Document ID: chunk:federal_register_of_legislation:F2013C00288:reg:1850:p89
Version: federal_register_of_legislation:F2013C00288
Segment Type: reg
Provision Reference: reg 1850 (pt 89/117)
Character Range: 606139–609195

stopped and reassessed in response to the results of boundary and community monitoring.

The social impact from the excavation of odorous or noxious materials can often be mitigated by excavating only when the wind direction is such that there will be the minimum possible effect upon neighbouring populations.

Where excavation of odorous or noxious material is expected or planned as part of an assessment process, the local population and other stakeholders should:
    * be advised of the expected duration of the operation
    * be advised that the operation will last for a limited time only
    * be advised whether or not the odours may pose any potential health risk
    * be given reassurance with regard to mitigation measures being undertaken.
An effective risk communication and community engagement program is an essential consideration for sites that pose a risk of offensive or noxious odours. Information on development and implementation of community engagement and risk communication programs is provided in Schedule B8.

    15.2.2      Protection of groundwater resources
Before commencement of any drilling work, sufficient research should be undertaken to establish how much information is available regarding the geology and hydrogeology of the area to be investigated. If groundwater contamination is suspected there should be an audit of local bores. If more than one aquifer is expected, care should be taken to ensure that the potential for cross-contamination is minimised. Bores should be constructed so that different aquifers are isolated.

Licensing of monitoring bores may be a statutory requirement in some states and territories. There may also be state or territory guidelines that apply to minimum bore requirements and their decommissioning.

    15.2.3      Site run-off, drainage and sedimentation
Care must be taken to avoid surface run-off from assessment activity impacting on adjacent sites, wetlands, water courses or stormwater drainage systems. The site assessor should be aware of the topography and geology of the site under assessment, and the possibility of migration of contaminants within the site or to adjacent sites, whether wind-blown, adhering to vehicles, plant and equipment, as free-flowing liquids, as surface run-off, or in groundwater flow. Stockpiled, excavated materials awaiting removal from site may create a particular risk to the environment.

Mitigation measures may include the use of temporary (waterproof) covers, excavation of drainage or run-off water diversion trenches, collection or absorption pits, or installation of temporary barriers in the form of hay bales, geofabrics or similar materials. Temporary bunding around stockpiles, or location of stockpiles on waterproof surfaces such as asphalt or concrete, or under cover where available, should be considered. Designation of an area within which all run-off and infiltration is to be controlled in accordance with strict performance objectives (for example, zero uncontrolled run-off) should also be considered. Disposal