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STEINTHAL ESTATE S24G FEIR: APPENDIX O (BROILER FARMING) JUNE 2013

Boland Environmental Consultants CC.

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APPENDIX O:

BROILER FARMING

OPERATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL

MANAGEMENT PLAN

(FINAL)

STEINTHAL ESTATE,

TULBAGH

JUNE 2013

Prepared for:

Steinthal URC, Tulbagh

Prepared by:

Schalk van der Merwe, Boland Enviro CC, Worcester.



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TABLE OF CONTENT

SECTION 1: INTRODUCTION

1.1. INTRODUCTION

1.2. BACKGROUND

1.3. KEY OEMP OBJECTIVES

1.4. PARALLEL ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLANS

1.5. ASSUMPTIONS AND LIMITATIONS

SECTION 2: RECEIVING ENVIRONMENT

2.1. LOCATION

2.2. OWNERSHIP AND MANAGEMENT

2.3. ZONING

2.4. STEINTHAL LAND USES

2.5. STEINTHAL INFRASTRUCTURE

2.5.1. Fresh water

2.5.2. Wastewater (ETP)

2.5.3. Composting facility

2.5.4. Site access

2.6. ADJACENT LAND USES

2.7. THE RECEIVING ENVIRONMENT

2.7.1. Climate and rainfall

2.7.2. Topography

2.7.3. Soils

2.7.4. Geology

2.7.5. Groundwater

2.7.6. Natural watercourses

2.7.7. Tierkloof stream

2.7.8. Freshwater storage dams

2.7.9. Vegetation

2.7.10. Habitat and Fauna

2.7.11. Archeological and historical

SECTION 3: OVERVIEW OF ACTIVITIES

3.1. INTRODUCTION

3.2. PRODUCTION SCALE/ EXTENT

3.3. INFRASTRUCTURE

3.4. PRODUCTION CYCLE OVERVIEW

3.5. PROCESS INPUTS

3.5.1. Day-old chicks

3.5.2. Bedding

3.5.3. Feed

3.5.4. Fresh water

3.5.5. Electricity

3.5.6. Vaccines

3.5.7. Chemicals

3.5.8. Poisons

3.5.9. Plastic bags and crates

3.6. PROCESS OUTPUTS

3.6.1. Grown broilers

3.6.2. Mortalities



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3.6.3. Manure

3.6.4. Bedding and feathers

3.6.5. General waste

3.6.6. Hazardous waste

3.6.7. Waste water

3.7. ON-SITE TRAFFIC FLOWS

3.8. LABOR

SECTION 4: BASELINE INFORMATION

SECTION 5: APPLICABLE LEGISLATION

5.1. INTRODUCTION

5.2. NEMA (Act No. 107 of 1998)

5.2.1. NEMA Basic Assessment Regulations, R386 of 2006


5.3. WATER USE 5.3.1. National Water Act (Act 36 of 1998)

5.4. WASTE 5.4.1. NEM: WASTE ACT (Act 59 of 2008)

5.4.2. National Waste Management Strategy (2011)

5.4.3. NEM:WA Regulations (2009)

5.4.4. Poultry Regulations, R153 of 2006

5.5. HUMANE TREATMENT OF BIRDS

5.5.1. Animal Protection Act (Act 71 of 1962)

5.5.2. Meat Safety Act (Act 40 of 2000)


5.6. ANIMAL HEALTH AND BIO-SECURITY

5.6.1. Animal Diseases Act (Act 35 of 1984)

5.6.2. Animal Health Act (Act 7 of 2002)

5.7. OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY

5.7.1. Occupational Health and Safety Act (Act 85 of 1993)

5.7.2. OHSA Draft Safety Regulations (R 1034 of 2005).

5.7.3. OHSA General Administrative Regulations (R 929 of 2003)

5.8. SUMMARY OF KEY LEGAL PROVISIONS

SECTION 6: MANAGEMENT PROVISIONS

6.1. INTRODUCTION

6.2. ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

6.2.1. Steinthal Estate Board

6.2.2. Operator/ Poultry Manager

6.3. ACTIVITIES PRIOR TO COMISSIONING

6.4. CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITIES

6.5. OBJECTIVE 1: ONGOING LEGAL COMPLIANCE

6.6. SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT

6.6.1. OBJECTIVE 2: Mortalities

6.6.2. OBJECTIVE 3: Compostable waste

6.6.3. OBJECTIVE 4: General solid waste

6.7. OBJECTIVE 5: WATER USE AND WASTEWATER GENERATION

6.8. OBJECTIVE 6: BIO-SECURITY

6. 9. OBJECTIVE 7: HUMANE TREATMENT OF BIRDS



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6.10. OBJECTIVE 8: NUISANCE RISK MANAGEMENT

6.11. OBJECTIVE 9: STAFF TRAINING

6.12. OBJECTIVE 10: OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY

6.13. COMPLAINTS REGISTER

6.14. INCIDENTS REGISTER

6.15. EMERGENCIES

6.15.1. Provisions for dealing with emergencies

6.16. NOTIFIABLE INCIDENTS

6.17. REMEDIATION RESPONSE STRATEGY

6.17.1. Remedial Response Plans

SECTION 7. AUDITING AND REPORTING

7.1. INTRODUCTION

7.2. AUDITING

7.2.1. Terms of Reference

7.2.2. Initial audit

7.3. REPORTING

SECTION 8. UPDATING OF OEMP

8.1. INTRODUCTION

8.2. INITIAL UPDATES

8.3. UPDATES IN RESPONSE TO AUDITS

LIST OF SOURCES

LIST OF FIGURES

Figure 2.1: Steinthal Estate in local context

Figure 2.2. Key land uses on Steinthal

Figure 2.3. Broiler houses 1-6, abattoir, compost site in relation to neighbors.

Figure 2.4. Broiler houses in relation to Tierkloof stream and storage dams.

Figure 3.1. Location of broiler house sites and structures 1-7

Figure 3.2. Existing and proposed wastewater pipelines and existing drains/ tanks

Figure 4.1. Overview of WWMP and Composting OEMP monitoring points.

LIST OF TABLES

Table 2.1. GPS locations of relevant infrastructure

Table 3.1. Overview of broiler farming structures:

Table 5.1. Summary of key applicable legal provisions

Table 6.1. Initial requirements:

Table 6.2. Construction phase measures

Table 6.3. Notifiable incidents in terms of applicable legislation



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LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS

BP Boland Poultry

CWDM: EH Cape Winelands District Municipality: Environmental Health

DEA&DP Department of Environmental Affairs and Development Planning (WCP)

DAFF Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (national)

DA:VPH Department of Agriculture: Veterinary Public Health

DEA Department of Environmental Affairs (National)

DWA Department of Water Affairs

EAP Environmental Assessment Practitioner

ETP Effluent Treatment Plant

GA General Authorization (in terms of the NWA)

HACCP Hazard Analyses and Critical Control Point

HSR Health & Safety Representative

MSDS Material Safety Data Sheet

NEMA National Environmental Management Act

NEM:WA National Environmental Management: Waste Act

NWA National Water Act

NWMS National Waste Management Strategy

OEMP Operational Environmental Management Plan

OHS Occupational Health and Safety

OHSA Occupational Health and Safety Act

PEO Provincial Executive Officer

RRP Remedial Response Plan

RPS Remediation Response Strategy

SANS South African National Standard

S24G Application in terms of NEMA Section 24

SDF Spatial Development Framework

SEB Steinthal Estate Board

WCP Western Cape Province

WLM Witzenberg Local Municipality

WML Waste Management License

WWMP Wastewater Management Plan



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SECTION 1: INTRODUCTION

1.1. INTRODUCTION

This Operational Environmental Management Plan (OEMP) forms part of Steinthal Estate’s

S24G application to the Western Cape Department of Environmental Affairs and

Development Planning (DEA&DP).

The application entails rectification for, and resuming of broiler farming activities and

operation of a low-throughput abattoir. A parallel application is simultaneously made for a

Waste Management License (WML) in terms of the National Environmental Management:

Waste Act to operate a composting facility which would process some of the abattoir

(feathers) and broiler (manure, bedding, feathers) waste.

The broiler farming component of the S24G application would entail the resuming of broiler

farming activities, making use of 7 existing buildings/ footprints, at a total stocking rate not

exceeding 18 000 birds at any given time. Day old chicks would be bought in from

accredited external suppliers, and raised to around 42 days of age prior to slaughter at the

Estate’s upgraded low-throughput abattoir (other S24G component). Manure and bedding

would be composted at the Estate’s proposed licensed composting facility. Due to a high

environmental risk potential, mortalities would be disposed of off-site, at an appropriately

licensed facility.

A Draft OEMP was prepared in December 2012. The Draft OEMP has been updated to

address comments from DEA&DP: Pollution Management and other parties, including with

regard to -

• the safe and responsible handling of solid waste;

• nuisance risk management;

• bio-security measures;

• the humane treatment of birds;

• occupational health and safety of workers;

• potential impacts on neighbors;

• a public complaints register; and

• responding to notifiable incidents and emergencies.

In addition, the Draft OEMP format has been changed to reflect a more compact, uniform

format for all 4 parallel OEMPs (see Section 1.4 below), and to avoid unnecessary repetition

amongst the various OEMPs.

1.2. BACKGROUND

Commercial broiler rearing activities on Steinthal started in 2001. Until January 2003,

broilers were raised in a single 230 m3 building complex with the necessary zoning in place

(Consent Use on Agriculture II for raising of broilers). Overall numbers were low, providing

for a slaughter rate of <50 broilers a day at the Estate’s abattoir.

From February 2003, 4 additional structures were taken into commission, and operations at

the abattoir increased to <1000/ d. One consisted of a disused stable building (91 m2), and

the other three (76 m2 each) of new buildings erected from re-used material (old school



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buildings). Operations were carried out without Consent Use zoning permission, and without

approved building plans. Operations were directly managed by Steinthal until September

2006. During this period operations were carried out nuisance free. Mortalities were

however disposed of on an ad hoc manner, variously by burning or feeding rendered matter

to pigs. However, disposal was carried out neatly and efficiently, and no complaints or

authority notices were received. An initial application was made to DEA&DP in 2006 in terms

of NEMA S24G to regularize broiler farming activities.

In September 2006 Steinthal’s farm manager resigned, and from October 2006 the Estate’s

agricultural component and abattoir were leased out to a third party, Boland Poultry (BP).

Under BP management two additional broiler houses were erected (250 m2 each) early in

2007. In addition, BP also made use of additional pre-existing structures on an ad hoc basis.

Stocking of up to 25 000 broilers at one time in under-equipped facilities lead to massive

mortalities during the wet winter of 2007. Waste from uncontrolled slaughtering at the

abattoir (routinely above permitted totals) and broiler farming mortalities, combined with

inadequate waste disposal practices, lead to numerous complaints from neighbors, and the

issuing of a number of notices from the Cape Winelands District Municipality: Environmental

Health (CWDM: EH) and the Department of Agriculture (Veterinary Services).

Solid waste disposal practices during 2007 included uncontrolled composting, feeding raw

material to pigs, burning of feathers, and uncovered dumping in a drainage ditch. These

disposal practices impacted directly on adjacent Schoonderzicht property (smoke, odours,

health risk), and users of the MRC 5 Steinthal road (odours, health risk). In addition,

unlined composting activities and the dumping of dead broilers and slaughter waste posed

risks to groundwater and surface water resources, including the Tierkloof stream on the

Estate.

Inconsiderate traffic management at the abattoir and upper broiler houses caused

obstructions on the Schoonderzicht servitude road, leading to conflict with residential and

(then) tourism activities on Schoonderzicht.

A new S24G application process was started in 2008 to take into account additional

activities and operations at the abattoir. Application was made for the use of 7 existing

buildings at a stocking rate not exceeding 18 000 broilers at any given time. Until

September 2008 operations continued under the provisions of a Provisional OEMP. Broiler

farming activities were totally suspended in September 2008. Steinthal cancelled its lease

agreement with BP in December 2008.

A Draft Environmental Impact Report (EIR) was submitted in April 2010. Comments related

mainly to wastewater management and the need to establish baseline information and

sample-based monitoring programmes for the Tierkloof stream on Steinthal and Steinthal’s

potentially affected soils (irrigating with treated wastewater, composting activities). In

addition, the need to follow a separate Basic EIA process for proposed composting activities

was identified.

Supplementary studies were carried out during the course of 2011 and 2012, and a parallel

Basic EIA was undertaken with regard to the WML application. A joint public participation

process in terms of the 2010 NEMA Regulations was started in December 2012. As indicated

above, the Draft OEMP has been updated in response to process comments (this

document).



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1.3. OEMP OBJECTIVES

This OEMP has been drafted taking into account the Western Cape Provincial Guideline for

Environmental Management Plans (2005). The objectives of this OEMP are to provide:

� A description of the receiving environment;

� A description of the relevant activities, included associated waste streams;

� Key baseline information with regard to potentially affected receptors;

� An overview of key applicable legislation and policy;

� A management framework to address key risks;

� For recording and monitoring programmes;

� For the opening of a Complaints Register;

� For the opening of an Incidents Register;

� For a Remedial Response Strategy;

� For roles and responsibilities in implementing the OEMP;

� For annual auditing against KPIs; and

� For updating of the OEMP.

1.4. PARALLEL MANAGEMENT PLANS

This OEMP should be read in conjunction with 3 other OEMPs which have been drafted in

support of the S24G and WML applications:

• The Steinthal Abattoir OEMP;

• The Steinthal Waste Water Management Plan (WWMP);

• The Steinthal Composting OEMP.

The Abattoir OEMP overlaps with the Broiler OEMP with regard to shared facilities (bio-

security showers), the temporary storage (freezing) of broiler mortalities, the humane

packing and transport of broilers for slaughter, and use of the Schoonderzicht access road.

The WWMP covers aspects relating to fresh water use, waste water generation and

treatment, and irrigation with treated effluent on the Estate’s fields. Overlaps are mainly in

terms of water demand management and pre-treatment wastewater management. The

WWMP includes baseline information relating to Steinthal’s soils, water uses associated with

the Tierkloof stream, and water quality of the Tierkloof stream, Steinthal storage dams and

the Effluent Treatment Plant (ETP) system. The WWMP makes provision for various water

quality, sludge and soil monitoring programmes, as well as remedial responses to notifiable

Incidents.

The Composting OEMP covers the composting of plucked feathers from the abattoir.

Overlaps are in terms of the screening of solid waste, the transport of compostable broiler

waste to the composting site, and dealing with contaminated waste returned from the

composting site. The Composing OEMP also includes baseline information and management/

monitoring provisions with regard to Steinthal soils. Provisions with regard to the Tierkloof

are exactly the same as in the WWTP; those for soils focus on site leachate risks and the

application of compost,



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1.5. ASSUMPTIONS AND LIMITATIONS

Assumptions

• Broiler farming activities would only resume once i). S24G approval has been obtained;

ii). additional rezoning has been approved; iii). and building plans have been approved.

• Activities would only commence once supporting infrastructure has been put in place.

This includes upgrades to the Estate’s ETP system (as per WWMP), and construction of

the composting facility once a WML has been obtained.

• A maximal throughput of up to 163 800 broilers per year has been assumed for all input

and output related calculations in this report.

• The Cape Winelands District Municipality: Environmental Health would continue to

monitor the quality of treated fresh water on the Estate, and no additional monitoring

programme is required with regard to treated fresh water quality.

• Process information and various process throughput estimates are based on interviews

with the farm manager and other staff in 2008. It is assumed that much of the

information would remain applicable to resumed activities.

Limitations

• It is unclear at this stage whether operations would be run by Steinthal directly, or by a

third party. This OEMP has therefore been drafted with this uncertainty in mind. Note

however that the Steinthal Estate Board (SEB) as registered land owner would ultimately

remain responsible for implementation of this OEMP.

• Due to poor historic record keeping, quantific baseline data based on actual

measurements and documentation could not be obtained with regard to a number of

inputs and outputs. These gaps have largely been filled by “best estimates” which were

obtained from the past operations manager. Process baseline values may need to be

adjusted once a record of actual measurements has been established.

• For reasons discussed under Section 2.7.5. below, an up-slope down-slope borehole-

based groundwater monitoring programme would not be feasible.



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SECTION 2: RECEIVING ENVIRONMENT

2.1. LOCATION

Steinthal Estate is located in the eastern Tulbagh Valley, directly to the east of the town of

Tulbagh in the Witzenberg Local Municipality (WLM) of the Cape Winelands District

Municipality (CWDM). The Estate is ~860 ha in extent. The ridgeline of the Witzenberg

(mountains) constitutes the eastern perimeter of the Estate. Schoonderzicht Farm does not

form part of the Estate. Road access to Steinthal is via the tarred Minor Road 5 (MR or

“Steinthal rd”) from Tulbagh, and to Schoonderzicht via a servitude road off Steinthal road

(Figure 2.1).

Figure 2.1: Steinthal Estate in local context (broiler farming sites in red)

More than half of Steinthal consists of natural veld on mountainous terrain. The broiler

houses are located in the built-up mid-section of the Estate.

Table 2.1. GPS locations of relevant infrastructure

Structure Latitude Longitude

Broiler house 1 33º 16 ’ 52.81” S 19º 10’ 50.68” E





STEINTHAL ESTATE TULBAGH URBAN EDGE STEINTHAL ROAD SCHOONDERZICHT TIERKLOOF STREAM



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2.2. OWNERSHIP AND MANAGEMENT

Steinthal Estate belongs to the Uniting Reformed Church in Southern Africa (URC in SA).

The Estate is registered in the name of one of its organs, the Steinthal Estate Board (SEB).

The SEB is also responsible for the management of the Estate. It is not clear at this stage

whether the SEB will directly manage operations, or lease out to a third party.

2.3. ZONING

An existing Consent Use: Agriculture I (broiler farming) is currently in place for the original

broiler house (230 m²). Broiler houses 1-6 are located on land zoned Agriculture I, but with

no Consent Use in place. A rezoning application is currently pending to acquire Consent Use

zoning rights with regard to broiler houses 1-6.

With the exception of the abattoir (Industrial II – noxious use), the remainder of Steinthal is

zoned Agriculture I and Institutional II. A Consent Use application is currently pending with

regard to the other 6 existing broiler houses.

2.4. STEINTHAL LAND USES

Steinthal has been used for farming activities since around the first half of the 18th century.

Institutional uses date from the early 19th century, when Witzenberg 182 was acquired by

the Rhenish Missionary Society (RMS), and from the 1830’s used to settle freed slaves on

Church and communally run agricultural land (Witzenberg Draft SDF, 2012). During the

Apartheid era Steinthal was one of the few non-White owned commercial farms in the

Tulbagh area.

Current institutional use (core use) is comprised of a Children’s Home, a School, and a Skills

Development Centre. These are managed separately from the farming component. The

farming component and Estate lands (including Institutional grounds) are managed by the

Steinthal Estate Board (SEB). From its inception in the 1830’s, agricultural activities have

been one of the key means of financially supporting institutional activities on the Estate. The

broiler farming and abattoir are envisaged as a funding mechanism for existing activities.

Agricultural

Farming activities have been dormant since 2008, pending outcome of the S24G application.

Traditional activities included dairy cattle, the cultivation of fodder crops, small-scale

commercial broiler farming, and the operation of a small poultry abattoir.

Resumed operations would include broiler farming (~163 800 broilers per year), operation

of a low-throughput poultry abattoir (up to 1 700 broilers/ day), a dairy herd and milking

parlor, and fodder cropping activities. At a later stage, vegetables, orchards and vineyards

may also be investigated for establishment.

Institutional

Approximately 400 learners, the majority of which have special education needs, attend the

Steinthal School. Around 150 learners who have been committed by courts reside in 3



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dormitories at the Children’s Home. A further 200 learners reside in two school hostels on

the Property. Approximately 40 people are currently employed at the school and an

additional 40 at the Children’s Home. One dormitory is used to accommodate approximately

40 learners with disabilities and another dormitory is used as a camping site. A Skills

Development Centre is rented to the Department of Education as a School of Skills.

Figure 2.2. Key land uses on Steinthal

Residential

Three staff households associated with the School and Children’s Home reside on the Estate.

In addition, 12 households associated with farming activities on the Estate reside on the

Estate (area shaded yellow in Figure 2.2.).

2.5. STEINTHAL INFRASTRUCTURE

Broiler farming activities would be supported by the following infrastructure on Steinthal:

2.5.1. Fresh water

Fresh water would be obtained from the Estate’s central fresh water treatment plant.

Steinthal currently has a fresh water use allocation of 360 000 m3/a. Water for potable

purposes is exclusively drawn from the uppermost storage dam on the Estate, and treated

to the SANS Drinking Water Standard (SANS 241). Water quality inspections are currently

carried out by the CWDM: EH.

BROILERS/ ABATTOIR/ DAIRY

PROPOSED COMPOSTING

INSTITUTIONAL/ ADMIN

STAFF RESIDENTIAL

EFFLUENT TREATMENT PLANT

IRRIGATION AREAS



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2.5.2. Wastewater (ETP)

Wastewater would be treated at the Estate’s existing ETP. Steinthal currently has a General

Authorization (GA) in terms of the National Water Act (NWA) to treat up to 11 813 m3/a,

and to dispose treated effluent as irrigation at a rate of up to 53 m3/d. The ETP system is

currently sludged-up. Proposed upgrades include de-sludging, deepening of Ponds 1 and 2,

and fitment of an additional jet aerator.

2.5.3. Composting facility

Steinthal is currently applying for a WML to establish and operate a composting facility on

the Estate. The facility would accept broiler manure and bedding for composting, but no

other broiler waste. The facility would be designed according to a site engineering plan

which makes structural provision for a G-lined surface, on-site leachate/ run-off collection

and containment, and run-on cut-off trenches.

2.5.4. Site Access

Steinthal Estate is accessible from 2 points off the MRC 5, namely via the main entrance to

the Estate, and via the Schoonderzicht servitude road. Only movement associated with the

three upper broiler houses (3-5) would need to make use of the Schoonderzicht road. All

other activities could be accessed via Steinthal’s main entrance and existing internal road

network.

2.6. ADJACENT LAND USES

The Tulbagh valley is an important agricultural area. Orchard crops, viticulture, and mixed

farming, including the cultivation of small grains and fodder crops and dairy cattle are key

activities. Commercial-scale broiler farming and abattoir activities are currently limited in

the Tulbagh area, but large industrial scale broiler farming facilities and abattoir are located

in the Romansrivier/ Witrivier area south of Wolseley ~23 km to the south of Steinthal

(Witzenberg Draft SDF, 2012). The area around Steinthal is mainly used for mixed farming.

Owners typically reside on their properties. Heritage/ scenic tourism is a key emerging land

use in the immediate Tulbagh area. Other land uses on Steinthal Estate provide the

immediate land use context, and are comprised of existing farming activities, institutional,

and residential uses. The 2012 Draft Witzenberg Spatial Development Framework identifies

Tulbagh as agricultural/ tourism development node. Provision is made for the eastward

expansion of the Tulbagh urban edge (10-15 year).

Adjacent properties

A total number of seven landowners are situated adjacent to Steinthal. All the relevant

properties are currently primarily zoned Agriculture I. Uses include primary agriculture and

rural residential.

Key potentially affected receptors are mainly associated with properties located to the

north-east (Witzenberg, Bella Vista) and south-east (Schoonderzicht) – see Figure 2.3

above. Residential receptors on Bella Vista and Schoonderzicht are in closest proximity to

the upper broiler houses, with the Horing residence on Schoonderzicht at ~300 m the

nearest, and other houses on Bella Vista, Schoonderzicht and Witzenberg >400 m.



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Figure 2.3. Broiler houses 1-6, abattoir and compost site in relation to neighbors.

The relevant properties all make use of the MRC5 (Steinthal road) to gain primary access to

their properties. A servitude road across Steinthal currently provides sole access to

Schoonderzicht and its residents. The road passes directly to the south of broiler houses 3-5

(Figure 2.3.).

A portion of Kruys Vallei 187 located inside the Draft Tulbagh urban edge (Figure 2.1),

currently zoned Agriculture is currently proposed for residential development. The relevant

portion is located ~ 1 km north-west of the lower broiler houses, and largely screened by an

intervening ridgeline.

2.7. BIOPHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT

Steinthal is located in the eastern aspect of the Tulbagh valley. The Witzenberg mountains

crest line demarcates the eastern boundary of the Estate. The fertile Tulbagh valley has

been extensively used for the cultivation of cereal, viticulture and fruit crops for a number of

centuries, and is consequentially largely a disturbed, man-made landscape. Natural

vegetation and associated habitat are essentially limited to the upper, less accessible slopes

of the Winterhoek and Witzenberg mountains.

2.7.1. Climate and rainfall

The climate is typically Mediterranean, characterized by hot, dry summers and relatively

mild, wet winters. Daytime summer (November until March) maximum temperatures are

typically in the 30 ºC’s, but may on some days (mainly January and February) reach highs

STEINTHAL ESTATE STEINTHAL ROAD SERVITUDE ROAD



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of 40 ºC. Winter maximum daytime temperatures can reach 22 ºC with minimums at or just

above freezing point when snow covers adjacent mountains. South easterly winds dominate

in summer (Agri-Logix, 2010).

Information provided by the South African Weather Service indicates that records compiled

by the Tulbagh weather station stretch back to 1878. The driest year on record was 1971

(276 mm), and the wettest 1879 (748 mm). The record indicates that three of the ten

wettest years over the past three decades have occurred since 2006 (viz. 2006-8), with

2008 the wettest year for the 30 year period (624 mm). The lowest rainfall year for the 30

year period 1981 – 2011 occurred in 1997 (311 mm), with 2003-2005 three of the six driest

years since 1981. Only limited official evaporation records are available for the Western

Cape, not for Tulbagh, and only up to 1987 for the nearest location, viz. Worcester (De

Jager – pers. comm).

2.7.2. Topography

The Witzenberg mountains crest line demarcates the eastern boundary of the Estate. The

approximate height of the Estate is about 1 100 m above sea level and the terrain gradually

slopes downwards from east to west. The broiler houses are located on relatively level

terrain.

2.7.3. Geology

Steinthal is mostly underlain by the Porterville Formation of the Malmesbury group shales,

as evidenced by scattered outcroppings on the Estate (AgriLogix, 2010). The Malmesbury

group is the oldest geological formation in the Witzenberg region and comprises mainly

phyllitic shales and fine toned medium-grained greywacke, and dates back to around 550-

540 million years ago. This formation is mostly confined to the Tulbagh area, where it

occupies the base of the valley (Witzenberg, 2012: Map 6).

The Worcester Fault (which runs from Nuwekloof Pass, southwards to Robertson and further

east) affects the Tulbagh area (Witzenberg, 2012). Tulbagh was hit by a 6.5 (Richter)

magnitude earth quake in 1969, the largest ever to be recorded in South Africa. The risk is

unpredictable and applies equally to all land uses in the Tulbagh valley and surrounds, and

is therefore not specifically addressed in this OEMP.

2.7.4. Soils

The 2012 Witzenberg Draft SDF (Map 9) indicates that the arable portions of the Tulbagh

Valley, including Steinthal, consists of poorly developed, shallow soils, in situ, underlain by

parent material (Witzenberg, 2012). The abattoir would be based on an existing site in the

historically built-up mid-section of the Estate. No specific information is available for the

broiler sites, but he findings of the Soils and Wastewater Irrigation Study (2012) indicate

that irrigated soils lower down on the Estate (near the urban edge) are sandy loams and

suitable for irrigation agriculture, while the soils in the mid-section (near broiler house 1) of

the Estate are more typically clays, with elevated levels of manganese and phosphorus

(EnviroScientific, 2012). The soils in the built-up mid-section are not considered of

significant agricultural potential.

2.7.5. Groundwater

The Upper Berg and Breede areas around Tulbagh, Ceres and Wolseley are associated with

relatively small inter-granular aquifers with moderately to high yields, reaching between 0.5



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-5 l/s (litres per second). Ground water quality in the Tulbagh and Wolseley valleys is

generally classified as brackish (79-300 mS/m) (Witzenberg, 2012, Map 15). Consequently,

farms located in the Steinthal area typically either make use of mountain runoff or municipal

scheme water instead of boreholes for potable uses.

A single active borehole is located on Steinthal, ~210 m north-west (down slope) of broiler

house 5. The borehole has a registered allocation of 20 000 m3/a. However, the hole is not

fitted with a pump, and no water has been drawn from it for approximately 2 decades.

During a DWA site visit in February 2013 it was confirmed that the single borehole would

not suffice to implement an upstream-downstream borehole-based groundwater monitoring

programme on Steinthal (see Section 2 of the WWMP for more details).

2.7.6. Natural watercourses, wetlands and seeps

Steinthal is located within the Berg River Catchment Management Area (G10E). Only one

significant natural watercourse, the Tierkloof stream, is located on Steinthal. Flow is mainly

associated with the winter rainfall period and after rainfall events. No wetland areas or

seeps have been identified on the Property (Buntman – pers. comm).

Figure 2.4. Broiler houses in relation to Tierkloof stream and storage dams.

2.7.7. Tierkloof stream

The Tierkloof stream is a small, non-perennial tributary of the Klein Berg River (Figure 2.4).

Virtually the entire course of the main stream (~9.20 km) is located on Steinthal. The

stream joins up with the Klein Berg River inside the Tulbagh urban edge. The final ~1.8 km

is inside the urban edge. No weirs or dams, etc have been constructed on the stream. The

TIERKLOOF AND TRIBUTARIES

FRESH WATER STORAGE DAMS

BROILER HOUSES

COMPOSTING



17

stream is traversed by the MR 5 Steinthal road in two places. The relevant sections pass

through cement culverts underneath the road.

A system of off-stream dams stores water from the stream on Steinthal. An additional dam

is located on Schoonderzicht. Only Steinthal currently draws water from the Tierkloof

stream. Abstraction takes place where the Tierkloof reaches the lower foot slopes of the

Witzenberg, well above any existing and proposed farming and institutional activities.

Two existing broiler houses on the lower site are located <70 m of the Tierkloof. The site

however drains towards an intervening irrigation storage dam (N1). An internal tar road on

the Estate separate the lower site from the relevant dam. The road is lined with cement

stormwater culverts.

Tributaries are located on Schoonderzicht, Kruys Vallei and Sagtevlei. Associated farming

and residential activities on these properties located either upslope from waste water

generating activities on Steinthal, or within the Tierkloof’s catchment, but on the other bank

of the stream relative to Steinthal.

2.7.8. Freshwater storage dams

No natural dams or lakes are located on Steinthal. 9 Manmade dams are located on the

Estate. With the exception of the uppermost storage dam (Figure 2.4.), all the dams store

only irrigation water. Water is primarily drawn from the Tierkloof. The 9 dams are

interconnected, and provide for a registered use of 340 000 m3/a (see Section 5 of WWMP).

The Klipfontein (irrigation storage) dam is located directly to the north-west of the abattoir

site.

2.7.9. Vegetation

Natural vegetation on Steinthal and surrounding farms is essentially limited to steeper

terrain upslope of the relevant activities, and consists of Mountain Fynbos on edaphic,

sandstone and shale derived soils. Remnant patches of historically disturbed and degraded

Renosterveld occur on clayey patches associated with shale outcroppings at mid-elevation.

According to Mucina & Rutherford (2006), the vegetation type on the relevant portion of

Steinthal is classified as Breede Shale Renosterveld. Mucina & Rutherford lists the

vegetation type as Vulnerable, but it is no longer listed as Vulnerable in the 2011 National

List of Threatened Ecosystems (G 34809, GRN 1002).

2.7.10. Habitat and Fauna

The SANBI Witzbenberg Critical Biodiversity Areas Fine Scale Map indicate that the middle

portion of Steinthal Estate consists mainly of NNR (“No Natural Area Remaining”), but with

some ONA (“Other Natural Areas”), mainly associated with ephemeral drainage lines

(www.sanbi.org/fsp/witzenberg/CBA.asp).

The Tierkloof stream, may provide habitat to small mammalian carnivores such as

mongooses. Opportunistic passerine scavengers such as pied crows and medium-sized

raptors such as buzzards (Buteo spp.) are also common in the region. Due to proximity to

the urban edge, occasional stray dogs and feral cats may also occur. Norwegian rats and

mice have been known to occur on Steinthal.



18

2.7.11. Archeological and historical

No known archeological or paleontological sites are located on Steinthal. Permanent

settlement of the Tulbagh Valley dates to the period 1700-1740. Historical houses in

Tulbagh, and picturesque orchards against the scenic backdrop of the Winterhoek and

Witzenberge has made the Tulbagh valley into a key provincial tourist destination. Tulbagh

town currently has the highest concentration of listed heritage structures in South Africa (38

for a town of ~6 500).

The only national monument located outside of Tulbagh is on Steinthal, namely the Rhenish

Missionary Church (1834). The listing is associated with the erection and use of the building

as church to emancipated slaves on the Estate. The Church is currently used as an

interpretation centre by the Steinthal school, but receives virtually no tourists (Dreyer –

pers. comm). The Church is located within the Institutional/ administrative cluster of

Steinthal, ~400 m south-west of the abattoir).



19

SECTION 3: OVERVIEW OF ACTIVITIES

3.1. INTRODUCTION

This section provides an overview of the following:

• The scale and extent of activities;

• Associated infrastructure;

• A typical production cycle;

• Process inputs;

• Process outputs, including waste and wastewater;

• Associated traffic movements; and

• Labour requirements.

3.2. PRODUCTION SCALE/ EXTENT

Activities would be confined to 7 pre-existing structures on 3 sites on the Estate (Figure

3.1.).

Figure 3.1. Location of broiler house sites and structures 1-7

Batches of ~6000 chicks would be bought in from external growers at appropriate intervals

to achieve continuous stocking within the operation of three sets of 6000 broilers (total of

~18 000 at any given time), each set of a different age. This would ensure staggering of

STEINTAL BOUNDARY

PUBLIC ROAD

SERVITUDE ROAD

INTERNAL TARRED

INTERNAL GRAVEL

TIERKLOOF

SCHOONDERZICHT



20

production within the available structures. Production cycles are 42 days long. This

translates into approximately 9.1 production cycles per year, amounting to a theoretical

maximal throughput of approximately 163 800 individual birds per year. Broilers would be

exclusively slaughtered at the proposed upgraded abattoir on the Estate.

Broiler farming operations would be carried out 365 days a year, with skeleton staff

performing essential duties over weekends and on public holidays.

3.3. INFRASTRUCTURE

Information with regard to the seven relevant structures is provided in Table 3.1. below.

Table 3.1. Overview of broiler farming structures:

STRUCTURE TYPE SIZE STATUS CURRENT USE

1 (Lower site) New

construction

(2003)

76 m2 Rezoning

application

pending.

Approval of

building

plans

pending

Disused since 2008.

Storage rooms attached to

structures 5-6 and structure 7

used for ad hoc storing of farm

equipment (plastic crates, bags,

etc).

2 (Lower site) 91 m2

3 (Upper site) 76 m2

4 (Upper site 76 m2

5 (Upper site) New

construction

(2007)

250 m2

6 (Lower site) 250 m2

7

(Central site)

Converted

pre-existing

building

230 m2 Zoned for

broiler

farming use

(2000).

The three houses on each of the upper and lower sites could between them accommodate

>6000 broilers (> 12 000 total). Structure 7 could only accommodate 3 700 broilers. The

remaining 2300 birds would be distributed between the other 6 structures, taking into

account available space at any given time.

Consent Use zoning still needs to be obtained for structures 1-6 (pending S24G approval),

and building plans for these structures still need to be approved (pending rezoning). No

activities may commence prior to these approvals.

The buildings have been disused since 2008, and would require thorough inspection and

maintenance prior to operations starting up again. This would include inspections of the

structures, access control measures, as well as of electrical and water/ wastewater

connections. Measures should then be taken to damage repairs and otherwise ensure that

the buildings conform to approved plans.

Broiler houses at the upper site are exposed to traffic along the Schoonderzicht servitude

road to the south, and houses on Bella Vista to the north. The buildings should be neatly

painted in a neutral color (e.g. white), and indigenous shrubs and trees should be planted to

provide adequate visual screening.

Broiler houses 1 and 4-7 are currently connected to the Estate’s wastewater system (Figure

3.2.). Houses 2 and 6 currently drain into a cement stormwater culvert adjacent to an

internal tarred road on the Estate. Broiler houses 2 and 6 would need to be connected to the



21

central wastewater system prior to stocking with any broilers. A new line (blue in Figure

3.2.) would be required to link the houses to the ETP system. Due to site gradient, gravity

fed reticulation to primary ETP would not be feasible. An accredited service provider should

advise on construction once S24G approval has been obtained. Construction should conform

to any requirements made by the Witzenberg authorities (building plans).

Figure 3.2. Existing and proposed wastewater pipelines and existing drains/ tanks

3.4. PRODUCTION CYCLE OVERVIEW

Day-old chicks would be bought in from accredited hatcheries a set of ~6000 at a time. An

entire set would initially be placed in a nursery area, fitted with infrared spot lamps and

heaters – any of structures 5, 6 or structure 7. At approximately 14 days chicks are

distributed to the remaining relevant structures. Only chicks from structure 7 are moved to

other sites.

Typical inputs until slaughter would consist of broiler bedding (wooden shavings), formula

feed, fresh water, electricity (temperature control), vaccines and medicines. In addition to

inputs and output volumes, the health of birds would need to be monitored and recorded on

an ongoing basis. Surface manure and mortalities would be removed on a daily basis.

Manure would be deposited at the proposed composting site, and mortalities taken to the

abattoir for temporary freezing and weekly safe off-site disposal.

At approximately 42 days the broilers would be ready for slaughter. Typical average

slaughter weight depends on a number of factors, and may range between 1.5 and 2.3 kg.

2.3 kg represents an industry standard for broilers at around 42 days.

EXISTING PIPELINES

PROPOSED PIPELINES

SEPTIC TANKS/ DRAINS



22

Batches of up to 1000 broilers per day would be rounded up before dawn (to minimize heat

stress), packed into suitable crates, and transported via Steinthal’s internal road network

(1,2,6,7) or a short length of the Schoonderzicht servitude road (3-5) in suitable vehicles to

the abattoir and presented for slaughter. If for any reason birds could not be slaughtered on

any given day, the birds would be returned to the broiler houses. In order not to create a

bio-security risk, broilers bought in from external growers for the abattoir would be returned

to their farms of origin.

Once a broiler house has been completely vacated, it would be thoroughly cleaned (“deep

cleaning”). Solid material is manually removed with shovels, the floors are swept, and

finally hosed down with a high-pressure hose after disinfectant soap has been administered.

Structures 1-7 are all fitted with individual high pressure hose connections. Workers would

be issued with protective clothing/ gear to undertake deep cleaning operations, and would

be required to take disinfectant showers after cleaning for the purposes of bio-security.

Broiler manure and bedding from deep-cleaning would be transported to the proposed

composting site via the Estate’s internal road network and the Schoonderzicht servitude

road. In order to prevent spillage during transport, material would be transported in mesh-

weave bags on vehicles with enclosed loading beds. In order to ensure waste is not left

unprocessed at the composting site for longer than 48 hours, deep cleaning would typically

be carried out on Mondays – Thursdays. This would also enable workers at the composting

site to timeously screen out broiler mortalities, and redirect such waste to the abattoir for

freezing and safe disposal.

Cleaned structures would be left vacant for 8 to 14 days prior to restocking with the next

set. Immediately prior to restocking, the inside of the cages would be sprayed with a broad-

spectrum disinfectant product.

3.5. PROCESS INPUTS

3.5.1. Chicks

Approximately 163 800 day-old chicks per year would be bought in from accredited

hatcheries, in batches of ~6000. The chicks would be pre-inoculated against Newcastle

disease and IBV (infectious bronchitis).

3.5.2. Bedding

Approximately 830 m³ of wooden shavings would be required per year. The shavings are

commonly sold as a by-product of carpentry and woodworking manufacturing. Packaging

varies according to supplier, but pre-packaged 0.5 m³ mesh-weave plastic bags are not

uncommon. Storage rooms are attached to structures 5 and 6 would be used for storing

shavings and empty bags.

3.5.3. Feed

Approximately 622.44 t pelletized feed would be needed per year. Broilers would be

exclusively fed on pelletized feed provided by an external commercial feed manufacturer,

such as Epol Feeds in Worcester. Two formula-types would typically be used. Starter feed

would be fed to chicks up to 18 days of age, and Grower feed until slaughter. Feed would be

manually poured into stationary plastic feeders by workers on a daily basis. One feeder is

provided for every 100 broilers.



23

Feed would be transported to the Estate by 18 or 32 ton feed trucks, as is typical in the

feeds industry. Feed will be deposited mechanically from the trucks into the silos. In order

to prevent Vitamin E degradation, silos will not be filled to capacity, but restocked at

approximately 2 week intervals. 2-3 Feed deliveries per month would be required. Trips may

potentially be split between the broiler rearing operation and other farming operations (e.g.

dairy cattle).

4 x metal broiler feed silos (9 ton capacity) were historically located on the lower (x2) and

upper (x2) sites. The silos were removed in 2008, and new silos would need to be installed.

Use should be made of existing concrete footings.

3.5.4. Water

Extrapolations from historic operations indicate that approximately 713 m3 treated fresh

water would be required per year for drinking and cleaning purposes. Water would be

obtained from the Estate’s central fresh water reticulation network via existing connections

to each of the 7 houses. The Estate’s treated fresh water is drawn from the Tierkloof

stream, well above human activities, and treated at the Estate’s freshwater treatment plant

prior to reticulation. Water is treated to SANS 241 Drinking water: Class II standard

(minimum). The CWDM: EH currently monitors water quality on a quarterly basis.

Drinking water would supplied by gravitation feed from 200 liter storage tanks located on

the roof of each structure. The water would made available to the broilers by means of

suspended automated plastic dispensers fitted with weight-pressure valves. 6-8 x 0.25 liter

(capacity) dispensers would be required for every 100 mature broilers.

Use of cleaning water (estimated 63 m3/a) would be mainly associated with the washing of

broiler houses at the end of production cycles. High-pressure connections are located

outside each broiler house. In addition, existing taps located outside each of the relevant

structures would be used on a daily basis by workers to wash their hands and boots as well

as equipment.

3.5.5. Electricity

Electricity use would be mainly associated with the use of infrared spotlights and electric

heaters in nurseries, and should therefore be minimal. Based on historical records, the

operation would require >5 000 kWh/ month (averaged over a year period). Actual use

would be greatest over the winter months.

3.5.6. Vaccines

Typical vaccination programmes at Steinthal were historically comprised of:

• Newcastle disease and IBV on days 10 and 21. Vaccine was applied dissolved in water

by means of a manually operated spray atomizer. 2 x 5000 dosage vials (5 ml capacity

at 50% active ingredient/ volume) of live vaccine per month was typically required for a

stocking rate of 18 000;

• Gumboro disease at 12 days. The vaccine was administered diluted in the drinking

water. 1 x 5000 dosage vial (5 ml capacity at 50% active ingredient/ volume) of

lyophilized live vaccine per month was typically required for a stocking rate of 18 000.



24

A professional veterinarian would be required to compile vaccination programmes prior to

the starting up of activities. All vaccines would be kept by the poultry rearing manager’s in a

refrigerator, and applied personally.

3.5.7. Use of chemicals

The use of chemicals is mainly associated with soaps and disinfectants would be used for

cleansing purposes. The following product types would be required:

• Disinfectant soap: Based on historical operations, approximately 100 liters of

disinfectant soap would be required per year. Key uses would include staff biosecurity

(washing of boots and hands) and the washing of floors during deep cleaning. Historical

operations made use of Dermosan. It is recommended that this product also be used in

resumed operations, as the relevant Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) indicates that

the product does not pose any risk to the environment1.

• Broad spectrum disinfectant: Approximately 20 liters/ year of disinfectant will be needed

for the broiler farming operations. A broad spectrum fungicidal, virucidal and bactericidal

disinfectant specifically formulated against poultry pathogens would be required. Broiler

houses would be sprayed with diluted disinfectant prior to restocking. Historical

operations made use of “Virukill”. It is recommended that this product also be used in

resumed operations, as the relevant MSDS indicates that the product does not pose any

risk to the environment, and that the containers are suitable for disposal as general

waste2. Virukill is hazardous to human health when ingested, or if the undiluted product

is inhaled, and gloves and a mask should be worn when the product is being handled.

The relevant products are typically supplied in 25 liter re-usable plastic HDPE containers by

the industry.

3.5.8. Poisons

No poisons would be used directly by the poultry operator. An accredited pest control

service provider would be appointed to provide fly and rodent control programmes. The

service provider would be responsible for handling, maintaining and disposing of all poisons,

bait stations, etc. Rodent mortalities would be disposed of along with broiler mortalities,

unless specified otherwise by the pest control service provider.

3.5.9. Plastic bags and crates

Durable, re-usable plastic mesh-weave bags would be used for various purposes. These

would include the transport and storage of bedding and the collection and transport of

compostable waste. Bags would also be used to draw feed from the silos. Different sets of

bags would be kept to ensure no waste bags are used as feed bags. Bags would be kept in

the enclosed stores attached to Structures 5 and 6.

Plastic crates would be used for the transport of broilers to the abattoir. The crates would

conform to the requirements of the Poultry Regulations of 2006 (R. 61-64). Crates would be

washed and sterilized at the abattoir and stored indoors in one of the vacant storage

buildings near Structure 7.

1 Material Safety Data Sheet 1D078000 (JohnsonDiversey; 29/07/2002 revision 2).

2 Novartis AH, October 2005.



25

3.6. PROCESS OUTPUTS

Outputs would be comprised of grown broilers and of various waste streams.

3.6.1. Grown broilers

Taking into account typical mortality rates, operations would produce up to ~150 700 grown

broilers per year. The broilers would be slaughtered at the proposed abattoir.

3.6.2. Mortalities

Mortality rates are considerably higher in chicks than in older birds. The majority of

mortalities are caused by temperature stresses. The typical mortality rate for a well-run

operation of the intended scale is approximately 8% per production cycle. This translates

into approximately 13 104 birds per year. At an average weight of 2.3 kg per adult bird, this

translates into 30 139.2 kg (= ca. 30 ton) per year. Mortalities would be collected daily,

temporarily stored in a dedicated waste freezer at the proposed abattoir, and disposed off-

site at a licensed facility weekly. No mortalities would be accepted for composting on

Steinthal.

Bins, conforming to specifications of R.18 and 19 of the Poultry Regulations, would be

provided for the daily collection and transport of mortalities.

3.6.3. Manure

Based on historical measurements on Steinthal Estate, operations would produce a

maximum of approximately 309.3 m³ of manure per year. This figure includes shavings

clinging to the manure at the time of removal.

From approximately life cycle-day 4 or 5 onward, manure would removed from the broiler

houses at least three times per week. Removal would be done manually, with shovels. The

manure would be collected in plastic bags, and taken to the composting site for processing.

3.6.4. Bedding

For the purposes of this OEMP it is assumed that maximum annual waste generation from

this source would equal inputs, and constitute 830 m³ of shavings per year. Used bedding

would be taken to the composting site for composting.

3.6.5. General waste

It is anticipated that general waste generation would be minimal, and would likely consist of

torn mesh-weave bags, broken crates and staff waste (sweet wrappers, paper, etc). A large

waste container (bin with heavy lid) would be provided at the relevant sites. General waste

would be disposed of together with the rest of the Estate’s general domestic waste, namely

placed at the manned Estate entrance for weekly collection by Witzenberg Municipality’s

waste disposal trucks.

3.6.6. Potentially hazardous waste

The relevant material would consist of a very small number of used vaccination ampoules.

In total, operations would generate 3 x 5 ml ampoules per month = 36 x 5 ml ampoules per

year. This small quantity is safe for disposal along with the Estate’s general household

waste.



26

3.6.7. Waste water

Cleaning operations would generate an estimated 63 m³/ year of treatable waste water per

year (WWMP, 2013). As indicated above, broiler houses 2 and 6 would need to be

connected to the ETP system prior to any stocking. In addition, given the long period of

dormancy since 2008, existing wastewater connections would need to be checked for leaks,

and repaired as necessary.

3.8. ASSOCIATED ON-SITE TRAFFIC FLOWS

Traffic flows would be associated with chicks and feed from external suppliers via the

Steinthal public road, and internal traffic flows between the broiler houses, abattoir and

composting site. Movement to and from the upper houses would require use of a portion of

the Schoonderzicht servitude road (Figure 3.1). Heavy vehicle movements would only be

associated with chicks and feed, and would consist of around 8 trips per month in total.

3.9. LABOR

Operations would require approximately 4 laborers plus an operations manager. From

Monday to Friday, two teams of two laborers each would be responsible for the upper and

lower sites, respectively. The teams would take turns to share duties at structure 7. Shifts

would be from 7h00 to 17h00, and would include an hour lunch break. Duties on Saturdays

and Sundays would be carried out by 2 workers per time on a rotation basis. Shifts would

be from 6h00 to 9h00 and 15h00 to 17h00.

In accordance with the requirements of the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA),

workers would be trained to perform all necessary functions in a safe manner, and respond

to emergency situations.



27

SECTION 4: BASELINE INFORMATION

Please refer to Section 4 of the WWMP for baseline information with regard to the following:

• ETP treated water quality;

• ETP sludge levels and quality;

• Tierkloof water quality (upstream and downstream sample points);

• Tierkloof water use profile;

• Irrigated soils physical and chemical characteristics, and

• Control soils physical and chemical characteristics.

Sampling, recording and monitoring programmes for these aspects are provided in the

WWMP (Section 6). Figure 4.1. below provides an overview of the location of specified

monitoring points:

• Tierkloof upstream-downstream monitoring points and 3 contingency sample points (D-

F);

• Treated wastewater quality (Pond 6) and sludge composition (Pond 1) at the ETP;

• And irrigated and control soils. In addition, provision is made for a second control soil

adjacent to the composting site (orange dot).

Figure 4.1. Overview of WWMP and Composting OEMP monitoring points.



28

SECTION 5. APPICABLE LEGISLATION

5.1. INTRODUCTION

This section outlines key applicable legislation. The focus is on broiler farming activities.

Please refer to the parallel WWMP and Composting OEMP with regard to legislation

concerning water and wastewater use and disposal by composting, respectively.

5.2. NEMA (ACT NO. 107 OF 1998)

The National Environmental Management Act (Act No. 107 of 1998 – as amended – “NEMA”)

puts into effect a broad management framework with regard to the implementation of the

Environmental rights outlined in section 24 of Chapter 2 (“Bill of Rights”) of the

Constitution.

Section 28 of NEMA provides for a general Duty of Care towards the environment, which

obliges every person who causes, has caused or may cause significant environmental

degradation to take reasonable measures to prevent such degradation from occurring,

continuing or recurring (section 28 (1)). The obligation to take reasonable measures is

imposed on, amongst others, a land owner, a person in control of land or a person who has

the right to use the land on which relevant activities are located (section 28 (2)).

In terms of Section 30 the Steinthal Estate Board is obliged to report “all incidents” to the

relevant authorities. An “incident” is defined in S. 30 (1) (a) as an unexpected sudden

occurrence. including a major emission, fire or explosion leading to serious danger to the

public or potentially serious pollution of or detriment to the environment, whether

immediate or delayed. Key potential incidents at the proposed composting facility are likely

to include:

• accidental releases of untreated waste or wastewater into the environment (major leaks

or spills);

• Natural disasters or damage which cause broilers or waste to be released into the

environment;

• Fire in a broiler house.

Section 30 (3) obliges Steinthal to forthwith establish the nature of the incident; any risks

posed by the incident to public health, safety and property; the toxicity of substances or

by-products released by the incident; and any steps that should be taken in order to avoid

or minimise the effects of the incident on public health and the environment, and notify the

following parties accordingly: DEA&DP, South African Police Services, local fire fighting

service (if applicable), any relevant provincial head of department or the local municipality,

as well as all persons whose health or property may be affected by the incident.

Section 30 (4) obliges Steinthal to, as soon as reasonably practicable after knowledge of the

incident, take all reasonable measures to contain and minimise the effects of the incident,

including its effects on the environment and any risks posed by the incident; undertake

clean-up procedures to remedy the effects of the incident; and assess the immediate and

long-term effects of the incident on the environment and public health.



29

Section 30 (5) obliges Steinthal to report, within 14 days of the incident having taken place,

the following information to the same parties identified in 30 (3):

• the nature of the incident;

• the substances involved and an estimation of the quantity released and their possible

acute effect on persons and the environment and data needed to assess these effects;

• initial measures taken to minimise impacts;

• causes of the incident, whether direct or indirect. including equipment, technology.

system. or management failure; and

• measures taken and to be taken to avoid a recurrence of such incident.

Sections 30 (7) provide for appropriate responses from the relevant authorities, including

the issuing of verbal and written directives. Section 30 (6) provides that Steinthal must

undertake all response/ remedial measures specified by the authorities within stipulated

timeframes.


The NEMA Regulations provide schedules of listed activities which would require

environmental assessment processes to be undertaken prior to the start of activities.

Activities listed in R386 would require a Basic Environmental Assessment to be undertaken.

Broiler farming activities would trigger the following scheduled activities:

1 (h) The construction of facilities or infrastructure, including associated structures or

infrastructure, for the concentration of animals for the purpose of commercial production in

densities that exceed - (v) three square meters per head of poultry and more than 250

poultry per facility at any time, excluding chicks younger than 20 days.

17 Phased activities where any one phase of the activity may be below a threshold

specified in the Schedule (i.e. R.386) but where a combination of the phases, including

expansions and extensions, exceed the specified thresholds, of viz. exceeding 1000m² of

covered structures for the rearing of broiler chickens in an area not zoned for agri-industrial

purposes, as defined in sub-regulation 1 (j)3.

Any conditions which may be set by DEA&DP in the record of decision must be

implemented.


New NEMA Regulations came into effect in August 2010. The Schedule in R386 of 2006 is

repealed by R544 of 2010. R 386. The current application however predates the

promulgation of R544. The following listed activities functionally replace the activities listed

in terms of R 386:

[6] The construction of facilities or infrastructure for the concentration of – (ii). more than

5000 poultry per facility situated outside an urban area, excluding chicks younger than 20

days.

3 viz. The construction of facilities or infrastructure, including associated structures or infrastructure, for agro-industrial purposes outside areas zoned for industrial purposes that cover an area of 1 000 square meters or more. ( where “agri-industrial” is defined as: an undertaking involving the production, processing, manufacture, packaging or storage of agricultural produce….



30

(28) The expansion of existing facilities for any process or activity where such expansion

will result in the need for a new, or amendment of, an existing permit or license in terms of

national or provincial legislation governing the release of emissions or pollution, excluding

where the facility, process or activity is included in the list of waste management activities

published in terms of section 19 of the National Environmental Management: Waste Act,

2008 (Act No. 59 of 2008) in which case that Act will apply.

5.3. WATER USE

Implementation of water legislation is primarily administrated by the Department of Water

Affairs (DWA), with functions delegated to the Western Cape DWA.

5.3.1. National Water Act (Act 36 of 1998)

The National Water Act (NWA) provides a framework for the equitable allocation and

sustainable management of water resources. Both surface and groundwater sources are

redefined by the Act as national resources which cannot be owned by any individual, and

rights to which are not automatically coupled to land rights, but for which prospective users

must apply for allocation and register as users. The NWA also provides for measures to

prevent, control and remedy the pollution of surface and groundwater sources.

Section 19 outlines measures for the prevention and remediation of pollution, and Section

20 measures in response to emergency incidents. The measures outlined in S. 20 are

essentially the same as NEMA S.30.

Section 21 identifies water users and uses which need to be registered and licensed,

including: (b) storing water, (e) engaging in a controlled activity identified as such in

section 37(1) or declared under section 38(1), (g) disposing of waste in a manner which

may detrimentally impact on a water resource.

In terms of GN 399 of 2004 (‘General Authorization”) in terms of S.39 of the NWA, Steinthal

is currently authorized to treat and dispose of (by irrigation) up to 63 m3/ d (peak flow), at

an annual rate not exceeding 17 713 m3, and provided that irrigation only takes place

during the summer months, and further adheres to GA Schedule 2 conditions and

parameters. Refer to the WWMP Section 5 for a detailed overview of GN 399 and

management implications for Steinthal.

5.4. WASTE

Implementation of NEM:WA and waste legislation is primarily administrated by the

Department of Environmental Affairs (DEA), with functions delegated to the Western Cape

DEA&DP.

As broiler mortalities would be temporarily stored (frozen) at the proposed abattoir, certain

sections of the 2006 Poultry Regulations are also applicable. The Poultry Regulations are

primarily the responsibility of the DAFF, with functions delegated to the Western Cape

Department of Agriculture.



31

5.4.1. NEM: WASTE ACT (Act 59 of 2008)

NEM: WA is one of a number of acts which focuses on applying the national environmental

management framework outlined in NEMA to specific aspects of environment management,

e.g. bio-diversity, air quality and waste management. NEM: WA specifically deals with

matters pertaining to all waste management, including wastewater.

Objectives of the Act outlined in Section 2 include (a) to protect health, well-being and the

environment by providing reasonable measures for (iii) reducing, re-using, recycling and

recovering waste; (v) preventing pollution and ecological degradation; and (vi) securing

ecologically sustainable development while promoting justifiable economic and social

development.

Section 6 (1) makes provision for the development of a National Waste Management

Strategy (NWMS) to give effect to the key objectives of the Act, including the provision of

measures to ensure that waste disposal activities are not harmful to people or the

environment as per Section 24 of the Constitution.

Section 20 (b) provides that no waste management activity listed in terms of Section 19 of

the Act may be undertaken without a waste management license (WML) or without historic

licenses or GAs in place.

5.4.2. National Waste Management Strategy (2011)

The NWMS, as provided for in S. 6 (1) of NEM: WA was approved by cabinet in November

2011. The NWMS is based on the waste hierarchy concept, as first outlined in the 1999

White Paper on Integrated Pollution and Waste Management, which identifies waste

avoidance and reduction as the basal strategy, and disposal by landfilling as last resort (i.e.

top of the hierarchy pyramid). After avoidance, recovery, re-use and recycling comprise the

second most basal level of the waste management hierarchy/ strategy.

Broiler farming operations should strive to:

• minimize solid waste generation (e.g. by re-using bags and crates);

• minimize wastewater generation (e.g. by correct use of cleaning equipment);

• re-use/ recycle organic material which could be safely composted at Steinthal or an off-

site licensed facility;

• capture, treat and beneficially irrigate with wastewater;

• only dispose by landfill such waste which cannot be safely disposed of otherwise (e.g.

mortalities).

5.4.3. NEM:WA Regulations (2009)

The Waste Regulations (GRN 718 of 2009) were promulgated in terms of Section 19 (1) of

NEM: WA, and defines activities which would require application for a waste management

license.

The Schedule provides for Category A (3 (1-20)) and Category B (4 (1-11)) activities.

Category A activities include: 3 (17) The storage, treatment, or processing of animal

manure at a facility with a capacity to process in excess of one ton per day.



32

Steinthal is currently in the process of applying for a WML to operate a small General type

Communal size (G:C) waste management facility for the purposes of composting broiler

manure, bedding and feathers.


The Poultry Regulations were promulgated in terms of Section 22 of the Meat Safety Act

(Act No. 40 of 2000). The purpose of the Regulations is to apply the intent and general

provisions of the Meat Safety Act to the operation of specifically poultry abattoirs.

Part VIII (Sections 89-95) outline the requirements for the treatment and disposal of

condemned material/ slaughter waste, and are also applicable to broiler mortalities which

would be disposed of via the abattoir.

Section 89. (1) provides that carcasses which cannot be passed for human or animal

consumption must be –

• (a) placed in a theft proof container which has been clearly marked “CONDEMNED”, in

letters not less than 10 cm high, or conspicuously marked with a stamp bearing the

word "CONDEMNED", using green ink;

• (b) kept in a holding area or a room or dedicated chiller provided for the purpose, except

if removed on a continuous basis; and

• (c) removed from the abattoir at the end of the working day or be secured in a

dedicated chiller or freezer at an air temperature of at least minus 2 °C.

S. 89 (3) provides that the abattoir owner is responsible for complying with all legal

requirements or conditions relating to the safeguarding of any carcass which cannot be

passed for human or animal consumption. S.90 provides for permissible ways of disposing

of such condemned material:

• 90. (a) total incineration (at a licensed facility);

• (b) denaturing and burial of condemned material at a safe site, approved by the PEO

and local government (i.e. Witzenberg Municipality);

• (c) processing at a registered sterilizing plant; and

• (d) any other method for which a protocol has been approved by the PEO – e.g.

composting at a licensed facility, or disposal at a licensed landfill site, as was

recommended by the PEO, Dr Christie Kloppers, and is currently proposed.

S.94. provides measures applicable to the transport of condemned material/ waste. S.94

(1) provides that a dedicated vehicle should be used for transporting waste, and that such a

vehicle may not be used to transport edible product. S. 94 (2) provides that the load space

must be lockable, theft proof, and sealable.

5.5. HUMANE TREATMENT OF BIRDS

Implementation of key legislation is primarily administrated by the DAFF, with functions

delegated to the Western Cape Department of Agriculture.

Both the Meat Safety Act and the Poultry Regulations (S. 62-67) make provision for the

humane treatment of birds during capture and transport. Provisions in both require

adherence to the provisions of the Animals Protection Act of 1962.



33

5.5.1. Animals Protection Act (Act 71 of 1962)

The Animal Protection Act is aimed at preventing cruelty to animals, including chickens

(“fowl”) (Definitions).

In terms of the Act, the owner of an animal includes any person having the possession,

charge, custody or control of that animal (Definitions), or who is capable of, by the exercise

of reasonable care and supervision, preventing acts of cruelty occurring (S. 2). In this

definition, broiler farming management (directly) and the SEB (supervisory) would both be

responsible for ensuring the welfare of broilers on Steinthal.

Section 1 defines punishable offences in terms of the Act. The following subsections are of

specific relevance to Steinthal:

• 1 (a) ill-treatment, neglect, torture, maiming, kicking or terrifying of animals;

• (b) confining animals in conditions which are likely to cause suffering, including

confinement which affords inadequate space, ventilation, light, protection and shelter

from heat, cold and weather;

• (c) unnecessarily starving, under-feeding or withholding sufficient drinking water;

• (e) deliberately or negligently keeps animals in dirty or parasitic conditions, failure to

provide veterinary care, and failure to destroy injured or diseased animals;

• (m) conveys, carries or confines an animal in conditions which may cause unnecessary

suffering (i), or in conditions which are overly exposed to heat, cold, weather, sun, rain,

dust or exhaust gases and noxious fumes (ii);

5.5.2. Meat Safety Act (Act 40 of 2000)

The Meat Safety Act is the most fundamental piece of legislation with regard to the

operation of abattoirs. Essential national standards which apply to all abattoirs are defined

in Section 11 (1). Of these, the following are of key relevance:

• 11 (1) (h). Animals presented for slaughter must be handled humanely during loading,

transportation, off-loading, housing, immobilizing and killing, as prescribed by the

Animals Protection Act.


Part V (s. 62-71) outlines requirements for the humane treatment of poultry. Sections 61-

64 also apply to broiler farming operations:

Section 61 addresses the catching and transport of poultry, and provides that (1) catching

of poultry on the farm and transport to the abattoir must be done considering the Animal

Protection Act 1962 (Act no. 71 of 1962).

Section 63 concerns requirements for vehicles and containers during transport. S.63. (1)

provides that crates must be designed such that sufficient shelter, shade and ventilation

are provided for birds in transit. S. 63. (3) prohibits the tying of legs during transport. S 63

(2) provides that crates used to transport poultry must –

• 62. (2).(b) not be overloaded, enabling all birds to rest on the floor of the crate at the

same time;

• (c) be high enough to allow poultry to move their heads in a normal upright manner

when sitting on the floor;



34

• (d) have a lid that can be secured to prevent the birds from escaping;

• (e) be constructed to prevent protrusion of the head, wings, legs, feet and toes; and

• (f) be manufactured free of sharp edges or any features which could cause any injuries;

Section 64 provides measures applicable during offloading. Provisions include:

• 64. (1) Vehicles waiting to offload live poultry, and crates with live poultry after

offloading, must be parked or put in a shaded area while maintaining ventilation through

crates.

• (2) Crates with live poultry must be handled with care in such a manner as to avoid

unnecessary suffering, injury, pain and excitement of birds.

• (3) Birds received in crates must be slaughtered within four hours of arrival at the

abattoir and may not be kept overnight.

• (4) Birds that are seen to be moribund, excessively injured or unfit for slaughter at

offloading, must be euthanized without delay and destroyed.

• (5) Birds that are injured while awaiting slaughter must be preferentially slaughtered.

• (6) The owner of a vehicle must ensure that the vehicle used to transport poultry to an

abattoir is kept in a clean and hygienic condition.

5.6. ANIMAL HEALTH AND BIO-SECURITY

Implementation of the Meat Safety Act and Regulations is primarily administrated by the

DAFF, with functions delegated to the Western Cape Department of Agriculture (Provincial

Executive Officer (PEO)).

5.6.1. Animal Diseases Act (Act 35 of 1984)

Regulatory measures for animal health in South Africa are governed by the Animal Diseases

Act. The purpose of the Act is to provide measures for the control of animal diseases and

parasites, and to promote animal health. In terms of the Act, a “controlled animal disease”

is any disease for which a particular control measure has been prescribed (definitions).

The Act empowers the Minister to declare/ list controlled and notifiable animal diseases.

According to the DAFF: Directorate Animal Health, no notifiable poultry diseases are

currently listed.

The following controlled poultry diseases are currently listed:

• Any animal disease or infectious agent not known to occur in South Africa;

• Newcastle disease;

• Notifiable avian influenza (“bird flu”);

• Psittacosis;

• Salmonella Enteriditis;

• Salmonella Gallinarum (Fowl typhoid);

• Salmonella Pullorum;

• All types of tuberculosis4.

4 www.nda.agric.za/vetweb/Disease Control/List of controlled notifiable Animal Diseases 2007.pdf,

posted 18 June 2010.



35

Note that in terms of both the Meat Safety Act and the Animal Health Act, the SEB would be

obliged to notify the DA: VPH immediately upon suspicion of the occurrence of any

controlled disease, both at the abattoir and broiler farming components.

5.6.2. Animal Health Act (Act 7 of 2002)

The Animal Diseases Act is complimented by, and due to be replaced by, the Animal Health

Act. The purpose of the Act is to promote animal health and control animal diseases.

Section 17 concerns the duties of owners regarding the health of animals, and is of key

relevance.

• 17 (1) (a) provides that all reasonable steps must be taken to avoid infection, prevent

the spreading of animal disease or parasite, and eradicating any disease or parasites.

• (b) provides that ill or infected birds must be appropriately treated (i), and that when

infection of any bird with a controlled disease is suspected, the incidence should be

immediately reported to the PEO in the prescribed manner (ii).

• Section 17 (1) (c) provides that the PEO should be informed of the occurrence of any

abnormal morbidity and mortality amongst birds.

In terms of S. 19, the PEO is empowered to enter, search and carry out inspections at any

reasonable time. S.20 sets out procedures for disposing diseased/ infected birds at the

discretion of the PEO.

In terms of S.24 Steinthal is required to keep copies of all official documents and

correspondence related to the broiler farming activities.


The Department of Labour is responsible for implementation of key legislation, with

functions delegated to the Western Cape Department of Labour.

5.7.1. Occupational Health and Safety Act (Act 85 of 1993)

The purpose of the Act is, amongst others, to provide for the health and safety of persons at

work (…) (Preamble). In terms of the Act, a “workplace” is constituted by “any premises or

place where a person performs work in the course of his employment” (Definitions).

S.8 sets out the general duties of any employer towards employees. S. 8 (1) provides that a

reasonably safe and risk-free working environment must be provided and maintained,

including with hazard identification and avoidance (2 a-d) all along the production chain.

Further duties include OHS training, adequate work supervision, and ensuring workers

understand the scope of their responsibilities (e-j).

Section 24 deals with the duty to report certain incidents. Reportable incidents include

death, loss of consciousness, occurrence of a major catastrophe, or major spilling of a

substance which may endanger the health and safety of workers.



36

5.7.2. OHSA Draft Regulations (R 1039 of 2005).

R 1039 of 2005 was promulgated in terms of S. 43 of the OHSA. Regulation 2 (3) requires

employers to provide workers with all safety clothing and equipment necessary to fulfill their

tasks without undue exposure to OHS risks, and 2 (5) obliges owners to train workers in

proper use and maintenance of equipment. Regulation 7 sets out minimum first-aid

response requirements. 7 (4) obliges every employer of more than 10 people to employ

someone with a valid certificate of competency in first aid which should be available at all

working hours.

5.7.3. OHSA General Administrative Regulations (R 929 of 2003)

R 929 was promulgated in 2003 in terms of S. 43 of the OHSA. Regulation 8 makes more

specific provision for the reporting of OHS incidents, as described in S.24 of OHSA. In terms

of 8 (1) (a-b), an employer must notify the Provincial Director: WC Department of Labour

within 7 days of any incident having occurred. R 9 (1) provides that a written record must

be kept of all incidents for at least 3 years.

5.8. SUMMARY OF KEY APPLICABLE LEGISLATION

An overview of key applicable legislation is provided in Table 5.1. below. Focus is on aspects

not covered in parallel OEMPs.

Table 5.1. Summary of key legal provisions

ASPECT

LEGISLATION KEY

SECTIONS

COMMENT

BIOSECURITY Animal Health Act S.17 Prevention, containment,

treatment of ill and

diseased birds

HUMANE

TREATMENT OF

BIRDS

Animals Protection Act

(Act 71 of 1962)

S. 1 (a); 2 General offences and duty

of responsibility

Meat Safety Act (2000) S. 11 (h) General requirement

during capture and

transport.

Poultry Regs (R 153 of

2006)

Part V

(R. 61-64)

Humane treatment

practices, including

catching, transport and

offloading.

MANAGEMENT

DUTIES

OHSA (1993) S.8 OHS duty towards

employees

NOTIFIABLE

INCIDENTS

NEMA S.30 Incidents, within a 14 day

period

NWA S. 19-20 Incidents which may affect

water resource

Animal Diseases Act Gazetted

Notices

List of controlled diseases

Animal Health Act S.17. (1) (c) Duty to report incidence of

controlled disease to PEO

OHSA (1993) S.24 Duty to report OHS related

incidents



37

ASPECT

LEGISLATION KEY

SECTIONS

COMMENT

General Administrative

Regulations (2003)

R. 8 Notification of OHSA S24

incidents to Department of

Health within 7 days

OHS OHSA (1993) S.8 OHS duty towards

employees

Draft General Safety

Regulations (2005)

S. 2 • Protective clothing;

• OHS training

S.7 • First aid requirements

RECORD

KEEPING

Animal Health Act S.24 Copies of all official

correspondence relating to

broiler farming operations

General Administrative

Regulations (2003)

R. 9 All incidents reported in

terms of S24 of OHSA

TRANSPORT Animals Protection Act

(Act 71 of 1962)

S. 1 (m) Humane treatment of live

birds during transport


2006)

R .63 Requirements for vehicles

carrying live birds


2006)

R . 94 Transport of slaughter

waste/ mortalities for

disposal

STAFF TRAINING Draft General Safety

Regulations (2005)

S. 2 OHS training



38

SECTION 6: MANAGEMENT PROVISIONS

6.1. INTRODUCTION

The purpose of this section is to provide measures to ensure –

• operations adhere to applicable legislation;

• operations do not pose a risk to the environment;

• operations do not pose a risk to the health and safety of workers;

• operations do not pose nuisance a risk to neighbors;

• necessary records are kept;

• necessary Registers are kept;

• notifiable incidents are reported to the relevant authorities;

• a remedial response strategy is in place to deal with accidental spills and emergencies.

Focus is on operational aspects, but measures are also provided for managing key potential

(limited) construction phase impacts.

Provisions made in the 3 other OEMPs have not been duplicated. Instead, the reader is

referred to the relevant OEMPs where applicable.

6.2. ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

6.2.1. Steinthal Estate Board

As the registered landowner, the SEB would be ultimately responsible for ensuring

adherence to all provisions made in this OEMP.

Direct responsibilities would include:

• Ensuring legal compliance in terms of NEMA, NEM:WA and NWA, and such conditions of

approval as may be specified by DEA&DP;

• Ensuring material implementation of all the measures made in this OEMP;

• Implementation of soil and water quality monitoring programmes (WWMP);

• Ensuring co-ordination between broiler farming and related activities on the Estate (e.g.

abattoir, composting, wastewater treatment);

• Intervening where necessary, to ensure no birds are not mistreated, as provided in the

Animals Protection Act;

• Inspecting broiler houses on a monthly basis, and keeping a record of all site

inspections;

• Keeping of Complaints and Incidents Registers;

• Reporting notifiable incidents to the relevant authorities;

• Implementing remedial actions, as may be required;

• Ensuring annual audits against key performance indicators (KPIs) defined in this OEMP

are carried out.

Past experience on Steinthal has indicated the crucial importance of regular site inspections

by the SEB. Provision is therefore made for monthly inspections by the SEB.



39

� A record of inspections should be included in the annual audit. The audit should assess

the frequency of inspections, and responses and timeframes in dealing with issues noted

during inspections.

6.2.2. Operator/ Poultry Manager

At this stage it is unclear whether the SEB will operate and manage operations itself, or

lease operations out to an outside party. In this OEMP, the Poultry Manager would function

as the proxy of any operator, whether the SEB or a lessee. The manager would be

responsible for day to day operations. Key operator/ management responsibilities defined in

terms of applicable legislation include:

• General duty of care towards environment, in terms of NEMA;

• Staff operational and OHS training;

• General housekeeping;

• Ensuring animals are properly cared for;

• Daily supervision, including site inspections of all broiler houses;

• Exercising duties towards ensuring health and safety of workers, as defined in terms of

S.8 of OHSA;

• Ensuring the facility and equipment are maintained in good working order;

• Keeping of operational records, as required in terms of S. 24 of the Animal Health Act;

• Reporting incidents, accidents, etc to the SEB;

• Notifying the DA: VPH of controlled diseases.

6.3. ACTIVITIES PRIOR TO COMISSIONING

This section provides an overview of aspects which would need to be addressed prior to

broiler farming activities becoming operational. A number of aspects would also require

ongoing management as long as activities remain operational (see Objectives 1-10 below).

The SEB would be responsible for ensuring the aspects below are addressed prior to broiler

farming activities resuming, either directly, or by ensuring such is affected by any lessee:

Table 6.1. Initial requirements:

ASPECT

ACTION

TIMEFRAMES

1. UPDATE OEMP

• Update with any relevant conditions of

approval specified by DEA&DP and not

currently addressed in this OEMP.

Once S24G

authorization has

been obtained.

2. REZONING

• Pending Consent

Use application

• Inform Witzenberg authorities of outcome

of S24G process;

• Obtain relevant Zoning Certificate.

Once S24G

authorization has

been obtained.

3. BUILDING PLANS

• Broiler Houses 1-6

• Resubmit plans to Witzenberg, and effect

any amendments required for approval.

Once rezoning has

been approved.



40

ASPECT

ACTION

TIMEFRAMES

4. CONSTRUCTION

• Alterations

required by

Council;

• Repairs;

• Check & repair

electrical and

waste/ water

connections.

• Appointment of accredited contractor(s);

• Implementation of measures outlined in

S. 6.4. below.

Once building plans

have been approved.

Ongoing

maintenance to

ensure houses are in

good repair and

make a neat

impression.

5. EQUIPMENT

• Feed silos;

• Water/ feed

dispensing;

• Heaters and lamps;

• Cleaning;

• Protective gear and

clothing;

• Transport crates;

• Waste bags, bins,

drums, etc

• Check and ensure sufficient and adequate

equipment is available prior to allowing

stocking.

Prior to allowing

stocking.

To be maintained for

as long as activities

are operations

6. ACCESS

CONTROL

• Lockable buildings;

• Bird and vermin-

proof houses.

• Ensure all broiler houses and stores are

fitted with working locks;

• Ensure all houses are bird and vermin

proof.

7. SIGNAGE

• All broiler houses.

The entrances to all houses should be fitted

with prominent, weatherproof signs

indicating:

- Restricted access area;

- Wash hands and boots before

entering;

- No smoking, eating or drinking.

8. VISUAL

• Appearance of

broiler houses;

• Visual screening

houses 3-5.

• Ensure that all repairs, etc are properly

done, and make a neat impression;

• Ensure that broiler houses 3-5 are neatly

painted in a neutral color;

• Plant appropriate indigenous trees and

shrubs to screen broiler houses 3-5 from

Schoonderzicht road and houses on Bella

Vista. Preference should be given to

locally adapted, water-wise plants.



41

ASPECT

ACTION

TIMEFRAMES

9. STAFF

FACILITIES

ACCESS

• Showers;

• First aid.

• Ensure poultry operations staff would

have access to shower facilities on the

Estate, preferably separate from facilities

used by institutional staff and learners;

• Ensure access to first aid , including to

someone qualified in providing first aid on

the Estate (e.g. at the abattoir).

10. SUPPORTING

INFRASTRUC-

TURE

• ETP;

• Composting

facility;

• Abattoir.

• Ensure provision has been made for

implementing upgrades to ETP prior to

generation of wastewater;


construction of licensed composting

facility prior to generation of any waste.

• Ensure dedicated waste freezer is

available at abattoir prior to generating

waste.

• Ensure the composting facility is

constructed according to plan prior to any

broiler waster being generated;

11. WASTE

MANAGEMENT

• Bins

• Vehicles

• Confirm arrangements with waste

processing service providers (mortalities);


suitable bins to collect, transport and

temporarily store mortalities;

• Ensure suitable vehicles are available for

the transport of manure, mortalities and

live birds.

12. SERVICE

PROVIDERS

• Fire fighting

• Pest control

• Appoint an accredited fire fighting service

provider to assess adequacy of existing

high-pressure hoses at broiler houses,

and advise on any additional equipment

required. All additional equipment

provided should include a maintenance

programme provided by the service

provider.

• Appoint an accredited pest control service

provider to implement fly and rodent

control measures according to a written

fly and rodent control plan (to be

provided by service provider). The service

provider should be responsible for

handling all baits and poisons.

13. MANAGEMENT

• Appointment of

Poultry Manager;

• Ensure that a suitably qualified person is

appointed to manage poultry operations

(Poultry Manager);

• Provide Poultry Manager with a copy of



42

ASPECT

ACTION

TIMEFRAMES

• OEMP provisions;

• Co-coordinating

farming

components

the OEMP, and ensure all management

provisions are understood;

• Ensure other operations managers

(abattoir, etc.) are aware of applicable

parts of this OEMP.

• Ensure cross-cutting activities (e.g.

composting, disposal of mortalities) are

properly co-ordinated between

components by providing clear channels

of communication at the outset.

14. STAFF

TRAINING

• Routine tasks;

• OHS;

• Emergencies;

• Incidents.

Ensure that provision has been made to train

all operational staff with regard to the

following:

• Proper care of birds;

• Bio-security;

• Workplace hazards and necessary

precautions;

• Safe and proper use of equipment;

• Routine equipment and infrastructure

checks;

• Solid waste and wastewater

management;

• Responses to emergencies and incidents.

15. RECORD

KEEPING

• Measuring;

• Recording.

Ensure physical provision is made for the

measuring and recording of all necessary

process information, including:

• Water meters, scales, etc to record

process inputs and outputs;

• Documenting templates.

16. CHEMICALS

• Safe storage;

• MSDS.

• Ensure broiler farming operations has

access to a lockable chemicals store for

all detergents, disinfectants and other

chemicals used;

• Ensure provision is made for the safe

storage (accessible to Poultry Manager

only) for vaccines and medicines;

• Ensure physical provision is made for the

keeping of MSDS for all chemical products

used in operations.

17. PUBLIC

COMPLAINTS

REGISTER

• Physical provision has to be made for a

ledger according to provisions made in S.

6.13 below.



43

ASPECT

ACTION

TIMEFRAMES

18. INCIDENTS

REGISTER

• Emergencies;

• Accidents;

• Incidents.

• Physical provision has to be made for a

ledger according to provisions made in S.

6.14 below.

6.4. CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITIES

The relevant structures are all currently in existence. Alterations and repairs may be

required. Relatively minor activities are anticipated.

Alterations to existing buildings and infrastructure may be required by Council. In addition,

any damage to buildings or supporting infrastructure would need to be repaired, and broiler

houses 2 and 6 need to be connected to the central wastewater system. Broiler houses 3-5

may also need to be freshly painted.

The measurers provided in Table 6.2. below are aimed at ensuring that any necessary

activities are carried out in a responsible way. The SEB would be ultimately responsible for

appointing and supervising all contractors and sub-contractors.

Table 6.2. Construction phase measures

ITEM ASPECT

PROVISION

1. CONTRACTORS

Checks • Once plans have been approved, electrical,

fresh water and waste water connections should

be checked.

Appointment • Suitable (sub-) contractors should be appointed

to ensure structures and infrastructure comply

to specifications, built, electrical and otherwise;

• Appointees should comply with all OHSA

requirements;

• Preference should be given to contractors from

the local community (Tulbagh, Witzenberg,

CWDM).

Supervision • Work would have to be supervised on an

ongoing basis to ensure it is executed according

to plan, and that the provisions below are

implemented on-site.

Signing off • Work should only be signed off once plans have

been signed off by a building inspector.

2. SITE Limiting impacts • Care should be taken to minimize impacts to

soils and vegetation around the broiler houses,

as this may cause denudation and erosion.

• Care should be taken in choosing suitable

locations for stockpiling building material and



44

ITEM ASPECT

PROVISION

rubble/ building waste on the sites.

• Vehicles should stick to existing roads as far as

possible;

• Care should be taken not to damage existing

infrastructure (e.g. buried pipelines).

Neat operations • At the end of each working day, materials and

waste should be neatly and securely stockpiled.

• If building sand is required, heaps should be

kept covered to prevent blow-outs.

Post-

construction

• At the end of construction activities, the sites

must be in a neat condition, with no waste or

left-over construction material present.

• All wastes should be removed and disposed of

responsibly (see below).

3. TRAFFIC Schoonderzicht

road

• No stationary vehicles or avoidable construction

activities may block the servitude road at any

given time.

4. WASTE Asbestos waste • If any asbestos waste is present, the contractor

should ensure the requirements of the 2001

OHSA Asbestos Regulations (R. 155 of 2002)

are adhered to, specifically:

• R. 17 dealing with protective worker clothing;

and

• R.20 which deals with the safe disposal of

asbestos waste.

Construction

waste

• All waste must be neatly managed and

stockpiled during activities;

• All material should be disposed of at a licensed

facility at a licensed facility. Rubble

Waste

minimization

• Where possible and safe, demolition waste

should be re-used or recycled rather than

landfilled.

5. WASTE WATER Paints, solvents,

etc

• No chemical waste, including paints and

solvents, should be washed to drain;

• Liquid chemical waste and containers should be

safely disposed of at a licensed facility by the

relevant (sub) contractor.

6.4.1. Monitoring and auditing

Any incidents, emergencies or complaints arising from construction activities should be

recorded accordingly in the Incidents and Complaints Registers.

� The first annual OEMP audit should include assessment of the relevant Registers.

The audit should also assess whether effective post-construction clean-up activities have

taken place. The safe disposal of all construction waste should be accounted for, and no

denudation, waste or rubble should be visible at any of the sites.



45

6.5. ONGOING LEGAL COMPLIANCE

In terms of NEMA, the SEB has a general duty of care towards the environment, including,

in its capacity of land owner, to take reasonable measures to prevent and reverse

environmental degradation/ adverse impacts on the environment and people. As legal land-

owner, the SEB is further obliged to ensure all activities on the property are carried out with

the necessary authorizations, licenses and permits in place.

In terms of OHSA, the SEB is ultimately responsible for ensuring safe workplace conditions

are provided and adhered to. In terms of the Animals Protection Act, the SEB has a similar

duty of responsibility towards animals kept or handled on its property, viz. to ensure

animals are not maltreated, are properly cared for, and maintained in a healthy state

(Animal Health Act). The SEB would also be directly responsible for implementing the

parallel OEMPs and associated monitoring programmes.

The SEB would further be required to keep certain records and Registers, as provided for

below in this OEMP. In addition, the SEB would be responsible for ensuring that notifiable

incidents are duly reported (see Section 6.15 below).

The broiler farming operator (represented by the Poultry Manager) has direct legal

obligations in terms of compliance with OHSA, the Animals Protection Act, the Animal

Diseases Act, and the Animal Health Act. The operator/ manager would be required to

physically keep records as specified in relevant legislation. The operator/ manager also has

a general duty of care towards the environment, as per NEMA S.28, including to ensure that

all Incidents are immediately reported to the SEB and the relevant authorities (S.30).

OBJECTIVE 1

ENSURING ONGOING LEGAL COMPLIANCE

Aspects/ Component/s

• Conditions of S24G approval;

• General duty of care (NEMA)

• General OHS safety provisions;

• Animal health and welfare;

• Notifiable incidents.

Potential Impacts/ Risks

• Adverse impacts on the environment;

• Preventable cruelty to animals;

• Adverse impacts on people and/ or property;

• Suspension of operations;

• Cancellation of licenses/ permits;

• Legal prosecution.

Key Activity/risk sources

• Implementation of conditions of approval;

• Implementation of OHS measures;

• Implementation of measures preventing

cruelty to birds;

• Notifiable incidents and remedial responses;

• Valid licenses, permits; etc;

• Documents control – recording and filing;

• Updating in response to new/ changed legal



46

requirements.

Target/Objectives

• Operations adhering to applicable legal

requirements at all times.

MITIGATION:

ACTION/CONTROLS

RESPONSIBILITY

TIMEFRAMES

1. Conditions of authorization must be

implemented, and adhered to at all

times.

2. Copies of all key applicable

legislation should be kept on file,

and all applicable sections

understood, and highlighted for

future reference purposes, including

at least –

• OHSA;

• The Animal Health Act;

• The 2006 Poultry Regulations;

3. Operations should at all times be

conducted in a way which bespeaks

a duty of care towards the

environment, natural resources, the

welfare of birds, and the safety of

staff.

4. Notifiable incidents should be

reported according to the

procedures in S.6.16 below.

5. Any remedial/ emergency actions

specified by authorities must be

implemented.

6. The OEMP should be updated with

any new/ changed applicable legal

requirements.

STEINTHAL

ESTATE BOARD

(1-6)

OPERATOR/ POULTRY

MANAGER

(3-5)

1-2. At start of

operations

4-5. Notifiable incidents

within timeframes set

out in S. 6.16 below.

6. OEMP updates at

least once a year.

Recording/ documenting

• Copies of all key applicable legislation;

• All approvals and supporting licenses, etc;

• All communication with authorities regarding

broiler farming activities, in terms of S.24 of

the Animal Health Act.

• All notifiable incidents.

Key

Performance Indicators

(KPIs)

1. Conditions of approval are adhered to.

2. All supporting approvals, licenses and permits

are in place (GA, WML, abattoir registration).

3. No official notices have been received from

any authority.

4. All notifiable incidents have been recorded,

reported and responded to as required.



47

Monitoring/ Auditing • Annual auditing against KPIs

6.6. SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT

As past experience on Steinthal indicates, proper solid waste management practices would

be key to avoiding negative operational environmental, health and nuisance impacts.

Operations would produce three categories of solid waste, namely mortalities, compostable

bedding and manure; and a small amount of general waste.

Mortalities constitute the highest risk category, and require measures aimed mainly at safe

disposal.

Bedding and manure require safe handling, and measures aimed at recovering nutrients,

thus avoiding both landfilling impacts as well as replacing some of the need for fertilizer on

the Estate’s fields.

General waste is likely to consist mainly of small amounts of plastic waste associated with

damaged plastic crates, bags, etc. Avoiding waste generation and managing potential litter/

site neatness impacts would be key approaches.

6.6.1. Mortalities

Mortalities are highly putrescible, and hold significant pollution, bio-security, public health

and nuisance risks. Risk exposure is associated with collection, temporary storage, transport

and disposal. Proper separation of mortalities from compostable waste would be key to

avoiding nuisance and other impacts at the composting facility.

Until another method is explicitly approved by DEA&DP in writing, mortalities should be

collected from the houses on daily basis, and taken to the abattoir for temporary, separate

freezing in the dedicated waste freezer. Mortalities should be exclusively disposed off-site

(off Steinthal), at an appropriately licensed municipal landfill or private treatment/ disposal

facility. Only suitable vehicles and containers should be used to transport waste. Records of

mortalities should be kept.

The safe handling and disposal of mortalities would require coordination with abattoir

(temporary freezing, storage, transport and disposal) and composting (mortalities presented

for composting) activities/ managers prior to stocking. Further co-ordination would be

required for waste tracking – weighing/ recording of mortalities/ mortalities presented at

composting site, and reconciling disposal volumes against landfill invoices.

Note that broiler farming activities could only start once the proposed abattoir has been

rebuilt according to approved plans, and a dedicated separate waste freezer facility has

been provided (as required in terms of the 2006 Poultry Regulations).



48

OBJECTIVE 2

TO ENSURE THE SAFE HANDLING AND DISPOSAL OF BROILER MORTALITIES


• Legal requirements;

• Collection, handling and temporary

storage;

• Delivering to abattoir;

• Waste tracking.


• Suspension of activities;

• Legal prosecution/ fines;

• Pollution of Tierkloof system;

• Localized soil pollution;

• Health impacts on workers and

communities;

• Bio-security;

• Nuisance impacts (odours, flies,

scavengers).


• Failure to meet legal requirements;

• Frequency of collection;

• Period from collection till freezing;

• Bins for temporary storage;

• Safe transport to abattoir;

• Co-ordination of activities between

Managers;

• Dealing with mortalities returned by

composting facility;

• Safe final transport and disposal.

Mitigation: Target/Objective

• Waste management strategy complies with

legal requirements for handling, storage,

transport and disposal;

• Appropriate turnaround times in collection,

transport, freezing and disposal;

• Effective waste tracking system

implemented;

• Effective cooperation between Poultry,

Abattoir and Composting Managers.

MITIGATION: ACTION/CONTROLS

DIRECT

RESPONSIBILITY

TIMEFRAMES

1. Broiler farming operations should only

start once upgrades to the abattoir

have been completed, and provision

STEINTHAL

ESTATE BOARD

(1-3; 9)

1-2. Prior to

stocking.



49

has been made for a suitable, dedicated

waste freezer (see: Abattoir OEMP).

2. The SEB must ensure that clear lines of

communication and co-operation are

established between the relevant

operations managers (Poultry, Abattoir,

Composting), and that all are aware of

provisions applicable to their individual

operations.

3. Unless formally authorized by DEA&DP

and other relevant authorities, no

mortalities may be disposed of on

Steinthal, and may only be disposed of

at an appropriately licensed off-site

facility, municipal or otherwise.

4. Mortalities should be collected on a

daily basis and taken to the abattoir for

freezing on the same day.

5. Mortalities presented for composting

should be redirected to the abattoir for

freezing as soon as possible, ideally on

the day of presentation (see:

Composting OEMP).

6. Bins for collection, temporary storage

and transport should conform to the

requirements of R. 89 of the Poultry

Regulations (R153 of 2006);

7. Temporary storage should conform to

the provisions of the Abattoir OEMP.

8. Vehicles carrying waste to final disposal

must comply with the requirements of

R. 5 (b) and R. 94 of the Poultry

Regulations.

9. Major accidental spills during handling

or transport should be dealt with as

Incidents in terms of NEMA S.30;

10. A waste recording and tracking system

should be implemented to keep track of

mortalities and ensure that waste is

safely stored and disposed of, as

provided for in the Abattoir OEMP.

POULTRY

MANAGER

(4-8; 10)

CO-ORDINATION

WITH ABATTOIR

(4; 6-10)

AND

COMPOSTING

MANAGERS

(5)

REQUIRED

3-10. As long as

operational.


• Daily (presented to abattoir), by weight or

volume, totaled monthly;

• Mortalities returned by composting site, as

above;

• Proof of final disposal (landfill invoices per

volume), volumes totaled monthly.

Key


(KPIs)

1. Waste is exclusively disposed off-site, and

at a suitably licensed waste management

facility.



50

2. Adequate provision is made for sufficient,

undamaged, and legally compliant bins for

temporary storage and transport.

3. Same day turnaround times for collection

and delivery to abattoir adhered to;

4. Clear arrangements for shared

responsibilities are in place between

various operations managers, specifically

with regard to presentation of waste to

abattoir, handling, storage, transport and

disposal (Abattoir manager); as well as

dealing with mortalities presented at the

composting facility (Composting and

Abattoir managers).

5. Waste is handled and stored at the

abattoir in a dedicated waste freezer, in

compliance with the Abattoir OEMP;

6. Vehicles transporting waste conform to

relevant requirements of the Poultry

Regulations.

7. Recording/ documenting requirements are

being met.

Monitoring/ Auditing • Annual auditing against KPIs.

6.6.2. Compostable waste

Broiler farming activities should only start once a WML has been obtained, and the

composting site has been constructed. No broiler waste should composted anywhere else on

Steinthal.

Proper household practices would require the daily removal of surface manure, and the deep

cleaning of broiler houses after each production cycle. Mortalities and inert waste (plastics,

etc) should be carefully screened out prior to the waste being taken to the Estate’s

composting site.

Waste should only be disposed of at the Estate’s licensed composting site. Only suitable

vehicles and containers should be used to transport waste. Records of waste volumes

generated should be kept. Ongoing co-ordination between the Poultry and Composting site

Managers would be required to ensure waste taken to the composting site could be

processed within a 48 hour period, as provided for in the Composting OEMP. Recording with

regard to waste volumes presented for composting should also be co-ordinated.



51

OBJECTIVE 3

TO ENSURE THE PROPER HANDLING OF COMPOSTABLE WASTE


• Legal requirements;

• Compostable resource;

• Collection, handling and temporary storage;

• Delivering to composting site;

• Waste tracking.


• Suspension of activities;

• Legal prosecution/ fines;

• Pollution of Tierkloof system;

• Localized soil pollution;

• Nuisance impacts (odours, flies, scavengers).


• Failure to meet legal requirements;


• Safe transport to composting site;

• Recording of waste volumes;

• Co-ordination of activities between Managers.


• All bedding and manure disposed of by

composting at Estate’s licensed facility;

• Appropriate turnaround times in collection,

transport, and presentation for composting;

• Effective waste tracking system

implemented;

• Effective cooperation between Poultry and

Composting Managers.

MITIGATION:

ACTION/CONTROLS

DIRECT

RESPONSIBILITY

TIMEFRAMES

1. Broiler farming operations should

only start once a WML has been

obtained, the composting facility has

been constructed, and the

Composting OEMP has been

implemented;

2. Clear lines of communication and co-

operation should be established

between the Poultry and

Composting Managers, and both

should be aware of OEMP provisions

applicable to their individual

operations;

STEINTHAL

ESTATE BOARD

(1-3)

1-2. Prior to

stocking.

3-10. As long as

operational.



52

3. Unless formally authorized by

DEA&DP and other relevant

authorities, all compostable material

may only be disposed of by

composting at the Estate’s

composting facility.

4. Surface manure should be collected

on a daily basis and taken to the

composting site at the end of the

working day.

5. Houses should be deep cleaned after

each production cycle;

6. Deep cleanings should be co-

ordinated with composting activities

to ensure no material is left

unprocessed at the composting

facility for longer than 48 hours;

7. Material should be transported to the

composting site in closed plastic

mesh weave bags (to prevent blow-

outs), safely stowed on the bed of a

vehicle with an enclosed loading bed

(to prevent spills);

8. Records of all material presented for

composting should be kept.

POULTRY

MANAGER

(4-8)

CO-ORDINATION WITH

COMPOSTING MANAGER

REQUIRED

(4; 6; 8)


• All material presented for composting (weight

or volume) recorded on presentation at

composting site (totaled monthly).

Key


(KPIs)

1. All bedding and manure is disposed of

exclusively at the Estate’s approved

composting facility;

2. Same day turnaround times for collection and

delivery to composting site for daily and deep

cleaning waste.

3. Adequate provision is made for re-usable

plastic mesh-weave bags to transport waste

in;

4. Provision is made for transport by means of a

vehicle with an enclosed loading bed;

5. Clear arrangements for shared

responsibilities and co-ordination of activities

are in place between Poultry and Composting

managers;

6. Recording requirements are being met.




53

6.6.3. General solid waste and litter management

Operations are not anticipated to generate substantial solid waste volumes. By making use

of re-usable bags and crates, waste generation could be minimized. Appropriate containers

(e.g. drums) should be provided for the temporary on-site storage of all general waste,

including damaged bags, crates and equipment, and items generated by workers (wrappers,

etc). Waste should be collected on a weekly basis and disposed of along with the Estate’s

other general waste for municipal collection.

OBJECTIVE 4

TO MINIMIZE WASTE GENERATION AND ENSURE PROPER STORAGE AND

DISPOSAL


• Waste minimization;

• Housekeeping;

• Temporary storage;

• Central collection and disposal.


• Avoidable waste generation;

• Nuisance impacts (site neatness, litter);

• Irregular disposal;

• Unsafe disposal.


• Wasteful use of crates, bags and other

equipment;

• Adequate provision for collection and neat

temporary storage;


• Co-ordination of activities with central waste

collection on Estate.


• Waste generation is avoided by making use of

reusable crates, bags, containers, etc

• All waste disposed of along with Estate’s general

waste for municipal collection on a weekly basis;

• Effective cooperation between Poultry manager

and Estate’s central disposal function.

MITIGATION:

ACTION/CONTROLS

DIRECT

RESPONSIBILITY

TIMEFRAMES

1. Re-usable crates, bags, etc

should be used for the

transportation of live birds,

manure, etc.

2. Crates, bags, etc should be

taken proper care of to ensure

STEINTHAL

ESTATE BOARD

(5; 6)

POULTRY

1-6. As long as

operational.



54

maximal re-use;

3. Where possible, empty HDPE

containers should be returned to

cleaning supplies service

providers for re-use;

4. Drums or other suitable

containers should be provided

on-site at all houses to ensure

the neat temporary storage of

waste;

5. Waste should be disposed of via

municipal collection along with

the Estate’s waste once a week;

6. Waste too large to handle by

municipal collection must be

disposed of at a licensed

municipal landfill site.

MANAGER

(1-6)

Note that co-ordination with

Estate’s central waste

disposal function is also

required (5; 6).


NONE.

Key


(KPIs)

1. Provision is made for re-usable crates for

transporting live birds;

2. Provision is made for re-usable plastic mesh-

weave bags to transport waste in;

3. Adequate provision for suitable waste bins/ drums

at all broiler houses to ensure neat and litter free

temporary storage;

4. Clear arrangements in place to ensure weekly

collection;

5. No litter or waste visible upon inspection at

broiler house sites.


6.7. WATER USE AND WASTEWATER GENERATION

South Africa is an arid country with a growing population. Global climate change is likely to

exacerbate water scarcity in coming decades in the Western Cape (Western Cape PSDF,

2009; Western Cape Draft Strategic Plan, 2011). Both water demand management and

wastewater quality management are therefore both of key importance for all water users in

South Africa.

The bulk of water use would be associated with drinking water for the broilers.

Approximately 63 m3/a would be needed for cleaning requirements, and generate

wastewater. The bulk of cleaning water use would be associated with deep cleaning events,

approximately 9 per year per broiler house. Treated water would be obtained from the

Estate’s central fresh water system. All broiler waste water would discharged into the

Estate’s ETP for treatment and disposal as irrigation.



55

Broiler farming activities should only start once the proposed ETP upgrades have taken

place, and the WWMP has been implemented.

Please refer to Sections 6.8. and 6.10 of the WWMP for monitoring requirements and

remedial responses with regard to the Tierkloof stream.

OBJECTIVE 5

TO ENSURE THE RESPONSIBLE USE OF WATER

Aspects/ Component/s • Fresh water demand

management;

• Containment and treatment of

wastewater.

Potential Impacts/ Risks • Irresponsible use of scarce

resource;

• Pollution of water resources,

specifically the Tierkloof stream;

• Pollution of local soils (knock-on

effect).

Key Activity/risk sources • Connections to ETP system;

• Leaking pipelines;

• Use of harmful chemicals

• Wasteful cleaning practices.

Mitigation: Target/Objective • All fresh and wastewater pipelines

maintained in leak free condition;

• All water use metered and

recorded;

• All broiler houses discharge only

into ETP system;

• Use of harmful chemicals avoided

in cleaning operations;

• Water wise cleaning practices

implemented.


RESPONSIBLE

TIMEFRAMES

1. Broiler houses 2 and 6 should be connected to

the ETP system,

2. Fresh water pipelines and connections should be

kept in a leak free condition. Pipelines and

connections at the broiler houses should be

regularly checked, on an ongoing basis.

3. Wastewater pipelines and connections should be

kept in a leak free condition. Pipelines and

connections should be regularly checked, on an

SEB

(1-5)

POULTRY

MANAGER

(2-10).

1. Prior to

stocking.

2-5. Infrastructure

checks prior to

stocking.

2-10. As long as

operational.



56

ongoing basis.

4. All broiler houses should be fitted with water

meters, and records of water use should be

kept.

5. Alarms and/or ball valves should be fitted to

prevent wastage.

6. Water using equipment should be regularly

checked to ensure early leak/ wastage detection

and remedial action;

7. MSDS should be checked for all products used in

operations, and only detergents, soaps and

disinfectants which pose no or little harm to the

environment should be used as far as possible.

8. MSDS for all products used must be kept on file.

9. Sodium-based products should be avoided to

keep sodium absorption rate (SAR) levels low.

10. The use of poisons for fly or vermin control

should be avoided through good housekeeping

practices, including proper cleaning and the

storage of feed. Where unavoidable, poisons

should only be applied and managed by an

accredited pest control service provider;

11. Unnecessary water use associating with the

hosing of solid waste to drain should be avoided.

During deep cleaning, floors should be properly

swept and as much solid waste as possible

removed prior to washing.

3 & 6. Wastewater

infrastructure to be

checked for leaks

during deep

cleaning.

7. Product

screening prior to

use.


• Fresh water use (monthly totals);

• MSDS of all chemical and

veterinary products used,

including after use is discontinued

(ongoing);

• Cleaning equipment inventory

checks;

• Infrastructure leaks and

responses, including timeframes.

Key


(KPIs)

1. All broiler houses discharge

exclusively into the ETP system;

2. All broiler houses are fitted with

properly working meters, valves,

etc;

3. Water use indicate stable or

managed downwards trend;

4. Fresh and waste water

infrastructure at all broiler houses

is leak free and undamaged upon

inspection;

5. Sufficient cleaning equipment is

provided and in good working

order;



57

6. MSDS indicates use of non-

harmful cleaning products and

disinfectants;

7. Poisons are exclusively used and

handled as part of a pest control

program provided by an

accredited pest control service

provider;

8. Recording/ documenting

requirements are being met.


6.8. BIO-SECURITY

The effective implementation of bio-security measures is of vital importance to ensure that

operations remain commercially viable, and do not pose a health risk to other poultry

growers, humans, or wild animals.

Failure to maintain healthy flocks or implement bio-security measures are likely to result in

increased mortality rates, affecting commercial viability and waste generation. Preventative

veterinary measures, vector control, access control, proper housekeeping and staff training

and awareness would be key response strategies.

In terms of the Animal Diseases Act, the incidence of a listed controlled disease should be

reported to the PEO immediately, and all directives implemented as required. Failure to

respond to notifiable diseases could endanger the health of Steinthal flocks, and potentially

lead to the outbreak of a disease affecting the broader poultry industry.

OBJECTIVE 6

TO ENSURE APPROPRIATE BIO-SECURITY MEASURES ARE IN PLACE


• Stocking quality control;

• Vaccination and veterinary care;

• Housekeeping and waste management;

• Access control;

• Vector control;

• Unprocessed birds from abattoir;

• Reporting of controlled diseases.


• High mortality rates amongst Steinthal

flocks(viability of operations);

• High rates of unacceptable birds for abattoir

processing (viability of operations);

• Transmission risk to other poultry flocks in

region and elsewhere;



58

• Quarantine and emergency measures imposed

by PEO, including destruction of flocks and

other measures;

• Outbreak of contagious zoonotic disease (e.g.

bird flu);

• Legal persecution (failure to report a

controlled disease).


• Buying in chicks from unsuitable suppliers;

• Insufficient routine veterinary care during

raising, including primary/ preventative care;

• Inadequate housekeeping, specifically waste

management and cleansing;

• Staff biosecurity and awareness;

• Access control to broiler houses;

• Accepting externally grown unprocessed

broilers from abattoir;

• Failure to report a controlled disease.


• Chicks only bought in from accredited

hatcheries;

• Appropriate veterinary care programmes

implemented for all production cycles;

• Solid waste management and cleansing carried

out as provided for in Objectives 2-5 above;

• Adequate provision for disinfecting staff and

visitors;

• Adequate access control and signage provision

at all houses;

• Effective cooperation between Poultry and

Abattoir Managers;

• All incidences of controlled diseases or

significant increases in flock mortality rates

reported, as per legal requirements.

MITIGATION:

ACTION/CONTROLS

DIRECT

RESPONSIBILITY

TIMEFRAMES

1. All broiler houses must be

maintained in a bird and vermin-

proof condition;

2. All broiler houses must be fitted

with locks, and kept locked after

hours;

3. The entrances to all houses should

be fitted with prominent,

weatherproof signs indicating:

- Restricted access area;

- Wash hands and boots before

entering;

STEINTHAL ESTATE

BOARD

(1-3; 16)

1-4: Prior to stocking.

1-13: Ongoing, as

long as operational.



59

4. A qualified veterinarian should be

appointed on retainer to –

• provide applicable immunization

programmes;

• define acceptable mortality rate

(by age group) parameters

• undertake routine inspections;

• respond to veterinary

emergencies/ incidents;

5. Chicks should only be bought in

from accredited hatcheries, and be

accompanied by certification of

immunization;

6. All reasonable steps must be taken

to avoid infection, prevent the

spreading of diseases or parasites,

and eradicating any disease or

parasites;

7. Waste and waste water should be

managed as provided for under

Objectives 2-5 above;

8. An accredited pest control service

provider should be appointed to

implement fly and rodent

management programmes at all the

broiler houses;

9. No worker or visitor may enter or

leave any broiler house without

prior disinfection of shoes and

hands;

10. Workers must take disinfectant

showers on the Estate after deep

cleaning operations and prior to

going home;

11. Workers or visitors who are ill or

pose a transmission risk to birds or

people should not be allowed to

enter broiler houses;

12. Birds raised by external growers

and which could not be processed

by Steinthal abattoir, should be

returned to their places of origin.

Such birds should not be mixed

with Steinthal’s flocks or housed in

Steinthal’s broiler houses.

13. Clear lines of communication and

co-operation should be established

between the Poultry and Abattoir

Managers, and both should be

aware of OEMP provisions

applicable to their individual

operations;

POULTRY

MANAGER

(4-16)

CO-ORDINATION WITH

ABATTOIR MANAGER

REQUIRED

(12-14; 16)



60

14. The Broiler and Abattoir Manager

should share information on an

ongoing basis with regard to the

detection of notifiable diseases and

related matters, and dealing with

unprocessed birds from the

abattoir;

15. Abnormal flock mortality rates or

the suspicion of controlled diseases

should be reported to the PEO: VPH

immediately, as provided for in S.

17 (1-3) of the Animal Health Act,

and responded to in the manner

prescribed by the PEO upon

notification;

16. A copy of the list of notifiable

diseases should be kept, and

regularly updated in accordance

with any applicable Gazetted

Notices in terms of the Animal

Diseases Act as well as the Animal

Health Act.

15. Reported to SEB

and PEO immediately

upon suspicion/

detection.

16. List to be updated

upon notification by

PEO; alternatively at

least once a year,

during annual audit.


• Buy in – numbers (totaled monthly);

• Buy-in – proof of immunization;

• Immunization/ veterinary programmes;

• Mortalities (totaled monthly);

• Veterinary inspections and emergency call-

outs;

• Fly and rodent management programmes;

• All relevant communication with authorities, as

per S24 of the Animal Health Act;

• Updated list of controlled diseases;

• Notifiable mortality rates or diseases reported

in terms of the Animal Diseases Act.

Key


(KPIs)

1. Flock mortality rates are within accepted

parameters;

2. No incidences of notifiable controlled diseases

have occurred;

3. Chicks are bought in from accredited growers

only;

4. Veterinary health measures are in place,

including prescribed immunization and

parasite management programmes;

5. Use is made of a qualified veterinarian to

prescribe programmes, undertake regular

inspections, and respond to veterinary

emergencies;

6. Broiler houses in bird/ vermin proof condition

upon inspection;

7. Houses fitted with lockable access control;



61

8. Visible, clearly legible bio-security signage in

place at all broiler houses;

9. All broiler houses provided with outside taps

and gullies, as well as disinfectant soap, for

boot and hand washing;

10. Provision is made for disinfectant hot showers

for staff on Estate after deep cleaning events;

11. No mature broilers from external growers

(unprocessed by abattoir) are kept in broiler

houses at any given time;


being met.


6. 9. HUMANE TREATMENT OF BIRDS

The humane treatment of animals, including broilers, is legally required in terms of the

Animals Protection Act, from staff and management, as well as the SEB (S.2 of the Act

provides for reasonable prevention). General provisions made under S.1 of the Act include

provision for basic shelter, food, water and kind treatment.

The Animal Health Act makes specific provision for the veterinary care of animals, including

parasite and disease control, as well as the euthanizing of injured birds. Implementation of

these requirements is mandatory.

The 2006 Poultry Regulations provide specific requirements with regard to the capture,

transport and offloading of birds. Implementation of these requirements is mandatory.

OBJECTIVE 7

TO ENSURE THAT BIRDS ARE TREATED IN A HUMANE WAY AT ALL TIMES


• General conditions of keeping, including

access to shelter, food and water;

• Staff treatment of birds;

• Veterinary care, including preventative

measures;

• Conditions of capture, transport and

offloading.


• Unnecessary harming of sentient beings;

• Abnormally high mortality losses;

• Outbreak of diseases;


Key Activity/risk sources • Inadequate provision for shelter, food and



62

water;

• Failure to provide suitable veterinary care;

• Mistreatment by staff;

• Inadequate provision for suitable crates and

vehicles during transport.


• Operations bespeaking of general duty of care

towards broilers and of causing no/

preventing avoidable pain and suffering to

birds;

• Adequate provision for shelter, temperature

control, food and water at all houses;

• Immunization and parasite control

programmes in place;

• Birds captured, transported and offloaded at

abattoir in accordance with provisions of R.

61-64 of the 2006 Poultry Regulations.

MITIGATION:

ACTION/CONTROLS

DIRECT

RESPONSIBILITY

TIMEFRAMES

1. Birds must be kept in compliance

with the provisions of the Animals

Protection Act, including with regard

to the provision of adequate shelter,

protection against the elements, and

provision of adequate food and

water;

2. No birds may be ill-treated, harmed

or terrified during any part of

operations;

3. Adequate provision should be made

for veterinary care, including

preventative measures such as

parasite and disease control;

4. Maimed or diseased birds which

cannot be treated must be

euthanized;

5. The capturing of birds must comply

with the requirements of R.61 of the

Poultry Regulations and the general

provisions under S.1 of the Animals

Protection Act;

6. Appropriate crates and vehicles

must be used for the transport of

birds, as defined in R.63 of the

Poultry Regulations and S. 1 (m) of

the Animals Protection Act;

7. Birds should be treated according to

the provisions of R.64 of the Poultry

POULTRY

MANAGER

(1-6)

Co-ordination with

ABATTOIR MANAGER

1-6. As long as

operational.



63

Regulations during offloading at the

abattoir.

also required

(7).


• Mortalities (totaled monthly).

Key


(KPIs)

1. Broiler houses are maintained in a state which

offers birds adequate protection against sun,

wind and rain;

2. Broiler houses are equipped with sufficient

heaters, feeders and water dispensers in good

working order, namely -

• At least 6-8 x 0.25 liter water dispensers/

100 mature broilers;

• At least one feed dispenser for every 100

mature broilers;

• At least 30 heating lamps at night in

summer and 60 in winter per 100 m²;

3. Roster provision is made for the feeding and

watering of birds for every day of the year;

4. Flock mortality rates within accepted industry

norm;

5. No untreated sick, parasite infested, injured

or maimed birds upon inspection;

6. Crates used for transport to abattoir conform

to requirements of R.63 of the Poultry

Regulations;

7. Vehicles used for transport to abattoir

conform to S. 1 (m) of the Animals Protection

Act.


6.10. NUISANCE RISK MANAGEMENT

Operations during 2007 lead to significant nuisance impacts on neighbors, especially

Schoonderzicht. Inappropriate solid waste management practices lead to odour complaints,

public health concerns from the authorities, and significant friction with neighbors. Failure to

attend to the maintenance and upkeep of broiler houses and wastewater pipelines caused

visual and odour impacts along the Schoonderzicht servitude road. In addition,

inconsiderate use of the road by the former lessee, lead to substantial friction with the

owners of Schoonderzicht.

Provisions are made below to manage potential nuisance impacts, including with regard to

flies and rodents – the former attracted by mortalities and manure, the latter by feed and

mortalities.



64

OBJECTIVE 8

TO ENSURE OPERATIONS DO NOT CAUSE A PUBLIC NUISANCE


• Fly control;

• Rodent control;

• Scavenger control;

• Odours;

• Visual;

• Shared road use.


• Authority Notices and prosecution;

• Public health risk (vectors);

• Friction with neighbors;

• Private litigation.


• Inadequate provision for fly, rodent and

scavenger control;

• Inadequate housekeeping practices, including

regular cleansing;

• Improper collection, handling and disposal of

broiler mortalities;

• Site neatness and litter control;

• Maintenance and upkeep of broiler houses;

• Inconsiderate use of Schoonderzicht servitude

road (upper broiler houses).


• Fly and rodent management programmes in

place;

• Solid waste managed according to provisions

under Objectives 2-4, including with regard to

processing turnaround times;

• Broiler houses maintained in good state of repair,

including neatly painted outsides (upper houses);

• Broiler houses 3-5 screened from neighbors and

servitude road by appropriate plantings;

• Use of Schoonderzicht servitude road does not

result in obstructions.

MITIGATION:

ACTION/CONTROLS

DIRECT

RESPONSIBILITY

TIMEFRAMES

1. Feed should be safely stored to

avoid attracting rodents;

2. In order to discourage flies and

scavengers and avoid odor risks,

STEINTHAL

ESTATE BOARD

(3; 6; 7)

1-9. As long as

operational.



65

mortalities should be handled

and disposed of as provided for

under Objective 2;

3. An accredited pest control service

provider should be appointed to

implement and manage fly and

rodent control programmes at all

the broiler houses;

4. Manure may only be composted

at the Estate’s composting

facility, and should be handled

according to the provisions under

Objective 3;

5. General solid waste should be

handled as provided for under

Objective 4. The broiler house

sites should be kept in a neat and

litter-free condition at all times;

6. Provision for regular maintained

and upkeep of broiler houses

should be made. Broiler houses

3-5 should be kept in a neatly

painted condition;

7. Indigenous, water-wise trees and

shrubs should be established to

the south and north of broiler

houses 3-5, as appropriate, in

order to screen the houses from

receptors along the

Schoonderzicht road and

residential uses on Bella Vista

and Schoonderzicht;

8. No stationary vehicles associated

with operations may at any time

cause an obstruction on

Schoonderzicht access road;

9. All reasonable requests made by

the owners of Schoonderzicht

Estate to co-ordinate times of

use are respected.

POULTRY

MANAGER

(1-5; 8-9)

3. Pest control service

provider to be appointed

prior to stocking to provide

written pest control/

management programmes

to be implemented. .

6-7. Initial maintained and

planting to be done prior to

stocking.


• Public complaints (Complaints Register);

• Any nuisance related correspondence with

authorities;

• Pest control programmes (details);

• Damage and repairs to broiler houses.

Key


(KPIs)

1. No complaints logged in Complaints Register;

2. No nuisance-related Notices, etc. were issued by

authorities;

3. Where complaints or notices have been received,



66

relevant issues were addressed in an appropriate

manner, within a reasonable timeframe;

4. Fly and rodent control programmes implemented

by accredited pest control service provider;

5. Adequate provision is in place for safe storage of

feed to discourage rodents;

6. Sites are neat and tidy upon inspection, with no

visible waste other than in bins;

7. All broiler houses are in a good state op repair;

8. Broiler houses 3-5 are neatly painted;

9. Appropriate indigenous shrubs and trees have

been established to the north and south of

broiler houses 3-5 to offer adequate visual

screening with regard to the Schoonderzicht road

and residential uses on Bella Vista and

Schoonderzicht;

10. Recording/ documenting requirements are being

met.


6.11. STAFF TRAINING

Proper staff training in all applicable operational, OHS and emergency matters is the key to

meeting most other OEMP objectives.

The proper training of all staff prior to performing their duties is required. The Poultry

Manager would be directly responsible for ensuring training. The SEB is responsible for

ensuring the Manager implements the required training.

OBJECTIVE 9

TO ENSURE STAFF IS PROPERLY TRAINED


• Operational tasks;

• Legal requirements and OEMP provisions;

• Health and Safety;

• Responding to emergencies;

• Responding to Incidents.


• Wasteful/ inefficient operations;

• Environmentally harmful/ risky practices;

• Injury to health, maiming or death of

workers;

• Avoidable harm to broilers;

• Harm to adjacent communities or

properties;




67


• Inadequate training in all relevant matters;

• Failure to ensure all staff is trained prior to

undertaking work.


All staff is sufficiently trained to –

• understand key duties and responsibilities;

• perform key operational tasks,

• understand and implement the relevant

provisions of this OEMP;

• understand workplace hazards and

implement safe practices, including the

wearing of protective gear;

• to respond to emergencies, in the manner

outlined in Section 6.15 below.


DIRECT

RESPONSIBILITY

TIMEFRAMES

1. All workers should be trained to

understand and perform their key

operational duties and responsibilities

in an effective manner;

2. All workers should be trained in the

safe and effective use of equipment;

3. All workers should be trained to avoid

key environmental risks, and adhere

to the applicable provisions of this

OEMP;

4. All workers should be trained to

identify key workplace hazards and

implement corresponding safe

practices, including the use of

protective clothing;

5. All workers should be trained to be

able to respond to emergencies,

including with regard to the use of

firefighting equipment, who to

approach in case of a direct first aid

emergency, and following notification

procedures (see Section 6.14 below).

POULTRY

MANAGER

(1-5)

1-5. As long as

operational.


• Training certificates in terms of OHSA

Key


(KPIs)

1. All workers are able to demonstrate –

• A knowledge of key operational aspects;

• A knowledge of key provisions of OEMP



68

Objectives;

• Safe use of equipment;

• Safe handling of potentially harmful

workplace substances;

• Proper use of protective clothing;

• A knowledge of how to respond to

emergencies.


being met.



The OHSA and Regulations impose a number of legal requirements upon the employer,

including with regard to providing a safe working place, training, protective gear (S.8), as

well as the notification of incidents (S.24), and provision of first aid (2005 Draft

Regulations). These provisions are mandatory.

Key OHS aspects addressed below include hazard identification and avoidance, the safe use

of equipment and substances, worker access to adequate safety gear and facilities such as

showers and first aid, and responses to emergencies and notifiable incidents.

OBJECTIVE 10

TO ENSURE OPERATIONS DO NOT AFFECT THE HEALTH & SAFETY OF WORKERS


• General OHSA provisions;

• Training;

• Equipment;

• Use of chemicals and medicines;

• Protective clothing;

• Access to hot showers;

• Access to first aid;

• Notifiable Incidents in terms of OHSA.


• Injury to health, maiming or death of

workers;

• Significant adverse socio-economic impacts

on affected worker households;



• Inadequate staff training in operational as

well as OHS matters (see above);

• Inadequate equipment;

• Inadequate protective clothing/ gear;

• Unsafe use of chemicals, poisons, medicines,



69

etc;

• Inadequate access to first aid;

• Inadequate firefighting equipment;

• Responses to emergencies;

• Failure to report notifiable incidents in terms

of OHSA S.24 and 2005 Draft Regulations.


• Operations bespeak of a general duty of care

exercised towards the health and safety of

staff;

• Staff is trained to perform all operational

tasks in a safe manner;

• Adequate provision is made for all key

equipment;

• Chemicals, medicines and poisons are

handled in a responsible manner;

• Staff is trained to respond to emergencies in

an appropriate manner;

• Adequate provision is made for staff access

to first aid and hot showers.


DIRECT

RESPONSIBILITY

TIMEFRAMES

1. All workers must be trained to safely

perform operational tasks and

respond effectively to emergencies;

2. All workers should be made aware of

key OHS hazards in handling

equipment, chemicals waste, etc;

3. Workers must be provided with

adequate protective clothing and gear

to enable them to perform all their

tasks in a safe manner. Gear would

include gumboots, masks and goggles

(cleaning and handling manure) and

gloves (handling of mortalities);

4. Workers should be provided with

adequate equipment, in proper

functioning order to perform all key

tasks;

5. All hazardous chemicals must be

safely stored away under lock and

key. Only the Poultry Manager or

designated staff should have access.

All substances must be handled

strictly in accordance with the

relevant MSDS;

6. Workers should have access to a

qualified first aid provider during all

POULTRY

MANAGER

(1-9)

STEINTHAL

ESTATE BOARD

(5-7; 9)

1-8. As long as

operational.



70

operational hours. Access may include

access to the first aid worker at the

abattoir, provided bio-security

protocols at the abattoir are not

breeched;

7. Workers should have access to hot

disinfectant showers after all deep

cleaning events. Access may include

access to the abattoir showers,

provided bio-security protocols at the

abattoir are not breeched;

8. An accredited fire fighting service

provider should assess adequacy of

existing high-pressure hoses at broiler

houses, and advise on any additional

equipment required. All additional

equipment provided should include a

maintenance programme provided by

the service provider.

9. Emergencies must be responded to as

provided for under Section 6. 15

below;

10. All notifiable incidents defined in S. 24

of OHSA must be reported, including

serious injury, maiming, exposure to

a known harmful substance, or death.

CO-ORDINATION WITH

ABATTOIR MANAGER

REQUIRED

(6)

10. SEB and

Authorities to be

notified immediately.


• MSDS of all chemical products used on file

(archived once use is discontinued);

• Emergencies in which health and safety of a

worker was endangered (Incidents

Register);

• Notifiable Incidents, in terms of OHSA S.24

Key


(KPIs)

1. No OHS related emergencies of incidents

recorded;

2. All workers trained in OHS and emergency

response matters (Objective 9);

3. Adequate provision is made for sufficient

equipment, in good working order, for staff

to carry out all operational tasks safely and

effectively;

4. Adequate provision is made for protective

clothing and gear, including boots, masks,

goggles and gloves;

5. Chemicals, medicines, etc are safely stored

in a lockable facility with limited access;

6. Staff have access to a qualified first aid

provider on the Estate at all times;

7. Staff have access to disinfecting hot showers

on the Estate after deep cleaning events;



71

8. Staff are able to demonstrate knowledge of

proper emergency procedures to be followed

in case of accident;


being met.


6.13. COMPLAINTS REGISTER

Physical provision should be made for a Complaints Register prior to the start of operations.

The Register must be kept specifically for the Broiler Farming activities, and for as long as

they remain operational.

The Register should include a physical ledger to log public complaints, as well as provision

for the documentation of all e-mails or letters of complaint. The basic details of letters or e-

mailed complaints should be physically entered into the ledger by the Applicant. The ledger

should be kept at the Estate’s administration building, and should be accessible to all

members of the public during normal workday hours.

The Register must record the following:

• Nature of complaint;

• Name of complainant/ authority;

• Date;

• Likely cause;

• Responses to address complaints, outcomes, as well as all relevant timeframes.

� The Register should be included in the annual audit. The audit should assess the

adequacy of recording, responses and timeframes.

6.14. INCIDENTS REGISTER

Physical provision should be made for an Incidents Register prior to the start of operations.

The Register must be kept specifically for the Broiler Farming activities, and for as long as

they remain operational.

In addition to Notifiable Incidents (see S. 6.16 below), the Register should also record the

following:

• Emergencies (Section 6.15. below);

• Serious mistreatment of birds;

• Any major damage to infrastructure;

• Breaches in bio-security;

• Any major equipment failure.

The Register must record at least the following:

• Date;



72

• Nature of incident/ event;

• Notification of authorities, as applicable.

• Details of remedial actions taken, including measures implemented, outcomes and

associated timeframes.

� The Register should be included in the annual audit. The audit should assess adequacy

of recording, as well as effectiveness of measures taken within reasonable timeframes.

6.15. EMERGENCIES

Emergencies are situations which require immediate/ prompt action to prevent or contain

damage to the health and safety of people, the environment and/ or property.

Potential emergency situations would include:

• Fire in broiler houses;

• Worker injury;

• Medical emergency.

Key principles in responding to emergencies are the following:

• The health and life of people should be prioritized over all else;

• All responses should bespeak a general duty of care towards the environment;

• Actions should be co-ordinated between all relevant role-players.

6. 15.1. Provisions for dealing with emergencies

1. Workers should immediately notify the Poultry Manager, proxy, or the SEB of any

emergencies;

2. The Poultry Manager and/ or SEB must co-ordinate an effective and prompt response;

3. The SEB and all operations Managers should have at their immediate disposal a list of all

key relevant emergency telephone numbers, including:

• Of other operations managers/ the SEB;

• The Tulbagh SAPS;

• Witzenberg fire fighting;

• Local ambulance service;

• Neighbours on Schoonderzicht, Witzenberg, and Bella Vista.

4. Key emergency services should be notified immediately in case an ambulance or fire

fighting service, etc is required;

5. In case of fire, use of firefighting equipment should be made, and the SAPS, fire fighting

services and potentially affected neighbors notified;

6. Emergencies should be recorded in the Incidents Register;

7. Emergencies which resulted in Notifiable incidents should also be reported and further

dealt with as provided for in 6.16 below.

6.16. NOTIFIABLE INCIDENTS

The Poultry Manager would be responsible for immediately reporting all Notifiable Incidents

to the SEB. The SEB would be responsible for co-ordinating reporting and remedial

responses.



73

Incidents, as defined in key applicable legislation, must be reported to the relevant

authorities within legally specified timeframes (Table 6.3).

Table 6.3. Notifiable incidents in terms of applicable legislation

INCIDENTS LEGISLATION SECTIONS KEY

AUTHORITIES

TIME

FRAME

• Major spills, leaks

or emissions into

environment;

• Fires

NEMA S.30 • DEA&DP

• DWA

• CWDM: EM

Prescribed

reporting

within 14

days.

• Spills or leak

which may affect

ground or surface

water resources

NWA S. 19-20

• Suspicion of any

chicken infected

with a listed

controlled disease

• major increases in

flock mortality

rates

Animal Diseases

Act

Gazetted

Notices

• DA: VPH

(PEO)

• WCP

Department

of Health

• CWDM: EM

Immediately

upon

detection Animal Health Act S.17. (1)

(c)

• Accident or event

associated with

operations which

lead to death,

maiming, or

serious injury of a

worker.

OHSA S.24 WCP

Department of

Labour

Prescribed

reporting

within 7 days. OHSA General

Administrative

Regulations

(2003)

R. 8

Note that in terms of NEMA and the NWA, the Tulbagh SAPS and fire fighting services have

to be notified immediately in case of fires, major spills, life threatening situations, etc, as

applicable. In addition, all neighbors which may be affected should be notified.

In instances of controlled diseases, the PEO would advise on measures to be implemented.

Note that NEMA 30 (3) would require an initial assessment of scale and significance to be

undertaken prior to authorities being notified, such within 14 days of the Incident having

taken place. Remedial Response Plans (RPP) in terms of NEMA S.30 or the NWA should be

developed according to requirements stipulated by any relevant authority body, and

implemented within specified time frames.

6.17. REMEDIATION RESPONSE STRATEGY

The Remediation Response Strategy (RSS) is triggered by any Incident, as defined in terms

of NEMA S. 30 or the NWA S. 19-20.

Key to the implementation of the RSS is the timeous and suitable notification of appropriate

authorities (see above). Note that in terms of NEMA S. 30 (3) the notification at 14 days

would need to include an initial assessment.



74

6.17.1. Remedial Response Plans

Where indicated as a requirement by the authorities upon reporting, a suitable specialist

should be appointed to prepare an RRP. An RRP should be tailored to the nature of the

Incident/ event, and should further –

• Comply with any requirements specified by the authorities;

• Take into consideration any applicable baseline information (e.g. Tierkloof water

quality);

• Take into consideration information from the initial assessment;

An RRP should at the minimum address the following:

• Identify and assess the extent and significance of damage, pollution, etc.

• Identify likely causes and responsible components.

• Advise on temporary arrangements to prevent further pollution from occurring;

• Advise on operational measures to prevent pollution from recurring;

• Advise on rehabilitation measures as may be applicable;

• Provide monitoring provisions to ensure successful implementation takes place.

RRPs should be only implemented with specialist input, and after proper consultation with

DEA&DP and/ or other key relevant authorities.



75

SECTION 7: AUDITING AND REPORTING

7.1. INTRODUCTION

This section makes provision for auditing, reporting, and responses to key audit findings/

recommendations

7.2. AUDITING

The Steinthal Estate Board (SEB), as the registered landowner, is responsible for carrying

out an annual audit to ensure the ongoing effectiveness of management provisions.

A qualified Environmental Assessment Practitioner (EAP) should be appointed to carry out

the annual audits, as measured from the end of the previous subject auditing period.

Audit reports should be finalized no more than three months after the last day of each audit

period.

7.2.1. Terms of Reference

The Terms of Reference (ToR) should include the following minimum requirements –

1. Auditing and reporting against identified KPIs for Management Objectives 1-10;

2. Auditing and reporting against Complaints and Incidents Registers;

3. Verification that operations are carried out in compliance with all relevant legal

requirements, including any new ones, and if not, advising the SEB on the necessary

steps to be taken;

4. Providing an assessment of overall Compliance against KPI’s;

5. Identify key problem areas, and make recommendations on how to address them;

6. Make recommendations with regard to OEMP updates, including significant changes in

baseline profiles and additional management objectives and monitoring programmes, if

required.

7.2.2. Initial audit

In addition to the ToR under 7.2.1. above, the initial audit should also include an

assessment of adherence to objectives provided for the construction phase (Section 6.4).

Assessment should be based on:

• the Complaints and Incidents Registers;

• building plans signed off by buildings inspector;



76

• records for operations indicate no slaughtering activities commenced prior to initial

requirements set out in Section 6.3. had been met; and

• The absence of building rubble on the site.

7.3. REPORTING

The SEB must make the following provisions for record keeping and disclosure:

1. Keep a complete file of all auditing reports;

2. Upon request, make auditing reports available to authorities.

3. Upon request, provide any authority body with report copies.



77

SECTION 8. UPDATING OF OEMP

8.4. INTRODUCTION

This section contains provisions with regard to the updating of the OEMP in its current and

subsequent formats. Key triggers and responses are outlined.

The Steinthal Estate Board (SEB), as the registered landowner, is responsible for ensuring

the implementation of proper responses.

Amendments to the OEMP should only be carried out by a qualified Environmental

Assessment Practitioner (EAP).

8.5. INITIAL UPDATES

The OEMP in its current format should be updated to reflect the following:

• Any conditions of authorization DEA&DP or any other authority may impose;

• Updated baseline information, as applicable to Section 3, if significantly different to

current.

DEA&DP comments and conditions should be incorporated as soon as such are available.

Baseline data could be updated a year after proposed activities have commenced, and

actual metered volumes and a longer term sampling/ monitoring data record has become

available.

8.6. UPDATES IN RESPONSE TO AUDITS

Recommended OEMP updates specified by the auditing EAP should be implemented within

specified timeframes.

The OEMP should also be updated during the annual audit to reflect any changed legal

requirements, as may be applicable.



78

LIST OF SOURCES

Legislation, norms and policy

• Department of Environmental Affairs (2011). National Waste Management Strategy.

• DWAF (2001). Guidelines for the Handling, Treatment and Disposal of Abattoir Waste.

• GRN 614 of 2012: NEM: WA (59/ 2008): Waste Management and Classification

Regulations.

• GRN 1002 of 2011: National List of Threatened Ecosystems.

• GRN 718 of 2009: NEM: WA (59/2008): List of Waste Management Activities that have,

or are likely to have, an impact on the Environment.

• GRN 153 of 2006: Poultry Regulations in terms of the Meat Safety Act.

• GRN 399 of 2004: Revision of General Authorisations in terms of Section 39 of the

National Water Act, Act 36 of 1998.

• GRN 1039 of 2005: Draft General Health and Safety Regulations in terms of the

Occupational Health and Safety Act 85 of 1993.

• GRN 929 of 2003: Certain Administrative Regulations in terms of the Occupational

Health and Safety Act 85 of 1993.

• GRN 918 of 1999: Regulations Governing General Hygiene Requirements for Food

Premises and the Transport of Food in terms of the Health Act, Act 63 of 1977.

• Republic of South Africa (2008). National Environmental Management: Waste Act (NEM:

WA). Act 59 of 2008.

• Republic of South Africa (2002) Animal Health Act. Act 7 of 2002.

• Republic of South Africa (2000). Meat Safety Act. Act 40 of 2000.

• Republic of South Africa (1998). National Environmental Management Act (NEMA). Act

107 of 1998.

• Republic of South Africa (1998). National Water Act. Act 36 of 1998.

• Republic of South Africa (1993). Occupational Health and Safety Act. Act 85 of 1993.

• Republic of South Africa (1984). Animal Diseases Act. Act 35 of 1984.

• Republic of South Africa (1962). Animals Protection Act. Act 71 of 1962.

• SANS 241 – 2011 Version 1 (2 Parts). South African Standard: Drinking Water.

• Witzenberg Local Municipality (2012) Draft Spatial Development Framework.

Reports and published sources

• Agri-Logix (2010). Steinthal Estate – Water Quality Management Report. Unpublished

report. Prepared on behalf of Steinthal Estate as part of April 2010 S24G submission to

DEA&DP.

• Chief Directorate: Surveys and Mapping (1997). Tulbagh (3319 AC) 1: 50 000.

• Effluent Management (Pty) Ltd (March 2013). Updated Supplementary Waste Water

Quality Management Report. Unpublished report, prepared on behalf of Steinthal

Estate’s 2013 S24G submission to DEA&DP.

• EnviroScientific (2012). Soil and Wastewater Irrigation Report. Unpublished report,

prepared on behalf of Steinthal Estate’s 2013 S24G submission to DEA&DP.

• Mucina and Rutherford (2006). The Vegetation Map of South Africa, Lesotho and

Swaziland. Published by SANBI.

Internet

• www.nda.agric.za/vetweb/Disease Control/List of controlled notifiable Animal Diseases

2007.pdf. (posted 18 June 2010).

• www.sanbi.org/fsp/witzenberg/CBA.asp (Witzbenberg Critical Biodiversity Areas Fine

Scale Map).



79

Personal comments/ e-mails

• Bester, Ms. Linka – e-mail (20/07/09). New Product Development: Elgin Free Range

Chickens)

• Buntman, Mr. Earl (personal comments, 2012, 2013). Effluent Management (Pty) Ltd,

Worcester.

• De Jager, Ms. Elsa (e-mail; 31-07-2012). SA Weather Service, Pretoria.

• Dreyer, Rev Willie (Inputs throughout process 2008-2013). CEO Steinthal Estate and

Children’s Home, Tulbagh.

• Mattheus, Mr. Hauser (inputs throughout 2008). Broiler Farming Manager, Steinthal

2007-2008.

• Olivera, Mr. Paulo (telephonic and e-mail; 08-03-12). Leritage Nouveau Development

Company (Pty) Ltd Owner: Farm Kruys Vallei 187, Tulbagh.

• Pieterse, Dr Elsje (telephonic, June 2009). University of Stellenbosch, Department

Animal Sciences.

• Van Tonder, Mr. Siaas (inputs throughout 2008). Abattoir Manager, Steinthal 2007-

2008.

• Taljaard, Mr. Hennie (e-mail 07-03-12). Head Planner: Witzenberg Local Municipality.