Al-Dhebaee WWTP Tirkit District, Salah Al-Din Governorate · ESA for Al-Dhebaee WWTP Tirkit...

Al-Dhebaee WWTP Tirkit District, Salah Al-Din

Governorate

Environmental and Social Assessment Report

September 2019

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ESA for Al-Dhebaee WWTP Tirkit District, Salah Al-Din Governorate Environmental and Social Assessment Report

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01/09/2019

Table of Contents

1. INTRODUCTION ............................................................................................... 1

1.1 Background ............................................................................................... 1

1.2 Objectives of ESA ...................................................................................... 1

2. PROJECT DESCRIPTION ................................................................................ 2

2.2 Wastewater Treatment Plant Process ........................................................ 4

2.2.1 WWTP Units .......................................................................................... 4

2.2.2 Design Parameters ................................................................................ 6

2.2.3 Process Description ............................................................................... 6

2.2.4 Rehabilitation Activities ......................................................................... 10

3. BASELINE CONDITIONS ................................................................................ 15

3.1 Physical Environment ............................................................................... 15

3.1.1 Climate ................................................................................................. 15

3.1.2 Topography .......................................................................................... 17

3.1.3 Surface and Groundwater Resources ................................................... 17

3.2 Biological Environment ............................................................................. 17

3.2.1 Ecological Regions (Climate) ................................................................ 17

3.2.2 Flora 19

3.2.3 Fauna 19

3.2.4 Protection Status and Current Ecological Issues ................................... 20

3.3 Socioeconomic Environment..................................................................... 20

3.3.1 Demographics....................................................................................... 20

3.3.2 Economy and Living Standards............................................................. 20

3.3.3 Agricultural Activities ............................................................................. 21

3.3.4 Infrastructure ........................................................................................ 21

3.3.5 Archeological Sites ............................................................................... 21

4. LEGAL AND INSTITUTIONAL FRAMEWORK ............................................... 22

4.1 Applicable and Relevant Regulations and Standards ................................ 22

4.1.1 Law No. 37 of 2008: The Ministry of Environment ................................. 22

4.1.2 Law No. 27 of 2009: Protection and Improvement of Environment ........ 22

4.1.3 Law No. 55 of 2002: The Law of Antiquities and Heritage ..................... 22

4.1.4 Law No. 41 of 2015: Noise Protection and Control ................................ 23

4.1.5 Law No. 27 of 1999: Establishment of the General Authority for Water and Sewage .................................................................................................... 23

4.1.6 Labor Law of 2015 ............................................................................... 24

4.1.7 Preservation of Water Resources Regulation No. 2 of 2001 ................. 24

4.1.8 Protection of Ambient Air Quality Regulation No. 4 of 2012 ................... 24

4.1.9 MOE Instructions No. 3 for 2011 for Project Categorization .................. 24

4.1.10 Instructions No. 3/1985 concerning Occupational Safety ................... 24

4.2 World Bank Policies, Procedures and Guidelines ..................................... 25

4.2.1 OP/BP 4.01 Environmental Assessment ............................................... 25

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4.2.2 Environmental, Health, and Safety Guidelines ..................................... 25

5. IMPACT EVALUATION ................................................................................... 26

5.1 Impacts during Construction ..................................................................... 27

5.1.1 Water and Soil Quality .......................................................................... 27

5.1.2 Air Quality ............................................................................................. 29

5.1.3 Noise 29

5.1.4 Use of Natural Resources ..................................................................... 30

5.1.5 Land Resources .................................................................................... 30

5.1.6 Flora and Fauna ................................................................................... 30

5.1.7 Visual Intrusion ..................................................................................... 31

5.1.8 Socioeconomic Activities ...................................................................... 31

5.1.9 Traffic 31

5.1.10 Archeological Sites............................................................................ 31

5.1.11 Health and Safety ............................................................................. 31

5.2 Impacts during Operation .......................................................................... 32


5.2.2 Air Quality ............................................................................................. 34

5.2.3 Noise 34


5.2.5 Land Resources .................................................................................... 35

5.2.6 Biological Environment ......................................................................... 35

5.2.7 Visual intrusion ..................................................................................... 35

5.2.8 Socioeconomic Environment ................................................................. 35

5.2.9 Public Health and Safety ....................................................................... 35

5.2.10 Cultural Heritage ............................................................................... 36

6. ALTERNATIVES .............................................................................................. 39

6.1 Site Alternative ......................................................................................... 39

6.2 Process Alternative ................................................................................... 39

6.3 Reuse of the Treated Wastewater ............................................................. 39

6.4 No Action Alternative ................................................................................ 40

7. ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN .................................................... 41

7.1 Mitigation Measures during Construction .................................................. 41

7.1.1 Soils and Water Quality ........................................................................ 41

7.1.2 Air Quality ............................................................................................. 41

7.1.3 Noise 42


7.1.5 Land Resources .................................................................................... 42

7.1.6 Biological Environment ......................................................................... 43


7.1.8 Socioeconomic ..................................................................................... 43


7.2 Mitigation Measures during Operation....................................................... 45


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7.2.2 Air Quality ............................................................................................. 46

7.2.3 Noise 46


7.2.5 Biological Environment and Land Resources ........................................ 46


7.2.7 Socioeconomic Environment ................................................................. 47


7.2.9 Cultural Heritage ................................................................................... 48

7.3 Environmental Mitigation Plan ................................................................... 48

7.4 Monitoring Plan ......................................................................................... 53

7.4.1 Monitoring Plan Implementation ............................................................ 53

7.4.2 Documentation and Reporting .............................................................. 53

7.4.3 Guidelines for Health and Safety Plan during Construction .................. 57

7.4.4 Guidelines for Health and Safety Plan during Operation ....................... 57

7.4.5 Guidelines for Sludge Management during Operation .......................... 58

7.4.6 Emergency Response Plan ................................................................... 59

7.5 Institutional Setup and Capacity Building .................................................. 60

7.5.1 Training................................................................................................. 60

7.6 Grievance Redress Mechanism ................................................................ 61

8. PUBLIC CONSULTATION ............................................................................... 63

9. SUMMARY AND CONCLUSIONS ................................................................... 65

10. REFERENCES ............................................................................................. 66

ANNEX 1: LIST OF ATTENDEES AND SAMPLE QUESTIONNAIRE MATRIX

ANNEX 2: GRIEVANCE FORM


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LIST OF TABLES

Table 2-1: Influent and Effluent Characteristics ......................................................... 6

Table 2-2 Proposed Rehabilitation Activities ............................................................ 11

Table 3-1: Services in Tikrit. Source: (MOCHMPW, 2017) ....................................... 21

Table 4-1: Noise Limits for Different Working Zones ................................................ 23

Table 4-2: Effluent Discharge Parameters ............................................................... 23

Table 5-1: Impact Criteria for Impact Evaluation ...................................................... 26

Table 5-2: Noise Levels Emitted from Construction Machinery and Equipment ....... 29

Table 5-3: Impact Evaluation During construction .................................................... 37

Table 5-4: Impact Evaluation during Operation ........................................................ 38

Table 7-1: Environmental Mitigation Plan during Construction and Rehabilitation

Phase .............................................................................................................. 49

Table 7-2: Environmental Mitigation Plan during Operation Phase .......................... 51

Table 7-3: Environmental Monitoring Plan for the Construction Phase .................... 55

Table 7-4: Environmental Monitoring Plan for the Operation Phase ......................... 56


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LIST OF FIGUERS

Figure 2-1: Current Situation of the WWTP ............................................................... 2

Figure 2-2: Satellite Image of the Current WWTP ...................................................... 3

Figure 2-3: WWTP Location with respect to the City .................................................. 4

Figure 2-4: Layout map showing the location of the wastewater discharge outfall pipe

.......................................................................................................................... 9

Figure 2-5: Layout of the WWTP after Rehabilitation ................................................ 14

Figure 3-1: Max, Min and Average Annuals Temperature of Tikrit City. Source: World

Weather Online ............................................................................................... 15

Figure 3-2: Max, Min and Average Annuals Wind Speed of Tikrit City. Source: World

Weather Online ............................................................................................... 16

Figure 3-3: Average Rainfall Amount of Tikrit City. Source: World Weather Online . 16

Figure 7-1: Flowchart for Processing Grievances .................................................... 62

Figure 8-1: Photos Taken during the Public Consultation ........................................ 64


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LIST OF ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS

BOD Biochemical Oxygen Demand

CH4 Methane

Cl2 Chlorine

CO2 Carbon Dioxide

COD Chemical Oxygen Demand

EHS Environment, Health and Safety

GHG Greenhouse Gases

H2S Hydrogen Sulfide

MOCHMPW Ministry of Construction, Housing, Municipalities and

Public Works

MOE Ministry of Environment

MOI Ministry of Interior

N2O Nitrous Oxide

NH3 Ammonia

PPE Personal Protective Equipment

RAS Return Activated Sludge

TSS Total Suspended Solids

UXO Unexploded ordnance

WAS Waste Activated Sludge

WB World Bank

WWTP Wastewater Treatment Plant


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1.1 BACKGROUND

1.2 OBJECTIVES OF ESA

The uncontrolled discharge of raw wastewater into the irrigation and drainage system

and on land has severely impacted the environmental, health, social and economic

conditions of Tikrit. From environmental and health aspects, the accumulation and

improper discharge of wastewater resulted in insect proliferation, soil contamination

and pollution of water bodies including the Tigris River (Al-Rawi, 2005, Al

Jebouri&Edham, 2012).

The main objective of a wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) is to protect the

environment from pollution as raw wastewater contains pathogens and high levels of

pollutants (such as total nitrogen, total phosphorus, BOD, fecal and total coliforms),

which, if not management and treated properly, can lead to water and soil quality

degradation as well as serious public health risks and diseases.

In addition to its public health and environmental benefits, the installation of wastewater

collection and treatment infrastructure is anticipated to provide economic benefits,

making Tikrit city more attractive for future residential and commercial development.

The main objectives of this ESA are to:

Identify relevant laws, polices and guidelines relevant to the proposed project;

Describe baseline environmental and socioeconomic conditions within the study area;

Identify the significant environmental and social impacts associated with the rehabilitation of the wastewater treatment plant;

Analyze alternatives to the proposed project;

Propose mitigation / enhancement measures for the identified impacts whenever possible;

Facilitate informed decision making, including setting the environmental terms and conditions for implementing the proposed project;

Develop a plan to monitor the identified impacts and their associated mitigation measures.

1. INTRODUCTION


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The wastewater treatment plant under the current assessment was designed and

constructed in the 1980s to serve Tikrit city. Its average wastewater influent flow of the

WWTP was estimated at 20,000 m3/day to serve a population of 80,000 persons. The

treatment plant stopped operation after ISIS attacks in Tikrit. Several units of the

treatment plant were blown up and destroyed. The following Figure 2-1 shows the

current situation of the WWTP. Moreover a satellite image of the current WWTP is

shown in Figure 2-2.

Figure 2-1: Current Situation of the WWTP

2. PROJECT DESCRIPTION


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Figure 2-2: Satellite Image of the Current WWTP

2.1 Project Location

Al-Dhebaee WWTP is located in the rural area at the west side of the city Figure 2-3.

The distance between the treatment plant and Tikrit south airport is about 3.0 km. It is

over 4.5 km away from the nearest residential area. This location is not on the main

wind direction and the area is allocated and approved by the local administration and

the Ministry. The area of site is approximately 62,500 m2 with all its related units and

service roads.


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2.2 WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT PROCESS

Figure 2-3: WWTP Location with respect to the City

2.2.1 WWTP Units

The facilities and mechanical equipment used according to the designed process in

the plant are summarized below:

Receiving chamber:

- Penstocks

- Manually Cleaned Coarse Screens

- Screenings Container

Grit and Grease Removal Tank:

- Penstocks

- Grit and Grease Scraper Bridge (with grit pumps)

- Grit Classifier

- Grease Container

- Grit Container

- Air Blowers

- Air Pipes Valves and Fittings

- Grit Pipes Valves and Fittings

- Parshall Flume

Aeration Tanks (Nitrification)

- Surface aerators


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- Penstocks and DO meters

RAS/WAS Pump Station

- Stop-Logs

- RAS +WAS screw pumps

- Pipes, Fittings and Valves for RAS line

- Pipes Fittings and Valves for WAS line

Sedimentation Tanks

- Rotating Scraper Bridge

- V-notch type overflow weirs

- Peripheral Scum Baffle and Scum Box

- Inlet Pipes and Fittings

- Sludge and Scum Outlet Pipes and Fittings

- Telescopic Valves

Main Air Blowers Building

- Aeration Tank Blowers

- Air Pipes, Manifolds, Fittings and Valves

- Overhead Crane

Chlorine Building

- Chlorinator Equipment

- Gas manifold pipes

- Copper piping

- PVC Piping

- Automatic Change-Over device

- Vacuum Regulator

- Automatic Chlorinators

- Ejectors

- Leak Detector and Alarm

- Liquid Chlorine Trap

- Chlorine Gas Filter

Chlorine Emergency Unit

- Emergency shower and eye wash

- Overhead Sprinkler System

- Exhaust Fans

- Gas Masks

- Compressed air respirator

- Chlorine Drums (1 ton Tanks)

- Roller Supports for Chlorine Drums

- Overhead Crane

- Drum weighing scale mounted on crane

Sludge Drying Beds

- Pipes, valves and fittings


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2.2.2 Design Parameters

Basic design parameters considered in the WWTP process are shown in the table

below Table 2-1. The table presents the final concentrations of some parameters that

will be achieved after the treatment process.

Table 2-1: Influent and Effluent Characteristics

Parameter Influent (mg/l) Effluent Limit (mg/l)

Total Suspended Solid (TSS) 360 ˂30

Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD5) 300 ˂20

Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) - ˂100

NO2-N - nil

2.2.3 Process Description

Wastewater Reception

Wastewater reaches the plant via two force main sewers 500 mm diameter each.

There is a by-pass chamber used to overflow in emergency cases. The fine screens

were not considered in the original design of the plant as the designer considered the

available screens in the town pump stations which pumped the wastewater to the

WWTP as adequate. However, in the rehabilitated treatment plant, fine screen with

small openings (6mm) will be installed upstream the extended aeration tanks to

enhance the biological activity of microorganisms.

Aerated Grit & Grease Removal

In the Aerated Grit & Grease Removal Basins, the grit is settled at the bottom of the

grit channel while the grease is floated on the surface of the grease channel by the aid

of aeration across the length of the basin. The travelling bridge skims the grease off

the surface of the grease channel and dumps it to the grease sump located at the end

of the channel. Similarly, air lift grit pump mounted at the travelling bridge pump grits

to a cyclone for grit classification. Dewatered grit is then collected in containers to be

disposed of to a sanitary landfill while the degraded water is sent to biological treatment

units by gravity.

Aeration Tank

Wastewater free of coarse materials, grit and grease flows into two mixing chambers,

where the screened wastewater is mixed with the return activated sludge (RAS). The

mixture (WW+RAS) from each mixing chamber passes to a distribution chamber in

which the flow divides into three channels, each feeding into aeration tank by

overflowing the four weir gates distributed along the tank length.


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Activated sludge process with 15-hour retention time is employed for the biological

treatment of wastewater. By well acclimatized microorganisms in this basin, a high

percentage of the pollution load is converted mainly to water and CO2 – classical

aerobic biological degradation. Necessary oxygen is transferred to the mixed liquor by

the air supplied by the surface aerators mounted on concrete floors supported by

concrete columns. Each aeration tank is equipped with four aerators each driven by a

30hp motor. Aeration rate is controlled by continuous monitoring of dissolved oxygen

and redox potential in the basins and adjusting the effluent weir to control the depth of

submergence of the aerators which is directly related to their aeration capacity.

Mixed liquor from the aeration tanks gravity flows to the second distribution chamber

equipped with sluice gates. This structure facilitates the even distribution of mixed

liquor to the clarifiers.

Sedimentation Tank

Each train process includes two clarifiers with circular horizontal flow. The diameter of

each tank is 22m. The mixed liquor suspended solids reach the tank at its central well

among a distribution chamber provided with gates to control the flow. The diameter of

incoming sewer is 600mm. The clarified water leaves the overflowing V-notch weirs

located along the tank perimeter, while the accumulated sludge in the bottom inverted

cone moves to the RAS & Waste Activated Sludge (WAS) pump station; the flow of

drawn sludge is controlled by a manually operated telescope valve. The tank is

provided with a rotating bridge supported at the center of the tank and moved on rubber

tires along the top of the tank wall. Each tank is provided with a complete system to

remove accumulated sludge and scum

Sludge Drying Beds

The settled sludge is sent to the combined sludge pump station over the telescopic

valves of the clarifiers. From this pump station, WAS is carried by a pipe to the drying

beds while the RAS is carried by another pipe to mixing chambers upstream the

aeration tanks. The filtrates of the drying beds and washout effluents are sent back by

gravity to a small washout pump station installed adjacent to the receiving chamber.

The two submersible pumps will be responsible for lifting the collected wastewater to

the receiving chamber.

Chlorination

The effluent of Final Clarifiers reaches the Chlorine Contact Tank by gravity, at the

inlet of which gas chlorine is injected into the wastewater for disinfection. Gas chlorine

(the disinfectant chemical) is injected by an automatic chlorinator, which adjusts the

required amount of chlorine according to the current flow rate of treated water. The

disinfected plant effluent is discharged to the receiving channel by gravity.


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Wastewater Discharge Outfall

The treated wastewater will be discharged into Tigris River though a 15.09-km outfall

of 800 mm diameter Figure 4-2. The outfall is in good condition, thus no rehabilitation

activities are anticipated.

ESA for Al-Dhebaee WWTP Tirkit District, Salah Al-Din Governorate Name of Project Name of Report

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Figure 2-4: Layout map showing the location of the wastewater discharge outfall pipe


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2.2.4 Rehabilitation Activities

The determination of the required civil works to rehabilitate any project, aged or

exposed to damage, requires a comprehensive assessment of the project in its current

status. For this purpose, a team of engineers with a good experience in the field of

wastewater treatment (design and construction) visited the site and started the

assessment. The following Table 2-2 represents major structural, mechanical and

electrical works that are required for each of the treatment process in order to bring

back the WWTP to work. It is worth mentioning that the administration building, power

plant unit, electrical network, internal roads and walkways, lighting system and the

surrounding fence are totally or partially damaged. Accordingly, new units must be

designed and constructed in order to replace all the destroyed parts. The rehabilitation

and construction phase will extend over a period of eight months, such that 30 workers

will be onsite in order to complete the assigned work.

Figure 2-5 on the following page presents the layout of the WWTP after rehabilitation

works have been completed.

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Table 2-2 Proposed Rehabilitation Activities

Process Civil Works Mechanical Works Electrical Works

Receiving chamber Removal of all deposits and debris accumulated in the chambers

Removal of the defected concrete and recovered the exposed reinforcement bars using special material (will be decided in the next stage).

Coating all concrete faces exposed directly to the wastewater by using anti acids epoxy.

All joints shall be treated by removing the old water seal and restore it by using polysulfide water seal.

All chambers need to be recovered by suitable metal covers.

All cat ladders need to be replaced

Removal and installation of two submersible pumps in the washout pump station.

The existing stainless steel penstocks need rehabilitation.

Rehabilitation of the existing manually cleaned coarse screen.

Supply and installation of control boards for the two submersible pumps installed in the washout pump station.

Aerated grit chamber and blowers room

Removal of all deposits and debris accumulated in the chambers

Construction of a new blower's room

Supply and installation of two air blowers.

Piping works to connect blowers to the existing pipes in the chambers.

Rehabilitation of the existing penstocks

Supply and installation of boards required to control the operation of blowers.

Restoration of the existing wiring system

Venturi (Parshall) flume and mixing chambers

Removal of all deposits and debris accumulated in the chambers

Coating all concrete faces exposed directly to the wastewater by using anti acids epoxy.

All joints shall be treated by removing the old water seal and restore it by using polysulfide water seal

No activities required

Supply, install and test flow recorder unit with float control contained in a weather and vermin proof housing including data transmission to the remote indication in the main control room for flow quantity ranges from 0-0.6 m3/sec

Aeration tank Removal of accumulated sludge and debris in the tanks and channels.

Coating all concrete faces exposed directly to the wastewater by using anti acids epoxy to certify the durability of structures.


Supply and install 60m Aluminum handrail.

Rehabilitation of 24 aerators and the rank baffles by using sand blasting and recoating with suitable epoxy.

Supply and install 10 gearboxes instead of the damaged ones while the other 14 gear boxes need routine maintenance.

Supply and install 6 drain gates (40cm x 80cm) to replace the existing damaged gates.

Supply, install and test 12 electrical motors (30hp, IP 55) required to drive aerators, and rehabilitate the other 12 motors.

Supply and install 24 control boards to control the operation of aerators.

Supply and install 6 dissolved oxygen meters.

Supply and install all cables required to provide power and control signals

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Rehabilitation of 24 gates (40cm width) which control the feeding of tanks.

Supply and install 6 effluent weir gates (5m width) with their driven motors to replace the damaged gates

Clarifiers Removal of accumulated sludge and debris in the tanks and launders.

Coating all concrete faces exposed directly to the wastewater by using anti acids epoxy to certify the durability of structures.


Removal of the defected concrete and using special epoxy material to compensate for the removal concrete.

Removal of the damaged ceramic tiles and replace with similar type of ceramic

Overall cleaning and epoxy coating, replacing and welding the damaged parts, replacing the tension wires supporting the sludge scrapers and scum removal blades, and replacing the sludge scraper rubber tapes.

Replacing the rotating bridges GRP tires (8 tires).

Dissembling, cleaning, and reassembling of 4 telescope.

Replacing the defected scum baffles (width

= 0.6m, required length =10m).

Overall maintenance of the central support including gear box, slewing rings, etc

Replacement all motors driving the rotating bridges, required power is 1hp.

Supply and install new control boards for the operation of motors.

Supply and install all required cables.

RAS and WAS pump station

Cleaning, removal of debris of wet well, pumps channel and the upper receiving chamber and coating all concrete faces exposed to sewage to assure their durability.

Remove all damaged parts and reconstruct the upper room enclosing gears, motors and control boards.

The two damaged cat ladders in the wet well shall be replaced by new ones.

Supply and install handrails surrounding the wet well and add 10m to compensate the damaged parts.

Removal of the existing concrete troughs (if required) and construct new troughs

Supply and install the three missing stop logs ( each 1.3 m width)

Removing the existing three pumps, then supply and install new three pumps.

Supply and install 400mm penstock to control RAS flow and 250mm penstock to control WAS flow.

Supply and install mono rail crane in the upper room.

Supply and install ventilation system for the upper room

Supply and install control boards for the three pumps.

Supply and install control board for mono rail crane.

Supply and install power and control cables and wires for pumps and mono rail crane.

Supply and install lighting system.

Supply and install levels indicators in the wet well to control the pumps operation

Sludge drying beds Repair small areas in concrete walls by using epoxy material.

The existing gate valves (40 valves 150mm size) shall be replaced by new ones

Replace the existing five control boards in the area of drying beds are damaged and

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The upper filter media (fine sand) shall be replaced.

Missing and defected stop logs and wooden partition shall be supplied and installed.


shall be replaced with new ones suitable to operate in this environment

Chlorination unit All debris shall be removed and a new building shall be designed and constructed at the same location of the old one

New mechanical requirements must be installed

New electrical supplements must be installed

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Figure 2-5: Layout of the WWTP after Rehabilitation

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3.1 PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT

This chapter describes the different aspects of the affected environment, commonly

referred to as Baseline Conditions. Determination of the environmental baseline

involves description of conditions existing at present from which subsequent changes

can be predicted and subsequently monitored and managed. The section is divided

into the Physical Environment, Biological Environment and Socioeconomic

Environment.

3.1.1 Climate

Due to the relatively consistent topographic and geographic features in Tikrit, climatic

conditions do not vary considerably within the city. The average annual temperature in

Tikrit is about 21.0 ºC Figure 3-1. As for the wind direction, the prevailing wind

directions in that part of the country are northwesterly and westerly, representing on

the average, 44% of the times Figure 3-2. Rainfall in Tikrit city influenced by the

extension of the Mediterranean climatic conditions, with the rainy season between

November and April. The average annual rainfall recorded at Tikrit gauge station is

approximately 191.7 mm for the year 2017-2018 Figure 3-3.

Figure 3-1: Max, Min and Average Annuals Temperature of Tikrit City. Source: World Weather Online.

3. BASELINE CONDITIONS

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Figure 3-2: Max, Min and Average Annuals Wind Speed of Tikrit City. Source: World Weather Online

Figure 3-3: Average Rainfall Amount of Tikrit City. Source: World Weather Online

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3.2 BIOLOGICAL ENVIRONMENT

3.1.2 Topography

The City of Tikrit is located at the right bank of Tigris River to the north of Samarra.

Geographically, this is the northern frontier district of Iraq. The land is still somewhat

undulating; the old town was built on a group of hills, one of which beside the river,

stands the modern town. The average elevation in the area is between 53-56 meters

(above mean sea level).

3.1.3 Surface and Groundwater Resources

The main source of surface water within the project area is the Tigris River. The source

of this river is located in eastern mountains of Turkey and flows into Iraq along its

northwestern borders. Currently the water quality of the Tigris River is degraded due

to several anthropogenic sources of pollution such as the direct discharge of raw

wastewater.

According to the Environmental and Social Management Framework that was

conducted for Tikrit, Al- Dour, Al-Alam and Al Dhuluiya located in the Salah Al-Din

Governorate, there are no specific aquifer found in the area. Moreover, the nearest

water table to the surface is more than 100m away. As such, the issue of ground water

contamination is not an issue within the project site (ReFAATO,ND).

3.2.1 Ecological Regions (Climate)

An ecoregion (ecological region) is an ecologically and geographically defined area

that is smaller than an ecozone and larger than an ecosystem. Ecoregions cover

relatively large areas of land or water, and contain characteristic, geographically

distinct assemblages of natural communities and species.

The Project Area in Tikrit is located in a combination of three ecological regions. These

regions are described below.

3.2.1.1 Mesopotamian Shrub Desert

This ecoregion represents a transition zone between the vast deserts to the south and

the steppes to the north. The climate is hot and dry. The topography is relatively gentle,

with no large mountains. Elevations of more than 1,970 feet (600 m) are found at the

eastern edge of this ecoregion, but to the east into the Tigris and to the west Euphrates

valleys, the elevation falls to less than 328 feet (100 m). Shrubby rock-rose species,

and woody, dwarf shrubs grow. Both humans and wildlife tend to congregate around

the few wetland and river areas in the region. Reeds and rushes grow in the wetland

areas, while aspen and tamarisk trees grow along river channels.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ecology

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ecozone

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ecosystem

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Community_%28ecology%29

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Species

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3.2.1.2 Arabian Desert and East Sahara - Arabian Xeric Shrub Lands

This is the largest ecoregion of the Arabian Peninsula, stretching from the Yemeni

border to the Arabian Gulf and from Oman to Iraq.

Characteristic mammals include Arabian wolf (Canis lupus arabs), Cape hare (Lepus

capensis), striped hyaena (Hyaena hyaena), sand cat (Felis margarita), red fox (Vulpes

vulpes) and caracal (Caracal caracal).

The rare houbara bustard (Chlamydotis undulata) also inhabits this area, as does the

rare spiny tailed lizard (Uromastyx thomasi). Rainfall triggers fast growth of the annual

desert vegetation dormant within the dry period, as well as hatching of an “instant

crustacean” (Triops) that could be dormant for years.

This ecoregion boundary was formed using Zohary’s (1973) geobotanical map of the

Middle East. It corresponds to Zohary’s classified regions of Sahara-Arabian desert

vegetation of Anabasetea articulatae and Sahara-Arabian interior sand desert

vegetation of Haloxylo-Retametaliaraetami (including Haloxylion persiciarabicum).

3.2.1.3 Tigris-Euphrates Alluvial Salt Marsh

The aquatic vegetation of this ecoregion includes reeds, rushes, and papyrus, which

support large numbers of water-loving species. Water birds stop here while migrating,

and some even spend the winter in these marshes living off the lizards, snakes, frogs,

and fish. Water buffalo, two endemic rodent species, and several other mammals also

call these marshes home. A scientific survey of the ecoregion revealed that more than

79 species of waterfowl, including pelicans, flamingoes, and ducks, use this ecoregion

as their principal wintering area. This area may support more than two-thirds of the

wintering waterfowl in the Middle East. Unique to these wetlands are two species of

mammals; Bunn's short-tailed bandicoot rat and the Mesopotamian gerbil. Other

mammals found in this ecoregion include wolves, common otters, and a subspecies of

smooth-coated otter.

3.2.1.4 Ecosystems

An ecosystem is a biological environment consisting of all the organisms living in a

particular area, as well as all the nonliving (abiotic), physical components of the

environment with which the organisms interact, such as air, soil, water and sunlight.

The Project Area is broadly divided into the two following ecosystems.

3.2.1.5 Tharthar Lake and Tigris River Ecosystems

This ecosystem consists of Tharthar Lake and Tigris River. It also includes the artificial

Canals. This ecosystem demonstrates the elements and characteristics of a wetland

which are critical for migrating birds, both as rest stops on their migrations and as

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Biological

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Natural_environment

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Organisms

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winter habitat. Among the birds that depend on the fresh water of this ecosystem are

the speckled teals, lesser kestrels, and imperial eagles. Some resident desert birds,

such as the Houbara bustard, take advantage of intermittent stream areas (wadis) in

the area.

3.2.1.6 Desert Ecosystem

Because the desert steppe is not heavily populated by humans, some large vertebrates

have persisted there. These include predators such as wolves, Asiatic jackals, striped

hyenas, caracals, swamp cats, goitered gazelles, and wild boars. Other characteristic

species of this ecosystem are the Euphrates jerboa (similar to a gerbil) and the desert

monitor (a lizard).

3.2.2 Flora

Flora is the plant life occurring in a particular region or time, generally the naturally

occurring or indigenous—native plant life.

Vegetation may be described as very diffuse but fairly evenly distributed sand shrub

land, interrupted in some parts by near sterile inter-dune floors. Typical plants are

Calligonum crinitum on dune slopes, saltbush (Cornulaca arabica) and tussocks of

sedge (Cyperus conglomeratus). Other widespread associates are Dipterygium

glaucum, Limeumarabicum and Zygophyllum mandavillei. Trees are absent, except

around the outer margins, and are typically Acacia ehrenbergiana and Prosopis

cineraria in drainage lines and pans between dunes, Calligonum comosum is the

characteristic woody perennial, growing in windblown sand, with a succession of

annual herbs that grow after rain, of which Danthonia forskallii is the most common.

Great variety of herbs and shrubs grow in this region. Most belong to the sage and

daisy families: mugwort (Artemisis vulgaris), goosefoot, milkweed, thyme, and various

rhizomic plants are examples. There also are many different grasses.

Toward the riverside lowlands many other plants appear, including storks bill and

plantain (common names). Willows, tamarisks, poplars, licorice plants, and bull rushes

grow along the banks of the nearby Rivers.

There does not appear to be any evidence of sensitive flora at the project site and its

surroundings.

3.2.3 Fauna

Fauna is all of the animal life of any particular region or time. There are many resident

species, though the effect of large-scale of impacts on migrants and seasonal visitors

which were once numerous has not been fully determined. The lion, oryx, ostrich and

wild ass have become extinct in those areas. Wolves, foxes, jackals, hyenas, wild pigs,

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Plant

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indigenous_%28ecology%29

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Native_plant

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Animal

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3.3 SOCIOECONOMIC ENVIRONMENT

and wildcats are found, as well as many small animals, such as; martens, badgers,

otters, porcupines, and muskrats. Marcia's gazelle survives in certain remote desert

locations. Rivers, streams, and lakes are well stocked with a variety of fish, notably

carp, various species of Barbus, catfish, and loach. Moreover, in Salah Din

Governorate, different types of species that depend on large water bodies are present

within this area. This include Otters, Indian Crested Porcupines, and Peregrine Falcons

that are found along the Tigris River banks (MoE, 2014). However, there is no evidence

that the project site and its surroundings are home to any sensitive fauna.

3.2.4 Protection Status and Current Ecological Issues

Human impacts and threats are often concentrated in areas of permanent or semi-

permanent waters. These oases often endure high levels of human activity. Diversion

of water for human consumption, agriculture, and livestock (sheep, goats, and camels)

reduces the amount available for wildlife. Overgrazing, hunting, and over fishing are

also problems in portions of these eco-regions. Unfortunately, local extinctions are

witnessed of Canis Lupus, Oryx leucoryx, Hyaena hyaena, jackal (Canis aureus) and

honey badger (Mellivora capensis). Gazelle subgutturosa and G. gazella still survive,

though with very small populations and restricted ranges. The sand cat (Felis

margarita), Ruppell's fox (Vulpes rueppellii) and Lepus capensis are thought to be far

less numerous than they were.

3.3.1 Demographics

Before ISIS, Tikrit city had a total population of about 150,000 as for the year 2012.

According to the world population review, the total population decreased to 42,477 in

2018.

The main demographic indicators are:

According to the available statistics until 2014, population growth rate was 2.6%;

40% of the population is less than 15 years according to the statistics of 2012; and 56.9% are in the category between 15- 64 years;

69% of the population is in the urban areas however, 31% are in areas according to the statistics for 2014 (MOCHMPW, 2017).

3.3.2 Economy and Living Standards

According to the UNDP report on the Iraq living conditions, a high percentage of

households within Salahuddin Governarate described their financial status as “neither

poor nor rich when surveyed. Moreover, the unemployment rate of this governorate is

12-13% which falls under is the lowest rate group. As for the literacy rate, 50 to 59%

of Salahuddin Governorate population that are above 15 years are able to read and

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write. Crowding was also assessed in this report, the results shows that 7-11% of

Salahuddin Governorate household has more than three persons per room (UNDP,

2005).

3.3.3 Agricultural Activities

Geographical conditions in Tikrit area are favorable for irrigation because of the

availability of water from Tigris. The construction of small dams and diversion weirs

supplemented by irrigation and drainage canals encouraged agricultural activities in

the area. However, no detailed information could be obtained on the extent or type of

agricultural activities practiced by the residents of the project area. The political and

sectarian violence dominating the area for a considerable time have affected normal

daily lives of the people as well as the agricultural activities.

3.3.4 Infrastructure

The following Table 3-1 represents the infrastructural services that are found in Tikrit.

Table 3-1: Services in Tikrit. Source: (MOCHMPW, 2017)

Service Name and accessibility

Education Tikrit University, 2900 students

269 secondary schools

16 vocational schools

11 teacher training institutes.

Health 9 hospitals and 13 public medical clinics

Access to drinking water 72.5%.

Access to sanitary network 82.4%.

Waste management No sanitary landfills in the area, only authorized dumping sites; municipal waste collection rate is 43.1%

Access to electricity grid 89.6%

3.3.5 Archeological Sites

The Forty Shrine in Tikrit is the oldest shrine in Iraq. It was destroyed in 2014 by ISIS.

However, the project site is distanced from any known site of historical and cultural

heritage. However, the chance findings are still possible.

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APPLICABLE AND RELEVANT REGULATIONS AND

STANDARDS

4.1

This chapter aims to provide a review of Iraq’s policy instruments, laws, regulations,

standards and regulations that are applicable to the proposed project. The main

purpose of the legal chapter is to provide a comprehensive but brief review of all

planning, development, environmental, and monitoring legislation that are of particular

relevance to the project. Moreover, since the proposed project is financed by the World

Bank, all environmental and social safeguards issued by the World Bank Group are

also presented.

4.1.1 Law No. 37 of 2008: The Ministry of Environment

This Law was established to define MOE structure, goals and the means of

implementing them. The main objective of the MOE is to protect the environment and

public health in order to ensure sustainable development. As such, this law

necessitates the preparation of an environmental impact assessment by an adequate

agency to identify activities that might affect the environment. Moreover, MOE is

responsible for establishing environmental and health standards, guidelines and

control measures.

4.1.2 Law No. 27 of 2009: Protection and Improvement of

Environment

This law requires the undertaking an Environmental Impact Assessment for new

development projects in the country. The law aims to protect the environment from

potential impacts that might result from executing the proposed project. Moreover, the

law specifies regulations that aim to protect water bodies against pollution, reduce air

and noise pollution, protect soil degradation and minimize biodiversity disturbance.

The law also identifies the punitive actions for violation of the stated regulations.

4.1.3 Law No. 55 of 2002: The Law of Antiquities and Heritage

The law states that no one is allowed to take antiquity or heritage material that may be discovered after excavating or digging a specific land without a written permit from the State Board of Antiquities and Heritage. The law provides regulations on communication channels upon discovery of the unregistered antiquities and the measures to be undertaken for the preservation of the historical and archeological sites.

4. LEGAL AND INSTITUTIONAL FRAMEWORK

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4.1.4 Law No. 41 of 2015: Noise Protection and Control

This Law identifies maximum permissible noise limits during day and night time for the

industrial, commercial and industrial zones as follows Tab;e 4-1.

Table 4-1: Noise Limits for Different Working Zones

Reception zone Level LAeq (daytime) Level LAeq (nighttime)

Industrial 70 65

Commercial 65 60

Residential 55 45

4.1.5 Law No. 27 of 1999: Establishment of the General Authority for Water and Sewage

The aim of this regulation is to protect public water bodies from pollution. It also

identifies physical, chemical, and biological standards for water quality and wastewater

discharges.

Table 4-2 shows the guidelines for the discharge of wastewater into both natural water

bodies and sewers.

Table 4-2: Effluent Discharge Parameters

Pollutant Limits for Discharge into ·water Bodies Limits to discharge into Sewer

Color NIA NIA

Temperature <35°C 45°C

Susoended Solids 60 mall 750 mil/I.

pH 6 -9.5 6 -9.5

BOD <40 1000

COD <100 NIA

Nitrate 50 m"'1 NIA

Phosphate 3 mg/L NIA

Free Chlorine Trace 100 mg/L

Lead 0.1m"'1 0.1ffiQ/L

Copper 0.2 mg/L NIA

Mercury 0.005 mg/L 0.001 mg/L

Sulphate if the ratio of the discharge is to the amount of source water is 1:1000 or less, the sulphate concentration should not exceed 400 mg/L

300 mg/L

Total hydrocarbons & derivatives

For the river with continuous flow,5mg/L provided

NIA

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4.1.6 Labor Law of 2015

According to Article 2, the purpose of this Law is to regulate the work relationship

between the workers and employers and their associations, in order to protect their

rights and achieve sustainable development based on social justice and equity,

secure decent work for all, without any discrimination for the development of the

national economy and the achievement of human rights and fundamental freedoms,

regulate the work of foreigners working or wishing to work in Iraq and implement the

provisions of Arab and international labor agreements duly ratified.

4.1.7 Preservation of Water Resources Regulation No. 2 of 2001

In this regulation, instructions on wastewater disposal and recycling are identified. It

also prohibits the discharge of any kind of effluent to the public water under any

condition unless taking an approval from the Office of Protection and Improvement of

the Environment.

4.1.8 Protection of Ambient Air Quality Regulation No. 4 of 2012

This regulation aims to protect ambient air quality and control sources of pollution. The

regulation necessitates that sources emitting air pollutants abide by national limits and

use monitoring equipment to ensure compliance with standards. It also prohibits the

burning of all types of wastes indoors or in open air, or next to a residential regions or

near water bodies.

4.1.9 MOE Instructions No. 3 for 2011 for Project Categorization

Three main categories were stated in these instruction that were issued by the MOE

to establish criteria for project classification in Iraq. These categories are A, B, and C,

which will be used later during the assessment of the project and thus approving or

rejecting it based on the identified impacts. The criteria were based on significance

levels of negative impacts and magnitude of impacts and extent of influence. Note that

the proposed project was not mentioned within the list of each category identified in

this instruction.

4.1.10 Instructions No. 3/1985 concerning Occupational Safety

Manpower involvement is required during different phases of project construction, then to provide management, controlling and controlling activities during the operational phase. As such, this instruction regulates the work place by ensuring that it is equipped with occupational health and safety prevention and protective measures.

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4.2.1 OP/BP 4.01 Environmental Assessment

The objective of this OP/BP is to identify, prevent, and mitigate the potential adverse

environmental and social impacts associated with the implementation of a proposed

project. In the World Bank operations, the Environmental Assessment (EA) is

conducted in an effort to improve decision making, ensure that proposed project is

environmentally sustainable, and that affected communities have been properly

consulted. Moreover, the Bank classifies the proposed project into three main

categories. The classification is based on the location, type, sensitivity, and scale of

the project as well as the nature and significance of its environmental impacts. These

categories are as follows:

Category “A”: Significant negative environmental impacts are likely to occur as a result of implementing the proposed project. These impacts might affect an area broader than the project sites.

Category “B”: Potential environmental impacts are less adverse than those of Category “A” projects. These impacts occur within the project site and proposed mitigation measures can be designed and implemented more readily than Category "A" projects. As such, a preliminary EIA must be prepared.

Category “C”: Minimal or no negative environmental impacts are likely to occur as a result of implementing the proposed project. As such, an EIA is not required in this case.

This project falls under Category “B” as the majority of impacts are expected to be

localized and temporary.

4.2.2 Environmental, Health, and Safety Guidelines

The Environmental, Health and Safety (EHS) Guidelines are reference documents for

environment, health and safety for the establishment of a new project. These

documents contain achievable measures and performance levels for new industries

and facilities at feasible costs using existing technologies. Moreover, when host

country standards differ from the levels and measures presented in the EHS

Guidelines, the project must follow whichever is more stringent.

The following guidelines apply to the proposed project:

Wastewater and Ambient Water Quality

Community Health and Safety

Occupational Health and Safety

Construction and Decommissioning

4.2 WORLD BANK POLICIES, PROCEDURES AND GUIDELINES

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This section describes the potential anticipated environmental impacts associated with

the rehabilitation and operation of the WWTP in Tikrit. The evaluation of potential

environmental impacts was based on scientific evidence, literature review and the

professional judgment of the Consultant. The process of impact evaluation starts with

the identification of project-related activities and environmental aspects, then

determining potential impacts on the environment that might rise from the

implementation of the proposed project (during rehabilitation and operation), and finally

assessing and evaluating potential implications based on the criteria listed in Table 5-

1.

Table 5-1: Impact Criteria for Impact Evaluation

Category Classification Criteria

N

(Nature)

B (Beneficial)

Impacts that are considered to improve the baseline condition or introduces a new desirable factor

A (Adverse)

Impacts that have an adverse change from the baseline condition or lead to a new undesirable factor

T

(Type)

D (Direct)

Resulting impacts from a direct interaction between a project activity and the surrounding environment

S (Secondary)

Impacts that are generated as a result of subsequent interactions within the environment

C

(Cumulative)

Combined impacts that act together with other impacts to disturb the same environmental receptor or resource

M

(Magnitude)

L

(Low)

Disruption of already degraded areas with little conservation significance. Negligible alterations in baseline conditions.

High possibility to mitigate negative impacts on the environment (physical, biological, socio-economical) to the extent of

insignificant effects.

Simple mitigation measures might be needed to reduce impacts

M

(Moderate)

Medium range impact (beyond project site but restricted to project area).

Medium-term impact and reversible over time

Possibility to mitigate negative impacts on the environment

(physical, biological, socio-economical). Yet, the application of mitigation measures might not prevent certain negative effects

Destruction or disturbance of areas with conservation value

Mitigation measures will help in reducing impacts

H

(High)

Destruction of endangered or rare species and/or disturbance to areas of high conservation value

The implementation of mitigation is obligatory

Largely irreversible impacts on the environment (physical,

biological, socio-economical)

Considerable impact on the livelihoods of nearby residents

Potentially irreversible destruction to a site of social and/or cultural significance

E (Extent)

L (Local)

Restricted to the project site and/or area

R

(Regional)

Impact affecting resources on a regional or national scale which extend beyond project area

5. IMPACT EVALUATION

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5.1 IMPACTS DURING CONSTRUCTION

Category Classification Criteria

G (Global)

Impact affecting resources on a global scale which extend to transboundary settings

D (Duration)

S (Short-term)

Impacts that are classified by their short duration effect (less than one year)

M (Medium-term)

Impacts that are classified by their medium duration effect (1-10 years)

L (Long-term)

Impacts that are classified by their long duration effect (over 10 years)

P

(Persistent)

Impacts that will persist in the foreseeable future

R

(Reversibility)

R (Reversible)

Impacts may be reversible, or able to be rehabilitated upon the shutdown of the proposed project

I

(Irreversible)

Impacts may not be reversible, or able to be rehabilitated upon the shutdown of the proposed project

L (Likelihood)

L (Low)

An impact that is unlikely to occur under normal operating conditions

M (Medium)

An impact that might possibly occur

H (High)

An impact is likely to occur under normal operating conditions

S (Significance)

L (Low)

No considerable adverse alteration to the existing environment

Low priority mitigation

M (Medium)

Results in considerable adverse alteration to the existing environment

Medium priority for mitigation and obligatory

H (High)

Results in considerable adverse alteration to the existing environment

Mitigation measures are high priority and obligatory

The following sections provide a narrative description of the anticipated impacts before mitigation measures are implemented during both the construction and operation phases of the project.

The majority of impacts resulting from the project will occur during the WWTP

rehabilitation phase. However, most of these impacts are temporary for the duration of

the works.

5.1.1 Water and Soil Quality

Contamination of surface water and soil as a result of improper solid waste disposal,

inappropriate discharge of wastewater, accidental oil and chemical spillages, and

diversion of contaminated rainwater runoff from the project site. Moreover, since the

water table at the project location is high, the impact on groundwater is insignificant.

However, proper management of the generated solid waste and wastewater along with

the proper handling and storage of chemicals must be implemented.

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A detailed description of the sources of pollution along with the associated activities

are listed below:

Construction Wastewater

Major construction activities that lead to the generation of wastewater include:

Washing of machinery;

Concrete mixing;

Maintenance of heavy machines and vehicles that generates wastewater contaminated with oil and grease;

Excavation of the site thus generating runoffs contaminated with suspended solids, especially during rainy days;

Storm water runoff that contains high amounts of oil, grease and suspended solids

This wastewater might pollute nearby water bodies and soils if not discharged and

managed properly.

Domestic Wastewater

For a period of 8 months, 30 workers are needed during excavation and construction

of WWTP. Based on the average monthly water consumption of 1.91 m³/person/month

(dos Santos et al., 2015), it is estimated that 1222.4 m3 of water will be used for worker

hygiene during this phase. Assuming that 80% of fresh water consumption will end up

as wastewater, it is estimated that 977.92 m3 of domestic wastewater will be generated

during the entire construction and rehabilitation phase.

Accidental Spillage

Water and soil could be polluted as a result of accidental oil or chemical spills from the

equipment used for the rehabilitation of the WWTP. The spills may occur during

storage and re-fueling of diesel supplies for power generation, as well as using oil,

lubricants, anti-acids epoxy, during rehabilitation activities, and equipment

maintenance and operation. With the installation of the wastewater pipelines supply,

accidental spill of oils and chemicals could occur and contaminate soil layers. The spills

may also affect water quality of the already polluted Tigris River during the

rehabilitation of the WWTP.

Solid Waste Generation

Abundant volumes of solid waste will be generated from the rehabilitation activities of

the WWTP, including damaged concrete units, deposits, debris and sludge

accumulated on several process units, cement and their resulting empty bags,

electrical wiring, rebar, wood and piles of sand and dirt due to excavation.

Inappropriate waste handling and improper disposal practices of construction waste

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may result in ground and surface water contamination due to leaching and runoffs,

hence, reduction in overall water quality. In addition, these materials could be directly

discharged into Tigris River as it is located 6.5 km away from the project site.

As for the accumulated sludge in the old units of the WWTP (tanks, channels and

media filter), this sludge has stabilized and all organic material and volatile suspended

solids had been removed due to the condition of drying for many years. Therefore, no

negative impact is anticipated by discharging the sludge into a sanitary landfill.

5.1.2 Air Quality

The machinery and vehicles used during the rehabilitation phase produce exhaust

emissions and gases that can temporarily affect local air quality. Moreover, exhaust

emissions will also result from the power generator that will be utilized during the

construction phase. In general, this exhaust contains particular matter, Benzene,

Toluene, Xylenes, Ozone, Nitrogen Oxides, and Sulphur Oxides, Carbon Dioxide and

Carbon Monoxide.

The removal of exploded and demolished units, movement and transportations

practiced by heavy machinery on the site, generate particulate emissions such as dust

that can also affect the local air quality. Dust emissions around the WWTP could disturb

the workers onsite. As the location of the plant is in a desert the hosted fauna will be

disturbed by the different construction activities and all the resulting emissions. Open

burning of solid waste or other material on site could release emissions accompanied

by toxins.

As for odor emissions during the rehabilitation phase, the improper handling and

disposal of solid wastes, especially the accumulated sludge and debris may lead to

odor emissions.

5.1.3 Noise

Noise will be generated during the rehabilitation activities of the WWTP. These

activities include transportation or delivery of raw materials, trucks carrying debris,

concrete mixing, drilling and excavation and plant construction. and operation of heavy

vehicle movement such as excavators. All these activities require heavy construction

machineries and equipment to be onsite. A list of major machineries and equipment

along with their noise levels decibels (dB) is shown in Table 5-2.

Table 5-2: Noise Levels Emitted from Construction Machinery and Equipment

Machinery/Equipment Noise Level at 16 m (50 ft) from source in dB (A)

Back Hoe/Loader 80

Concrete Mixer Truck 85

Dump Truck 84

Generator 82

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Machinery/Equipment Noise Level at 16 m (50 ft) from source in dB (A)

Pile Driver 95

Jack hammer 85

Source: Knauer et al., 2006

As the nearest residential area is 4.5 km away from the project site, noise from the

rehabilitation of the WWTP will not likely disturb the town residents. However, it will

probably affect workers that are present onsite. Moreover, animals and birds that use

the area for foraging and breading might be affected. In any cases, noise levels are

highly dependent on the extent and duration of the construction activities and are

temporary and specific to the construction phase.

5.1.4 Use of Natural Resources

5.1.4.1 Water Consumption

Water is needed for different processes of the construction activities. It is needed for

concrete mixing, cleaning of tools and the used machinery, dust suppression, ground

works activities and for potential testing of the newly constructed supplies. Aside from

construction water consumption, the construction phase will also require the

consumption of water for domestic usages which was estimated to be 1222.4 m3

(Section 5.1.1). Water consumption in the construction site may be overused causing

overexploitation of water resources.

5.1.4.2 Energy Use

It is estimated that several generators will be installed and used on site for energy supply. Fuel and oils are needed for the generators and for operation and maintenance of machinery engines on the site. If generators and engines are left running without being used in any activity, overconsumption and depletion of fuel is predicted to occur. However, this impact is temporary and short in duration as the rehabilitation phase is expected to last 8 months.

5.1.5 Land Resources

The rehabilitation phase will not change the land use of the area since the old WWTP

is already constructed on that plot area and no additional land will be needed for the

rehabilitation. Thus, the proposed rehabilitation project will not affect the land use and

land cover of the area.

5.1.6 Flora and Fauna

Since the rehabilitation project is located in the desert which has sparse vegetation

areas on an already built up land, the impact of the proposed project will not affect the

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flora significantly. As for the fauna, deserts usually host predators such as wolves,

Asiatic jackals, striped hyenas, caracals, swamp cats, goitered gazelles, wild boars,

jerboa (similar to a gerbil) and the desert monitor (a lizard). During the rehabilitation

phase, high noise and dust levels can disturb these animals. However, this impact is

temporary and is not likely to be significant.

5.1.7 Visual Intrusion

The project site landscape will not change as the WWTP structures already exists.

Moreover, the WWTP is already surrounded by a fence and is located away from

residential areas. As such the rehabilitation of the treatment plant will not cause visual

intrusion.

5.1.8 Socioeconomic Activities

The construction of the WWTP is an economic opportunity for the selected contractor

and their subcontractors. Local businesses may benefit from rehabilitation activities

through selling raw materials, equipment, machinery and goods and the project will

create 30 jobs and could hire engineers, technicians and workers from the local

population. This impact is, however, temporary and jobs will be discontinued as soon

as rehabilitation works are complete.

5.1.9 Traffic

During the construction process, activities and movement of truck excavators and

vehicles coming in and out of the construction site including transporting debris and

construction material, will increase traffic on all roads leading to the site (local and

agricultural roads). However, those roads are not used by residents as the project

location is far from residential areas (4.5 km away).

In addition, there is a potential risk of material falling from trucks during the

transportation of raw material and equipment to the WWTP site thus causing accidents

and leading to traffic congestion.

5.1.10 Archeological Sites

The project is not expected to result in any impacts on cultural heritage and

archaeological sites.

5.1.11 Health and Safety

Before the execution of the project clearance and removal of unexploded ordnance

(UXO) must be done from the Ministries of Interior (MOI). This is an important issue

since the WWTP was destroyed during armed conflict and has been left behind. The

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5.2 IMPACTS DURING OPERATION

project site must be identified as safe in order to protect workers’ health and life. Based

on input from Tikrit Sewage Directorate, the site has been cleared of UXO by the army;

thus the site is considered safe for the workers who will undertake the rehabilitation

activities.

In addition, during high temperature days, workers could be exposed to heat stress

and dehydration. Accident and injuries to workers and the public may be caused by

transportation accidents, falls, electric shock, mishandling of machinery and other

rehabilitation and construction related accidents. The high noise generated from the

machinery could damage the hearing of the workers and dust generation from the

different rehabilitation and construction activities, movements and transportations may

cause respiratory problems for workers on site if appropriate personal protection

equipment are not being used.

In addition, impacts from Gender Based Violence (GBV) and Violence Against Children

(VAC) may occur during the rehabilitation phase. These impacts will most likey occur

due to labor mobilization and the unfamiliar cultural and social settings. Moreover,

social interactions between workers living in camps, surrounding communities, local

vendors and sellers can cause culturally insensitive behavior and relationships leading

to GBV, VAC and sexual harassment incidents (GGITR & GTGDR, 2018).


Wastewater Treated by the Plant

At the present, some portion of the wastewater generated by the unserved area in

Tikrit is collected in the cesspits while the rest is discharged into the nearby irrigation

and drainage canals by means of the existing primitive network and other primitive

short discharge lines. The present practice of collecting and storing the raw wastewater

in cesspits in the city is inevitably affecting the groundwater quality in the underlying

aquifers.

With the rehabilitation and operation of the WWTP, wastewater will be routed by the

networks directly from its source to the plant where it will be treated. This is expected

to have an overall positive impact on soil quality, due to the fact that raw wastewater

used to be discharged directly into the environment of the study area without any prior

treatment. In addition, surface and groundwater quality of the region will improve after

the reoperation of the WWTP and controlling the haphazard discharge of raw

wastewater into the Tigris River. In general, the current conditions of Tigris River and

springs in the study area will be improved.

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If any circumstances such as depletion of fuel or electricity shortage cause the

disruption of the treatment plant operation, wastewater in that case will be discharged

directly into the river and the same poor quality conditions of the river will return as

before. However, the wastewater treatment plant is designed to accommodate any

electricity shortages that might occur. In fact, this project and most of infrastructure

projects in Iraq, is provided with emergency power feeder 24/7. In addition, the plant

is equipped with standby generator to cover any power failure from the main national

grid and there is a storage fuel tank which cover fuel supply for 7 days.

Chemical Spills and Leakages

Raw wastewater that is flowing to several units of the treatment plan might leak if the

associated pipes not maintained and monitored regularly. This may result in adverse

impacts on groundwater and soil quality in the area. In addition, leakages from sludge

drying beds could occur and negatively affect the soil as well as water quality.

Furthermore, accidental spills from fuel and oil tanks may occur due to irregular

maintenance and inadequate monitoring. Accidental chemical spills and leakages

could negatively affect soil quality and water quality.

Improper Disposal of Sludge and Solid Waste

The sludge is the final element produced by the treatment plant and may lead to

pollution of water or soil if not properly treated and disposed. The provided sludge

drying bed area is 6,400 m2 for dewatering and drying

It is expected that the sludge holding area will increase the number of insects including

flies and mosquitoes as the sludge may be stored for a certain period before its

disposal. After this period, the dried stable sludge will be sold to farmers to be used as

soil conditioner.

Solid waste generated by the workers and office related activities must be disposed in

licensed disposal sites. If not properly managed or disposed in open areas or burned

onsite, this will lead to the degradation of soil, air and water quality.

Reuse of treated effluent

At present, farmers within the catchment area of the WWTP are using the poor water

quality of the Tigris River for irrigation. After the operation the WWTP, the treated

effluent will improve the water quality of the River and reduce the health risks of

irrigating using water contaminated with raw sewage.

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5.2.2 Air Quality

Currently, odor is released in various locations throughout the project area from open

channels (irrigation and drainage canals) discharging directly into the Tigris River. The

project will eliminate these sources of odor. However, foul odor could be emitted from

different processes of the WWTP such as its inlet pump station, screening unit, grit

and oil removal tank, and the mechanical sludge thickening units. These gases include

hydrogen sulfide (H2S) and ammonia (NH3). Knowing that the WWTP is not located

near vulnerable areas (hospitals, schools, residential areas), an odor control system

was not considered in the design. However, the treatment processes release toxic and

flammable gases that can combust if not properly handled. Moreover, these types of

emissions might affect the workers onsite.

In addition, the WWTP could be a source of releasing into the environment greenhouse

gases (GHG) such carbon dioxide (CO2), nitrous oxide (N2O), chlorine gas (Cl2) and

methane (CH4) emanating from combustion emissions from the power plant that will

be constructed on the site. This will add to Iraq’s contribution to global GHG. Moreover,

these gases are flammable, and if fires occur, it could spread to the nearby areas and

negatively affect air quality.

5.2.3 Noise

During the operation, noise is expected to arise mainly from the operation of the

WWTP, pumping stations and from other heavy machinery used during maintenance

activities. The noise generated from these machineries might disturb desert animals.

Moreover, an increase in noise levels is expected to occur from the entering and exiting

of sludge tankers to and from the WWTP. However, this impact is not considered to be

significant as the WWTP is located away from residential areas.


5.2.4.1 Water Consumption

The WWTP does not require any use of fresh water resources in order to operate.

However, during operation, the workers present on site will use small amount of water

on a daily basis for personal uses. It is worth mentioning that the consumption and

over-exploitation of fresh water for irrigation will decrease as the treated wastewater

may be indirectly used for this purpose

5.2.4.2 Energy Use

As for energy consumption, the proposed project will consume energy from an onsite

power plant for the operation of the WWTP and its different components. As such, the

WWTP will slightly contribute in the depletion of natural resources.

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The project site is located within an area that is already occupied. Thus the proposed

rehabilitation project will not involve a change in the land use of the project area.

5.2.6 Biological Environment

The life of the overall terrestrial and freshwater biodiversity will be improved due to the

reduction of uncontrolled wastewater discharges and the amelioration of their quality

in the area and especially in Tigris River.

The flammable gases generated by the treatment plant such as hydrogen sulfide and

methane may cause fires and negatively affect flora and fauna if not properly managed.

As for the sludge, if it is not properly treated and disposed, biodiversity could also be

negatively affected.

5.2.7 Visual intrusion

The WWTP to be rehabilitated is constructed within a fenced plot and far away from

residential areas. As such, visual intrusion is not expected.

5.2.8 Socioeconomic Environment

5.2.8.1 Economic Activities

Once constructed, permanent job opportunities will be created for the local population

at the facility. The operation of the WWTP requires the employment of skilled

technicians, professionals and guards.

5.2.8.2 Traffic

Once the WWTP starts to operate, a slight increase in the number of cars passing on

the roads (local and agricultural) that leads to the treatment plant will be expected

mostly those transporting the facility workers and engineers. Moreover, the trucks that

are responsible to transfer the generated dried sludge to farmers will frequently use

these roads.

5.2.9 Public Health and Safety

The proper treatment of the sewage discharges and its safe disposal into the

environment will reduce surface water pollution. As a consequence, the risk of

proliferation of disease vectors and incidence of infections directly or indirectly will be

reduced. As a result, elimination of raw sewage discharge will improve the overall

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health of the population that is using the Tigris River for several purposes, as well as

their quality of life.

However, workers at the treatment plant will be exposed to occupational risks from

mishandling of machinery, falling, slipping and electrocution. A collection of gases

commonly released by the WWTPs can cause health related problems for workers

inside the facility. The gases include hydrogen sulfide, carbon dioxide, methane and

ammonia. Exposure to high concentrations of carbon dioxide and ammonia could

cause respiratory diseases to the workers. Many health problems such as eye irritation,

headaches, cough, sore throat, nausea and shortness of breath could be caused by

exposures to hydrogen sulfide. In addition, ammonia could lead to lung damage if the

individual has been exposed for a long period of time.

The exposure of the workers to untreated wastewater and sludge could also be a

cause of health problems. Workers could be exposed to pathogens, gases, heavy

metals, microorganisms and chemicals through ingestion, inhalation, or contact with

skin. If it accumulates on site, sludge will lead to odors, vector breeding and infections.

As part of the sewage treatment process, chemicals and chlorine gas will be stored

onsite. Chlorine is a highly toxic and, if used in high concentrations, can cause skin

burns, severe irritation, tissue destruction and eye damage. It is 2.5 times heavier than

air, thus any leak will stay close to the ground where it can be inhaled by an operator

(Pa. DEP, 2016). As such, if not stored properly, exposure to these chemicals may be

a health risk to the operators of the treatment plant.

GBV and VAC may occur during the operation of the wastewater treatment plant.

Incidents related to GBV and VAC include criminal behavior, sexual harassment of

women and girls, exploitative sexual relations, and illicit sexual relations with minors

and child labor from the local community.

5.2.10 Cultural Heritage

There is no evidence of any historical sites in the proposed location of the wastewater

treatment plant. Thus the proposed project will not impact the cultural heritage of the

region.

The following Tables (Table 5-3 and Table 5-4) present a summary of the anticipated

impacts that might arise during the construction and operation phase along with an

impact evaluation based on the criteria discussed at the beginning of the section.

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Table 5-3: Impact Evaluation During construction

Sources of Impact

Potential Impact

Evaluation of Impact

N T M E D R L S

Air Emissions Emissions of generators, machinery, trucks or open burning activities

Dust generation from construction and excavation activities

A

D

M

L

S

I

M

M

Noise/Odors/Light

Transportation or delivery of raw materials, trucks movement, concrete mixing, drilling, plant construction and operation of heavy vehicle movement such as excavators

Disturbance of nearby areas and animal escape through noise and light

A

D

L

L

S

R

H

L

Wastewater Generation Improper disposal of wastewater from workers, water coming from cleaning of machines and equipment

A D M R S R M M53.

Soil Quality Accidental spills of oils and chemicals on the soil from machines and trucks

Improper disposal of waste

A

D

M

L

M

I

M

M

Solid Waste Generation Improper disposal of solid waste generated from workers and the used materials, removal of destroyed units, construction waste from excavation and drilling activities

A D M R S R M L

Accidental Releases Leakages from generators, trucks and from transportation of chemicals and oils A D M L P I M M

Energy Resources High consumption rates of electricity, fossil fuel, etc. A S L R S I H M

Water Resources

High consumption rates of water for construction related activities

Reduction in overall surface water quality due to improper disposal of construction waste

Water pollution due to accidental spill of oils and chemicals

A

S

M

L

S

I

M

M

Land Resources Potential loss of habitats A D L L P I M M

Biological Resources Habitat disturbance and possible habitat loss A D L L P I M M

Socio-economic

Creation of job opportunities for local communities B D L L M R M M

Slight increase in traffic due to the transport of construction materials

Material falling from vehicles during transport may cause traffic accidents or congestion

Potential occurrence of GBV and VAC incidents

A

S

M

L

S

R

L

L

Visual Intrusion Landscape alteration due to preparation and construction activities A D L L S R H L

Health and Safety Hazards Accident and injuries to workers because of construction activities

Dust generation and noise may cause health related problems for workers

A

D

H

L

S

I

M

M

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Table 5-4: Impact Evaluation during Operation

Sources of Impact

Project Activities

Evaluation of Impact

N T M E D R L S

Air Emissions

Emission of toxic gases from the wastewater treatment plant A D M L L I L M

Emission of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases from back-up generator A C L R L I M L

Odors Odor emitted from wastewater treatment plant disturbing workers and wildlife A D M L L R H M

Wastewater Generation Treatment of wastewater from the towns

Improved water in Tigris River to be used for Irrigation

B

D

H

R

L

R

H

H


Improper disposal of solid waste from offices A D L L M R L L

Improper disposal of sludge and leakages from drying beds may lead to pollution of water or soil

A D M R L I L M

Accidental Releases Release of diesel and oils from their storage places into the environment A D M R L I M M

Energy Resources Overuse of diesel and oils for operation of generators and treatment plant A S M L L I H M

Water Resources Overuse of fresh water for toilets in offices A S M L L I M L

Biological Resources Deterioration of biodiversity from the improper disposal of sludge

Disturbance of biodiversity due to the lack of maintenance activities

A

D

M

L

L

I

L

L

Socio-economic

Creation of job opportunities B D L L L R M M

Slight increase in traffic due the entrance and exit from the road leading to the treatment plant leading to potential accidents

Potential occurrence of GBV and VAC incidents

A

D

L

L

L

R

M

L

Health and Safety Hazards

Work related accidents

Exposure of workers to untreated sludge

Health impact from emissions from the facility

Increase of number of insects due to sludge drying beds

A

D

H

L

L

I

M

M

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6.1 SITE ALTERNATIVE

6.2 PROCESS ALTERNATIVE

6.3 REUSE OF THE TREATED WASTEWATER

The current project aims to rehabilitate an already existing WWTP in order to bring it

back to work. Moreover, the WWTP is located at the southwest of the Tikrit city in a

rural area far away from any residential or sensitive area. Therefore, building a new

treatment plant in another location is not considered a sustainable and feasible option

compared to the rehabilitation and operation of the existing one.

In wastewater treatment plants, the installation of odor control systems helps in

reducing the foul odor that is emitted from several units during the process of

wastewater treatment. This odor a collection of gases such as hydrogen sulfide, carbon

dioxide, methane and ammonia that affect nearby residents and the workers onsite.

Physicochemical methods can be implemented in order to treatment the odor within

the facility. The treatment is done by the passage of odorous air upwards through a

vertical cylindrical tank and subjecting it to a sprinkling jet of oxidizing chemicals such

as acids or chlorine solutions. As such, the odour forming impurities will consequently

be oxidized and washed down to the bottom of the tank.

As for the odorous air that is collected from the emanating structures such as

wastewater pump stations and inlet structures, grit and oil removal chambers and the

mechanical thickening units can be forced by special fans through a plastic media

housed in vertical vessels where the above explained reactions also take place to

remove odor generating substances in the fed air. To facilitate these reactions, the

oxidizing chemicals must be periodically sprinkled on the plastic media (to provide a

large surface area) in the cylindrical tank and the dirty air passing through this media

will have an increased contact surface with the chemicals. The system includes

necessary pumps, instrumentation and process control panel.

However, this option is not considered to be feasible since the WWTP is located away

from residential areas and sensitive receptors. Installing an odor control system to

reduce an insignificant impact (based on site location analysis) will only increase the

rehabilitation cost as well as operation and maintenance cost with little value added.

With growing demand on water due to population increase and the improvement of

their standard of living, the gap between demand and supply increases. The increase

in water demand far exceed the rate of finding additional supplies. Reuse of treated

wastewater reduces the demand and reliability on fresh water resources and

6. ALTERNATIVES

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6.4 NO ACTION ALTERNATIVE

represents a constant ever-increasing source for irrigation. Since Iraq is classified

among the countries of limited water resources and in the water shortage zone, the

importance of reusing the treated effluent from WWTP becomes more significant.

However, this option was not considered because of its relatively high cost for frequent

monitoring of water, soil, and public health, awareness and training to ensure proper

use of the treated effluent.

In the No-Action Alternative, the project is not implemented and the status of quo

persists. As the wastewater treatment system is not functioning currently in Tikrit, direct

discharges of uncontrolled wastewater to the Tigris River and open lands will remain

and increase over time. As a consequence, pollution of surface water will continue to

worsen. Moreover, if nothing is done about the situation, the currently used cesspits

will most likely clog with time and house owners will have to empty those more

frequently thus imposing a financial burden on the population. New houses which will

be built in Tikrit and need to provide cesspits for their wastewater collection thus adding

to the cost of construction.

Knowing that, there is an urgent need for the rehabilitation and reoperation of Al-

Dhebaee WWTP in order to reduce the pollution load that is negatively affecting

residents’ health and causing environmental stresses including deterioration of fresh

water quality, increase in river contamination, and disturbance of fauna and flora

species. Therefore, this alternative is not considered economically, socially and

environmentally feasible.

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7.1 MITIGATION MEASURES DURING CONSTRUCTION

This section outlines the measures required in order to mitigate all impacts identified

in Section 5 as well as ensure proper monitoring. These measures have been included

in an Environmental Management Plan (EMP)

7.1.1 Soils and Water Quality

The contractor should present and abide by a spill prevention and management plan

that includes the following:

Proper handling of chemical and oil on a paved or sealed floor;

Used oil or chemical must be stored in an appropriate area until it is collected and disposed in licensed sites;

A spill response plan including a spill clean-up procedure should be present at the construction site and all workers should be trained in order to implement it in case of accidental spillage;

The reduction in use of chemicals and the regular maintenance of the used vehicles and machines;

A spill collection tank must be installed under generators and specific equipment.

The contractor should ensure during the construction and rehabilitation activities that

the volume of accumulated sludge and debris, destroyed units, exploded concrete

objects will be disposed properly. The contractor must ensure that this type of waste

should not be disposed in the Tigris River or in open areas under any circumstances.

7.1.2 Air Quality

In order to reduce the project’s impact on air quality, the following mitigation measures

must be implemented:

Vehicles, equipment and machinery used during construction and rehabilitation should be regularly maintained;

Catalytic converters should be installed into vehicles and generators. A catalytic converter converts around 90% of hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxides from the engine into less harmful carbon dioxide, nitrogen and water vapor (Taylor, 1984);

Open burning of solid waste must be prohibited;

Loading of raw material including debris should be done in closed areas;

Raw material storage areas should be covered;

As part of a Dust Management Plan, water should be sprinkled in order to suppress dust. During windy weathers, dust generating activities should be stopped;

Onsite surfaces should be paved (the destroyed road parts) in an effort to reduce dust emissions;

7. ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN

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Vehicle speed must be limited on unpaved areas especially within the city perimeter;

Transported material should be covered.

As for odors, frequent inspection and monitoring of wastewater pipes and chemical storage tanks must be done to detect any leakages. In addition, proper ventilation system must be installed in chemical storage areas and in all confined areas.

7.1.3 Noise

In order to reduce and control the noise generated during the construction and

rehabilitation phase, the following mitigation measures must be implemented:

Use muffled and small equipment and machinery whenever possible;

Place noisy equipment and generators as far as possible from working areas;

Equip the generators with noise insulator;

Use temporary noise insulators and barriers (plywood barriers) around excavation areas;

Regular maintenance of all noisy equipment and machinery. This includes changing lubricants, replacing damaged parts, and installing mufflers;

Drilling and excavation activities should be executed only during working hours;

Use hearing protective equipment such as earmuffs during noisy activities such as drilling (OSHA, 2011)


Several mitigation measures can be implemented in an effort to reduce natural

resource depletion and consumption. These measures include:

Reduce water wastage whenever possible;

Harvest rain water and use it as an alternative to fresh water;

Whenever possible, use dry-cleaning instead wet cleaning;

Machinery should be turned off and not left idle for long periods;

Training and awareness should be raised to workers concerning water usage best practices and water conservation;

The light in the site offices must be shut down during the night;

Site offices and the construction must be equipped with awareness sheets on how to use energy in an efficient way;

Machinery and equipment must be turned off when not in use.


The rehabilitation phase will not change the land use of the area since the WWTP is

already constructed. Thus no mitigation measures will be proposed. However, it is

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recommended to preserve natural habitats whenever possible within the WWTP

location.

7.1.6 Biological Environment

In order to reduce the impact on the biological environment including natural habitats,

flora and fauna, the contractor should abide by the measures mentioned above for

noise, air, water and soil pollution prevention measures.


The impact on visual intrusion is considered to be insignificant since the WWTP is

already fenced with a concrete wall. Hence no mitigation measures are required.

7.1.8 Socioeconomic


The construction and rehabilitation of the proposed project is considered to have a

positive impact on the economical profile of the local community. In order to enhance

this impact, priority of hiring should be giving to qualified local residents. However, it is

important to abide by the Labor Law and ensure that workers below 18 years are

prohibited to undertake hazardous work during rehabilitation works such as:

Working with dangerous machines, equipment, or tools requiring a manual intervention or lifting of heavy loads;

exposure to unusual temperatures, noise or to movements harmful to their health;

Working in difficult conditions for long hours or in some conditions during night.

7.1.8.2 Traffic

The contractor should ensure that all the construction activities of the WWTP are not

blocking traffic on the roads of the towns. In addition to proper warning signs, a worker

should be positioned on the road near an active construction area to warn the passing

cars and ensure the traffic is not blocked. The contractor should also ensure that the

transported material and debris by the trucks are well covered.


The contractor should develop and abide by a health and safety plan that covers the

following issues.

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7.1.9.1 Personal Protective Equipment

The contractor should safeguard worker safety from any possible accident or injury.

Workers should wear personal protective equipment (PPE) and the contractor should

supplement the working site by a first aid kit. The contractor should therefore ensure

the following:

Workers should wear hard hats to avoid any potential objects fall or accidental head contact with electrical hazards;

Safety glasses should be worn during the construction phase in order to avoid the exposure to flying particles or harmful chemicals whenever needed;

Workers should wear the right gloves to protect their hands. Different type of gloves could be used according to the undertaken construction activity;

Boots with slip-resistant and puncture-resistant soles should be worn by the workers on construction site. This is essential to protect their feet.

7.1.9.2 Electrical Safety

The electrical activities and working on new and existing hot electrical circuits should be prohibited if power is still turned on;

All frayed, damaged or worn electrical cords or cables should be replaced and flexible cords and cables should be protected from damage;

All electrical tools and equipment should be maintained and checked regularly for any defect;

7.1.9.3 Public and Worker Safety

Local residents’ safety and passers-by should be ensured especially within the city.

Warning signs of construction and rehabilitation should be placed at the external part

of the site and at a distance of 100 meters.

Moreover, before the initiation of the construction activities, the contractor should

prepare an Occupation Health and Safety (OHS) plan in compliance with the World

Bank EHS guidelines with focus on Section 4 (Construction and Decommissioning).

The contractor should also provide qualified personnel in an effort to supervise and

ensure that the workers are abiding by the plan.

Furthermore, in order to reduce the risk of GBV and VAC as much as possible, the

contractor should implement the following prior to project rehabilitation:

Draft Codes of Conduct and the guidelines for a GBV and VAC Action Plan;

All workers including contractor, foreign workers and international consultants should sign codes of conduct;

All workers are committed to prevent and report GBV and VAC within the work site and in its immediate surrounding communities;

Respond to GBV and VAC events as a matter of priority.

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7.2 MITIGATION MEASURES DURING OPERATION

7.1.9.4 Cultural Heritage

The proposed project is located within an area that does not include cultural heritage

and archaeological site. Hence, no mitigation measures are required.


Wastewater Treated by the Plant

Although the treatment plant will enhance the overall water and soil quality in the

region, frequent monitoring of the generated treated wastewater effluent must be done

to ensure the proper functioning of the treatment process. This include regular

microbiological and physiochemical testing. Moreover, a power shortage or operational

failure emergency plan must be set and regularly maintained in order to avoid the

discharge of untreated wastewater directly into the river.

Wastewater Leakages and Chemical Spills

The following mitigation measures must be implemented in order to prevent the

adverse effects of the proposed WWTP on the soil and water quality:

Ensure regular maintenance of WWTP units to detect any leakages;

Install impermeable lining at the base of the drying beds in order to avoid any seepage to the soil layers underneath;

Regular maintenance of the drainage collection system under the sludge drying beds regularly;

Chemical and fuel storage tanks (chlorine, diesel oil, etc.) must be monitored frequently in order to avoid leakages and spills

Chemical and fuel storage tanks must be placed on a paved ground and a collection tank must be installed underneath it. These tanks should be regularly maintained.

Improper Disposal of Sludge and Solid waste

The following mitigation measures must be implemented in order to avoid the

degradation of soil and water quality in the region of the WWTP:

Prohibit the transportation of sludge before the drying process ends;

Prohibit the disposal of dried sludge in open areas;

Prevent the accumulation of the dried sludge on site;

Encourage waste reduction and recycling of office and domestic waste;

Forbid the disposal of office and domestic waste in open areas.

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7.2.2 Air Quality

The following mitigation measures must be implemented in order to ensure that air

quality is not negatively affected by the proposed project:

Long detention times must be prevented through the different treatment processes in an effort to reduce the emission of unpleasant odours;

Establish walk around visits in the WWTP to detect sources of odour.

As for the exhaust air emissions, the following mitigation measures should be

implemented in order to reduce the impact of the proposed project on air quality.

Ensure that the power plant is efficiently combusting the fuel and that emissions are minimized to the extent possible;

Regular maintenance of the power plant must be done.

7.2.3 Noise

Any equipment in the WWTP such as pumps or any source emitting loud noises must

be insulated and equipped with mufflers. Moreover, regular maintenance of all noisy

equipment and machinery including the sludge tankers must be done in order to reduce

the emitted noise.


The proposed project will help in decreasing the rate of over exploitation and

consumption of fresh water for irrigation. On the other hand, workers and staff must be

trained to use fresh water in a responsible way within the WWTP premises (offices,

toilets, worker’s camps, etc.). It is also recommended to use environmental friendly

equipment such as low flow flushers and water saving faucets.

As for energy consumption, regular maintenance of the power plant must be done in

order to ensure that they are functioning in an efficient way. It is also recommended to

use eco-friendly light bulbs in the offices and train the workers on energy consumption

reduction practices.

7.2.5 Biological Environment and Land Resources

The abovementioned measures for noise, air, water and soil pollution prevention must

be implemented in order to reduce the impact on land and biological resources.


Visual intrusion was not considered to be a significant impact since the WWTP to be

rehabilitated is constructed within a fenced plot and far away from residential areas.

As such, no mitigation measures are required.

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7.2.7 Socioeconomic Environment


The operation of the WWTP will offer job opportunities for the local community.

Therefore, priority should be given to qualified local residents. Thus the impact is

considered to be positive and no mitigation measures are required. However, it is

important to abide by the Labor Law and ensure that workers below 18 years are

prohibited to undertake hazardous work during the operation of the treatment plant,

such as:

Working with dangerous machines, equipment, or tools requiring a manual intervention or lifting of heavy loads;

exposure to unusual temperatures, noise or to movements harmful to their health;

Working in difficult conditions for long hours or in some conditions during night.

7.2.7.2 Traffic

During operation of the treatment plant, plant operator and sludge disposal tankers will

use the already existing roads to reach the plant. Hence, slight change in traffic

patterns is anticipated. Therefore, traffic speed limits and signs must be installed in the

treatment plant at the entrance and exit of the plant and at the roads leading to the

plant. Moreover, trucks that are responsible for sludge disposal must be covered.


Employees must wear personal protective equipment onsite during operating hours.

Moreover, employees dealing with critical processes such as the management of

sludge should always wear the protective gear and make sure that they do not have

direct contact with the sludge. In addition, workers should be aware of the different

steps of the sludge management and handling process.

The chemicals used at the WWTP should be stored in a location with properly sealed

floors and well ventilated chambers. Warning signs and Material Safety Data Sheets

(MSDS) for all used chemicals including chlorine gas should be provided around the

site. All workers should wear protective equipment whenever they are handling these

compounds. Proper training should be provided to all workers before they commence

their work, along with periodical safety training. All accidents should be reported and

documented. A designated safety officer at the site should investigate the accidents,

eliminating the causes and preventing such accidents from occurring again.

In addition, the contractor should prepare and abide by an Occupational Health and

Safety Plan complying with World Bank EHS guidelines (Section 2 on Occupational

Health and Safety) to ensure the safety of workers dealing with several units during

the operation of the WWTP.

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7.3 ENVIRONMENTAL MITIGATION PLAN

Furthermore, in order to reduce the risk of GBV and VAC behaviors as much as

possible, the manager should implement the following during the operation phase of

the WWTP:

Draft Codes of Conduct and the guidelines for a GBV and VAC Action Plan;

All workers including contractor, foreign workers and international consultants should sign codes of conduct;

All workers are committed to prevent and report GBV and VAC within the work site and in its immediate surrounding communities;


7.2.9 Cultural Heritage

The impact on the cultural heritage of the region is considered to insignificant; thus no

mitigation measures are required.

Table 7-1 and Table 7-2 present the Environmental Mitigation Plan for the Dhaebee

WWTP during the construction and operation phases respectively. The EMP for the

construction phase should be included in the contractor’s tender documents to ensure

that all requirements have been taken into consideration by them and will be

implemented during the construction phase.

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Table 7-1: Environmental Mitigation Plan during Construction and Rehabilitation Phase

Sources of Impact

Project Activities

Significance

Mitigation Measures

Residual Impacts

Institutional Responsibility

Estimated Cost

(USD)

Air Emissions

Emissions of generators, machinery, trucks or open burning activities

Dust generation from construction and excavation activities

M Use properly maintained equipment

Abide by a dust management plan

Water the ground when extremely windy

Mix material in an enclosed space

Cover material when transporting

Catalytic cyclones and converters must be installed into generators and vehicles

Degradation of air quality

Contractor

2,000

Noise/Odors/Light

Transportation or delivery of raw materials, trucks movement, concrete mixing, drilling, plant construction and operation of heavy vehicle movement such as excavators

Disturbance of nearby areas and animal escape through noise and light

L Maintenance of vehicles and machinery

Minimize noise by insulating machinery through installation of mufflers

Drilling, excavation and any other noisy activity only during working hours

Turn off lights at night

Disturbing of wildlife

Contractor

2,000

Wastewater Generation

Improper disposal of wastewater from workers, water coming from cleaning of machines and equipment

M Installation of a septic tank and collection of the generated wastewater via a tanker

Prohibit the discharge of wastewater into nearby water bodies under any condition

Spill collection tank must be installed under generators and specific equipment

-

Contractor

1,000

Soil Quality

Accidental spills of oils and chemicals on the soil from machines and trucks

Improper disposal of waste

M Prepare and abide by a Spill Prevention & Management Plan

Dispose the generated solid waste is in licensed landfills

-

Contractor

1,500


Improper disposal of solid waste generated from workers and the used materials, removal of destroyed units, construction waste from excavation and drilling activities

L Proper disposal of construction waste

Proper waste management practices

Reuse or recycle the generated waste whenever possible

Train workers on waste reduction procedures

-

Contractor

3,000

Accidental Releases

Leakages from generators, trucks and from transportation of chemicals and oils

M Prepare and abide by a Spill and Accident Prevention Plan

Spill collection tank must be installed under generators and specific equipment

Proper storage of raw material including chemicals and fuel and handling must be on a paved and sealed floor

Used oil or chemical must be stored in an appropriate area until it’s collected and disposed in licensed sites

Regular maintenance of vehicles

Minimize the use of chemicals

Low risk of accidental release resulting in pollution of soil layers and water bodies

Contractor

5,000

Energy Resources

High consumption rates of electricity, fossil fuel, etc.

M Maintenance of the generators and trucks

Light in the site offices shut down during the night

Construction workers must be trained and provided with awareness sheets on efficient energy use

Machinery and equipment must be turned off when not in use

Consumption of electricity and fossil fuel

Contractor

2,000

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Sources of Impact

Project Activities

Significance

Mitigation Measures

Residual Impacts


Estimated Cost

(USD)

Water Resources

High consumption rates of water for construction related activities

Reduction in overall ground and surface water quality due to improper disposal of construction waste

Water pollution due to accidental spill of oils and chemicals

M Use water in the most efficient way and reduce wastage

Harvest rain water and use it as an alternative for fresh water whenever possible

Regular site inspection to detect water leakages

Whenever possible, use dry-cleaning instead wet cleaning

Training and awareness should be raised to workers concerning water usage best practices and water conservation

Proper disposal of construction waste

Consumption of water resources

Low risk of accidental spill leading to water pollution

Contractor

4,000

Land Resources Potential loss of habitats M Protect existing habitats whenever possible - Contractor -

Biological Resources

Habitat disturbance and possible habitat loss M Limit construction activities to working hours

Protect existing habitats whenever possible

Disturbance and loss of habitats

Contractor

-

Socio-economic

Creation of job opportunities for local communities M

Priority hiring to qualified local community Creation of job opportunities

Contractor -

Slight increase in traffic due to the transport of construction materials

Material falling from vehicles during transport may cause traffic accidents or congestion

Potential occurrence of GBV and VAC during project

L Ensure traffic is not blocked during transportation

Place signs near the working areas

Cover transported material

Abide by traffic regulations

Operate well maintained vehicles

Ensure that child labor is prohibited

Introduction of the Code of Conduct to decrease GBV

Employees to sign Codes of Conduct

Prepare GBV and VAC Plans prior to project mobilization

Respond to GBV and VAC events as a matter of priority

-

Contractor

1,500

Visual Intrusion

removal of destroyed units and construction activities

L Adequate fencing around construction sites must be installed whenever possible

Disturbance to the surrounding community and ecosystem

Contractor

2,000


Accident and injuries to workers and public because of construction activities

Dust generation and noise may cause health related problems for workers and disturbance to residents

M Prepare and abide by an OHS plan in compliance with WB EHS guidelines

Workers to wear proper safety gear (PPE)

Presence of first aid kits (at least three) on the construction site

Abide by the storage and handling procedure of the used chemicals according to their MSDS

Place signs near the working areas

Proper management of trucks and heavy machinery entering and exiting the construction site

Low risks of accidents and health effects

Contractor

-

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Table 7-2: Environmental Mitigation Plan during Operation Phase

Sources of Impact

Project Activities

Significance

Mitigation Measures

Residual Impacts


Estimated Cost

(USD)

Air Emissions

Emission of toxic gases from the wastewater treatment plant

M Generator equipped with catalytic converter to ensure that combustion is complete and that emissions are minimized

Install gas detectors in closed spaces in the plants in order to make sure workers are not over exposed to these gases

Plantation of trees as a buffer zone in order to reduce the effect and intensity of emissions

-

WWTP Operator

4,500

Emission of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases from back-up generator

L Regular maintenance of generators

Install solar or renewable energy wherever possible

Contribution to GHG emissions

Odors Odor emitted from wastewater treatment plant disturbing workers and wildlife

M Regularly maintain odor control system

Create a green belt buffer zone around the WWTP

-

WWTP Operator Cost in project

budget


Treatment of wastewater from the towns

Improved water in Tigris River to be used for Irrigation

H Ensure wastewater is in compliance with national standards

Proper operation and maintenance of the WWTP

Prohibit the discharge of untreated wastewater into nearby water bodies

Water treated properly

Tigris River water improved

WWTP Operator

Cost in project

budget


Improper disposal of solid waste from offices

L In offices and on site, solid waste must be disposed in specific bins before collection and disposal

Solid waste must not be disposed in open areas under any conditions and should not be burned onsite

-

WWTP Operator

Cost in project

budget

Improper disposal of sludge and leakages from drying beds may lead to pollution of water or soil

M Prohibit the disposal of the generated sludge in nearby areas

Workers should be aware of health hazards of exposure to sludge and trained on proper hygienic procedure

Drying beds should be equipped with impermeable lining

Workers should wear adequate protective gear when working with sludge

Accidental Releases

Release of diesel and oils from their storage places into the environment

M Ensure the maintenance of all WWTP units in order to avoid any malfunctions or leakages

Chemicals used for water purification in the wastewater treatment plant should be carefully handled and stored.

An impermeable lining should separate chemicals from the ground.

Staff should be trained on proper use and handling of the material

Low risk of leakage to water and soil

WWTP Operator

Cost in project

budget

Energy Resources

Overuse of diesel and oils for operation of generators and treatment plant

M Regular maintenance of generators, pumps and the treatment plant

Use eco-friendly light bulbs in the offices

Train the workers on energy consumption reduction practices

Overconsumption of resources

WWTP Operator

1,500 annually

Water Resources

Overuse of fresh water for toilets in offices

L Use of water efficient plumbing fixtures in offices and ensure a low flow of water in toilets and the use of less water

Train staff on water conservation measures to save water by minimizing its consumption

Pollution of underground water resources

WWTP Operator

5,000 once


Deterioration of biodiversity from the improper disposal of sludge

Disturbance of biodiversity due to the lack of maintenance activities

L Abide by the safe treatment processes of sludge

Regular maintenance of al WWTP units

-

WWTP Operator

-

Socio-economic Creation of job opportunities M Priority to local residents New jobs WWTP Operator -

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Sources of Impact

Project Activities

Significance

Mitigation Measures

Residual Impacts


Estimated Cost

(USD)

Slight increase in traffic due the entrance and exit from the road leading to the treatment plant leading to potential accidents

Potential occurrence of GBV and VAC during project

L Abide by traffic regulations

Ensure that child labor is prohibited

Introduction of the Code of Conduct to decrease GBV

Employees to sign Codes of Conduct

Prepare GBV and VAC Plans prior to project mobilization


Slight increase in traffic

WWTP Operator

2,000 annually


Work related accidents

Exposure of workers to untreated sludge

Health impact from emissions from the facility

Increase of number of insects due to sludge drying beds

M Prepare and abide by an OHS plan in compliance with WB EHS guidelines

Awareness of workers of health hazards and trainings on proper hygienic procedure

Presence of first aid kit

Inform workers of an efficient way to reach medical centers.

Extreme caution when storing and using chemicals. The different chemicals should be stored separately and should never be mixed.

Store and label the chemicals used in an enclosed storage area

Train workers and staff of fire prevention and management procedures

Frequent inspection and maintenance of firefighting equipment

Workers to wear the adequate PPE whenever necessary

Frequent maintenance of PPEs

Low risk on health related problems and accident occurrence

WWTP Operator

4,000 annually

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Continuous monitoring during both construction and operation of the project will be

required to ensure the effectiveness of the proposed mitigation measures. Through

sound environmental management and implementation of a monitoring plan, Al

Dhebaee WWTP will avoid incurring the major adverse impacts. The aims of the

monitoring plan are:

Verify the environmental impacts predicted in the EIA study;

Determine project compliance with national and international requirements and standards;

Monitor the performance of the project and the effectiveness of mitigation measures;

Take remedial action if unexpected problems and unanticipated impacts arise;

Improve wastewater management and environmental control.

7.4.1 Monitoring Plan Implementation

To ensure implementation of the plan during construction, the following staff should be

appointed on site by the Supervision Engineer at all times, with an estimated cost of

US$ 15,000 per month:

Accident Prevention Officer

Health, Safety and Environmental Officer

In order to properly implement the monitoring plan during operation, suitable

equipment and technical skills are required. These are necessary to ensure the proper

implementation of all proposed mitigations activities that this report recommends.

Ideally, the WWTP should have day to day monitoring staff capable of carrying out

these monitoring activities. The monitoring plan should be implemented by the WWTP

Operator.

Specialists in the following fields will be required to carry out the monitoring plan

effectively, at an estimated cost of US$ 15,000 per month.

Health and safety officer;

Environmental specialist.

7.4.2 Documentation and Reporting

7.4.2.1 During Construction

During the rehabilitation and construction phase, regular monitoring results must be

documented in order to track and analyze the frequency of potential impacts and

accidents that might occur. The project supervision engineer is responsible for the

7.4 MONITORING PLAN

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reporting and establishing a comprehensive database for all monitoring activities. The

report must include key indicators such as:

Type of the activity monitored;

Date of monitoring and weather conditions;

Photographic documentation;

Name of the person that is conducting the monitoring;

Method of monitoring (sampling, visual inspection, …);

Number and type of samples;

Results of the monitoring (concentrations, accidents, frequency, etc.);

Mitigation measures undertaken.

After documenting, the supervision engineer must submit the reports to the Ministry of

Construction, Housing, Municipalities and Public Works/Directorate of Sewerage,

MOE and WB on a quarterly basis.

7.4.2.2 During Operation

Quarterly environmental monitoring reports should be prepared to analyze the

collected data, assess monitoring activities and provide recommendations to ensure

the effectiveness of the overall environmental monitoring and management plan

throughout the project life span. The report should be submitted to the Ministry of

Construction, Housing, Municipalities and Public Works/Directorate of Sewerage,

MOE and WB.

The WWTP operator is responsible for performing water tests and analysis and

continuous monitoring of the WWTP performance. Water tests are performed at the

inlet and outlet of the WWTP in order to deduce the performance of the plant. After

conducting these tests and obtaining results, the operator should report these findings

to the MOE. The report will consist of two parts: a comprehensive report and a process

monitoring report. The comprehensive report will be generated to present the results

of the monitoring activities and evaluate the adequacy of environmental control

measures and will include:

Name of the treatment plant, location, reporting period and number of process cycles during the reporting period;

Basic information of the WWTP capacity, served towns, estimation of the quantity of the treated wastewater;

Information about sludge handling and final disposal;

Original measurements for wastewater, air emissions and other parameters indicated in the plan;

Sampling locations;

Time of sampling;

Data analysis.

Table 7-3 and Table 7-4 show the Environmental Monitoring Plans for the construction

and operation phases.

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Table 7-3: Environmental Monitoring Plan for the Construction Phase

Impacts

Monitoring Activity

Parameters to Monitor

Frequency

Monitoring Location

Number of Samples


Cost (USD)

Air Emissions/GHG

Visual inspection of equipment used

Ensure active dust management plan

Visual inspection of dust emissions

Dust (PM)

Daily

Throughout the project area

-

Supervision Engineer

1,500

Noise/Odors

Inspection of construction plans and that mufflers are installed on noisy equipment

Monitor excavation hours

Ensure workers are wearing ear protection gear

Noise Levels

Weekly

Around the

WWTP site

One sample per

location


500


Monitoring the different drilling and construction activities

Effluent from construction activities (Concrete mixing, dust minimizing, washing of equipment…)

Daily

Throughout the project area

-


2,500


Ensure active solid waste management plan

Construction and demolition waste

Waste of the workers on site

Daily

Collection points present on sites

-


1,500

Accidental Releases Ensure active spill prevention and management plan

Chemicals, oils and

fuel spill incidents

Daily

Active construction sites

-


1,500

Energy Resources Inspection of the quantities and types of the used fuel and oils

Fuel and Oil consumption Monthly Fuel and oils purchase bills - Supervision Engineer No additional

cost

Water Resources

Inspection of water quantities

Monitoring the different drilling and construction activities

Ensure active spill and accident prevention plan

Water consumption needed for the different construction activities

Spill incidents

Monthly

Water purchase bills

-


No additional cost

Land Resources

Check the infrastructure locations and that excavation works do not interfere with it

Underground infrastructure

Daily

In location where excavation and drilling is planned

-


No additional cost

Biological Resources Site observation and identification of natural habitats

Natural habitat and existing species

During rehabilitation phase Rehabilitation site - Supervision Engineer No additional

cost

Socio-Economic

Check traffic conditions during transportation of materials

Ensure traffic is not blocked

Ensure all safety precautions are abided by

Traffic observation and possible complaints

On the roads leading to the project sites (local and agricultural roads)

On local and agricultural roads leading to the site

-


No additional cost

Health Safety Hazards

Ensure signs are in place before works begin

Ensure that the OHS plan is being implemented

Visual inspections to ensure that all workers are wearing their PPEs

Recorded injuries and accidents

Daily

On the WWTP site

-


No additional

cost

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Table 7-4: Environmental Monitoring Plan for the Operation Phase

Impacts

Monitoring Activity

Parameters to Monitor

Frequency

Monitoring Location

Number of Samples


Cost (USD)

Air Emissions/GHG

Ensure plantations of trees as a buffer zone around the WWTP

Ensure regular maintenance of power plant and frequent emission testing

Pollutant emissions (SOx, NOx, CO)

Annually

Exhaust Stacks of power plant

One sample per stack

WWTP operators

3,000

Odors

Ensure the maintenance of treatment plant and odor control system

Observation of odors through walk around the plant

Emanating odors

Weekly

The operating WWTP

-

WWTP operators No additional

cost

Noise

Monitor noise during operation of the WWTP

Noise emitted from treatment plant

Weekly

The operating WWTP

-

WWTP operators No additional cost

Wastewater generation Perform wastewater tests

BOD, COD, TSS, Cl2 Daily Influent and effluent points Two sample from each location WWTP operators No additional

cost


Ensure solid waste is collected and disposed into a licensed dumpsite

Solid waste generated from offices and from operation of WWTP

Monthly

Collection bins and the final disposal in the dumpsite

-


cost

Ensure drying beds are operational and sludge is not being accumulated onsite

Sludge generated from drying beds

Weekly Sludge drying beds WWTP operators No additional

cost

Accidental Releases Ensure fuel and chemicals are properly stored

Releases of chemicals Monthly Around the treatment plant - WWTP operators No additional

cost

Energy Resources Inspection of quantities of used oils and fuel

Fuel and oil consumption Monthly Fuel and oils purchase bills - WWTP operators No additional

cost


Ensure the safe treatment processes of sludge

Site observation of the existing natural habitats and species

Annually

WWTP’s surroundings

-

WWTP operators

No additional cost

Visual intrusion Ensure mitigation measures are effective

Site observation Annually WWTP’s surroundings - WWTP operators No additional

cost

Socio-Economic Ensure traffic is not blocked near the WWTP

Complaints from the increase in traffic

Upon complaint WWTP’s surroundings - WWTP operators No additional

cost

Health Safety Hazards

Supervise workers in the site and ensure they are abiding by safety measures

Recorded injuries and accidents

Weekly

Within WWTP site

-


cost

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7.4.3 Guidelines for Health and Safety Plan during Construction

An effective Occupational Health and Safety Plan, in line with World Bank guidelines,

for construction should include at least the following components:

Proper signage in and around the site;

Fire-fighting measures;

Guard rails and toe boards on all openings and edges;

Proper storage and signage of materials including Material Safety Data Sheets;

Safety measures during demolition works;

Safety measures according to type of equipment;

Train workers on lifting and material handling techniques;

Plan work site layout to reduce the need for manual transfer of heavy objects,

Select tools and design work stations that minimize force requirements and holding times,

Personal safety equipment;

Medical services which includes medical examination for all workers, first aid kit and personnel, and keeping logs of all medical records;

Fencing around the construction site at all times;

Sanitary facilities (toilet with shower, washing basin, urinal);

Sanitary facilities to be covered, easily accessible, ventilated, well lit, maintained, and sanitized;

Safe drinking water in accordance with regulations.

All construction staff should be trained on the Health & Safety Plan and the specific

safety measures related to their own activities.

7.4.4 Guidelines for Health and Safety Plan during Operation

Working staff, including engineers, operators, and supervisors will be subjected to

potential common occupational health and safety hazards during the daily operation

and maintenance of Al Dhebaee WWTP. An effective Occupational Health and Safety

Plan, in line with World Bank guidelines, for the operation of the WWTP should include

the following:

Use fall protection equipment when working at heights

Maintain work areas to reduce slipping

Clean up leakages and spills regularly

Implement a training program for operators who work with chlorine and other chemicals concerning safe handling practices and emergency response plans;

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Provide appropriate personal protective equipment such as self-contained breathing apparatus and training on its proper use and maintenance

Install safety showers and eye wash stations in close proximity to the chlorine equipment and other areas where hazardous chemicals are stored or used

Monitor regularly the air quality within the WWTP to avoid hazardous conditions such as explosions and, oxygen deficiency from occurring

Designate specific areas for eating, smoking, and drinking

Integrate job rotations and rest or stretch breaks within the work process

Implement good house-keeping practices

Locate electrical cords and ropes in common area

7.4.5 Guidelines for Sludge Management during Operation

In order to adequately manage sludge resulting from the operation of the WWTP, the

drying beds should operate in accordance to the design.

Staff should take into consideration the following recommendations in order to properly

manage sludge drying beds:

The staff must ensure that the sludge is transported to an adequate depth of the drying bed and it should not be filled to the brim.

The flow of the media should be continuously inspected. The staff should check if it is filtering clear liquid that could be observed from the underdrainage system. If liquid is not clear or if no drainage is observed the staff should inform the water establishment.

Once dried, sludge should be removed carefully in order not to disturb the top sand layer on the drying bed.

Proper handling and transportation must be ensured. This includes:

- Safety training program for workers, safe handling and personal hygiene practices to reduce exposure to pathogens and vectors

- Regular sludge management training sessions must be conducted; - Use vacuum trucks or tugs for removal of sludge instead of manual

methods; - Vehicles transporting the sludge must be covered; - Provide and require use of suitable personal protective clothing and

equipment such as rubber gloves, aprons, and boots to prevent contact with sludge

- Provide shower and change clothes areas for workers before leaving work and provide laundry service for work clothes.

- Long onsite storage periods must be prohibited;

- Workers must take the adequate vaccines on a regular basis.

Dried sludge must be monitored for its infectious and hazardous parameters before disposal.

Disposal of dried sludge in open dumps must be prohibited under any condition

The site of sludge disposal must be selected based on scientific and social agreement between municipalities and MOE

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Sludge disposal site must be equipped with geo-membrane lining if groundwater is present and a leachate collection system.

Finally, sludge could be disposed safely.

7.4.6 Emergency Response Plan

The WWTP operator should develop and implement an Emergency Response Plan to

ensure that the treatment plant management meets the requirement in developing,

maintaining, and reporting emergency preparedness and resource activities to provide

protection to human health, public welfare and the environment. The plan should be

available in case of emergency as part of the monitoring plan. The purpose of the plan

is to:

Ensure the effective management of emergency efforts involved in preparing for and responding to situations associated with emergencies;

Prevent or minimize toxic air emissions released to the environment;

Reduce the probability of human injury;

Prevent or minimize exposure to the operator or other support or maintenance personnel;

Assist response personnel in determining and performing proper remedial actions quickly and limit potential loss or damage;

Reduce the magnitude of environmental and other impacts.

This plan would mainly be focused on setting various emergency scenarios along with

a specific response plan for each situation. It should be comprehensive, clear and

concise. The roles and responsibilities of the staff should be clearly defined, areas of

risk and hazard should be predetermined, and procedures for dealing with a release

should be clearly outlined. An emergency plan for the wastewater treatment will include

the following elements:

A description of the overall strategy of the plan (before, during, and after an emergency) and provide background information to the employees.

How to report fires and other emergencies, emergency evacuation procedures and route assignments, procedures to be followed by the staff who remain to conduct some critical functions before they evacuate, and procedures to account for personal after emergency evacuation;

A comprehensive list of site activities and associated risks to assist in assessing the expected type, frequency, and size of product releases that could occur;

A response organization chart that identifies the on-site coordinator and emergency response personnel and clearly indicates their roles and responsibilities;

Names and phone numbers of persons who can be contacted for further information on the emergency plan;

Continuous training programs for operational and staff.

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7.5.1 Training

In the context of the proposed project, all engineers, staff and workers who will be

involved in the operation of the various components of the project as well as WWTP

personnel who will be involved in monitoring activities are required to attend an

environmental training course (wastewater management, health and safety issues)

prior to the handover of the WWTP.

The main objective of the training is to:

Meet regulatory requirements in capacity development in support of

wastewater management at Al-Dhebaee WWTP;

Develop technical and administrative procedures for handling sludge;

Establish a continuous improvement process for safety;

Ensure that staff knows and understands the potential risks associated with wastewater treatment and sludge;

Ensure a safe and healthy working environment for staff involved in wastewater treatment by effectively managing work-associated hazards;

Enhance knowledge and skills of managers and employees, enabling them to perform their responsibilities in the areas of health and safety.

Training programs must be incorporated with a feedback loop to ensure their relevance

and acceptance by staff and will be reviewed periodically and updated when

necessary. The implementation of the training programs will raise awareness to Tikrit

WWTP operators in the following topics:

Environmental laws, regulations, and standards;

Wastewater management Plan;

Occupational hazard and personal protective equipment;

Emergency response and chemical spills;

Sampling techniques and environmental monitoring guidelines;

Risks associated with handling of untreated sludge;

Risks associated with floods in case of river flood;

Pollution health impacts and prevention measures;

Instructions on the use of protective clothing while handling sludge;

Operating procedures at the facility (Incident Reporting and Investigation);

Fire safety.

7.5 INSTITUTIONAL SETUP AND CAPACITY BUILDING

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The purpose of a grievance mechanism is to ensure that all feedback and complaints

received from stakeholders, customers, employees, contractor staff and the public in

general are documented, considered and addressed in an acceptable and timely

manner.

A formal grievance mechanism allows for complaints to be made in person, in writing,

by telephone or online (Annex 2). This mechanism should be adopted during both the

rehabilitation and operation phases. The person responsible for receiving and following

up on grievances is the Health, Environment and Safety Officer. Complaints received

should be summarized and listed in a log book, containing the name/group of

commenter/complainant, date the comment was received, brief description of issues,

information on proposed corrective actions to be implemented (if appropriate) and the

date of response sent to the commenter/complainant. A summary of the grievance log

should be presented to the General Authority for Sewerage and Water annually.

In case of a complaint, the HSE officer will confirm receipt of the grievance within 5

days, decide whether it is a valid complaint is considered relevant. The

contractor/operator should commit to respond within 15 days of receipt of grievance.

The grievance procedure should be posted on the WWTP premises, visible to the

public at all time. Confidentiality is guaranteed to all individuals upon their request. The

contact information for making grievances should be that of the Health, Environment

and Safety Officer.

Figure 7-1 presents a detailed flowchart describing the process of grievance starting

form reception of grievance to implementation of corrective measures.

7.6 GRIEVANCE REDRESS MECHANISM

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Acknowledge all complaints with 7 days.

Figure 7-1: Flowchart for Processing Grievances

Grievance received (in verbal or written format)

Record the date in the Grievance Register

YES NO

Immediate action enough to satisfy

complaint

Record the date in the Register

Identify any long-term corrective action required

Inform complainant of the proposed corrective action or

clarify why action is not required within 30 days

Inform complainant of corrective action

Implement the corrective action and carry out the follow-up of

the corrective action

Record the date. Close the case.

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A public consultation session was held at the Salah El-Denn Sewerage Directorate on

June 17, 2019. The session was attended by 30 participants who included engineers,

teachers and local residents The purpose of the hearing was to inform the residents

and stakeholders about the proposed rehabilitation of the WWTP and its different

components and to document their concerns and feedback.

During the public consultation, a brief description of the WWTP and its components

was presented to the attendees along with the potential environmental issues related

to the proposed project. Moreover, an environmental impact matrix was distributed to

the participants to be filled out. It included environmental, social, health and safety

issues that may be relevant to the proposed project during construction and operation.

The results of the questionnaire showed positive feedback from the local community

regarding the rehabilitation and reoperation of the WWTP. The response on most of

the questions was that the project will positively impact water quality in the region and

that the overall health of the community will be enhanced as a result of treating the

wastewater before discharge. The attendees also agreed that the proposed

rehabilitation project will encourage more development projects in the area and will

offer job opportunities to the local community during both the construction and

operation phases. Some pictures that were taken during the public participation are

presented below (Error! Reference source not found.). As for the list of attendees a

nd the filled questionnaires, they are attached in the Annex of the report.

8. PUBLIC CONSULTATION

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Figure 8-1: Photos Taken during the Public Consultation

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The study shows that most of the impacts of the project during rehabilitation and

construction are temporary and can be minimized with proper mitigation. However,

during the rehabilitation phase, the impacts that are of major concerns are those

related to the health and safety of the works. Moreover, another major issue that is

associated with such rehabilitation projects is the removal and disposal of debris and

destroyed units. However, adequate mitigation measures were stated in order to safely

dispose these material.

Another major issue of concern is that of proper operation and maintenance of the

treatment plant to ensure an adequate level of treatment of the wastewater before

discharge into the river, as well as sludge before applying them onto agricultural areas.

This will require a commitment to regular monitoring and inspection of different

wastewater process. Moreover, continuous training programs must be conducted

during the operation of the plant and all WWTP units must be regularly maintained.

If all these conditions are met, it is likely that the overall environmental and social

impact of this treatment plant will be positive.

It is worth mentioning that this project will end the uncontrolled discharge of wastewater

into Tigris River without any prior treatment. Hence the operation of the WWTP will

contribute in reducing sources of pollution that are degrading surface water quality,

thus limiting its final usage (irrigation, industrial …).

9. SUMMARY AND CONCLUSIONS

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10. REFERENCES

Al-Jebouri, M. M., & Edham, M. H. (2012). An assessment of biological pollution in certain sector of Lower Al-Zab and River Tigris waters using bacterial indicators and related factors in Iraq. Journal of Water Resource and Protection, 4(01), 32.

Al-Rawi, S. M. (2005). Contribution of Man–Made Activities to the Pollution of the Tigris within Mosul Area/IRAQ. International journal of environmental research and public health, 2(2), 245-250.

dos Santos, C. P., da Silva, S. R., & Cerqueira, C. A. (2015). Water consumption in construction sites in the city of recife/PE. Electronic Journal of Geotechnical Engineering, 20(7), 1711-1726.

Ministry of Construction, Housing, Municipalities & Public Works. (2017). Emergency Operation Development Projects. Environmental and Social Management Plan (ESMP) For the AL-AWJA - OWAINAT WATER TREATMENT PLANT IN SALAH ALDIN GOVERNORATE.

Iraqi Ministry of Environment. (2014). 5th National Report to the Convention on Biological Diversity.

(Pa. DEP) Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection. (2016). Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Certification Training. Module 5: Disinfection and Chlorination.

ReFAATO. Reconstruction Fund of the Areas Affected by the Terrorist Operations (ND). Environmental and Social Management Framework (ESMF)

Transport Global Practice (GGITR) and the Gender Group (GTGDR) (2018). Good Practice Note: Addressing Gender Based Violence in Investment Project Financing involving Major Civil Works. Retrieved from: http://documents.worldbank.org/curated/en/399881538336159607/Environment-and- Social-Framework-ESF-Good-Practice-Note-on-Gender-based-Violence-English.pdf

UNDP. United Nations Development Programme (2005). Iraq Living Conditions Survey 2004 Volume III: Socio-economic Atlas of Iraq.

http://documents.worldbank.org/curated/en/399881538336159607/Environment-and-Social-Framework-ESF-Good-Practice-Note-on-Gender-based-Violence-English.pdf

http://documents.worldbank.org/curated/en/399881538336159607/Environment-and-Social-Framework-ESF-Good-Practice-Note-on-Gender-based-Violence-English.pdf

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ANNEXES

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ANNEX 1: LIST OF ATTENDEES AND SAMPLE QUESTIONNAIRE MATRIX

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Ministry of Construction & Housing & Municipalise & Public Works Al-Dhebaee WWTP Tikrit District, Salah El-din Governorate Revised Environmental and Social Assessment Report

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A-LIST OF ATTENDEES

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B-SAMPLE OF QUESTIONNAIRE DURING CONSTRUCTION

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C- SAMPLE OF QUESTIONNAIRE DURING OPERATION

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ANNEX 2: GRIEVANCE FORM

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Reference No:

Full Name

Contact Information

Please mark how you wish to be contacted (mail, telephone, e-mail).

By Post: Please provide mailing address:

By Telephone:

By E-mail

Preferred Language for communication

Arabic

English

Description of Incident or Grievance: What happened? Where did it happen? Who did it happen to? What is the result of the problem?

Date of Incident/Grievance

One time incident/grievance (date )

Happened more than once (how many times? )

On-going (currently experiencing problem)

What would you like to see happen to resolve the problem?

Signature:

Date:

Please return this form to: [name], Health and Safety Manager, [company name],

Address : Tel.:

or E-mail: @ .com .

mailto:[email protected]

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