ancillary equipment; construction of a new coal

handling and preparation plant; a 17 km rail spur line; bridges over the Namoi River and Kamilaroi

Highway; a rail load-out facility located at the mine; upgrade of the overburden and coal extraction

haulage fleet (with an option for a drag-line); upgrade of electricity transmission lines; and other

ancillary infrastructure.

A modification (Modification 3) was lodged in November 2013 to allow BCPL to transport coal from

site by road until the rail spur is commissioned; this was approved in March 2014.

Schedule 3, Condition 13 of the Project Approval requires the preparation of a Noise Management

Plan (NMP). This plan has been prepared in fulfilment of the requirements. The specific

requirements of the NMP are listed in Table 2.1. Consultation with the Boggabri Coal Community

Consultative Committee (CCC) and the Environment Protection Authority (EPA) was undertaken

during preparation of the NMP (refer to Section 2).

All BCPL staff and contractors working at Boggabri Coal Mine are required to operate in

compliance with this NMP.

1.2 Aim of this NMP

The aim of this NMP is to outline the processes for achieving the following objectives:

to facilitate compliance with the Project Approval, Environment Protection Licence (EPL)

12407 (the EPL), Mining leases CL 368, A355, A339 and all relevant environment

legislation

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to ensure that works are managed to minimise adverse noise impacts on the community

and the environment

to detail specific noise management and mitigation measures for site personnel

to outline the mine‟s monitoring and reporting requirements related to noise; and

to provide clear definition of the roles and responsibilities for noise management that apply

to all BCPL employees and contractors.

1.3 Elements covered by this NMP

This management plan applies to all employees and contractors at the Boggabri Coal Mine and

covers all areas within the „Project Boundary‟ as defined in the Project Approval. A figure showing

the extent of these areas is provided in Appendix A.

This NMP covers all operational activities that have the potential to generate noise at the Boggabri

Coal Mine.

Construction activities that have the potential to generate noise at the Boggabri Coal Mine will be

managed via the Construction Environment Management Plan (CEMP), which has been developed

in accordance with this management plan.

Cumulative noise management for Boggabri Coal Mine and the neighbouring Tarrawonga and

Maules Creek Coal Mines is detailed in the Boggabri-Tarrawonga-Maules Creek (BTM Complex)

Noise Management Strategy (NMS). Key elements of the NMS are discussed in Sections 5 and 6

of this NMP.

Page 6 BCPL

2. Statutory requirements

Project Approval conditions outlining the requirements for a noise management plan are detailed in

Table 2.1, together with a reference to where these conditions are addressed in this NMP.

Additional legislative requirements relevant to noise management at the Boggabri Coal Mine, and

references to where they have been addressed in this NMP are provided in Appendix B.

Table 2.1 Project Approval noise management plan conditions

Applicable Condition

Requirement NMP Reference

Schedule 3 Condition 13

The Proponent shall prepare and implement a Noise Management Plan for the project to the satisfaction of the Director-General. This plan must:

Whole NMP Document

a be prepared in consultation with the EPA and the CCC, and submitted to the Director-General for approval within 6 months of the date of this approval;

Appendix D

b describe the measures that would be implemented to ensure:

i) best management practice is being employed;

ii) the noise impacts of the project are minimised during meteorological conditions when the noise limits in this approval do not apply; and

iii) compliance with the relevant conditions of this approval;

Section 5

c describe the proposed noise management system in detail; Whole NMP Document

d include a risk/response matrix to codify mine operational responses to varying levels of risk resulting from weather conditions and specific mining activities;

Section 5.3

e include commitments to provide summary reports and specific briefings at CCC meetings on issues arising from noise monitoring;

Section 7.3

f include a monitoring program that:

i) uses a combination of real time and supplementary attended monitoring to evaluate the performance of the project;

ii) adequately supports the proactive and reactive noise management system on site;

iii) uses predictive meteorological forecasting to incorporate proactive mitigation measures to manage noise impacts;

iv) includes monitoring of inversion strength at an appropriate sampling rate to determine compliance with noise limits;

v) evaluates and reports on the effectiveness of the noise management system on site;

vi) provides for the annual validation of the noise model for the project; and

Section 6

g includes a Leard Forest Mining Precinct Noise Management Strategy that has been prepared in consultation with other coal mines in the Precinct to minimise the cumulative noise impacts of all mines within the Precinct, that includes:

i) systems and processes to ensure that all mines are managed to achieve their noise criteria;

ii) a shared environmental monitoring network and data sharing protocol; and

h procedures for identifying and apportioning the source/s and contribution/s to cumulative noise impacts for operating mines and other sources, using the noise and meteorological monitoring network and appropriate investigative tools.

BTM Complex Noise Management Strategy

The Proponent shall ensure that the noise and air quality risk/response matrices required to be developed in the Noise and Air Quality

Sections 5.3,

BCPL Page 7



Management Plans and validated real time monitoring data are available on line and includes:

timely publication of validated monitoring data in a clearly understandable form;

identification of mine operational responses to monitoring data and weather forecasts; and

provision for on-line input /response by members of the community and real time engagement with regionally-based regulatory compliance staff, to the satisfaction of the Director-General.

6.3 and 6.4

Page 8 BCPL

3. Existing environment

3.1 Background noise

Boggabri Coal Mine and the neighbouring Tarrawonga and Maules Creek Coal Mines are located

in a quiet rural area, away from major roads or other major industry.

Monitoring had demonstrated that background levels regularly fall to 30 dBA or below. A

background noise level of 30 dBA was adopted for all receivers and time periods in accordance

with the NSW Industrial Noise Policy.

3.2 Sensitive receptors

Receptors sensitive to noise impacts from construction and operational activities associated with

the Boggabri Coal Mine were identified in the Environmental Assessment (EA). Noise impacts on

sensitive receptors were modelled for year 1 (2012), year 5 (2016), year 10 (2021) and year 21

(2032) of operations. The 35dB (A) and 40dB (A) noise contours for each of these years of

operations was mapped to show the extent of the areas likely to be impacted. Modelled noise

impacts, as detailed in the EA, are shown in Figures 3.1 and 3.2. The sensitive receptors within

and surrounding the areas bounded by the modelled noise impact contours will be subject to

varying levels of noise mitigation and management, as outlined in Section 5.

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Figure 3.1 Indicative 35 dBA noise contours

Page 10 BCPL

Figure 3.2 Indicative 40 dBA noise contours

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3.3 Equipment sound power levels

Mobile and stationary noise sources will be monitored annually in accordance with Conditions 9

and 10 of Schedule 3 of the Project Approval to ensure continued compliance with the sound

power levels listed in Table 3.2. The sounds power levels and plant numbers in Table 3.2 are

consistent with those used to undertake noise impact assessment modelling in the EA.

Table 3.2 Modelled sound power levels (Ref: EA Acoustic Assessment, Table 6)

Plant Item Maximum

dB(A),LAeq

Number

(current)

Number

(End of MOP)

D11 Dozer 116 dB(A) 9 15

Overburden Drill 117 dB(A) 3 7

Rope Shovel 118 dB(A) 0 0

Excavators 120 dB(A) 5 5

Overburden haul (uphill)* 119 dB(A) 30 42

Overburden haul (on flat)* 117 dB(A)

Loader 117 dB(A) 1 2

Grader 115 dB(A) 2-3 2-3

Water Cart 117 dB(A) 7 4

Coal preparation Plant 117 dB(A) 0 1

ROM feeder/breaker 109 dB(A) 0 1

Train loading bin 103 dB(A) 1 1

Train (50 km/h) 126 dB(A) 0 Various

Coal trucks 120 dB(A) 8 8

* Dynamic test in general accordance with ISO 6395:2008(E).

Page 12 BCPL

4. Noise criteria

Noise criteria and conditions applicable to the Boggabri Coal Mine are specified in the Project

Approval and summarised in the following subsections.

4.1 Noise affected land

Project Approval Schedule 3, Conditions 3 and 4 describe the actions the Proponent is required to

follow with regard to receivers on noise affected land as follows.

3. For privately-owned residences identified within the project‟s 35dB(A) noise impact contour (see Appendix 4A) the owner(s) can make a written request to the Proponent for one of the following:

(a) mitigation (such as double glazing, insulation and air conditioning) at the residence in consultation with the owner(s). These measures must be reasonable and feasible and directed towards reducing the noise impacts of the project on the residence. If within 3 months of receiving this request from the owner(s), the Proponent and owner(s) cannot agree on the measures to be implemented, or there is a dispute about the implementation of these measures, then either party may refer the matter to the Director-General for resolution; or

(b) acquisition of the residence and land in accordance with the procedures in conditions 8-9 of Schedule 4.

Upon receiving a written request from the owner(s), the Proponent must undertake whichever option has been requested by the owner(s).

However, this condition does not apply if the Proponent has an agreement with the owner(s) of the relevant residence to generate higher noise levels, and the Proponent has advised the Department in writing of the terms of this agreement.

Notes:

1. For the purposes of this condition a privately-owned residence is defined as a residence not owned by a mining company that: is regularly occupied; or is an existing residence that is not regularly occupied but for which a valid development consent exists; or is a proposed residence for which a development application has been lodged with the relevant authority prior to the date of this approval.

2. For the purposes of acquisition under this condition, parcels of land that are in close proximity and operated as a single agricultural enterprise should be considered as part of the land to be acquired. Where the Proponent and the owner(s) cannot agree on whether non-contiguous parcels of land should be included, either party may refer the matter to the Director-General for resolution. The Director-General’s decision as to the lands to be included for acquisition under the procedures in conditions 8 and 9 of Schedule 4 shall be final.

4. Where the owner(s) of a residence included in condition 3 of this schedule have opted for either an

agreement to generate higher noise levels or mitigation under condition 3(a), and the owner(s)

have reason to believe that the noise impacts at the residence are more than 3 dB(A) above the

predicted noise levels for that residence (see Table 4.3), the owner(s) can request an independent

noise impact assessment for the residence. The request shall be made in writing to the Director-General. If the Director-General considers that a noise impact assessment is warranted, then the Proponent shall commission the assessment.

If the noise impact assessment determines that the noise generated by the project causes sustained exceedances, or is likely to cause sustained exceedances, of the predicted noise levels by more than 3 dB(A) the owner(s) may require the Proponent to acquire the residence and land in accordance with the procedures in conditions 8-9 of Schedule 4.

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Table 4.3 Maximum predicted noise levels

Location Property/ID Day

(LAeq (15 min))

Evening

(LAeq (15 min))

Night

(LAeq (15 min))

Night

(LA1 (1 min))

54 35 42 42 45

52 35 41 41 45

67, 68 35 40 40 45

23 35 38 38 51

27, 48 36 38 38 48

86 35 38 38 45

43, 44 35 37 37 45

32, 33, 79, 90 35 36 36 45

Note:

1. To interpret the locations referred to in Table 4.3, see the applicable figure in Appendix 4.

2. The noise assessment must be undertaken by a suitably qualified, experienced and independent person, whose appointment has been approved by the Director-General and include either:

a. sufficient monitoring at the affected residence to allow for assessment of the impacts under a range of meteorological conditions (including adverse conditions) likely to be experiences at the residence; or

b. Sufficient monitoring to allow reliable prediction of the likely impacts under the range of meteorological conditions (including adverse conditions) likely to be experienced at the residence.

3. Monitoring should be conducted in accordance with the requirements of the NSW Industrial Noise Policy.

4. Where predictions of likely impacts is to be used, either in substitution for, or in conjunction with, direct measurement of noise impacts at the residence, it must be based on sufficient monitoring data to provide a reliable estimate of the impacts (including under adverse meteorological conditions) and be derived using standard noise modeling techniques accepted by the EPA.

5. The Proponent shall ensure that the requested noise impact assessment is submitted to the Director-General within 3 months of the Director-General‟s decision that the assessment was warranted. The Proponent shall also provide a copy of the assessment to the owner(s) of the residence at the same time it is submitted to the Director-General.

6. Note 2 to condition 3 of this Schedule applies to acquisition under this condition.

4.2 Operational noise criteria

The operational noise criteria applicable to all properties not identified in Conditions 3 and 4, as

adopted from Project Approval Schedule 3, Condition 5, are detailed in Table 4.4. The criteria apply

to all on-site noise sources including mining and coal processing equipment, coal truck movement

on the private haul road to Boggabri Coal Terminal (BCT), train loading equipment and train

movements on the private rail spur.

BCPL will implement various management approaches to ensure that the noise generated by the

Project does not exceed the criteria in Table 4.4 at any residence on privately-owned land.

Management measures are outlined in Section 5.

Table 4.4 Operational noise criteria dB(A)

Location Day Evening Night

LAeq(15 min) LAeq(15 min) LAeq(15 min) LA1(1 min)

All privately owned land 35 35 35 45

Condition 6 of Schedule 3 (produced in full in Appendix B, Table B.1 of this NMP) allows for noise

mitigation or property acquisition if an independent noise assessment determines that the noise

Page 14 BCPL

generated by the Project causes sustained exceedances, or is likely to cause sustained

exceedances, of the noise criteria in Table 4.5. The various scenarios under which BCPL will be

required to mitigate or acquire landholder properties are described in detail in Section 5.4.

4.3 Cumulative noise criteria

BCPL shall implement all reasonable and feasible measures to ensure that the noise generated by

the development combined with the noise generated by other mines in the area does not exceed

the criteria, as outlined in Schedule 3, Condition 7 of the Project Approval and detailed in Table 4.5,

at any residence on privately-owned land.

Table 4.5 Cumulative noise criteria dB(A) LAeq(Period)

Location Day Evening Night

All privately owned land 40 40 40

Condition 8 of Schedule 3 (produced in full in Appendix B, Table B.1 of this NMP) allows for noise

mitigation or property acquisition if an independent noise survey shows that the cumulative noise

generated by the Project and others mine(s) causes sustained exceedances, or is likely to cause

sustained exceedances, of the cumulative noise criteria in Table 4.5. Mitigation is described further

in Table 5.7 and Section 5.4. Landholder property acquisition scenarios for Boggabri Coal Mine are

described in Appendix C. Cumulative noise mitigation and acquisition is discussed further in the

BTM Complex NMS.

BCPL Page 15

5. Noise management measures

A combination of the following noise control measures will be used by BCPL to ensure predictions

are met, minimise potential adverse operational noise impacts on receivers and reduce the mine‟s

area of potential impact.

Management actions related to construction activities are included in the CEMP.

5.1 Approved hours of work

Project operational activities (construction works are considered in a separate CEMP) will be

undertaken in accordance within the hours specified under Project Conditions of Consent listed in

Table 2.1 and summarised in Table 5.6 below.

Table 5.6 Approved hours

Activity Monday to Friday Saturday Sunday and Public Holidays

Operational activities 24 hours 7 days 24 hours 7 days 24 hours 7 days

Blasting* 9:00 am to 5:00 pm 9:00 am to 5:00 pm No Blasting

Note: * 1 blast per day (unless an additional blast is required following a blast misfire) and no more than 4 blasts per week, averaged over a calendar year.

5.2 Noise mitigation measures

Proactive noise mitigation measures that will be applied during operational activities at the

Boggabri Coal Mine are outlined in Table 5.7. The table also specifies the key parties that will be

responsibility for implementation of each management measure.

Noise mitigation measures that will be applied during construction activities related to the spur line

construction is considered in a separate CEMP. However, construction activities within the Mining

Infrastructure Area (MIA) including the construction of the Coal Handling and Preparation Plant

(CHPP), water infrastructure, load out facilities etc. are incorporated into the Noise Management

Plan.

Page 16 BCPL

Table 5.7 Mitigation measures for operational activities

Activity/ aspect

Management control Responsibility for implementation

BCPL Mining contractor

Coal haulage

contractor

BCEP

Procurement Ensuring any additional trucks purchased for the haulage of coal along the BCPL private haul road achieve a sound power level of 108 dBA or less

Ensuring all new trucks, dozers, drills and excavators purchased for use on site after 18th July 2012 are commissioned as noise-suppressed (or attenuated) units

Ensuring that all new equipment and noise control measures deliver sound power levels that are equal to or better than the sound power levels listed in Table 3.1 of this NMP and that correspond to best practice or the application of best available technology economically achievable

●

Selecting vehicle reverse alarms, horns, start alarms and other audible warning devices that produce the lowest possible noise levels consistent with relevant safety standards

● ● ● ●

Coal haulage Operating product haul trucks to the following speed limits to minimise noise and air quality impacts.

Area Speed limit

Mining area 60km/hr

Product haul road 80km/hr

Mine access road and other light vehicle roads 50km/hr

Car parks and infrastructure areas 20km/hr

Note: speed limits may be varied in response to adverse weather conditions, air quality monitoring results or other factors.

●

Coal handling Ensuring idlers do not have uneven surfaces

Screening or partially enclosing conveyer belt motors

Using low noise motors

Using vibration absorbing pads on supporting springs for vibrating screens

●

Limiting the speed of the track dozers in reverse

Ensuring belt covers do not have ripples or imperfections

●

Loading trains and private spur line

Enclosing the train loading chute and bin

Ensuring rail lines are thermit welded

Undertaking regular inspections of trains and wagons

Not permitting train horns as a form of communication at BCT

Undertaking regular maintenance on trains and wagons to minimise noise generated

Ensuring that the Boggabri Rail Spur Line is only accessed by locomotives that are approved to operate on the

●

BCPL Page 17

Activity/ aspect

Management control Responsibility for implementation

BCPL Mining contractor

Coal haulage

contractor

BCEP

NSW rail network in accordance with the noise limits in ARTC's EPL (No. 3142)

Ensuring that rolling stock supplied by service providers on the Boggabri Rail Spur Line is designed and constructed to minimise noise

Ensuring any new rail rolling stock manufactured specifically for the project is designed and constructed to minimise noise

Focusing on out of round trains and wagon wheels and brake noise

Designing Rail Spur Line and bridge crossing to minimise noise

Conduct train speed noise testing to optimise train speed for minimum noise

Open cut mining

Fitting all new mining trucks with best practise exhaust silencers

Progressively fitting the existing haul truck fleet with best practise exhaust silencers by the end of July 2013

Implementing an annual monitoring plan to ensure that the effectiveness of attenuated plant is maintained

Directing the overburden haul truck fleet to higher, exposed emplacement areas during favourable weather conditions (generally during the day) and to lower, more shielded emplacement areas where possible during noise enhancing weather conditions (generally during the evening and night)

Placing overburden in strategic locations to provide additional screening between noise sources on the site and nearby noise sensitive areas

Constructing noise bunds along the edge of any exposed ramps at exposed elevations on the overburden emplacement area

Where possible, scheduling noisier activities to occur during the day time period (7 am to 6 pm)

Substituting alternative, quieter operating methods or machines. This may include operating equipment at lower speeds and/or adopting new technologies to reduce potential noise emissions and even extend to ceasing operating equipment that is identified as the dominant noise source(s) until weather conditions are more favourable

Continuing to monitor noise levels following implementation of a change to mining activities to confirm the change has been effective

Limiting the speed of the track dozers in reverse

Predictive met forecasting and real time noise monitoring to guide the day to day planning of mining operations

Equipment found to have defects that lead to elevated noise emissions will not be returned to operations until repaired

●

Maintenance Ensuring plant and equipment is maintained regularly and in accordance with manufacturer‟s requirements

Where reasonable and feasible, improving existing noise suppression equipment as technologies become available

● ● ● ●

Page 18 BCPL

5.3 Risk response procedure and matrix

This section describes how the risk of noise level exceedances is to be managed.

Following installation of the proposed cumulative real time noise monitoring system (as outlined

in the NMS), a series of trigger levels will be set and investigation and high level criteria

confirmed through the integrated software. A trigger action response matrix is outlined in Table

5.8, to manage alarms, complaints and incidents. The trigger action response matrix will be

refined as the cumulative network is progressively implemented, tested and improved. The

timing of the above is outlined in the NMS.

Noise monitoring levels will be communicated to environmental personnel and the Open Cut

Examiner (OCE) via SMS, email and/or other systems integrated into operating processes

(depending on needs).

The level of the „noise alert‟ will be determined in accordance with Trigger Levels in Table 5.3.

The table outlines the action required once the alert is issued.

Table 5.8 Investigation and action trigger levels

Noise alert level Trigger level Description/action required

Investigation Any real time monitors reach

a level 3dB below the

project-specific criterion for

the residence nearest to the

monitor.

Comparing the low-pass (initially 800 Hz) LAeq level

with the total LAeq level to determine whether mine

noise (predominantly lower-frequency) is a likely

cause of elevated noise levels.

Listening to the most recent audio files to see if the

source(s) of the increasing noise can be identified.

Audio recordings of one minute duration would

typically be taken every five minutes.

Reviewing meteorological data to determine whether

increasing noise levels may be due to wind or

temperature inversions. Low speed winds can affect

noise levels due to the location of the monitor in

relation to the noise source and high speed winds

generally increase environmental noise levels.

Preparatory measures will be implemented or ready

to be implemented in accordance with the risk

response matrix.

Action Any of the real time monitors

reach a level 1 dB below the

project-specific noise

criteria.

Relevant personnel are required to implement

controls in accordance with the risk response matrix.

Once either an „investigation‟ or action‟ noise alert is triggered, the procedures outlined in the

risk response matrix provided in Table 5.4 would be followed.

The risk response matrix will be refined as the cumulative network is progressively

implemented, tested and improved. The timing of the above is outlined in the NMS.

BCPL Page 19

It is important to note that once the real-time noise management system is operational, trigger

levels would be reviewed as part of the NMS, updated and refined following a review of the data

and calibration of the system. If the trigger levels are not appropriate to site operations (too

many or too few investigation or action responses) they will be revised. Different trigger levels

may be set for each monitoring location within the cumulative network, depending on the noise

criterion for the nearest receiver to the monitor. Trigger levels will also be regularly assessed as

part of the ongoing review of this plan.

The trigger levels can be used as a starting point for identifying the most significant

contributor(s) to elevated noise. Consideration of the prevailing winds and temperature

inversions is paramount in this analysis and it is anticipated that trigger levels would be

developed and refined over during the ongoing review process.

Initially, seasonal wind trends (generally northwest in cooler months and southeast in warmer

months) will guide placement of the mobile real-time monitor when it is not being used to

monitor a specific residence. That is, the mobile monitor would be placed at a location generally

northwest of the mine in summer and at a location generally southeast of the mine in winter,

unless community feedback suggests a different location.

Table 5.9 Risk response matrix

Noise Risk Level

Level 1- Investigate and prepare Level 2- Action required

Noise alert level „Investigation‟ noise alert received „Action‟ noise alert level received

Activity/ Risk Investigation Response Action Response, implement until ‘Noise Risk Level’ reduced.

General (Trigger level exceeded)

Listen to audio recording and determine likely noise source.

Compare the low-pass LAeq level with the total LAeq level to determine

whether mine noise is a likely source.

Review meteorological data to determine whether increasing noise levels may be due to wind or temperature inversions.

If noise attributed to Boggabri Coal Mine, OCE to notify relevant operations.

If the noise is determined to be from other operations, OCE to inform Environment Superintendent, who will notify BTM Complex mines.

Listen to audio recording and determine likely noise source.

Compare the low-pass LAeq level with the total LAeq level to determine

whether mine noise is a likely source.

Review meteorological data to determine whether increasing noise levels may be due to wind or temperature inversions.

If noise attributed to Boggabri Coal Mine, OCE to notify relevant operations and modify mine operations, including ceasing the identified activity if noise is non-compliant

Investigation into the trend of increased noise levels will be conducted upon reaching this trigger level, as discussed above.

If the noise is determined to be from other sources, OCE to record the investigation by following the BCPL incident management procedure (refer to Section 9) and inform Environment Superintendent.

Unfavourable metrological conditions

Mine planners review predictive models and determine optimal plan for adverse conditions.

Adjust shift plans to minimise potential for noise impacts from predicted adverse conditions.

Reduce haul truck speeds to 60 km/h during evening and night time periods.

Noise complaint received

Document complaint as per the BCPL incident management procedure (refer to Section 9).

If complainant is not near a noise monitor, liaise with complainant to deploy mobile noise monitor at mutually agreeable time.

Listen to audio recording to determine likely noise source.

Determine if additional noise monitoring (i.e. attended) is required to adequately investigate the complaint.

If noise attributed to Boggabri Coal Mine, OCE to modify mine operations.

Investigation into the trend of increased noise levels will be conducted upon reaching this trigger level, as discussed above.

Implementation of individual mine noise mitigation actions will be instigated upon reaching a „high‟ trigger level.

If the noise is determined to be from another source then the OCE records the investigation by following the BCPL incident management procedure (refer to Section 9) and informs the Environment Superintendent.

Exceedance of Project Approval criteria during noise monitoring

Investigate noise source and develop actions to reduce noise levels.

As soon as practical after obtaining monitoring results showing an exceedance of the relevant criteria (Appendix B), the Proponent shall notify the affected landowners in writing of the exceedance, and provide regular monitoring results to each of these parties until the Project is complying with the

relevant criteria again.

Review the NMS and frequency of noise monitoring undertaken.

Implementation of individual mine noise mitigation actions will be instigated if there is an exceedance of the criteria.

Document incident, investigation and outcomes.

Coal handling Check coal handling equipment against the mitigation measures listed in Table 5.7.

Check coal handling equipment against the mitigation measures listed in Table 5.7.

Limit the speed of track dozers in reverse.

Train loading Check train loading infrastructure and rail lines against the mitigation measures listed in Table 5.7.

Check train loading infrastructure and rail lines against the mitigation measures listed in Table 5.7.

Open cut mining Check open cut mining mitigation measures listed in Table 5.7. Check open cut mining mitigation measures listed in Table 5.7.

Direct haul trucks to lower, more shielded emplacement areas where possible during noise enhancing weather conditions (generally during the evening and night)

Place overburden in strategic locations to provide additional screening between noise sources on the site and nearby noise sensitive areas

Limit the speed of track dozers in reverse.

Use predictive met forecasting and real time noise monitoring to guide the day to day planning of mining operations.

Maintenance Check maintenance mitigation measures listed in Table 5.7. Check maintenance mitigation measures listed in Table 5.7.

5.4 Property mitigation and acquisition

The Project Approval stipulates that private landholders can request an independent noise impact

assessment be undertaken at their property if they suspect mining noise is (a) exceeding the

approved criteria in Table 2 of the Project Approval by more than 3 dB, for receivers inside the

35 dB(A) contour, or (b) exceeding the approved criteria in Table 3 of the Project Approval, for

receivers outside the 35 dB(A) contour. If an assessment is required, it will be undertaken to

determine whether noise levels are above or below the approved limits and identify the source of

the noise impacts. The allowable noise levels will be dependent on the location of the landholder‟s

property and whether the impact is solely caused by BCPL or whether it is cumulative. The

outcomes of the assessment will then be used as a basis for subsequent landholder negotiations

for noise mitigation or property acquisition.

As described in the Project Approval, mitigation options may include the installation of double

glazing, insulation and air conditioning at the landholder‟s residence. Any mitigation will be

undertaken in consultation with the landholder and be reasonable, feasible and directed towards

reducing the noise impacts of the Boggabri Coal Mine or the BTM Complex upon the residence.

If mitigation is not agreed upon within three months of the landholder‟s written request, then BCPL

will refer the matter to the Secretary for resolution.

If property acquisition is required, BCPL will undertake negotiations with the landholder in

accordance with conditions 8 and 9 of Schedule 4 of the Project Approval (reproduced in

Appendix B).

Process flow diagrams outlining the key steps that will be undertaken for noise assessment and

potential acquisition under the various landholder impact scenarios are provided in Appendix C. It

is expected that the scenarios outlined in Appendix C will only be implemented following

investigation of practical and feasible mitigation measures, as discussed in this section and Tables

5.2 and 5.3.

5.5 Cumulative noise management for the BTM Complex

The strategy and actions for the management of cumulative noise impacts associated with the BTM

Complex are described in the NMS. The NMS outlines the basic system architecture, which will

include predictive noise modelling and predictive meteorology. The system will assist short term

mine planning, by allowing various mining scenarios to be run and evaluated for predicted

meteorological conditions. The mine plan can then be optimised to allow for best noise or air quality

performance (see also Sections 6.3 and 6.6).

6. Monitoring

Ongoing real time noise monitoring and monthly attended noise monitoring will be undertaken

throughout Project construction and operational phases. Attended monitoring has been conducted

since project inception at or near the locations listed in Table 6.10.

Table 6.10 Existing Boggabri Coal Mine historical noise monitoring locations

Receiver # Landowner/Property name Type

67/68

N/A1

Goonbri

Greenhills

Attended

Attended

N/A1

54

23/27

Bollol Creek/Templemore

Tarrawonga

Cooboobindi

Attended

Attended

Attended

N/A2 Hazeldene Attended

N/A2 Roma Attended

1 Property owned by other mining company and not allocated receiver number in Boggabri Mine assessment.

2 No assigned receiver number.

6.1 Attended monitoring

Attended noise monitoring was conducted on a quarterly basis from inception of the Boggabri Coal

Mine to the end of 2015. Continued attended monitoring to assess ongoing compliance with

individual and cumulative noise criteria is now conducted at monthly intervals.

Recommended attended monitoring locations outside the 35 dB(A) contour and not listed in

Condition L3.3 of EPL 12407, in satisfaction of Condition M8.1 of EPL 12407, are listed in Table

6.11 and illustrated in Appendix A. Additional one-off or occasional monitoring may also be

undertaken at other surrounding locations as required utilising either a mobile real-time monitor or

by commissioning an independent expert to undertake attended monitoring.

Table 6.11 Boggabri Coal Mine attended noise monitoring locations

Location # Landowner/Property name Type

N1 Goonbri Attended

N2 Sylvania Attended

N3 Picton Attended

N4 Barbers Lagoon Attended

N5 Glenhope Attended

N6 Roma Attended

N7 Arlington Attended

Attended noise monitoring will be conducted as follows:

All noise investigations will be carried out in accordance with NSW Industrial Noise Policy,

2000 (INP), and applicable Australian Standards.

Noise levels will be measured in one-third octave bands using an instrument with IEC Type

1 characteristics as defined in AS 1259-1990 “Sound Level Meters”. The instrument will

have current calibration as per manufacturer‟s instructions and field calibration will be

confirmed before and after measurements with a sound level calibrator.

The instrument will be set to A-weighting, “fast” response and measurements of LAeq(15

minute) will be taken at each location in Table 6.11.

Attended surveys will occur at each location in Table 6.10 at a frequency specified in

condition M8.1 of EPL 12407 as follows:

monthly.

during the night period as defined in the NSW Industrial Noise policy for a minimum of

15 minutes.

Field notes will be taken during each measurement recording the time and duration of

noise events, noise sources, instantaneous noise levels and frequency range of identified

site noise sources.

Extraneous noise sources will be filtered from the measured signal using appropriate

methods such as, employing an appropriate low pass cut-off, pausing unwanted noise or

similar methods and the LAeq(15-minute) and LAmax (as an estimate of the LA1(1-minute)

sleep

disturbance descriptor) levels attributable to BCM activities will be identified and compared

with the relevant criterion.

Details regarding plant configuration, survey interval, weather conditions, extraneous noise

sources, monitoring locations and times of measurement will be recorded for inclusion in

the noise monitoring report.

The selection of monitoring locations has been undertaken in consultation with relevant agencies.

6.2 Real-time monitoring

A cumulative real-time noise monitoring system is being developed by the BTM Complex mines to

assist in the management of noise emissions on a daily basis. This system is described in detail in

the cumulative Noise Management Strategy (NMS).

Four permanent real-time noise monitors will be installed as part of the development of the

cumulative network, comprising the following:

one at the P Murphy property in the W Zone (identified as RT2, installed as part of the

Maules Creek Project)

one at Maules Creek School (identified as RT1, installed as part of the Maules Creek

Project)

one unit at Olivedene west of Boggabri Coal Mine (identified as RT3, installed as part of

the Maules Creek Project)

one at the Sylvania property in the E Zone (to be installed by Boggabri Coal Mine).

As part of the proposed real-time monitoring network, two additional mobile real-time units may

also be employed to variously monitor cumulative coal haulage noise impacting on SW Zone

receivers, noise impacts at the nearest privately owned receivers to the Maules Creek Project in

the NE, NW and SW zones, at a receiver in the S zone during the prevailing winter NW winds, or to

investigate noise complaints from any receiver.

The BTM Complex will continue to work with noise specialists to determine the optimum

configuration of monitors for the combined monitoring network.

Utilising the output of the real-time noise monitoring system BCPL will:

further consult with adjacent affected landowners and establish noise management

agreements where appropriate

offer mitigation to the residences of immediate neighbours where monitoring results

indicate repeated exceedances of noise criteria (as described in Section 5.4)

review the monitoring locations on a regular basis to confirm it remains appropriate as the

mine progresses

correlate real-time noise monitoring results with the mine‟s meteorological monitoring

station and the central data repository for the BTM Complex for comparative analysis to

assist in determining appropriate responses to noise issues

develop, in conjunction with BTM Complex partner mines, an automatic warning system to

notify site mining contractors and BCPL personnel when noise levels from mining activities

reach „Investigation‟ and „High‟ level triggers discussed in Section 5.3. This will also include

a predictive capability linked to meteorological data (described in the BTM Complex Noise

Management Strategy) to provide an estimate of likely future noise impacts from mining

operations

be made publically available on the Boggabri Coal Mine website in a clearly

understandable form within a reasonable timeframe.

Due to the need for cooperation between the different mines of the BTM Complex with respect to

monitoring, the implementation of proposed monitoring programs will be undertaken in stages, as

the needs for all parties are fully determined. Schedule 2, Condition 21 of the Project Approval,

allows for the staged submission of strategies, plans and programs required under the Project

Approval. Noise models developed as part of the cumulative system will be reviewed quarterly

initially, extending to annually once performance is viewed to be satisfactory, as detailed in the

NMS.

6.3 Cumulative noise monitoring

The real-time network discussed in Section 6.2 forms part of the comprehensive cumulative noise

monitoring network, which is detailed in the NMS for the BTM Complex [BTM14].

The requirements of the cumulative monitoring network are to:

facilitate compliance with existing and likely future consent conditions

allow proactive management and real-time noise monitoring to assist in day to day

operations of each mine site

develop an integrated and coordinated approach to noise management of the BTM

Complex

potentially consolidate existing monitoring

allow for predictive meteorological forecasting to guide operations

include procedures for identifying the source(s) and contribution(s) to cumulative noise

impacts for mines and other sources

include appropriate investigative tools such as noise modelling.

Noise monitoring sufficient to cover all affected receivers will be conducted by the individual mines

under their respective NMP‟s with each mine reporting on their individual noise levels and

cumulative mining noise levels. Permanent real-time and monthly attended monitoring locations are

summarised in Table 6.12.

Table 6.12 Attended noise monitoring locations for BTM Complex mines

Receiver# (zone) Property name/landowner Type Mine*

N1 (E) Goonbri Attended BCM

N2 (SE) Sylvania Attended BCM

N3 (SE) Picton (boundary) Attended BCM/TCM

N4 (S) Barbers Lagoon Attended BCM/TCM

TN4 (S) Bungalow Attended TCM

N5 (SW) Glenhope Attended BCM

N6 (SW) Roma Attended BCM

N7 (W) Arlington Attended BCM

NM1 (N) Maules Creek School Attended MCP

NM2 (NW) Wongala Attended MCP

NM3 (W) Riverway Attended MCP

NM4 Ellerslie Attended MCP

NM5 Thornfield Attended MCP

RT1 Maules Creek School Real-time MCP

RT2 Wongala Real-time MCP

RT3 P Murphy Real-time MCP

RT4 Sylvania Real-time BCM

* BTM – Boggabri Coal Mine TCM – Tarrawonga Coal Mine MCP – Maules Creek Project

6.4 Meteorological monitoring

Condition 14 of the Project Approval states the following:

Where conditions in this approval refer to measurement of noise within the context of the NSW Industrial Noise Policy the inversion class to be applied to the project is Class G.

However, the Proponent may undertake an investigation to determine whether a proposal for

change in this classification could be considered for approval by the Secretary. Any such

investigation must be conducted in consultation with the EPA and be conducted by a suitably

qualified person whose appointment has been endorsed by the EPA and approved by the

Secretary. The report and recommendation must be submitted to the EPA for endorsement prior to

submission to the Secretary . If the Secretary is satisfied that the recommendation is reasonable,

then the Secretary may amend the inversion class applying to the project under this approval.

BCPL‟s existing meteorological monitoring capabilities will be upgraded, including the provision of

real time access to meteorological data. The BTM Complex have installed a 60 m tower which will

measure temperature at (at least) two altitudes with minimum 50 m vertical separation, as

recommended in Appendix D of the INP. The tower will provide accurate measured real-time

temperature inversion data without the need to resort to unreliable methods such as extrapolation

from sensors at 2m and 10m above the ground or analysis of sigma-theta data.

Class G inversions are defined in the INP as having a temperature gradient strength up to

80C/100m, which will be adopted as the upper level of applicability of the noise criteria, unless the

data suggest a more appropriate value. In that case, the EPA will be consulted as directed in

Condition 14.

Real-time access to meteorological data via the central data repository will allow the

implementation of a management system that employs both reactive and proactive mitigation

measures.

A predictive forecast meteorology system will be implemented based on the Weather Research &

Forecasting (WRF) model, specifically for the BTM Complex, and a website be developed to make

data immediately available for each of the mine sites, with half hourly forecasts up to 48 hours in

advance. This system will download global meteorological data and forecasts on a daily basis and

process and run the WRF model to produce the information required for input into a real-time 3D

dispersion model.

As with any predictive forecast, confidence reduces with longer predictions, however the half hourly

48-hour forecasts will provide useful planning information for operations. The forecasts for the next

24-hour and 12-hour periods will provide more confidence in predictions for the day ahead and how

weather may affect operations.

Once this meteorological system is configured and operating, the outcomes will be evaluated by a

competent meteorologist or atmospheric science professional quarterly against actual

meteorological measurements and the meteorological system will be validated and improved,

where possible.

6.5 Mobile equipment monitoring

In accordance with Condition 9 of Schedule 3, all mobile equipment mobilised to site will have their

sound power levels (SPLsLW) monitored and assessed annually against the SPLLW used in the

Acoustic Impact Assessment/predictive model. The level of acoustic attenuation supplied as

Original Equipment should be reviewed or additional acoustic mitigation equipment retro fitted to

the individual vehicle.

Manufacturers data sheets will be reviewed to ensure nominated are compared against the SPL

used in the Acoustic Impact Assessment/predictive model. Should the manufacturers SPL be

greater than that used in the model, the equipment choice, or level of acoustic mitigation equipment

supplied as original equipment should be reviewed.

This annual monitoring program of attenuated plant will ensure that the attenuation remains

effective. The results of all attenuated plant monitoring will be included in the BCPL Annual

Environment Management Report, which will be made publically available on the Boggabri Coal

Mine website .

7. Reporting

Various monitoring reports will be prepared at regular intervals for the management of issues

associated with noise management at BCPL. These reports and reporting periods are discussed in

detail in the following sections.

7.1 Annual environment management report

The Annual Environment Management Report (AEMR) will contain a section on the monitoring,

assessment and repairs undertaken to maintain attenuation equipment on the truck fleet.

The AEMR summarises the environmental performance of the mine for the previous calendar year.

In accordance with BCPL‟s mining leases (CL368, A355, and A339) and Schedule 5, condition 4 of

the Project Approval, the report must include the following details relevant to noise management:

a comprehensive review of the monitoring results and complaint records over the past

year, which includes a comparison of these results against the:

assessment criteria (refer to Section 4 and Section 6)

monitoring results of previous years

noise impact predictions in the EA

identification of any non-compliance over the last year, and a description of what actions

were (or are being) taken to ensure compliance

a summary of the monitoring, assessment and repairs/improvements undertaken to ensure

relevant mining and ancillary equipment is appropriately noise attenuated

identification of any trends in the monitoring data over the life of the Project

identification of any discrepancies between the predicted and actual impacts of the Project,

and analysis of the potential cause of any significant discrepancies

a description of what measures will be implemented over the next year to improve noise

management performance.

As outlined in Project Approval, Schedule 3, Condition 13, f) v), the attend monitoring will be used

to evaluate and report on the effectiveness of the noise management system at BCM in the AEMR

for the previous year. The BCPL AEMR will be made publically available on the Boggabri Coal

Mine website (https://idemitsu.com.au/operations/boggabri-coal/approvals-plans-and-

reports/annual-reports/).

7.2 Attended monitoring reporting

A suitably qualified acoustic consultant will provide reports of attended monitoring to the BCPL

Environment Superintendent, following each monitoring survey. This reporting will include:

monitoring aims

monitoring methodology

a quantitative assessment of the acoustic environment

results showing the performance of the development in relation to all relevant criteria.

Monthly monitoring reports will be made publicly available on the Boggabri Coal Mine website

(https://idemitsu.com.au/operations/boggabri-coal/approvals-plans-and-reports/environmental-

monitoring/).

7.3 Community consultation committee reporting

The BCPL Environment Superintendent will provide regular updates to the community on the noise

management performance of the Boggabri Coal Mine at CCC meetings. These updates will

typically include a summary of:

noise monitoring results for the period since the last CCC meeting

any specific noise mitigation or other management actions undertaken since the last CCC

meeting

any proposed noise management activities that will be undertaken in the forthcoming

period.

Minutes of all CCC meetings will be made publically available on the Boggabri Coal Mine website

(https://idemitsu.com.au/operations/boggabri-coal/approvals-plans-and-reports/community-

consultative-committee/).

7.4 Environment incidents

Reporting of environment incidents by the contractor(s) to the BCPL Environment Superintendent

shall be undertaken as soon as practically possible, but not later than 24 hours following the

incident.

Any noise monitoring result that indicates that EPL noise criteria have been exceeded as a result of

BCPL operations will be reported to the NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) Pollution

Line service on 131 555. Written details of the notification will be provided to the EPA within 7 days

of the date on which the incident occurred as required under Schedule 5, Condition 8 of the Project

Approval.

8. Incident and complaint management

BCPL employees and contractors will identify failures/incidents within their acoustic control

systems through their monitoring programs and inspections. The process for the management of

incidents and complaints is outlined in the following subsections.

8.1 Incident management

All noise related incidents will be managed in accordance with the BCPL incident management

procedure. This procedure outlines a process for identifying, reporting and correcting all

environment incidents at the Boggabri Coal Mine.

BCPL‟s Environment Superintendent will maintain records of all environment incidents in the

Boggabri Coal Mine incident register.

All environment incidents that have the potential to result in offsite environment impacts will be

immediately notified to the Secretary , and in accordance with EPL, if required to the EPA, in

accordance with the Protection of the Environment Operations Act, 1997 Section 148 – Duty to

Notify Pollution Incidents.

Notifications will be followed by a written incident report to the Secretary within seven days of the

date on which the incident occurred, in accordance with Project Approval Schedule 5, Condition 8.

8.2 Complaint response protocol

BCPL has developed a procedure which details how to receive, respond to, and record and action

any community complaints. This includes recording:

the nature of the complaint

the method of the complaint, i.e. telephone

monitoring results, including meteorological conditions at the time of the complaint

site investigation outcomes

site activity and activity changes

any necessary actions assigned.

BCPL maintains a 24 hr community response line (1800 Boggabri) to field any complaints or

inquiries from neighbouring residents or interested stakeholders.

The community response line has been advertised in the local media on at least an annual basis

and is also available from site personnel and representatives on the Community Consultative

Committee.

Contractors and subcontractors will recommend that the complainant contact the community

response line or the BCPL Environment Superintendent.

Where the complainant insists on communicating their complaint, the Contractor and Subcontractor

will record specific details relating to any community complaint in accordance with this procedure.

This information will be passed to BCPL‟s Environment Superintendent within 24 hours.

Where possible, complainants will be contacted within 24 hours of BCPL‟s Environment

Superintendent being advised. A follow up on the complaint will be made by BCPL‟s Environment

Superintendent, where necessary to notify the complainant of any required or remedial actions

undertaken.

Every effort will be made to ensure that concerns are addressed in a manner that facilitates a

mutually acceptable outcome for both the complainant and mining operation concerned. If required,

the Independent Dispute Resolution Process will be entered into.

All complaints received will be tabled at meetings of the Community Consultative Committee.

BCPL will maintain completed complaint forms on file for a period of no less than five years.

9. Corrective and preventative actions

Both Contractors and BCPL employees will be involved in implementation of corrective and

preventative actions as outlined in the following subsections.

9.1 Non-compliances and corrective actions

Non-compliances will be detected through verification processes such as monitoring, inspections

and audits.

The process for managing non-compliance issues is summarised as follows:

When a non-conformance issue is detected, corrective actions will be identified,

communicated with relevant employees and contractors, and then implemented.

Relevant contractors will be notified immediately of any non-compliant activities that

present a risk of causing material environmental harm.

Corrective actions will include a review of any relevant plans and procedures following

identification of any non-conformance.

Where the non-conformance issue is associated with an inspection, audit or monitoring

event, the actions will be linked to the record of that event.

Non-compliance reports will be reviewed on a regular basis to ensure actions are

progressed appropriately.

9.2 Preventive actions

Preventive actions will be managed as follows:

A preventive action may be identified without an environment incident or non-conformance

occurring.

Corrective actions will be identified and agreed with BCPL before being implemented.

Preventative actions may include physical works or changes to plans or procedures,

training or other requirements.

10. Training and awareness

10.1 Visitors induction

All visitors to the Boggabri Coal Mine (personnel not undertaking work) will undergo a visitor‟s

induction. Contractors and subcontractors are responsible for the actions and conduct of their

visitors and will ensure that all environment requirements of the site are obeyed. All visitors will be

accompanied around the site at all times. Under no circumstances will a visitor undertake any

physical work on site.

Records of visitor inductions will be maintained by BCPL and relevant contractors and

subcontractors.

10.2 Site induction

All personnel (including employees, contractors and subcontractors) will undertake a site-orientated

induction program prior to commencing works. The induction will describe environment impacts

applicable to the Boggabri Coal Mine, including relevant legislation and legal responsibilities.

10.3 Toolbox talks

Toolbox talks will be conducted regularly to maintain and improve employee and contractor

awareness of air quality and greenhouse gas management issues/requirements.

10.4 Task specific training

BCPL employees and contractors undertaking tasks requiring specific knowledge or skills in noise

management may be required to undergo task specific training. Specific requirements for BCPL

employees and contractors (e.g. use of noise monitoring equipment, the need to relocate or cease

the operation of machinery if advised to do so) will be identified during BCPL‟s annual training

needs analysis, and/or as required as changes to activities or personnel occur. The training needs

analysis identifies the minimum required competencies, qualifications and skills commensurate with

the individual‟s role responsibilities.

Records of personnel training attendance, competencies, qualifications and skills will be

maintained by BCPL and contractors.

11. Roles and responsibilities

Compliance with this NMP is the responsibility of all BCPL employees and contractors. The key

roles and responsibilities for noise management at the Boggabri Coal Mine are outlined in Table

11.13.

Table 11.13 Roles and responsibilities for implementation of this plan

Role Responsibility

BCPL General Manager Operations

Providing sufficient environmental resources to ensure the effective implementation of this management plan.

Ensuring all mitigation measures outlined in this management plan are achieved on site.

Negotiating with affected parties to resolve ongoing complaints.

Ensuring all employees and contractors are inducted with respect to noise management.

Idemitsu Corporate Approvals Director

Overall responsibility for managing plans and strategies under the Project Approval.

BCPL Environment Superintendent

Ensuring all noise monitoring is undertaken according to the requirements of this management plan and relevant Australian standards.

Maintaining awareness of potential noise impacts from activities with mine personnel and contractors via inductions and tool box talks.

Notifying other BTM Complex mines if noise trigger levels are reached.

Responding to community complaints.

Liaising with regulatory authorities regarding noise management.

Scheduling additional noise monitoring at the site of a sensitive receptor if required.

Ensuring exceedances are reported to the relevant regulatory authority in accordance with Section 8 of this management plan.

Maintaining the site‟s noise monitoring system.

Implementing noise mitigation measures in accordance with Section 5 of this management plan.

Reviewing and updating this management plan in accordance with Section 12.

Ensuring all employees and contractors are aware of their obligations under this management plan.

Mining contractor Implementing noise management measures in accordance with Section 5 of this plan.

Developing and implementing specific procedures for the employees and subcontractors under their responsibility to facilitate compliance with this management plan.

Ensuring all employees and subcontractors under their control are aware of their obligations under this management plan.

Providing relevant environmental data to assist BCPL with their reporting requirements, in accordance with Section 8 of this plan.

Coal haulage contractor

Implementing noise mitigation measures in accordance with Section 5 of this plan.

Developing and implementing specific procedures for the employees and subcontractors under their control to facilitate compliance with this management plan.

Ensuring all employees and subcontractors working under their control are aware of their obligations under this management plan.


Role Responsibility

BCEP Implementing noise management measures in accordance with Section 5 of this plan.

Ensuring the BCEP CEMP (including subordinate documents) is developed and implemented to facilitate compliance with this management plan.

Ensuring all employees and subcontractors working under their control are aware of their obligations under this management plan.


All BCPL employees and contractors

Undertaking activities, as required, in accordance with this management plan under instruction from their supervisor.

Informing the Boggabri Coal Environment Manager of any noise related issues as they arise.

Staff responsible for monitoring are outlined in Table 11.14. The names and contact details of key

BCPL and contractor personnel are provided in Table 11.15.

Table 11.14 Responsibilities – monitoring

Type Frequency Responsibility Comments

Operational Noise

Attended noise Surveys

Monthly.

As required in response to noise complaints.

Suitably qualified acoustic consultant

As commissioned by the Environment Superintendent

Real time Monitoring

Continuously Environment Superintendent and contractors

Suitably qualified acoustic consultant will install and commission integrated system

Mobile Mine Equipment

New equipment to be assessed on arrival at Boggabri Coal Mine.

Existing equipment to be assessed annually and/or in response to noise complaints or upon request from Environment Superintendent.

Environment Superintendent and contractors

The sound power levels are to be recorded and provided to Environment Superintendent

Table 11.15 Site contacts

Title Company Name Contact No

Idemitsu Corporate Approvals Director Idemitsu Australia Resources

Dr Jan Green 0457 705 059

General Manager BCPL Ray Balks 0407 859 403

Mine Manager BCPL Lloyd Hardy 0439 136 264

Environment Superintendent BCPL Hamish Russell 0438 003 915

Mining Contractor Downer EDI Mining Brad Zillman 0400 574 812

Coal Haulage Contractor LCR Mick Schultz 0417 188 007

24 Hour Community Response Line BCPL - 1800 Boggabri

12. NMP review

The implementation and review of this NMP will be the responsibility of the BCPL Environment

Superintendent. It will be reviewed at least every twelve months to ensure compliance with legal

and other requirements.

Review of this management plan may also be triggered by:

changes to construction methodologies, mining operations, equipment or design

an exceedance of noise criteria, as confirmed by monitoring

repeated complaints related to noise impacts (neither frivolous nor vexatious in nature)

a hazard, near miss, or incident related to noise management

outcomes of an internal or external audit

changes to legislation

modifications to the BCPL‟s Project Approval, EPL, mining leases or other relevant

approvals

changes to the organisational management structure at the Boggabri Coal Mine.

Any review of this NMP will be undertaken in consultation with the relevant government agencies

and approved by the Secretary (or delegate).

12.1 Contingency plan

If it is found through the review of the NMP described above or during the comparison of actual and

predicted monitoring results undertaken for the AEMR (refer to Section 7.1), that unpredicted

impacts have resulted from the project, the following process would be undertaken:

consultation would be undertaken with relevant regulators, such as DP&E, DE and the EPA

to determine appropriate methods for addressing the unpredicted impact, consideration

would be given to:

further definition or quantification of the impact(s) – this may require additional

monitoring, or use of mobile noise monitors at locations not routinely monitored

review of previous impact assessments based on updated „real world‟ data, this may

include more recent meteorological data, updated locations of sensitive receivers etc.

an investigation would be undertaken to determine the cause of the impact and the NMP

would be reviewed to ensure it provides effective measures for mitigating the impact

impact assessments may be revised or recalibrated to ensure impacts are predicted as

accurately as possible

the results of any investigation undertaken regarding unpredicted impacts would be

detailed in the AEMR.

13. References

Australian and New Zealand Environment Council (ANZEC) (1990) Technical basis for guidelines

to minimise annoyance due to blasting overpressure and ground vibration.

DEC (2006) Assessing Vibration – A Technical Guideline.

DECC (2009) Interim Construction Noise Guideline.

DECC (2007), Interim Guideline for the Assessment of Noise from Rail Infrastructure Projects.

DECCW (2011) NSW Road Noise Policy.

EPA (2000) NSW Industrial Noise Policy (INP) for Operational and Construction Noise.

EPA (1985) Environmental Noise Control Manual, Chapter 19 (in relation to sleep disturbance

criteria).

Hansen Bailey (2010) Continuation of Boggabri Coal Mine Environmental Assessment. Singleton,

NSW.

Hansen Bailey (2011) Continuation of Boggabri Coal Mine Environmental Assessment – Residual

Matters Report. Singleton, NSW.

Spectrum Acoustics Pty Limited (2012) Cumulative Noise Management Strategy for the Boggabri,

Tarrawonga and Maules Creek Coal Mines. Prepared for Boggabri Coal Pty Limited and

Whitehaven Coal.

Appendix A

Noise monitoring location plan for Boggabri

Appendix B

Additional statutory requirements for noise management

Additional statutory requirements for noise management

Statutory requirements applicable to the Boggabri Coal Mine include any Commonwealth, State or local

requirements under any provisions of relevant Acts and regulations, environment planning instruments (e.g.

State Environmental Planning Policies, Regional Environment Plans, Local Environment Plans and

Development Control Plans) and any other relevant guidelines.

The following statutory requirements associated with the management of noise impacts have been

considered during the development of this NMP.

Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979

In addition to the requirement for a noise management plan, the Project Approval conditions listed in

Table B.1 relate to the management of noise at the Boggabri Coal Mine.

Table B.1 Project Approval conditions




For privately owned residences within the project‟s 35 dB(A) contour the owner(s) can make a written request to the Proponent for one of the following:

a) mitigation (such as double glazing, insulation and air conditioning) at the residence in consultation with the owner(s). These measures must be reasonable and feasible and directed towards reducing the noise impacts of the project upon the residence. If within 3 months of receiving this request from the owner(s), the Proponent and owner(s) cannot agree on the measures to be implemented, or there is a dispute about the implementation of these measures then either party may refer the matter to the Director-General for resolution; or

b) acquisition of the residence and the land in accordance with the procedures in conditions 8-9 of Schedule 4.

Upon receiving a written request from the owner(s), the proponent must undertake whichever option has been requested by the owner(s).

However, this condition does not apply if the Applicant has a written agreement with the owner(s) of the relevant residence to generate higher noise levels, and the Applicant has advised the Department in writing of the terms of this agreement.

Notes:

For the purposes of this condition a privately-owned residence is defines as a residence not owned by a mining company that: is regularly occupied; or is a proposed residence for which a development application has been lodged with the relevant authority prior to the date of this approval.

For the purposes of acquisition under this condition, parcels of land that are in close proximity and operated as a single agricultural enterprise should be considered as part of the land to be acquired. Where the Proponent and the owner(s) cannot agree on whether non-contiguous parcels of land should be included, either party may refer the matter to the Director-General for resolution. The Director-General‟s decision as to the lands to be included for acquisition under procedures in conditions 8 and 9 and schedule 4 shall be final.

Section 5.2, Appendix C




Where the owner(s) of a residence included in condition 3 of this schedule have opted for an agreement to either generate higher noise levels or mitigation under condition 3(a), and the owner(s) have reason to believe that the noise impacts at the residence are more than 3 dB above the predicted noise levels for that residence (see Table 2), the oewne9s) can request an independent noise impact assessment for the residence. The request shall be made in writing to the Director-General. If the director-General considers that a noise impact assessment is warranted, then the proponent shall commission the assessment.

If the noise impact assessment determines that the noise generated by the project causes sustained exceedances, or is likely to cause sustained exceedances, of the predicted noise levels by more than 3 dB(A) the owner(s) may require the proponent to acquire the residence and the land in accordance with the procedures in conditions 8-9 of Schedule 4.

Notes:

1 To interpret the locations referred to in Table 2; see the applicable figure in Appendix 4.

1. The noise assessment must be undertaken by a suitably qualified, experienced and independent person, whose appointment has been approved by the director-general and include either:

i Sufficient monitoring at the affected residence to allow for assessment of impacts under a range of meteorological conditions (including adverse conditions) likely to be experienced at the residence; or

j Sufficient monitoring to allow reliable prediction of the likely impacts under a range of meteorological conditions (including adverse conditions) likely to be experienced at the residence.

2. Monitoring should be conducted in accordance with the requirements of the NSW Industrial Noise Policy.

3. Where prediction of likely impacts is to be used, either in substitution for, or in conjunction with, direct measurement of noise impacts at the residence, it must be based on sufficient monitoring data to provide a reliable estimate of the impacts (including under adverse conditions) and be derived using standard noise modelling techniques accepted by the EPA.

4. The proponent shall ensure that the requested noise impact assessment is submitted to the Director-General within 3 months of the Director-General‟s decision that the assessment was warranted. The proponent shall also provide a copy of the assessment to the owner(s) of the residence at the same time it is submitted to the Director-General.

5. Note 2 to condition 3 of this schedule applies to acquisition under this condition.

Section 5, Appendix C


At any stage of the project, except for the noise-affected land identified in Condition 3 as being within the project‟s 35 dB(A) contour, the Proponent shall ensure that operational noise generated by the project does not exceed the criteria in Table 3 at any residence on privately-owned land.

Notes

Noise generated by the project is to be measured in accordance with the relevant requirements and exemptions (including certain meteorological conditions) of the NSW Industrial Noise Policy.

Operational noise generated by the project includes noise generated from use of the private haul road and proposed rail spur.

However, these noise criteria do not apply if the Applicant has a written agreement with the owner(s) of the relevant residence to generate higher noise levels, and the Applicant has advised the Department in writing of the terms of this agreement.





If the owner(s) of a privately owned residences which is not within the project‟s 35 dB(A) noise impact contour have reason to believe that operational noise from the project is causing the criteria in Table 3 to be exceeded at the residence, the owner(s) can request an independent noise impact assessment for the residence. The request shall be made in writing to the Director-General. If the director-General considers that a noise impact assessment is warranted, then the proponent shall commission the assessment.

If the noise impact assessment determines that the noise generated by the project causes sustained exceedances, or is likely to cause sustained exceedances, of the criteria in Table 3 the owner(s) can make a written request to the Proponent for one of the following:

c) mitigation (such as double glazing, insulation and air conditioning) at the residence in consultation with the owner(s). These measures must be reasonable and feasible and directed towards reducing the noise impacts of the project upon the residence. If within 3 months of receiving this request from the owner(s), the Proponent and owner(s) cannot agree on the measures to be implemented, or there is a dispute about the implementation of these measures then either party may refer the matter to the Director-General for resolution; or

d) acquisition of the residence and the land in accordance with the procedures in conditions 8-9 of Schedule 4.



Notes:

For the purposes of this condition a privately-owned residence is defines as a residence not owned by a mining company that: is regularly occupied; or is a proposed residence for which a development application has been lodged with the relevant authority prior to the date of this approval;


Notes 2, 3, 4 and 5 of condition 4 apply to this condition.



Except for the noise-affected land identified in Condition 3 as being within the project‟s 35 dB(A) contour, the Proponent shall ensure that the operational noise generated by the project combined with the noise generated by other mines does not exceed the criteria in Table 4 at any residence on privately-owned land.

Notes:

Cumulative noise is to be measured in accordance with the relevant requirements and exemptions (including certain meteorological conditions) of the NSW Industrial Noise Policy.

Operational noise includes noise from the mining operations and use of private haul roads and rail spurs.





If the owner(s) of a privately owned residences which is not within the project‟s 35 dB(A) noise impact contour … reasonably believes that the noise limits in Table 4 are being exceeded at the residence and that the exceedance is caused by operational noise from the project and one or more other mines (including use of private haul roads and rail spurs), the owner(s) can request an independent noise impact assessment for the residence. The request shall be made in writing to the Director-General. If the director-General considers that a noise impact assessment is warranted, then the proponent shall commission the assessment.

Where the noise impact assessment determines that the cumulative noise generated by the project combined with the noise from the other mine(s) causes sustained exceedances, or is likely to cause sustained exceedances, of the criteria in Table 4 the owner(s) can make a written request to the Proponent for one of the following:

e) mitigation (such as double glazing, insulation and air conditioning) at the residence in consultation with the owner(s). These measures must be reasonable and feasible and directed towards reducing the noise impacts of the project upon the residence. If within 3 months of receiving this request from the owner(s), the Proponent and owner(s) cannot agree on the measures to be implemented, or there is a dispute about the implementation of these measures then either party may refer the matter to the Director-General for resolution; or

f) acquisition of the residence and the land in accordance with the procedures in conditions 8-9 of Schedule 4.



The proponent may seek to recover an equitable share of the costs incurred from the other mines contributing to the cumulative impact. Unless otherwise agreed between the mines, the proportional contributions should be based on expert analysis of the monitoring results to assess relative contribution to the impact. If a dispute between the mines the Proponent, or one of the contributing mines, may submit the matter to the Director-General for resolution. The Director-General‟s decision shall be final.

Notes:

For the purposes of this condition a privately-owned residence is defines as a residence not owned by a mining company that: is regularly occupied; or is a proposed residence for which a development application has been lodged with the relevant authority prior to the date of this approval;


Notes 2, 3, 4 and 5 of condition 4 apply to this condition.

The noise impact assessment shall include assessment of the relative contribution of the mines to the impact at the residence.





The Proponent shall:

k Ensure that:

all new trucks, dozers, drills and excavators purchased for use on the site after the date of this approval are commissioned as noise-suppressed (or attenuated) units;

ensure that all equipment and noise control measures deliver sound power levels that are equal to or better than the sound power levels identified in the EA and that correspond to best practice or the application of best available technology economically achievable;

Where reasonable and feasible, improvements are made to existing noise suppression equipment as technologies become available; and

monitor and report on the implementation of these requirements annually on its website.

Sections 5, 6.5



a) conduct an annual testing program of the attenuated plant on site to ensure that the attenuation remains effective;

b) restore the effectiveness of any attenuation if it is found to be defective; and

c) report on the results of any testing and/or restoration work within the Annual Review.

Section 5 & Section 6.5



a) ensure all relevant Boggabri Rail Spur Line and rail bridge designs are assessed by suitably qualified and experienced person/s in acoustic engineering for the purpose of providing reasonable and feasible recommendations to minimise noise, including low frequency noise. This acoustic review should consider the EA‟s relevant recommendations and additional noise attenuation such as acoustic barriers to minimise noise at sensitive receptors;

b) implement reasonable and feasible recommendations made in the acoustic review;

c) undertake commissioning trials of the operation of the Rail Spur to optimise train speed to minimise noise impacts; and

d) following completion and commissioning of the Spur Line, undertake targeted noise monitoring to determine the accuracy of predicted acoustic impacts and effectiveness of any noise reduction measures, including monitoring during adverse inversion conditions,

to the satisfaction of the Director-General.

Section 5 (where relevant); CEMP





a) implement best noise management practice to minimise the operational, low frequency and road and rail traffic noise of the project;

b) operate a comprehensive noise management system on site that uses a combination of predictive meteorological forecasting and real time noise monitoring data to guide the day to day planning of mining operations and implementation of both proactive and reactive noise mitigation measures to ensure compliance with the relevant conditions of this approval.

c) Maintain the effectiveness of noise suppression equipment on plant at all times and ensure defective plant is not used operationally until fully repaired;

d) Ensure that noise attenuated plant is deployed preferentially in locations relevant to sensitive receivers;

e) minimise the noise impacts of the project during meteorological conditions when the noise limits in this approval do not apply;

f) Ensure that the Boggabri Rail Spur Line is only accessed by locomotives that are approved to operate on the NSW rail network in accordance with the noise limits in ARTC‟s EPL (No 3142);

g) Use its best endeavours to ensure that rolling stock supplied by service providers on the Boggabri Rail Spur Line is designed and constructed to minimise noise;

h) Ensure any new rail rolling stock manufactured specifically for the project is designed and constructed to minimise noise;

i) Use its best endeavours to achieve the long term intrusive noise goals for the project in Table 5, where this is reasonable and feasible, and report on the progress of achieving these goals in the annual review; and

j) Coordinate the noise management on site with the noise management at other mines within the Leard Forest Mining Precinct to minimise the cumulative noise impacts of these mines,

k) to the satisfaction of the Director-General.

Whole NMP Document


Notes:

The comprehensive review can be undertaken as part of independent environment audits required under condition 10 of schedule 5.




The Proponent shall prepare and implement a Noise Management Plan for the project to the satisfaction of the Director-General. This plan must:

i. be prepared in consultation with the EPA and the CCC, and submitted to the Director-General for approval within 6 months of the date of this approval;

ii. describe the measures that would be implemented to ensure:

best management practice is being employed;

the noise impacts of the project are minimised during meteorological conditions when the noise limits in this approval do not apply; and

compliance with the relevant conditions of this approval;

iii. describe the proposed noise management system in detail;

iv. include a risk/response matrix to codify mine operational responses to varying levels of risk resulting from weather conditions and specific mining activities;

v. include commitments to provide summary reports and specific briefings at CCC meetings on issues arising from noise monitoring;

vi. include a monitoring program that:

uses a combination of real time and supplementary attended monitoring to evaluate the performance of the project;

adequately supports the proactive and reactive noise management system on site;

uses predictive meteorological forecasting to incorporate proactive mitigation measures to manage noise impacts;

includes monitoring of inversion strength at an appropriate sampling rate to determine compliance with noise limits;

evaluates and reports on the effectiveness of the noise management system on site;

provides for the annual validation of the noise model for the project; and

vii. includes a Leard Forest Mining Precinct Noise Management Strategy that has been prepared in consultation with other coal mines in the Precinct to minimise the cumulative noise impacts of all mines within the Precinct, that includes:

systems and processes to ensure that all mines are managed to achieve their noise criteria;

a shared environment monitoring network and data sharing protocol; and

procedures for identifying and apportioning the source/s and contribution/s to cumulative noise impacts for operating mines and other sources, using the noise and meteorological monitoring network and appropriate investigative tools.

Note: The Leard Forest Mining Precinct Noise Management Strategy can be developed in stages and will need to be subject to ongoing review dependent upon the determination and commencement of other mining projects in the area.

Whole NMP Document

Schedule 5

Condition 13

1 The Proponent shall ensure that the noise and air quality risk/response matrices required to be developed in the Noise and Air Quality Management Plans and validated real time monitoring data are available on line and includes:

l timely publication of validated monitoring data in a clearly



understandable form;

m identification of mine operational responses to monitoring data and weather forecasts; and

n provision for on-line input /response by members of the community and real time engagement with regionally-based regulatory compliance staff,


Mining Act 1992

The Mining Act 1992 provides mechanisms to encourage and facilitate the discovery and development of

mineral resources in New South Wales.

BCPL holds Coal Lease 368 under this Act.

Operations must be undertaken in a manner that controls the impacts of the Boggabri Coal Mine to those

areas described in the EA.

Table B.2 below identifies applicable coal lease conditions and their corresponding requirements relevant to

BCPL in relation to noise management.

Table B.2 Coal Lease Conditions



11 (b) ii & iii The registered holder shall…submit for the Ministers approval an environment management plan relating to the operation of the registered holder on the subject area.

(b) the plan shall describe the methods to be used to protect the environment, including the methods used to –

(ii) minimise air, noise and water pollution;

(iii) minimise erosion;

Whole NMP Document

Protection of the Environment Operations Act 1997

The Protection of the Environment Operations Act 1997 (POEO Act) is the key piece of environment

protection legislation, which aims to protect, restore and enhance the quality of the environment in New

South Wales by rationalising, simplifying and strengthening the regulatory framework for environment

protection.

This Act ensures that the operation of any plant or equipment is undertaken in a manner that does not cause

pollution from those premises and that operations are also carried out in a competent manner.

Under the POEO Act, certain industrial activities (including the Project) require an EPL. Each EPL limits

lawful pollution emissions to air (including noise), land and water to specific thresholds.

BCPL holds EPL No: 12407 under this Act. A copy is available at the following NSW Office of Environment

and Heritage (OEH) Website:

A summary of EPL conditions relating to noise produced by the Boggabri Coal Mine, which is required to be

consistent with the project approval, is provided in Table B.3.

Table B.3 Conditions from EPL 12407



L3.1 Noise generated at the premises must not exceed the noise limits in the table below.

(Note: subsequent conditions L3.2 to L3.7 give more detail on requirements for monitoring and acquisition. For full conditions refer to EPL).

Sections 4 and 5

M8.1 To assess compliance with the noise limits presented in the Noise Limits table, attended noise monitoring

must be undertaken in accordance with the condition titled Determining Compliance, outlined above, and:

a) at each one of the locations listed in the Noise Limits table;

b) occur quarterly in a reporting period;

c) occur during each day, evening and night period as defined in the NSW Industrial Noise Policy for a

minimum of:

i) 1.5 hours during the day;

ii) 30 minutes during the evening; and

iii) 1 hour during the night.

d) occur for three consecutive operating days.

Section 6.1

R4 A noise compliance assessment report must be submitted to the EPA within 30 days of the

completion of the quarterly monitoring. The assessment must be prepared by a suitably qualified and experienced acoustical consultant and include:

a) an assessment of compliance with noise limits presented in this licence; and

b) an outline of any management actions taken within the monitoring period to address any exceedances of the limits contained in this licence.

Section 7.2

E1.1 Noise impacts where wind speed exceeds 3 metres per second at 10 metres above the ground must be addressed by:

a) documenting noise complaints received to identify any higher level of impacts or wind patterns;

where levels of noise complaints indicate a higher level of impact then actions to quantify and ameliorate any enhanced impacts where wind speed exceeds 3 metres per second at 10 metres above the ground should be developed and implemented.

Sections 5, 8 and 9

E1.2 The noise limits set by condition L3.1 of this licence apply to noise generated solely from the premises. Where the limits are exceeded solely due to cumulative noise impacts from the premises and off premise operations (not under control of the licensee), the licensee must:

a) Identify significant contributing noise sources and/or meteorological conditions on the premises contributing to the cumulative noise impacts;

b) Liaise with the occupier(s) of all off premise operations contributing to the cumulative noise impact to identify the source(s) and/or cause(s) of cumulative noise impacts causing the

exceedance;

c) Develop a joint noise reduction strategy in conjunction with all off site contributors to the cumulative noise impacts; and

d) Implement all noise mitigation measures that relate solely to the premises identified in the joint noise reduction strategy.

A copy of the joint noise reduction strategy must be provided to the DECC‟s Armidale office within 30 days of any cumulative noise impacts exceeding the limits set by condition L3.1 of this licence.

Section 5

Additional standards and guidelines

Additional publications, standards and codes of practice applicable to managing Project noise are listed in

Table B.4.

The Interim Construction Noise Guideline (DECC, 2009) does not apply to industrial sources including

mining and associated construction (e.g. rail spur, CHPP etc.), and is therefore not applicable.

Table B.4 Additional Standards and Guidelines Applicable to the Project

Legislative Requirements Purpose

(DECCW, 2007) Addresses noise and vibration from new rail infrastructure projects designed to streamline decision-making processes by providing consistent and transparent procedures for the assessment and approval process for rail infrastructure developments that have potential noise and vibration impacts.

The noise trigger levels presented are those that trigger the need for a project to conduct an assessment of its potential noise and vibration impacts and examine what mitigation measures would be feasible and reasonable to apply to ameliorate these impacts.

Industrial Noise Policy (EPA, 2000)

Sets the criteria to assess potential off-site noise impacts to control intrusive short term noise impacts for residences and maintain long term amenity of particular land uses.

NSW Road Noise Policy (DECCW, 2011)

Establishes recommended base criteria for land use developments with the potential to create additional traffic on existing roads.

Appendix C

Process flow diagrams for property mitigation, assessment and acquisition

Figure C.1 Process for noise assessment, mitigation and acquisition for landholders within 35dB (A)

contour area and no written agreement with BCPL

BCPL Page C-3

Figure C.2 Process for noise assessment, mitigation and acquisition for landholders outside of 35dB (A) contour area

Figure C.3 Process for noise assessment, mitigation and acquisition for landholders within

35dB (A) contour area and that have a written agreement with BCPL

Appendix D

Tables

Table D.1 Record of agency consultation

Consultation Date Details Response

Noise Management Plan January 2013

NMP sent to DP&I for review / approval.

Plan lodged January 2013. DP&I comments received March 2013. Plan subsequently revised to address comments, the revised MOP and the BTM Complex NMS.

Boggabri Coal CCC Meeting April 2013

30.04.2013 NMS was presented to the CCC for comment.

The NMS presentation was received by the CCC. General comments regarding noise were considered in the revision of the NMS. No further comment was received.

Noise Management Plan for Boggabri Coal Mine sent to EPA for comment

28.01.2014 The management plan contains details of the proposed NMS for the BTM Complex

The EPA received the management plan and responded on 12.02.2014 that “the Environment Protection Authority (EPA) encourages the development of such plans to ensure that proponents have determined how they will meet their statutory obligations and designated environmental objectives. However, we do not approve or endorse these documents as our role is to set environmental objectives for environmental/ conservation management, not to be directly involved in the development of strategies to achieve those objectives”

Table D.2 Response to DP&I Comments

Page/section Comment Response

General As per the conditions of approval, the management plan should have been submitted following consultation the EPA and CCC.

The plan cannot be approved by DP&I until this consultation has occurred and the outcome of this consultation provided documenting how any concerns/ comments have been incorporated into the documents. It is noted that EPA policy is not to comment on the management plans, however written confirmation is required from EPA.

The EPA received the management plan and responded on 12.02.2014 that “the Environment Protection Authority (EPA) encourages the development of such plans to ensure that proponents have determined how they will meet their statutory obligations and designated environmental objectives. However, we do not approve or endorse these documents as our role is to set environmental objectives for environmental/ conservation management, not to be directly involved in the development of strategies to achieve those objectives”

The NMP was presented to the CCC in April 2013.CCC members were invited to review the document and provide further input if desired. No further comment was received.

Table 2.1 Last dot point in table should be „(g)‟ to be consistent with the project approval and included in full.

Done

Appendix B Statutory requirements for noise also include the EPL and this should be referenced here, noting that the EPL is required to be consistent with the project approval.

Table B.3 does contain conditions from EPL 12407

Also missing in Appendix B and the Noise Management Plan is how Sch 5 (condition 13 – online communication of on-site activities and monitoring of air and noise) will be addressed.

The Proponent shall ensure that the noise and air quality risk/response matrices required to be developed in the Noise and Air Quality Management Plans and validated real time monitoring data are available on line and includes:

(a) timely publication of validated monitoring data in a clearly understandable form;

(b) identification of mine operational responses to monitoring data and weather forecasts; and

(c) provision for on-line input /response by members of the community and real time engagement with regionally-based regulatory compliance staff,


Sch 5 Condition 13 included in body of NMP and Appendix B


3.1 It is difficult to interpret these figures. It may be better to include one figure that identifies the maximum 35dBA contour as referenced in the project approval Appendix and that clearly shows the location of all private residential receptors. It would also be useful to show all the current privately owned receptors within the 35dBA contour and those outside the 35dBA contour as this will drive how noise criterion and acquisition conditions specified in the approval and discussed further in s4.1.

Single Figure showing 35 dB(A) contour over all scenarios has been prepared (Figs. 3.1 and 3.2)

3.2 Equipment Sound Power Level s

Further details should be provided on the size and locations of the fleet/ noise sources as assumed in the EA (for different staging) and details of the current fleet and noise locations and proposed fleet expansion over the next 3 or so years. More detailed information should be provided for the mine stage/ plan as proposed for the next 3 years so that management measures can be specifically targeted to the noise sources over this period. The management plan can then be updated/ reviewed as the mine plan / MOP is updated. This approach will also allow the requirement for development of a risk / response matrix to specifically target operations as proposed over a shorter period – rather than generic operational management measures over the life of the mine - as required under condition 13(d). The risk response matrix does not appear to have been provided. This condition requires that mine operational responses to varying levels of risk resulting from weather conditions and specific mining activities. For example – in the first 1-2 years there is no haulage by train therefore a specific operational risk response matrix is not yet required – and the focus can be on haulage by road. As an example, dumping of overburden as proposed in the revised MOP to be approved by DRE in the SE corner of the mine should be identified as a noise source, with closest receptors identified, met conditions that would impact on receptors identified and proposed staged operational responses outlined. The risk response matrix can be modified and refined as the mine plan is changed.

Plant numbers provided. At the time of plan preparation, there was no NMP in NSW which contained a risk/response matrix, and DP&I could not provide an example when requested. A Table (2 columns with multiple rows) fits the definition of a cartesian matrix was subsequently prepared. The NMP contains response procedures for identified risks, incorporated in a “matrix” format in Table 5.3.


4.1 Operational Noise Criteria

This section needs major overhaul as it does not describe or explain the conditions very well. Reference should be made to condition 3 and privately owned residences identified and referred to in the table that have noise mitigation or acquisition rights under the approval. These residences should be clearly identified and the current status provided – eg. Have agreements been reached, has property been acquired, has agreed noise mitigation works been undertaken in accordance with the approval?

Status of negotiations/agreements is not a usual requirement of a NMP and is considered commercially sensitive. BCPL is happy to update the DP&I on individual negotiations directly.

For the residences within the modelled 35dBA contour that have not triggered condition 3, Table 2 in the approval identifies the maximum predicted noise levels. To be consistent with the EA and approval, the operations at the site have to be managed to ensure these maximum noise levels are not exceeded. This is required under Sch 2 condition 2 (to operate generally in accordance with the EA) and Sch 3 Condition 12 – the proponent shall implement best practice to minimise the operational, low frequency and road and rail traffic noise of the project.

Correct. Noted.

For residences outside the 35dBA contour defined in the approval conditions condition 5 noise limits apply (Table 4.1 in the NMP).

Correct. Comment included.

For residences in condition 3 who trigger mitigation/ agreement then condition 4 may then apply - that is request for independent noise monitoring and further trigger for acquisition if 3dBA above maximum predicted noise.

Conditions 3 and 4 have been fully reproduced in Sec 4.1 of latest draft.

States that condition 6 of Sch 3 is produced in full in Table 2.1 – this is incorrect it is provided in App B Table B.1.

Cross reference corrected.

4.2 Cumulative Noise Criteria

Statement that project approval does not quantify cumulative noise acquisition criteria is not strictly true – the cumulative noise criteria specified in condition 7 Table 4 are also the cumulative noise acquisition criteria – however the option for choosing mitigation or agreement is also provided to the landowner.

Could not locate this statement in the NMP.

Section 5 Para should be included indicating that management actions related to the spur line construction is covered in the CEMP, however construction activities within the MIA including the construction of the CHPP, water infrastructure, load out facilities etc. are incorporated into the NMP. Are these included in the NMP currently?

NMP only relates to operations. Statement included.


Table 5.2 Activity aspect loading trains – should be loading and rail transport private spur line.

Change made.

Condition 11 Sch 3 has specific requirements for design to minimise noise impacts – this is currently being prepared as part of BCEP and reference should be made to this and additional management measures identified incorporated.

Included in this revision.

Open cut mining – “fitting all new mining trucks will be fitted..” needs amending

Fixed

Site rules – what are the speed limits imposed to minimise noise impacts?

Deleted. Not applicable.

Placing overburden in strategic locations to provide additional acoustic screening – how is this intended to be practically implemented, for example over the next 3 years based on the proposed mine plan? Any locations should be identified and incorporated into the plan or is intended to be reactive approach?

Placement of OB as acoustic screens is an available measure employed reactively.

How is it proposed to minimise low frequency noise sources – e.g. from the CHPP when commissioned – this needs to be considered during the design stage of the CHPP.

CHPP design specification will have appropriate conditions to be met and certified by the supplier. Tonality and low frequency are assessed by analysis of the measured LAeq

and LCeq spectrum from noise monitoring.

Management actions needs to include predictive met forecasting and real time noise monitoring to guide the day to day planning of mining operations and the implementation of proactive and reactive noise mitigation measures – as required under condition 12(b)

Included in Table.

Management actions should also include condition 12(c) that defective equipment is not used operationally until fully repaired.

Overall the table provides generic operational management actions to manage noise and does not constitute a risk response matrix as required under 13(d) and Schedule 5 condition 13 – online communication.

Included in Table.

5.1.3 This section needs to be finalised as it is lacking in specifics and details, noting that it is based on the precinct wide real time noise monitoring system currently being finalised (due for completion end of March?)

Boggabri system is a component of the precinct-wide system. The NMS provides further detail of cumulative system. A revised NMS was lodged with the DP&I in March 2014.

When is the real time noise monitoring system going to be installed – a clear commitment to implementation is required.

Refer to NMS.


Investigation trigger levels 3dBA below the cumulative noise criterion (that is 40-3dBA = 37dBA) and 1dBA below (39dBA) is not appropriate for sensitive receptors where Boggabri Coal is the dominant noise source. The cumulative noise criterion is also based on LAeq period and not LAeq 15 minute which is the

criterion for intrusive noise impacts project alone. Trigger levels should also be based on LAeq 15 minute criterion. For example

real time noise monitoring targeting noise levels along the rail spur line/ haul road (with potential contribution from mining) are largely project specific.

Installation of the real time monitoring system will be in stages, as outlined in the NMS. Stage 1 will be completed within 6 months of approval of the NMS.

Trigger levels changed. They will be based on LAeq 15 minute.

The real time noise monitoring could initially be placed at a location representative of a residence just outside the 35dBA contour and residence(s) closer to the mine-site to assess performance against predicted noise levels to provide input into operational controls, Tarrawonga and Goonbri may be suitable locations.

Noted and agreed.

Para before table 5.3 stating that trigger levels may be set lower for monitoring locations closer to noise sources – do you mean trigger levels may be set higher (as predicted noise levels would be higher).

Wording changed.

It is not clear who will be responsible for responding to alerts and ensure actions are implemented?

Covered in Tables 533, 11.1 and 11.2.

What frequency range is proposed for the low pass LAeq

Will there be any met monitoring undertaken at the real time monitoring locations and will the met data be used to filter alerts – e.g. High wind conditions.

Initially, 800Hz.

A single 60m met tower has been installed at Boggabri.

How frequently will audio be logged or is it triggered for a period of time once an investigation or high level alert is triggered?

Typically 1 minute in every 5.

Table 5.3 The low level investigation alarm should be included in this table Included.

Responsibilities should be identified Included in Table.

Who is responsible for notifying relevant operations within the BTM complex?

Environmental Superintendent


If a high level alarm is triggered and the noise source identified as causing a non-compliance – then the actions need to be more than investigations – what actions are proposed to be undertaken to ensure compliance – this links into the need for a risk response matrix as required under the approval e.g. If the noise source is identified as a dump truck at elevation overburden dumping then operational response is to reduce or cease this activity until compliant.

Included the option to cease activity if noise is non-compliant.

If a noise complaint is received at a different location to the real time noise monitoring – how is it proposed to investigate the complaint. It states that additional noise monitoring will be determined – is it proposed to have a mobile noise unit to be used by the three mines?

There will be mobile unit/s.

Comments added to Table.

Exceedance of approval criteria – reference to Appendix C is only in relation to where landowner formally requests the DG for an independent noise assessment, Boggabri should be implementing mitigation measures to ensure compliance in the first instance without triggering conditions 4 or 6 of schedule 3. It is not clear why Schedule 3 condition 2 only is referenced here – this is construction noise criterion? Compliance with the project approval conditions includes compliance with the specified project specific and cumulative noise levels (Tables 3 and 4 of the approval) but also ensuring that noise levels at residences within the 35dBA contour who have not triggered acquisition or mitigation or have reached a noise agreement for a higher level do not exceed the predicted levels.

The NMP text indicates that mitigation measures should be fully investigated prior to initiation of the formal noise assessment and acquisition process. Flow charts are intended to show the next stage of the process, and are in keeping with steps outlined in the Project Approval.

5.2 This section needs to be modified to acknowledge the 2 triggers for independent review – residences outside the 35dBA and residences within the 35dBA who have negotiated agreements or mitigation and where noise levels are believed to be >3dB above predicted.

Text has been modified accordingly.

6 BCPL Environmental superintendent – refers to air quality monitoring – not noise monitoring

Corrected.

It is not clear based on this table who is responsible for reviewing and assessing the audio, met data and the real time noise monitoring data once an investigation and high level alert is sent, and also who implements specific on-site actions to ensure compliance with the conditions of approval?

Responsible person(s) incorporated into Table 5.3.


Who is responsible for noise along the rail corridor including shared corridor and also ensuring that the locomotives meet the EPL noise limits

Rail corridor is site noise – the Environmental Superintendent is responsible. Freight contractor is responsible for certification of locomotives etc. See also Table 5.2.

7 The proposed quarterly attended monitoring locations need further work. The quarterly monitoring is intended to assess compliance with specific noise limits or approval conditions. For Boggabri four sets of compliance monitoring need to be considered

intrusive noise limits at private residences located outside the 35dBA contour where a specific noise criterion of 35dBA is set;

noise monitoring at private residences within the 35dBA noise contour which have acquisition or mitigation rights as specified in condition 3, with monitoring undertaken to demonstrate that the noise levels are generally in accordance with the that predicted in the EA and are minimised in accordance with condition 12(a)

cumulative impact noise limits specified in Table 4 condition 7.

construction noise monitoring of the spur line to assess compliance with Table 1 condition 2 (to be covered in the CEMP)

Monitoring campaigns will take these various measurements into account.

Construction noise monitoring will be considered separately from operational noise.

The attended noise monitoring locations for the BTM Complex are detailed in the revised NMS. The Boggabri specific sites are detailed in this section. As the mine/s have taken over a number of suggested properties, all properties suggested by DP&I are no longer valid. See Table 4.2 of the NMS and the revised list in this plan (Section 6).

Additional comments (received 18/6/2014 from Department of Planning and Environment

Additional comments were received from the DPE on 18/6/2014. These were primarily edits to ensure consistency with the NMP and the BTM Complex NMS, minor corrections, updates and clarifications.

The comments received have been addressed in this version (Rev 5) of the NMP.


7 This section does not demonstrate that compliance monitoring is being effectively targeted to monitor compliance. For example, Templemore, Bollol Creek, Greenhills are owned by the Tarrawonga Mine and Belleview is owned by Boggabri - attended monitoring at these locations by Boggabri Coal is not needed. The monitoring should be targeted as above, for example -

Residences outside 35dBA to assess compliance – Callandar, Picton residences to the east (likely to be covered in Tarrawonga monitoring), Hazeldene due to future rail noise and existing loader; possibly some residents to west of existing coal loader.

Residences within 35dBA to assess noise levels against predicted and to ensure noise is being minimised to assess compliance with project approval – key receptors likely to be Tarrawonga, Jeralong, Goonbri being closest to the mine site and others along rail spur line.

Cumulative – need further information on locations to assess cumulative impacts but based on Appendix D of the EA Acoustic assessment – cumulative impacts likely at Jeralong and Goonbri with Tarrawonga also to experience substantive cumulative impacts.

Construction spur line – Cooboobindi has limits specified.

The attended compliance monitoring needs to be further reviewed and updated.

Comments noted and incorporated into revision of this document.

7.1 Should not refer to the ENCM – this is superseded. What are the applicable Australian Standards – specify these.

Deleted.

Monitoring to assess compliance against sleep disturbance should also be undertaken.

Included.

7.2 Further details are needed on the proposed locations of the real time monitoring, one real time noise monitoring location may be inadequate, pending consideration of all proposed locations across the precinct.

BTM Complex NMS contains locations. Comment included.

The statement that on page 21 that - “this may include a predictive capability linked to met data” should be modified. This must be included as it is a requirement in the conditions of approval. Further details will be required in the management plan as to how the met forecasting system will be used by the mine to minimise noise.

“may” changed to “will”.

Initial placement of mobile real-time monitor described.


When will the precinct noise management strategy be submitted to the Department - end March?

The revised NMS was resubmitted to the Department in March 2014.

7.3 Condition 14 state that Class G inversions apply subject to further investigations. This section should reference this condition, any compliance monitoring or real time monitoring needs to acknowledge that Class G inversions apply at this stage subject to investigation/ approval by DG for alternate inversion class applying.

Comments included.

7.4 2nd

para – should be removed, use of equipment higher than the SPL assumed in the noise modelling would be a breach of condition Schedule 3 9(a), noting that continuous improvement and application of best available technology economically achievable is required.

Deleted

7.5.1 It is not clear why the focus of the real time monitoring is just on cumulative impact locations? There needs to be real time monitoring targeting impacts from project alone operations where one mine is the main contributor.

The Boggabri Coal Mine monitoring network is a subcomponent of the cumulative network.

Statement that location R120 (Knott) was the only location where cumulative impacts were predicted exceeding the criterion does not appear correct. R120 is owned by Maules Creek Coal so it is not clear why attended monitoring is proposed to be undertaken here, given that attended monitoring is generally for compliance monitoring? Boggabri EA and Tarrawonga predicted cumulative impacts exceeding or getting close to criterion at Goonbri, Jeralong, Northam and Tarrawonga – noting also that these all have acquisition rights under the approvals. Further details and justification are required on the proposed real time monitoring system.

Revised monitoring locations have been put into the NMP. EPA feedback on selected monitoring locations is sought.

Statement that there are 2 mobile units – earlier on page 21 stated that there would be one additional monitor to assess investigate noise complaints.

There are two proposed in the BTM Complex NMS, however this is subject to approval of the NMS by the DP&I; text amended.

8.1 Need to include here how Sch 5 (condition 13 – online communication of on-site activities and monitoring of air and noise) will be addressed.

First dot point and final sentence referring to Boggabri Coal Mine website address this.


8.4 This is the only reference to the EPA noise criteria – as indicated above a section needs to be included on the statutory requirements under the EPL. It is understood that a variation to the EPL is required to reflect the project approval conditions – this needs to be discussed in the MP. Reference to OEH is now incorrect as EPA is separate agency.

EPL referenced in Sec 6, 6.1 and Appendix B.

Environment incidents need to be reported consistent with the project approval Sch 5 condition 8 – this should be referenced and ensure notification and reporting undertaken as specified.

Referenced.

9.1 Comment regarding notification requirements for incidents – also needs to refer to Sch 5 condition 8.

Already included in the last sentence.

11.4 Task specific training – refers to air quality and greenhouse management – this should refer to noise. Clearly training and understanding on potential noise impacts from operation of plant and equipment is a key component of management of noise and would apply to most operators on site, given that there are management actions related to speed limits, maintenance of equipment, relocation and cessation of equipment under adverse conditions.

Reference corrected.

There are no longer any management actions relating to speed limits.

Appendix A Figure will need to be amended once noise monitoring locations are finalised. It would be useful to have a map just showing the noise monitoring locations and location of private sensitive receptors within the 35dBA and outside the 35dBA boundary. The figure should also show receptors further to the east and north including Northam, Kyalla and Flixton. Where properties have been acquired – change the colour code.

Updated map provided in NMP showing 35dBA boundary and receptors (Figure 3-1).

Appendix B Fix up typos and include noise limit tables referenced in the approval.

Document reviewed.

The EPL will need to be varied to be consistent with the approval – e.g. Noise limits will need to be removed for residences within the 35dBA contour, noise limits apply under G class inversions, monitoring locations will need to be changed.

Noted.


Appendix C As indicated above, this process is only in relation to a formal triggering of request to DG for independent review. The process for noise assessment and mitigation can occur based on complaints, attended and real time monitoring directly without formal triggering of request to DG. Boggabri Coal also has to demonstrate that all reasonable and feasible noise mitigation measures have been implemented to comply with noise limits. The process should also reference that sustained exceedance is required to be demonstrated.

Flowcharts revised to include consideration of mitigation.

Appendix D Needs to be provided including consultation with CCC. Appendix D has been updated.

Missing components not discussed above

The MP has not addressed:

Schedule 3

Condition 11 – needs to be reference and if covered in CEMP or separate package to be provided this should be noted in the NMP. There are also specific commissioning and monitoring trials to be undertaken. There may be outcomes of the acoustic review that will feed into management actions on the rail spur line e.g. Maintenance.

Is in the Construction NMP.

Condition 12 (a) – it is not clear how LF noise will be minimised, particularly CHPP

Condition 12(b) – predictive met forecasting is required to guide day to day planning –see comments above

12(d) – not specifically addressed

12(f) locos – not clear how compliance with this will be monitored?

12(g) and (h) rolling stock – what processes will be put in place to demonstrate best endeavours to source rolling stock to minimise noise

Condition 13

Risk response matrix not provided

Predictive met forecasting not included

Annual validation of the noise model not included.

Suppliers must achieve specified levels for CHPP, rolling stock, locomotives etc. Ongoing compliance monitoring will highlight if compliant or not.

Predictive meteorological forecasting is a component of the combined BTM Complex system and is discussed in the NMS. See also Table 5.2, Table 5.3 and Section 6.4.

Risk response matrix provided as Table 5.3

The noise model, including model validation frequency, is detailed in the BTM Complex NMS, as is Predictive Meteorological forecasting. See also Section 6.4.

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Boggabri Coal Operations Pty Ltd Noise Management Plan · 2016-04-07 · ENCM Environmental Noise...

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