apia code of environmental practice

CODE OF ENVIRONMENTAL PRACTICE

ONSHORE PIPELINES

E N S U R I N G T H E F U T U R E O F A U S T R A L I A ʼ S D Y N A M I C P I P E L I N E I N D U S T R Y

jyates

Text Box

March 2009

A U S T R A L I A N P I P E L I N E I N D U S T R Y A S S O C I A T I O N

Published by Australian Pipeline Industry Association Ltd

Original document prepared by Ecos Consulting (Aust) and updated by members of the APIA Working Group on the Environment.

First Published: 1998 “Part A” (Construction) 2000 “Part B” (Operations) 2005 “Part C” (Decommissioning)

Revised:

Revision 1 October 2005 Revision 2 March 2009

© Australian Pipeline Industry Association Ltd.

This work is copyright. Apart from use as permitted under the Copyright Act 1968, no part may be reproduced by any process without prior written permission from APIA.

This publication is provided on the understanding that:

1. The authors and editors are not responsible for any errors or omissions nor the results of any actions taken on the basis of information in this work

2. The publisher is not engaged in rendering professional services.

The publisher, and the authors and editors, expressly deny all and any liability to any person, however this publication was obtained by them, in respect of anything done or omitted to be done by any such person in reliance, wholes or partial, upon the whole or any part of the contents of this publication.

Australian Pipeline Industry Association Ltd. PO Box 5416 KINGSTON ACT 2604 Phone: (02) 6273 0577 Fax: (02) 6273 0588

Email: [email protected] Web: www.apia.net.au

C O D E O F E N V I R O N M E N T A L P R A C T I C E – O N S H O R E P I P E L I N E S

Revision 2 – March October 2008 iii

TABLE OF CONTENTS

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS .......................................... V

PREFACE .................................................................. VI

1 INTRODUCTION .............................................. 1 1.1 Purpose and Scope of the Code ...................... 1 1.2 How to Use the Code ....................................... 2

2 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS ........................................................ 3

2.1 Commitment and Policy ................................... 5 2.2 Planning ........................................................... 5 2.3 Implementation of the EMS .............................. 6

2.3.1 Resources ............................................. 6 2.3.2 Structure and Responsibilities .............. 6 2.3.3 Procedures ........................................... 8 2.3.4 Training ................................................. 8

2.4 Measurement and Evaluation .......................... 9 2.5 EMS Review and Improvement ...................... 10

3 PIPELINE PLANNING AND APPROVALS PROCESS ...................................................... 11

3.1 Legislative Framework ................................... 11 3.1.1 Australian Standards for Onshore

Pipelines ............................................. 11 3.2 Pipeline Route Selection and Design ............. 13 3.3 Environmental Assessment ............................ 14 3.4 Stakeholder Consultation ............................... 15 3.5 Safety and Emergency Planning .................... 15 3.6 Project Review and Approval ......................... 16 3.7 Sustainability .................................................. 17

4 ENVIRONMENTAL GUIDELINES - CONSTRUCTION .......................................... 18

4.1 Access ............................................................ 20 4.2 Clearing .......................................................... 23 4.3 Grading........................................................... 26 4.4 Pipe Stringing and Welding ............................ 29 4.5 Trenching ....................................................... 31

4.5.1 Blasting ............................................... 33 4.5.2 Boring 34 4.5.3 Directional Drilling ............................... 34

4.6 Pipelaying and Backfilling .............................. 36 4.7 Pipeline Testing and Commissioning ............. 38

4.7.1 Hydrostatic Testing ............................. 38 4.7.2 Pipeline Purging .................................. 39

4.8 Reinstatement and Rehabilitation .................. 41 4.9 Borrow Pits ..................................................... 44 4.10 Construction Camps and Worksites ............... 46 4.11 Waste Management ....................................... 49 4.12 Watercourse Crossings .................................. 51 4.13 drainage, Erosion and Sediment Control ....... 55 4.14 Heritage – Natural and Built Environments .... 58

4.15 Noise Control .................................................. 59 4.16 Dust & other Air Emmisions Control ............... 60 4.17 Weed Control ................................................. 62 4.18 Pest and Disease Control ............................... 63 4.19 Bushfire Prevention ........................................ 65

5 ENVIRONMENTAL GUIDELINES - OPERATIONS ................................................ 67

5.1 Pipeline easement Management .................... 69 5.1.1 Access ................................................ 69 5.1.2 Soil and Ground Stability .................... 71 5.1.3 Vegetation Management ..................... 72 5.1.4 Weed Control ...................................... 74 5.1.5 Control of Diseases ............................ 76 5.1.6 Earthworks .......................................... 77 5.1.7 Land Use............................................. 78 5.1.8 fire Prevention ..................................... 79

5.2 Air Emissions .................................................. 80 5.3 Noise Emissions ............................................. 82 5.4 Heritage – Natural and Built Environments .... 83 5.5 Water Management ........................................ 84 5.6 Management of Pipeline Facilities .................. 86 5.7 Waste Management ....................................... 87 5.8 Pipeline Spill Prevention and Response ........ 89 Fuel and Chemical Storage ....................................... 90

6 PIPELINE DECOMMISSIONING ................... 91 6.1 Legislative Requirements ............................... 91

6.1.1 Pipeline Design Life ............................ 91 6.2 Decommissioning Options .............................. 91

6.2.1 Suspension ......................................... 92 6.2.2 Abandonment in place ........................ 92 6.2.3 Removal .............................................. 92

7 ENVIRONMENTAL GUIDELINES - DECOMMISSIONING .................................... 93

7.1 Planning ......................................................... 94 7.2 Consultation ................................................... 96 7.3 Product Removal and Pipe Cleaning ............. 97 7.4 Removal of Pipeline ....................................... 99 7.5 Removal of Above Ground Infrastructure ..... 100 7.6 Rehabilitation of Pipeline Corridor ................ 101 7.7 Roads, Access Tracks and Hardstand

Remediation ................................................. 102 7.8 Waste Management ..................................... 103 7.9 Easement Tenement .................................... 105 7.10 Monitoring & Auditing ................................... 106

GLOSSARY OF TERMS AND ABBREVIATIONS . 107

FURTHER READING .............................................. 110

APPENDICES ......................................................... 112 Appendix 1: About APIA .......................................... 113


iv Revision 2 - October 2008

Appendix 2: APIA Environment Policy .................... 114 Appendix 3: Legislation ........................................... 115 Appendix 4: Relevant Codes & Standards .............. 119

Appendix 5: Pipeline Inspection Checklist ............... 120 Appendix 6: Fauna Management Pro-Forma .......... 125 Appendix 7: Future Directions Considerations ........ 126


Revision 2 – March October 2008 v

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

This Code of Environmental Practice has been prepared on behalf of the Australian Pipeline Industry Association (APIA) by Ecos Consulting (Aust) Pty Ltd, under the direction of APIA’s working group on the environment. During the development of the original Code, membership of the APIA Environmental Affairs Committee included: Jim McDonald, Lindsay Goodwin, John Balint, Ken Berry, Craig Bonar, Ross Calvert, Megan Lawson, Tom Lyon, Julie Mitchell, Bruce Ride, Mike Sotak and Mark Watson.

APIA gratefully acknowledges the support and technical input of its members and the many individuals and Government agencies throughout Australia who have provided invaluable input to both the original and the first revision of the Code. In particular APIA would like to thank the following people: Susie Smith, Grant Bowley, Robert Coughlin, Bob Day, Sam Haddad, Kathy Hill, Colin Mason, Richard McDonough, Bob Otjen, Philip Toyne, Steve Tunstill, Westcoast Energy Australia, Jodi Bond, Allen Beasley, Ian Haddow, Leonie Chapman, Wendy Mathieson, Craig Bonar, Lloyd Nicholls-Goffey, Phil Morrell, Steve Milne, Zoë Bowen, Belinda Close and Terry Aust.

This second revision and update specifically focused on currency issues within the industry, particularly legislative and Australian Standards currency, standardising industry terminologies, practices and control measures, with recognition of water and other product transmission pipelines as adding to the adequacy of the above mentioned practice and process for pipeline industry.

APIA’s working group on the Code of Environmental Practice is convened and chaired by Cheryl Cartwright and Steve Davies, and includes Dan Morgan, Kim Hardy, Garry Davis, Ada Cinaglia, Oleg Morozow, Stephen Milne, Lisa Carson and Jim Nikolareas. APIA’s CoEP Working group also acknowledges the Code’s preliminary review participants, Kent Scott, Michael Quirk, Jasper Hennekens, Adam Pullen, Aidan Cresser and Andrew Groenwoldt


vi Revision 2 - October 2008

PREFACE

The pipeline industry has a vital role in the economic and environmental wellbeing of Australia. Over many decades it has evolved techniques which now place it at the forefront of best practice in the construction, operation and decommissioning of pipelines. This enviable reputation is now recognised internationally and our experience is increasingly sought in many countries.

This Code is intended to encapsulate the best techniques and methods presently available to mitigate or to eliminate the environmental impact of our activities and is based on the collective knowledge and experience of pipeline industry participants. Companies using these guidelines can be sure of achieving the highest standards of protection.

All pipeline construction is different and, consequently, it is not possible to set prescriptions on any particular course of action. Rather, we have assembled options for action, which, together, form a ‘tool kit’. It is from these tool kits that the planners and the construction teams in the field will select the options best suited to their needs.

The Code demonstrates the industry’s commitment to be a leaders in the move to ecologically sustainable development and to be an active contributor to the national goals in relation to biodiversity protection and greenhouse mitigation.

The Code is a living, evolving document, and as such, will be reviewed frequently in light of new science, technology and regulation, to ensure that it reflects the best practice available at the time. By this continuing process of improvement, we believe our industry will maintain its position at the leading edge of environment protection in Australia.

This Code has been developed by APIA in consultation with its membership, the former Australian Gas Association, the Australian Petroleum Production and Exploration Association and pipeline regulating authorities in each Australian State and Territory. APIA Members are encouraged to adopt this Code and to provide feedback on its application. Community members are also invited to provide feedback to APIA on this initiative.

Comments may be forwarded to APIA at:

Australian Pipeline Industry Association Ltd PO Box 5416 KINGSTON ACT 2604 Phone: (02) 6273 0577 Fax: (02) 6273 0588

Email: [email protected] Web: www.apia.net.au

C O D E O F E N V I R O N M E N T A L P R A C T I C E – O N S H O R E P I P E L I N E S I N T R O D U C T I O N

Revision 2 – March 2009 1

1 INTRODUCTION

Supplying energy, water and mineral resources to communities and industry, pipelines play a vital role in Australia, directly contributing to national economic growth.

In the absence of pipelines, Australia would have to rely upon expensive and impractical modes of transport, such as road, rail and shipping, to move these products. This in turn would result in higher fuel consumption, increased greenhouse gas emissions and greater safety and environmental risks.

Advances in pipeline engineering, materials manufacture and construction methods have made possible the transportation of a large range and volume of products across land and under the sea, directly to end users.

In Australia, pipelines are used for a range of transportation purposes including:

domestic and industrial water supply including recycle water

gas transportation and distribution including LNG and potentially CO2

petroleum and petrochemical liquids transportation

minerals and sand slurry transportation

sewage and wastewater removal

powerline and cable conduits.

The key benefits of pipeline transportation are:

Safety - The safety record of Australian pipeline operations, when compared with alternative means of transportation, confirms that pipelines provide significantly lower risks and hazards. This makes pipelines the preferred transport medium.

Low Environmental Impact - Alternative transportation infrastructure requires permanent modification of the landscape. Pipelines, however, are generally undetectable within a few years of construction, as the area of disturbance is encouraged to regenerate.

Unobtrusiveness - Most pipelines in Australia are buried below ground and their presence is usually unnoticed.

Reliability - Pipeline operations in Australia have displayed a high level of reliability in delivering their cargo with minimal lost transportation hours.

Cost Effectiveness - Pipelines offer a significantly cheaper alternative for the transport of bulk cargoes such as water, crude oil and natural gas.

1.1 PURPOSE AND SCOPE OF THE CODE

The Australian pipeline industry’s excellent environmental management record has been achieved through the implementation of project specific Environmental Management Plans and procedures. This Code aims to assist the industry by establishing uniform standards that encourage a consistent approach in the onshore pipeline construction, operation and decommissioning phases.

The purpose of the Code is to provide minimum environmental management standards for the Australian onshore pipeline industry, encouraging the adoption and integration of appropriate environmental management systems and procedures. Consequently, it forms the basis for the environmental management guidelines required for project approvals, contributing to the improved efficiency of regulatory approvals processes. In so doing, the Code allows Environmental Management Plans to focus on project specific management issues.

The Code provides guidance on the development and implementation of internationally recognised Environmental Management System standards and provides comprehensive environmental management guidance for onshore pipeline construction, operation and decommissioning.


2 Revision 2 – March 2009

The Code applies to the Australian pipeline industry (refer to Appendix 1); in particular, pipeline planning, design, construction, operation and decommissioning. The Code is intended to complement the principles of Australian Standards pertaining to pipelines. Although its primary focus is major cross country gas and petroleum pipelines, all pipelines including water and other infrastructure pipelines experience similar environmental issues to varying degrees, and the Code may therefore find application in many differing pipeline projects regardless of their specific purpose. The Code can be used as a framework on which to develop environmental management plans and procedures for a variety of pipelines, as well as a resource for all stages of pipeline design, approvals, construction, operation (maintenance) and decommissioning phases.

1.2 HOW TO USE THE CODE

This Code aims to provide guidance and direction in the management of the environmental aspects of pipeline planning and design, construction, operation and decommissioning.

Section 2 – Environmental Management Systems provides guidance on the development of Environmental Management Systems, consistent with the internationally recognised AS/NZS ISO 14001:1996 Environmental Management Systems – Specifications with guidance for use. Environmental Management Systems (EMS) are developed at the corporate level to guide and control an organisation’s environmental management efforts. Activity or project specific procedures, such as Environmental Management Plans, form a component of the overall EMS.

Section 3 – Pipeline Planning and Approvals Processes identifies and discusses the key elements of pipeline development planning and approvals. This section:

discusses general regulatory controls for pipelines in Australia

outlines the process of pipeline route selection and design

provides guidance on undertaking environmental impact assessments for pipelines

discusses the importance of stakeholder consultation and emergency and safety procedures.

Section 4 – Environmental Guidelines - Construction provides guidance on the application of best practice pipeline construction techniques. The procedures identified in this section may be adopted directly in their current form (e.g. for application on minor onshore pipelines), modified for incorporation into the Environmental Management Plan of a major pipeline development project or supplemented by additional site/project specific procedures. This section was referred to as “Part A” in the first edition of the Code.

Section 5 – Environmental Guidelines - Operations provides guidance on the application of best practice pipeline operating procedures. The procedures identified should be used as a reference in the preparation of an Operations Manual for major pipelines. For minor pipeline developments the Operations section of the Code may be adopted directly in its current form. This section was referred to as “Part B” in the first edition of the Code.

Section 6 – Pipeline Decommissioning identifies the issues and considerations associated with pipeline decommissioning, including legal requirements and the three main decommissioning options (suspension, abandonment or removal). To date the demand for pipeline decommissioning in Australia has not been great as the majority of pipelines remain in operation or have been ‘mothballed’ for potential future re-commissioning. Sections 6 and 7 were referred to as “Part C” in the first edition of the Code.

Section 7 – Environmental Guidelines – Decommissioning provides guidance on the application of best practice techniques for decommissioning of pipelines. The procedures identified can be used as a reference in the preparation of environmental management plans or manuals for major pipelines. For minor pipelines it is anticipated that this section of the Code may be adopted in its current form.

The Code will be reviewed and, as required, updated on a regular basis with no more than three years between reviews in order to incorporate advances in technology, legislative changes and currency of environmental control measures to industry best practice standards.

C O D E O F E N V I R O N M E N T A L P R A C T I C E – O N S H O R E P I P E L I N E S E M S


2 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS

APIA places a strong emphasis on effective environmental management through self-regulation and encourages its member companies to maintain a high standard of environmental performance. The development and implementation of an integrated Environmental Management System (EMS) is a key step towards achieving this goal through the control and management of environmental aspects and impacts.

An EMS is a comprehensive and systematic approach to the environmental management of an organisation’s activities, forming part of the overall business management process and covering all levels. APIA encourages its member companies to develop and maintain an appropriate EMS which is tailored to suit their operations and is based on recognised international standards such as AS/NZS ISO 14001 Environmental management systems – Specification with guidance for use.

The key elements of an effective EMS include:

Commitment and Policy

Planning

Implementation and Operation

Measurement and Evaluation

Review and Improvement.

This section describes the elements of an EMS and provides guidance for the development of a company specific system. Figure 1 provides diagrammatic detail of the relationship and order of the EMS elements based on AS/NZS ISO 14001.



Figure 1: Environmental Management System Model (Adapted from AS/NZS ISO 14001)



2.1 COMMITMENT AND POLICY

The success of an EMS requires commitment and positive action at all organisational levels, from the Board of Directors to the general workforce. It is also dependent upon the allocation of the necessary resources, including finance, personnel and expertise, training, materials, services and documented procedures.

A corporate environmental policy is a public statement of commitment to environmental protection. An environmental policy should:

be appropriate to the nature, scale and environmental impacts of an organisation’s activities, products or services

include an obligation to continual improvement and pollution prevention

include a commitment to comply with relevant legislation and regulations, and with other requirements to which the organisation subscribes

provide the framework for setting and reviewing environmental objectives and measurement criteria

be documented, implemented, maintained and communicated to all employees

be available to the public.

The APIA Environmental Policy is a statement of the Association’s intentions and principles regarding environmental performance. The Policy provides a framework for action and for the setting of environmental objectives and measurement criteria. A copy of the APIA Environmental Policy is presented in Appendix 2.

2.2 PLANNING

Planning is essential to any management process, leading to the identification of potential issues, the setting of objectives and measurement criteria and the development of strategies by which issues are addressed and objectives are achieved.

Environmental management planning involves three key elements:

1. The identification of environmental aspects, potential impacts, and management measures. Guidance on risk assessment is provided in Australian Standards AS 2885 and AS/NZS 4360

2. The identification of relevant Commonwealth, State and local regulatory requirements

3. The identification of relevant stakeholders including regulatory authorities, commercial interests, land management agencies, landholders and community representatives.

Setting measurable environmental objectives and establishing assessment criteria is fundamental to the planning process and should be undertaken in consultation with relevant stakeholders. Issue specific environmental objectives have been incorporated into the construction and operations procedures of this Code to provide guidance. However, they may require expansion and/or adaptation on a project specific basis. Project specific measurement criteria will need to be developed to enable assessment and evaluation of the achievement of objectives.

Further detail on the planning process for pipeline development is presented in section 3 (Pipeline Planning and Approvals Processes).



2.3 IMPLEMENTATION OF THE EMS

Achievement of environmental objectives requires resource allocation, the definition of project structure and responsibilities, the development of procedures and the training of personnel.

2.3.1 RESOURCES

Management should provide resources essential to the implementation and control of the Environmental Management System. The resources required for environmental management of a pipeline will vary according to the scale of the project, its development stage (i.e. construction or operating phase), the nature of the environment it traverses and the company’s environmental management structure.

Generally, environmental resources will include appropriately qualified environmental personnel, equipment, technology and financial resources to enable effective impact assessment, control, monitoring, auditing and reporting.

2.3.2 STRUCTURE AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Ultimate responsibility for environmental management of a pipeline lies with the pipeline proponent, however, all personnel and the contract services have environmental accountability, which should be reflected in employment and service contracts. As with safety, environmental management is a line management responsibility, in that each individual is responsible for ensuring that their work and the work of those reporting to them is conducted in accordance with required procedures.

In addition to the general line management responsibilities, the company should appoint specific management representatives who, irrespective of other responsibilities, will have responsibility for the implementation and maintenance of the EMS. In large companies, this role may be filled by an Environmental Manager, reporting to an executive manager and company Directors, respectively.

The Environmental Manager may be supported by qualified environmental practitioners who provide specialist technical support to the project team during planning and design, and in the field during construction and operation.

Figure 2 provides an indicative personnel resources and reporting structure for a major pipeline construction project.



Figure 2: Indicative Environmental Resourcing and Reporting Structure for Construction of a Major Pipeline

Note: The roles shown may be filled by either the proponent or the construction contractor, depending on the contractual structure of the project. These roles are often duplicated by representatives from both these parties.



2.3.3 PROCEDURES

Procedures are essential in providing guidance to the workforce and should include all activities that have the potential to impact on the environment. Procedures should be documented and should define tasks, identify objectives, assign responsibilities and, as far as practicable, identify timing for each activity.

Environmental procedures may be integrated into an organisation’s operations through Procedures Manuals, Site Management Plans or project Environmental Management Plans. Where possible, environmental management issues should be integrated into the general work procedures for a particular activity or task, rather than documented separately. This Code details environmental management procedures for pipeline construction, operation and decommissioning activities (refer sections 4, 5 and 7) thereby providing uniform Industry standards which may be adapted to suit project needs.

EMS procedures should be made available to all relevant personnel and should be periodically reviewed to ensure they remain current.

2.3.4 TRAINING

Training is essential to the successful implementation of an EMS. It leads to increased environmental awareness in the workforce and provides personnel with the necessary skills and knowledge to fulfil their environmental responsibilities and meet the organisation’s environmental objectives.

An effective environmental training program should be developed and implemented covering the full range of environmental management issues relevant to an organisation’s activities and should target all relevant personnel. Generally, an environmental training program should include inductions and job specific training, supported by ongoing awareness measures.

Specific training requirements should be identified during the development of site procedures and conducted on an ‘as needs’ basis. Appropriate expertise should be acquired for the development and implementation of training programs. Training attendance records should be maintained to assist program review, assessment and subsequent modification.

Environmental Induction Training

Inductions should be conducted to provide environmental management information including:

the organisation’s environmental and related policies

the organisation’s EMS and its operations

the organisation’s statutory, industry and community obligations

the individual’s general work related obligations

work procedures relevant to that site or project (e.g. waste management, vehicle access).

General environmental inductions should be conducted as part of an organisation’s overall induction program.

Job Specific Training

Job specific environmental training is designed to target particular personnel whose duties have a greater potential to result in environmental impacts, such as clear and grade equipment operators, watercourse crossing, hydrotesting and rehabilitation crews.

Where appropriate, training should be conducted in the field with sessions tailored to be task oriented addressing the environmental issues relative to a particular trade or activity, including:

erosion and sediment control

topsoil and soil management



weed control and quarantine requirements

sensitive site management

rehabilitation techniques.

The training should also identify the required performance measures and assessment criteria.

Environmental Awareness

Environmental awareness programs maintain and enhance the environmental ethic of the organisation’s corporate culture. Generally, they will focus on topics relevant to the organisation, including:

changing legislation

current environmental issues relevant to the organisation

an understanding of how specific company activities impact on the environment

industry best practices.

In this way, individuals enhance their knowledge and learn new skills, which in turn enables them to better understand and address ongoing issues and to deal with new situations.

2.4 MEASUREMENT AND EVALUATION

To permit continual improvement, environmental performance must be measured and evaluated. This is primarily achieved by assessing:

compliance with statutory requirements (e.g. legislation, licence conditions)

success in achieving stated objectives

environmental outcomes and their significance

the effectiveness of the EMS.

Measurement and evaluation of environmental performance should consist of the following components.

An Environmental Monitoring Program that qualitatively and quantitatively measures performance against stated objectives.

An Environmental Audit Program that evaluates environmental performance as well as management system success. A company should undertake internal audits, which may be supplemented by external audits by regulators, which aim to identify impacts and risks, evaluate compliance with regulatory, industry and internal obligations, and examine and assess the effectiveness of the Environmental Management System.

Environmental Reporting Procedures that provide for internal communication of environment related issues (e.g. liabilities, public complaints, compliance, incidents and audit findings); and external reporting to authorities in accordance with regulatory requirements (e.g. EMP compliance, spills, emission levels). Disclosure of environmental performance in a company’s annual report or in specific environmental reports, targeting shareholders and the general public, is recognised as an important aspect of a credible environmental management regime.

A Records Management System which governs storage and tracking of monitoring data, audit results and incident reports.

Environmental Improvement/Rectification Plans which allow the organisation to set priorities, schedules and budgets for corrective action and facilitate continual improvement.



2.5 EMS REVIEW AND IMPROVEMENT

The EMS should be reviewed at appropriate intervals to ensure its continuing suitability, relevance, adequacy and effectiveness, and to maintain continual improvement. This review process should be documented.

The review should address the possible need for changes to policy, objectives and other elements of the EMS, and should be carried out by the level of management that defined them. The review should consider workforce feedback, audit findings, incident reports and corrective actions, monitoring results, legislative changes and industry advances, community attitudes and changes to company operations, policies or practices.

APIA encourages its member companies to develop and maintain an appropriate EMS which is tailored to suit their operations and is based on recognised international standards such as AS/NZS ISO 14001 Environmental management systems – Specification with guidance for use.

C O D E O F E N V I R O N M E N T A L P R A C T I C E – O N S H O R E P I P E L I N E S P L A N N I N G


3 PIPELINE PLANNING AND APPROVALS PROCESS

Pipeline development planning is a detailed process requiring diverse specialist resources, including engineers, surveyors, drafters, planners, marketers, environmental practitioners, legal advisers, land use advisers and community relations specialists. Project assessment also involves government and community stakeholders. This section discusses typical pipeline development planning processes, providing an outline of the regulatory, environmental, social and engineering considerations. Figure 3 illustrates the basic elements of the approvals process for a major pipeline. It is a generic model which should only be used as an indicative guide, as requirements between the various jurisdictions may vary significantly.

3.1 LEGISLATIVE FRAMEWORK

Regulatory authority for the construction and operation of onshore pipelines in Australia is held by each State and Territory jurisdiction under various pipeline or transport infrastructure legislation. A list of relevant legislation is provided in Appendix 3. The legislative procedures for land access, easement acquisition and approval for the construction and operation of pipelines varies between the States and Territories, but is primarily governed by the requirement to obtain a pipeline licence.

Offshore pipelines outside State/Territory waters and within Commonwealth waters are regulated by Joint Authorities (consisting of the relevant State/Territory and Commonwealth ministers) under the Commonwealth Petroleum (Submerged Lands) Act 1967. This Act authorises the granting of a pipeline licence, and the terms and conditions of that licence.

Subsequent environmental approvals and licences may also be required, particularly under State Acts and Regulations. Commonwealth approvals and legislative procedures may also be applicable, particularly the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 and Native Title Act 1993.

Due to varying requirements and the often complex nature of pipeline approvals processes, APIA advises its members to seek clarification on the required approvals processes from personnel with experience in these processes and relevant Commonwealth, State or Territory regulatory authorities.

3.1.1 AUSTRALIAN STANDARDS FOR ONSHORE PIPELINES

The AS 2885 series of Australian Standards specify requirements for steel pipelines and associated piping components that are used to transmit single phase and multiphase hydrocarbon fluids. The basis of the series of Standards is to provide important principles, practices and practical guidelines for use by competent persons and organisations involved with high-pressure gas and petroleum pipelines. The Standards currently in this series are:

AS 2885.1–1997/Amdt 1–2001 Pipelines – Gas and liquid petroleum – Design and construction

AS 2885.2–2002 Pipelines – Gas and liquid petroleum – Welding

AS 2885.3–2001 Pipelines – Gas and liquid petroleum – Operation and maintenance

AS/NZS 2885.5–2002 Pipelines – Gas and liquid petroleum – Field pressure testing

In 1994 all Australian Governments, through the Council of Australian Governments, adopted AS 2885 as the single national standard to guide issues pertaining to the design, construction and operation of high pressure gas transmission pipelines in this country. The scope of this Code of Practice shall only be applicable where a Pipeline Licence exists or the pipeline system is designed to AS 2885.

It is strongly recommended that this code is read (and applied) with close reference to AS 2885. For pipelines other than for hydrocarbon transmission, and where additional codes or guidelines may be required, refer to Appendix 4 (p 125).



Figure 3: Key Stages in the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Process



3.2 PIPELINE ROUTE SELECTION AND DESIGN

Initial pipeline planning involves the identification of possible routes between the point of supply and delivery. The selection may be narrowed and refined at any stage following consideration of a range of safety, commercial, engineering and environmental factors.

Sometimes multiple use corridors may be utilised, where the pipeline follows a proposed or existing easement used for a range of purposes such as energy, communications and transport. Shared corridors do however, pose a series of constraints which must be overcome. These may include construction hazards associated with existing infrastructure (e.g. overhead powerlines), the potential for interference with adjacent utilities (e.g. pipelines, fibre optic cable), incremental alienation of freehold land through additional easements and potential impacts to environmentally sensitive areas within or adjacent to the corridor.

Ultimately a preferred pipeline route will be defined, based on consideration of the criteria outlined in Table 1 below. The selection of an appropriate pipeline route requires the balancing of all of these factors whilst ensuring that the project’s safety, economic, engineering and environmental objectives are met.

Table 1: Pipeline Route Selection Criteria

Safety relevant safety standards

assessment of safety risks

Commercial current market requirements

the ability to meet future consumer needs

construction and operating costs

Engineering relevant engineering, construction and operation standards

terrain, seismic and geotechnical constraints and hazards

climatic implications (cyclones, flooding, tidal and storm surges)

access requirements for construction and operation

Environmental (including social aspects)

conservation of terrestrial and aquatic flora and fauna

protection of habitat and ecosystem integrity

protection of surface and ground water quality

maintenance of surface stability

potential for successful rehabilitation

air and noise pollution

management of historical and cultural heritage values

impacts on local residents, traditional owners, existing land uses and infrastructure

zoning requirements

protection of landscape values

Legislation and policy in some States (e.g. the South Australian Native Vegetation Regulations 2003, Victorian Native Vegetation Management Framework) require that native vegetation clearance during pipeline construction is offset by protecting or replanting a larger area than cleared, in order to achieve a ‘net gain’ in native vegetation. This can result in a significant cost that should also be considered during route selection. All pipeline route selection assessments should consider the relevant legislative requirement for that state or territory. Appendix 3 can provide guidance for the relevant legislation.



3.3 ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT

The environmental assessment process for proposed pipeline projects varies between the States and Territories, however the review of the project’s potential environmental impacts is the common ultimate outcome. Pipeline approval procedures require the proponent to identify and assess potential environmental impacts and risks and to provide details of proposed management measures, usually in the form of an Environmental Management Plan or similar. Generally, an assessment of expected benefits is also required. This enables the proposed pipeline project to be considered by the relevant State or Territory authorities.

A proposed pipeline which crosses more than one jurisdiction requires a coordinated approvals process. This involves an environmental assessment which meets the statutory requirements of each jurisdiction. Commonwealth involvement in the review of proposed pipelines within the States or Territories may be initiated where the project involves Commonwealth land or issues of national environmental significance. Commonwealth approval under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC) will also be required if the project is likely to have significant impact on listed matters of national environmental significance1. If such impacts are likely, the proponent must refer the project to the Commonwealth for a decision on whether the activity is a “controlled action” and therefore requires Commonwealth approval under the Act. If there is any likelihood that EPBC approval will be required, this should be determined before commencing state processes with the aim of ensuring that the commonwealth accepts the state processes (as either a one off or under a bilateral agreement). This will avoid the possibility of being required to undertake two separate processes.

The required level and scope of environmental assessment is determined by the relevant State or Territory Minister (and the relevant Commonwealth Minister if required) following consideration of a range of factors including the scale of the project and the potential environmental impacts.

The basic elements required to enable an assessment include:

a detailed project description

justification for the project proceeding

an evaluation of project alternatives

a description of the existing environment

identification and assessment of potential environmental impacts

a statement of environmental objectives and measurement criteria

identification of environmental impact mitigation measures

assessing sustainability and a program to manage and monitor sustainability

environmental management program.

The assessment process requires consideration of environmental aspect and impact risks and leads to the formulation of management measures. A pipeline environmental aspect and impact risk assessment may consider a range of issues, including:

flora, fauna and ecology (including weeds and pathogens)

soils, geology, terrain and seismic risk

water resources

noise

1 The seven Matters of National Environmental Significance under the EPBC Act 1999 include, World Heritage properties, National Heritage places, wetlands of international importance, listed threatened species and ecological communities, migratory species protected under international agreements, Commonwealth marine areas and nuclear actions (including uranium mines), that if approved will be determined “Not a controlled action if undertaken in a particular manner”.



air quality (where significant emissions may result)

climatic factors (particularly in regions which experience extremes)

social issues (land use, economics, social change)

public risk

heritage (indigenous and historical)

visual amenity.

Preliminary investigations during the project feasibility stage and consultation with all relevant stakeholders will assist in determining appropriate studies for inclusion in the assessment.

3.4 STAKEHOLDER CONSULTATION

Stakeholder consultation should continue throughout the life of a pipeline project to ensure that the community and the proponent are adequately aware of the issues. Consultation allows the proponent to maintain an open approach to project development and operation by identifying and addressing potential environmental issues.

The key elements in an effective consultation process are:

Identification of Stakeholders - All relevant stakeholders should be identified during the project inception phase to ensure that the full range of potential issues is considered at the earliest possible stage. Stakeholders may include Governments, landholders, commercial interests, Native Title groups, Aboriginal communities, Public Interest Groups and other community representatives.

Development of a Consultation Process - The consultation process should actively seek community views and ensure that adequate means of communication are provided. Consultation may involve distribution of regular newsletters or fact sheets, press releases, public information displays, stakeholder meetings and/or toll-free information hotlines.

Identification and Addressing of Issues - Having established an effective communication process it is possible to identify, assess, evaluate and respond to issues. This process may lead to modifications in project design and management, or the provision of evidence and assurances that such issues can be adequately addressed.

A number of guidelines have been produced to assist in the consultation process and provide information on issues such as landholder rights during land access negotiations (e.g. APIA / Victorian Farmers Federation (2004) Pipeline Easement Guidelines, Ministerial Council on Mineral and Petroleum Resources (2005) Draft Principles for Engagement with Communities and Stakeholders). Such publications should be consulted for guidance on consulting and distributing information to landholders and stakeholders. In some States (e.g. South Australia and Victoria), pipeline legislation requires that landholders are provided with information documents that have been submitted for review and/or approved by the regulatory agency.

3.5 SAFETY AND EMERGENCY PLANNING

Safety and emergency response have both social and environmental implications and for this reason they are often considered during the approvals process. AS 2885 and AS/NZS 4360 provide guidance on the conduct of a safety risk assessment and subsequent development of a Safety Management Plan (SMP) for high pressure gas and liquid petroleum pipelines. Additionally, AS/NZS 4360: Risk Management is applicable to all transmission pipelines and AS2885 can also be acknowledged for use in water and other high pressure pipelines.

A Safety Management Plan should be developed for pipeline construction and operation based on the findings of the risk assessment and prior to the commencement of construction. The SMP should address all relevant safety issues, outlining appropriate incident prevention and response measures. A key component of the SMP should be guidelines for the response to emergencies, such as a spill or fire, giving consideration to environmental as well as safety issues.



Typical pipeline construction corridor for a small transmission pipeline (200 mm diameter). Ecos

Typical pipeline construction corridor for a large transmission pipeline (>800 mm diameter). MacDow

In addition to construction and operational risks, there should be consideration of the potential for sabotage or terrorism and the risk of disruption where the economics of a region relies on the production or use of oil and gas or the supply of basic human needs such as water.

3.6 PROJECT REVIEW AND APPROVAL

Legislative planning procedures for pipeline developments require government review and approval. The impact assessment prepared will be considered by relevant government authorities, prior to a decision being made regarding the granting of permits and licences. For major projects, public review of the assessment report may be required. This process allows members of the public to comment on the acceptability, or otherwise, of the proposed pipeline project. Public comments are considered by government prior to deciding on whether the project may proceed.



3.7 SUSTAINABILITY

Sustainability is a powerful global, national and moral imperative influencing Australia’s construction industry. With increasing community concern for the environment, social impacts, global warming and increased focus on energy consumption in a carbon regulated world, the construction industry will need to take steps to ensure the development of sustainable facilities and operations. Corporate Sustainability (environmental, economic and social) is a key focus among most business operations and the positive approach to achieving sustainability can comfortably be adopted into the Pipeline construction or operational undertaking of a company. Embracing Corporate Sustainability principles within pipeline projects will contribute to achieving a more financially sustainable project and operation whilst achieving established social and environmental objectives and accords with International Agreements, National Legislation and standard codes of practice. The appropriate time for considering the sustainability of Pipeline facilities or operations is within the Planning and Approvals phase which can then be activated and implemented within the pipeline Design and Construction phases.



4 ENVIRONMENTAL GUIDELINES - CONSTRUCTION

Onshore pipeline construction involves a range of specialist tasks, which are generally undertaken by pipeline construction companies and specialist service companies, and occur in a defined construction corridor (Figure 4). This section addresses the many construction activities and environmental management issues that may be relevant to a particular pipeline project and it presents a range of environmental management guidelines which represent good industry practice. The guidelines have been developed in consideration of the full range of project objectives including safety, environmental, engineering and economic factors.

These guidelines may be used directly to guide a company’s operations or as a basis for the development of project specific2 or company specific pipeline procedures. Additional site specific guidelines may be required to address those issues which may be unique to a particular pipeline. Site specific guidelines may be captured in an environmental “line list”, which sorts sites with specific environmental management requirements by position along the pipeline.

Ultimate environmental responsibility lies with the pipeline licensee. It is therefore imperative that the licensee has in place management systems which ensure contractor performance complies with licence obligations.

An important factor in reducing environmental impact is the planning of pipeline construction so that it occurs, as far as reasonably practicable, at a time when environmental impacts will be lower. For example, construction in wetland areas during dry months would result in reduced impacts. Another important factor is maintaining a high rate of progress of construction. Often the least environmental impact during the construction of watercourse crossings is achieved by open cut trenching techniques as they can be completed in one third of the time of the dam and pump alternatives. Similarly, the risk of soil erosion and sedimentation is greatly reduced by the length of the exposure period and is proportional to the time required to complete construction to the rehabilitation stage.

2 Most States and Territories require the preparation and approval of an Environmental Management Plan (EMP) prior to construction. Although the contents may vary between jurisdictions, an EMP typically includes descriptions of legislative requirements, the environmental management system, roles and responsibilities, monitoring, auditing and reporting, as well as detailed guidelines for specific construction activities, such as presented in this Code.

C O D E O F E N V I R O N M E N T A L P R A C T I C E – O N S H O R E P I P E L I N E S C O N S T R U C T I O N


Figure 4: Typical construction corridor layout for small diameter pipeline construction

Figure 5: Typical construction corridor layout for large diameter pipeline construction



4.1 ACCESS

During construction, access to project areas, such as pipeline easements, work and camp sites is required on a regular basis by transport, construction and inspection personnel.

This section details the environmental management measures which shall be considered in obtaining access to the pipeline corridor in addition to the safety requirements stipulated by legislation and Safety Management Plans.

ACCESS – KEY ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES

Increased safety hazard resulting from increases in traffic volume

Access track proliferation

Soil compaction, erosion and sediment release to land and water

Disturbance of problematic soils such as dispersive, acid sulphate or contaminated soils

Potential modification to surface water flows (drainage lines and streams)

Disturbance of significant flora and wildlife habitat

Incursion of disease, weeds, vermin or destructive influences to the site

Temporary disruption to landholders (access, noise and dust)

Degradation of existing road infrastructure

Unauthorised third party access to previously inaccessible areas

ACCESS – ENVIRONMENTAL OBJECTIVES

1. To minimise disturbance to native flora

2. To minimise impacts on fauna

3. To minimise impacts on soil and water

4. To avoid adverse impacts on cultural and historic heritage sites

5. To minimise impacts on visual amenity

6. To minimise disruption to landholders and third parties (sensitive receptors)

7. To achieve satisfactory road and site rehabilitation

ACCESS – ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT

Activity Management Measures

Planning and Design Access planning shall include:

Consultation with relevant landholders and regulatory authorities regarding the utilisation of existing roads or tracks, and the selection of new access routes and the subsequent development of an appropriate Traffic Management Plan.

Consultation with relevant landholders and regulatory authorities regarding any special management measures required for an area or property such as weed or disease management provisions, quarantine provisions, certified area provisions (e.g. organic, disease/weed free).

Utilisation of existing roads and tracks where practicable.

The location and design of new access tracks and roads to avoid high risk sites or sensitive receptors such as:

areas of significant natural heritage (e.g. remnant vegetation, wildlife habitat)

indigenous and historic heritage sites

homesteads or residential urban areas

sensitive or problem soil/geotechnical areas (e.g. dispersive clay, Acid Sulphate Soil, contaminated soil, foreshore dunes, steep unstable slopes,), where practical.



areas of serious weed infestation or known diseases (e.g. dieback, phylloxera)

creating visual impacts in sensitive areas. Mitigation may include concealed entrances and doglegs to minimise line of sight.

Application of relevant legislative and design requirements where appropriate. Pipeline access shall be designed and maintained to accommodate the intended traffic volume.

Where practicable, pipeline construction activities should be scheduled to minimise potential impacts on land holders.

Access Construction Vegetation clearance shall be minimised, i.e. trees avoided or trimmed as an alternative to clearing.

Cleared vegetation shall be stockpiled in windrows adjacent to temporary access for respreading during reinstatement, or managed in accordance with measures detailed in section 4.8 Reinstatement and Rehabilitation.

Topsoil shall be removed prior to road surface preparation and either stockpiled in windrows adjacent to temporary access for respreading during reinstatement or stockpiled for use at other locations where permanent access will remain.

The creation of access tracks shall not result in erosion or sediment release to land or water. Appropriate management actions include:

storage of topsoil and spoil away from areas of surface water flow

installation of erosion and sediment control structures as required (e.g. table drains, erosion berms, silt fences and sediment basins - refer to section 4.13 Erosion and Sediment Control)

avoiding watercourse crossings where practicable, or installing appropriate structures where crossings are unavoidable - refer to section 4.12 Watercourse Crossings (Vehicle Access).

In sensitive environmental areas, site specific environmental management procedures shall be adopted to minimise environmental impacts (e.g. rolling of access tracks on land with high erosion potential).

Appropriate actions shall be employed to manage the potential effects of Acid Sulphate Soils, such as avoidance or undertaking treatment in affected areas.

Consideration shall be given to employing access measures which minimise impacts to landholders such as the installation of gates and cattle grids to permit access to and along pipeline easements, and temporary fencing to control livestock.

Property fences and gates shall be installed, maintained and reinstated to a condition equal or better than the pre-existing condition.

Appropriate measures shall be employed to prevent surface damage to public roads (e.g. limiting dirt track access during wet weather and protecting bitumen surfaces where tracked machinery is required to cross roads).

Where vehicles are required to cross existing utilities (e.g. pipelines, fibre optic cables) protective measures such as berming or bridging may be necessary, particularly on above ground utilities.

Access Management Appropriate measures shall be applied to ensure vehicles remain on designated access roads and tracks, and within defined a pipeline construction area and associated work/camp sites (e.g. workforce education, signs, boundary markers and fences).

Vehicles shall travel at safe speeds that minimise environmental risks.

Vehicle parking shall be restricted to the pipeline construction area and other designated areas. Parking under trees shall be discouraged to prevent root zone soil compaction causing root damage and impairing water infiltration into the soil.

Appropriate weed and pathogen hygiene measures shall be applied, if necessary, in problem areas to prevent spreading.



As a general rule, gates shall be left as they are found or as sign posted. If closed gates are required to be opened for extended periods (e.g. convoy passage) they shall not be left unattended unless otherwise agreed with the landholder.

During construction, access infrastructure shall be maintained to appropriate standards.

Where there is a potential for land degradation, access along the easement during wet weather shall be undertaken in consultation with the relevant landholder. Similarly, where access on private roads will lead to road degradation, it shall be undertaken in consultation with the relevant landholder.

Reinstatement of Access

Upon completion of pipeline construction, temporary access tracks shall be closed and rehabilitated to a condition compatible with the surrounding land use.

Public and private access tracks utilised during construction shall be reinstated to their pre-construction condition or as otherwise agreed with the relevant landholder or authority.

Rehabilitation procedures shall include:

removing all waterway crossing structures and stabilising stream banks and beds, as required, with suitable materials (e.g. rock rip-rap, geotextiles, hydromulch)

removal of excess rock or fill material

recontouring the road to match the profile of the adjacent landscape and stabilising drainage and road cut and fill

ripping along the contours to relieve compaction and promote regeneration. Figure eight or zigzag rip lines may be appropriate in flat to low gradients to prevent rilling along the road

respreading stockpiled topsoil over the rehabilitation area

weed management where required – refer to section 4.17 Weed Control

managing cleared vegetation in accordance with measures outlined in section 4.8 Reinstatement and Rehabilitation

implementing appropriate regeneration/revegetation measures in accordance with section 4.8 Reinstatement and Rehabilitation (Regeneration and Revegetation), taking into consideration site specific characteristics which may affect regrowth and stabilisation success

installation of erosion and sediment control measures (e.g. erosion berms and silt fences) as required, particularly on moderate to steep grades (refer section 4.13 Erosion and Sediment Control)

appropriate measures which discourage access to restored tracks such as signs, fences, earth mounds or ditches, or other physical barriers such as rocks or cleared vegetation. These may be temporary or permanent measures.



Trimming overhanging vegetation on a pipeline corridor as part of clearing activities. Ecos

4.2 CLEARING

Clearing of the pipeline construction area involves the removal of trees, shrubs, stumps and other obstacles to provide access for pipeline construction. Disturbance to native vegetation and wildlife habitat is avoided or minimised to the greatest extent practicable through careful route selection and the application of appropriate management procedures.

The working space required or permitted for pipeline construction is generally dependent upon:

maintaining appropriate safety standards

construction equipment and vehicle movement

environmental sensitivities

terrain and geotechnical constraints

pipeline diameter and trench depth

the number of pipelines being installed

proximity to existing infrastructure such as roads

maximising construction productivity

The normal working width in Australia for a major pipeline is approximately 20-30 metres, however this may vary depending upon project or site specific considerations and should be minimised where practical.

CLEARING – KEY ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES

Soil erosion

Sediment release to land or water

Removal of significant flora and wildlife habitat

Fragmentation of wildlife habitat and dislocation of wildlife corridors

Increased potential for feral animal movement along new corridors

Increased potential for weed species introduction (edge effect)

Disturbance to heritage sites

Potential impacts to visual amenity


Rehabilitation of cleared areas

CLEARING – ENVIRONMENTAL OBJECTIVES

1. To minimise disturbance to flora




5. To minimise impacts on sites of cultural and historic heritage significance

6. To minimise disruption of landholders

7. To optimise rehabilitation success



CLEARING – ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT


Planning The pipeline proponent shall specify the pipeline construction working width for the entire length of the pipeline. This may vary at different locations. Note: while the main clearing area is 20 - 30m, turn-arounds and working areas (especially near watercourses) may need to be in the order of 50m on the right of way.

Clearing boundaries shall be delineated on project drawings and/or in the field to define the extent of authorised clearing. Additional space may be required to accommodate soil and spoil stockpiles at locations where additional spoil will be generated (e.g. bell holes, corners, deep crossings).

Clearing is a last resort – retention of vegetation, selective clearing, trimming and fauna spotting is the first priority.

Relevant stakeholders and landholders shall be consulted to assist in minimising impacts on property management and loss of amenity.

Consideration should be given to retention of significant patches or individual trees within the approved corridor, where there are significant natural, heritage or visual amenity values to protect

Clearing activities shall be scheduled to minimise the time between initial clearing and rehabilitation.

Where a pipeline passes through sensitive environmental areas, site specific environmental management procedures shall be adopted to minimise environmental impacts.

Clearing slopes leading to watercourses shall be delayed, where practicable, until construction of the crossing is imminent, or alternative measures are employed to prevent and/or minimise erosion and sedimentation risk.

Measures shall be employed which identify, make safe and protect other infrastructure, such as power lines, etc.

Consideration shall be given to the control of feral animal movements along newly cleared corridors which provide new access to sensitive environments.

Vegetation Clearing Vegetation clearance shall be minimised as far as practicable, particularly at watercourses (e.g. chainsaws should be used to trim branches and the width of clearing minimised).

Wildlife habitat fragmentation effects can be minimised by maintaining tree canopy connectivity where practicable, particularly at watercourses and roadside remnants. Install habitat nest boxes prior to clearing works.

In the case of protected or retained vegetation within the pipeline construction area, where there is significant natural, heritage or visual amenity values to protect, the vegetation shall be marked with yellow3 flagging or marker tape to indicate that it should be avoided. Marker paint shall not be used.

Avoid disturbing roots or compacting soil in the drip zone of other vegetation to be retained.

Clearing shall aim to retain the maximum amount of root stock within the pipeline construction area. Slashing may be undertaken as a means of vegetation clearing, particularly in sown pastures or at water courses.

3 To standardise procedures within the pipeline industry, yellow flagging (not paint) should be used to identify environmentally sensitive ‘no go’ areas and features (i.e. natural and cultural heritage). Red, or red based colours such as orange or pink, shall not be used for environmental flagging. One in 12 men have a colour vision deficiency (or colour blindness), the most common being red/green, making it difficult to see red flagging from a distance on green backgrounds (e.g. vegetation).



Cleared vegetation shall be stockpiled separately in a manner which:

facilitates respreading or salvaging - refer section 4.8 Reinstatement and Rehabilitation

does not impede vehicles, stock or wildlife

avoids damage to adjacent live vegetation (e.g. trees shall be felled onto the easement away from standing timber).

Surface rock removed from the easement shall be stockpiled in an adjacent area, either for respreading, use at another location as rip-rap or disposal as appropriate.



Grading of pipeline corridors. W. Mathieson / Ecos

4.3 GRADING

Grading involves the removal of topsoil and, in some instances, sub-soil from the pipeline construction area and associated work and camp sites. Topsoil, also referred to as the A horizon, is the surface soil horizon of mixed organic and mineral composition.

Grading is required where:

construction is likely to unduly damage topsoil and inhibit regeneration or primary production activities;

the topography does not permit safe and practical access to and along the pipeline construction area or work sites; or

the soil conditions cannot accommodate construction activities.

Generally, where topsoil removal is required, it shall be removed down to the next soil horizon (i.e. sub-soil). The extent and depth of topsoil removal from the pipeline construction area (e.g. full stripping or partial stripping) shall be determined on the basis of best practice for the specific site, in consultation with landholders and relevant regulatory authorities as appropriate.

In some instances, best practice will involve the removal of topsoil from the entire pipeline construction area to protect it from degradation due to traffic. In other instances, topsoil stripping shall be restricted to the trench line, so as not to expose highly erodible subsoils.

GRADING – KEY ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES

Soil erosion and sediment release to land or water

Degradation of soil structure through soil mixing, compaction and topsoil loss

Disturbance of Problematic Soils such as Acid Sulphate Soil, dispersive soil or contaminated soil and consequent release of acid or contaminated leachate

Removal of wildlife habitat and Rehabilitation success

Disturbance to Cultural Heritage

Increased potential for the spread of weeds and pathogens

Potential impacts to visual amenity


Potential temporary disruption to existing land uses

GRADING – ENVIRONMENTAL OBJECTIVES

1. To minimise soil degradation, particularly topsoil

2. To minimise sedimentation and acidification of land and water

3. To minimise disturbance to native flora






7. To minimise disruption of landholders and third parties

8. To optimise rehabilitation success

9. To minimise the time between clearing and rehabilitation through progressive clearing

GRADING – ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT


Planning The period of time between clearing and grading shall be minimised to prevent soil erosion.

The period of time between grading and reinstatement shall be minimised to prevent soil erosion and allow commencement of rehabilitation works.

Prior to grading, the appropriate soils management applications (i.e. width and depth of topsoil stripping - refer to Table 2 below) shall be determined by a qualified land management adviser.

Grading Graded soil shall be stockpiled separately from other materials (e.g. vegetation), where it can be readily recovered for respreading and where it will not be lost through wind or water erosion or other means.

Graded soil shall not be stockpiled where it has the potential to result in sedimentation or acidification of land or surface water (e.g. on slopes which drain immediately to a watercourse). Topsoil containment measures (e.g. berms and sediment fencing) shall be used as necessary. Acid Sulphate Soils should be identified and stockpiled within bunding to prevent mixing with other soils.

Stockpiled soil shall not impede the movement of stock and vehicles across the pipeline construction area. Stockpile breaks shall coincide with designated access roads or tracks, fence lines and gaps in stockpiled vegetation.

Grading and stockpiling of soil shall not, as far as practicable, impede surface drainage or waterfowls.

Soil and surface stability shall be maintained at all times (e.g. cut and fill excavation shall be shaped to maintain slope stability and temporary erosion control berms; drains and sediment barriers shall be installed as necessary and maintained until final construction reinstatement is completed).

Grading of watercourse beds and banks shall be minimised, leaving an undisturbed organic mat within the riparian zone, or delayed until construction of the crossing is imminent, thus preventing sediment input into watercourses - refer section 4.12 Watercourse Crossings for detail.

Topsoil stripping measures commonly applied in pipeline construction are listed in Table 2. Prior to the commencement of grading activities appropriate topsoil management techniques shall be determined in consultation with affected landholders and relevant regulatory authorities. It may be necessary to adapt these techniques based on site specific requirements.



Table 2: Common Topsoil Stripping Measures

Topsoil Management Technique

Description

Trench line Topsoil is graded to a blade width over the trench line only and the soil stockpiled in windrows adjacent to the pipeline construction area.

Trench And Work Side Topsoil is graded over the trench and work side only.

Trench And Spoil Side Topsoil is graded over the trench and spoil side only.

Full Stripping Topsoil is graded over the full width of the pipeline construction area

No Stripping Direct trench excavation with no topsoil stripping



Pipe stringing. Ecos

4.4 PIPE STRINGING AND WELDING

Following clear and grade activities, pipe materials are delivered to site. The term pipe stringing is used to describe the delivery of pipe to the pipeline construction area in preparation for welding into continuous lengths (typically up to 1 km long) known as pipe strings.

Each weld is inspected using x-ray or ultrasonic equipment. The surface at the joint is then cleaned by grit blasting or wire brushing and coated with a tape wrapping, plastic sleeve or protective coating to inhibit corrosion.

PIPE STRINGING AND WELDING – KEY ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES

Dust and noise emissions resulting from pipe transport

Temporary obstruction of other land uses

Damage to existing road networks and infrastructure

Potential fire hazard associated with construction welding and grinding

Appropriate management of waste materials

Pipe stringing impeding landholder access or fauna movements including stock

PIPE STRINGING AND WELDING – ENVIRONMENTAL OBJECTIVES

1. To minimise disruption to landholders and third parties

2. To avoid the risk of bushfire associated with construction activities

3. To avoid damage to existing road networks

PIPE STRINGING AND WELDING – ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT


Planning Consultation shall be undertaken with relevant landholders and regulatory authorities with regard to locating pipe storage and worksites - refer section 4.10 Construction Camps and Worksites.

Pipe transport routes shall be determined in consultation with relevant regulatory authorities, e.g. government and traffic authorities and landholders, with a view to minimising hazards, road damage and adverse impacts.

Pipe Stringing Refer also to section 4.1 Access.

Appropriate measures shall be taken as required to minimise pipe transport traffic related dust and noise.

Pipe shall be strung, allowing gaps for vehicle, stock and wildlife access across the line of pipe. Gaps shall coincide with access roads or tracks, stock and wildlife trails, boundary fences and gaps in stockpiled vegetation; and shall be located in consultation with relevant landholders.

Pipe Welding All welding, welding procedures, welder qualifications, the use of welding consumables, and the removal of weld defects shall conform to relevant Australian Standards.

Precautions shall be taken to minimise fire risk in accordance with the requirements of relevant fire protection legislation and regulations - refer sect 4.19 Bushfire Prevention.



Pipe welding. Ecos

Joint coating. Ecos

Consultation with relevant local fire and emergency service authorities - should also be undertaken.

Welded pipe sections (pipe strings) shall not impede vehicle, stock or wildlife passage. Gaps shall be left which coincide with the gaps in the topsoil and vegetation stockpiles, designated access tracks/roads and fence lines, and shall be located in consultation with relevant landholders.

The ingress of dust, wildlife or other objects into welded pipe sections, particularly at night, shall be prevented by appropriate means such as ‘night caps’ placed over open pipe string ends.

Radiography of pipeline welds shall be performed in a manner which ensures that chemicals and other associated wastes are contained and appropriately disposed of in accordance with regulatory requirements.

Associated consumables such as cleaning solvents, primer and dangerous goods shall be suitably stored.

Associated waste materials (e.g. welding stubs, wooden pipe skids, sand bags, radiography chemicals, packaging) shall be managed in accordance with section 4.11 Waste Management.



Trenching machine excavating trenchline. Ecos

4.5 TRENCHING

Trenching may be undertaken either prior to, during or after pipe stringing, depending upon project schedules, terrain and other such logistical factors. The trench for buried pipelines is excavated to varying depths depending upon:

the product being transported (e.g. gas, petroleum liquids, water)

the maximum operating pressure of the pipeline

the nature of the terrain through which the pipeline passes (e.g. rock, open pasture, rivers)

the proximity to infrastructure and buried utilities (e.g. roads, fibre optic cable)

land use and the potential risk of third party interference (e.g. rupture during excavation)

Trench depths may be specified in the relevant legislation and Australian Standards.

TRENCHING – KEY ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES

Soil erosion and sedimentation of land and water (inc. discharge waters)

Acid Sulphate Soil or contaminated soil disturbance

Potential for stock and wildlife entering the open trench

Disturbance to sub-surface heritage sites


TRENCHING – ENVIRONMENTAL OBJECTIVES

1. To minimise adverse impacts on soil, in particular, topsoil loss through mixing or burial

2. To minimise adverse impacts on water

3. To minimise adverse impacts on stock and wildlife



6. To minimise environmental risk associated with third party interference

TRENCHING – ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT


Planning The period of time between grading of the pipeline construction area and trenching shall be minimised to reduce the potential for erosion of exposed soils.

Where trenching is required in contaminated soils (e.g. hazardous chemical disposal sites, potential or known acid sulphate soil areas), appropriate site specific management guidelines shall be developed in consultation with relevant regulatory authorities.

Third party infrastructure, such as pipelines and fibre optic cables, shall be identified and appropriate protection measures applied.

Trenching Minimise trench width and depth to reduce spoil generation where possible. Use of trench shoring or other alternative as practical.

Minimise length of time trench is open or pipe exposed. Backfill to commence immediately following pipelay.



Where well point de-watering is necessary to stabilise saturated soils (e.g. high watertable areas such as floodplains), appropriate water quality management and erosion control measures shall be adopted for discharge water. Erosion protection may include water discharge flow dissipaters, such as rock rip-rap, geotextiles or straw bales - also see section 4.13 Erosion and Sediment Control.

Appropriate management measures shall be adopted when trenching in problem soil areas, e.g. dryland salinity affected areas or Acid Sulphate Soils.

Trench spoil shall not be permitted to mix with stockpiled topsoil and vegetation.

Spoil stockpiles shall be located so as to minimise loss of material from water and wind erosion and avoid subsequent sediment release. Sediment control measures, such as silt fencing and stockpile berms, may be necessary, particularly for works adjacent to watercourses and other potentially sensitive environments.

Spoil stockpiles shall not impede natural or constructed surface drainage channels or access tracks.

Erosion within the trench shall be prevented utilising trench plugs at appropriate intervals. Trench plugs will also permit the movement of vehicles, stock and wildlife across the open trench (and permit wildlife to exit the open trench), and shall coincide with gaps in stockpiled soil and vegetation material.

Measures shall be adopted to prevent fauna entrapment within the pipeline trench, such as:

minimising the period of time the trench is open, particularly in fauna habitat areas

constructing trench plugs with slopes less than 45o to provide exit ramps for fauna

installing additional trench plugs at greater than normal frequencies in areas identified as known or potential wildlife habitat (e.g. native forest areas)

branches, hessian sacks, ramped gangplanks or similar to be used to create ‘ladders’ to enable fauna to exit the trench

surveillance of the open trench in sensitive areas and the removal of wildlife from the trench by appropriately trained personnel.

Where the pipeline crosses sensitive coastlines, major watercourses, bitumen highways, active railways, or sensitive areas, alternative crossing methods such as boring or horizontal directional drilling may be undertaken.



4.5.1 BLASTING

In rock terrain where the use of conventional excavation or ripping equipment is not feasible it may be necessary to use controlled blasting. The handling, storage and use of explosives is governed by prescriptive State and Territory legislation and Australian Standards.

BLASTING – KEY ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES

Impacts on terrestrial and aquatic fauna

Noise disturbance

Appropriate management of debris

Infrastructure damage

BLASTING – ENVIRONMENTAL OBJECTIVES

1. To minimise adverse impacts on fauna and significant habitat areas

2. To minimise resulting noise impacts

3. To safely contain blast debris

4. To avoid damage to adjacent infrastructure

BLASTING – ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT


Planning and Design A Blasting Operations Plan shall be prepared, detailing the proposed method of blasting, including safety, drill pattern, charges, explosives, detonation methods, debris control, etc.

Prior notice shall be given to adjacent residents, nearby work crews and other potentially affected parties (e.g. adjacent utility operators) in accordance with regulatory requirements.

Blasting program design shall aim to be within the appropriate noise comfort and vibration criteria.

Blasting in ecologically sensitive areas shall incorporate appropriate precautions to protect ecological resources. For example, where possible, blasting should be scheduled to avoid sensitive lifecycle periods of fauna species (e.g. breeding, nesting, migration). Smaller and/or staggered charges shall be used where practicable.

Blasting Operations Blasting procedures shall be strictly monitored and controlled for compliance with relevant State or Territory legislation and Australian Standards.

Measures, such as appropriate blast design, blanketing and collaring, shall be employed to prevent possible damage to nearby structures, utilities and sensitive habitat/fauna.

Rock that is not required for backfill shall be retrieved, where it is incongruous with the surrounding environment, and utilised for alternative purposes (e.g. erosion control rip-rap at stream banks or water discharge areas, wildlife habitat creation) or appropriately disposed of.

Blasting refuse, such as containers, cartridges, caps and wire, shall be retrieved for disposal at an approved waste depot. (Note: in some States, this may not be allowed and the waste may need to be burnt at the camp site if it is not permitted to be transported to or disposed of at the local waste depot).

Environmental Monitoring of Noise, vibration and dust resulting from controlled blasts in areas where sensitive receptors are impacted. Refer to Sect 4.15 & 4.16 Noise and Dust



4.5.2 BORING

The technique of boring is commonly applied in construction to install pipelines beneath infrastructure such as roads, railways, buried utilities (e.g. fibre optic cable) and, in some circumstances, for watercourse crossings. It is a low impact technique involving the drilling of short distances from below ground within an enlarged trench area, or bell hole, located within the pipeline construction area (see Figure 5). Bell holes are required on each side of the road or railway (or watercourse). The bell hole that accommodates the thrust bore rig is typically 25m or more long and 4-5m wide to allow it to hold the rig plus a full length of pipe. The receiving bell hole is typically 4-5m long and 3m wide.

The feasibility of a bore is limited by site conditions, including geology, landform and soil type and depth and width of the watercourse crossing.

Figure 5: Schematic profile of a bored crossing

Associated environmental issues are limited to the management of excavated bell hole spoil, and aim to prevent sediment release to land and water and achieve appropriate management of waste materials. This includes ensuring that there is sufficient space at the bell hole site to accommodate the excavated spoil and prevent its encroachment onto adjacent vegetation and topsoil. Spoil stockpiles shall be managed in accordance with the guidelines detailed for trenching activities (refer section 4.5 Trenching), whilst waste management guidelines are presented in section 4.11 Waste Management).

4.5.3 DIRECTIONAL DRILLING

Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) is generally used to cross major watercourses (refer section 4.12 Watercourse Crossings) or at sites where standard open cut methods are not feasible or are environmentally unsuitable. It may also be used for road or railway crossings or to facilitate coastal crossings where a pipeline crosses beneath the intertidal or shoreline region (i.e. ‘land to water’ crossings). The feasibility of using HDD is strongly limited by site conditions such as soil stability, slope, access, available workspace and the nature of subsurface rock.

The installation of the pipeline by HDD involves drilling a hole at a shallow angle beneath the surface, then pulling the welded pipe string back through the drill hole (Figure 6). Drilling is conducted by a specially designed drill rig, operated by a specialist contractor. A variety of associated equipment and infrastructure is required. Excavations are typically required for a cuttings settlement pit and drilling mud containment pits at the drill entry and exit points.

The size of the HDD rig and its associated footprint depends upon the size of the pipe, subsurface geology and the length of the drill. Smaller rigs are often used, particularly for short drills such as road crossings, and these are often self-contained (e.g. on the back of a semi-trailer).



Large horizontal directional drilling rig on pad. Ecos

Small horizontal directional drilling rig. Ecos

Figure 6: Schematic profile of Horizontal Directional Drilling

Although horizontal directional drilling may reduce above ground impacts, the technique introduces additional environmental considerations such as drill site sediment control (including drilling fluids), waste management, noise and increased duration of construction and workforce numbers. These issues are addressed in sections 4.10 Construction Camps and Worksites, 4.11 Waste Management and 4.15 Noise Control.

To address these issues, site specific management procedures are usually prepared for a HDD site prior to drilling.



Pipe being lowered into the trench Ecos

4.6 PIPELAYING AND BACKFILLING

The welded pipe string is lowered into the excavated trench using side-boom tractors. Prior to pipelaying, it may be necessary to dewater the trench if rain water or groundwater has accumulated.

Padding machines are often used to sift the excavated subsoil in order to provide fine material to pad beneath and on top of the buried pipe and protect the pipe coating. In some instances (e.g. very rocky soils) imported sand or foam pillows may be used for padding.

PIPELAYING AND BACKFILLING – KEY ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES

Soil erosion and sedimentation of land and water

Management of potentially contaminated trench water discharge

Entrapment of stock and wildlife in the open trench


PIPELAYING AND BACKFILLING – ENVIRONMENTAL OBJECTIVES

1. To minimise adverse impacts on soil and water

2. To minimise adverse impacts on stock and wildlife


PIPELAYING AND BACKFILLING – ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT


Planning Where backfill is required in contaminated soils (e.g. hazardous chemical disposal sites, potential or known acid sulphate soil areas), appropriate site specific management guidelines shall be developed in consultation with relevant regulatory authorities.

Pipelaying The removal and subsequent discharge of water from the trench shall not result in erosion or pollutants (such as sediment, saline, contaminated or acid sulphate affected water) being released to land or water. Water quality shall be monitored and appropriate discharge options adopted.

Where trench de-watering is required, appropriate measures shall be undertaken to protect water quality which may include:

Obtaining permission from the relevant landholder/authority to discharge

Assessing water prior to disposal to determine if it meets the relevant EPA standards and ANZEC criteria

Containing and treating water onsite or removing water off-site for treatment/disposal if it does not meet criteria for disposal on-site

Dewatering to stabilised ground via the use of sprays or onto geofabric lined structures to prevent erosion

Prevention of discharge of run-off entering surface water bodies unless permitted by relevant authority

Use of sediment traps where required

Bunding of dewatering pumps to prevent fuel spill contamination.



Padding machine returning spoil to the trench. Ecos

Appropriate measures shall be taken to protect the pipe coating from damage when in the trench, such as trench bedding and padding material (e.g. sand or screened trench soil placed around the pipe), the use of protective fabrics or the application of concrete coating over the pipe corrosion coating.

Backfilling The open trench shall be checked for fauna prior to backfill, and any trapped animals removed.

The period of time between trenching and backfilling shall be minimised to prevent erosion of exposed soils as well as trench collapse and to minimise risk and inconvenience to third parties associated with the open trench.

Subsurface water flows and erosion along the backfilled trench shall be prevented by appropriate means such as, trench blocks (i.e. trench/sack breakers) and compaction of backfilled soils.

Appropriate measures shall be employed to prevent obstruction of sub-surface water flows in side slopes (e.g. natural seepage zones) across the trench, such as the installation of permeable zones within the backfill adjacent to the seepage, or other forms of subsoil drainage.

Plastic warning tape, used to alert third parties to the presence of a buried pipeline, and concrete slabs may be laid within the trench above the pipeline as a precaution in order to prevent damage during future excavation.

Where practicable, soils shall be replaced in order of excavation. Where acidic subsoils are encountered and they are backfilled, they must not come into contact with the pipeline. Appropriate measures shall be adopted for managing problem soils, e.g. saline or acid sulphate soils.

Backfill soils shall be compacted to a level consistent with surrounding soils, with the aim of preventing trench subsidence. During final re-profiling of the pipeline construction area, a low crown of soil mounded over the trench may be necessary to compensate for potential subsidence - refer section 4.8 Reinstatement and Rehabilitation.



Hydrostatic testing a section of pipeline. Ecos

4.7 PIPELINE TESTING AND COMMISSIONING

Hydrotesting is normally undertaken on hydrocarbon pipelines at the completion of backfill operations. Water pipelines also require completion of air and scour valves for the defined test sections. Pipeline commissioning will take place after the pipeline has undergone a series of safety and operational tests and is declared to be operational by the relevant pipeline regulatory authority.

4.7.1 HYDROSTATIC TESTING

Hydrostatic testing (hydrotesting) involves the pressure testing of pipelines with water, or another suitable test medium, to verify pipeline strength and to detect leaks. The gas line process involves the temporary installation of test manifolds onto sections of the newly constructed pipeline and filling the pipeline with the testing medium, usually water, which is then pressurised enabling possible pipeline leak and weakness detection. Following hydrostatic testing, the pipeline will require final cleaning, gauging and drying, particularly in the case of hydrocarbon pipelines. This is achieved using air pressure to push cleaning and drying pigs through the pipeline to remove residual water, welding slag and sediment.

HYDROSTATIC TESTING – KEY ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES

Potential impacts on aquatic fauna

Modification of water quality

Temporary third party deprivation of water resources

Use of chemical additives (e.g. corrosion inhibitors, biocides)

Wastewater management

Soil contamination, erosion and sedimentation resulting from hydrotest water discharge

HYDROSTATIC TESTING – ENVIRONMENTAL OBJECTIVES

1. To minimise water use

2. To minimise impacts on flora and fauna



HYDROSTATIC TESTING – ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT


Planning and Design Hydrotesting operations shall conform with the requirements of relevant legislation and AS 2885.54.

Consultation with landholders and/or relevant regulatory authorities shall be conducted prior to sourcing and disposing of water. Permits for such activities may be required from relevant regulatory authorities.

Prior to the commencement of hydrotesting activities, a hydrostatic testing program / procedure shall be prepared.

4 AS 2885.5: 2002 Pipelines – Gas and Liquid Petroleum – Field Pressure Testing.



Hydrostatic Testing Measures which prevent hydrotest water discharge resulting in soil erosion or sedimentation of land and water shall be adopted - refer section 4.13 Erosion and Sediment Control.

Potential impacts on other users of the water resource shall be minimised by maintaining adequate flow rates and water levels or by coordinating water usage to minimise potential interference.

Measures which minimise potential impacts on aquatic fauna shall be adopted, such as avoiding significant aquatic habitat areas, maintaining adequate flow rates and water levels, screening water uptake hoses with small gauge mesh or the use of alternative water resources.

Procedures for drilling water bores shall be developed based on the principles for Directional Drilling operations (e.g. drill site and waste management), outlined in section 4.5.3 Directional Drilling.

Measures which prevent the spread of declared weed seeds and plant pathogens, such as forest dieback, within the hydrotest water may be required where such problems are known to exist. Planning is also required to ensure that the transfer of pest species of fish or other aquatic fauna from one catchment to another, does not occur.

The use of environmentally harmful chemical additives in the hydrotest water, such as corrosion inhibitors and biocides, shall be avoided where practicable.

Where practicable, test water shall be used for multiple test sections.

Holding dams, if required, shall be located, constructed and restored in accordance with the principles outlined for construction work sites - refer section 4.10 Construction Camps and Worksites.

Hydrotest water discharge or recycling for secondary uses, such as pasture irrigation or livestock watering, shall only be undertaken where water quality is within relevant statutory water quality guidelines.

4.7.2 PIPELINE PURGING

At the commissioning stage of a gas pipeline it is necessary to purge the pipeline of air to ensure safe operation and that the gas meets the required market specifications. To achieve this, a ‘slug’ of inert gas such as nitrogen may be pushed through the pipeline by low pressure natural gas.

The air and nitrogen mix is purged out of the system through valve controlled outlet pipes. This process may result in gas being vented from the pipeline as air is purged; however, gas release is minimised as far as possible for both environmental and economic reasons.

PIPELINE PURGING AND GAS VENTING – KEY ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES

Creation of a safety hazard by venting gas

Potential release of greenhouse gases

Noise associated with gas release

PIPELINE PURGING AND GAS VENTING – ENVIRONMENTAL OBJECTIVES

1. To minimise the creation of safety hazards

2. To minimise atmospheric emissions

3. To minimise noise disturbance



Controlled disposal of hydrostatic testing water. Ecos

PIPELINE PURGING AND GAS VENTING – ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT


Planning Gas vents shall be located at an appropriate distance from residential areas and infrastructure, in accordance with relevant regulatory requirements.

Purging or venting shall be minimised by using methods that prevent or reduce the mixing of air, inert gas and product gas (e.g. use of a pig).

Purging or venting gas from the pipeline shall be conducted under favourable local meteorological conditions that facilitate rapid atmospheric dispersion of the gas.

Adjacent residents shall be advised of the pending venting operation prior to undertaking the activity.



Rehabilitated pipeline corridor W. Mathieson

4.8 REINSTATEMENT AND REHABILITATION

Reinstatement and rehabilitation are the final major stages in pipeline construction. This section details the standard environmental management considerations for pipeline construction area rehabilitation; however, these may need to be adapted to suit site specific conditions, landholder and client requirements, and other legal or project obligations such as specific revegetation requirements.

REINSTATEMENT AND REHABILITATION – KEY ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES

Erosion and sediment control

Reinstatement of habitat components (rocks logs and debris)

Reinstatement of infrastructure (fences, gates, culverts)

Revegetation & rehabilitation of disturbed construction areas

Potential for restoration of disturbed construction sites.

REINSTATEMENT AND REHABILITATION – ENVIRONMENTAL OBJECTIVES

1. To minimise soil erosion potential and maximise vegetative cover

2. To minimise the potential for sedimentation or acidification of land and water

3. To minimise modification to drainage patterns

4. To minimise weed, vermin or pathogen invasion

5. To restore and enhance the environment, including wildlife habitat where practical

6. To minimise negative visual impact and enhance visual amenity

7. To minimise adverse impacts on other land users

REINSTATEMENT AND REHABILITATION – ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT


Planning Pre-construction environmental assessments for benchmarking or analogue sites for comparison, post rehabilitation.

The period of time between backfilling and rehabilitation of the pipeline construction area shall be minimised to prevent degradation and loss of exposed soils.

Site specific rehabilitation plans may be necessary, depending upon site conditions or legal requirements (e.g. problematic soils, significant habitat or species and regulatory permit conditions).

Reinstatement Waste materials and equipment shall be removed from the pipeline construction area once backfilling and tie-ins are completed - refer section 4.11 Waste Management.

Compaction relief shall be undertaken as required by ripping or scarifying soils along the contours, particularly on heavily trafficked areas such as the pipeline construction work side, temporary access roads and turn-arounds, and camp and work sites. Figure eight or zigzag rip lines may be appropriate in flat to low gradients to prevent rilling.

The pipeline construction area shall be re-profiled to original or stable contours, re-



establishing surface drainage lines and other land features. Site specific stabilisation measures may be necessary to prevent slumping or erosion.

A low crown of soil mounded over the trench may be necessary to compensate for potential subsidence of trench soil (except in cultivation areas). Regular breaks in the crown will prevent the impediment or channelling of surface drainage and shall coincide with drainage and erosion control features.

Regular inspections shall be undertaken during the pipeline construction maintenance period and operations phases to monitor for trench subsidence. Subsoil displaced by the pipe, and not utilised as trench crown, may be stockpiled in locations approved by landholders or regulatory authorities for use during operations. Imported topsoil, of an appropriate quality and weed free, will be required to cover subsoil used for easement repairs and shall only be used with landholder approval. Stockpiles shall be managed in accordance with the requirements of section 4.13 Erosion and Sediment Control.

Erosion and sediment control measures (e.g. diversion berms, geotextile matting, silt fences, straw bales, and sediment basins) shall be installed as necessary - refer section 4.13 Erosion and Sediment Control.

Stockpiled topsoil and seed stock shall be respread on graded surfaces in an even layer to assist natural regeneration. Minor surface roughness is encouraged when spreading topsoil in order to trap water and seed.

Third party and stock and wildlife access to above ground infrastructure, such as valve and scraper stations, shall be controlled by installing barriers (e.g. fencing).

Unauthorised easement access shall be discouraged by installing signs, fences, earth mounds or ditches, or by placing rock piles and cleared vegetation as barriers.

Flagging used to identify sensitive environmental features (e.g. natural and cultural heritage), shall be removed and disposed of at the completion of construction in order to avoid drawing attention to sites.

Permanent pipeline warning signs shall be erected along the easement.

Rehabilitation Regeneration is the natural process of vegetation re-establishing itself. It may be assisted by creating conditions which increase the potential for success (e.g. topsoil replacement, weed control, seed traps).

Revegetation refers to actively re-establishing vegetation through seeding or planting techniques in accordance with site specific management plans.

Rehabilitation measures shall be developed, considering the application of vegetation regeneration and/or revegetation techniques as appropriate.

Pipeline construction area rehabilitation shall consider revegetation and regeneration using native species where appropriate, due to its value in creating wildlife corridors, reducing fragmentation, habitat and also farm management benefits (e.g. windbreaks, drought resistant shade trees and weed species suppression).

Respreading stockpiled vegetation, either whole or mulched, over the pipeline construction area and other disturbed areas enhances regeneration potential; respreading vegetation to act as mulch will provide soil nutrients, fauna habitat, improved soil structure, conservation of water, reduced erosion, trap for water and seeds, weed control, easement access control and visual impact mitigation.

Where seeding is adopted to facilitate prompt revegetation and soil stabilisation, the following principles shall be considered:

seed mixtures shall be formulated for the conditions of the area. Consideration shall be given to habitat element requirements of significant local fauna and the vegetation of the areas adjacent to the pipeline construction area

where practicable, native seed shall be collected on site if approval is granted by relevant authorities



sterile grass seed stock may be used in problem areas to provide environmentally acceptable short term surface stability

where applied, seed shall be evenly dispersed over the entire disturbed area

seeding shall take place as soon as practicable after reinstatement and, where possible, shall take advantage of the most appropriate season. Reapplication of seed may be required in some areas

fertilisers and soil supplements may be necessary to aid germination, but shall only be applied with approval from relevant regulatory authorities and/or landholders, as the application could encourage weed species.

Site specific screening plantings may be necessary at critical viewing locations where unacceptable visual impacts are evident (e.g. some road crossings or above ground pipeline facilities such as scraper stations).

Where appropriate, native groundcover and shrubs shall be encouraged to regenerate over the entire pipeline construction area in order to minimise negative habitat barrier effects in significant habitat areas.

Where appropriate, trees may be permitted to regrow on the pipeline construction area within an acceptable distance of the pipeline.

Where appropriate, habitat structural elements, such as timber and rocks, shall be replaced on the pipeline construction area.

Where practicable, rehabilitated areas may need to be fenced in order to prevent access until site stability is established.

Cleared Vegetation Management

The management of cleared vegetation shall be undertaken in a manner approved by the relevant land management agency and in consultation with relevant landholders.

Cleared vegetation management options include (but are not limited to):

distribution over the pipeline construction area during rehabilitation to reduce fire hazards, recycle nutrients and to provide surface protection from erosion or access barriers

salvage in consultation with the relevant land management agency (e.g. timber, pulp wood or firewood)

stockpiling for use at other rehabilitation sites if suitable

retention of cleared vegetation on site as habitat.

Rehabilitation on a Large Diameter Pipeline RoW - MACDOW



4.9 BORROW PITS

Borrow pits, or small quarry sites, may be required during pipeline construction to source:

soft earth or sand for pipeline padding during trench backfilling

road base material for constructing or upgrading roads

rubble material for the construction of above ground pipeline infrastructure, e.g. hard stands and lined fuel/chemical storage bunding

rip-rap for stream bank stabilisation if not otherwise available.

Where practicable, borrow material will be sourced from existing sites, such as commercial or council operated sites. In the event that new source pits are required, they shall be located, operated and restored in accordance with the management measures detailed below and will be subject to cultural heritage clearance measures.

BORROW PITS – KEY ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES

Soil erosion, sediment release to land and water



Dust and noise emissions resulting from borrow material excavation and transport

Potential impacts on visual amenity


Proliferation of borrow sites

Site rehabilitation

BORROW PITS – ENVIRONMENTAL OBJECTIVES




4. To minimise impacts on cultural and historical heritage


6. To achieve satisfactory rehabilitation


BORROW PITS – ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT


Borrow Pit Site Selection

Borrow pit sites shall be selected in consultation with relevant regulatory authorities and landholders, and the necessary regulatory approvals obtained prior to site work commencing.

Proposed borrow pit sites shall be assessed for potential environmental impacts relative to flora, fauna, landform and heritage.

Borrow pits sites shall be located away from problem soil areas, e.g. saline or Acid Sulphate Soils.

Borrow Pits to be located away from recharge zones (hydraulic conditions) to prevent flooding and or inundation

Borrow pits shall avoid known sites of natural, scientific, or heritage significance.

Borrow pits shall be located in a manner which minimises aesthetic impacts (e.g. shielded by vegetation or landforms, or situated away from public areas).

Site layout plans identifying topsoil, vegetation and spoil storage areas, access tracks



and excavation boundaries shall be prepared prior to commencement of borrow pit operations.

Borrow Pit Operation Borrow pit operations shall comply with the requirements of relevant licensing and approvals.

Site access shall be designed, constructed, operated and restored in accordance with the guidelines detailed in section 4.1 Access.

Where present, topsoil and vegetation shall be removed from the excavation site and stockpiled separately in an adjacent area.

Where significant quantities of padding or rubble material are required from a single borrow pit, a progressive shallow strip mining technique may be adopted as appropriate.

Blasting, if required, shall be undertaken in accordance with the requirements of section 4.5.1 Blasting.

On site fuel storage shall comply with the requirements of section 4.10 Construction Camps and Worksites.

Borrow Pit Rehabilitation

Site rehabilitation shall be undertaken as soon as possible following completion of extraction. Subject to approval from the relevant statutory authorities and at the request of landholders, borrow pits may be left in a condition suitable for appropriate alternative uses, such as water storage dams.

Where strip mining techniques are applied or large pits opened, they shall be progressively restored during extraction operations.

Site rehabilitation shall include:

soil compaction relief in trafficked areas as necessary (i.e. ripping along the contours). Ripping should aim to permit the site to drain freely unless it has been otherwise specified for use as a dam

re-profiling of the site to achieve soil stability and congruity with the surrounding landscape. A minimum 2horizontal:1vertical batter on side slopes is considered suitable to assist stabilisation

respreading stockpiled topsoil, where present, over the rehabilitation area

managing cleared vegetation in accordance with measures outlined in section 4.8 Reinstatement and Rehabilitation. Respreading cleared vegetation over the site is the preferred option, particularly covering the pit slopes

implementing appropriate regeneration/revegetation measures in accordance with section 4.8 Reinstatement and Rehabilitation (Regeneration and Revegetation), taking into consideration site specific characteristics which may affect regrowth and stabilisation success. Seeding and the use of geotextile materials may be appropriate

erosion control and site stabilisation measures such as, erosion berms and contour ripping on the borrow pit side slopes to create terracing

rehabilitation of access tracks in accordance with the guidelines in section 4.1 Access.



Temporary storage of fuel and oils at a yard/campsite. Ecos

4.10 CONSTRUCTION CAMPS AND WORKSITES

Pipeline construction crews are an amalgamation of specialist tradespeople, such as welders, machinery operators, safety and paramedical staff, supervisors and inspectors, catering staff, surveyors and field engineers, and many more individuals and groups.

The size of a construction crew varies according to:

the size of the pipeline project (e.g. a short infield flowline versus a major cross country transmission line divided into several ‘construction spreads’)

the nature of the environment traversed (e.g. onshore and offshore sections)

the required construction techniques (e.g. specialised watercourse crossings, directional drilling).

Construction crew sizes in Australia generally range from about 50 to 1,000 personnel, with 250 personnel being typical for a single spread medium length pipeline of around 300km. This workforce may be accommodated in hotels, motels and caravan parks in the vicinity of the pipeline route, or alternatively, temporary construction camps will be established where necessary.

Construction worksites, such as directional drilling sites and pipe storage yards, may also be required. These sites are generally treated in a manner similar to campsites and are therefore also addressed in this section. The procedures for the location, cultural heritage clearance, preparation, operation and rehabilitation of construction camps, worksites and pipe-yards are detailed in the following table.

CONSTRUCTION CAMPS AND WORKSITES – KEY ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES

Soil erosion, sediment release to land and water


Dust and noise emissions

Potential impacts on visual amenity


Site rehabilitation

Waste Management and disposal

CONSTRUCTION CAMPS AND WORKSITES – ENVIRONMENTAL OBJECTIVES




4. To minimise impacts on cultural and historical heritage



7. To minimise the area of disturbance



CONSTRUCTION CAMPS AND WORKSITES – ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT


Site Planning and Design

The necessary planning and other statutory approvals shall be obtained prior to establishing construction camps, laydown areas, pipe-yards or other worksites.

Where practicable, sites shall be located in areas near the pipeline easement and adjacent to access tracks or roads, or at existing construction sites (e.g. local work areas).

New sites shall be located at existing clearings or disturbed areas where practicable, and on well drained land with suitable access in all weather conditions.

Layout of new sites shall be designed to minimise the area of disturbance.

Where practicable, camps and worksites (excluding Horizontal Directional Drilling sites and other water crossing construction sites) shall be located away from major water courses, creeks or other surface water bodies, public utilities and farm infrastructure.

Sites shall avoid disturbance to features of natural, scientific, indigenous or historical heritage significance.

Where practicable, sites shall be located in a manner which minimises visual impact.

Sustainability of operations (inclusion in EMS or other) to be considered dependent upon scale or longevity of the operation or camp site.

Site Construction Site access shall be designed, constructed, operated and restored in accordance with the guidelines detailed in section 4.1 Access.

The extent of a site shall be clearly defined on project plans and at the site.

Where vegetation clearance is necessary, it shall be minimised as far as practicable, with cleared vegetation being stockpiled separately for respreading during reinstatement.

Topsoil shall be graded from work and traffic areas, as necessary, to protect topsoil and enhance rehabilitation potential.

Site levelling spoil from the site shall be removed separately and stockpiled separately in an adjacent area.

Trees and tall shrubs shall remain on site, where practicable, and infrastructure arranged to avoid them.

Erosion and sediment control measures shall be installed as required to prevent site run-off leading to erosion and sedimentation (e.g. retaining/diversion berms, silt fences to contain and filter site run-off) - refer section 4.13 Erosion and Sediment Control.

Site Management Waste management shall be undertaken in accordance with the procedures outlined in section 4.11 Waste Management.

Adequate and properly maintained fire fighting equipment shall be provided at camps and worksites.

Vehicles and equipment shall remain within the designated areas and access roads.

Vehicle parking shall be restricted to designated areas. Parking under trees shall be discouraged to prevent root zone soil compaction causing root damage and impairing water infiltration into the soil.

Pets, firearms and other hunting equipment shall be prohibited from the project.

Fuel/Chemical Storage and Handling

The storage and handling of fuels and chemicals shall comply with all relevant legislation and Australian Standards, particularly AS1940.

Fuels, lubricants and chemicals shall be stored and, where practicable, handled within containment facilities (e.g. bunded areas, leak proof trays) designed to prevent the release of spilt substances to the environment.

Where practicable, fuels and chemicals shall not be stored or handled in the vicinity of natural or built waterways or water storage areas (e.g. streams, canals, dams, lakes).



Appropriate fuel and chemical handling procedures shall be adopted, aiming to avoid spills onto land or into water (e.g. use of spill mats) and workforce training undertaken.

Appropriate spill response equipment, including containment and recovery equipment, shall be available on site.

Detailed spill response procedures shall be formulated and workforce training conducted in land and water spill responses.

Site Reinstatement and rehabilitation

The requirement to restore camps, worksites, laydown areas and pipe-yards shall be determined in consultation with relevant regulatory authorities and landholders. In some instances, landholders and/or regulatory authorities may choose to maintain the site for future purposes; in which case, partial site rehabilitation may be required.

Site reinstatement shall include:

removal of temporary infrastructure and wastes from site. Contaminated soils may require analysis and appropriate disposal options determined with approval from relevant regulatory authorities (e.g. EPA and Local Government)

re-profiling of the site in a manner which ensures soil stability and which is as near as practicable to pre-existing contours

soil compaction relief in trafficked areas as necessary (i.e. ripping along the contours)

respreading stockpiled topsoil over the rehabilitation area

managing cleared vegetation in accordance with measures outlined in section 4.8 Reinstatement and Rehabilitation. Respreading cleared vegetation over the site is the preferred option

implementing appropriate regeneration/revegetation measures in accordance with section 4.8 Reinstatement and Rehabilitation, taking into consideration site specific characteristics which may affect regrowth and stabilisation success. Seeding and the use of geotextile materials may be appropriate

erosion and sediment control measures shall be applied as required (e.g. diversion berms, geotextiles and silt fences)

access tracks shall be restored in accordance with the guidelines in section 4.1 Access.



4.11 WASTE MANAGEMENT

During the construction of a pipeline, domestic and industrial wastes such as, timber skids, sewage, used lube oils and general refuse will be generated. The management of all wastes is regulated by statutory authorities in each State and Territory.

Opportunities for using local recycling facilities shall be investigated. There shall be a strong emphasis placed on housekeeping and cleanliness at all sites in order to promote safety and minimise environmental impact.

WASTE MANAGEMENT – KEY ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES

Protection of soil and water quality

Waste minimisation and appropriate disposal

Maintenance of visual amenity

Impact on post construction land use

WASTE MANAGEMENT – ENVIRONMENTAL OBJECTIVES

1. To minimise health risks associated with waste management

2. To minimise environmental impacts related to waste management

WASTE MANAGEMENT – ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT


Planning Prior to the commencement of construction, waste management plans shall be developed, detailing the required waste procedures.

Waste management plans shall meet all necessary regulatory requirements and shall be based on the following principles listed in order of priority:

1.Avoid receiving potential wastes at point of purchase

2. Reduce wastes at the point of use

3. Reuse materials where possible

4. Recycle wastes where practicable

5. Dispose of wastes appropriately and responsibly.

Solid Inert Wastes Solid inert wastes associated with pipeline construction may include building rubble, concrete, bricks, timber, plastic, glass, metals, bitumen and tyres. Appropriate solid waste management shall be applied during construction and may include:

Consider Life Cycle Assessment of Pipeline and facility items at procurement

Purchasing Policy and encouraging suppliers to reduce and/or collect packaging.

Stockpiling reusable and recyclable wastes, such as timber skids, pallets, drums, scrap metals, pipe transport spacers, tyres, for salvage.

Supplying designated collection bins at camps and work sites for aluminium cans, glass and paper recycling.

Collecting and transporting general refuse to local Municipal Council approved disposal sites.

Development of on-site disposal areas conforming to regulatory authority requirements.

Liquid Inert Wastes Hydrotest and pigging water discharge used for recycling for secondary uses, such as pasture irrigation or livestock watering, shall only be undertaken where water designated for release into the environment is of a quality is within relevant statutory water quality guidelines - refer section 4.7.1 Hydrostatic Testing for more detail.

Re-use Hydrotest water along test sections of pipeline where possible

Drilling muds shall consist of approved water based products or synthetic lubricants, and



shall be contained within the fluid circulation system (i.e. mud tanks, fluid pump system, drill point bell holes and drilling orifice) during drilling. Drilling muds shall be recycled for use where practicable, or disposed of in accordance with regulatory requirements.

Hazardous Wastes Hazardous wastes are those which pose an immediate potential risk to human health and/or the environment. Such wastes, which are relevant to pipeline construction, may include: radiography or cleaning chemicals, waste oils, medical wastes or sewage. Management measures include:

Purchasing supplies in bulk containers, where practicable, to minimise packaging.

Managing hazardous wastes in accordance with all relevant regulatory requirements. Many hazardous wastes may also be declared as prescribed wastes under State or Territory legislation for which specific management requirements may be imposed (e.g. waste inventories, tracking systems and permitting).

Sewage and sullage disposal via approved septic systems, mobile chemical treatment systems or, alternatively, disposed at municipal sewage treatment plants. Recycled wastewater may be utilised for planting irrigation at permanent pipeline facilities, as long as water release does not lead to soil contamination (unless permitted).

Radiography of pipeline welds shall be performed in a manner which ensures that chemicals and other associated wastes are contained and appropriately disposed of.

All waste chemicals and other toxic materials shall be stored and collected for safe transport off-site for reuse, recycling, treatment or disposal at locations approved by relevant regulatory authorities.

Hydrocarbon wastes, including lube oils and oily sludge’s, shall be collected for safe transport off-site for reuse, recycling, treatment or disposal at approved locations.

Hazardous waste storage areas must be suitably designed to adequately contain any spills & leaks (e.g. bunded in accordance with statutory requirements).

Contaminated soils (e.g. loading bay drain/pig trap contents, oil/fuel spills), are required to be managed according to the location, their concentration of contaminants, their tendency to leach and the extent of area affected. Appropriate disposal options shall be determined in consultation with the relevant environment protection authorities.

Putrescible Wastes Putrescible wastes are those wastes able to be decomposed by bacterial action and may include discarded food, domestic garbage, commercial wastes and garden clippings. Appropriate putrescible waste management shall be applied during construction and may include:

Collection and transportation to a landfill approved by the relevant regulatory authority (this may include local government approval).

On-site disposal at camp or work sites shall only be undertaken in remote areas where storage and transportation to a registered landfill depot may lead to the creation of unacceptable health risks.

Housekeeping The pipeline construction area and associated camp, work and storage sites shall be maintained to an orderly and hygienic standard.

Appropriate measures shall be taken to ensure litter accumulation is avoided, such as the provision of litter bins on-site and regular site maintenance duties.



Temporary vehicle crossing across watercourse. Ecos

4.12 WATERCOURSE CROSSINGS

A range of pipeline construction methods is available to facilitate river, stream and other watercourse crossings. These include the above ground or aerial options, where the pipeline is suspended across the waterway by existing or purpose built bridges, or the below ground option achieved through standard trenching, watercourse flow diversion or horizontal directional drilling (HDD).

The preferred crossing technique is determined following the consideration of a number of site specific factors, including safety risk, hydrology, watercourse substrate and geology, environmental sensitivities and engineering feasibility.

Aerial Crossings are commonly applied on water pipelines and have been successfully applied on hydrocarbon pipelines. This involves strapping the pipeline to existing or purpose built bridge infrastructure. A key engineering and environmental consideration is the risk associated with the pipeline being exposed to potential floodwaters. Naturally, where the risk is unacceptable other crossing options, such as trenching, are undertaken.

Standard Trenching involves in-stream excavation of a trench in the standard manner. Excavators or backhoes are generally used for this technique enabling trench spoil to be stockpiled away from the stream bed. The prefabricated pipe is placed across the waterway, lowered in and the trench backfilled immediately. This method is often applied in dry or shallow low flow watercourses, but may also be applied in sensitive watercourses where rapid construction is considered the best means of minimising environmental impacts.

Watercourse Flow Diversion techniques involve the construction of temporary dams upstream and downstream of the crossing and the diversion of water around the site, thus creating a dry construction area between the dams. Water flow is maintained by pumping the water around the dammed crossing site (i.e. Dam and Pump) or by diverting the water flow through a flume pipe installed between the dams (i.e. Fluming). Both methods have limitations depending upon site specific factors such as, discharge velocity and rate, watercourse profile and substrate permeability. This method is generally applied at crossings where water flow is required to be maintained for ecological, social or engineering reasons.

Horizontal Directional Drilling involves drilling a hole at a shallow angle under the watercourse through which the pipeline is threaded. Directional drilling is a costly technique, which may be used for major river crossings; however it can be limited by geotechnical or physical constraints. Whilst directional drilling can reduce above ground impacts, it introduces additional environmental considerations such as drill site sediment control and waste management.

WATER COURSE CROSSINGS – KEY ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES


Bank degradation

Impacts on riparian and aquatic flora and fauna


Temporary obstruction of other land users

WATERCOURSE CROSSINGS – ENVIRONMENTAL OBJECTIVES

1. To minimise impacts on riparian, aquatic and water dependent flora and fauna

2. To minimise erosion and sedimentation impacts

3. To maintain water quality and water flow requirements

4. To minimise impacts on heritage sites



5. To maximise rehabilitation success of achieving long term site stability

WATERCOURSE CROSSINGS – ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT


Planning and Design Watercourse crossings shall be minimised, where practicable, during pipeline route selection.

Site specific watercourse crossing techniques shall be determined by the pipeline proponent in consultation with relevant regulatory authorities following consideration of environmental sensitivities (natural and social).

Site specific management plans or engineering drawings shall be developed for significant waterway crossings detailing construction and environmental management requirements. Utilise relevant erosion and sediment control guidelines and ensure appropriate monitoring to determine adequacy of controls

Watercourse crossings shall be designed in a manner which minimises scour potential (e.g. the crossing location shall be at low velocity, straight sections with pipeline orientated as near to perpendicular to water flow as practicable).

Where practicable, watercourse crossings shall be scheduled during dry or low flow periods and shall avoid periods of fauna sensitivity. Consideration of tidally influenced waters shall also be required.

Crossings shall be completed promptly in order to minimise impacts.

Schedulers shall remain vigilant regarding flood warnings, receiving daily weather reports and subscribing to flood warning services where relevant.

Vehicle Access In addition to the guidelines detailed in section 4.1 Access, the following measures shall be applied:

All equipment required for the crossing shall be on-site and in good working order prior to work commencing on the crossing.

All hydraulic, fuel and lubricating systems of machinery used in the watercourse crossing shall be in good repair in order to avoid water pollution.

Construction machinery shall be certified weed free prior to allowing access to the watercourse - refer section 4.17 Weed Control.

Access tracks/roads shall, where practicable, avoid crossing waterways. Where necessary, water course crossings shall be:

via existing crossings

through the stream bed within the pipeline construction area corridor at dry waterway crossings (e.g. ephemeral streams). However, access shall be limited, where practicable, to vehicles and equipment essential to construction at the site, or

via culvert causeways, bridges or other such crossing structures.

Crossings shall be designed and constructed in a manner which minimises sediment release into waterways, does not prevent water flows and is capable of accommodating locally significant rainfall events.

Clearing at Watercourses

In addition to the guidelines detailed in section 4.2 Clearing, the following measures shall be applied:

Where practicable, clearing slopes leading to watercourses shall be delayed until construction of the crossing is imminent, thus minimising erosion and sedimentation risk. Alternatively, other soil protection methods shall be applied - refer section 4.13 Erosion and Sediment Control.

Cleared vegetation shall be stockpiled away from watercourses and shall not be stored or, where practicable, felled so as to land in watercourses.

At ecologically sensitive watercourse crossings mechanical slashers shall be considered for use in clearing activities.



Grading at Watercourses

In addition to the guidelines detailed in section 4.3 Grading, the following measures shall be applied:

Erosion and sedimentation resulting from grading adjacent to watercourses shall be avoided by:

where practicable, not grading topsoil from the pipeline construction area on watercourse approaches, thus allowing the undisturbed organic mat to remain in situ

delay grading of banks and slopes leading to watercourses until construction of the crossing is imminent, thus minimising erosion and sedimentation risk

grading soil away from the watercourse

stockpiling soil at an appropriate distance from the watercourse or behind adequate stockpile berms.

Where the stream bed consists of rocks, pebbles or coarse gravel overlaying finer material, this material shall be removed and stockpiled separately for replacement during reinstatement.

Trenching at Watercourses

In addition to the guidelines detailed in section 4.5 Trenching, the following measures shall be applied:

Diversion dams shall be constructed of appropriate materials which will minimise watercourse sedimentation, such as steel plates, sand bags or inflatable dams (e.g. AquadamTM). Unprotected earthen dams shall be avoided.

Erosion and sedimentation resulting from trenching adjacent to watercourses shall be avoided by:

stockpiling excavated bank material at an appropriate distance from the watercourse or behind adequate stockpile berms

stockpiling Acid Sulphate Soils separately, and at an appropriate distance from the watercourse or behind adequate stockpile berms in order to prevent acid leachate run-off

installing sediment and erosion control measures (e.g. silt fences, sediment basins and erosion berms) on watercourse approaches and banks

ceasing trenching on approaches to wet watercourses leaving hard trench plugs in place for the maximum period possible pending pipelaying.

Pipelaying in Watercourses

The pipe section designated for the crossing shall be fabricated prior to trenching or directional drill completion to enable rapid installation.

Trench plugs shall be excavated and replaced with trench blocks or sack breakers above the slope and, as required, down the slope to prevent turbid water from directly entering waterways - refer sections 4.5 Trenching and 4.6 Pipelaying and Backfilling.

Appropriate measures, such as, concrete coated pipe or bolt-on weights, shall be employed to weight the pipeline down in the trench as necessary.

Reinstatement of Watercourses

In addition to the guidelines detailed in section 4.8 Reinstatement and Rehabilitation, the following measures shall be applied:

Appropriate stabilisation measures will be required on both the banks and bed of watercourses. Such measures shall be determined on a site specific basis following consideration of local influencing factors such as stream hydrology, soil type, rainfall, vegetation regeneration potential, land use, etc.

Stabilisation measures shall be applied based on site specific requirements. These include:

restoring watercourse banks to their original profiles

respreading topsoil over the area from which it was removed and seeding areas of disturbance



replacing or introducing a surface layer of cobbles, coarse gravel or rock over disturbed areas as rip-rap. Particular care shall be taken to ensure that the material is replaced on the river bed to a depth equivalent to the original conditions and so that it is not likely to act as a barrier to the passage of aquatic fauna

stockpiled timber from pipeline construction clearing activities may also be utilised by spreading the timber randomly over the pipeline construction area leading down to the watercourse crossing

sandbag, gabion or other means of scour protection may be applied and shall be placed to conform with existing natural contours, as appropriate, with topsoil respread over the sandbags or gabions

preventing access to sites, e.g. fencing or barriers, to assist site recovery.

Additional erosion and sediment control measures shall be applied, based on site specific requirements. These include:

the application of terracing and surface water diversion berms along the top and at intermediate points down the bank slope. Run-off water discharge shall be used to stable (e.g. vegetated) areas or directed via sediment settling basins and not allowed direct into the watercourse

the installation of silt and sediment fences on slopes to filter surface run-off water

the reseeding or replanting of disturbed banks

the application of stabilising materials such as, hydromulch, jute matting or other suitable geotextile materials

the application of appropriate Acid Sulphate Soil management measures, such as the spreading of lime or other neutralising agents.

avoiding vehicle tracks up slopes on rehabilitation areas.



Erosion controls (berms and sediment fences) at a watercourse crossing. W. Mathieson

4.13 DRAINAGE, EROSION AND SEDIMENT CONTROL

Much of the Australian landscape is fragile, with soils susceptible to erosion caused by wind or the movement of water. Construction activities involving earthworks increase erosion risks by exposing soils through the removal of protective features such as vegetation cover.

Drainage, erosion and sediment control considerations have been presented throughout this document where these issues pertain to a particular construction issue or activity. This section provides additional guidelines for the application of erosion and sediment control measures.

DRAINAGE, EROSION AND SEDIMENT CONTROL – KEY ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES

Loss of topsoil and sub-soils

Siltation and sedimentation of land and water

Reduced potential for rehabilitation success

Long term stability of disturbed areas

The requirement for costly rectification measures

DRAINAGE, EROSION AND SEDIMENT CONTROL – ENVIRONMENTAL OBJECTIVES

1. To minimise potential for soil loss and degradation, both on and off construction areas

2. To prevent adverse impacts on water quality

DRAINAGE EROSION AND SEDIMENT CONTROL – ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT


Planning Where practicable, pipeline route selection shall minimise the traversing of soils and waterways highly prone to erosion.

Ground disturbance and vegetation clearing shall be minimised as far as practicable to maintain soil stability.

The period for which the soil is left exposed to erosion shall be minimised.

Appropriate measures shall be developed to address wet weather considerations including access and the minimisation of soil erosion and sedimentation.

Consideration should be given to scheduling works outside known wet periods.

Appropriate measures shall be applied during all phases of construction to control drainage, erosion and sediment on the pipeline construction area (including above ground infrastructure sites), work and camp sites as required.

Installation of drainage, erosion and sediment control measures shall consider site conditions including:

natural and constructed drainage patterns

soil type and erodability potential

slope

rainfall frequency and intensity

catchment size and, therefore, required capacity and coordination of control structures



vegetation cover

proximity to sensitive environments, particularly sedimentation leading to impact on water quality

land use impacts (e.g. cultivation and grazing).

Reference to Erosion Sediment Control Guidelines (Sect. 5) should also be utilised in site assessments and the preparation of site plans.

Rehabilitation of the pipeline construction area shall be undertaken in a manner which best suits local conditions.

Erosion Control Design and Construction

The first consideration when managing potential erosion is to adequately manage drainage, then to focus on erosion and sedimentation controls.

Erosion control berms shall be designed and constructed in a manner which ensures discharge run-off water does not lead to erosion or sedimentation by:

extending erosion berms beyond the pipeline construction area to discharge run-off water to stable, preferably vegetated lands. Where vegetation is absent, energy dissipation measures, such as rock rip-rap, shall be installed as necessary

erosion control berm gradients shall closely follow land contours to ensure low velocity discharge away from the exposed soils

run-off water from erosion control berms shall be directed to the downslope side of the pipeline to prevent discharge water from crossing the pipeline construction area again

where necessary, the installation of erosion control berms shall coincide with the location of Trench Blocks to enable more effective water diversion.

Erosion control berms and drains shall be constructed so as to permit traffic to move over them safely without destroying them.

During Rehabilitation, cleared vegetation may be spread over the pipeline construction area or in filter strips, as an alternative or addition to erosion control berms.

Access track drains shall discharge run-off water in a manner which does not lead to sedimentation or erosion, i.e. low gradient run-off, broad dish shaped outlets to appropriately stable areas (e.g. vegetated or rip-rap stabilised).

Erosion control structures shall be routinely inspected and maintained to ensure they remain effective (i.e. removal of silt build up, reinforcing or re-establishing failed structures).

Where the pipeline is likely to affect or be affected by gully erosion, stabilisation works including diversion structures may be required. These may involve geotextiles, rock stabilisation, concrete lining, localised drainage modification or other site specific measures as appropriate.

Sediment Control Design and Construction

The first consideration to manage potential sedimentation is to adequately manage drainage then to focus on erosion and sedimentation controls.

Sediment control structures may include:

sediment or silt barriers generally constructed from geotextile silt fence or filter fabric secured in place with star pickets or sand bags, concrete saddle weights or culverts

sediment basins or ponds which are constructed downslope and are designed to catch and retain run-off water allowing sediment to settle out.

Sediment control structures shall be regularly inspected and maintained to ensure they remain effective (i.e. removal of silt build up, replacement/re-installation of failed components such as straw bales and fencing), particularly after high intensity rainfall or run-off events.

Where the pipeline is likely to affect or be affected by gully erosion, stabilisation works including diversion structures may be required. These may involve geotextiles, rock rip-rap, concrete lining, localised drainage and other site specific measures as appropriate.



Erosion controls at a trench de-watering site. Ecos

Discharge Water Erosion and Sediment Control

Wastewater discharge from construction activities (e.g. hydrotesting, trench de-watering or well-point de-watering) shall be managed in accordance with the following principles:

Where necessary, discharge water quality shall be monitored against relevant water quality standards and appropriate disposal options determined in consultation with relevant regulatory authorities.

Soil erosion and sedimentation of land and water shall be prevented by:

applying inlet filters or screens on water uptake hoses

supporting the inlet hose above the sediment layer in the water

avoiding discharge directly to waterways where discharge water sediment loads significantly exceed that of the receiving waters and is likely to result in detrimental impacts

discharging water in a manner which does not result in flooding of land both on and off the pipeline construction area or run-off beyond the intended receiving area or to waterways

discharging diverted watercourse water (i.e. flume and dam & pump crossings) directly back into the watercourse over rip-rap protection downstream of the crossing

discharging trench and hydrotest water through sediment filters (e.g. hose outlet filters, geotextiles or straw bales) to remove solids

discharging water to holding or settling ponds to avoid erosion and permit sediment to settle out of the water column

discharging trench and hydrotest water to stable land through flow diffusers (e.g. spray bars) and energy dissipaters (e.g. rock rip-rap or geotextile filters/fabrics).



Indigenous heritage artefact site temporarily flagged off on a pipeline construction corridor. Ecos

4.14 HERITAGE – NATURAL AND BUILT ENVIRONMENTS

Significant heritage features, of natural or anthropological origin, are protected by a range of Commonwealth, State and Heritage laws. For the purpose of this Code natural and built heritage includes:

natural features or places which are considered to possess significant value such as fossils, unique landforms, significant flora and fauna;

features or places possessing significant European historical values such as buildings, infrastructure and commemorative locations; and

features or places possessing significant cultural and pre-European history values such as indigenous occupation and ceremonial sites, and artefacts such as tools, hunting implements and scar trees.

During the impact assessment stage, ecological and cultural and historical heritage surveys are likely to be necessary along the proposed pipeline corridor or route to identify areas of potential sensitivity (refer section 3.3 Environmental Assessment). Where significant cultural heritage features are identified, a range of management options, which aim to minimise impacts, may be implemented during the pipeline planning and construction phases. These may include pipeline route re-alignment around a feature, excavation and salvage of heritage artefacts, or site specific measures which permit the pipeline to be placed in close proximity to heritage sites whilst avoiding any disturbance. In achieving the latter, heritage sites may require fencing and flagging of the features to be avoided. It should also be noted that Cross cultural training for construction personnel is a useful tool to increase knowledge, awareness and respect for the Indigenous and European artefacts and sites.

As a pipeline construction industry standard, yellow flagging will be used to identify sensitive ‘no go’ areas and features of heritage significance, both natural and built environments. Features marked in this manner shall not be disturbed unless authorised by relevant regulatory authorities and, in the case of indigenous community heritage sites, authorised representatives of the relevant community. Flagging shall be removed at the completion of construction to avoid drawing attention to sites.

During construction there is potential for construction activities, such as earthmoving to uncover previously unrecorded heritage sites. In the event that this occurs, procedures agreed to by all relevant stakeholders, shall be followed. An example of an indicative procedure for pipeline construction is provided below. In the case of indigenous heritage these agreed procedures may be documented in project specific Environmental Management Plans or Cultural Heritage Plans which may include relevant cultural representatives and include a record or notice of heritage finds and actions required.

RECOMMENDED PROCEDURE FOR HERITAGE DISCOVERY DURING CONSTRUCTION

1. Activities which may lead to damage of a newly discovered heritage item/feature (natural or built), such as, earthmoving and traffic at the site, shall be temporarily discontinued. Work may continue at an appropriate, pre-determined distance from the discovery.

2. The construction crew shall notify project management of the potential find and appropriate archaeological, anthropological and/or environmental specialists shall be brought to the site to identify and assess its significance. This may require a works notice to commence and a sign off form/clearance certificate to allow works to recommence. If it is believed that human skeletal remains or burial sites have been discovered, the project management shall also notify local Police.

3. In the event that the discovery is determined to be of heritage significance (natural or built), project management for the pipeline proponent shall, as soon as reasonably practicable, notify all relevant regulatory authorities (e.g. heritage and wildlife agencies) and relevant community representatives (as determined prior to construction), of the discovery.

4. Following verification and documentation of the site, an appropriate management option will be pursued by the pipeline proponent in consultation with relevant community representatives, environmental and/or heritage specialists and relevant regulatory authorities (e.g. heritage and wildlife agencies).



4.15 NOISE CONTROL

Construction activities will generally cause temporary increases in local noise levels, however the progression of the construction crew along a linear construction site results in noise impacts being short lived at any one location. This section outlines management measures to avoid or attenuate construction noise were there is a potential for it to result in impacts on sensitive receptors.

NOISE CONTROL – KEY ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES

Temporary potential impacts on local residents

Temporary potential impacts on stock and wildlife

NOISE CONTROL – ENVIRONMENTAL OBJECTIVES

1. To minimise construction noise impacts on adjacent residents

2. To minimise construction noise impacts on wildlife and livestock

NOISE CONTROL – ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT


Planning Where practicable, excessively noisy construction activities shall be scheduled for periods which are less likely to result in a noise nuisance

Local residents shall receive adequate notice of potential noise incursions prior to the commencement of construction activities.

Construction Operations

Construction activities shall comply with all relevant regulatory requirements and guidelines pertaining to noise control.

Construction equipment shall be equipped with appropriate noise abatement devices (e.g. mufflers), and equipment and noise abatement devices shall be maintained in good working order.

Noise generating equipment (e.g. generators) shall be located at appropriate distances from residences and/or within noise enclosures if necessary.

Noise attenuation screens shall be provided where appropriate.

Where construction is adjacent to residences, noisy construction activities shall be undertaken within standard construction hours, except where unavoidable for practical reasons or agreement is obtained from affected residents. Affected residents shall be advised when unavoidable out-of-hours work, resulting in noise nuisance, will occur5.

5 State or Local government requirements, such as the Qld EPA, may also apply



4.16 DUST & OTHER AIR EMMISIONS CONTROL

Due to the nature of pipeline construction activities involving earthworks, dust emissions, plant and equipment exhaust emissions and hazardous materials vapour emissions may result. Dusty conditions result from the exposure of soils, therefore many control measures relevant to erosion and sediment control are also relevant to dust control (refer to section 4.13 Drainage, Erosion and Sediment Control), This section details air emission and dust prevention and suppression measures which aim to minimise air emission levels to within acceptable limits.

AIR EMMISSIONS CONTROL – KEY ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES


Depletion of water resources

Impacts on sensitive flora and fauna

Inconvenience to sensitive receptors such as residents and construction workforce

Generation of greenhouse gases and other potentially reportable emissions

AIR EMMISSIONS CONTROL – ENVIRONMENTAL OBJECTIVES

1. To minimise impacts on local residents and construction workforce

2. To minimise impacts on land, water and air quality

3. To minimise impacts on flora and fauna

4. To reduce water use as much as possible

5. To improve level of emissions and reduce amounts of reportable emissions

AIR EMMISSIONS CONTROL – ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT


Planning Plan to prevent air emissions in the first instance through Aspect and Impact identification and implementation of appropriate control measures.

Plan to prevent dust generation in the first instance, rather than plan for dust suppression measures

Investigate ground engineering products (eg. ‘Dust Mag’).

Identify appropriate water supplies for dust suppression purposes.

Construction Operations

Known sources of air emissions leading to impact or inconvenience shall be isolated and treated by an appropriate measure (e.g. – Liquid and solid waste producing air emissions located away from sensitive receptors or prevailing wind conditions)

Vehicle speeds on cleared tracks, work and camp sites, and the pipeline construction area shall be restricted to minimise dust. Multiple plant or equipment close to sensitive receptors may need to be monitored for exhaust emissions.

Plant and equipment to be regularly maintained and monitored (mobile and fixed)

Road surfaces shall be constructed of appropriate materials in order to minimise dust emissions, particularly if frequently trafficked and adjacent to residences.

Minimise ground disturbance through retaining existing groundcover vegetation. This may be slashed and maintained on vehicle access points or on the travelling side of the pipeline corridor.

Water shall be applied to exposed soils as required to prevent dust generation. Water supplies shall be of an appropriate water quality and should not lead to soil contamination (e.g. saline groundwater or contaminated waste water). In heavily trafficked areas, or where water resources are scarce, dust stabilisers may be used. In problem areas it may be appropriate to remove additional soil layers down to the harder subsoils.



Dust generated from soil stockpiles shall be minimised by ensuring exposure time is minimised, applying water, covering stockpiles with protective materials (e.g. hessian, tarpaulins), applying polymers or applying sterile grass as a longer term stabiliser on stockpiles or exposed slope batters.

If all available methods of dust stabilisation fail to suppress dust and it continues to result in unacceptable impacts, construction activities may need to be temporarily halted until dust generating conditions subside or are rectified.

Special care (and avoidance if at all possible) will be required if bulldust is encountered.



4.17 WEED CONTROL

Weeds can be a significant problem in Australia in terms of agriculture and the conservation of native flora and fauna. Each State and Territory has specific legislation which bestows responsibility for the prevention and control of the spread of weeds upon individuals and organisations whose activities may result in such spread. Numerous problem weed species are known to exist in Australia, all of which are classified according to their potential threat to agriculture and/or the environment. This classification may also dictate the required management actions for a particular problem weed species.

Construction activities may provide conditions for weeds to invade, as the opportunistic weed species thrive in disturbed soils. This is compounded by the longevity of seed viability of many weed species, which can remain dormant in soil until the soil is disturbed. The construction of a linear pipeline development presents the potential risk of spreading weeds significant distances along the easement as construction progresses. This section presents guidelines for the prevention and control of the spread of noxious weeds during the construction phase.

WEED CONTROL – KEY ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES

Spread of weed species

Potential for unsustainable rehabilitation

Competition from weed species and displacement of native flora

Reduced primary industry productivity and produce quality

WEED CONTROL – ENVIRONMENTAL OBJECTIVES

1. To prevent the spread of weed species

2. To avoid impacts on flora and fauna

3. To avoid impacts on primary industry

WEED CONTROL – ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT


Planning An inventory of noxious or declared weed species occurring along the easement shall be compiled and appropriate weed control procedures shall be developed, based on regulatory pest plant control guidelines, regional weed control programs and an assessment of weed risk.

Weed Management Appropriate weed control measures applied prior to and during construction include:

consideration of engagement of a licensed and suitably qualified or experienced weed control sub contractor

weed eradication measures, such as spraying with non-residual herbicide, mechanical removal such as wash down or blow down bays, in areas of significant noxious weed infestation

wash down / blow down of all vehicles, equipment and portable infrastructure to remove all soil and organic matter prior to arriving at the construction site. Weed wash down wastewater or sediment may require treatment by physical or chemical means to ensure weeds do not occur at discharge locations

restricting access of vehicles and personnel to areas of known noxious weed infestation. Vehicles entering and leaving such areas may need to be rewashed

ensuring imported construction materials, such as topsoil and organic revegetation matting is guaranteed to be weed free by the supplier.

Weed control activities involving the use of chemicals shall be undertaken in consultation with the relevant landholders and regulatory authorities giving due consideration to sensitive land uses (e.g. chemical free and biodynamic farming, reservoir water sheds and flora and fauna sensitivities).



4.18 PEST AND DISEASE CONTROL

Several plant and animal diseases are emerging as significant issues in some areas of Australia in terms of agriculture and the conservation of native flora and fauna (e.g. footrot, Bovine or Ovine Johne’s Disease, Q-Fever, Phylloxera, dieback/Phytophthra, Mundulla Yellows, Red Imported Fire Ant, Equine Influenza6). Nationally, each State and Territory has specific legislation which bestows responsibility for the prevention and control of the spread of pests and diseases upon individuals and organisations whose activities may result in such spread.

Construction activities may provide conditions for the spread of diseases between properties or areas via the disturbance of soil or the transportation of contaminated plant or equipment from other parts of Australia or the world. Unless adequately managed, construction activities may facilitate the spread of a disease through the movement of vehicles, equipment and personnel. The construction of a lineal pipeline development presents the potential risk of spreading diseases along the easement as construction progresses. This section presents guidelines for the prevention and control of the spread of pests and diseases during the construction phase.

PEST AND DISEASE CONTROL – KEY ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES

Reduction in agricultural productivity

Adverse effects on the health of livestock or other fauna

Damage to or loss of native vegetation

Loss of biodiversity

Poor regeneration

Impaired visual amenity

PEST AND DISEASE CONTROL – ENVIRONMENTAL OBJECTIVES

1. To minimise the spread of pests, diseases and pathogens.

2. To prevent the introduction of pests, diseases and pathogens into new areas.

3. To avoid impacts on primary industry, specific landholders and the environment.

PEST AND DISEASE CONTROL – ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT

Management Measures

Pest and/or disease infected areas on the pipeline corridor requiring special hygiene management should be identified. Alternatively, in potentially affected areas the entire pipeline corridor should be considered at risk and managed accordingly.

Areas of high conservation value requiring special protection should be identified.

An appropriately detailed pest and disease control program should be incorporated into the pipeline construction environmental management plan.

Consider, as required, the engagement of a suitably qualified or experienced pest and disease professional (integrated pest management) sub contractor.

The transportation of soil along the pipeline corridor should be avoided where practicable.

Machinery and vehicles should be washed down with sterilized high-pressure water, appropriate cleaning solution or other method appropriate for the particular pest or disease. Regular inspection of measures and infected/infested sites also required.

Wash down points should be located close to infected/infested areas along the pipeline corridor to reduce the risk of spreading infected/infected material.



In areas of confirmed infection/infestation, stringent wash down must be completed before leaving the area, removing all soil and vegetative material from cabins, trays, and under carriages. This may include removal by physical, mechanical or chemical means.

Where demountable buildings are used in infected/infested areas along the pipeline corridor proper, thorough removal of soil and vegetative matter should be carried out prior to removal of buildings from infected/infested area.

Construction personnel should be trained adequately in pest and disease management and hygiene procedures, appropriate to pests and diseases known to occur on site.

Facilities should be provided for employees to wash down boots prior to moving out of infected/infested areas.

To assist weed control, vehicles and machinery that are washed down should be included in a Vehicle Wash down Register.



4.19 BUSHFIRE PREVENTION

Pipeline construction activities have the potential to temporarily increase the risk of bushfires. Bushfire risk in relation to pipeline construction is considered low; however, it involves two primary issues. Firstly, the potential for construction activities to generate a bushfire, and secondly, the potential for bushfires to impact on the Project.

Potential bushfire ignition sources associated with pipeline construction are pipe cutting, welding and grinding activities and the operation of equipment (e.g. petrol driven pumps) or vehicles in high fire hazard areas. This section provides guidelines for conducting pipeline construction activities in a manner which minimises fire risks.

BUSHFIRE PREVENTION – KEY ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES


Damage to, or loss of, flora and fauna

Damage to, or loss of, wildlife habitat

Impacts on primary industry production

Damage to, or loss of, third party infrastructure

BUSHFIRE PREVENTION – ENVIRONMENTAL OBJECTIVES

1. To minimise bushfire risk during pipeline construction

2. To protect the public and construction personnel

3. To protect property and minimise damage or loss

4. To prevent the spread of bushfire in the event of ignition

BUSHFIRE PREVENTION – ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT


Planning Prior to the commencement of construction a fire management plan, based on a risk assessment, may be required. The strategy shall detail bushfire prevention, preparedness, emergency contacts, equipment, response and training, and shall be linked to the Project’s safety and emergency response procedures.

Bushfire Prevention and Preparedness

Regular and timely consultation shall be undertaken with all relevant regulatory authorities and compliance with all relevant fire restrictions, notification requirements, permitting procedures and requirements.

Fire prevention measures may include:

aligning the pipeline to avoid high fire danger areas

scheduling construction to avoid high fire danger periods

discontinuing construction in fire prone areas during extreme high fire danger periods

clearing all flammable material from around potential fire ignition sources

utilising tarpaulins or fire resistant mats at welding or grinding stations in areas where minimal clearing of vegetation has been required

undertaking fuel reduction on or adjacent to the pipeline construction area in consultation with relevant fire and wildlife management authorities and landholders

ensuring flammable materials are cleared from the immediate vicinity of field equipment which may pose a potential fire hazard e.g. petrol driven pumps, generators.

maintenance and operation of all machinery so as to comply with relevant fire safety standards thus minimising fire risk



machinery and vehicles not in use shall be parked in areas free of flammable material and vegetation (e.g. not parked over shrubs, tall grass or cleared vegetation residue).

Fire response preparation measures shall include:

storage of appropriate fire fighting equipment at all work and camp sites in accordance with the requirements of the relevant State Fire Protection Regulations. Equipment must be of the required standard and be inspected and well maintained throughout the construction phase

equipping construction machinery and vehicles with fire fighting equipment (e.g. water knapsacks, rakehoes and fire extinguishers) at the appropriate times in accordance with the relevant Fire Protection Regulations

having construction equipment, such as earthmoving machinery and water trucks, on standby at the construction site during work operations in high fire risk areas for fire control if required.

Construction workforce bushfire education and training shall be undertaken, as appropriate, detailing fire prevention and safety, personnel responsibilities and basic fire suppression.

C O D E O F E N V I R O N M E N T A L P R A C T I C E – O N S H O R E P I P E L I N E S O P E R A T I O N S


An operational pipeline corridor. Ecos

5 ENVIRONMENTAL GUIDELINES - OPERATIONS

The operation of onshore pipelines involves a range of activities generally undertaken by operations staff and specialist service companies. Common activities include surveillance of the pipeline easement; maintenance of the pipeline, pipeline easement and associated facilities (such as valves, compressor stations, pressure reduction stations and cathodic protection equipment); pigging of the pipeline for cleaning or inspection; and the use and handling of odorants.

Pipelines are widely accepted as a safe and environmentally responsible means for transporting gas and liquids. If pipeline operations are appropriately managed, few environmental issues are likely and those that do eventuate are typically localised and small-scale. Potential impacts that may require preventative action or mitigation measures include:

soil erosion, sedimentation and subsidence

disturbance to flora and fauna species and their habitat

the introduction or spread of weeds and disease

disruption to access or landuse

altered surface water flow or drainage

contamination of soil or water

the production, handling and disposal of wastes

ignition and spread of fire

degradation of air quality (dust, odour)

reduction to amenity (visual and noise).

This section provides guidance for the application of best practice operating procedures and environmental management that aims to prevent or mitigate such impacts.

Environmental Objectives

In particular, this section aims to assist pipeline operators achieve the following key environmental objectives:

1. To operate and maintain the pipeline in a safe manner.

2. To operate and maintain the pipeline easement in a manner that minimises potential impacts on the environment, landuse and third parties.

3. To conduct maintenance and repair activities in a manner consistent with the environmental guidelines for pipeline construction contained in this Code.

Environmental Management

Environmental management is an integral part of pipeline operation. Sound management of the pipeline will generally result in a low level of impact: protecting the asset protects the environment. In particular, operations aim to manage four key issues:

the pipeline structure and integrity

pipeline operating conditions and practices

the pipeline easement

activities that could affect the above elements.



Effective environmental management in these areas will help minimise potential environmental effects.

The guidelines contained in this section can be used as a reference when preparing company Operations Manuals, Environmental Management Plans or an Environmental Management System (refer to section 2). For minor pipelines it is anticipated that this section of the Code may be adopted in its current form. The guidelines are consistent with AS2885.3 Pipelines – Gas and liquid petroleum – Operation and maintenance, and it is recommended that they be read in conjunction with this document.



5.1 PIPELINE EASEMENT MANAGEMENT

During pipeline operation, management of the pipeline easement may be required to protect the safety and integrity of the pipeline; to maintain access; and to maintain line of sight between pipeline marker posts. This section provides guidelines for the control and management of access, protection of soil and water quality, management of vegetation, undertaking earthworks, protection of landuse and fire prevention.

5.1.1 ACCESS

During operation, access to the pipeline easement is required on a regular basis for:

pipeline surveillance and inspections to identify areas of erosion and subsidence, areas requiring vegetation management, check cathodic protection, identify possible leaks, monitoring third party activity and identifying any unacceptable risks to the pipeline

monitoring and auditing of environmental conditions

performance of maintenance activities

construction of facilities or additional infrastructure.

The nature and frequency of access will vary according to the local environment, maintenance program and amount of unforeseen repairs needed. A higher frequency of access may be required following construction or operations and maintenance activities to ensure all environmental protection measures are functioning as intended. Access may be by foot, vehicle, aircraft or boat. In many cases access will be required through a number of landowners’ properties.

Australian Standard AS 2885 provides a framework for pipeline surveillance. Environmental aspects should be incorporated into the surveillance program. Issues or environmental aspects of particular note include:

activity on the easement and in the vicinity

use of access tracks and easement and any unauthorised traffic

access track condition and maintenance requirements

evidence of erosion, washouts or land subsidence

evidence of pipeline exposure

vegetation cover on the easement (excess levels requiring maintenance or insufficient levels requiring revegetation)

weed infestation

condition of watercourses and protection of natural flows

disturbance to protected heritage sites

indications of leaks or spills

the presence of refuse or litter.

An example checklist is provided in Appendix 4. This may be completed in the field and used as the basis of a field inspection report.

ACCESS – KEY ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES

Disturbance to native vegetation and wildlife

Damage to agricultural production or other landuses

Temporary disruption to residents, landholders and third parties

Soil compaction, erosion and sediment release to land and water.

ACCESS – ENVIRONMENTAL OBJECTIVES

1. To minimise disturbance to native flora and fauna



2. To minimise impacts on residents, landholders and third parties


ACCESS – ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT7

Management Measures

The pipeline easement shall only be used as an access for activities essential to ensuring the continued safe operation of the pipeline and protection of the local environment. The easement shall not be used as a general thoroughfare.

Access to the pipeline easement shall, as far as is practicable, be via existing tracks. Access to the pipeline easement through private property shall only occur with individual landowner or lessee approval.

Public access along the pipeline easement shall not be permitted unless that right already exists. Public access to the pipeline easement shall be restricted by measures such as disguise (e.g. dog leg service track entrances or vegetation), by physical barriers (e.g. gates, fences, log and rock barriers, trenches) and by signs.

Vegetation and soil erosion should be adequately controlled to allow continued access and safe navigation by vehicles.

Any use of internal farm tracks or private roads for pipeline surveillance must be with the agreement of the landowner. The landowner should be notified at least 24 hours before access is required, if possible. Where this is commonly not possible (e.g. some extensive petroleum operations), alternative agreements should be reached regarding ongoing access.

Except for specific purposes (e.g. rehabilitation areas, protection of heritage sites, safety hazard control or protection of pipeline facilities), the pipeline easement should not be fenced and allows landowners continued use of their properties.

The width of the access track shall be kept to the minimum practicable in order to enable safe vehicle movement.

In sensitive environments (such as National Parks and catchment areas) vehicle access should be restricted as appropriate, or frequency minimised, and surveillance undertaken by foot or aircraft.

Access to and along the pipeline easement should be minimised following periods of prolonged or heavy rainfall.

Access to the pipeline easement shall be managed to minimise potential weed impacts - refer to section 5.1.4 Weed Control.

Access to the pipeline easement shall be conducted in a manner that adequately considers potential noise or vibration impacts (refer to section 4.15). In some areas, access may need to be restricted to specific times as determined in consultation with local authorities or landowners.

Potential impacts associated with access to the easement should be monitored as part of a structured inspection and monitoring program.

7 Refer also to section 4.1 Access for information on access management and reinstatement if disturbance is necessary.



5.1.2 SOIL AND GROUND STABILITY

During the operation of buried pipelines, the pipeline easement may be vulnerable to soil and ground instability issues such as erosion and subsidence due to:

exposure of the ground surface to water and wind

lack of vegetation cover

vehicle and equipment movement.

Maintaining an adequate level of vegetation cover on the pipeline easement is vital to protect the soil resource. In the case of surface water flow, access tracks may be more vulnerable to erosion, particularly in steep areas, and require drainage controls to divert overland and channelled flows.

SOIL AND GROUND STABILITY – KEY ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES

Soil erosion

Sediment release to land and water

Damage to native vegetation and wildlife

Damage to agricultural production and other land uses

Subsidence of pipeline trench.

SOIL AND GROUND STABILITY – ENVIRONMENTAL OBJECTIVES

1. To minimise the potential for soil erosion

2. To adequately prevent or control sediment release to land and water

3. To avoid unacceptable damage to native vegetation or wildlife habitats

4. To prevent damage to agricultural production or other legitimate land uses

5. To minimise the risk of pipe exposure

6. To adequately control subsidence of the pipeline trench

SOIL AND GROUND STABILITY – ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT

Management Measures

Erosion and sediment controls should be installed in accordance with best practice and should be routinely checked to ensure they are in good condition, are stable and are effective. Repair works should be undertaken as required.

Where erosion is occurring due to inadequate vegetation cover on the easement, consideration should be given to promoting additional growth. Such work should be conducted in consultation with the landowner.

If significant erosion is encountered, erosion and sediment control structures should be constructed as per section 4.13 Erosion and Sediment Control.

Vehicle access should be restricted to stable ground where practicable. Additional care should be taken near watercourses and drainage lines.

The reinstated pipeline trench should be routinely checked for subsidence and exposure of pipe, particularly at watercourse crossings and drainage depressions.

Any imported material required for rehabilitation works should be obtained with landowner approval. Soil should preferably be sourced locally and be free of weeds and other contaminants.

Refer to section 5.5 Water Management for details on reducing the risk of water contamination.

Potential impacts associated with soil and ground stability should be monitored as part of a structured inspection and monitoring program.



5.1.3 VEGETATION MANAGEMENT

Vegetation cover provides ground stability and protection against erosion by reducing the volume and velocity of runoff, and assists in mitigating sediment pollution to downslope lands and waterways. Vegetation is also important in providing habitat for fauna.

VEGETATION MANAGEMENT – KEY ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES

Poor vegetation cover, which in turn may lead to:

erosion and sedimentation

loss of agricultural productive capacity

loss of visual amenity

Excessive vegetation regrowth

Disturbance to existing vegetation and faunal habitats

Establishment of weed species

VEGETATION MANAGEMENT – ENVIRONMENTAL OBJECTIVES

1. To promote and maintain stable vegetation cover

2. To minimise impacts on native flora and fauna, particularly threatened species

3. To minimise soil erosion and sedimentation

4. To avoid losses to agricultural production

5. To reduce visual impacts

6. To prevent and control weed invasion

VEGETATION MANAGEMENT – ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT

Management Measures

In areas of poor vegetation cover, where further impacts are likely, appropriate corrective actions shall be taken. Such measures shall be determined on a site-by-site basis and should be consistent with section 4.8 Reinstatement and Rehabilitation.

Regrowth vegetation on the pipeline easement shall be maintained to ensure root systems do not create a safety risk to the pipeline8 . The width of vegetation removal (i.e. the distance cleared on either side of the pipeline centreline) should be the minimum extent reasonably necessary to ensure the safe operation of the pipeline.

A buffer of riparian vegetation should be maintained for watercourses. If regrowth trees within this buffer require removal, it should be done by hand.

The pruning or removal of protected marine vegetation (including mangroves) must only occur with approval, under relevant state legislation.

When undertaking vegetation maintenance, minimum heights for vegetation removal should be determined, with consideration of vegetation type, land use sensitivity and topography. Minimum heights for mechanical maintenance may be between 150 to 300mm.

The access track should be kept navigable by adequately controlling vegetation growth.

Where possible, areas that have been recently rehabilitated (e.g. following construction or maintenance) should be avoided by vehicular or machinery movement. The period for which these areas should be avoided should be determined by qualified personnel, taking into account the area, soil type, climate and method of planting.

8 Also refer to Australian Standard AS2885.3



The removal or disturbance of vegetation outside the access tracks or pipeline easement is not permitted (unless the relevant regulatory and landowner approvals are obtained).

Rehabilitation success should be monitored in accordance with an approved monitoring program. Further rehabilitation works may be required in areas where vegetation establishment has been less than acceptable. Such works should be conducted in consultation with the relevant landholder and should be consistent with Section 4.8 Reinstatement and Rehabilitation.



5.1.4 WEED CONTROL

A weed may be defined as a plant that has, or has the potential to have, a detrimental effect on economic, social or conservation values9. Environmental weeds are generally considered to be plants that invade areas of native vegetation, usually adversely affecting the regeneration and survival of native flora and fauna. Agricultural weeds are problems in farmlands and many of these are proclaimed noxious weeds. Following construction, the cleared pipeline easement has the potential for invasion of weed species due to:

disturbance of topsoil

removal of vegetation competition

creation of favourable conditions such as increased water and light

redistribution of propagative material

introduction of weeds from outside the easement.

Appropriately trained personnel are required to identify potential weed problems and to develop suitable control procedures. A specific control program may be required for each weed species, or be determined on a site-by-site basis. The program will need to meet the requirements of relevant local or state authorities and should be developed and implemented in consultation with the relevant landholders. Note that, in some areas with a high level of weed invasion, it may be impractical to maintain a weed free pipeline easement. In such areas, pipeline surveillance should monitor the density and abundance of weeds and schedule weed control as required.

WEED CONTROL – KEY ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES

Competition from weed species and loss of agricultural land use and native flora

Reduction in diversity of native species

Reduced primary industry productivity and produce quality

Impacts to sensitive environments adjacent to weed infected areas

Loss of visual amenity

WEED CONTROL – ENVIRONMENTAL OBJECTIVES

1. To minimise the introduction and/or spread of weeds

2. To promptly identify areas requiring weed control

3. To eliminate infestations of noxious weed species

4. To effectively control weed species

5. To avoid impacts on primary industries

WEED CONTROL – ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT

Management Measures

An appropriately detailed weed control program should be incorporated into the Pipeline Operations Manual.

The program should be developed in consultation with local authorities (refer also to section 4.17 Weed Control). Where relevant, the program should utilise information obtained during the construction phase (such as the use of weed inventories).

Regular inspections, monitoring and auditing of the pipeline easement should include an assessment of weed impacts. If significant infestations are found, aspects noted should include:

9 Agricultural and Resource Management Council of Australia and New Zealand, Australian and New Zealand Environment and Conservation Council and Forestry Minister (1997). The National Weeds Strategy: A Strategic approach to weed problems of national significance. Canberra: Commonwealth of Australia.



weed species that are present (noxious weeds should be noted as such)

estimated coverage of total area

possible reasons for outbreak

suggested technique for eradication.

Patrol officers should be trained in the identification of declared noxious and environmental weed species and techniques for their eradication.

The presence of noxious weeds should be reported to local authorities and the control of significant species should be conducted in conjunction with local authorities.

The transportation of soil along the pipeline corridor should be avoided where practicable. In the event that soil must be imported from another location, the procedures described in section 4.17 Weed Control must be followed.

Maintenance crews should be made aware of weed control requirements and their activities monitored by the patrol officer as appropriate.

In declared weed infestation areas, all vehicles and machinery entering or exiting the pipeline easement or other work sites shall comply with hygiene requirements (such as wash down). All soil and organic matter should be removed, including under the vehicle and in the cabin or load trays.

Evidence of compliance with hygiene requirements should be documented, e.g. on a Vehicle Wash down Register.

Where demountable buildings are used on the pipeline easement or work site, as part of weed control, the floors will be cleaned prior to entry and upon leaving, by brushing, to ensure no foreign seeds are introduced.

Frequent access to the pipeline easement, such as in urban areas, may increase the risk of weed introduction and establishment. In areas where vehicular movement is so frequent that processes such as wash down are deemed impractical, other suitable controls should be considered, such as a stabilised area of gravel or cattle grid to remove sediment from tyres.



5.1.5 CONTROL OF DISEASES

Unless adequately managed, the movement of operations and maintenance vehicles, equipment and personnel may spread disease along the pipeline easement. Disease may adversely impact plant and animal health, and pose a threat to livestock, horticulture and forestry industries. Of particular note are diseases such as Dieback, Mundulla Yellows, Phylloxera, Footrot and Bovine or Ovine Johne’s Disease. Note that some diseases may also be harmful to human health. This section presents guidelines for the prevention and control of the spread of diseases during pipeline operation.

DISEASE CONTROL – KEY ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES

Damage to native vegetation possibly leading to death

Loss of biodiversity

Poor regeneration

Impaired visual amenity

Reduction in agricultural productivity

Adverse effects on livestock health

DISEASE CONTROL – ENVIRONMENTAL OBJECTIVES

1. To minimise the spread of disease onto or along the pipeline easement, and into adjoining properties

2. To prevent the introduction of disease into clean (disease-free) areas

DISEASE CONTROL – ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT

Management Measures

Information on disease infected areas and disease outbreaks should be obtained from the relevant state government agricultural agencies, and the relevant hygiene requirements and access restrictions conveyed to operations personnel.

Areas of high conservation value that pipeline easement passes through (eg. National Parks) and require special protection should be identified and defined on pipeline maps.

An appropriately detailed disease control program should be incorporated into the Pipeline Operations Manual.

Machinery and vehicles should be cleaned prior to entering and exiting disease areas. The method of cleaning is dependent upon the type of disease, government agency hygiene requirements, remoteness of the area and water availability. Types of cleaning include wash down with sterilized high-pressure water or application of cleaning solutions. Cleaning should remove all soil and vegetative material from the interior and exterior of vehicles, and from boots and PPE.

Vehicle cleaning points should be located close to infected areas along the pipeline easement to reduce the risk of spreading infected material.

Demountable buildings or temporary facilities used in disease areas along pipeline easement to have thorough removal of soil and vegetative matter prior to demobilisation

Operational and field staff should be trained adequately in hygiene procedures.

Vehicles and machinery should be prevented from carrying any soil or vegetable matter that may be infected with disease into or out of the area.

The transportation of soil along the pipeline easement should be localised where practicable, and avoided when working in or near disease areas.

Evidence of compliance with hygiene requirements should be documented, such as on a Vehicle Wash down Register.

In potentially affected areas, disease should be monitored in accordance with an approved monitoring program.



5.1.6 EARTHWORKS

Earthworks may be required for maintenance or construction of additional facilities within the pipeline easement. Minor earthworks may be required in order to maintain access tracks and drainage controls, or to stabilise areas of erosion, and are generally of relatively short duration and minimal depth of excavation. Earthworks involving excavations to expose the pipeline to undertake coating and corrosion repairs, or to protect the pipeline from land subsidence, will result in a greater level of environmental disturbance. Such works are considered to be construction and should be conducted in accordance with section 4 Environmental Guidelines - Construction.

EARTHWORKS – KEY ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES

Soil erosion and sediment release

Interruption to natural surface and groundwater flows

Disturbance to native vegetation and wildlife

Damage to agricultural production or other land uses

Temporary disruption to residents, landholders and third parties

Introduction of weed species.

EARTHWORKS – ENVIRONMENTAL OBJECTIVES

1. To minimise impacts on soil and water and environmental flows

2. To minimise disturbance to native flora and fauna

3. To minimise disruption to residents, landholders and third parties

EARTHWORKS – ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT

Management Measures

Earthworks shall be undertaken in accordance with the principles and guidelines outlined in Section 4.

Prior to commencing earthworks, adequate notification shall be given to surrounding residences and landowners.

During earthworks, topsoil should be stockpiled separately from subsoil, and respread over the disturbed area at completion of works in order to aid regeneration.

During earthworks, erosion and sediment controls should be installed in accordance with best practice (e.g. Blue Book), and should be routinely checked to ensure they are in good condition, are stable and are effective. Repair works should be undertaken as required.

Should earthworks occur in an area with known or potential acid sulphate soils, a neutralising agent (such as agricultural lime) should be used to neutralise soil during stockpiling or backfilling.

Only clean fill shall be used if additional material is required10. Fill material should preferably be sourced locally and be compatible with the surrounding area. If the area requiring earthworks is within a sensitive environment, only weed free certified soil should be used.

10 See Australian Standard AS2885.3 section 3.2.4.5.



5.1.7 LAND USE

Many pipeline easements pass through private or leasehold land that is used for other activities. In these situations cooperative agreements have usually been negotiated with landowners, allowing the landowner continued use of their land while the pipeline operator is allowed rights of access for operation and maintenance of the pipeline.

LAND USE – KEY ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES

Disruption of existing land use rights and practices

Disturbance of residents, landowners and third parties

LAND USE – ENVIRONMENTAL OBJECTIVES

1. To minimise disruption to existing land use rights and practices

2. To minimise disturbance to residents, landowners and third parties

3. To maintain appropriate consultation with all relevant landowners

LAND USE – ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT

Management Measures

Consultation with relevant landholders and regulatory authorities should be undertaken with regard to any special management measures required for an area/property such as weed or disease management provisions, quarantine provisions, certified area provisions (e.g. organic, disease/weed free).

Where practicable, operations and maintenance activities should be scheduled during appropriate periods with consideration given to land use activities, including livestock and crops, in order to reduce potential adverse effects.

Where practical landowners, residents within proximity to the pipeline and relevant third parties should be notified in advance of operation and maintenance activities that are likely to cause disruption.

To facilitate landowner contact, the pipeline operator should maintain a database of landowner contact details covering all lands that the pipeline passes through.

Regular contact with landowners should be maintained and all relevant pipeline and easement management issues discussed.

New landowners should be briefed regarding approved and prohibited land uses on the pipeline easement, as well as the safety, emergency response and operational considerations of the pipeline.



5.1.8 FIRE PREVENTION

Generally, the risk of fire ignition and spread as a result of pipeline operation and maintenance activities is considered low. The main fire ignition sources include patrol vehicles and spark-emitting maintenance work such as welding, acetylene cutting, grinding, and the use of gas torches for heating, drying and shrinking of coating sleeves. This section provides guidelines for monitoring and maintaining the pipeline to minimise fire risks.

FIRE PREVENTIION – KEY ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES

Injury to public or personnel

Damage to, or loss of, flora, fauna and habitat

Damage to agricultural production

Damage to, or loss of, third party infrastructure

FIRE PREVENTIION – ENVIRONMENTAL OBJECTIVES

1. To minimise the risk of fire ignition

2. To prevent the spread of fire in the event of ignition

3. To protect the public and personnel

4. To protect property and minimise damage or loss

5. To protect flora, fauna and habitats and minimise damage or loss

6. To provide adequate response in the event of ignition

FIRE PREVENTIION – ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT

Management Measures

Measures to prevent and respond to fire incidents should be developed and implemented in accordance with:

AS 2885.3

construction fire management plans (if available)

section 3.5 Safety and Emergency Planning.

Fire management strategies should address prevention, preparedness, emergency contacts, equipment, response and training.

Pipeline operations and maintenance shall be conducted in accordance with the requirements of regulatory and local fire authorities. In particular, operations shall comply with relevant fire restrictions, notification requirements and permitting procedures.

Debris from vegetation management activities should not be left on the pipeline easement in a manner that will increase the fuel load (e.g. stockpiled). Debris should be re-spread or chipped and re-spread in a thin layer over the area. Large quantities of vegetation debris should be removed from site.

All equipment shall comply with relevant fire safety standards (e.g. use of exhaust spark inhibitors).

Machinery and vehicles not in use shall be parked in areas of low fire risk (e.g. not parked over shrubs, tall grass or cleared vegetation debris).

Vehicles shall be regularly checked to ensure that combustible materials such as grass and debris do not build up in critical areas where ignition could occur.

Where flammable or combustible chemicals are required to be stored on-site, appropriate fire-fighting equipment shall be available. Incompatible chemicals should not be stored together. Where practicable flammable liquids should be stored in flammable liquid cabinets.



5.2 AIR EMISSIONS

Air emissions from planned gas pipeline operations are generally small in quantity. Emissions that may have an adverse effect on air quality include:

the release of natural gas during pipeline purging to allow certain maintenance activities

the products of combustion (particularly nitrous oxides) associated with flaring

the release of odorant (or odorised gas)

vehicle and machinery exhausts

dust emissions from vehicle and equipment movement.

AIR EMISSIONS – KEY ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES

Release of air pollutants

Greenhouse gas emissions

Odour emissions

Temporary reduction of amenity associated with dust

Localised impacts on sensitive flora and fauna

AIR EMISSIONS – ENVIRONMENTAL OBJECTIVES


2. To minimise greenhouse gas emissions

3. To minimise the creation of safety hazards

4. To minimise disturbance to the community

AIR EMISSIONS – ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT

Management Measures

The planned release of gas from pipelines (including the flaring of purged gas) shall be minimised for economic and greenhouse gas emissions reasons.

Where practicable, planned gas releases (including the flaring of purged gas) shall be conducted under favourable meteorological conditions that will facilitate rapid atmospheric dispersion of the gas.

Periodic leakage surveys shall be conducted to detect fugitive gas releases from the pipeline as per AS 2885.3 requirements.

Companies should complete a greenhouse gas reduction strategy as an overall goal during operation. Membership of initiatives such as the ‘Greenhouse Challenge’ should be considered.

Where technically and economically feasible, natural gas should be flared rather than vented.

Gas vents shall be located an appropriate distance from residential areas and infrastructure in accordance with relevant regulatory and Australian Standards requirements.

Adjacent residents and local authorities shall be advised of the pending major venting operation prior to undertaking the activity.

Appropriate dust emission controls shall be applied during operation as necessary, based on the procedures detailed in section 4.16 Dust Control.

If dust problems still occur at particular sections of the easement, the following measures should be adopted as appropriate:

revegetate using existing species and prevent access until vegetation is established.



ensure speed limits are appropriate and being observed.

minimise vehicle movements.

use geotextiles, hessian or mulched vegetation on localised areas.

if available, spray water on the problem areas.

In areas of heavy "bulldust", the easement may be stripped and the more stable subsurface watered to provide a firm base (although this may not always be possible for very deep bulldust).

Where required, odorisation of the gas (i.e. mercaptan dosing) should be undertaken in a manner that minimises the risk of accidental release of odorant. Odorising equipment should be appropriately maintained and waste materials should be disposed of in accordance with section 5.7 Waste Management.

In the case of a spill of odorant, a solution of common liquid bleach or pool chlorine should be applied to the affected area to prevent further release of the odour (spill kits or specific cleanup products may also be available). The resultant material should then be disposed of in an appropriate manner.



5.3 NOISE EMISSIONS

During operation and maintenance activities on the pipeline, noise emissions may be generated by:

vehicles and machinery travelling along the pipeline easement and access tracks

activities such as earthworks and vegetation management

maintenance at aboveground sites

gas vented from pressurised equipment

equipment noise at aboveground sites.

Noise emission, in particular those with tonality, modulation or impulsiveness, may lead to adverse impacts on local residents. All plant and facilities should be designed and operated to comply with relevant State noise regulations and Australian Standard AS 1055 – Acoustics.

This section outlines recommendations to avoid or attenuate noise and establish a process for dealing with complaints.

NOISE EMISSIONS – KEY ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES

Disturbance to local residents and other landusers

Disturbance to stock and wildlife

NOISE EMISSIONS – ENVIRONMENTAL OBJECTIVES

1. To minimise operation noise impacts on adjacent residents and other land users

2. To minimise operation noise impacts on wildlife and livestock

NOISE EMISSIONS – ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT

Management Measures

Pipeline operations shall comply with the following regarding noise control:

all relevant regulatory requirements

AS 2885.3

section 4.15 Noise Control (if any construction activity is required).

Equipment should be selected in consideration of its noise emissions. Where practicable, equipment should be selected that is likely to result in the lowest noise impact whilst still completing the required task.

Equipment shall be fitted with appropriate noise abatement devices (e.g. mufflers, silencers and screens) and be maintained in good working order.

Landowners and local residents shall be notified of potential noise from maintenance or project activities prior to the commencement of activities.

Where practicable, excessively noisy activities shall be scheduled for periods that are less likely to result in a noise nuisance. This decision should be made in consultation with the residents.

Where appropriate, noise monitoring shall be conducted.

Appropriate strategies for dealing with noise complaints shall be implemented. In particular, noise complaints will be investigated and remedial action taken as required.



5.4 HERITAGE – NATURAL AND BUILT ENVIRONMENTS

Heritage sites are of cultural value to the community and are protected by law. Such sites may comprise areas or items of archaeological, anthropological, ethnological, environmental or scientific significance. While it is unlikely that damage to heritage sites will result from pipeline operations (i.e. the pipeline easement was heavily disturbed during pipeline construction), undisturbed sites on the easement or within proximity to the easement must be afforded all reasonable protection from disturbance. Appropriate approvals must be obtained prior to any activity that will disturb or destroy a heritage site or item. The operations workforce should be made aware of the location and value of these sites in order to ensure impacts are avoided.

HERITAGE – KEY ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES

The disturbance to or destruction of heritage sites or items.

HERITAGE – ENVIRONMENTAL OBJECTIVES

1. To avoid impacts on heritage sites on or near the easement or in the vicinity of associated facilities

2. To implement an effective consultation program with heritage and community groups, regulatory authorities and other relevant stakeholders

HERITAGE – ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT

Management Measures

A database of heritage sites should be maintained during operations (this database should have been prepared prior to pipeline construction by suitably qualified persons with appropriate input from indigenous communities).

The heritage database should provide appropriate detail regarding the significance, location and management measures for each site. This database shall be available to patrol officers and environmental advisers and auditors during operations.

All operations activities must comply with the permit and reporting requirements under the relevant State and Commonwealth heritage legislation

Sites that are within or adjacent to the easement should be given adequate physical protection. Such measures include:

installing barriers such as logs or fences

installing appropriate signs.

Physical protection measures shall be adequately maintained.

Patrol officers should be adequately trained in heritage and cultural issues and management.

Patrol officers will record any disturbance to heritage sites. Actions to address site disturbance shall be taken in consultation with regulatory authorities and local community groups, as necessary.

Where appropriate, patrol officers shall monitor any work activities on the easement.

A program shall be developed and implemented to facilitate effective consultation with heritage and community groups, regulatory authorities and other relevant stakeholders.



5.5 WATER MANAGEMENT

Water is an important feature of the Australian environment. Pipeline operations should aim to minimise potential impacts on water quality and/or quantity. Such impacts may be associated with sediment loads to streams, the potential for spills of product or chemicals and the maintenance of appropriate surface and groundwater flow regimes.

WATER MANAGEMENT – KEY ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES

Reduction in water quality as a result of increased sediment load

Contamination of surface or groundwater

Altered drainage patterns and water flow regimes

Secondary impacts on flora and fauna as a result of altered water quality or quantity.

WATER MANAGEMENT – ENVIRONMENTAL OBJECTIVES

1. To control erosion in all operational areas

2. To minimise the volume of sediment entering waterways from the pipeline corridor, associated facilities or operational activities

3. To prevent contamination of surface water, watercourses and groundwater

4. To manage surface water flows and to minimise potential adverse impacts associated with altered flow regimes

5. To minimise impacts to riparian, aquatic and water dependant flora and fauna

WATER MANAGEMENT – ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT

Management Measures

Operations and maintenance activities occurring in or near watercourses may require approval under relevant state legislation. All activities must comply with legislative requirements and the conditions of any permits/licences issues under the legislation.

Erosion and sediment controls should be installed and managed in accordance with best practice (e.g. Blue Book). Refer also to section 5.1.2 Soil and Ground Stability.

Where practical, the number of watercourse crossings should be minimised. Where required, designated crossing points should be used and the bed and banks maintained in a stable condition.

Survey details of the original contours of water crossings should be incorporated into the “As Built” documentation. This may include details such as top and toe, invert, over bends, sags, bank slopes, watercourse substrata and position of the pipe.

Stability of the pipeline easement and, in particular, the condition of watercourse bed, banks and riparian vegetation should be inspected in accordance with an agreed inspection program.

Erosion control measures such as silt fences, berms and drains shall be appropriately maintained. Monitoring should note the condition of such measures and the need for remedial action.

Should erosion and sedimentation occur, appropriate corrective action should be undertaken (consideration to be given to permanent rather than temporary repair). This may include restoring bank profiles, reseeding slopes, replacing sandbags or gabions or installing additional silt fences or geotextile fabric.

Pipeline integrity shall be monitored and maintained to prevent the release of product to the environment.

The refuelling or maintenance of equipment and vehicles should be conducted as far away as is reasonably practical from any surface water body to reduce the risk of contamination in the event of accidental fuel or oil release.



All chemicals used during operations shall be transported, stored, handled and disposed of in accordance with the requirements of the relevant dangerous goods and environmental legislation and industry standards.

Hazardous wastes shall not be stored or handled within the vicinity of any surface water.

In accordance with section 5.8 Pipeline Spill Prevention and Response, detailed spill response procedures shall be developed, approved and implemented. Any spills or releases of product or chemicals shall be managed in accordance with such procedures.

During pipeline operations, the disturbance of acid sulphate soils should be avoided or minimised. Barriers or other control measures should be implemented to ensure such soils are not released to surrounding land and water.

Changes to the pattern of water flow should be monitored. Prior to installing any new surface control structures (such as berms or diversion drains) the implications for downstream environments should be considered.

Where appropriate, monitoring programs should be implemented to identify potential impacts to riparian, aquatic and water dependant flora and fauna. Only suitably qualified personnel should conduct such programs.



A main line valve. W. Mathieson

5.6 MANAGEMENT OF PIPELINE FACILITIES

Aboveground facilities associated with pipeline operations comprise compressor stations, pressure reduction stations, mainline valves, delivery facilities and scraper stations. Permanent buildings may be constructed at major facilities, such as compressor stations, but the majority of facilities are controlled remotely. The high-pressure equipment located within aboveground facilities may create issues associated with noise, gas leaks, security, visual impacts and fire risk. Additional operational activities and surveillance related to aboveground facilities should be detailed in the Safety and Operating Plan11 .

PIPELINE FACILITIES – KEY ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES

Safety hazards resulting from increased traffic

Bushfire and internal fire risk

Noise disturbance to local residents, other land users, stock and wildlife

Reduction of visual amenity

PIPELINE FACILITIES – ENVIRONMENTAL OBJECTIVES

1. To eliminate unacceptable safety hazards

2. To minimise the risk of bushfire

3. To minimise the impact of noise, visibility, odour and traffic to the local community

PIPELINE FACILITIES – ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT

Management Measures

Facility sites should be securely fenced and locked to prevent entry by unauthorised persons.

Fire prevention methods outlined in section 5.1.8 should be implemented as appropriate

Fire fighting equipment shall be maintained on-site in areas of higher fire risk (e.g. at facilities close to residences, on cropping lands or areas of sensitive native vegetation).

Where appropriate, the ground surface of facilities will be gravelled to reduce fire risks and prevent weed infestation.

Noise from pipeline facilities shall be managed in accordance with section 5.3 Noise Emissions.

Potential odour issues shall be managed in accordance with section 5.2 Air Emissions.

Pipeline facilities shall be kept in a clean and tidy condition. Where visual treatments (such as painting or screening by vegetation or other means were applied during construction) such treatments shall be maintained in an effective condition.

In residential areas, or areas of tourism and leisure, changes to visual impacts should be considered from time-to-time and additional measures adopted where necessary.

Areas for storage of liquids such as oil or pipeline liquids should be bunded and drains from bunds kept clear of foreign material.

11 See Australian Standard AS2885.3 section 3.3.




During the operation of a pipeline, domestic and industrial wastes such as waste oils, packaging, drums and general refuse may be generated. All waste management practices must comply with the relevant State legislation and the local planning requirements. Waste material may be generated by internally cleaning the pipeline (i.e. using pigs). Operations personnel also generate sewage, putrescible waste and general refuse.

All wastes must be disposed of in an environmentally acceptable manner. Waste management procedures must comply with all necessary regulatory requirements and shall be based on the following principles listed in order of priority:

reduce wastes at the source

reuse materials where possible

recycle wastes where practicable

dispose of wastes appropriately and responsibly.

Historically, asbestos was used as a pipeline coating. The removal of asbestos, in particular friable asbestos products, poses health risks to humans if the fibres are inhaled. Any material that contains more than 1 per cent asbestos by volume should be regarded as asbestos material. If disturbance or disposal of this pipeline type is needed, appropriate safety measures should be employed.


Contamination of soil and water

Health risks to the community and the workforce

Adverse effects on native vegetation and wildlife

Reduction of visual amenity

Inefficient use of resources


1. To avoid the contamination of soil and water

2. To minimise potential risks to workers and the public

3. To minimise adverse effects on native vegetation and wildlife

4. To minimise visual impacts

5. To maximise the efficiency of resource use


Management Measures

A comprehensive waste management plan should be developed and implemented, detailing the required waste management procedures.

Waste material is not to be left or buried on the pipeline easement.

Management measures for solid inert wastes such as building rubble, concrete, bricks, timber, plastic, glass, metals, bitumen and tyres include:

Providing suitable collection points for reusable and recyclable wastes such as timber skids, pallets, drums, scrap metals and pipe transport spacers for salvage

supplying designated collection bins at work sites for aluminium cans, glass and paper recycling (where recycling facilities are available)

collecting and transporting general refuse to landfill sites approved by the local authorities

development of on-site disposal areas conforming to regulatory authority



requirements.

Management of hazardous liquid wastes such as radiography or cleaning chemicals and waste oils shall comply with relevant regulatory requirements. Management measures include:

safe storage prior to collection and transport off-site for reuse, recycling, treatment or disposal at locations approved by relevant regulatory authorities

storage areas must be suitably designed to contain any spills and prevent contamination of soil or water (e.g. bunded or otherwise contained in accordance with statutory requirements)

contaminated soils (e.g. loading bay drain/pig trap contents, oil/fuel spills), are required to be managed according to their concentration of contaminants and their leachability. Appropriate disposal options shall be determined in consultation with the relevant environment protection authorities.

Sewage and sullage disposal shall be via approved septic systems, mobile chemical treatment systems or, alternatively, disposed into municipal sewage treatment plants. Recycled wastewater may be utilised for plant irrigation at permanent pipeline facilities.

Management measures for putrescible wastes such as discarded food, domestic garbage, commercial wastes and garden clippings include:

collection and transportation to a landfill approved by the relevant regulatory authority

on-site disposal at camp or work sites should only be conducted in remote areas with the approval of relevant authorities and where storage and transportation to a registered landfill depot may lead to the creation of unacceptable health risks

camp, work and storage sites shall be maintained to an orderly and hygienic standard

appropriate measures shall be taken to ensure litter accumulation is avoided, such as the provision of litter bins on-site and regular site maintenance duties.

Asbestos should be processed and handled in accordance with regulatory requirements. Generally, management measures include:

a professional contractor should be used to manage the collection and disposal of asbestos

asbestos must be handled so as to ensure there is no release of fibres or dust to the air. Where possible, the asbestos should be wet in order to prevent dust being released. The material should be placed in polythene bags (0.2mm thick) or double-wrapped in sheets of polythene. Packages should carry an asbestos warning label

owners of vehicles transporting asbestos may be required to hold a waste transport permit. This requirement should be checked with the regulatory authorities. Vehicles must be carefully cleaned following asbestos transport

asbestos shall only be disposed of at an appropriately licensed site.

Soil with an asbestos content equal to or greater than 1 per cent by volume should be regarded as a hazardous waste. Measures as outlined above should be used.



5.8 PIPELINE SPILL PREVENTION AND RESPONSE

Pipelines carrying liquids such as oil, condensate or chemicals have the potential to impact on public safety and the environment in the event of pipeline failure. Pipelines are individually designed to minimise the chance of such failures.

Operations activities on any pipeline (gas or liquid) has the potential for spills, such as fuels and oils from plant and equipment, spills of chemicals in storage compounds, or spill of contaminated water (such as from water bath heaters).

Spill Prevention and Response Plans should be prepared for all pipelines where the impact of spills may be detrimental to public safety or the environment. This section deals with general operational procedures to minimise the risk and consequence of a liquid spill.

SPILL PREVENTION AND RESPONSE – KEY ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES

Safety hazards to the workforce and the public

Contamination of soil and water including groundwater

Damage to or death of flora and fauna

SPILL PREVENTION AND RESPONSE – ENVIRONMENTAL OBJECTIVES

1. To avoid unacceptable safety hazards

2. To prevent contamination of soil and water

3. To prevent the direct and indirect impacts on vegetation communities, fauna and fauna habitats

SPILL PREVENTION AND RESPONSE – ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT

Management Measures

Pipelines shall be designed and operated in accordance with AS 2885 to minimise the risk of pipeline failure.

Pipelines shall be designed to limit the volume of material released, particularly in sensitive areas.

Detailed Pipeline Spill Prevention and Response Plans shall be developed for all operational pipelines where spills may be detrimental to public safety or the environment. Plans shall address local issues, such as areas of particular environmental, social or cultural sensitivity.

Spill Prevention and Response Plans shall address:

monitoring and detection systems

notification and reporting procedures (both internal and external)

call-out procedures; contact lists and incident investigation procedures.

measures required to halt the spill (i.e. control of pumps, valves, etc.)

spill containment procedures and procedures to safely recover the spilt material

reinstatement and rehabilitation procedures

requirements for disposal of contaminated soil, clean up material, etc.

environmental impact assessment

personnel responsibilities

equipment requirements, location, storage, maintenance and transport

communications and logistics

Spill response procedures shall comply with all relevant regulatory requirements.

Workforce training shall be conducted in spill response and recovery procedures. Spill response exercises shall be regularly conducted for operational pipelines.



FUEL AND CHEMICAL STORAGE

The use and storage of oils, fuel and chemicals on-site can pose a threat to the environment and personnel if not managed properly. Management procedures must be put in place prior to the introduction and use of any chemical on the pipeline easement or associated facilities. Control of these substances, from both environmental and safety aspects, relies primarily on the selection of chemicals that pose little risk to the safety of employees or the environment. Emphasis is then placed on the safe and secure transport, storage and application of chemicals to prevent harm to the environment.

– KEY ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES

Contamination of soil and water, including ground water

Safety hazards to the workforce and the public

Air and odour emissions

– ENVIRONMENTAL OBJECTIVES


2. To avoid unacceptable safety hazards


– ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT

Management Measures

The storage and handling of fuels and chemicals shall comply with all relevant legislation and Australian Standard AS1940 – The storage and handling of flammable and combustible liquids.

Material Safety Data Sheets should be obtained when purchasing chemicals and should be available on-site for all chemicals stored and handled. Persons handling chemicals shall wear appropriate personal protective equipment and shall be provided with appropriate training.

The minimum practicable volume of chemicals should be stored on-site.

Chemical use should be minimised where practicable.

Fuels, lubricants and chemicals shall be stored and, where practicable, handled within containment facilities (e.g. bunded areas, leak proof trays) designed to prevent the release of spilt substances to the environment.

Where practicable, fuels and chemicals shall not be stored or handled in the vicinity of natural or built waterways or water storage areas (e.g. streams, canals, dams, lakes).

Appropriate fuel and chemical handling procedures shall be adopted with the aim of avoiding spills to land or water.

Appropriate spill response equipment, including containment and recovery equipment, shall be available on-site.

Detailed spill response procedures, for land and water, shall be formulated - refer also to section 5.8 Pipeline Spill Prevention and Response.

Workforce training shall be conducted in fuel and chemical handling and spill response and recovery procedures.

C O D E O F E N V I R O N M E N T A L P R A C T I C E – O N S H O R E P I P E L I N E S D E C O M M I S S I O N I N G


6 PIPELINE DECOMMISSIONING

Decommissioning (as defined in this Code) encompasses all activities where petroleum products are no longer flowing through the pipeline, including:

suspension - pipelines are not depressurised but are physically isolated from the pipeline system

abandonment in place - pipelines are physically disconnected from the pipe system, purged and cleaned with water or inert material and sealed (capped) at the ends

removal - pipelines are entirely removed from the pipeline easement, typically only applicable to above ground pipelines

Decommissioning of onshore pipelines needs to assess both the environmental and commercial costs of the chosen strategy. This section of the Code addresses the issues in determining the best strategy for the decommissioning of onshore pipelines in Australia.

In this section the pipelines generally considered under this Code are those designed, built and operated in accordance with AS 2885. In the event that the utility is no longer required, the pipeline will be decommissioned in accordance with Legislative Requirements, relevant Australian Standards and this Code.

6.1 LEGISLATIVE REQUIREMENTS

Legislation and/or pipeline licences in most Australian states indicate that the regulation of decommissioning of pipelines will be based on the standards of the day and/or as directed by the relevant Minister.

The Australian Standard AS 2885 Pipelines – Gas and liquid petroleum provides some guidance on the abandonment of a pipeline (see section 3.1.1 for a description of AS 2885). There are also international guidelines available for reference. The scope of this Code of Practice shall only be applicable where a Pipeline Licence exists or the pipeline system is designed to AS 2885.

Industry should refer to the legislation of the day and consult with relevant government agencies for advice when commencing a pipeline decommissioning project.

6.1.1 PIPELINE DESIGN LIFE

The planned life of a natural gas pipeline is dependent upon the viability of gas markets and supply, and may be in operation for several years. Pipeline engineering design takes into consideration the planned life of the pipeline. Where it is intended to operate a hydrocarbon pipeline beyond the design life, a detailed investigation shall be made of the design, operating conditions and history of the pipeline in order to determine condition and any limits to continued safe operation of the pipeline. Steps required for this are outlined in AS 2885.3. The pipeline shall be operated under the approved conditions and the limits established from the detailed investigation. Approval is required as determined by AS 2885.

6.2 DECOMMISSIONING OPTIONS

When a pipeline is no longer required (e.g. exhaustion of supply, reduced market, safety reasons), it is important that the pipeline be decommissioned in an environmentally responsible manner. Whilst it may be possible to consider Suspension as an operations option for the purpose of this report, Suspension shall be included in decommissioning.

A pipeline may be segmented with more than one of the three options (suspension, abandonment, removal) applying to the decommissioning, depending upon environmental considerations, future development potential or stakeholder requirements. International best practice recognises that removing the pipe from the ground is unlikely to be a commercially or environmentally viable option (refer DTI, OSPAR, ARPEL, APPEA).



6.2.1 SUSPENSION

The pipelines are not depressurised but are physically isolated from the pipeline system. The pipeline may be purged with inert material, such as nitrogen or allowed to contain non corrosive petroleum fluids and blinded at the ends. The pipelines are maintained as per an operating pipeline including relevant standards, the monitoring of the pressure, maintenance to the cathodic protection system, and maintenance as determined in the safety and operating plan.

6.2.2 ABANDONMENT IN PLACE

Pipelines abandoned in place are physically disconnected from the pipe system, purged and cleaned with water or inert material and sealed (capped) at the ends. The pipelines are not pressurised and are not maintained, with cathodic protection system disconnected. The pipe would then be left to corrode and biodegrade in situ. All above ground structures are removed (including marker signs), and the easement rehabilitated. Maintenance of the easement is discontinued after an agreed monitoring period, and the easement is relinquished.

Abandonment of buried pipelines in situ is environmentally preferable to the disturbance associated with the removal of pipelines, which involves excavation. Pipelines are buried below the normal depth likely to be disturbed by agricultural activities and are therefore unlikely to affect future land use activities. Buried pipelines should only be removed in the case where damage to the surrounding environment or disturbance to third party amenity (resulting from the removal) is low.

It is recognised that long term structural deterioration of a pipeline abandoned in place may lead to some measure of ground subsidence. The Canadian Association of Petroleum Producers has examined this issue and determined that subsidence is unlikely to be a critical issue as a structural failure due to corrosion may take many decades and that significant lengths of pipeline would not collapse at any one time due to the localised nature of the pitting process. Even if a total collapse did occur, it was determined that ground subsidence would be negligible for pipelines up to 232.9mm in diameters (NPS 12). Filling with an inert material may be appropriate at critical locations (e.g. infrastructure crossings). This will need to be determined in consultation with the relevant authorities at the time of decommissioning and take into account the long term plans for the pipeline.

Therefore, in situ decommissioning (i.e. Abandonment in Place) for inactive pipelines is usually considered the best option of decommissioning, subject to:

licence conditions

stakeholder requirements in terms of future development

environmental considerations such as pipeline cleanliness, or exposure to subsidence or water conduiting.

Buried pipelines should generally be left in situ, particularly those:

that are adequately buried or trenched and which are not subject to future development and are likely to remain so

where burial or trenching is undertaken to a sufficient depth and it is likely to be permanent

that can be adequately cleaned, and do not contain environmentally contaminating materials

that, due to structural damage or deterioration or other cause, cannot be recovered safely and efficiently.

6.2.3 REMOVAL

This deactivation status applies to pipelines that are physically and entirely removed from the pipeline easement. The pipeline is depressurised and purged with inert material, such as nitrogen. All above ground and below ground structures are removed and the pipeline easement rehabilitated. Maintenance of the easement is discontinued after an agreed monitoring period, and the easement is relinquished.

Above ground pipelines may be decommissioned by removal, but removal would need to be considered on a case by case, risk assessed basis.



7 ENVIRONMENTAL GUIDELINES - DECOMMISSIONING

Decommissioning of pipelines requires a careful assessment and balancing of environmental issues and close communication with regulators and other stakeholders. Key considerations include: health and safety implications, environmental impacts, technical options and cost.

This section provides guidance for the application of best practice decommissioning procedures and environmental management that aim to prevent or mitigate potential environmental impacts during decommissioning.

This section can be used as a reference when preparing pipeline Safety and Operating Plans, Operations Manuals or Environmental Management Plans. For minor pipelines with few significant environmental issues it is anticipated that this section of the Code may be adopted in its current form.

This section provides guidelines directly relevant to decommissioning activities for the control and management of:

access

soil and ground stability

vegetation

weed control

diseases

earthworks

waste management

water management

protection of land use

prevention of bushfires.

The following sections include:

planning

consultation

product removal and pipe cleaning

removal of pipeline

removal of above ground infrastructure

rehabilitation of pipeline easement

roads, access tracks and hardstand remediation

waste management

easement tenement

monitoring and auditing.

Reference should also be made to AS 2885 Pipelines – Gas and liquid petroleum, in particular AS 2885.3, for specific guidance on abandonment of pipelines.



7.1 PLANNING

The decommissioning program should be supported by a suitable study which addresses any potential effect on the environment and other uses of the easement. The process of risk assessment should be carried out in accordance with AS 2885.1, through the use of the companion document to AS 2885 HB105 Guide to Pipeline Risk Assessment. Each onshore pipeline is different, as each is purpose built for a specific function in a specific location. The method of decommissioning for each section of a pipeline should therefore be based on a case-by-case evaluation.

The following should be considered:

the potential reuse options

age and length of the pipeline

the nature of the environment in which the pipeline is located

any other issues relevant to the particular pipeline.

It is recognised that commercial considerations, such as whether there is any future use for the pipeline, can be a key determining factor in planning a decommissioning strategy.

Early planning for decommissioning is essential in order to determine regulatory requirements for each case. Planning will also involve setting out the strategy, philosophy, goals and objectives for the decommissioning process. Planning aspects essentially comprise four assessment criteria:

technical feasibility

environment

safety

cost.

PLANNING – KEY ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES

Impact on flora & fauna

Impact on soil and water quality

Waste management and disposal

Impact on Landholders and other stakeholder

PLANNING – ENVIRONMENTAL OBJECTIVES

1. To undertake pipeline corridor remediation works in a manner that is consistent with AS 2885

2. To decommission the pipeline corridor in a manner that minimises potential impacts on the environment, land use and third parties

3. Where the pipeline decommissioning exposes the public or environment to high risk, to develop a safety management plan that is documented and implemented for the decommissioning of any pipelines

4. To assess the environmental, safety and social impacts of all options prior to disposal of product, pipe waste and facility components

5. To consider all feasible recycling alternatives when disposing of a facility

6. To ensure that the means of decommissioning should not cause a significant adverse effect on the environment

7. To assess the environmental (including social) aspects of decommissioning options

8. To clarify issues of residual liability before licence relinquishment



PLANNING – ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT


Strategy Option The decommissioning strategy must be identified.

Planning objectives shall be set.

A planning assessment shall be conducted.

Decommissioning procedures shall be developed.

Social/community implications shall be considered when decommissioning.

The Decommissioning Plan shall have an implementation strategy.

Technical Planning shall include a description of the pipeline(s) and associated equipment to be decommissioned, including lengths, diameters and type of construction.

Planning will incorporate technical and engineering aspects of the phase, including re-use and recycling and the impacts associated with cleaning, or removing chemicals from the pipeline.

Planning shall assess the timing of the decommissioning.

Planning shall assess safety considerations associated with capping, removal and disposal of above ground infrastructure.

Planning shall identify critical areas where subsidence of an abandoned pipeline cannot be tolerated (e.g. railway crossing).

Technical consideration shall be given to pipeline structural integrity and structural condition, the state of the easement, and the establishment of the order of dismantling.

Existing Easement Condition

Assessment will be made during planning, on the current condition and status of the pipeline(s) including the extent of burial, trenching and details of any materials used to cover the lines in order to determine potential environmental impacts associated with decommissioning.

Operational and monitoring data and history shall be reviewed.

Environment and Stakeholders

Impacts on the environment and landholders, including exposure of the environment to pipeline related contaminants, shall be assessed in the development of the decommissioning strategy.

Impacts on other environmental aspects, including emissions to the atmosphere, leaching to groundwater, discharges to surface water and effects on the soil, shall be reviewed.

Consumption of natural resources and energy associated with re-use or recycling shall be reviewed.

Impacts on amenities, the activities of communities and on future uses of the environment shall be assessed.



7.2 CONSULTATION

An appropriate level of consultation is required to ensure stakeholders have sufficient information and any concerns have been addressed. Potential impact on amenities, the activities of communities and on future uses of the environment should be considered.

CONSULTATION – KEY ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES

Increased safety hazard resulting from temporary increases in traffic volume

Increased noise and nuisance factor associated with temporary works

Provision of sufficient information for public and landholders

CONSULTATION – ENVIRONMENTAL OBJECTIVES


2. To ensure stakeholders, landholders and regulators have been consulted and key issues addressed

CONSULTATION – ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT


Planning Decommissioning planning shall include consultation with statutory authorities, local community and residents, the landholders and other interested parties.

Consultation with relevant landowner/occupiers and regulatory authorities regarding the utilisation of existing road or tracks and infrastructure.

Consultation with statutory authorities and third party infrastructure operators regarding critical areas where subsidence of pipelines abandoned in situ cannot be tolerated.

Consultation with landholders and local government regarding temporary road closures and traffic impediments.

Decommissioning Impacts on the environment and landholders, including exposure of the environment to pipeline related contaminants.

Impacts on amenities, the activities of communities and on future uses of the land and environmental functions.

Rehabilitation and Monitoring

Following completion of decommissioning, landholders shall be provided with a contact number to register complaints.



7.3 PRODUCT REMOVAL AND PIPE CLEANING

Onsite decommissioning commences with product removal and pipeline cleaning. Hydrocarbon product is purged from the line and the pipe cleaned using the most appropriate method over a series of stages. Likely stages include injecting inert substance such as nitrogen, flushing with water, and the utilisation of foam or brush pigs to clean the pipeline.

PRODUCT REMOVAL AND PIPE CLEANING – KEY ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES

Potential impact on surface and ground water quality

Potential soil contamination

Potential impact on flora and fauna

Release of air pollutants


Temporary disruption to landholders and third parties

PRODUCT REMOVAL AND PIPE CLEANING – ENVIRONMENTAL OBJECTIVES

1. To prevent impact on surface and ground water

2. To prevent soil contamination

3. To minimise impact on flora and fauna

4. To minimise waste and dispose appropriately

5. To minimise disruptions to landholders and third parties

PRODUCT REMOVAL AND PIPE CLEANING – ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT


Planning Site preparation and management requirements shall be implemented in accordance with developed and approved Decommissioning Strategy.

The equipment must be made safe by removing or making safe harmful substances.

Depressurising Hydrocarbon gases shall typically be disposed to fuel gas or flare systems.

As systems become depressurised the pipeline may then be isolated by valving and subsequent blanking.

Venting Where flammable or other harmful materials are to be vented, the point(s) for release should be located in order to preclude any possibility of vapours encroaching on areas where personnel are working or where there is a likelihood of ignition, under suitable meteorological conditions and away from residential and environmentally sensitive areas.

Prolonged or significant venting activities should be undertaken in consultation with the appropriate regulatory agencies (e.g. Pipeline Technical Regulator, Environment Protection Authority).

Draining Prior to equipment being isolated it is essential that facilities are drained as much as possible via fitted drain points.

Adequately sized drain lines should be installed at the lowest points and sized in accordance with operating engineering practices.

All equipment must be cleaned and purged before connections can be cut ready for disconnection and/or removal.

The extent of the cleaning activity depends upon the state of the equipment and the type of contaminants present.



Purging and Flushing Pipe-work can be flushed or purged using steam, water or inert gas. For many applications, water is used as the primary pipe cleaning method.

Pipelines can be cleaned using a process called progressive pigging, where a series of cleaning pigs are pushed through the pipeline with chemical agents and flush water to remove all hydrocarbons.

A project specific Water Source and Disposal Plan shall be developed in consultation with the appropriate regulatory agencies.

Management of waste water shall be in accordance with section 4 Environmental Guidelines – Construction and regulatory requirements.

Water supply and disposal will be undertaken in accordance with regulations and managed in accordance with the procedures developed in the Decommissioning Strategy.

No water will be returned directly to watercourses without appropriate approvals.

Water shall be tested for hydrocarbon and chemical residue prior to disposal.

Where contaminant level exceeds EPA requirements, flushed water shall be disposed of at an approved waste facility.

Discharging water into the environment shall be undertaken in a manner that prevents localised effects, including erosion and sediment transport.


All pipelines which are partially or wholly left in situ should be inspected and thoroughly cleaned internally to ensure that all contaminants are removed.

Consideration should be given to filling the pipeline with cement slurry or other appropriate material to prevent water conduiting or subsidence. Alternatively cathodic protection might be applied in order to prevent the eventual collapse of the pipeline and consequent ground subsidence.

In the event that cathodic protection is maintained, the responsibility for ownership is to remain with the pipeline operator and appropriate records kept.



7.4 REMOVAL OF PIPELINE

As discussed in section 6.2, abandonment of buried pipelines in situ is environmentally preferable to the disturbance associated with the removal of pipeline, which will involve excavation. Buried pipelines should only be removed in the case where damage resulting from the removal to the surrounding environment or disturbance to third party amenity is low.

REMOVAL OF PIPELINE – KEY ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES



Potential soil erosion




REMOVAL OF PIPELINE – ENVIRONMENTAL OBJECTIVES




4. To prevent soil erosion




8. To minimise visual impact of the easement, site locations and access tracks by undertaking appropriate rehabilitation


REMOVAL OF PIPELINE – ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT


Excavation The width of vegetation clearance shall be minimised to the safest practical width.

Cleared vegetation shall be stockpiled for respreading during rehabilitation.

Topsoil shall be stripped and stockpiled for respreading during rehabilitation.

Trench spoil shall be stockpiled separately from vegetation and topsoil.

Removal of Pipe The condition of the pipe shall be assessed and salvaged/dismantled for reuse, recycled, or disposed of as scrap as appropriate (refer to project Waste Management Plan).

Reinstatement Trench spoil shall be replaced as close to soil horizon order as possible and certified clean fill material shall be added to the trench as required.

The easement shall be reinstated to match surrounding contours in a manner that will not cause erosion.

Topsoil and cleared native vegetation shall be respread, monitored and assessed for any further revegetation needs.



7.5 REMOVAL OF ABOVE GROUND INFRASTRUCTURE

The overall objective is to leave the easement as near as practical to pre-existing environmental conditions and decommission the pipeline in a manner that minimises potential impacts to the environment, land use and third parties. All aboveground pipe and supports along the pipeline should be cut-off (at a minimum depth of 750mm below the natural surface or at pipeline depth as determined by AS 2885.3), removed and blinded below the surface. All aboveground signs and markers above the pipeline should be removed. If the cathodic protection system is being abandoned all above ground elements should be removed, and anode and earthing beds are to be disconnected at 600mm below the natural surface level (refer to AS 2885.3 and section 7.3).

REMOVAL OF ABOVEGROUND INFRASTRUCTURE – KEY ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES






Visual amenity

REMOVAL OF ABOVEGROUND INFRASTRUCTURE – ENVIRONMENTAL OBJECTIVES









REMOVAL OF ABOVEGROUND INFRASTRUCTURE – ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT


Well Head Pipework Well manifolds shall be abandoned using methods that will protect groundwater resources.

Wells shall be permanently plugged.

Well pads shall be removed and any hydrocarbon-contaminated soil disposed of in accordance with the project’s Waste Management Plan.

Other Infrastructure Reuse of buildings in good condition shall be considered.

Where buildings are to be demolished this shall be undertaken in accordance with the project’s Waste Management Plan.

The condition of the power plants/generators, compressor station equipment, mainline valves and other ancillary infrastructure that is part of the pipeline designed under AS 2885 shall be assessed and salvaged/dismantled for reuse, recycled, or disposed of as scrap as appropriate (refer to project Waste Management Plan).



7.6 REHABILITATION OF PIPELINE CORRIDOR

The overall objective is to leave the pipeline corridor as near as practical to pre-existing environmental conditions and decommission the pipeline in a manner that minimises potential impacts on the environment, land use and third parties.

REHABILITATION OF PIPELINE CORRIDOR – KEY ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES




Remediation of hydrocarbon contaminated soils



REHABILITATION OF PIPELINE CORRIDOR – ENVIRONMENTAL OBJECTIVES




4. To remediate any soil contamination present

5. To prevent soil erosion and subsidence




9. To minimise visual impact of the pipeline corridor, site locations and access tracks by undertaking appropriate rehabilitation

REHABILITATION OF PIPELINE CORRIDOR – ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT


Earthworks Compaction relief shall be undertaken, as required, by ripping or scarifying soils along the contours.

As necessary, the pipeline corridor shall be re-profiled to original or stable contours, re-establishing surface drainage lines and other land features.

Where topsoil has been removed, it shall be respread or clean topsoil imported where there are insufficient stockpiles.

Erosion and sediment control measures shall be installed as necessary.

Revegetation and Monitoring

Unauthorised access shall be discouraged in order to facilitate natural regeneration of the area.

The pipeline corridor shall be assessed to determine if additional revegetation is required to facilitate natural regeneration.

The pipeline corridor shall be assessed in accordance with 7.10 to ascertain pipeline corridor condition, and repairs undertaken as required e.g. revegetation, subsidence backfill.

Areas of high ecological value may be fenced in order to facilitate regeneration and revegetation.



7.7 ROADS, ACCESS TRACKS AND HARDSTAND REMEDIATION

In most cases, roads and access tracks will be left in place for continued use unless otherwise directed by government authorities or landowners. If required, dirt roads and access tracks should be rehabilitated to existing surrounding conditions or better (refer to construction guidelines for Reinstatement and Rehabilitation section 4.1.6).

ROADS, ACCESS TRACKS AND HARDSTAND REMEDIATION – KEY ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES





ROADS, ACCESS TRACKS AND HARDSTAND REMEDIATION – ENVIRONMENTAL OBJECTIVES



3. To prevent impact no surface and ground water



ROADS, ACCESS TRACKS AND HARDSTAND REMEDIATION – ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT


Planning Ensure landholder and affected stakeholders have been notified of intended works.

Remediation All imported material, signage and infrastructure shall be removed and recycled, where possible, or taken to an approved waste disposal facility.

Compaction relief shall be undertaken, as required, by ripping or scarifying soils along the contours.

As necessary, the pipeline easement shall be re-profiled to original or stable contours, re-establishing surface drainage lines and other land features.

Where topsoil has been removed it shall be respread or clean topsoil imported where there are insufficient stockpiles.

Erosion and sediment control measures shall be installed as necessary.


Unauthorised access shall be discouraged in order to facilitate natural regeneration of the area.

The pipeline corridor shall be assessed to determine if additional revegetation is required to facilitate natural regeneration.

Areas of high ecological value may be fenced in order to facilitate regeneration and revegetation.




Management of wastes should be conducted in accordance with AS 2885 and the APIA Code of Environmental Practice. A project specific Waste Management Plan should be developed and shall adopt the “reduce, reuse and recycle” principle.

Remediation can be defined as the removal, and appropriate disposal, of an unauthorised or accidental release of a contaminant during operations. The primary goals of remediation are to protect public health, protect groundwater stores and to protect sensitive ecological resources.


Protection of soil and water quality


Temporary disruption to landholders

Remediation of hydrocarbon contaminated soils




3. To minimise and manage wastes in accordance with regulatory requirements





Planning Waste materials will be carefully disposed of at approved waste management facilities in accordance with the applicable regulations, standards and industry best practice.

Impacts on the environment and landholders, including exposure of the environment to pipeline related contaminants, shall be reviewed and considered in Waste Management Plan.

Consumption of natural resources and energy associated with re-use or recycling shall be reviewed and considered in Waste Management Plan.

Impacts on amenities, the activities of communities and on future uses of the environment shall be reviewed and considered in the Waste Management Plan.

Contaminated Soil Prior to the decommissioning, a preliminary inventory of existing equipment and hazardous material should be collected. Historical information can be used to ascertain potential sources and types of contaminants. Historical information is also useful for documentation of previous spills or other incidents.

Initial sampling should take place on areas suspected of having the greatest probability of subsurface contamination, in particular former treatment, storage and processing areas. Sampling locations can be determined based on visual inspection and site surveys.

The results of the preliminary investigation shall be used to determine whether significant contamination has occurred. If it has, further assessment may be required in order to define the extent of the contamination and should consist of more extensive testing including: soil testing, soil vapour testing (if applicable), groundwater testing (if applicable), health risk and ecological risk.



Hydrocarbon contaminated soils (e.g. loading bay drain/pig trap contents, oil/fuel spills), should be removed and remediated according to their concentration of contaminants, their leachability and the extent of area affected, in consultation with regulatory agencies and in accordance with ANZECC guidelines, state regulations and policies.

Remediation of contaminated sites shall be in accordance with sections 4 and 5 Environmental Guidelines – Construction and Operations and regulatory requirements.



7.9 EASEMENT TENEMENT

Where a pipeline is being abandoned and no further use of the easement is intended the tenement on the easement should be relinquished.

EASEMENT TENEMENT – KEY ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES


EASEMENT TENEMENT – ENVIRONMENTAL OBJECTIVES


2. To decommission the pipeline corridor in a manner that minimises potential impacts on the environment, land use, landholders and third parties

EASEMENT TENEMENT – ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT


Relinquishment Prior to the easement tenement being relinquished, consideration must be made of any abandonment conditions applying to the pipeline, including a review of the following documents to ensure that all condition are met:

pipeline licence conditions

legislative requirements

ministerial requirements

government negotiations or contracts

Australian Standards

landowner agreements.

Easement relinquishment should also include obtaining landowner releases for the completed abandonment.

Records When the process of tenement relinquishment is undertaken, it is likely that records (i.e. maps and drawings) identifying and locating the abandoned pipelines will need to be prepared and submitted to the appropriate authorities to allow future identification of infrastructure left in situ.

All pipelines which are partially or wholly left in situ should be accurately mapped and recorded as required by AS 2885.3.



7.10 MONITORING & AUDITING

Pipeline operators are responsible for decommissioned pipelines however once a pipeline tenement has been relinquished an operator is normally relinquished of liability and responsibility after a specified period of time. A review should be undertaken of the following documents in order to determine the extent and period of liability and responsibility for suspended, abandoned in place and removed pipelines:

pipeline licence conditions

legislative requirements

ministerial requirements

regulatory commitments

landowner agreements.

MONITORING AND AUDITING – KEY ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES


Potential soil erosion


Potential impact on landholders and third parties

MONITORING AND AUDITING – ENVIRONMENTAL OBJECTIVES



3. To prevent soil erosion and subsidence



MONITORING AND AUDITING – ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT


Suspension Decommissioned pipelines require continued monitoring and maintenance of cathodic protection, signs and markers, and in some cases maintenance of the easement or right-of-way.

Monitoring shall be undertaken periodically to ensure prompt remediation of erosion or third party damage to infrastructure.

Abandonment in Place Monitoring or auditing of abandoned pipelines shall be undertaken for a specified period following their abandonment or the relinquishment of the tenement.

Monitoring or auditing of an abandoned pipeline shall focus on the success of remediation and revegetation activities.

The easement shall be monitored to check for evidence of soil subsidence and erosion, or ground water contamination.

Removal Monitoring or auditing of easements where the pipeline has been removed shall be undertaken for a specified period following their abandonment or the relinquishment of the tenement.

Monitoring or auditing of removed pipeline easements shall focus on the success of remediation and revegetation activities.

The easement shall be monitored to check for evidence of soil subsidence and erosion.



GLOSSARY OF TERMS AND ABBREVIATIONS

Acid sulphate soil Soils which form when sulphate rich soils or sediment are exposed to oxygen. Drainage or other disturbance which causes oxidation results in the release of highly acidic leachates from the soil.

AGA Australian Gas Association

Anthropological Pertaining to human societies

ANZECC Australian and New Zealand Environment and Conservation Council

APPEA Australian Petroleum Production and Exploration Association

ARPEL Regional Association of Oil and Natural Gas Companies of Latin America and the Caribbean

Aspect Element of an organisation's activities, products or services that can interact with the environment.

AS 2885 Australian Standard AS 2885 Pipelines – Gas and liquid petroleum

Bell hole An enlarged area of trench.

Blue Book Landcom’s Soils and Construction – Managing Urban Stormwater Handbook

Borrow pit Surface excavation for the extraction of materials such as sand or clay.

Bulldust Highly dispersive soil which becomes powdery (talc like) when disturbed causing large movement of sediment and soil particles due to wind and water erosion.

Bund An earth, rock or concrete wall constructed to prevent the inflow or outflow of liquids.

Cathodic protection system Application of an electrical current to the pipeline exterior to prevent the electrochemical process of corrosion occurring.

Clear-and-grade The preparation of the right of way for vehicular movement, trenching and other construction activities, involving clearing vegetation and other obstacles from the right of way, grading topsoil to the edge of the right of way, and creating a safe working surface (and slope) for construction.

Dieback A soil borne plant pathogen (Phytophthora cinnamomi), commonly referred to as cinnamon fungus. The disease affects the roots of native Australian plants, in particular forest tree species, leading to their eventual decline.

DTI Department of Trade and Industry (United Kingdom)

Easement A right held by the proponent to make use of the land for the installation and operation of a pipeline. Also referred to as a right of way.

EIA Environmental Impact Assessment

EMP Environmental Management Plan

EMS Environmental Management System

EPA Environment Protection Authority

EPBC Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999

Erosion control berms Compacted earthen banks strategically placed to divert erosive and/or silt contaminated water away from vulnerable areas such as the pipeline corridor or water resources.

ESD Ecologically Sustainable Development. Defined by the Australian National Strategy for ESD (1992) as “development that improves the total quality of life, both now and in the future, in a way that maintains the ecological processes on which life depends”.

Flow line A pipeline used to relay raw gas, condensate or oil from a well to a processing plant.

Gabions Small rocks enclosed within wire mesh, used to stabilise slopes.

Geofabric or geotextile Fabric for placing on ground surfaces to minimise erosion.



Grading Levelling of the right of way using graders, backhoes and bulldozers.

Hazard The potential of something to cause injury or harm

Horizontal directional drilling

One method by which a pipeline trench is drilled at a shallow angle under a crossing (e.g. a stream bed, major road, railway) through which the pipe is threaded.

Hydrocarbon A class of chemical compounds consisting primarily of the elements hydrogen and carbon. Petroleum hydrocarbons are complex mixtures of hydrocarbons ranging from light gas to heavy oil compounds. Some common petroleum hydrocarbons include methane, ethane, propane, butane, naphtha, condensate, crude oil and asphaltenes.

Hydrostatic testing A pipeline testing process used to test welds and pipeline integrity in high pressure hydrocarbon pipelines. The process involves filling the newly constructed pipeline with pressurised water enabling the detection of leaks.

Hydrostatic testing (or hydrotesting)

A means to check the pipeline for strength and leaks prior to operation in which the pipeline is filled with water and the pressure increased and monitored under controlled conditions.

Impact Result of an organisation’s aspect actually causing an environmental harm

Landholder A general term used to refer to the legal owner or manager of a parcel of land. It may be a private landowner, Government or private utility, or a Government Agency responsible for management of a particular parcel of Crown land (e.g. National Parks or Forestry areas).

Line list A document for construction contractors which itemises the management procedures to be undertaken and which gives site specific information for field operators.

Line management Each individual employee and contractor operating within an agreed management structure or ‘chain of command’.

Mainline valves Valves located in a pipeline at intervals along its length.

MCMPR Ministerial Council on Mineral and Petroleum Resources

Padding Fine grained soil placed in the trench to protect the pipeline coating from rock damage.

Pig A tool which is inserted into a pipeline and propelled along by hydrotest water or the gas flow, to clean and inspect the pipe internally.

Problematic Soils A soil by which its own properties increases risk of environmental harm and where additional management measures required. Such soils include, dispersive soils, acid sulphate soils, contaminated soils, soils affected by dryland salinity, sand or serpentine soils.

Purging Removing all air from the pipeline, using gas.

Radiography Non-destructive examination of pipeline welds using X-ray to detect defects.

Rehabilitation Rehabilitation is the process of returning an area to its pre-disturbance construction state including reinstatement, followed by regeneration, revegetation or restoration dependent upon the defined scope or works.

Definition for regeneration & revegetation is detailed in section 4.8

Reinstatement Reinstatement is the process of bulk earth works and structural replacement of pre-existing conditions of a site (i.e. soil surface topography, watercourses, culverts fences and gates and other landscape/d features.

Restoration Restoration is the replacement of structural habitat complexity, ecosystem processes, services and function from a de novo or degraded site to that of a pre-determined or analogue state.

Riparian Relating to the bank or shore of a natural watercourse, such as a river or stream.

Ripping Raking or shallow ploughing to relieve compaction and aerate soils.

Rip-rap Natural material such as rock or timber used to protect susceptible areas, such as reinstated creek beds and banks, or soils at water discharge receiving areas, from erosion caused by water flows.



Risk The probability that harm or injury may occur to persons or the environment

Scraper stations An above ground facility used to launch and receive pigs which are inserted into the pipeline system.

Side-boom tractors Construction equipment, consisting of a tractor with a boom crane, designed to permit lowering of the pipe string into the trench.

Skids Timber blocks, similar to railway sleepers, used to keep the pipeline off the ground.

Stringing Laying the pipe adjacent to the pipeline trench.

Third party Those parties not directly associated with the pipeline such as landholders, government, other commercial interests (e.g. power utilities, mining companies) and the general public.

Trench blocks (trench breakers)

Impermeable barriers placed in the trench during pipelaying to prevent water erosion along the pipeline in the backfilled trench. They are generally installed adjacent to watercourses and in sloping terrain and are designed to allow water to seep up and out of the backfilled trench, where it is diverted away from the pipeline construction area by erosion control berms.

Trench plug Short section of trench left unexcavated to allow passage of stock or wildlife across the trench.

Trench spoil Soil from the pipeline trench.

Trench water Water (usually shallow groundwater) in the pipeline trench.

Waters/Watercourses Sources or conveyancing of water including drainage channels, streams, creeks, rivers, dams and other water bodies. Waters can also include trench and pipeline discharge waters.



FURTHER READING

American Water Works Association (AWWA) Standard for Water Quality Standard

ARPEL (Regional Association of Oil & Natural Gas Companies in Latin America & the Caribbean) (1992) Decommissioning and Surface Land Reclamation at Petroleum Production and Refining Facilities. Environmental Guideline No.6.

ARPEL (1992) Environmental Management of the Design, Construction, Operation and Maintenance of Hydrocarbon Pipelines. Environmental Guideline No.11.

Australian Gas Association (AGA) Gas Transmission Pipelines: Development and Economics; Research Paper No. 8.

Australian Gas Association (1996) Environmental Code of Practice (Code AG 750).

Australian Gas Association (1997) Horizontal Directional Drilling – A Pipeline Construction Tool. Australian Gas Association Information Paper.

Australian and New Zealand Environment and Conservation Council (ANZECC) (1992) Australian Water Quality Guidelines for Fresh and Marine Waters.

Australian Minerals and Energy Foundation (AMEF) (1996) Environmental Management in the Australian Minerals and Energy Industries. Principles and Practices. UNSW Press.

Australian Petroleum Production and Exploration Association (APPEA) (1996) Code of Environmental Practice.

Australian Pipeline Industry Association and Victorian Farmers Federation (2004) Pipeline Easement Guidelines.

Australian Pipeline Industry Association (APIA) (1997) Business Plan, October 1997.

Australian Pipeline Industry Association (APIA), Code of Environmental Practice for Offshore Pipelines.

Australian Weeds Committee (2008) Noxious Weeds List for Australian States and Territories

Canadian Association of Petroleum Producers (2002) Guidelines for Pipeline Abandonment Applications in Alberta. (Draft)

Commonwealth of Australia (1998). The National Greenhouse Strategy: Strategic Framework for Advancing Australia’s Greenhouse Response.

Environment Institute of Australia and New Zealand (2008), Bibliography of Environmental Best Practice Documents.

Institute of Engineers (1997), Erosion and Sediment Control Engineering Guidelines, Institute of Engineers QLD.

Landcom (2004) Soils and Construction – Managing Urban Stormwater Handbook, Volume 1, 4th Ed. (the Blue Book)

Ministerial Council on Mineral and Petroleum Resources (2005) Principles for Engagement with Communities and Stakeholders.

NSW Department of Urban Affairs and Planning (1996) Is an EIS Required? Best Practice Guidelines for Part 5 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979.

NSW Roads and Traffic Authority (1993) Road Design Guide Series.



Standards Australia (1997) AS 1055 Acoustics – Description and measurement of Environmental Noise. (AS 1055:1997)

Standards Australia (2004) AS 1940 Storage and Handling of Flammable and Combustible Liquids. (AS 1940:2004)

Standards Australia (1997) AS 2885.1 Pipelines – Gas and Liquid Petroleum – Design and Construction (AS 2885.1:1997)

Standards Australia (2002) AS 2885.2 Pipelines – Gas and Liquid Petroleum – Welding (AS 2885.2:2002)

Standards Australia (2001) AS 2885.3 Pipelines – Gas and Liquid Petroleum – Operation and Maintenance (AS 2885.3:2001)

Standards Australia (2003) AS 2885.4 Pipelines – Gas and Liquid Petroleum – Offshore (AS 2885.4:2003)

Standards Australia (2002) AS 2885.5 Pipelines – Gas and Liquid Petroleum – Field Pressure Testing (AS 2885.5:2002)

Standards Australia (2001) AS 1579 – Arc Welded Steel pipes and fittings for water and waste water

Standards Australia (2001) AS 1281 Cement mortar lining of steel pipes and fittings

Standards Australia (2000) AS 2129 Flanges for Valves and pipe fittings

Standards Australia (2004) AS 4087- Metal Flanges and AS/NZS 2280 Ductile Iron Pipe and Fittings.

Standards Australia (2004) AS/NZS 4360 Risk Management. (AS/NZS 4360:2004)

Standards Australia (2004) AS/NZS ISO 14001: Environmental Management Systems – Requirements with guidance for use (AS/NZS ISO 14001:2004).

Standards Australia (2004) AS/NZS ISO 14004 Environmental Management Systems – General guidelines on principles, systems and supporting techniques (AS/NZS ISO 14004:20064).

Standards Australia (2003) AS/NZS ISO 19011 Guidelines for Quality and/or Environmental Management Systems Auditing (AS/NZS ISO 19011:2003).

Victorian Environment Protection Authority (EPA) (1996) Best Practice Environmental Management Series – Environmental Guidelines for Major Construction Sites

Victorian Water Industry Association Inc & Victorian Farmers Federation (2008), Pipeline Easement Guidelines.

Water Service Association of Australia, Environmental Management Guidelines for the Australian Water Industry.



APPENDICES



APPENDIX 1: ABOUT APIA

The Australian Pipeline Industry Association Ltd (APIA) is the peak national body representing the interests of Australia’s transmission pipeline sector. It has a diverse membership base with approximately 400 members including contractors, owners, operators, advisers, engineering companies and suppliers of pipeline products and services. APIA’s current membership is predominantly involved in the high-pressure transmission of gas, however, the Association welcomes membership of companies and individuals involved in the transmission via pipelines of other products including potable and recycled water, LNG and CO2, petroleum and petrochemical liquids, minerals and sand slurry, sewage and wastewater removal, powerline and cable conduits.

APIA has been based in Canberra since January 1998 and has developed a strong presence and profile. The Association has a full-time team comprising a Chief Executive, Business Manager, Policy Adviser, Membership Officer and Functions/Administration Officer plus part-time Research and Technical Policy Managers and an Accounts Administrator.

The APIA web page at www.apia.net.au is a vital tool for members, providing access to specialist industry information. APIA manages and promotes an Annual Convention and Exhibition as well as a comprehensive program of seminars, luncheons and dinners. APIA also provides information and promotes the interests of the pipeline industry through public presentations, newspaper feature articles, editorial comment in The Pipeliner and other publications and media releases as well as a regular Chief Executive Brief to members.

An important role for APIA has been its industry research programs and the Association has strong working relationships with leading institutions. As part of this research focus, APIA has been a leading proponent in the development of the industry-accepted technical standard, AS2885.

APIA’s Mission

To provide services for our members and to ensure the broader community, including government, industry and community groups, understand the benefits that a dynamic, market-driven Australian pipeline industry can deliver to the national economy and to regional development.

APIA’s Key Objectives

1. Promote high-pressure pipelines as a safe and reliable mode of transport and improve general awareness of the benefits of pipelines.

2. Represent the pipeline industry to government, the public and other organisations and enhance links with other industry bodies and environmental bodies.

3. Build and enhance relationships across the range of member groups within APIA and facilitate the contribution of all sectors to issues which impact on the industry’s common interests.

4. Provide members with information, services and networking opportunities. These networking opportunities are a platform for members to demonstrate and market their expertise, ideas and innovations, products, services and knowledge.

5. Improve the regulatory environment in which pipeline projects are developed, constructed and operated in Australia.

6. Develop and support policies, standards and practices in the pipeline industry, including cultural and community heritage, land access, social impact, safety and environment.

7. Facilitate research relevant to the pipeline industry.

8. Monitor emerging trends in the industry and develop responses as appropriate.

9. Promote training and encourage knowledge retention within the pipeline industry.



A streamlined Standing Committee structure enables APIA to progress many of its core priorities.

APPENDIX 2: APIA ENVIRONMENT POLICY

APIA recognises the pipeline industry’s responsibility to the community regarding environmental protection, and will promote the adoption of all practicable measures to ensure that pipeline planning and design, construction, operation and decommissioning is conducted in an efficient and environmentally responsible manner.

In support of this commitment APIA will promote through example, as appropriate, and encourage APIA member companies to:

Embrace a proactive approach to environmental management in the knowledge that environmental impacts can be prevented or minimised

Comply with relevant legislation, regulations, standards and guidelines for the protection of the environment and, in their absence, adopt the best practicable means available to prevent or minimise adverse impacts

Actively work with government agencies and statutory bodies in drafting legislation, policies, standards and procedures for environmental protection

Develop and maintain management systems for self-regulation which identify, document, control and monitor environmental risks and monitor compliance with environmental requirements with the intention of continual improvement

Incorporate environmental management into the planning, acquisition, design, construction, operation, decommissioning and divesture of all pipeline related businesses and facilities

Implement appropriate strategies that aim to minimise Greenhouse gas emissions, consistent with the spirit of international Greenhouse gas agreements to which Australia is a signatory

Implement appropriate waste management strategies based on the principles of reduce, reuse, recycle and appropriate disposal as the final option

Ensure that all employees and contractors are aware of their environmental responsibilities and have opportunities to be trained in the necessary skills

Communicate openly with stakeholders regarding environmental matters related to the industry’s activities.

Cheryl Cartwright

APIA Chief Executive

October 2008



APPENDIX 3: LEGISLATION

The following is a list of environmental legislation relevant to the construction, operation and decommissioning of pipelines in Australia. This list of Acts is provided only as a guide, each having associated Regulations and Policies that require review and use. Due to changing legislation, varying requirements and the often complex nature of pipeline approvals, APIA advises its members to seek clarification from appropriate experts and relevant Commonwealth, State or Territory regulatory authorities.

COMMONWEALTH

Aboriginal & Torres Straight Islander Heritage Protection Act 1984

Australian Dangerous Goods Code

Australian Heritage Council Act 2003

Environment Protection & Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999

Industrial Chemicals (Notification and Assessment) Act 1989

Native Title Act 1993

National Greenhouse Energy Reporting Act 2008

Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas Management Act 1989

AUSTRALIAN CAPITAL TERRITORY

Environment Protection Act 1997

Heritage Act 2004

Nature Conservation Act 1980

Pest Plants and Animals Act 2005

Planning and Development Act 2007

NEW SOUTH WALES

Aboriginal Land Rights Act 1983

Catchment Management Authorities Act 2003

Contaminated Land Management Act 1997

Crown Lands Act 1989

Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979

Environmentally Hazardous Chemicals Act 1985

Explosives Act 2003

Forestry Act 1916

Forestry and National Park Estate Act 1998

Heritage Act 1977

Land Acquisition (Just Terms Compensation) Act 1991

Local Government Act 1993

National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974

Native Title (New South Wales) Act 1994

Native Vegetation Act 2003

Noxious Weeds Act 1993

Noxious Weeds Amendment Act 2005

Ozone Protection Act 1989

Pesticides Act 1999

Pipelines Act 1967

Plant Diseases Act 1924

Protection of the Environment Operations Act 1997

Roads Act 1993

Road and Rail Transport (Dangerous Goods) Act 1997

Rural Fires Act 1997

Rural Lands Protection Act 1998

Soil Conservation Act 1938

Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995

Waste Avoidance and Resource Recovery Act 2001

Water Act 1912

Wilderness Act 1987



NORTHERN TERRITORY

Aboriginal Land Act 2004

Agricultural and Vetenary Chemicals (Northern Territory) Act 2005

Bushfires Act 2004


Dangerous Goods (Road and Rail Transport) Act 2005

Energy Pipelines Act 2003

Environmental Assessment Act 1994

Heritage Conservation Act 2000

Lands Acquisition Act 2004

Litter Act 1999

Northern Territory Aboriginal Sacred Sites Act 2004

Ozone Protection Act 1996

Pastoral Land Act 2004

Planning Act 2003

Soil Conservation and Land Utilisation Act 2001

Stock Diseases Act 2004

Territory Parks and Wildlife Conservation Act 2005

Waste Management and Pollution Control Act 2003

Water Act 2004

Weeds Management Act 2001

QUEENSLAND

Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Act 2003

Aboriginal Lands Act 1991

Agricultural Chemicals Distribution Control Act 1966

Agricultural and Veterinary Chemicals (Queensland) Act 1994

Chemical Usage (Agricultural and Veterinary) Control Act 1988

Dangerous Goods Safety Management Act 2001

Environmental Protection Act 1994

Environment Protection (Air) Policy 1997

Environment Protection (Noise) Policy 1997

Environment Protection (Waste Management) Policy 2000

Environment Protection (Water) Policy 1997

Fire and Rescue Authority Act 1990

Forestry Act 1959

Integrated Planning Act 1997

Land Protection (Pest and Stock Route Management) Act 2002

Land and Resources Tribunal Act 1999

Land Act 1994

Native Title (Queensland) Act 1993


Petroleum Act 1923

Petroleum and Gas (Production and Safety) Act 2004

Petroleum (Submerged Lands) Act 1982

Plant Protection Act 1989

Queensland Heritage Act 1992

Soil Conservation Act 1986

State Development and Public Works Organisation Act 1971

Torres Strait Islander Cultural Heritage Act 2003

Torres Strait Islander Land Act 1991

Vegetation Management Act 1999

Water Act 2000



SOUTH AUSTRALIA

Aboriginal Heritage Act 1988

Agricultural and Vetinary Products (Control of Use) Act 2002

Dangerous Substances Act 1979

Dog Fence Act 1946


Environment Protection (Air Quality) Policy 1994

Environment Protection (Industrial Noise) Policy 1994

Environment Protection (Machine Noise) Policy 1994

Environment Protection (Waste Management) Policy 1994

Environment Protection (Water Quality) Policy 2003

Fire and Emergency Services Act 2005

Heritage Places Act 1993

National Parks & Wildlife Act 1972

Native Vegetation Act 1991

Natural Resources Management Act 2004

Pastoral Land Management and Conservation Act 1989

Petroleum Act 2000

Water Resources Act 1997

TASMANIA

Aboriginal Lands Act 1995

Aboriginal Relics Act 1975

Agricultural and Veterinary Chemicals (Control of Use) Act 1995


Dangerous Goods Act 1998

Environmental Management and Pollution Control Act 1994

Environment Protection Policy (Air Quality) 2004

Environment Protection Policy (Noise) 2003 (Draft)

Fire Service Act 1979

Forestry Act 1920

Gas Pipelines Act 2000

Historic Cultural Heritage Act 1995

Land Use Planning and Approvals Act 1993

Litter Act 2007

Major Infrastructure Development Approvals Act 1999

National Parks and Reserves Management Act 2002

Native Title (Tasmania) Act 1994


Threatened Species Protection Act 1995

Vermin Control Act 2000

Water Management Act 1999

Weed Management Act 1999



VICTORIA


Catchment and Land Protection Act 1994

Country Fire Authority Act 1958

Dangerous Goods Act 1985

Environment Effects Act 1978


State Environment Protection Policy (Air Quality Management) 1999

State Environment Protection Policy (Ambient Air Quality) 2001

State Environment Protection Policy (Prevention and Management of Contaminated Land) 2002

State Environment Protection Policy (Groundwaters of Victoria) 1997

State Environment Protection Policy (Control of Noise from Commerce, Industry and Trade) 1989

State Environment Protection Policy (Waters of Victoria) 1988

Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988

Heritage Act 1995

Pipelines Act 2005

Water Act 1989

Wildlife Act 1975

WESTERN AUSTRALIA


Agricultural and Veterinary Chemicals (Western Australia) Act 1995

Animal Welfare Act 2002

Bush Fires Act 1954

Contaminated Sites Act 2003

Dangerous Goods Safety Act 2004


Heritage of Western Australia Act 1990

Native Title (State Provisions) Act 1999

Petroleum and Geothermal Energy Resources Act 1967

Petroleum Pipelines Act 1969

Reserves (National Parks Conservation Parks Nature Reserves and Other Reserves) Act 2004

Soil and Land Conservation Act 1945

Waterways Conservation Act 1976

Wildlife Conservation Act 1950



APPENDIX 4: RELEVANT CODES & STANDARDS

The following is a list of standards relevant to the construction, operation and decommissioning of pipelines in Australia. This list is provided as a guide. Due to changing legislation, varying requirements and the often complex nature of pipeline approvals, APIA advises its members to seek clarification from appropriate experts and relevant Commonwealth, State or Territory regulatory authorities.

For a comprehensive list of additional environmental codes and standards relevant to the construction, operation and decommissioning of pipelines in Australia, APIA recommends the Environment Institute of Australia and New Zealand’s Environmental Best Practice Bibliography (2008).

GAS STANDARDS

AS 2885.0 Pipelines—Gas and liquid petroleum—General requirements AS 2885.1 Pipelines—Gas and liquid petroleum—Design and construction AS 2885.2 Pipelines—Gas and liquid petroleum—Welding AS 2885.3 Pipelines—Gas and liquid petroleum—Operation and maintenance AS 2885.4 Pipelines–Gas and liquid petroleum—Offshore submarine pipeline systems AS/NZS 2885.5 Pipelines—Gas and liquid petroleum—Field pressure testing

WATER STANDARDS

AS 1554 Structural Steel Welding - Welding of Steel Structures AS 1726 Geotechnical Site Investigations AS 2566.1 Buried Flexible Pipelines - Structural Design AS 2566.2 Buried Flexible Pipelines - Installation AS 2865 Safe working in a confined space AS 3725 Loads on Buried Concrete Pipes AS 4087 Metallic Flanges for Waterworks Purposes AS 5667.1 Water Quality – Sampling.



APPENDIX 5: PIPELINE INSPECTION CHECKLIST

An indicative pipeline checklist is attached.


Revision 2 - March 2009 121

Pipeline Inspection Checklist

Location

Issue

Com

plia

nce

or

Gen

eral

RO

W

Pipe

line

Oth

er s

ites

Action / Comments

Access

Has access been only via designated tracks?

Have there been any complaints concerning access by landholders?

Are there any reports or evidence of unauthorized third party access to the pipeline corridor or facility sites?

Soil and Ground Stability

Are there any sites of significant erosion, land subsidence or compaction?

Are control banks of appropriate height, spacing and material?

Are there any areas of trenchline subsidence?

Are control banks diverting run-off to stable vegetated land?

Vegetation Management

Has native vegetation clearance along the pipeline corridor been in compliance with approvals and with flagging or marking in the field?

Is vegetation showing signs of water stress?

Is vegetation showing signs of disease (e.g. Dieback)?

Have there been reports of disturbance to protected flora or fauna?

Is there any evidence of feral animals?



Location

Issue

Com

plia

nce

or

Gen

eral

RO

W

Pipe

line

Oth

er s

ites

Action / Comments

Weed Control

Are any weed infested areas located on the pipeline corridor? (Note the location)

Review the success of any current weed eradication programs on site

Have all vehicles used on the pipeline corridor been ‘washed down’ to remove weed seeds? (declared weed areas only)

Earthworks

Is there adequate signage and fencing to ensure public safety?

Is access being maintained across the pipeline corridor for vehicles and livestock?

Land Use

Has there been any disturbance to landowner infrastructure, such as fences, gates, pumps etc?

Are crossings of railways and roads maintained so as to ensure the safety of the public in accordance with regulatory requirements?

Bushfire Prevention

Are local fire Authority regulations being followed?

Is appropriate access available across / along the pipeline corridor for fire management?

Air and Noise Emissions

Have there been any complaints regarding dust or noise levels?



Location

Issue

Com

plia

nce

or

Gen

eral

RO

W

Pipe

line

Oth

er s

ites

Action / Comments

Heritage Issues

Is there any visible disturbance to protected sites?

Are there any reports of personnel accessing prohibited areas?

Water Management

Is there evidence of disturbance to drainage patterns (e.g. drainage shadow)?

Are stream crossing banks stable?

Are sections of the pipeline exposed?

Aboveground Flowlines

Are flowline supports in place?

Is the flowline free from external corrosion?

Is the flowline free from excessive stress?

Facilities Management

Are all facilities locked and secure?

Waste Management

Are drainage sumps regularly checked and drained?

Are there any oil spills present?

Have previous spills been cleaned up adequately?

Are materials such as scrap metal, wood, rags etc. recycled where possible?

Is debris from pigging operations properly collected, contained and treated?



Location

Issue

Com

plia

nce

or

Gen

eral

RO

W

Pipe

line

Oth

er s

ites

Action / Comments

Asbestos Removal

Has all asbestos been properly collected, contained and treated?

Chemical Storage

Is appropriate chemical storage provided?

Are all chemical drums properly disposed of at an appropriately licensed facility?

Are all storage sites kept clean?



APPENDIX 6: FAUNA MANAGEMENT PRO-FORMA



APPENDIX 7: FUTURE DIRECTIONS CONSIDERATIONS

The following table is a list of items for further consideration by the pipeline industry in regard to the management of environmental aspects of our activities and operations. These items were identified in the latest review of the Code and are under further investigation and clarification from industry experts and regulatory authorities.

Terminology

Consideration of updating environmental terminology, for example in Section 4 replace the word ‘issue’ with ‘impact’.

Sustainability

Consideration of sustainability, Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme and National Greenhouse Emission Reporting Scheme on pipeline construction and operational phases of facilities. Identify aspects, impacts and control measures.

CO2 and other transmission pipelines

Consideration of aspects and reconcile for adequacy against APIA CoEP

EIANZ

Consider possible affiliation with or endorsement by the EIANZ when undertaking review of CoEP and particularly control measures for ‘Best Practice’ not just industry best practice

Further review of monitoring aspects of the Code.

Heritage Marking

Consideration of distinguishing between cultural and natural heritage items, with cultural items to be marked with a blue and white flag/tape and natural items to be marked with yellow.

Tidal and Marine Environments.

Tidal and marine environments in coastal plain areas to be considered as they present additional influences to environmental management.

Contaminated land and UXO sites management

Problematic Soils Management.

Consider separate item or references to ‘problematic soils’ including PASS, ASS, Contaminated lands, Dispersive soils, Dryland Salinity, Sand dune or desert environments. Soils and soil management on Pipelines or other linear infrastructure are a major aspect and ipact upon the environment.

Water Management & Discharge – after review, consider developing a new section in or associated with Purging and Hydrotesting and Commissioning in Section 5. Operations.