Proposed Air Separation Plant, Coega IDZ, Port Elizabeth ... · Port Elizabeth, 6001 P O Box 21842...

Proposed Air Separation Plant, Coega IDZ, Port Elizabeth

Final Basic Assessment Report

Report Prepared for

Report Number 465580/3

DEA Reference Number: ECm1/C/LN1/13/44-2013

Report Prepared by

October 2013

SRK Consulting: Project No: 465580: Air Separation Plant, Final Basic Assessment Report Page i

GARR/ELSR 465580_FBAR_Cover pages_20131011 October 2013

Proposed Air Separation Plant, Coega IDZ

Final Basic Assessment Report

Report Prepared for

African Oxygen (Pty) Ltd P.O. Box 1570 Bedfordview, 2008 South Africa

SRK Consulting (South Africa) (Pty) Ltd. Ground Floor Bay Suites 1a Humewood Rd. Humerail Port Elizabeth, 6001 South Africa e-mail: [email protected] website: www.srk.co.za Tel: +27 (0) 41 509 4800 Fax: +27 (0) 41 509 4850

SRK Project Number 465580

October 2013

Compiled by: Peer Reviewed by:

Robert Els Environmental Scientists

Rob Gardiner Principal Environmental Scientist

Email: [email protected]

Author:

R. Els

http://www.srk.co.za/

mailto:[email protected]

SRK Consulting: Project No: 465580: Air Separation Plant, Final Basic Assessment Report Page ii


Contents

Summary Report

DEDEAT Basic Assessment Report Form

Appendices

Appendix A Site Plans

Appendix B Photographs

Appendix C Facility Illustration

Appendix D Specialist Reports

Appendix E Comments and Responses Report (Public Participation Process)

Appendix F Environmental Management Programme (EMPr)

Appendix G Other Information

Definitions

Environment The external circumstances, conditions and objects that affect the existence and development of an individual, organism or group. These circumstances include biophysical, social, economic, historical and cultural aspects.

Basic Assessment An assessment of the positive and negative effects of a proposed development on the environment. The process involves collecting, organising, analysing, interpreting and communicating information that is relevant to the consideration of an application for environmental authorisation. A simpler process than EIA, that is subject to one phase (Basic Assessment) and generally does not include specialist studies.

Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)

An assessment of the positive and negative effects of a proposed development on the environment. The process involves the collecting, organising, analysing, interpreting and communicating of information that is relevant to the consideration of an application for environmental authorisation. A full EIA is subject to a Scoping phase and EIA phase and includes various specialist studies.

Interested and Affected Party

Any person, group of persons or organisation interested in or affected by an activity and any organ of state that may have jurisdiction over any aspect of the activity.

Public Participation Process

A process in which potential interested and affected parties are given an opportunity to comment on, or raise issues relevant to, specific matters relating to a proposed development.

Abbreviations

BAR Basic Assessment Report

DEA Department of Environmental Affairs (National)

DEDEAT Department of Economic Development, Environmental Affairs and Tourism

SRK Consulting: Project No: 465580: Air Separation Plant, Final Basic Assessment Report Page iii


(Eastern Cape Province)

DWA Department of Water Affairs

EAP Environmental Assessment Practitioner

ECO Environmental Control Officer

EIA Environmental Impact Assessment

EMP Environmental Management Plan

ER Environmental Representative

IAP Interested and Affected Party

NEMA National Environmental Management Act

NMBM Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality

PPP Public Participation Process

RoD Record of Decision

SRK SRK Consulting

+ve Positive

-ve Negative

October 2013

465580

Ground Floor, Bay Suites

1a Humewood Rd,

Humerail

Port Elizabeth, 6001

P O Box 21842

Port Elizabeth 6000

South Africa

T: +27 (0) 41 509 4800

F: +27 (0) 41 509 4850

E E: [email protected]

www.srk.co.za

Partners JCJ Boshoff, AH Bracken, MJ Braune, JM Brown, CD Dalgliesh, JR Dixon, DM Duthe, BM Engelsman,

R Gardiner, T Hart, GC Howell, WC Joughin, PR Labrum, DJ Mahlangu, RRW McNeill, HAC Meintjies, MJ Morris, WA Naismith, GP Nel, VS Reddy, PN Rosewarne, PE Schmidt, PJ Shepherd, VM Simposya, AA Smithen, KM Uderstadt, DJ Venter, ML Wertz, A Wood

Directors AJ Barrett, JR Dixon, DM Duthe, PR Labrum, DJ Mahlangu, VS Reddy, PE Schmidt, PJ Shepherd Associate Partners DJD Gibson, M Hinsch, DA Kilian, SA McDonald, M Ristic, MJ Sim, JJ Slabbert,

CF Steyn, HFJ Theart, D Visser, DP Van den Berg, MD Wanless Consultants AC Burger, BSC(Hons); IS Cameron-Clarke, PrSciNat, MSc; JAC Cowan, PrSciNat, BSc(Hons); JH de Beer, PrSci Nat, MSc; GA Jones, PrEng, PhD; TR Stacey, PrEng, DSc; OKH Steffen, PrEng, PhD; PJ Terbrugge, PrSciNat, MSc; DW Warwick, PrSciNat, BSc(Hons) SRK Consulting (South Africa) (Pty) Ltd Reg No 1995.012890.07

African Offices:

Cape Town + 27 (0) 21 659 3060

Durban + 27 (0) 31 279 1200

East London + 27 (0) 43 748 6292

Johannesburg + 27 (0) 11 441 1111

Kimberley + 27 (0) 53 861 5798

Pietermartizburg + 27 (0) 33 345 6311

Port Elizabeth + 27 (0) 41 509 4800

Pretoria + 27 (0) 12 361 9821

Rustenburg + 27 (0) 14 594 1280

Accra + 23 (3) 24 485 0928

Harare + 263 (4) 49 6182

Lumbumbashi + 243 (0) 81 999 9775

Group Offices:

Africa

Asia

Australia

Europe

North America

South America

Executive Summary

Final Basic Assessment Report: Proposed Afrox Air Separation Plant, Coega IDZ, Port Elizabeth

1 Summary Report

1.1 Introduction

African Oxygen (Pty) Ltd (Afrox), part of the Linde Group, proposes to construct and operate a new Air Separation Plant (ASP) that includes an Air Separation Unit (ASU) and associated infrastructure for the storage and handling of liquefied gases.

At the ASP ambient air is to be used in the ASU, without any intermediates or chemical conversions, to produce Oxygen, Nitrogen and Argon. The products will be stored in storage tanks as liquefied gases; liquid cryogenic Oxygen (LOX), liquid cryogenic Nitrogen (LIN) and liquid cryogenic Argon (LAR). LIN will be stored in three 300 m³ tanks and one 10 m³ tank, LOX will be stored in one 300 m³ tank and LAR will be stored in one 50 m³ tank.

Of the gases that are going to be handled and stored on site (Oxygen, Nitrogen and Argon) only Oxygen is classified as a dangerous good according to SANS No. 10234, supplement 2008, Edition 1.00.

SRK consulting has been appointed to conduct an Environmental Basic Assessment for the proposed development as per the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) regulations promulgated in terms of the National Environment Management Act (Act No. 107 of 1998).

1.2 Purpose and Structure of the Basic Assessment Report

The National Environment Management Act (NEMA) EIA regulations were promulgated to put into practice the environmental management principles espoused in the Act. The Basic Assessment Report (BAR) provides the competent authority, the Department of Economic Development, Environmental Affairs and Tourism

(DEDEAT), with all relevant information about the proposed activity, as well as an assessment of the potential impacts in order to inform the decision as to whether the activity should be approved and, if so, under what conditions.

This BAR comprises two sections, of which Section 2 is mandatory in terms of the requirements for a Basic Assessment. The Summary Report is intended to provide additional contextual information in support of the application1.

The report contains the following sections:

Section 1: Summary Report/ Executive Summary

Section 1 provides an introduction to the project; describes the approach to the Basic Assessment process and provides a description of the activity and the proposed concept alternatives considered. It also describes the public consultation process undertaken during the process, the key findings and recommendations and the way forward. In effect this section provides a summary of the key elements of the Basic Assessment.

Section 2: Completed Final BAR Form

Section 2 contains the completed Final BAR form, as prescribed by DEDEAT, submitted in support of the application for environmental authorisation of the activity under the NEMA EIA Regulations. Section 2 also contains the Appendices as required by the DEDEAT BAR.

1.3 Approach to the Basic Assessment

The Basic Assessment (BA) process for this assessment will be conducted in accordance with Government Gazette No.R543 in

1 Note that the full report is a collation of sections and not a sequential

compilation of report chapters.

SRK Consulting: Project No: 465580: Afrox Air Separation Plant – FBAR Executive Summary 2

GARR/ELSR 465580_FBAR_Executive Summary_20131011 October 2013

terms of the National Environmental Management Act (Act 107 of 1998) Environmental Impact Assessment regulations.

The National Environmental Management Act (NEMA) EIA regulations list activities that may have a significant impact on the environment, and which consequently require authorisation from the Department of Economic Development, Environmental Affairs and Tourism (DEDEAT). The regulations further specify the assessment process and the information that is required to enable DEDEAT to make a decision regarding the activity. It is understood that a BA process is required in terms of the NEMA EIA regulations as the project may involve (as a minimum) the following activity:

Activity 13, listed under the NEMA EIA regulations (GNR 544), is the main activity associated with the proposed air separation plant, calling for a BA process to be followed.

GNR 544 (13) The construction of facilities or infrastructure for storage or for the storage and handling, of a dangerous good, where such storage occurs in containers with a combined capacity of 80 but not exceeding 500 cubic meters.

Figure S-1: Typical Basic Assessment Process

The process entails the assessment of the activity and the compilation of a BAR (see Section 2) for public comment. Issues and concerns raised by the public after the distribution of the Draft BAR have informed the Final BAR which, together with the prescribed Comment and Reponses Report, have been submitted to DEADEAT for a decision. A typical Basic Assessment process is depicted in Figure S-1.

1.4 Prescribed Requirements for the Basic Assessment

The BAR provides information about the proposed activity, a description of the affected environment (including ecological, land use and socio-economic aspects), a description of the process undertaken in order to consult the public on the activity, as well as a basic assessment of the potential impacts of the activity on the receiving environment.

Several appendices to the BAR are required as supporting documentation. These include:

Appendix A - Site plan(s);

Appendix B - Photographs;

Appendix C - Facility illustration(s);

Appendix D - Specialist reports (if any);

Appendix E - Comments and responses report and proof of Public Participation;

Appendix F - Environmental Management Programme (EMPr); and

Appendix G - Other information.

This information is contained in Section 2 of the Final BAR.

1.5 Site Location and Surroundings

The proposed Air Separation Plant is to be located in Zone 3 (light industrial cluster) of the Coega IDZ between Hamile Road to the south and Bumba Road to the north.

1.6 The Proposed Development

The project involves the construction and operation of a new ASP to supply various customers in Port Elizabeth as well as the Eastern Cape region with Oxygen, Nitrogen and Argon. The ASP includes an ASU for the production of Oxygen, Nitrogen and Argon, storage tanks for the on-site storage of the liquefied gases LOX, LIN and LAR and associated infrastructure.

The new ASP has a total design production capacity of 150 tons per day (tpd) which is made up of 100 tpd LIN, 50 tpd LOX and 3 tpd Argon.

1.7 Process Description

The plant is to use the process of cryogenic air separation for the production of the gaseous products. The Pure gases can be separated from air by first cooling it until it liquefies, then selectively distilling the components at their various boiling temperatures. The operation process follows a number of steps, the first of which is the air is drawn into the process and compressed and cooled. The condensed water is removed before the process air passes through the molecular sieve station which removes any remaining water vapour, carbon dioxide and any hydrocarbons. After passing through the Molecular Sieve the process air is further passed through a series of compressors and coolers and then enters the coldbox. In the coldbox the process air undergoes the process of rectification. This process results in the production of Lox and Lin which are then fed to the storage tanks. During this rectification process a vapour side draw is taken from where the argon concentration is highest and sent to the argon column system for further processing, from here where pure argon is withdrawn and fed to the storage tank.

LOX, LIN and LAR are each stored in large capacity tanks ready for transport. Since LOX and LIN have a very low temperature (approx. -200 C), special storage tanks are required. The storage tanks are constructed with a double shell; whereby the inner vessel is made of



stainless steel, and acts as the liquid storage vessel, and the outer vessel is made of carbon steel. The storage tanks are vacuum insulated and equipped with appropriate safety valves.

To ensure the distribution of the liquid products (LOX, LIN or LAR), three filling pumps are included in with the ASP. The filling pumps are positioned near the storage tanks and each pump is fed from a separate storage unit to ensure that there is no mixing of the products. The liquefied products are transferred into trucks for distribution; it is anticipated that approximately 6 trucks will be required per day in order to meet the demand

1.8 Public Consultation Process

A public participation process aimed at allowing the public to participate and to be involved in the environmental process has been carried out. The public participation process completed to date includes the following:

Newspaper advert (Die Burger);

Screening of an E-Notice on the CDC’s electronic notice board in the foyer of the Coega Business Centre;

Distribution of an Executive Summary of the Draft BAR to IAPs for comment; as well as the placement of copies of the Draft BAR in public libraries for public review for a period of 40 days.

Comments received on the Draft BAR have been included in the Final BAR.

1.9 Assessment of Potential Environmental Impacts

A number of potential impacts of the proposed development were identified by the project team and specialists. The project alternatives, and most of the identified impacts, were considered by the Environmental Assessment Practitioner.

Potential impacts were assessed using SRK’s impact assessment methodology. The significance of an impact is defined and assessed as a combination of the consequence of the impact occurring (based on its extent, intensity and duration) and the probability that the impact will occur.

For all potentially significant impacts, the significance of the anticipated impact was rated with and without recommended mitigation measures. These are presented in Table 1 (refer to section D of the BAR form for a complete list of impacts assessed) which summarises:

The impacts that were assessed;

Their significance following the implementation of mitigation measures; and

The key mitigation measures on which the significance rating is based.

The impact significance rating should be considered by the competent authority in their decision-making process based on the definitions of ratings ascribed below.

Insignificant: the potential impact is negligible and will not have an influence on the decision regarding the proposed activity.

Very Low: the potential impact is very small and should not have any meaningful influence on the decision regarding the proposed activity.

Low: the potential impact may not have any meaningful influence on the decision regarding the proposed activity.

Medium: the potential impact should influence the decision regarding the proposed activity.

High: the potential impact will affect a decision regarding the proposed activity.

Very High: the proposed activity should only be approved under special circumstances.

1.10 Evaluation

Key relevant observations with regard to the overall impact

significance ratings, assuming mitigation measures are effectively

implemented, are (refer to Table 1):

A very low noise impact was predicted during construction activities as this would be temporary. With mitigation, these impacts could be reduced to insignificant;

Socio economic impacts were determined to be insignificant, in the construction phase of the development, due to the relatively small scale nature and short time period of the construction activities. With the use of local labour and other measures this can be increased to a very low (+ve) significance;

The potential impacts from the loss of indigenous flora and fauna on the site during the construction phase are considered to be very low (-ve) with mitigation;

The potential heritage impacts (archaeological & palaeontological) during the construction phase are considered to be of a very low (-ve) significance; however with mitigation the significance of these potential impacts could be optimised to a very low (+ve) significance;

The potential air quality impacts (dust) on the site during the construction phase are considered to be very low (-ve), as construction will be over a short period. With mitigation, the significance of these potential impacts could be reduced to insignificant;

Waste management impacts were anticipated to be very low (-ve) due to the limited construction activities. With correct disposal of waste this impact can be reduced to insignificant;

Traffic impacts during the construction phase are considered to be insignificant;

Safety impacts during the operational phase are predicted to be very low due to the safety measures that are to be incorporated;

Noise during the operational phase is rated as a low (-ve) significance as the plant is to be located in an industrial area and is it is anticipated that the noise emissions will remain within the permissible limits;

The proposed operational phase of the plant is anticipated to result in approximately 20 jobs, which was rated to be of a low (+ve) socio economic significance;

The significance of the contamination of surface and ground water was rated as very low (-ve) which could be reduced to insignificant with the implantation of mitigation measures;

Traffic impacts during the construction phase are considered to be very low (-ve) due to the measures that have been incorporated into the plant layout, as well as it is anticipated that a maximum of 7 trucks will access the plant in a 24 hour period;

The cumulative effect of surrounding developments on safety is rated as very low (-ve) as a result of the safety measures that are to be incorporated into the plant;

The cumulative effect on noise impacts is rated as low as the anticipated noise levels of the plant are shown to be below the



70dB(A) threshold at the fence line and as such the cumulative levels should not exceed the threshold unless the levels form the neighbouring properties are in excess of 70 dB(A);

If the No-go alternative is implemented (no air separation plant development), the anticipated jobs associated with the construction and operation of the plant, as well as the investment into the economy, will not materialise. The impact was therefore rated to have a very low (-ve) and low (-ve) significance for the construction and operation phases respectively.

1.11 Findings

1. African Oxygen (Pty) Ltd (Afrox) proposes to develop an Air Separation Plant (ASP) in Zone 3 of the Coega IDZ, Port Elizabeth.

2. The plant will produce Liquefied cryogenic Nitrogen (LIN), Liquefied cryogenic Oxygen (LOX) and Liquefied cryogenic Argon (LAR).

3. The ASP is designed to have a production capacity of 150 tons per day (tpd) and will store the product on site in tanks for distribution; the table below shows a breakdown of the daily production as well as storage capacity of the products;

Product Production

Capacity (tpd) Storage Capacity

(m³)

LIN 100 910

LOX 50 300*

LAR 3 50

There is an additional amount of hold-up Oxygen inside the cold box and other parts of the new ASU equating to approximately 10.5 m³ (or 12 t). This means that the maximum amount of Oxygen at the entire plant site is approximately 310.5 m³.

4. Positive impacts as a result of the proposed activity include socio-economic benefits associated with temporary and permanent employment opportunities as well as potential knowledge gained from the discovery of heritage resources.

5. The potential negative impacts, including those relating to safety risks, noise impacts, loss of flora and fauna, dust emissions, waste management and the contamination of surface and ground impacts, can be prevented and managed by implementing the specified mitigation measures.

6. The significance of all the potential negative impacts were rated to be low, very low or insignificant with the implementation of the appropriate mitigation measures, as described in the Environmental Management Programme (EMPr).

7. The no-go option is associated with negative impacts related to

the jobs created by the development. Therefore, it is socio-

economically preferred that the ASP be constructed as

proposed.

8. No major impacts were identified that should prevent to

proposed activities from continuing.

1.12 Way Forward (IAPs)

The Final BAR has identified and assessed potential impacts associated with the proposed Air Separation Plant and proposed measures to mitigate these impacts. The public participation process has given IAPs the opportunity to assist with identification of issues and potential impacts.

The comments received from IAPs and stakeholders have been incorporated into the report which has been submitted to DEDEAT in order for them to make a decision on the environmental acceptability of the proposed development and issue a Record of Decision (RoD).

The Executive Summary of this Final BAR has been distributed to registered IAPs.

Printed copies of this report are available for public review at the following locations:

Port Elizabeth Main Library; and

Motherwell Library.

Comments regarding the Final BAR can be forwarded to:

Andries Struwig at DEDEAT

Private Bag X5001, Greenacres, Port Elizabeth, 6057


Fax: (041) 508 5865

Reference Number: Ref No: ECm1/C/LN1/13/44-2013

A copy of the comments must be forwarded to:

Wanda Marais at SRK Consulting

PO Box 21842, Port Elizabeth, 6000


Fax: (041) 509 4850

SRK believes that the Final BAR provides an accurate reflection of the public participation process and the issues identified.





Table S-1: Summary of impact significance for the proposed Afrox Air Separation Plant

Impact

Construction Operation

Without Mitigation With Mitigation Without

Mitigation With Mitigation

Safety - - VERY LOW

(-ve) -

Noise Emissions VERY LOW

(-ve) INSIGNIFICANT

LOW

(-ve) -

Socio-Economic INSIGNIFICANT VERY LOW

(+ve)

LOW

(+ve) -

Removal of Indigenous Vegetation LOW

(-ve)

VERY LOW

(-ve) - -

Loss of Indigenous Fauna VERY LOW

(-ve)

VERY LOW

(-ve) - -

Heritage Impacts VERY LOW

(-ve)

VERY LOW

(+ve) - -

Dust Emissions VERY LOW

(-ve) INSIGNIFICANT - -

Waste Management VERY LOW


Traffic Impacts INSIGNIFICANT - VERY LOW

(-ve) -

Contamination of Surface and Ground Water

- - VERY LOW

(-ve) INSIGNIFICANT

Cumulative Impacts

Impact




Safety Impacts from surrounding developments

- - VERY LOW

(-ve) -

Noise Emissions - - LOW

(-ve) -

No-go alternative

Impact




Socio-Economic VERY LOW

(-ve) -

LOW

(-ve) -

SRK Consulting: Project No: 465580: Afrox Air Separation Plant – BAR Executive Summary 6


Figure S-2: Locality Plan for the proposed project

PROVINCE OF THE EASTERN CAPE

DEPARTMENT OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

AND ENVIRONMENTAL AFFAIRS

BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT (For official use only)

File Reference Number:

Application Number:

Date Received:

Basic assessment report in terms of the Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations, 2010, promulgated in terms of the National Environmental Management Act, 1998(Act No. 107 of 1998), as amended. Kindly note that: 1. This basic assessment report is a standard report that may be required by a competent authority in terms of the EIA

Regulations, 2010 and is meant to streamline applications. Please make sure that it is the report used by the particular competent authority for the activity that is being applied for.

2. The report must be typed within the spaces provided in the form. The size of the spaces provided is not necessarily

indicative of the amount of information to be provided. The report is in the form of a table that can extend itself as each space is filled with typing.

3. Where applicable tick the boxes that are applicable or black out the boxes that are not applicable in the report. 4. An incomplete report may be returned to the applicant for revision. 5. The use of “not applicable” in the report must be done with circumspection because if it is used in respect of material

information that is required by the competent authority for assessing the application, it may result in the rejection of the application as provided for in the regulations.

6. This report must be handed in at offices of the relevant competent authority as determined by each authority. 7. No faxed or e-mailed reports will be accepted.

8. The report must be compiled by an independent environmental assessment practitioner. 9. Unless protected by law, all information in the report will become public information on receipt by the competent

authority. Any interested and affected party should be provided with the information contained in this report on request, during any stage of the application process.

10. A competent authority may require that for specified types of activities in defined situations only parts of this report

need to be completed.

SECTION A: ACTIVITY INFORMATION

Has a specialist been consulted to assist with the completion of this section?

YES NO

If YES, please complete form XX for each specialist thus appointed: Any specialist reports must be contained in Appendix D. 1. ACTIVITY DESCRIPTION Describe the activity, which is being applied for, in detail

Introduction and Background:

African Oxygen (Pty) Ltd (Afrox), part of the Linde Group, proposes to construct and operate a new Air Separation Plant (ASP) that includes an Air Separation Unit (ASU) and associated infrastructure for the storage and handling of liquefied gases. It is proposed that the ASP be located in Zone 3 (Light Industrial Cluster) of the Coega Industrial Development Zone (IDZ), a locality map has been attached in Appendix A of this final Basic Assessment Report (BAR). At the ASP ambient air is to be used in the ASU, without any intermediates or chemical conversions, to produce Oxygen, Nitrogen and Argon. The products will be stored in storage tanks as liquefied gases; liquid cryogenic Oxygen (LOX), liquid cryogenic Nitrogen (LIN) and liquid cryogenic Argon (LAR). Of the gases that are going to be handled and stored on site (Oxygen, Nitrogen and Argon) only Oxygen is classified as a dangerous good according to SANS No. 10234, supplement 2008, Edition 1.00. Nitrogen and Argon are not listed in SANS No. 10234, supplement 2008, Edition 1.00. Based on the design capacity of the ASU and the capacity of the storage tanks, the total storage capacity of dangerous goods (Oxygen) in the new ASP, as shown in table 3 below, is within the thresholds listed in Activity No. 13 of Listing Notice 1 (GNR 544, 18 June 2010).

Table 1: The listed activity as per the NEMA EIA regulations 2010

Government Notice Activity No. Description

No. GNR 544 13 The construction of facilities or infrastructure for storage or for the storage and handling, of a dangerous good, where such storage occurs in containers with a combined capacity of 80 but not exceeding 500 cubic meters

Project overview:

The project involves the construction and operation of a new ASP to supply various customers in Port Elizabeth as well as the Eastern Cape region with Oxygen, Nitrogen and Argon. The ASP includes an ASU for the production of Oxygen, Nitrogen and Argon, storage tanks for the on-site storage of the liquefied gases LOX, LIN and LAR and associated infrastructure. The new ASP has a total design production capacity of 150 tons per day (tpd). Table 2 below shows a breakdown of the daily production capacity of each of the products to be produced at the plant.

Table 2: Breakdown of the products and production capacity per day

Product Abbreviation Production capacity (tpd)

Liquefied cryogenic Nitrogen LIN 100

Liquefied cryogenic Oxygen LOX 50

Liquefied cryogenic Argon LAR 3

The liquefied gases (Oxygen, Nitrogen and Argon) are to be stored at low temperatures and at a slightly higher pressure than the ambient pressure. The storage capacity of the different tanks are as follows: Table 3: Breakdown of the storage capacity on site for each of the products

Product Abbreviation Storage Tanks

Total Storage

capacity (m³) Tons

Liquefied cryogenic Nitrogen LIN 3 x 300 m³ 1 x 10 m³

910 736

Liquefied cryogenic Oxygen LOX 1 x 300 m³ 300* 342

Liquefied cryogenic Argon LAR 1 x 50 m³ 50 70

* There is an additional amount of hold-up Oxygen inside the cold box and other parts of the new ASU equating to approximately 10.5 m³ (or 12 t). This means that the maximum amount of Oxygen at the entire plant site is approximately 310.5 m³.

Plant infrastructure:

A detailed layout of the plant and associated infrastructure is attached in Appendix C of this BAR.

The plant infrastructure consists of the following: 1. Guard house, gated entrance and security fence around the property;

2. Multiple purpose building (offices etc)

3. Car park and road infrastructure

4. Filling station (Diesel)

5. Storage Container including ‘SALSA’ and associated infrastructure

6. Weighbridge and associated infrastructure

7. Air Separation Unit (ASU)

7.1. Electrical Power and Control Systems

7.2. Machine House

7.3. Molecular Sieve Absorbers

7.4. Cooling Water System

7.5. Coldbox

8. Storage Tanks

9. Filling systems

10. Wash bay

11. Truck service area including a tyre and spares storage area

Process Description

Pure gases can be separated from air by first cooling it until it liquefies, then selectively distilling the components at their various boiling temperatures. The air is used as an industrial source of nitrogen, oxygen, argon for technical and medical uses.

The separation process requires a very tight integration of heat exchangers and separation columns in order to be efficient. A prerequisite of an ASU is a refrigeration cycle which is required to achieve the low distillation temperatures required. The cooling will be achieved through compression and expansion as well as through heat exchange against liquid products.

A simplified flow diagram of the process (Appendix C2) shows the main components as well as the supply- and product streams of the ASU and storage systems. The reference numbers provided in brackets in the section below refer to the more technical process flow diagram which is attached as Appendix C3.

The operation process is as follows:

1. Air compression and precooling system Ambient air is drawn into the process at the ‘air intake’ point, the incoming air is first cleaned from dust and other particles in an air filter (S1146) and then compressed to a pressure of approximately 6 bar by a multistage turbo-type air compressor (C1161). This compressed air enters the ‘cooling water after cooler’ (E1121) and subsequently the ‘chilled water after cooler’ (E2418) where it is finally cooled down to around 15°C. It then passes through a water separator (D2431) which removes the condensed water before entering the molecular sieve station.

2. Molecular sieve station (air purification) The process air passes through the molecular sieve station; which removes any remaining water vapour, carbon dioxide (CO2) and any hydrocarbons.

The adsorbents have a limited adsorption capacity and need to be regenerated after a certain time. While the air passes through one adsorber vessel, the other adsorber vessel goes through a regenerating cycle. This regeneration process involves a heating cycle whereby a hot dry stream of nitrogen gas is heated by an electric heater (E2618), and passed through the molecular sieve in the opposite direction to the normal process air flow. This is followed by a cooling cycle during which the adsorber is cooled with dry nitrogen gas which bypasses the electric heater.

The adsorbers are continuously alternating between the adsorption cycle and the regeneration cycle, in this way one adsorber is always available for the air purification process.

3. Process streams distribution and refrigeration, air recycle After passing through the Molecular Sieve the process air is further passed through a series of compressors and coolers. The compressed chilled air enters the coldbox (see box 1 below) where it is further cooled to around condensing temperature.

Box 1: Description of the coldbox

The coldbox houses the equipment for the cryogenic air separation process. It is positioned between the Machine House and Storage Tanks in a vertical position; its anticipated dimensions are 34.59 x 4.2 x 4 m. The coldbox is completely assembled off site.

4. Rectification (Oxygen & Nitrogen) pressure column In the pressure column (T3211) the air is separated into pure nitrogen, yielding at the top of

the column and into oxygen enriched liquid at the bottom of the column; through a process of repeated distillation known as rectification.

Liquid oxygen product (LOX) is withdrawn from the sump of the low pressure column, sub-cooled and fed to the LOX storage tank; with the liquid nitrogen product (LIN) being withdrawn from the top of the low pressure column to the LIN storage system.

5. Argon Extraction When argon is produced, a vapour side draw is taken from the low pressure column where the argon concentration is highest and is sent to the crude argon column system which is separated into two column sections (T4110/ T4111) in order to keep the cold box height in reasonable limitations. The pure liquid argon product (LAR) is withdrawn from the bottom of the pure argon column and fed to the LAR storage tank.

6. Product storage Liquid oxygen (LOX), liquid nitrogen (LIN) and liquid argon (LAR) are each stored in large-capacity tanks at a slight overpressure ready for liquid transport. Since LOX and LIN have a very low temperature (approx. -200 C), special storage tanks are required. The storage tanks are constructed with a double shell; whereby the inner vessel is made of stainless steel, and acts as the liquid storage vessel, and the outer vessel is made of carbon steel. The storage tanks are vacuum insulated and equipped with appropriate safety valves.

The three 300 m³ and one 10 m³ LIN tanks, as well as the one 50 m³ LAR tank, are positioned vertically while the one 300 m³ LOX tank is positioned horizontally (see diagrams included in Appendix C). This allows for the different products to be gravity fed to the storage tanks from the pressure columns situated in the coldbox, thereby eliminating the need for pumps.

7. Filling System To ensure the distribution of the liquid products (LOX, LIN or LAR), three filling pumps are included in with the ASP. The filling pumps are positioned near the storage tanks and each pump is fed from a separate storage unit to ensure that there is no mixing of the products. The liquefied products are transferred into trucks for distribution; it is anticipated that approximately 6 trucks will be required per day in order to meet the demand.

In order to ensure that the trucks do not exceed the total weight allowed to drive on public roads, every truck will be weighed upon arrival and departure via a central truck weigh bridge. The filling process is then controlled via a flow meter in order monitor, measure and record the loading of the trucks. Each distribution order will be controlled by a Linde process-system called “SALSA”. The SALSA system ensures, among other things, checking of the suitability and permission of vehicles for the desired product, determination of the allowed cargo load, material identification and protection against overfilling.

Associated Infrastructure

Truck Service Point The truck service point consists of a wash bay, a truck service area and a small tyre and spares store of approximately 10 m² in size. In this way trucks can be washed and receive attention for small maintenance issues (e.g. replace tyres).

Fuel Filling Station (Diesel) The fuel station allows trucks to be filled up with Diesel if necessary. The filling station includes a 25 000 litre double walled underground storage tank, equipped with a leak detection system, and a filling pump.

Operating Hours and Staff

The ASU is designed for continuous on-site operation from a local control room or via remote operation control from a remote central control room. AFROX are responsible for the proper operation of the ASP and for performing regular inspection, maintenance, servicing and repair work on site.

The plant is designed for continuous operation, 24 hours a day 365 days a year. In order to operate effectively the ASP will require 8 persons for transport-works and an additional 12 persons for plant operation. The plant operators are to work in three shifts resulting in 4 operators per shift. The plant is to be staffed around the clock by at least one trained and skilled employee.

Utilities

Electrical Power The new ASP will be connected to a 11 kV, 50 Hz substation (see appendix C14) by Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality (NMBM). The substation is to be located on the western boundary of the site as indicated in the layout plan (Appendix C1). The 11kV cable system between the NMBM substation and the ASU plant will be directly buried. The ASU plant requires 4250 kW for operation.

Water The new ASU plant is anticipated to utilise 14 m³/h of potable water for make-up water.

Substances used on site

The following table lists the substances that will be on site as they are required for the correct operation of the equipment during the production process. These substances are as follows:

Table 4: Substances on site

Substance Quantity Remarks Exchange Frequency

Machine Oil ISO VG32/46

Approx. 800 litres For Air Compressor 3 to 5 years

Machine Oil VG32/46 Approx. 1 300 litres For Recycle Air Compressor

3 to 5 years

Turbine Oil ISO VG46 450 litres For Turbine (X3471) 3 to 5 years

R134a 200 kg Refrigeration Unit No Exchange

Alugel LA20 1 200 kg Adsorber filling 10 years

Molsieve LMS920 3 900 kg Adsorber filling 10 years

Nalco 3DT104 Continuously dosing For water treatment N/A

Nalco 3DT129 Continuously dosing For water treatment N/A

Nalco 77352 Continuously dosing For water treatment N/A

Nalco Trac107 Continuously dosing For water treatment N/A

Diesel 25 000 litres Filling station storage tank N/A

Site Access and Plant Safety

The ASU is to be situated in Zone 3 of the Coega IDZ between Hamile Road to the south and Bumba Road to the north. Access to Zone 3 can be gained from two points, namely; from the Coega IDZ via Neptune Road and from the R102. The whole plant site will be fenced and access to the plant will only be permissible via authorisation and will be from the south side of

the plant, via a controlled entrance off Hamile Road.

The plant is provided with safety-related monitoring and protection equipment as well as being fitted with automatic shut-offs and emergency stop switches. In addition, a risk analysis (“HAZOP-Study”) will be performed for the entire system, in which the proposed measures against hazards are evaluated. As a result dangerous conditions such as excessive pressures, extreme temperatures and the accumulation of critical materials or leakages will be prevented.

Timeline

It is envisaged that the plant is to be operational by March 2015.

2. FEASIBLE AND REASONABLE ALTERNATIVES “alternatives”, in relation to a proposed activity, means different means of meeting the general purpose and requirements of the activity, which may include alternatives to— (a) the property on which or location where it is proposed to undertake the activity; (b) the type of activity to be undertaken; (c) the design or layout of the activity; (d) the technology to be used in the activity; (e) the operational aspects of the activity; and (f) the option of not implementing the activity. Describe alternatives that are considered in this application. Alternatives should include a consideration of all possible means by which the purpose and need of the proposed activity could be accomplished in the specific instance taking account of the interest of the applicant in the activity. The no-go alternative must in all cases be included in the assessment phase as the baseline against which the impacts of the other alternatives are assessed. The determination of whether site or activity (including different processes etc.) or both is appropriate needs to be informed by the specific circumstances of the activity and its environment. After receipt of this report the competent authority may also request the applicant to assess additional alternatives that could possibly accomplish the purpose and need of the proposed activity if it is clear that realistic alternatives have not been considered to a reasonable extent.

ALTERNATIVES CONSIDERED

1. Location

Port Elizabeth was chosen as the location to establish the new Air Separation Plant due to its proximity to Afrox’s main clients in the region. The Coega IDZ was specifically chosen due to the benefits of being associated with an IDZ, the infrastructure and the future development growth of the area. The specific site within Zone 3 of the IDZ was identified by the CDC.

As such no alternative site is proposed.

2. Type of activity

Afrox specialises in the gas industry and currently supplies gas products (specifically Oxygen, Nitrogen and Argon) to the Eastern Cape region. As the demand for these products grow Afrox have had to assess the most effective way to continue supplying the area in the future. Afrox have an existing filling station in Port Elizabeth which relies on the importing of the gas products from other regions of the country which is expensive and not viable in the long term, due to this reason expanding the filling station was deemed non-viable. A smaller type of ASU, which involves a pressure separation process, was considered but this was removed as an option due to the low purity that of the resulting products. Therefore the only viable option is to install a cryogenic ASU

plant capable of meeting the current as well as future anticipated demands.

As such no alternative activity is proposed.

3. Design and layout

The design and layout of the plant has been altered to incorporate the CDC Architectural Guidelines, this included the relocation of the car park to the front of the building to meet the requirement of not building within the identified reserve; the accommodation of trucks on the Afrox property (i.e. off the road) to avoid traffic congestion and the design of the building to fit in with required guidelines. The buildings have also incorporated environmentally sustainable design measures to improve the efficiency of the heating and cooling systems of the buildings by insulating them as well as glazing the windows.

As such no alternative design/layout is proposed

4. Technology alternatives

The Linde Group, of which Afrox is a member, is a world leading supplier of industrial, process and specialty gases. They have been in industry for 130 years during which time they have made major technological advances which have resulted in the increased efficiency of the process. This best available technology is to be utilized in the proposed Air Separation Plant.

As such no alternative technology is proposed

5. Operational aspects

As part of the operations of the plant a fully closed cooling system was considered, however; this option was eliminated as a result of the increased power and reduced efficiency that it would cause.

As such no alternative operational aspects are proposed

6. No go alternative

The No Go alternative would result in Afrox having to continue importing products from other regions of the country. This method is expensive and results in a large amount of trucks having to travel long distances on the roads transporting the products. This approach is considered to not be economically viable to continue to meet the current and future demand requirements of the industry.

Paragraphs 3 – 13 below should be completed for each alternative.

3. ACTIVITY POSITION Indicate the position of the activity using the latitude and longitude of the centre point of the site for each alternative site. The co-ordinates should be in degrees and decimal minutes. The minutes should have at least three decimals to ensure adequate accuracy. The projection that must be used in all cases is the WGS84 spheroid in a national or local projection. List alternative sites if applicable. Alternative:

Latitude (S):

Longitude (E):

Alternative S11 (preferred or only site alternative)

33o 47.701’ 25o 37.647‘

Alternative S2 (if any)


In the case of linear activities: Alternative: Latitude (S): Longitude (E): Alternative S1 (preferred or only route alternative)

Starting point of the activity

Middle point of the activity

End point of the activity









For route alternatives that are longer than 500m, please provide an addendum with co-ordinates taken every 250 meters along the route for each alternative alignment. 4. PHYSICAL SIZE OF THE ACTIVITY Indicate the physical size of the preferred activity/technology as well as alternative activities/technologies (footprints): Alternative: Size of the activity:

Alternative A12 (preferred activity alternative) 13 540 m2

Alternative A2 (if any)


or, for linear activities: Alternative: Length of the

activity:

Alternative A1 (preferred activity alternative)


1 “Alternative S..” refer to site alternatives.

2 “Alternative A..” refer to activity, process, technology or other alternatives.


Indicate the size of the alternative sites or servitudes (within which the above footprints will occur): Alternative: Size of the

site/servitude:

Alternative A1 (preferred activity alternative)



5. SITE ACCESS

Does ready access to the site exist? YES

If NO, what is the distance over which a new access road will be built

Describe the type of access road planned:

Access to the plant is via the existing road infrastructure in the Coega Development Corporation IDZ. Access to the plant will be by authorisation only via the factory gate on the south side of the Afrox site, off Hamile Road (Road 19). It is anticipated that all internal roads will consist of 10 to 15 cm interlocking paving stones laid on a suitably prepared base.

Include the position of the access road on the site plan and required map, as well as an indication of the road in relation to the site. 6. SITE OR ROUTE PLAN

A detailed site or route plan(s) must be prepared for each alternative site or alternative activity. It must be attached as Appendix A to this document. The site or route plans must indicate the following: 6.1 the scale of the plan which must be at least a scale of 1:500; 6.2 the property boundaries and numbers of all the properties within 50 metres of the site; 6.3 the current land use as well as the land use zoning of each of the properties adjoining the site or

sites; 6.4 the exact position of each element of the application as well as any other structures on the site; 6.5 the position of services, including electricity supply cables (indicate above or underground), water

supply pipelines, boreholes, street lights, sewage pipelines, storm water infrastructure and telecommunication infrastructure;

6.6 all trees and shrubs taller than 1.8 metres; 6.7 walls and fencing including details of the height and construction material; 6.8 servitudes indicating the purpose of the servitude; 6.9 sensitive environmental elements within 100 metres of the site or sites including (but not limited

thereto): rivers; the 1:100 year flood line (where available or where it is required by DWA); ridges; cultural and historical features; areas with indigenous vegetation (even if it is degraded or invested with alien species);

6.9 for gentle slopes the 1 metre contour intervals must be indicated on the plan and whenever the slope of the site exceeds 1:10, the 500mm contours must be indicated on the plan; and

6.10 the positions from where photographs of the site were taken.

The proposed site plan is attached in Appendix A to this Final Basic Assessment Report (BAR)

7. SITE PHOTOGRAPHS Colour photographs from the centre of the site must be taken in at least the eight major compass directions with a description of each photograph. Photographs must be attached under Appendix B to this form. It must be supplemented with additional photographs of relevant features on the site, if applicable.

Photographs can be found attached as Appendix B to this Final BAR.

8. FACILITY ILLUSTRATION A detailed illustration of the activity must be provided at a scale of 1:200 as Appendix C for activities that include structures. The illustrations must be to scale and must represent a realistic image of the planned activity. The illustration must give a representative view of the activity.

The proposed development illustrations are included in Appendix C of this Final BAR.

9. ACTIVITY MOTIVATION 9(a) Socio-economic value of the activity

What is the expected capital value of the activity on completion? R 305 mil.

What is the expected yearly income that will be generated by or as a result of the activity?

R 80 mil.

Will the activity contribute to service infrastructure? NO

Is the activity a public amenity? NO

How many new employment opportunities will be created in the development phase of the activity?

Up to 300

What is the expected value of the employment opportunities during the development phase?

R 15 mil.

What percentage of this will accrue to previously disadvantaged individuals? Not available

How many permanent new employment opportunities will be created during the operational phase of the activity?

Up to 20

What is the expected current value of the employment opportunities during the first 10 years?

Not available

What percentage of this will accrue to previously disadvantaged individuals? Not available

9(b) Need and desirability of the activity Motivate and explain the need and desirability of the activity (including demand for the activity):

Currently Afrox purchases LIN & LOX from PetroSA in Mosselbay to supply the Eastern Cape market

(approximately 400 km away from the market). This source is no longer sufficient to meet the demand

and the shortfall is imported from Afrox’s Cape Town facility, more than 800 km away. Argon is

imported from Afrox facilities in the inland power zone (either Witbank or Pretoria) more than 1 100 km

away from the market.

Afrox proposes to invest in a 150 tpd (100 tpd LIN, 50 tpd LOX, 3 tpd LAR) stand-alone merchant plant

in Port Elizabeth. Establishment of the ASU in Port Elizabeth will provide Afrox with a cost effective

and reliable solution, compared to the traditional expensive and unreliable model of transporting the

products across large distances. Building a plant of this size will allow Afrox the opportunity to protect

its current market position, but to also capitalize on future growth opportunities that are anticipated for

this region.

It is proposed that the ASU be located within the Coega IDZ. More than 90% of the LIN and 60% of

the LOX demand is centred in Port Elizabeth.

Indicate any benefits that the activity will have for society in general:

The establishment of an ASU in the region will have the following associated benefits:

Afrox’s merchant market in the Eastern Cape comprises of 25 LOX customers (19 of which are

hospitals), the ASU will improve reliability of LOX supply for these hospitals by reducing the

dependency on supply from sources outside of the province;

The reduction of transportation distances resulting from bringing in LIN, LOX & LAR from outside of

the province;

Competitive pricing structure for industries reliant on LIN, LOX & LAR in the region; and

Jobs will be created during the construction phase of the ASU.

Indicate any benefits that the activity will have for the local communities where the activity will be located:

The local communities will benefit from the employment opportunities that will be created during the construction phase of the air separation plant.

10. APPLICABLE LEGISLATION, POLICIES AND/OR GUIDELINES List all legislation, policies and/or guidelines of any sphere of government that are applicable to the application as contemplated in the EIA regulations, if applicable: Title of legislation, policy or guideline:

Administering authority:

Date:

National Environmental Management Act (NEMA) Act 107 of 1998, including the NEMA Amendment Act 2008 (No. 62 of 2008)

DEA & DEDEAT 27 November 1998

NEMA EIA Regulations, 2010 (Government Notice Nos. 543, 544, 545 and 546)

DEA & DEDEAT 18 June 2010

Constitution of the Republic of South Africa Act No. 108 of 1996

South African Government

1996

Eastern Cape Biodiversity Conservation Plan DEA 2007

National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act (No. 10 of 2004)

DEA & DEDEAT

2004

Occupational Health & Safety Act, 1993 (Act No. 85 of 1993) (OHSA) as amended in July 2001

Department of Labour 30 July 2001

The National Heritage Resources Act, 1999 (Act No 25 of 1999) as amended

SAHRA 1999

The National Water Act, 1998 (Act No. 36 of 1998) Department of Water Affairs (DWA)

1998

Municipal By-laws NMBM 2010

Environmental Conservation Act (No. 73 of 1989) DEA & DEDEAT 1989

National Building Regulations and Building Standards Act (No 103 of 1977)

National Government

1977

Model Noise Regulations published under the Environment Conservation Act, 1989 (Act 73 of 1989)

National Government 1989

11. WASTE, EFFLUENT, EMISSION AND NOISE MANAGEMENT 11(a) Solid waste management

Will the activity produce solid construction waste during the construction/initiation phase?

YES

If yes, what estimated quantity will be produced per month? Minimal

How will the construction solid waste be disposed of (describe)?

Small quantities of solid waste produced during the construction phase of the proposed development and will primarily consist of building rubble and litter (e.g. plastic, glass, etc.). The contractor will remove and discard any waste resulting from construction to the closest registered waste disposal site. Where possible, construction waste will be re-used and/or recycled.

Any hazardous waste will be collected and stored separately according to the specific requirements of the waste type and will be collected by an approved waste disposal service provider and will be disposed of at an approved hazardous waste disposal landfill site.

Where will the construction solid waste be disposed of (describe)?

As above

Will the activity produce solid waste during its operational phase? YES

If yes, what estimated quantity will be produced per month? Minimal

How will the solid waste be disposed of (describe)?

Very small quantities of waste will be generated during the operational phase and are readily accommodated within the existing waste management infrastructure within the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipal area.

An integrated waste management approach that is based on waste minimisation will be used and should incorporate reduction, recycling, re-use and disposal where appropriate. All general waste material (e.g. non-hazardous waste) will be contained in general waste bins and disposed of via the municipal waste system.

Hazardous substances (e.g. oil rags, oil cans, spent molecular sieve, etc.) will be disposed of at an appropriate classified waste site (unless it is to be recycled by approved methods), as per the National Environmental Management Waste Act, 2008 (Act 59 of 2008).

Where will the solid waste be disposed if it does not feed into a municipal waste stream (describe)?

As above

If the solid waste (construction or operational phases) will not be disposed of in a registered landfill site or be taken up in a municipal waste stream, then the applicant should consult with the competent authority to determine whether it is necessary to change to an application for scoping and EIA.

Can any part of the solid waste be classified as hazardous in terms of the relevant legislation?

NO

If yes, inform the competent authority and request a change to an application for scoping and EIA.

Is the activity that is being applied for a solid waste handling or treatment NO

facility?

If yes, then the applicant should consult with the competent authority to determine whether it is necessary to change to an application for scoping and EIA. 11(b) Liquid effluent

Will the activity produce effluent, other than normal sewage, that will be disposed of in a municipal sewage system?

NO

If yes, what estimated quantity will be produced per month?

Will the activity produce any effluent that will be treated and/or disposed of on site?

Yes NO

If yes, the applicant should consult with the competent authority to determine whether it is necessary to change to an application for scoping and EIA.

Will the activity produce effluent that will be treated and/or disposed of at another facility?

NO

If yes, provide the particulars of the facility:

Facility name: N/A

Contact person:

Postal address:

Postal code:

Telephone: Cell:

E-mail: Fax:

Describe the measures that will be taken to ensure the optimal reuse or recycling of waste water, if any:

The ASU will generate condensate, on a continuous basis, from the following sources:

Condensate from compressor: 7.2 m³/h (172.8 m³/day)

Side-stream blow down: 23.76 m³/h for 20 minutes every two hours (95.04 m³/day)

Cooling water blow down: 7 m³/h (168 m³/day)

This water will be discharged to the municipal sewer and is expected to meet the municipal effluent discharge standards (being essentially condensation from the atmosphere containing no additives from the process). No treatment or re-use of this water will take place.

A control pit will be installed to ensure that only rainwater is sent to the collection system. The course of the pipelines for surface water and for sewerage is shown in Appendix C15.

11(c) Emissions into the atmosphere

Will the activity release emissions into the atmosphere? NO

If yes, is it controlled by any legislation of any sphere of government? NO


If no, describe the emissions in terms of type and concentration:

It is probable that dust will be generated during the construction phase, particularly during high wind conditions. Mitigation measures are provided in the EMPr and will become legal and binding once authorisation is received from the authorities.

During operation of the plant the ambient air is sucked in and separated as product streams in the elements Oxygen, Nitrogen and Argon. The remaining air is discharged back to the atmosphere. Only small amounts of evaporation losses from the storage tanks for liquefied gases (Oxygen, Nitrogen and Argon) and some further amounts of impure Oxygen, Nitrogen and Argon at the ASU are emitted. All emitted gases are components of the ambient air originally drawn in, and contain no additional components.

11(d) Generation of noise

Will the activity generate noise? YES

If yes, is it controlled by any legislation of any sphere of government? NO


If no, describe the noise in terms of type and level:

Noise will temporarily be generated during the construction phase due to plant machinery, equipment and vehicle movement; however, due to the location of the plant as well as the short term of the construction period it is not anticipated to result in a significant impact.

During the feasibility study of the new air separation plant a noise impact assessment was undertaken by the engineering office of IBAS (Ingenieurgesellschaft für Bauphysik, Akustik und Schwingungstechnik mbH). A copy of the assessment has been attached to this BAR as Appendix G. The operation is anticipated to operate 24 hours a day 365 days a week and as such the basis for the calculation refers to normal operating conditions of a stationary operation (24 hours a day), with a constant noise level by the process plant. Additional truck driving and loading takes place 24 hours a day.

The assessment has taken into consideration that during operation the relevant sound sources (compressors, pumps etc.) of the new ASP will be erected inside soundproofed buildings (machine house, pump house). The anticipated preliminary construction methods result in a transmission loss from the walls of ≥ 42 dB, roofs of ≥ 37 dB and the doors and gates of 22 dB and 24 dB respectively. Noise levels from all the outdoor equipment, vehicular traffic as well as the wash bay was taken into consideration in the assessment.

The results of the assessment show that the ASP will lead to the following sound pressure levels at specific points within the area being developed on the Afrox property:

Point on site boundary Sound pressure level

IP 1 (Southwest) 66 dB(A)

IP 2 (Northwest) 65 dB(A)

IP 3 (Northeast) 68 dB(A)

IP 4 (Southeast) 62 dB(A)

(The figures in the assessment attached in Appendix G shows the position of the identified points).

As shown above the noise levels at the fence line of the site should not exceed 70 dB(A) at any point during the day or night; In accordance with SANS 10103:2008 (note 4) for industries

legitimately operating in an industrial district during the entire 24 h day/night cycle, LR,eq,d = LR,eg,n = 70 dB(A) can be considered as typical and normal. As such the results of this report demonstrate that the sound technical requirements can be fulfilled with the planned design. Furthermore the sound pressure level of 85 dB(A) at the working areas will not be exceeded.

12. WATER USE Please indicate the source(s) of water that will be used for the activity by ticking the appropriate box(es)

municipal

If water is to be extracted from groundwater, river, stream, dam, lake or any other natural feature, please indicate

the volume that will be extracted per month:

Does the activity require a water use permit from the Department of Water Affairs?

NO

If yes, please submit the necessary application to the Department of Water Affairs and attach proof thereof to this application if it has been submitted. 13. ENERGY EFFICIENCY Describe the design measures, if any, that have been taken to ensure that the activity is energy efficient:

This refrigeration cycle requires a large amount of energy to work; this energy is provided by the compression of the air at the inlet of the unit. For improved efficiency the proposed ASU includes an expansion turbine for cooling; the output of the expander helps drive the air compressor. In addition, the cold equipment has to be kept within an insulated enclosure called a ‘cold box’ to maximise efficiency.

For reasons of energy efficiency and to minimize heat input into the system all parts with cryogenic liquefied gases are insulated with a state of the art cold insulation system.

All compressors of the air separation plant will be driven by medium-voltage motors.

For refrigeration in the ASU turbines are used, in which the gas is expanded. The turbines are coupled with a compressor and an electric generator. Thus, the released energy of the expanding gas can be partially recovered.

The buildings of the new plant (i.e. machine house, pump house) will be insulated with 100 mm mineral fibre board (Rg > 50 kg/m³).

The windows to the buildings will be glazed in order to improve heating and cooling efficiency and additionally the parking areas will be covered; resulting in energy savings due to the reduced operation of car air-conditioning systems.

Describe how alternative energy sources have been taken into account or been built into the design of the activity, if any:

N/A

SECTION B: SITE/AREA/PROPERTY DESCRIPTION Important notes:

For linear activities (pipelines, etc) as well as activities that cover very large sites, it may be necessary to complete this section for each part of the site that has a significantly different environment. In such cases please complete copies of Section C and indicate the area, which is covered by each copy No. on the Site Plan.

Section C Copy No. (e.g. A):

Paragraphs 1 - 6 below must be completed for each alternative.

Has a specialist been consulted to assist with the completion of this section?

YES NO

If YES, please complete form XX for each specialist thus appointed: All specialist reports must be contained in Appendix D. 1. GRADIENT OF THE SITE Indicate the general gradient of the site. Alternative S1:

Flat

Alternative S2 (if any):


2. LOCATION IN LANDSCAPE Indicate the landform(s) that best describes the site: 2.1 Ridgeline 2.2 Plateau 2.3 Side slope of hill/mountain 2.4 Closed valley 2.5 Open valley 2.6 Plain 2.7 Undulating plain / low hills 2.8 Dune 2.9 Seafront

None – flat industrial area

3. GROUNDWATER, SOIL AND GEOLOGICAL STABILITY OF THE SITE Is the site(s) located on any of the following (tick the appropriate boxes)?

Alternative S1: Alternative S2 (if any):


Shallow water table (less than 1.5m deep)

NO

Dolomite, sinkhole or doline areas

NO

Seasonally wet soils (often close to water bodies)

NO

Unstable rocky slopes or steep slopes with loose soil

NO

Dispersive soils (soils that dissolve in water)

NO

Soils with high clay content (clay fraction more than 40%)

NO

Any other unstable soil or geological feature

NO

An area sensitive to erosion

NO

If you are unsure about any of the above or if you are concerned that any of the above aspects may be an issue of concern in the application, an appropriate specialist should be appointed to assist in the completion of this section. (Information in respect of the above will often be available as part of the project information or at the planning sections of local authorities. Where it exists, the 1:50 000 scale Regional Geotechnical Maps prepared by the Council for Geo Science may also be consulted). 4. GROUNDCOVER Indicate the types of groundcover present on the site: 4.1 Natural veld – good condition E 4.2 Natural veld – scattered aliens E 4.3 Natural veld with heavy alien infestation E 4.4 Veld dominated by alien species E 4.5 Gardens 4.6 Sport field 4.7 Cultivated land 4.8 Paved surface 4.9 Building or other structure 4.10 Bare soil The location of all identified rare or endangered species or other elements should be accurately indicated on the site plan(s).

Natural veld - good condition E

Natural veld with scattered

aliens E

If any of the boxes marked with an “E “is ticked, please consult an appropriate specialist to assist in the completion of this section if the environmental assessment practitioner doesn’t have the necessary expertise. 5. LAND USE CHARACTER OF SURROUNDING AREA Indicate land uses and/or prominent features that currently occur within a 500m radius of the site and give description of how this influences the application or may be impacted upon by the application:

5.1 Natural area YES

5.2 Low density residential NO

5.3 Medium density residential NO

5.4 High density residential NO

5.5 Informal residential A NO

5.6 Retail commercial & warehousing NO

5.7 Light industrial YES

5.8 Medium industrial AN YES

5.9 Heavy industrial AN NO

5.10 Power station NO

5.11 Office / consulting room NO

5.12 Military or police base / station / compound NO

5.13 Spoil heap or slimes dam A NO

5.14 Quarry, sand or borrow pit NO

5.15 Dam or reservoir NO

5.16 Hospital/medical centre NO

5.17 School NO

5.18 Tertiary education facility NO

5.19 Church NO

5.20 Old age home NO

5.21 Sewage treatment plant A NO

5.22 Train station or shunting yard N NO

5.23 Railway line N YES

5.24 Major road (4 lanes or more) N NO

5.25 Airport N NO

5.26 Harbour NO

5.27 Sport facilities NO

5.28 Golf course NO

5.29 Polo fields NO

5.30 Filling station H NO

5.31 Landfill or waste treatment site NO

5.32 Plantation NO

5.33 Agriculture NO

5.34 River, stream or wetland YES

5.35 Nature conservation area NO

5.36 Mountain, koppie or ridge NO

5.37 Museum NO

5.38 Historical building NO

5.39 Protected Area NO

5.40 Graveyard NO

5.41 Archaeological site NO

5.42 Other land uses (describe):

If any of the boxes marked with an “N “are ticked, how will this impact / be impacted upon by the proposed activity.

5.23 – The plant will have no impact on the railway line and noise generated from the railway line will not be an issue as this is an industrial area, with its own noise related impacts.

If any of the boxes marked with an "An" are ticked, how will this impact / be impacted upon by the proposed activity. If YES, specify and explain:

5.8 – No Impact as the proposed activity fits in with the surrounding land use (industrial)

If any of the boxes marked with an "H" are ticked, how will this impact / be impacted upon by the proposed activity. If YES, specify and explain:

N/A

6. CULTURAL/HISTORICAL FEATURES

Are there any signs of culturally or historically significant elements, as defined in section 2 of the National Heritage Resources Act, 1999, (Act No. 25 of 1999), including

NO

Archaeological or paleontological sites, on or close (within 20m) to the site?

NO

If YES, explain:

N/A

If uncertain, conduct a specialist investigation by a recognised specialist in the field to establish whether there is such a feature(s) present on or close to the site.

Briefly explain the findings of the specialist:

N/A

Will any building or structure older than 60 years be affected in any way? NO

Is it necessary to apply for a permit in terms of the National Heritage Resources Act, 1999 (Act 25 of 1999)?

NO

If yes, please submit or, make sure that the applicant or a specialist submits the necessary application to SAHRA or the relevant provincial heritage agency and attach proof thereof to this application if such application has been made.

N/A

SECTION C: PUBLIC PARTICIPATION 1. ADVERTISEMENT The person conducting a public participation process must take into account any guidelines applicable to public participation as contemplated in section 24J of the Act and must give notice to all potential interested and affected parties of the application which is subjected to public participation by— (a) fixing a notice board (of a size at least 60cm by 42cm; and must display the required

information in lettering and in a format as may be determined by the competent authority) at a place conspicuous to the public at the boundary or on the fence of— (i) the site where the activity to which the application relates is or is to be undertaken; and

(ii) any alternative site mentioned in the application; (b) giving written notice to—

(i) the owner or person in control of that land if the applicant is not the owner or person in control of the land;

(ii) the occupiers of the site where the activity is or is to be undertaken or to any alternative site where the activity is to be undertaken;

(iii) owners and occupiers of land adjacent to the site where the activity is or is to be undertaken or to any alternative site where the activity is to be undertaken;

(iv) the municipal councillor of the ward in which the site or alternative site is situated and any organisation of ratepayers that represent the community in the area;

(v) the municipality which has jurisdiction in the area; (vi) any organ of state having jurisdiction in respect of any aspect of the activity; and (vii) any other party as required by the competent authority;

(c) placing an advertisement in— (i) one local newspaper; or

(ii) any official Gazette that is published specifically for the purpose of providing public notice of applications or other submissions made in terms of these Regulations;

(d) placing an advertisement in at least one provincial newspaper or national newspaper, if the activity has or may have an impact that extends beyond the boundaries of the metropolitan or local municipality in which it is or will be undertaken: Provided that this paragraph need not be complied with if an advertisement has been placed in an official Gazette referred to in subregulation 54(c)(ii); and

(e) using reasonable alternative methods, as agreed to by the competent authority, in those instances where a person is desiring of but unable to participate in the process due to— (i) illiteracy; (ii) disability; or (iii) any other disadvantage.

2. CONTENT OF ADVERTISEMENTS AND NOTICES A notice board, advertisement or notices must: (a) indicate the details of the application which is subjected to public participation; and (b) state—

(i) that the application has been submitted to the competent authority in terms of these Regulations, as the case may be;

(ii) whether basic assessment or scoping procedures are being applied to the application, in the case of an application for environmental

authorisation; (iii) the nature and location of the activity to which the application relates; (iv) where further information on the application or activity can be obtained; and (iv) the manner in which and the person to whom representations in respect of the

application may be made. 3. PLACEMENT OF ADVERTISEMENTS AND NOTICES Where the proposed activity may have impacts that extend beyond the municipal area where it is located, a notice must be placed in at least one provincial newspaper or national newspaper, indicating that an application will be submitted to the competent authority in terms of these regulations, the nature and location of the activity, where further information on the proposed activity can be obtained and the manner in which representations in respect of the application can be made, unless a notice has been placed in any Gazette that is published specifically for the purpose of providing notice to the public of applications made in terms of the EIA regulations. Advertisements and notices must make provision for all alternatives.

An advert was placed in ‘Die Burger’ newspaper (see appendix G3) and an electronic notice was placed on the electronic notice board in the foyer of the CDC Business Centre (see Appendix G4)

4. DETERMINATION OF APPROPRIATE MEASURES The practitioner must ensure that the public participation is adequate and must determine whether a public meeting or any other additional measure is appropriate or not based on the particular nature of each case. Special attention should be given to the involvement of local community structures such as Ward Committees, ratepayers associations and traditional authorities where appropriate. Please note that public concerns that emerge at a later stage that should have been addressed may cause the competent authority to withdraw any authorisation it may have issued if it becomes apparent that the public participation process was inadequate. 5. COMMENTS AND RESPONSE REPORT The practitioner must record all comments and respond to each comment of the public before the application is submitted. The comments and responses must be captured in a comments and response report as prescribed in the EIA regulations and be attached to this application. The comments and response report must be attached under Appendix E.

The comments and response table is attached as Appendix E to this report.

6. AUTHORITY PARTICIPATION Authorities are key interested and affected parties in each application and no decision on any application will be made before the relevant local authority is provided with the opportunity to give input. The planning and the environmental sections of the local authority must be informed of the application at least 30 (thirty) calendar days before the submission of the application. List of authorities informed:

The Department of Economic Development, Environmental Affairs and Tourism (DEDEAT) The Department of Water Affairs (DWA)

The Department of Labour The South African Heritage Resource Agency (SAHRA) The Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality (NMBM)

List of authorities from whom comments have been received:

7. CONSULTATION WITH OTHER STAKEHOLDERS Note that, for linear activities, or where deviation from the public participation requirements may be appropriate, the person conducting the public participation process may deviate from the requirements of that subregulation to the extent and in the manner as may be agreed to by the competent authority. Any stakeholder that has a direct interest in the site or property, such as servitude holders and service providers, should be informed of the application at least 30 (thirty) calendar days before the submission of the application and be provided with the opportunity to comment.

Has any comment been received from stakeholders? NO

If “YES”, briefly describe the feedback below (also attach copies of any correspondence to and from the stakeholders to this application):

SECTION D: IMPACT ASSESSMENT The assessment of impacts must adhere to the minimum requirements in the EIA Regulations, 2010, and should take applicable official guidelines into account. The issues raised by interested and affected parties should also be addressed in the assessment of impacts. 1. ISSUES RAISED BY INTERESTED AND AFFECTED PARTIES List the main issues raised by interested and affected parties.

The issues raised by Interested and Affected Parties (IAPs) on the Draft BAR can be summarised as follows:

1. Power and water consumption requirements and power source; 2. Permits / licenses required (if any); 3. Waste products particular to this industry; 4. Identify design measures that will be incorporated into the design / operation of the plant to

improve efficiency and no contamination of water sources; 5. What technology will be used and how does rate environmentally to alternative technology; 6. Main operational risks associated with this type of industry; and 7. Cumulative noise levels.

Response from the practitioner to the issues raised by the interested and affected parties (A full response must be given in the Comments and Response Report that must be attached to this report):

The response from the Consultant/Client to the listed issues on the Draft BAR were as follows:

1. Electrical requirements

The plant will be connected to an 11 kV, 50 Hz substation by the NMBM and will require approximately 4250 kW for operation.

Water requirements

14 m³/h of potable water for make-up water.

No boiler or fuel burning appliance is required.

2. The application is for authorisation for the construction for storage and handling of a dangerous good (Oxygen). As the proposed plant is to be located in the Coega IDZ a search and rescue permit will be required for the clearing of the site. There is no evidence for the requirements of any other permits/licenses.

3. Very small quantities of waste will be generated during the operational phase and are readily accommodated within the existing waste management infrastructure within the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipal area. Potentially small amounts of hazardous substances (e.g. oil rags, oil cans, spent molecular sieve) will be disposed of at an appropriate classified waste site.

4. Items included in the design to improve efficiency of the plant and to prevent contamination of surface and ground water are provided in section 13 and section D-2 (Operational Impacts) of the report (for a detailed response see the comments and response table attached as Appendix E to this report).

5. The air separation plant will make use of the cryogenic air separation process with the use of best available technology. The Linde Group, of which Afrox is a member, is a world leading supplier of industrial, process and specialty gases. They have been in industry for 130 years during which time they have made major technological advances which have resulted in the increased efficiency of the process, as such no alternative technology is proposed.

6. A risk analysis (“HAZOP-Study”) will be performed for the entire operational system of the air separation plant, in which the proposed measures against hazards are evaluated. The plant is to be provided with safety-related monitoring and protection equipment as well as being fitted with automatic shut-offs, emergency stop switches and spill kits. As a result dangerous conditions such as excessive pressures, extreme temperatures and the accumulation of critical materials or leakages will be prevented or contained.

7. During the feasibility study of the new air separation plant a noise impact assessment was undertaken by the engineering office of IBAS. The results of the assessment show that the noise levels at the fence line of the site should not exceed 70 dB(A) at any point during the day or night; in accordance with SANS 10103:2008 (note 4) for industries legitimately operating in an industrial district during the entire 24 h day/night cycle, LR,eq,d = LR,eg,n = 70 dB(A) can be considered as typical and normal. As such the results of this report demonstrate that the sound technical requirements can be fulfilled with the planned design. As the anticipated levels are shown to be below 70 dB(A) at the fence line of the site the cumulative levels are not anticipated to exceed the 70 dB(A) threshold; unless the sound levels form neighbouring properties are in excess of the 70 dB(A) threshold at the border of their sites.

2. IMPACTS THAT MAY RESULT FROM THE PLANNING AND DESIGN, CONSTRUCTION, OPERATIONAL, DECOMMISSIONING AND CLOSURE PHASES AS WELL AS PROPOSED MANAGEMENT OF IDENTIFIED IMPACTS AND PROPOSED MITIGATION MEASURES List the potential direct, indirect and cumulative property/activity/design/technology/operational alternative related impacts (as appropriate) that are likely to occur as a result of the planning and design phase, construction phase, operational phase, decommissioning and closure phase, including impacts relating to the choice of site/activity/technology alternatives as well as the mitigation measures that may eliminate or reduce the potential impacts listed. DESIGN PHASE Alternative (preferred alternative)

No impacts are anticipated in terms of planning and design, as the proposed site is a partially developed property, zoned for industrial use, within an Industrial Development Zone.

Direct impacts None Indirect impacts None Cumulative impacts None

Mitigation measures that may eliminate or reduce the potential impacts listed above:

N/A

CONSTRUCTION PHASE Alternative (preferred alternative)

Direct impacts

1. Noise Emissions

Background Noise will result mostly from the increase in vehicular traffic on the roads to the site as well as from

the movement of vehicles and use of machinery (plant) for construction related activities. In all likelihood the construction noise will have little impact on the surrounding community or businesses, as it will most likely occur during the day when the ambient noise is louder and there are unstable atmospheric conditions. Based on the timelines provided, the construction noise will also be short lived as the construction phase of the project is expected to take less than two years to complete.

Assessment The significance of the impact resulting from construction activities is rated as VERY LOW (-ve) for the proposed development as the site is classified as industrial with very low baseline noise levels and it is not near any residential areas. With the implementation of mitigation measures the impact can be reduced to INSIGNIFICANT.

Extent Intensity Duration Consequence Probability Significance Status Confidence

Without

mitigation

Local

1

Low

1

Short-term

1

Very Low

3 Probable VERY LOW -ve Medium

With

mitigation

Local

1

Low

1

Short-term

1

Very Low

3 Possible INSIGNIFICANT -ve Medium

No-go

alternative N/A

Mitigation Measures

Maintenance of plant and machinery to be undertaken on a regular basis;

Speed limits should be implemented on site and adhered to off site;

2. Socio-economic impacts

Background The project will result in direct investment into the economy, consisting of capital expenditure, including engineering, procurement and construction; additionally approximately 200 - 300 job opportunities will be created during the construction phase. As the plant is to be located within the Coega IDZ, it is required to comply with the Zone Labour Agreement as provided by the CDC.

Assessment Given the size of the local economy and the relative scale of investment during the construction phase, the impact is expected to be of low intensity over the short-term period. The overall impact is thus considered to be of VERY LOW (+ve) significance with the implementation of proposed optimisation measures.

Not implementing the proposed development would mean that the potential for induced stimulus on regional production, and associated secondary economic development would not occur. The no-go alternative associated with this impact is expected to be of a VERY LOW (-ve) significance.


Without

mitigation

Local

1

Low

1

Short-term

1

Very Low

3 Possible INSIGNIFICANT +ve High

With

mitigation

Local

1

Low

1

Short-term

1

Very Low

3 Probable VERY LOW +ve High

No-go

alternative

Local

1

Low

1

Short-term

1

Very Low

3 Probable VERY LOW -ve High

Mitigation Measures

Local labour is to be employed as far as it is possible to do so;

Source as many goods and services from the local and regional economy as feasible; and

The contracted company is to provide ancillary training to workers on maximising the use of income and training to further future economic prospects.

3. Removal of Indigenous Vegetation

Background According to Mucina and Rutherford, (2006), the site falls within the Albany Thicket Biome with the vegetation type of the area consisting of Coega Bontveld which is also known as Grass Ridge Bontveld (Vlok & Euston-Brown, 2002). The distribution of this vegetation type is restricted to shallow stony soils strongly influenced by an underlying calcareous substrate. The Coega Bontveld has many Species of Special Concern (SSC), often in the form of small succulents and geophytes. According to the FSR, of the proposed Kalagadi Manganese Smelter in Coega, a previous study conducted on this vegetation type within the Coega IDZ by Dold (2002) reported 140 species, 19 of which are protected in terms of the National Forest Act and the Provincial Nature Conservation Ordinance (PNCO). He also found one endangered plant and 10 species endemic to the Albany Centre of Endemism. In his report, Dold recommended that 13 species would need to be relocated from the Bontveld community (Coastal & Environmental Services, 2008). A list of SSC is provided in the EMPr.

Assessment Clearing of the vegetation will occur but before this takes place a search and rescue process is to be undertaken by a specialist to identify and remove species of special concern (SSC) (see list in EMPr). As such the impact of the clearing of vegetation is considered a LOW (-ve) which can be reduced to VERY LOW (-ve) with the implementation of mitigation measures.


Without

mitigation

Local

1

Low

1

Long-term

3

Low

5 Probable LOW -ve High

With

mitigation

Local

1

Low

1

Long-term

3

Low

5 Possible VERY LOW -ve High

No-go

alternative N/A

Mitigation Measures

Before clearing takes place a search and rescue process is to be undertaken by a specialist to identify and remove SSC (as identified by the CDC – see list in EMPr). The plants rescued off the site are to be held in the CDC's nursery and reused in landscaping of the same site. In the case that all of the rescued plants cannot be used in the landscaping of the Afrox site, then the CDC will use these plants to rehabilitate identified sites within the IDZ (this will only be confirmed on completion of the final designs).

4. Loss of Indigenous Fauna

Background There is a general lack of pristine terrestrial habitats in the Coega region. This means that some components of the terrestrial fauna have been severely impacted by previous human activity, particularly the loss of vegetation, invasion of alien vegetation, local extinction of large mammals, and varied industrial developments. However, despite the construction and development activity within the IDZ the following fauna have been observed in area, these are namely; kudu, duiker, steenbok, grysbok, tortoises, rabbits, jackal, mongooses, herons and numerous raptor species.

Assessment Loss of fauna will take place owing to the loss of the habitat that will result due to the establishment of the plant. Although the intensity is considered to be low the impact will be long-

term as the plant is not anticipated to be decommissioned in the near future. During the clearing process care is to be taken so as not to harm fauna, including reptiles, should it be required a specialist is to be called in to assist in the relocation. As such the impact is considered a VERY LOW (-ve) impact, with or without the implementation of mitigation measures.


Without

mitigation

Local

1

Low

1

Long-term

3

Low

5 Definite VERY LOW -ve High

With

mitigation

Local

1

Low

1

Long-term

3

Low


No-go

alternative N/A

Mitigation Measures

Clearing is to take place from one side of the property to the other, allowing the wildlife a chance to relocate, and not get trapped in ‘islands’ of vegetation.

5. Impact on Heritage (Archaeology and Palaeontology)

Background According to the Archaeological Impact Assessment of the greater Coega IDZ, undertaken by Dr Johan Binneman in 2010, zone 3 has a well-developed infrastructure and at the time had several large buildings already built while others were under construction. During the assessment the occasional quartzite Middle Stone Age stone tools similar to those found in other zones of the IDZ were found where pebble/cobble gravels were exposed, however these were not recorded. The assessment identified that although the area/zones investigated were occupied extensively in the past, the area is relatively poor in large and important ecological sites. It was noted that materials may be covered by soil and vegetation and may only be exposed when development takes place.

Assessment Based on the above there is a chance that archaeological remains/sites may be uncovered during the clearing of the site. The impact is considered to be VERY LOW (-ve), however with the implementation of mitigation measures the impact can be changed to a VERY LOW (+ve).


Without

mitigation

Local

1

Low

1

Long-term

3

Low

5 Improbable VERY LOW -ve High

With

mitigation

Local

1

Low

1

Long-term

3

Low

5 Improbable VERY LOW +ve High

No-go

alternative N/A

Mitigation Measures

Construction managers/foremen must be informed before construction starts on the possible types of heritage sites and cultural material they may encounter and the procedures to follow should they find sites;

If concentrations of archaeological heritage material, human remains or fossils are uncovered during construction, all work must cease immediately and be reported to the Albany Museum (046 622 2312) and/or the South African Heritage Resources Agency (SAHRA) (021 642 4502) so that systematic and professional investigation/ excavation can be undertaken; and

6. Dust emissions

Background During the construction phase areas of vegetation and land will be stripped in preparation for the construction process. During this phase areas will be left bare and the movement of large machinery will result in the creation of dust.

Assessment The intensity of the impact is rated as medium, primarily due to dust normally settling up to a distance of 2 km from the source; however the duration is short-term. As a result, the significance rating for the air impact on the receptors associated with the facility is VERY LOW (-ve), which can be reduced to INSIGNIFICANT with the implementation of mitigation measures.


Without

mitigation

Local

1

Medium

2

Short-term

1

Very Low


With

mitigation

Local

1

Low

1

Short-term

1

Very Low

3 Possible INSIGNIFICANT -ve High

No-go

alternative N/A

Mitigation Measures

Dust suppression techniques, such as wetting or covering potential dust sources should be implemented to minimise the impact of dust, when necessary;

Construction vehicles must adhere to speed limits; and

Prompt rehabilitation of cleared areas should take place to reduce exposure.

7. Waste Management

Background The accumulation of solid domestic waste at any site can result in unpleasant odours and the attraction of vermin (i.e. flies, rats etc.). Dispersal of these solid wastes, particularly non-biodegradable items such as plastic and polystyrene, either by animals or wind can also cause harm to animals if ingested or if they become entangled.

Assessment A VERY LOW (-ve) impact is expected due to incorrect disposal of construction waste which could lead to other visual impacts and loss of natural habitat. However, the probability of this impact occurring is low if standard management practices are followed. Therefore, with mitigation the impact is reduced to INSIGNIFICANT.


Without

mitigation

Local

1

Low

1

Short-term

1

Very Low


With

mitigation

Local

1

Low

1

Short-term

1

Very Low


No-go

alternative N/A

Mitigation Measures

Sufficient weather and scavenger- proof bins (with lids, to prevent the escape of litter) shall be provided, and be easily accessible at all points were wastes are generated;

The site shall be kept clean and free of litter, and no litter from the site shall be allowed to

disperse to surrounding areas;

All personnel shall be instructed to dispose of all waste in the proper manner;

The Contractor shall identify and separate materials that can be reused or recycled to minimise waste e.g. metals, packaging and plastics, and provide separate marked bins for these items;

All construction materials (e.g. bags of cement) must be suitably stored and protected, so that they do not become damaged and unusable;

The Contractor shall be responsible for the regular disposal (at suitable and licensed municipal waste disposal facilities) of all waste generated as a result of the construction. Waste disposal slips shall be kept for auditing purposes;

No dumping within the surrounding area shall be permitted, and no waste may be buried or burned. Where potentially hazardous substances are to be disposed of, a safe disposal slip shall be kept on record as proof of final disposal; and

General waste is to be collected either by the Local Municipality or via a Municipal approved waste transporting contractor. The frequency of collections will be such that waste containment receptacles do not unduly accumulate or overflow.

8. Traffic Impacts

Background During the construction phase materials and equipment will need to be transported to site by means of road transportation, resulting in more traffic utilising the CDC road network. Additionally certain parts of the plant (e.g. the cold box and storage tanks) will be brought in from the harbour already assembled; which could result in some abnormal loads being transported from the harbour to the site during the construction phase – this will only be confirmed on final design of the structures.

Assessment Due to the relatively small size of the development as well as the short construction time (less than one year) the intensity of the impact is considered low. It was also taken into consideration that the traffic from / to the Afrox site will be concentrated through the Neptune Road / Cable Road intersection; however since access to the area can also be gained from the R102, it is not anticipated that the construction traffic will result in congestion of traffic in the area. It is also anticipated that the construction traffic generated will not exceed the vehicle carrying capacity of any of the affected roads in the area.

Based on the above the significance of this negative impact on the congestion at the intersections, as well wear and tear of the infrastructure, is rated as INSIGNIFICANT, with no mitigation measures proposed.


Without

mitigation

Local

1

Low

1

Short-term

1

Very Low


With

mitigation N/A

No-go

alternative N/A

Indirect impacts None.

Cumulative impacts None.

No-Go Alternative

Direct impacts See impact 2 above - Socio-economic impacts Indirect impacts None. Cumulative impacts None.


See Impacts above

OPERATIONAL PHASE Alternative (preferred alternative)

Direct impacts

1. Safety Impacts (Risk of accidents in relation to the storage of dangerous goods)

Background The entire plant site will be fenced; meaning any lawful access to the plant will only be gained by authorisation with adherence to safety protocol. The ASU, storage facilities and associated machinery are to be manufactured according to the relevant safety standards. The plant is provided with safety-related monitoring and protection equipment. As a result dangerous conditions such as excessive pressures, too high or too low temperatures, and accumulation of critical materials or leakages can be prevented. Additionally the products are stored in double shelled storage tanks so that in the case of any external incidents, if the external shell is punctured the internal shell will remain intact.

There are management measures that will be implemented that are inherent in all of the companies associated ASU’s, these include (but are not limited to):

1. A risk analysis (“HAZOP-Study”) is to be undertaken for the entire system, in which the proposed measures against hazards are evaluated;

2. The plant is to be equipped with lights, and escapes routes from the systems are to be clearly marked;

3. Regular maintenance of the machines is to be carried out.

The above form part of the design criteria for the plant and as such reduces the risk associated with the plant.

Assessment With consideration of the taken measures the significance is rated as a VERY LOW (-ve), no additional mitigation measures are proposed.


Without

mitigation

Local

1

High

3

Short-Term

1

Low


With

mitigation N/A

No-go

alternative N/A

2. Noise

Background The noise impact assessment undertaken for the proposed plant shows that that the anticipated noise levels at the boundaries of the property will not exceed the stipulated 70 dB(A). The noise created from the machinery which operates 24 hours a day will result in an increase in the ambient noise levels in the immediate vicinity; however as these are not anticipated to exceed the 70 dB(A) threshold.

Assessment The plant design has already taken into consideration the positioning of noise generating equipment to reduce the noise levels at the boundaries and Afrox have also implemented soundproofing of the structures housing noise generating equipment, as such the impact is rated as a LOW (-ve), with no additional mitigation measures proposed.


Without

mitigation

Local

1

Low

1

Long-Term

3

Low

5 Probable LOW -ve Medium

With

mitigation N/A

No-go

alternative N/A

3. Socio-economic impacts

Background It is anticipated that the plant will result in approximately 20 job opportunities during the operation phase (8 persons for transport-works and an additional 12 persons for plant operation).

Assessment Although the intensity of the impact is low due to the small number of jobs required for the operation of the plant, the period of the impact (25 to 30 years) results in the impact to be rated as a LOW (+ve).


Without

mitigation

Local

1

Low

1

Long-Term

3

Low

5 Probable LOW +ve Medium

With

mitigation N/A

No-go

alternative

Local

1

Low

1

Long-Term

3

Low


4. Contamination of surface water and ground water

Background There is a potential for oil leaks from the compressors, hydraulic systems and transformers as well as spills during maintenance. There is also the risk of diesel spills when filling up trucks at the filling point as well as leaks from the storage tanks (above and below ground). However; the area where the filling of trucks is to take place will be constructed out of an impermeable concrete slab, and the above ground storage tanks, as well as equipment that could potentially result in spills or leaks, are to be positioned within defined areas so as to contain any leaks or spills that may occur. Additionally the underground diesel storage tank is to be manufactured of non-corrosive glass fibre material, eliminating the chance of leaks.

Assessment The significance of this impact is rated as a VERY LOW (-ve) which can be reduced to INSIGNIFICANT with the implementation of mitigation measures.


Without

mitigation

Local

1

Low

1

Short-Term

1

Very Low

3 Probable VERY LOW -ve Medium

With

mitigation

Local

1

Low

1

Short-term

1

Very Low

3 Possible INSIGNIFICANT -ve Medium

No-go

alternative N/A

Mitigation Measures 1. Use the minimum quantity of treatment chemicals necessary to achieve adequate system

protection;

2. Minimise leaks through preventative maintenance.

5. Traffic Impacts

Background The plant is designed for the production of and distribution of products and not as an administrative or sales base, therefore the only traffic that will be generated by the plant are the employees, the distribution trucks and occasional service providers when required. The operation of the plant requires approximately 20 employees throughout a 24 hour period, some of which are shift workers. It is anticipated that the plant will require approximately 7 trucks per day, spread throughout the 24 hour period, to fill up with products for distribution purposes. In a situation where trucks have to wait to be filled, the plant layout has made accommodation for the on-site parking of up to 6 trucks (excluding those being refilled or serviced), thereby eliminating the chance of impeding the flow of traffic on the road outside the plant.

The ASP is located in Zone 3 of the IDZ, which is designated for light industrial development, as such it is anticipated that each of the developments within the Zone will not have an exorbitant amount of trucks making deliveries or collections. As it is an IDZ it is anticipated that the design of the road infrastructure as well as the road network was done in accordance with required specifications to handle the anticipated carrying capacity of the developed area on completion of the IDZ. The addition of 7 trucks per 24 hours is not considered a large amount in terms of a light industry development and as such should not interfere with the operations of other developments in the Zone, and the other developments should not interfere with the operations of the Afrox plant as the plant can be reached from two directions, minimising the chance of congestion.

Assessment Based on the above the significance of this negative impact on the congestion at the intersections, as well as wear and tear of the infrastructure, is rated as VERY LOW (-ve) due to the long term operation of the plant, as such no mitigation measures are proposed.


Without

mitigation

Local

1

Low

1

Long-term

3

Low

5 Possible VERY LOW -ve High

With

mitigation N/A

No-go

alternative N/A

Indirect impacts None Cumulative impacts

6. Safety Impacts as a result of surrounding developments

Background The Afrox site is situated adjacent to three other developments, of which the one stores Liquid Oxygen. There are no inherent dangers of explosions from any of the existing adjacent properties. However, if an explosion where to take place safety measures have been planned for to be put in place on the Afrox site, these include (but are not limited to); double shell storage tanks, the layout of the plant (i.e. being situated as far from the other developments as possible) and safety shutoff valves.

Assessment With consideration of the safety measures that are to be incorporated into the plant, the significance is rated as a VERY LOW (-ve).


Without

mitigation

Local

1

High

3

Short-Term

1

Low


With

mitigation N/A

No-go

alternative N/A

7. Noise

Background The noise created from the machinery which operates 24 hours a day will result in an increase in the ambient noise levels; as the anticipated levels are shown to be below 70 dB(A) at the fenceline of the site the cumulative levels are not anticipated to exceed the 70 dB(A) threshold; unless the sound levels form neighbouring properties are in excess of the 70 dB(A) requirements at the border of their sites.

Assessment The plant design has already taken into consideration the positioning of the plant on the site so as to reduce the noise levels at the boundaries of the site and thereby reducing the combined sound levels form neighbouring properties. As such the impact is rated as a LOW (-ve), with no additional mitigation measures proposed.


Without

mitigation

Local

1

Low

1

Long-Term

3

Low


With

mitigation N/A

No-go

alternative N/A

No-Go Alternative

Direct impacts See impact 3 – Socio-economic impact Indirect impacts None. Cumulative impacts None.


Mitigation measures have been provided with the impacts listed above.

DECOMMISSIONING AND CLOSURE PHASE Alternative (preferred alternative)

No decommissioning is anticipated in the foreseeable future as the plant has an anticipated lifespan of 20 to 25 years; after which it will be reassessed as to whether to continue, expand the facility or halt

production. Direct impacts None. Indirect impacts None. Cumulative impacts None.

No-Go Alternative

Direct impacts None. Indirect impacts None. Cumulative impacts None.


None.

3. ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENT Taking the assessment of potential impacts into account, please provide an environmental impact statement that summarises the impact that the proposed activity and its alternatives may have on the environment after the management and mitigation of impacts have been taken into account, with specific reference to types of impact, duration of impacts, likelihood of potential impacts actually occurring and the significance of impacts.

Impact Significance Rating Summary Table (for the preferred alternative)

A summary table of all potential impacts for the construction and operational phases is included below. The significance of each impact without and with the implementation of mitigation measures is stated.

Direct Impacts

Impact


Without Mitigation

With Mitigation

Without Mitigation

With Mitigation

Safety as a result of the proposed activity

- - VERY LOW

(-ve) -

Noise Emissions VERY LOW

(-ve) INSIGNIFICANT

LOW

(-ve) -

Socio-Economic INSIGNIFICANT VERY LOW

(+ve)

LOW

(+ve) -

Removal of Indigenous Vegetation

LOW

(-ve)

VERY LOW

(-ve) - -

Loss of Indigenous Fauna VERY LOW

(-ve)

VERY LOW

(-ve) - -

Heritage Impacts VERY LOW

(-ve)

VERY LOW

(+ve) - -

Dust Emissions VERY LOW


Waste Management VERY LOW


Traffic Impacts INSIGNIFICANT - VERY LOW

(-ve) -

Contamination of Surface and Ground Water

- - VERY LOW

(-ve) INSIGNIFICANT

Cumulative Impacts

Impact


Without Mitigation

With Mitigation

Without Mitigation

With Mitigation

Safety Impacts from surrounding developments

- - VERY LOW

(-ve) -

Noise Emissions - - LOW

(-ve) -

No-go alternative

Impact


Without Mitigation

With Mitigation

Without Mitigation

With Mitigation

Socio-Economic VERY LOW

(-ve) -

LOW

(-ve) -

The proposed activity is characterised by the separation of ambient air into the components Oxygen, Nitrogen and Argon and the storage of these products. As per regulations Oxygen is listed as a

dangerous good and due to the proposed storage capacity of Oxygen on the site a Basic Assessment is required.

It is evident from the above that the potential environmental and social impacts from the facility are of low significance and should not influence a decision to approve the application.

SECTION E. RECOMMENDATIONS OF PRACTITIONER

Is the information contained in this report and the documentation attached hereto sufficient to make a decision in respect of the activity applied for (in the view of the environmental assessment practitioner)?

YES

Is an EMPr attached? YES

The EMPr must be attached as Appendix F. If “NO”, indicate the aspects that should be assessed further as part of a Scoping and EIA process before a decision can be made (list the aspects that require further assessment):

N/A

If “YES”, please list any recommended conditions, including mitigation measures that should be considered for inclusion in any authorisation that may be granted by the competent authority in respect of the application:

Due to the low significance of all of the impacts identified, it is the Practitioner’s view that the application should be approved. Mitigation measures proposed in this report, and captured in the EMPr, are considered optional and do not need to be included as conditions of authorisation.

SECTION F: APPENDICES The following appendixes must be attached as appropriate: Appendix A: Site plan(s) Appendix B: Photographs Appendix C: Facility illustration(s) Appendix D: Specialist reports Appendix E: Comments and responses report Appendix F: Environmental Management Programme (EMPr) Appendix G: Other information

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Proposed Air Separation Plant, Coega IDZ, Port Elizabeth ... · Port Elizabeth, 6001 P O Box 21842...

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