Final Environmental Management Programme for the … Farm... · Final Environmental Management...

Final Environmental Management Programme for the proposed establishment of a poultry farm and its associated infrastructure on portion 106 and 108 of Farm Elandsfontein 334IQ Walkerville, Midvaal Local

Municipality, Sedibeng District, Gauteng Province

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FINAL ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PROGRAMME FOR THE PROPOSED ESTABLISHMENT OF A

POULTRY FARM (EGG PRODUCTION) AND ASSOCIATED INFRASTUCTURE ON PORTION 106 AND 108

OF FARM ELANDSFONTEIN 334IQ, WALKERVILLE, MIDVAAL LOCAL MUNICIPALITY, SEDIBENG

DISTRICT, GAUTENG PROVINCE

GDARD REFERENCE NO: 002/14-15/0174

PROPONENT: THUMO ACRES

MARCH 2015



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ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT PRACTITIONER DETAILS: TSHIKOVHA ENVIRONMENTAL AND

COMMUNICATION CONSULTING

Contact Person: Mr. Moudy Mudzielwana

Physical Address: 747 Park Street

Arcadia, Pretoria

0002

Telephone: 012 343 9820

Fax Number: 086 600 1016

Email: [email protected]

PROJECT APPLICANT: THUMO ACRESS

Contact Person: Nobesuthu Sinyongwana

Postal Address: P.O. Box 1547

Meyerton

1960

Telephone: 010 230 0093

Fax: 086 514 1308

Cell Number: 073 212 5900

Email: [email protected]



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Quality Control

Compiled By Reviewed By Approved By

Name Vutlharhi Ngobeni Kealeboga Mmutle Gift Mutonhere

Designation EAP Environmental Unit

Manager

Operational Manager

Signature

Date March 2015 March 2015 March 2015

COPYRIGHT RESERVED

This technical report has been produced for Thumo Acres. The intellectual property contained in this

report remains vested in Tshikovha Environmental and Communication Consulting. No part of the

report may be produced in any manner without written permission from Tshikovha Environmental and

Communication Consulting or Thumo Acres.



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Glossary

“Corrective action” Action taken to correct a detected non-conformity

“Cradle-to-Grave” A policy of controlling Hazardous Waste from its inception to its ultimate

disposal.

“Duty of care” This requires that any person who generates, transports, treats or disposes of

waste must ensure that there is no unauthorised transfer or escape of waste from his control. Such

a person must retain documentation describing both the waste and any related transactions. In this

way he retains responsibility for the waste generated or handled.

“Environment” Surroundings in which an organization operates, including air, water, land, natural

resources, flora, fauna, humans and their interrelation

“Environmental management system” A tool that systemizes the way an organization goes

about its environmental business and demand yearly improvements on targets set by the company

“Environmental performance criteria” Environmental objective, target or any other intended level

of environmental performance set by the management of the organisation and used for the purpose

of environmental performance evaluation

“Environmental performance evaluation” Process to facilitate management decisions regarding

an organisation’s environmental performance by selecting indicators, collecting and analysing data,

assessing information against environmental performance criteria, reporting and communicating

and periodically reviewing and improving this process

“Environmental performance indicator” Specific expression that provides information about an

organization’s environmental performance

“Environmental Policy” Statement by the organization of its intentions and principles in relation to

its overall environmental performance that provides a framework for action and the setting of

environmental objectives and targets

“General waste” The generic term for waste that if properly managed does not pose an immediate

threat to man or the environment. It may comprise of the following:



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o Clean building rubble (no contamination with any hazardous waste e.g. asbestos or used oil

etc.)

o Garden refuse

o Domestic waste

o Plastic

o Timber

o Scrap steel

o Rubber

o Glass

o Paper, cardboard

“Generator” An industry or company whose activities result in the production of waste. The

responsibility for a Hazardous Waste remains from cradle-to-grave with the Generator of the waste and

the Generator is held liable for any damage that the waste may cause to humans or to the environment.

“Hazardous waste” Waste that has the potential, even in low concentrations, to have a significant

adverse effect on public health and the environment because of its inherent toxicological, chemical and

physical characteristics. It may comprise of the following:

o Used batteries and some degreasers (contain acids and alkali’s)

o Waste containing asbestos fibres/products

o Oily waste (used oil rags, filters, drums, oil contaminated soil)

o Used grease

o Left-over paints, solvents and resins (and empty containers)



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o Sewerage sludge

o Redundant chemicals

o Lead, nickel, cadmium (heavy metals) found in electrical/electronic appliances

o Mercury (heavy metal) found in fluorescent tubes and other electrical appliances.

o Pesticides, insecticides, fertilisers, herbicides and their containers.

“Impact” Any change to the environment, whether harmful or beneficial, wholly or partially resulting

from the organisation’s environmental aspects

“Integrated Waste Management Approach” (also referred to as the waste management hierarchy) :

o prevent and avoid the production of a waste by applying the “cradle-to-grave” principle (where

possible) e.g. bulk procurement of goods or sending packaging back to suppliers;

o minimise or reduce the volume of a waste or the hazard rating (in the case of hazardous waste

by for example purchasing less hazardous materials);

o resource recovery by recycling of waste or the recovery of energy from that waste’;

o treatment of waste to reduce the volume or hazardousness;

o as a last resort the safe disposal of waste so that it will not pollute the environment or cause

health hazards

“Non-compliance”: Non fulfilment of a requirement or legislation.

“Objective” Overall goal that the organisation sets itself to achieve, which may be quantitative, but

because it is overall, is usually expressed in qualitative terms.

“Poultry’’ is the raising of domesticated birds such as chickens, turkeys, ducks, and geese, for the

purpose of farming meat or eggs for food. Poultry are farmed in great numbers with chickens being the

most numerous. Chickens raised for eggs are usually called layers while chickens raised for meat are

often called broilers.’’

“Preventative action” Action taken to prevent or eliminate the cause of a potential non-conformity

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

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

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Turkey_(domesticated)

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

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

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

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

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

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



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“Recycle” The use, re-use or reclamation of a material so that it re-enters the industrial process rather

than becoming a waste

“SANS” The South African National Standard

“Sustainable development” Development that meets the needs of the present without compromising

the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.

“Target” Detailed or specific performance requirement, which is quantified where possible that needs to

be met in order to achieve the objectives. The target will be quantitative in order that performance

against can be measured.

“Waste” An undesirable or superfluous by-product, emission, or residue of any process or activity

which has been discarded, accumulated or stored for the purpose of discarding or processing. It may be

gaseous, liquid or solid or any combination thereof. And may originate from a residential, commercial or

industrial area. This definition excludes industrial waste water, sewage, radioactive substances, and

mining, metallurgical and power generation waste. Government Gazette No. 12703, August 1990.

“Waste stream” A continuous flow of waste from an industry, activity, process or group



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Table of Contents

1. BACKGROUND ............................................................................................................................................ 10

1.1. PURPOSE AND OBJECTIVES OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PROGRAMME .................. 10

1.2 STRUCTURE OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PROGRAMME ..................................... 11

2. Details and Experience of the EAPs who compiled the Environmental Management Programme .............. 12

2.1 Why EMPr? .............................................................................................................................................. 15

2.2 Guideline to EMPr ............................................................................................................................... 16

3. LEGAL CONSIDERATIONS ........................................................................................................................ 21

3.1 Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996(Act No. 108 of 1996) ............................................ 21

3.2 National Environmental Management Act, 1998 (Act No. 107 of 1998) .............................................. 21

3.3 National Environmental Management Waste Act (Act No. 59 of 2008) ............................................... 22

3.4 National Waste Management Strategy (1999) ..................................................................................... 23

3.5 National Water Act, (Act No. 36 of 1998) ............................................................................................. 23

3.6 National Health Act (Act No.61 of 2003) .............................................................................................. 24

3.7 The National Environmental Air Quality Act (Act No. 39 of 2004) ........................................................ 25

3.8 Conservation of Agriculture Resources (Act No. 43 of 1983) .............................................................. 25

3.9 Occupational Health and Safety, (Act No. 85 of 1993) ........................................................................ 25

3.10 Integrated Environmental Management (IEM) ..................................................................................... 26

4 RESPONSIBILITIES .................................................................................................................................... 27

5 PROJECT DESCRIPTION AND LOCATION ............................................................................................... 29

5.1 Project Location ................................................................................................................................... 29

5.2 Project Description .............................................................................................................................. 29

6 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT MEASURES ....................................................................................... 31

Figure 5 Mitigation measures for the operational phase of the development ............................................... 43

7. Conclusion.................................................................................................................................................... 61

8. References ................................................................................................................................................... 62

List of figures

Figure 1 Showing environmental management circle ........................................................................................... 19

Figure 2 Locality Map ............................................................................................................................................ 29

Figure 3 Pre - planning phase environmental specifications ................................................................................. 32

Figure 4 Mitigations measures for the construction phase of the proposed development. ................................... 37



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Figure 5 Mitigation measures for the operational phase of the development ........................................................ 43

Figure 6 Mitigation measures for decommissioning phase ................................................................................... 52

Figure 7 Environmental Guidelines ...................................................................................................................... 55



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1. BACKGROUND

Thumo Acres (the Applicant) intends to construct a new poultry farm (egg production) on portion 106 and 108 of

Farm Elandsfontein 334IQ, Sedibeng Municipality, Gauteng Province. The proposed development is listed in

terms of the Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations of 2010 (Government Notice R544) under Chapter 5

of the National Environmental Management Act 107 of 1998 and therefore requires an Environmental Impact

Assessment (EIA) to be undertaken. This document serves to meet the requirements of Gauteng Department of

Agriculture and Rural Development (GDARD), who require an Environmental Management Programme (EMPr)

that indicates the environmental mitigation measures for the development as part of the Environmental Impact

Assessment (EIA) process. The EMPr deals with the design, construction, operational and decommissioning

phases of the development and its associated environment, which will require management to maintain or

improve the quality of the environment as well as activities on site which may have potentially negative impacts

on the environment. Although this document provides guidelines as to how these aspects should be managed, it

should be seen as an open ended document which requires regular review and updating, as new information

becomes available in order for it to remain relevant to the requirements of the site and the environment.

Tshikovha Environmental and Communication Consulting have compiled this Environmental Management

Programme (EMPr) for the proposed development of the poultry farm (egg production). This document considers

the impacts that are likely to arise from the implementation of the project and the mechanisms that are

recommended to minimise the severity of these impacts. The EMPr covers the principles, responsibilities and

requirements applicable in order to implement effective environment management, during all the phases of the

project’s implementation.

1.1. PURPOSE AND OBJECTIVES OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PROGRAMME

The main driving force behind the compilation of this EMPr is to outline measures that are to be implemented in

order to minimise adverse environmental impacts that are either; direct, indirect or cumulative associated with the

development of the proposed poultry farm. This is done by encouraging good management practices through

planning and commitment of environmental issues and complying all applicable laws, regulations, standards and

guidelines for the protection of the environment. The EMPr serves as a guide for contractors and employees on

their roles and responsibilities concerning environmental management on site. Furthermore, it provides a

framework for environmental monitoring throughout the development’s life cycle.

This document provides appropriate mitigation measures designed to minimise or eliminate the significant

adverse impacts that may be caused as a result of the proposed project and to also enhance positive impacts.

Objectives of the EMPr

The EMPr aims to achieve the following objectives:



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To provide a structure or framework within the environmental management requirements which will be

implemented, audited and reported on, in order to ensure that potential impacts on the environment are

minimized.

To set out the mitigation measures and environmental specifications which are required to be

implemented during various phases of the development in order to minimize the extent of environmental

impacts, to manage environmental impacts and where possible to improve the condition of the

environment.

To state standards and guidelines that are required to be achieved in terms of environmental legislation

and authorization conditions.

To provide a clear indication of the environmental management requirements of each of the role players

involved.

1.2 STRUCTURE OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PROGRAMME

It is intended to be an overview document that specifies the on-site environmental management philosophy of

the proposed poultry farm and the organisational structure necessary to achieve that vision. In addition, it

specifies common environmental management and monitoring principles that will be applied to all aspects of the

proposed project.

The EMPr provides mitigation and management measures for the following phases of the project

Planning Phase

This section of the EMPr incorporates pro-active environmental management measures with the goal of attaining

sustainable development which can be achieved during this phase. Pro-active environmental measures help

minimize the chance of negative impacts occurring. Necessary corrective actions are proposed to further limit

potential impacts. The planning phase should include measures that will dictate how the proposed activities

should be carried out.

Construction phase

This section of the EMPr provides management principles for the construction phase of the project.

Environmental actions, procedures and responsibilities as required within the construction phase are specified.

This specification will form part of the contract documentation and, therefore, the contractor will be required to

comply with the specifications to the satisfaction of the Site Manger in terms of the construction contract.



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Operation and maintenance phase

This section provides management for the operational and maintenance phase of the project. Environmental

actions, procedures and responsibilities as required within these phases are specified. Through taking pro-active

measures during the design and planning phases as well as the construction phase; potential environmental

impacts originating during the operational phase can be minimized or even prevented.

Decommissioning phase

Decommissioning takes place once the poultry farm is no longer serving the purpose for which it was constructed

for, or if it may have deteriorated over the duration of its operation thus making decommissioning a feasible

option.

2. Details and Experience of the EAPs who compiled the Environmental Management Programme

Moudy Mudzielwana,

Director, Tshikovha

Environmental and

Communication

Consulting

Moudy Mudzielwana has Bachelor of Environmental Science Degree obtained

from the University of Venda. He is a fully member of IAIASA and IWMSA. He

was involved in the following projects: Development of General Waste Facilities

Standards, Gauteng Department of Agriculture , Conservation and Environment,

Capacity building on waste management for 91 local municipalities, Development

of an integrated Waste Management Plan for Amajuba District Municipality, Basic

Assessment for 46 sites in Motheo District Municipality, Environmental Basic

Assessment for Transnet Yard Lighting, Environmental Scoping Impact

Assessment for Tokologo Bulk Water Supply, Environmental Scoping Impact

Assessment for Construction of a Gas pipeline for Sasol. He has worked for

EnviroServ Waste Management as Site supervisor where he was responsible

with the following projects: Margolis closed landfill site, Midrand closed landfill

site, Nuttfield Closed site, Rosslyn H: h landfill site, Chloorkop general landfill

site. He has worked for BKS as an Environmental Scientist where he was

involved in the following projects: Social audits to identify possible impacts as a

result of relocation during construction of dams in KZN, EIA for the proposed

construction of a Sulphonation Plant in Wadeville, Facilitation of Public meetings

for the Cemetery development projects in Greater Tubatse and Develop

Integrated Waste Management Plan. He also worked for Synergistic

Environmental Services as an Environmental Scientist where he was responsible

with the following projects: Public Participation coordination and logistic



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preparation for public meetings, Sishen South Mine and Public Participation

coordination and logistic preparation for public meetings, Leeuwpan Coal Mine.

He also works for Zitholele Consulting as an Environmental Consultant where he

was responsible for the following projects: EIA Exemptions for Rufus Seakamela

Molalakgori, Mogalakwena Local Municipality,Menties, Segakgapeng roads

upgrading in Mogalakwena Local Municipality, EIA Exemption Rooibok/

Rietfontein and Mushi water supply, Magalakwena Local Municipality, EIA

Scoping for Mabula/ Irmansdale Water Supply, Mogalakwena Local Municipality,

Audit Thulamela Landfill site, Thulamela Municipality, EIA Scoping for the

relocation of Babsfontein Substation by Eskom, EIA for the proposed toll roads in

N17 by SANRAL. He also works for Environ-fill Waste Management as Trainee

Supervisor where he was responsible for the following project sites: Simmer and

Jack, Weltevreden General Landfill Sites, Ekurhuleni

Metropolitan,Lilbron Parys, Deelkraal, NgwatI Local Municipality,

Luipardsvle, Mogale City, Ngodwana (hazardous landfill site) SAPPI ,

Pappas Quarry (hazardous landfill site), MMC. He also worked for EMS

Group of Company as an Environmental Associate where he was

responsible with the following projects: EIA Scoping, Public

Participation, EMP for Tsosoloso, Vlakfontein, Mololeki, Duduza,

Putfontein Township developments, EIA Scoping, public participation for

the Upgrading of Kraaipan Road , BVI Consulting Engineers, EIA

Scoping and Exemption, Public Participation, EMP for Klipgat and

Winterveldt water pipelines, Madisha and Associates, Remediation of

polluted sites in Hluhluwe, Polokwane, Aquatic Club (Vaal River

Vereeniging) Total.

Gift Mutonhere,

Operational Manager at

Tshikovha

Environmental and

Communication

Consulting

Gift Mutonhere, the Operational Manager, holds a BSc (Hons) Degree in

Geography and Environmental Sciences obtained with the Midlands State

University. With a background in Safety, Health and Environmental Coordination,

he possesses experience in: Determination of Company Strategic Direction and

Continuous Improvement Plans; Leading, Developing and Maintaining SHEQ

Management Programmes and Systems; Retaining of SHEQ Accreditations and

the Attainment of New Ones; Risk Assessment Facilitation; Disaster

Preparedness and Emergency Response Planning; Safety, Health and

Environmental Hazard/Risk - Aspect/Impact Assessment and Management; SHE



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Training; Internal SHE Auditing; Investigation and Recording of SHE Incidents

and Accidents; and Legal Compliance Monitoring. He also has experience in

Training, Implementation and Auditing of ISO Management Systems, with special

notation to ISO 14001 (Environmental Management Systems), ISO 9001 (Quality

Systems), and OHSAS 18001 (Occupational Health and Safety Assurance

System) having been involved in several ISO Integrated Management Systems

Certification Processes. Gift Mutonhere has been among others, involved in the

following projects: EIA for Proposed Filling Station and Associated Structures in

Mashishing, Lydenburg, Mpumalanga; EIA for proposed Mixed Development

(Residential, Business and Filling Station) in Willowmore, Eastern Cape; EMP for

the proposed construction of a New Military Health Centre within the Polokwane

CBD, EIA for proposed filling station and associated structures at Chavani,

Limpopo.

Ngobeni Vutlharhi

Environmental

Assessment

Practitioner, Tshikovha

Environmental and

Communication

Consulting

Vutlharhi holds a Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Geography and Environmental

Studies. She has ten months experience in the Environmental field including

Environmental Compliance/Monitoring and Environmental Impact Assessment.

She has been fully engaged in Environmental Impact Assessment Projects. she

was actively involved in Environmental Impact Assessment (Scoping and EIR) for

mixed Housing Development in Garankuwa and Olievenhoutbosch, City of

Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality, Gauteng , Environmental Impact Assessment

(Basic Assessment) for the for the proposed construction of a Waste Tire

Shredding Plant , EBM project site, springs, Ekurhuleni Metropolitan

Municipality, Gauteng Province., Environmental Management Program for the

construction of a Filling Station at Bochum, Blouberg Municipality, Capricorn

District, Limpopo Province ,

Environmental Impact assessment (Basic Assessment) for the proposed

establishment of a poultry farm (egg production) in Walkerville, Midvaal,

Sedibeng Municipality, Gauteng Province. Environmental Impact Assessment

(Scoping and EIR) for the construction of Solar Energy Plant at Louis Trichadrt

under Makahado Local Municipality within Vhembe District, Limpopo Province.



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2.1 Why EMPr?

A typical EMPr will outline how negative environmental impacts will be managed and minimized; how positive

impacts will be maximised; and how the activities of the poultry and associated infrastructure will be managed.

The plan will provide guidelines for the planning, design, construction (where necessary), operation,

maintenance and eventual decommissioning of the proposed development, as well as a holistic management

and monitoring plan for the entire project. Recommendations will be given with regard to the responsible parties

for the implementation of the EMPr. The aims of this EMPr are to:

Encourage good management practices through planning and commitment to environmental issues;

Comply with all applicable laws, regulations, standards and guidelines for the protection of the

environment;

Adopt the best practicable means available to prevent or minimise adverse environmental impacts;

Ensure safe storage and distribution of all products;

Ensure effective maintenance of equipment and facilities;

Develop waste management practices based on prevention, minimisation, recycling, treatment or

disposal of wastes;

Describe all monitoring procedures required to identify impacts on the environment;

Train employees and contractors with regard to environmental obligations and aspects of the

proposed development;

Define how the management of the environment is reported and performance evaluated. Outline

guidelines for operational management for the sound management of environmental issues

pertaining to the execution of work associated with the facility; and

Provide detailed specifications for the management and mitigation of activities that have the potential

to impact negatively on the environment.

Project features Features of project with low

environmental risk

Features of projects with high

environmental risk

Issues Issues are simple, narrow in

scope, well-defined and well

understood.

Broad scope of issues, covering

biophysical and socio-economic

aspects.

Assessment of Impacts Impacts are well understood,

with high level of certainty in

Complex links between impacts

on biophysical and socio-



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predictions. The significance of

the impacts is low to negligible.

Impacts occur at a local scale.

economic environment.

Significance of several impacts

is medium to high, requiring

effective management. Impacts

could occur at a national to

international scale.

Mitigation and Monitoring Focuses primarily on

construction phase. EMPr may

only be required for construction

phase, since operations phase

does not present environmental

impact that need to be managed

on an on-going basis.

Required for the construction,

operation and decommissioning

phases of the project. Separate

EMPr’s usually prepared for

each of these phases.

Legal requirements Few legal requirements besides,

perhaps, approval of the EMPr.

Legal requirements can be met

readily.

Suite of legal requirements

needs to be met. Environmental

permits and licences required in

addition to approval of EMPr.

Stakeholder Interest Tends to be localised, as extent

of impacts is usually at local

scale and of negligible to low

significance.

Wider-scale stakeholder

interests may be co-ordinated

by an Environmental Monitoring

Committee.

Complexity of project

activities

Limited variety of contractors

involved during constructions,

making for easier project

management. Project activities

relatively simple. For projects

that are relatively simple. For

projects that are repeated

regularly, generic construction of

EMPr can be developed (e.g. for

roads, filling stations etc.)

Numerous types of contractors

involved in construction,

requiring more active

management. EMPr

responsibilities need to be

clearly delegated, monitored.

2.2 Guideline to EMPr



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Section 24N (2) of NEMA: the Environmental Management Programme must contain-

Information on any proposed management, mitigation, protection or remedial measures that

shall be undertaken to address the environmental impacts that have been identified in a

report contemplated in subsection 24(1A), including environmental impacts or objectives in

respect of –

o planning and design;

o pre-construction and construction activities;

o the operation or undertaking of the activity in question;

o the rehabilitation of the environment; and

o Closure, where relevant.

Details of –

o the person who prepared the environmental management programme; and

o the expertise of that person to prepare an environmental management programme

A detailed description of the aspects of the activity that are covered by the draft

environmental management plan;

Information identifying the persons who shall be responsible for the implementation of the

measures contemplated in paragraph (a);

Information in respect of the mechanisms proposed for monitoring compliance with the

environmental management programme.



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As far as is reasonable practicable, measures to rehabilitate the environment affected by the

undertaking of any listed activity or specified activity to its natural or predetermined state or to a land

use which conforms to the generally accepted principle of sustainable development; and

A description of the manner in which it intends to-

o Modify, remedy, control or stop any action, activity or process which causes pollution or

environmental degradation;

o Remedy the cause of pollution or degradation and mitigation of pollutants; and

o Comply with any prescribed environmental management standards or practices.

(3) The environmental management programme must, where appropriate-

Set out time periods within which the measures contemplated in the environmental

management programme must be implemented;

Contain measures regulating responsibilities for any environmental damage, pollution,

pumping and treatment of extraneous water or ecological degradation as a the proposed

project

Develop an environmental awareness plan describing the manner in which-

o the applicant intends to inform his or her employees of any environmental risk which may

result from their work; and

o risks must be dealt with in order to avoid pollution or the degradation of the environment



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Figure 1 Showing environmental management circle



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This EMPr serves the following:

Encourage good management practices through planning and commitment to environmental

issues;

Define how the management of the environment is reported and performance evaluated;

Provide rational and practical environmental guidelines to;

Minimise disturbance of the natural environment;

Prevent or minimise all forms of pollution;

Protect indigenous environment;

Comply with all applicable laws, regulations, standards and guidelines for the protection of

the environment;

Adopt the best practicable means available to prevent or minimize adverse environmental

impacts;

Develop waste management practices based on prevention, minimization, recycling,

treatment or disposal of wastes;

Describe all monitoring procedures required to identify impacts on the environment; and

Train employees and contractors with regard to environmental obligations.



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3. LEGAL CONSIDERATIONS

3.1 Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996(Act No. 108 of 1996)

The Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996 has major implications for environmental management.

The main effects are the protection of environmental and property rights, the drastic change brought about by the

sections dealing with administrative law such as access to information, just administrative action and broadening

of the locus stand of litigants. These aspects provide general and overarching support and are of major

assistance in the effective implementation of the environmental management principles and structures of the

Environment Conservation Act and NEMA. Section 24 in the Bill of Rights of the Constitution specifically states:

"Everyone has the right –

To an environment that is not harmful to their health or well-being; and

To have the environment protected, for the benefit of present and future generations, through

reasonable legislative and other measures that -

Prevent pollution and ecological degradation;

Promote conservation; and

Secure ecologically sustainable development and use of natural resources while promoting

justifiable economic and social development."

This section of the Constitution obliges industries and organizations that are responsible for generating waste, to

manage the waste in a way that will not cause pollution and thus negatively affect the health and wellbeing of

humans.

3.2 National Environmental Management Act, 1998 (Act No. 107 of 1998)

The National Environmental Management Act (NEMA) provides the legislative framework for Integrated

Environmental Management (IEM) in South Africa. Section 24 stipulates that all activities that may significantly

affect the environment and require authorisation by law must be assessed prior to approval. NEMA also provides

for co-operative environmental governance by establishing principles for decision-making on matters affecting

the environment, institutions that will promote co-operative governance and procedures for co-ordinating

environmental functions exercised by organs of the state and to provide for matters connected therewith. Section



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2 of NEMA establishes a set of principles that apply to the activities of all organs of state that may significantly

affect the environment.

This includes the following:

Development must be sustainable;

Pollution must be avoided or minimised and remedied;

Waste must be avoided or minimised, re-used or recycled;

Negative impacts must be minimised; and responsibility for the environmental health and

safety consequences of a policy, project, product or service exists throughout its life cycle.

These principles are taken into consideration when a government department exercises its powers, for example

during the granting of permits and the enforcement of existing legislation or conditions of approval.

Section 28(1) of NEMA states that “every person who causes, has caused may cause significant pollution or

degradation of the environment must take reasonable measures to prevent such pollution or degradation from

occurring, continuing or recurring”. If such pollution cannot be prevented, then appropriate measures must be

taken to minimise or rectify such pollution. These may include:

Assessing the impact on the environment;

Informing and educating employees about the environmental risks of their work and ways to

minimise these risks

Ceasing, modifying or controlling actions which cause pollution/degradation;

Containing pollutants or preventing movement of pollutants and

Eliminating the source of pollution; and remedying the impacts of the pollution

The authority may direct industry to rectify or remedy a potential or actual problem. If such directive is not

compiled with, the authorities may undertake the work and recover the responsible industry.

3.3 National Environmental Management Waste Act (Act No. 59 of 2008)

The National Environmental Management; Waste Act, No 59 of 2008 came into effect on 1 July 2009. The

main objectives of the Waste Act are as follows:

Promote an integrated approach in dealing with waste which focuses on prevention,

minimization and responsible disposal of waste.



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Ensure that waste is properly managed in order to minimise its potential to cause damage to

the socio-economic and bio-physical environments.

To build capacity and assist the South African industrial sector to properly manage waste by

requiring provinces and municipalities to develop integrated waste management plans that

are co-ordinated and aligned with the relevant integrated development plans and other plans

and programmes of provincial and national government.

To provide guidance to regulatory authorities.

To assist the industrial sector in moving to improved waste management practices.

To provide for industry waste management plans at a national level for industries that cross

provincial boundaries as well as at a provincial level for industry specific to a particular

province.

To ensure that a National Waste Management Strategy is established

To ensure alignment of provincial and national waste management standards.

To promote the principles of reduce, re-use, recover, recycle

To ensure responsible waste disposal.

To prevent pollution and ecological degradation.

3.4 National Waste Management Strategy (1999)

The National Waste Management Strategy presents a long term plan for addressing issues, needs and problems

experienced with management in South Africa. It is also an action plan taking forward the goals of the White

paper on Integrated Waste Management and Pollution Control. The priority initiatives that are identified and

addressed by the strategy include:

Integrated Waste Planning;

Waste Information Systems;

Waste Minimisation;

Recycling;

Waste Collection and Transport

3.5 National Water Act, (Act No. 36 of 1998)

The National Water Act (NWA) administered by DWA aims to manage and protect the national water resources

to achieve sustainable use of water for the benefit of all water users. The purpose of the Act is to ensure that the

nation's water resources are protected, used, developed, conserved, and managed in ways that take into

account:



24

Meeting the basic human needs of present and future generations;

Promoting equitable access to water;

Redressing the results of past racial discrimination;

Promoting the efficient, sustainable and beneficial use of water in the public interest;

Facilitating social and economic development;

Providing for the growing demand for water use;

Protecting aquatic and associated ecosystems and their biological diversity;

Reducing and preventing pollution and degradation of water resources;

Meeting international obligations;

Promoting dam safety; and

Managing floods and droughts.

» Section 19 of the act focuses on the prevention and remedying effects of pollution. This section requires

that an owner of the land, a person in control of the land or a person who occupies or uses the land on

which any activity or process is performed that causes or is likely to cause pollution of a water resource, to

take all reasonable measures to prevent any such pollution from occurring, continuing and recurring. A

prescribed regimen of groundwater monitoring will need to be implemented as part of the permit conditions

of the waste disposal site. Compliance to the Minimum Requirements for water monitoring at Waste

Disposal Sites, 2nd edition, 1998, DWA must also be taken into consideration.

» Section 20 of the Act deals with accidents and the control of emergencies. Any incidents that cause

pollution or may cause pollution of a water resource must be reported to DWA and immediate remedial

measures undertaken.

The Hazardous Substances Act 15 of 1973 governs the control of substances that may cause ill health or

death in humans by reason of their toxic, corrosive, irritant, flammability or pressure effects. The Act

provides for the prohibition and control of the importation, manufacture, sale, use, operation, application,

modification, disposal or dumping of such substances and products; and to provide for matters connected

therewith. A license is required for an operation that stores, handles and sells Group I substances. The Act

also prescribed the disposal of certain hazardous substances and their containers.

3.6 National Health Act (Act No.61 of 2003)

The Health Act provides measures for the promotion of health of citizens of South Africa and is administered

by the Department of Health (DoH). The Act has impact on waste management in that it obliges local

authorities to prevent nuisances and offensive conditions within their areas.



25

The Act also provide for Municipal Health Services which include:

Water quality monitoring;

Waste management;

Health surveillance of premises;

Environmental pollution control; and

3.7 The National Environmental Air Quality Act (Act No. 39 of 2004)

This act aims to reform the law regulating air quality in order to protect the environment by providing

reasonable measures for the prevention of pollution and ecological degradation and for securing ecologically

sustainable development while promoting justifiable economic and social development to provide for national

norms and standards regulating air quality monitoring, management and control by all spheres of

government; for specific air quality measures; and for matters incidental thereto.

3.8 Conservation of Agriculture Resources (Act No. 43 of 1983)

The Conservation of Agricultural Resources Act (CARA) aims to provide for control over the utilization of

natural agricultural resources in order to promote the conservation of the soil, water resources and

vegetation and to combat weeds and invasive plants. Section 6 of the Act makes provision for control

measures to be applied in order to achieve the objectives of the Act. These measures relate to inter alia:

Cultivation of virgin soil, utilization or protection of wetlands, marshes, water sponges and water courses or

sources the regulation of the flow of run-off water, utilization and protection of the vegetation, grazing

capacity of veld and the number and types of animals, control of weeds and invader plants and the

restoration or reclamation of eroded land or land is disturbed or denuded. All these provisions have

implications for any development and these aspects are implemented via Regulations to the Act. Therefore

the proposed poultry project must become a member of a conservation association. The developer has the

responsibility to implement and maintain any soil conservation works and to properly conserve natural

resources and combat weeds and invasive plants.

3.9 Occupational Health and Safety, (Act No. 85 of 1993)

The Occupational Health and Safety Act 85 of 1993 is South Africa’s principle legislation concerning health

and safety of employees. It also aims to protect persons who are not at work against hazard to health and

safety arising out of or in connection with the activities of persons at work.

The Act places the responsibility on the employer to ensure a safe and healthy working environment and to

cause every employee to be made conversant with health and safety requirements relevant to their work. At



26

the same time the Act places the responsibility on the employee to follow its employer’s health and safety

procedures and instructions. A number of Regulations have been promulgated under the Act that is relevant

to development including the following:

General Administrative Regulations, 1994

Asbestos Regulations, 2001

Lead Regulations, 2003

Regulations for Hazardous Chemical Substances, 1995

Hazardous Biological Agents of 2001;

General Safety Regulations, 1986

Environmental regulations for workplaces (Department of Labour, 1994); and

Construction Regulations, 2003.

All waste management activities need to be carried out in accordance with the requirements of the OHS Act

and must include the following activities:

Waste Management Practices must be safe and without risk;

Risk Assessments conducted will include waste related activities;

Waste management training will be provided to employees and contractors;

Written work instructions will be provided where necessary; and

Relevant personal protective equipment and respiratory protective equipment must be

provided as last resort after all migratory measures have been reviewed.

3.10 Integrated Environmental Management (IEM)

The general approach to this study has been guided by the principles of Integrated Environmental

Management (IEM). In accordance with the IEM Guidelines (Department of Environmental Affairs and

Tourism (DEAT), 1992), an open, transparent approach, which encourages decision-making, that has been

accountable, has been adopted. IEM is a procedure for ensuring that environmental considerations are fully

integrated into all stages of the development process. This philosophy aims to achieve a desirable balance

between conservation and development (DEAT, 1992). The IEM guidelines intend encouraging a pro-active

approach to sourcing, collating and presenting information in a manner that can be interpreted at all levels.



27

4 RESPONSIBILITIES

This section describes the roles and responsibilities of key stakeholders involved in the project. The Developer or

her Project Manager has the responsibilities for activities undertaken on the proposed project. The Competent

Authority is responsible for regulatory compliance. The Site Manager will actively assist the Authority (GDARD) in

fulfilling these responsibilities. Thumo Acres has the overall responsibility for ensuring that environmental

activities undertaken are compliant to regulatory requirements and company commitments. Key role players are

outlined in the table below.



28

Roles Responsibility

Competent Authority

(GDARD)

GDARD is responsible for the review of the draft and amendment of the EMPr

documents.

Liaise with Environmental Control Officer on environmental issues and non-

compliance.

Site Manager Be familiar with the conditions of the Environmental Authorisation and EMPr;

Be conversant with all relevant environmental legislation and environmental

policies and procedures and ensure compliance with these;

Liaise with the Applicant or her delegate, and/or any other duly appointed

delegate on matters concerning the environment;

Prevent actions that will harm or may cause harm to the environment, and take

steps to prevent pollution on site; and

Confine activities to the demarcated areas

All employees All employees are required to:

Interact and show commitment to communicational activities undertaken by

the business and support, educate and manage where possible.

Not interfere with, or misuse anything provided in the interests of

environmental protection.

Report all environmental incidents to the Site Manager

Contractor Ensures that all subcontractors and services providers are well informed of the

environmental requirements and responsibilities;

Adhering to instructions issued by the engineer on advice of the ECO;

Submitting Method Statement for approval by the ECO prior comments of any

work;

Liaise closely with the Engineer and the ECO and ensure that work is

conducted in an environmentally sound manner.



29

5 PROJECT DESCRIPTION AND LOCATION

5.1 Project Location

The proposed project is to be located on portion 106 and 108 of Farm Elandsfontein 334IQ in Walkerville

(Ward 7) within the Midvaal Local Municipality, in Sedibeng District in the Gauteng Province

The site coordinates are as follows:

Latitude: 26° 23' 50.10" South

Longitude 27° 54' 57.00" East

Figure 2 Locality Map

5.2 Project Description

Thumo Acres has proposed for the establishment of a poultry farm (egg production) and associated

infrastructure on Portions 106 and 108 of Farm Elandsfontein 334IQ in Walkerville within Midvaal Local

Municipality, Sedibeng District, Gauteng Province. Initially two coops will be constructed on the eastern side of

the farm house, the coops will have a collective footprint of 8 hectares and each coop will house 40 000



30

chickens. Therefore 80 000 chickens will be housed initially. However there is potential to increase the number of

chickens to 1 000 000. Should the quantity of chickens increase, the size of infrastructure will increase, for

instance, the size of the trucks transporting the eggs will also increase to ensure that there is no increased

impact on the traffic through increased vehicular movement, thus minimizing significant impacts on the

environment.

The proposed activity will entail the following:

The construction of a concrete slab where coops are to be assembled;

The construction of two coops for the concentration of 80 000 chickens initially with the potential for more

coops to increase the capacity to 1, 000, 000; the coops will consist of battery cages where 6-8 chickens

will be placed in each cage;

The construction of a small generator house next to the coops;

The construction of two rooms just before you enter the coops, the first room is for the storage of water to

spray in the coops during high temperatures weather conditions and the second room is the control area;

The construction of a packing and sorting area which will consist of offices;

The establishment of two automated silos for the storage of chicken feed;

Two boreholes will be constructed in addition to the two existing boreholes which currently have the

capacity of 5000L;

The establishment of biosecurity infrastructure;

Establishment of storm water management measures; and

Establishment and installation of all associated services (e.g. Ablution services, septic tank,

security/guard area,).



31

6 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT MEASURES

The following section outlines the environmental impacts associated with this development, as well as any

mitigation measures that may be implemented to better manage the effects imposed on the environment by this

development.

Final Environmental Management Programme for the proposed establishment of a poultry farm and its associated infrastructure on portion 106 and 108 of Farm Elandsfontein 334IQ Walkerville, Midvaal Local Municipality, Sedibeng District, Gauteng Province

32

Figure 3 Pre - planning phase environmental specifications

PLANNING PHASE

Activity

Aspect

Impact

Objectives

Mitigation measures

Responsibility

Phase

Design and

planning of the

proposed poultry

farm

Inadequate

planning and

design

Impact on the

environment that

could potentially

have been avoided

To plan and design

productive poultry

farm

Site selection for the proposed activities

should include consideration of the

following: factors

Design and construction

requirements for spillage control,

storm water management and

erosion control measures

Access to and from the proposed site

Available water and electricity supply

Fire protection services and their

reaction times.

Security and general services

facilities in the area.

General housing keeping practices

Soil types

Developer/ Site

Manager/Contractor

Planning

Phase


33

PLANNING PHASE

Activity

Aspect

Impact

Objectives

Mitigation measures

Responsibility

Phase

The above listed information must be

recorded before the construction at site

commences and should be used for future

monitoring.

Environmental

training

Lack of

environmental

knowledge

among

employees.

Harm to the

environment due to

employees being

unaware of how

their activities may

impact the

environment.

To prevent harm to

the environment

through the actions

of uneducated

employees.

All site personnel must have a basic

level of environmental awareness

training.

Communication of all environmental

issues will be communicated to all

personnel, stakeholders, interested

and affected parties that shall be

involved in the construction and

operation of the Poultry farm.

The need for a “clean site” policy

must be explained to the workers

especially with regard to the potential

for disease outbreak.

Workers must be properly trained in

Site Manager Planning Phase


34

PLANNING PHASE

Activity

Aspect

Impact

Objectives

Mitigation measures

Responsibility

Phase

all aspects relating to the operation of

the facility and must be familiar with

the content of the environmental

authorization and Environmental

Management Programme.

Workers must also be conceited on

all “no-go”’ areas.

Visual and aesthetic The design of

coops

Visual impacts To minimise visual

intrusion

The chicken coops should be designed to

minimise visual intrusion. The colour

selection and tone must be carefully

considered to mitigate visual impacts of

the chicken coops.

-Visual screen planting can be undertaken

in the form of boundary planting around

the chicken coops.

Developer / site manager/Building Contractor

Planning phase

Waste management Solid waste,

hazardous and

general waste

Poor management

of waste

Establish effective

waste management

systems.

Management of general waste

• An appropriate area where waste can

be stored before disposal must be

Developer / Site

Manager

Planning

Phase


35

PLANNING PHASE

Activity

Aspect

Impact

Objectives

Mitigation measures

Responsibility

Phase

designated.

General waste will be disposed off at

Walkerville Landfill Site.

Management of chicken waste

• Design must include a system for the

proper capturing and collection of waste

streams.

• Waste must be placed on impermeable

surfaces to minimise leakage and soil

contamination.

• Designate an appropriate area where

waste can be stored before disposal.

Residue from cement mixing and/or the

mixing of related materials must be

cleared away.

The mixing of cement and/or related

materials will not be permitted on areas


36

PLANNING PHASE

Activity

Aspect

Impact

Objectives

Mitigation measures

Responsibility

Phase

which form part of the open space

system.

Social economic Job creation Social economic

impacts

The proposed

development will

potentially create

jobs and business

opportunities for

local businesses

The Local Municipality and Ward

Councillor will be engaged prior to

recruitment of personnel; preference will

be given to locals wherever possible

.

Developer / Site

Manager/ Ward

Councillor/

Municipality

Planning

Phase


37

Figure 4 Mitigations measures for the construction phase of the proposed development.

CONSTRUCTION PHASE

Activity

Aspect

Impact

Objectives

Mitigation Measures

Responsibilities

phase

Site

Establishment

Demarcation

of the site

Unnecessary

removal of

vegetation

The environmental

objective when

establishing the site is to

minimise the footprint of

disturbance, the extent of

soil erosion, loss of

vegetation and the

potential for the pollution

of soils.

Where possible no clearing of the

vegetation should be done for site

establishment and naturalised camping

should be utilised where necessary to

avoid extensive impacts on the

environment.

Where clearing of vegetation cannot be

avoided, it should be strictly limited to the

exact footprint required for the site

establishment.

Ablution facilities should be within 100m

from workplaces but not closer than 100m

from any natural water bodies or

boreholes. There should be enough toilets

available to accommodate the workforce.

Safe drinking water for human

consumption must be available on site.

Developer / Site

Manager/Contractor

Construction

Phase


38

CONSTRUCTION PHASE

Activity

Aspect

Impact

Objectives

Mitigation Measures

Responsibilities

phase

The Contractor shall supply waste

collection bins where such is not available

and all solid waste collected must be

disposed of at Walkerville landfill Site.

Under no circumstances may solid waste

be burnt onsite.

Clearance of

topsoil for the

construction of

poultry farm

Disturbance

of soil due to

clearance of

topsoil and

vegetation.

-Loss of

natural

vegetation.

Potential soil

erosion can take

place due to the

exposed surfaces

Clearance and

stockpiling of topsoil in

such a way that causes

the least harm and that it

could be reused for

rehabilitation purpose.

No topsoil should be cleared unless it is

necessary for the establishment of the site

facilities.

Topsoil is to be stripped when soil is dry,

to reduce compaction.

Compaction of the removed topsoil should

be avoided.

Storm water should be diverted away from

compacted areas.

Developer / Site

Manager

Construction

Phase

Health and Health and Potential safety To be in compliance Equip all employees and/or contractors Contractor/Site Construction


39

CONSTRUCTION PHASE

Activity

Aspect

Impact

Objectives

Mitigation Measures

Responsibilities

phase

Safety: Potential

dangerous

working

conditions

safety risk to employees to the relevant

Occupational Health

and Safety

Legislation

working on the site with the necessary

personal protective equipment.

Implement safety induction.

Training on relevant machinery. All safety

signs as required by the Occupational

Health and Safety Act must be visible on

site.

Ensure that all employees adhere to the

Occupational Health and Safety Act.

A First Aid kit should be provided within

the site. This should be fully equipped at

all times, site workers should also be

trained on basic first aid skills.

Manager Phase

Air quality Dust and air quality

Air pollution

through dust and

vehicle emissions

To reduce the generation

of dust and emissions on

construction site

Dust control

Dampening down of un-surfaced and un-

vegetated areas must be done during

dusty periods.

Vegetation must be retained where

Contractor/Site

Manager

Construction

Phase


40

CONSTRUCTION PHASE

Activity

Aspect

Impact

Objectives

Mitigation Measures

Responsibilities

phase

possible to reduce dust travel.

The Contractor must be responsible for

dust control onsite to ensure no nuisance

is caused to the workers and neighbouring

communities.

A speed limit of 40km/h must not be

exceeded on internal gravel or dust

access roadways.

Any complaints or claims emanating from

the lack of dust control must be attended

to immediately.

Water Quality Water

resources

Pollution of water

resources

To prevent the pollution

of water resources

Sanitation

Adequate sanitary and ablutions facilities

must be provided for construction workers.

The facilities must be regularly serviced to

reduce the risk of surface or groundwater

pollution.

Storm water

Developer / Site

Manager

Construction

Phase


41

CONSTRUCTION PHASE

Activity

Aspect

Impact

Objectives

Mitigation Measures

Responsibilities

phase

The site must be managed in a manner

that prevents pollution of drains,

downstream watercourses or

groundwater, due to suspended solids, silt

or chemical pollutants.

Hazardous substances must be stored at

least 100m away from any water bodies

on site to avoid pollution.

Waste

Management

(storage, removal

and disposal of

waste)

Construction

waste,

domestic

waste

Land pollution,

Bad odours.

Decreased

aesthetic integrity

Of the site.

To ensure that waste is

correctly stored and

disposed of, decreasing

the visual impact during

the construction and post

construction period.

General waste

Sufficient waste bins must be provided at the

construction site for waste separation, disposal

and for recycling purposes.

Littering by the employees of the Contractor

must not be allowed under any circumstances.

The Site Manger shall monitor the neatness of

the work sites.

All waste must be removed from the site and

transported to Walkerville landfill site.

Contractor / Site

Manager

Construction

phase


42

CONSTRUCTION PHASE

Activity

Aspect

Impact

Objectives

Mitigation Measures

Responsibilities

phase

Safety and Security

Security at

the

Construction

Camp and

along the

alignment.

Theft and

Vandalism of

machinery and

private properties.

To ensure that

machinery and

equipment at the site

are not stolen or

vandalised

No person should enter the site unless

authorised to do so by the security.

The site must be secured in order to reduce

the opportunity for criminal activity in the

locality of the site.

Contractor / Site Manager

Contractor

Socio economic Job creation Socio economic impact

The proposed

development will

potentially create jobs

and business

opportunities for local

businesses

The Local Municipality and Ward Councillor will

be engaged prior to recruitment of personnel;

preference will be given to locals where

applicable.

Developer/Site

Manager/ Ward

Councillor/

Municipality

Construction phase


43

Figure 5 Mitigation measures for the operational phase of the development

,

OPERATIONAL PHASE

Activity

Aspect

Impact

Objectives

Mitigation measures

Responsibilities

Phase

Management

of

condemned

carcasses or

general

waste or

solid waste

Waste

Management

Bad smelling odours,

Health risk, Pollution

To ensure that waste is

correctly stored and

disposed of, decreasing

the visual

impact during operation

of the poultry farm,

Every coop must undergo a visual inspection

at every shift change to check for possible

mortalities and defects in the automated coop

operating system and a report of the condition

of the coop generated and filed.

Chicken manure must be stored under a roof

to prevent it from mixing with the storm water

or it must be used or sold as fertilizer directly

after cleaning.

Chicken manure will be removed on a manure

belting system (conveyor belts) at a frequency

of once in three days. The manure will then be

conveyed to a manure house or container and

packaged; the manure should be removed

from the site within three days. The manure is

to be sold to end users such as crop farmers

/ site manager/ Municipality

Operational phase


44

,

OPERATIONAL PHASE

Activity

Aspect

Impact

Objectives

Mitigation measures

Responsibilities

Phase

and nurseries.

The removal of manure will occur every three

days to prevent accumulation on site, keeping

the nutrient rich manure from potentially

polluting the ground surface.

General waste must be collected on site and

be disposed of at Walkerville landfill site.

Litter

Maintain good litter conditions by keeping the

litter dry throughout the production cycle. The

automated humidity control systems within the

chicken coop should be monitored for

efficiency all the time.

Litter must be preserved in dry area, covered

by sheeting or within a shed to protect it from

rain and leaching in order to prevent noxious

odours and ammonia from forming.


45

,

OPERATIONAL PHASE

Activity

Aspect

Impact

Objectives

Mitigation measures

Responsibilities

Phase

Solid waste

Chicken manure and bedding material should

be removed from site at least once every 3

weeks.

Dead chickens should be collected from the

chicken coops on a daily basis.

A mortality register should be kept.

Mortalities should be stored in closable bio-

hazard bins at a suitable and controlled

holding facility until they are removed from site

and disposed of according to the State Vet’s

instructions.

Flies, rodents and other vermin should be

strictly controlled. .

Workers should be instructed not to litter on

site.

General and household waste should be


46

,

OPERATIONAL PHASE

Activity

Aspect

Impact

Objectives

Mitigation measures

Responsibilities

Phase

properly disposed of on a regular basis at the

Walkerville Landfill Site

Chicken mortalities

There should be temporary storage of

mortalities

The temporary storage area for mortalities

must be a covered area that has access

control, preventing the unlawful removal of

mortalities.

In the event of temporary storage, mortalities

must be stored in sealed bins prior to disposal.

Disposal of mortalities

Mortalities must be disposed of as soon as

possible

Mass disposal of mortalities

In the event of disease outbreak

o Notify the State Vet


47

,

OPERATIONAL PHASE

Activity

Aspect

Impact

Objectives

Mitigation measures

Responsibilities

Phase

o The State Vet must visit the site

o The State Vet will place the property, or

the specific chicken site or house that is

infected, under quarantine.

o Depending on the disease and severity,

the chickens can be slaughtered on site

or transported to an abattoir with a Red

Cross permit.

Effluent

Effluent should be channelled to a septic tank

Septic tanks should be installed further than

100m on either side of any watercourse.

Reduce

odour level

Odour Bad odour from

chicken manure

To minimise the impact

of odour from chicken

manure by

implementation of

chicken manure

The chicken houses must be well ventilated to

avoid odours. The automated ventilation

system to be used must by checked for

effectiveness on a regular basis.

Chicken waste must be maintained at optimal

Developer / Site

Manager

Operational

phase


48

,

OPERATIONAL PHASE

Activity

Aspect

Impact

Objectives

Mitigation measures

Responsibilities

Phase

moisture content to control odours and

simultaneously minimise dust levels.

Smells and odours from chicken coops must

be highly controlled by removing chicken

droppings and dead chickens from the chicken

coops.

Avoid offensive smells by ensuring the

hygiene and health of the chickens.

Health and safety

Human health Health risk to the site

staff and community

surrounding due to

activities on site

Manage and mitigate

health impacts on site

and to

surrounding

community

A detailed bio-security protocol/programme

should be compiled and implemented by the

Applicant.

Natural buffer zones around chicken Coops

should be maintained.

Chickens will be vaccinated and coops will be

cleaned on a daily basis.

Restricted admission (e.g. functional fence

with gates that can be locked, access control,

Applicant / Site

Manager

Operational

Phase


49

,

OPERATIONAL PHASE

Activity

Aspect

Impact

Objectives

Mitigation measures

Responsibilities

Phase

restricting visitors to the minimum).

There should be Transit facilities (e.g. at the

site office) where private clothes and foot wear

are exchanged for farm clothes and foot wear

to reduce the risk of diseases being carried

onto the farm.

Proper sanitary facilities must be provided for

staff, i.e. wash rooms with showering facilities.

Distinction should be made between the

“private clothes area” and the “site clothes

area”.

Vehicles entering the site must be disinfected.

If not, they must be left at a safe parking area

at a distance away from chicken houses.

Workers should be adequately trained to

follow all safety procedures and wear

protective equipment provided.


50

,

OPERATIONAL PHASE

Activity

Aspect

Impact

Objectives

Mitigation measures

Responsibilities

Phase

Water drinking troughs for chickens should be

flushed and cleaned on a daily basis, i.e. daily

to at least three times per week to provide

protection against microbial contamination and

the build-up of bio-film. Chicken coops should

be ventilated

Dead chickens should be collected from the

chicken coops on a daily basis. A mortality

register should be kept.

Mortalities should be stored in closable bio-

hazard bins at a suitable and controlled

holding facility until they are removed from site

and disposed of at the landfill site

Flies and other vermin should be strictly

controlled.

A Mortality Disposal Procedure (MDP) should

be implemented.


51

,

OPERATIONAL PHASE

Activity

Aspect

Impact

Objectives

Mitigation measures

Responsibilities

Phase

Security

No unauthorised firearms or weapons of any

kind will be permitted onsite.

Independent site security must be provided by

the Proponent on site during hours of

darkness, and if possible during the day at

temporary access points

24 hour security should be appointed by the

Proponent.

The use of

water

Inefficiency and

unsustainable

use of water

resources

Potential wastage of

water depletion of

water resource.

The existing borehole

will be used for all

purposes

To prevent wastage of

natural resource.

Leaking water taps and hosepipes must be

repaired immediately.

Running water taps and hosepipes should not

be left unattended.

All hose and tap connections are to be fitted

with correct and appropriate plumbing fittings.

Implement and awareness campaign

regarding water use.

Applicant / Ste

Manager

Operational

phase


52

Figure 6 Mitigation measures for decommissioning phase

Decommissioning Phase

Activity

Aspect

Impact

Objectives

Mitigation Measures

Responsibility

Phase

Rehabilitation

of the site.

Removal of

structures and

infrastructure

(such as

fencing,

signage,

equipment,

Environmental

degradation

as a result of inapt

removal

of structures and

Infrastructure.

To ensure

proper

removal and

disposal of

structures and

Infrastructure.

The construction area must be rehabilitated

as soon as construction ceases.

Remove all construction equipment, storage

containers, signage, fencing etc. from site.

No unauthorised entry, stockpiling, dumping

or storage of equipment outside the site

boundary is permitted.

Remove all temporary structures and re-

instate the area on completion of the works.

All effluent washing water should be

properly disposed of.

Dustbins should be emptied and removed

from the site.

Dispose refuse and waste from site at a

registered waste site.

Applicant / Site

Manager

Decommissioning

Phase

Generation, Potential Domestic waste Implement and Materials should be reused or recycled Developer / Site Decommissioning


53


Activity

Aspect

Impact

Objectives

Mitigation Measures

Responsibility

Phase

disposal and

storage of

waste.

incorrect

disposal of

general waste

(including

domestic waste

and building

rubble)

generated

during the

operational

phase.

generated by

employees and

contractors, Potential

hazardous waste such

as chicken odours or

contaminated soil

removed due to

leaking runoff water.

maintain waste

management system.

where possible

General waste should be collected by the

Municipality and be disposed of to the

Walkerville landfill site.

All Waste Storage areas including areas

where potentially hazardous waste is stored

should be adequately fenced in and

secured to prevent any access of public

members and unauthorised people.

Manager Phase

Replacement

of topsoil

and

vegetation

Incorrect

replacement

and levelling of

the topsoil

Potential soil

compaction or soil

erosion as a result of

incorrect replacement

and levelling of the

topsoil

Develop and

implement a

rehabilitation strategy

for the waste dump.

Set rehabilitation objectives with regards to the

Waste Dumping area including the following:

Soil usage,

Vegetation establishment,

Removal of infrastructure,

Sloping methods

Developer / site

Manager

Decommissioning

Phase


54


Activity

Aspect

Impact

Objectives

Mitigation Measures

Responsibility

Phase

End land use requirements.

Long-term erosion prevention

Confirmatory monitoring

Rehabilitation will be undertaken to the

natural angle



55

Figure 7 Environmental Guidelines

WASTE MANAGEMENT:

Objectives To ensure that the waste management hierarchy is observed for the facility

Responsibility Timing

Activities General

The general cleanliness of the

site and compliance with the

waste disposal requirements

outlined will form part of the site

inspections

Where possible, waste must be

collected for recycling purposes

Scrap Metal and Hazardous

Substance Containers

Scrap metal (components, sheet

metal, nails, tins) must be stored

in a designated scrap metal

container (e.g. a skip)

When the scrap metal container

is full, the scrap metal must

either be collected by a scrap

metal dealer or transferred to an

appropriate disposal site.

Hazardous substance

Appointed Waste

Contractor/ Site

Manager

General waste to be

disposed of weekly



56

containers, contaminated

substrates and materials used in

the clean-up of spillages must be

stored in a designated,

impermeable container (e.g. a

skip)

The hazardous substance

containers, contaminated soil,

clean-up materials, etc. must be

transferred to an appropriate

disposal site on a weekly basis.

CONCRETE MIXING:

Objectives To ensure that concrete mixing will not cause any detrimental effect to the receiving

environment


Activities If small volumes of concrete are

to be mixed (manually), mixing is

to be undertaken on a hard

surface covered in plastic

sheeting so that concrete waste

and runoff can be contained.

All concrete waste is to be

collected, recycled if possible,

and removed from the site for

disposal at an appropriate

disposal site.

Appointed Waste

Contractor/Site

Manager

Weekly



57

WATER QUALITY:

Objective To prevent the contamination of water by materials used during construction and

operational phases, ensure the following:


Implement measures to prevent

seepage of liquid materials into

ground where it could

contaminate groundwater.

Ensure prompt cleaning up of

accidental spillages (Section 20

of the National Water Act).

The machinery / equipment

should be maintained in a good

operating condition.

Specially designated areas for

vehicle maintenance should be

identified.

Accidental spillages should be

cleaned up promptly.

Ensure adequate procedures are

in place for implementation of the

above mentioned.

Site Manager Daily inspections

should be carried out



58

DUST CONTROL:

Objectives Prevent/minimise dust at all times


Activities Excavation, handling and

transport of materials must be

avoided under high wind

conditions or when a visible dust

plume is present.

During high wind conditions, dust

suppression measures will be

required.

Site Manager Weekly inspections

SOCIAL AMENITY:

Objectives To ensure that the operational activities pose as little nuisance as possible to the

surrounding communities


Activities Minimisation of disturbance of

the residents in the vicinity of the

site will have to be taken into

account during all phases of the

project

The siting of areas for delivery of

Site Manager

Daily



59

equipment and materials must

take into account the noise

generated by the vehicle as well

as noise generated by off-loading

equipment.

Noise should be limited to site

All vehicles and equipment must

be properly maintained to reduce

unnecessary noise.

Factors to take into account are;

arriving and departing traffic,

loading and unloading of

equipment and materials; and

day-to-day operations

CONTAMINATED WATER AND SOIL MANAGEMENT:

Objectives To conserve soil resources and to maintain the viability of soil disturbed by the

development and associated infrastructure


Activities All soil that is contaminated must

be removed and stored in a skip

until it can be disposed of at an

appropriate disposal site.

All wastewater and polluted

runoff from contaminated areas

must be channelled into

Site Manager Weekly



60

appropriately sized, designed

and located collection sump.

EMPLOYMENT CREATION:

Objective To maximise possible employment opportunities


Activities Local labour (both male and

female, skilled and unskilled) will

be employed as a priority

Workers are to be made aware

that employment is only

temporary and will cease at the

end of the contract period. Where

possible, employment of local

persons is also encouraged

during the Operational Phase of

the Project.

Developer/Project

Manager/Local

Authority e.g.

through Ward

Councillor

Planning Phase and

intermittently as and

when required.



61

7. Conclusion

The construction of the proposed poultry farm can be managed against detrimental impacts on the environment

based on the assessment of the impacts and the mitigation measures provided. The Environmental Management

Programme has been guided by the following conceptual and actual implementation requirements that broadly

reflect best practice in EMPr’s:

Continuous improvement. Thumo Acres will be committed to review and to continually improve

environmental management, with the objective of improving overall environmental performance.

Broad level of commitment. A broad level of commitment is required from all levels of management as

well as the workforce in order for the development and implementation of the EMPr to be successful

and effective.

Flexible and responsive. The implementation of the EMPr needs to be responsive to new and

changing circumstances. This could be realized through rapid short-term responses to problems or

incidents, as well as regular planned reviews and revision of the EMP at key stages in the project cycle.

The EMPr report is a dynamic “living” document that will need to be updated regularly throughout the

duration of the project life-cycle.

Integration across operations. The EMPr needs to be integrated across existing line functions or

operational units. This is when the full benefits of the EMPr can be realized and requires a change in

mind-set from seeing environmental management as the domain of one unit (e.g. the Health, Safety and

Environmental Department in a company), to being an imperative that cuts across all line functions. This

is necessary if the higher principles of sustainable development are to be realized.



62

8. References

1. CSIR. 2002. Guidelines for standardised Environmental Management Plans for projects within

the water resource management component of the Department of Water Affairs and Forestry.

CSIR Report ENV-P-C 2002-032. Prepared for DWAF, Directorate: Social and Ecological

Services, Pretoria.

2. Department of Environmental Affairs & Tourism (DEAT). 2002. Stakeholder Engagement,

Integrated Environmental Management, Information Series 3. Department of Environmental

Affairs and Tourism, Pretoria.

3. Department of Environmental Affairs & Tourism (DEAT). 2004a. Overview of Integrated

Environmental Management, Integrated Environmental Management, Information Series

Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism, Pretoria.

4. Department of Environmental Affairs & Tourism (DEAT). 2004b. Environmental Management

Plans, Integrated Environmental Management Information Series 12. Department of

Environmental Affairs and Tourism, Pretoria.

5. Department of Environmental Affairs & Tourism (DEAT). 2004c. Strategic Environmental

Assessment (SEA), Integrated Environmental Management Information Series 10.

6. Department of Environmental Affairs & Tourism (DEAT). 2004d. Environmental Auditing,

Integrated Environmental Management Information Series 14. Department of Environmental

Affairs and Tourism, Pretoria.

7. Department of Environmental Affairs & Tourism (DEAT). 2005a. Environmental Monitoring

Committees, Integrated Environmental Management Information Series 21. Department of

Environmental Affairs and Tourism, Pretoria.

8. Department of Environmental Affairs & Tourism (DEAT). 2005b. Linking EIA and EMS, Integrated

Environmental Information Series 20. Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism, Pretoria.

9. Ecosense. 2000. Standard Construction Phase Environmental Management Plan for

implementation on small or low impact developments. Prepared for the Department of

Environmental and Cultural Affairs and Sport, Western Cape government.

10. Hill, R.C., Bowen, P.A., & Soboil J.H. 1997. The role of environmental management systems in

construction. Australian Institute of Building Papers 8: 27-39.

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