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Annex 5B Air Quality Impact Assessment Report compiled by Airshed Planning Professionals, July 2015

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Annex 5B

Air Quality Impact Assessment Report compiled by Airshed Planning Professionals, July 2015

Environmental Impact Assessment Report for the Kangra Coal (Pty) Ltd Kusipongo Resource Project:

I, Didintle Modisamongwe, declare that-

General declaration:

• •

I act as the independent air quality specialist in the application for a Section 102 amendment application in terms of the National Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act (Act No. 28 of 2002,) as amended I do not have and will not have any vested interest (either business, financial, personal or other) in the undertaking of the proposed activity, other than remuneration for work performed in terms of the Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations, 2014; I have performed the work relating to the application in an objective manner, even if this results in views and findings that are not favourable to the applicant; I declare that there are no circumstances that may compromise my objectivity in performing such work; I have expertise in conducting the specialist report relevant to this application, including knowledge of the Act, regulations and any guidelines that have relevance to the proposed activity; I have complied with the Act, regulations and all other applicable legislation; I have no, and will not engage in, conflicting interests in the undertaking of the activity; I undertake to disclose to the applicant and the competent authority all material information in my possession that reasonably has or may have the potential of influencing - any decision to be taken with respect to the application by the competent authority; and- the objectivity of any report, plan or document to be prepared by myself for submission to the competent authority; All the particulars furnished by me in this form are true and correct; and I realise that a false declaration is an offence .

1,~~ n(o4-(e,orc; Signed Date

Environmental Impact Assessment Report for the Kangra Coal (Pty) Ltd Kusipongo Resource Project:

I, Lucian Burger, declare that-

General declaration:

• •

I act as the independent air quality specialist in the application for a Section 102 amendment application in terms of the National Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act (Act No. 28 of 2002,) as amended I do not have and will not have any vested interest (either business, financial, personal or other) in the undertaking of the proposed activity, other than remuneration for work performed in terms of the Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations, 2014; I have performed the work relating to the application in an objective manner, even if this results in views and findings that are not favourable to the applicant; I declare that there are no circumstances that may compromise my objectivity in performing such work; I have expertise in conducting the specialist report relevant to this application, including knowledge of the Act, regulations and any guidelines that have relevance to the proposed activity; I have complied with the Act, regulations and all other applicable legislation; I have no, and will not engage in, conflicting interests in the undertaking of the activity; I undertake to disclose to the applicant and the competent authority all material information in my possession that reasonably has or may have the potential of influencing - any decision to be taken with respect to the application by the competent authority; and- the objectivity of any report, plan or document to be prepared by myself for submission to the competent authority; All the particulars furnished by me in this form are true and correct; and I realise that a false declaration is an offence .

Environmental Impact Assessment Report for the Kangra Coal (Pty) Ltd Kusipongo Resource Project:

I, Gillian Petzer, declare that-

General declaration:

• I act as the independent air quality specialist in the application for a Section 102 amendment application in terms of the National Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act (Act No. 28 of 2002,) as amended

• I do not have and will not have any vested interest (either business, financial, personal or other) in the undertaking of the proposed activity, other than remuneration for work performed in terms of the Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations, 2014;

• I have performed the work relating to the application in an objective manner, even if this results in views and findings that are not favourable to the applicant;

• I declare that there are no circumstances that may compromise my objectivity in performing such work;

• I have expertise in conducting the specialist report relevant to this application, including knowledge of the Act, regulations and any guidelines that have relevance to the proposed activity;

• I have complied with the Act, regulations and all other applicable legislation;

• I have no, and will not engage in, conflicting interests in the undertaking of the activity;

• I undertake to disclose to the applicant and the competent authority all material information in my possession that reasonably has or may have the potential of influencing - any decision to be taken with respect to the application by the competent authority; and- the objectivity of any report, plan or document to be prepared by myself for submission to the competent authority;

• All the particulars furnished by me in this form are true and correct; and • I realise that a false declaration is an offence.

ao(oi.flo.o '~ Signed Date

Address: 480 Smuts Drive, Halfway Gardens | Postal: P O Box 5260, Halfway House, 1685 Tel: +27 (0)11 805 1940 | Fax: +27 (0)11 805 7010

www.airshed.co.za

Air Quality Impact Assessment for the Development and Operation of a Conveyor Belt, Adit and Associated Infrastructure at the Kangra Coal Kusipongo Coal Reserve, Maquasa West Extension Mining

Right Area

Project done on behalf of ERM Southern Africa (Pty) Ltd

Project Compiled by:

D Modisamongwe

Project Manager

G Petzer

Report No:14ERM15 | Date: April 2015

Project Reviewer

L W Burger

Air Quality Impact Assessment for the Development and Operation of a Conveyor Belt, Adit and Associated Infrastructure at the Kangra Coal Kusipongo Coal Reserve, Maquasa West Extension Mining Right Area

Report No.14ERM15 i

Report Details

Reference 14ERM15

Status Draft

Report Title

Air Quality Impact Assessment for the Development and Operation of a Conveyor Belt, Adit and

Associated Infrastructure at the Kangra Coal Kusipongo Coal Reserve, Maquasa West Extension Mining

Right Area

Date April 2015

Client ERM Southern Africa (Pty) Ltd

Prepared by Didintle Modisamongwe B-Tech (Tshwane University of Technology)

Reviewed by

Gillian Petzer BEng (Chem.) (University of Pretoria)

Lucian Burger, PhD (University of Natal)

Notice

Airshed Planning Professionals (Pty) Ltd is a consulting company located in Midrand, South Africa,

specialising in all aspects of air quality, ranging from nearby neighbourhood concerns to regional air

pollution impacts as well as noise impact assessments. The company originated in 1990 as

Environmental Management Services, which amalgamated with its sister company, Matrix Environmental

Consultants, in 2003.

Declaration

Airshed is an independent consulting firm with no interest in the project other than to fulfil the contract

between the client and the consultant for delivery of specialised services as stipulated in the terms of

reference.

Copyright Warning

Unless otherwise noted, the copyright in all text and other matter (including the manner of presentation) is

the exclusive property of Airshed Planning Professionals (Pty) Ltd. It is a criminal offence to reproduce

and/or use, without written consent, any matter, technical procedure and/or technique contained in this

document.

Air Quality Impact Assessment for the Development and Operation of a Conveyor Belt, Adit and Associated Infrastructure at the Kangra Coal Kusipongo Coal Reserve, Maquasa West Extension Mining Right Area

Report No.14ERM15 ii

Abbreviations

Airshed Airshed Planning Professionals (Pty) Ltd

AQMP Air Quality Management Plan

ASTM American Society of Testing and Materials

ALARP As Low As Reasonably Practicable

AQG Air Quality Guidelines

DEA South African Department of Environmental Affairs

DEAT South African Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism (Currently called DEA)

HPA Highveld Priority Area

GLCs Ground Level Concentrations

LM Local Municipality

MRA Mining Rights Area

ERM ERM Southern Africa (Pty) Ltd

NAAQS National Ambient Air Quality Standards

NEMAQA National Environmental Management Air Quality Act

NPI National Pollutant Inventory

NDCR National Dust Control Regulations – South Africa

SAWS South African Weather Services

US EPA United States Environmental Protection Agency

WHO World Health Organisation

Air Quality Impact Assessment for the Development and Operation of a Conveyor Belt, Adit and Associated Infrastructure at the Kangra Coal Kusipongo Coal Reserve, Maquasa West Extension Mining Right Area

Report No.14ERM15 iii

Symbols and Units

amsl above mean sea level

°C Degrees Celsius

m/s Metres per second

ha Hectares

mg/m²-day Milligram per square metre per day

PM Particulate matter

PM10 Particulate matter with an aerodynamic diameter of 10µm and smaller

PM2.5 Particulate matter with an aerodynamic diameter of 2.5m and smaller

µg/m3 Microgram per cubic metre

km Kilometre

m² Metre squared

tsp Total suspended particles

tpa Tonne per annum

Air Quality Impact Assessment for the Development and Operation of a Conveyor Belt, Adit and Associated Infrastructure at the Kangra Coal Kusipongo Coal Reserve, Maquasa West Extension Mining Right Area

Report No.14ERM15 iv

Glossary

“air pollution” means any change in the composition of the air caused by smoke, soot, dust (including fly ash), cinders,

solid particles of any kind, gases, fumes, aerosols and odorous substances.

“ambient air” is defined as any area not regulated by Occupational Health and Safety regulations.

“atmospheric emission” or “emission” means any emission or entrainment process emanating from a point, non-point or

mobile source resulting in air pollution.

“averaging period” means a period of time over which an average value is determined.

“frequency of exceedance” means a frequency (number/time) related to a limit value representing the tolerated

exceedance of that limit value, i.e. if exceedances of limit value are within the tolerances, then there is still compliance with

the standard.

“MM5” is an acronym for the Fifth-Generation NCAR/Penn State Mesoscale Model, which is a limited-area, non-hydrostatic,

terrain-following sigma-coordinate model designed to simulate or predict mesoscale and regional-scale atmospheric

circulation. Terrestrial and isobaric meteorological data are horizontally interpolated with observations from the standard

network of surface and rawinsonde stations.

“standard” means a measure which have components that define it as a “standard”, which components may include some

or all of the following; limit values, averaging periods, frequency of exceedances and compliance dates.

Air Quality Impact Assessment for the Development and Operation of a Conveyor Belt, Adit and Associated Infrastructure at the Kangra Coal Kusipongo Coal Reserve, Maquasa West Extension Mining Right Area

Report No.14ERM15 v

Non-Technical Summary

Airshed Planning Professionals Pty Ltd (Airshed) was appointed by ERM Southern Africa (Pty) Ltd (ERM) to conduct an

update of an air quality impact assessment for Kangra Coal (Pty) Ltd (Kangra Coal), which was done in 2013 (Burger, 2013).

The purpose of the current study is to evaluate and determine the project’s impact on ambient air quality and to recommend

mitigation measures, where necessary.

The scope of the project was to quantify and simulate the anticipated air pollution emissions using an appropriate

atmospheric dispersion model and thereby asses the significance of the predicted air concentration and deposition using

human health and nuisance criteria; the revised layout of the underground mine access adit and overland convey was

utilised in this regard. The simulation results were also used to establish recommendations and management plans with the

aim to reduce air pollution impacts from the proposed project.

Baseline Assessment

The baseline assessment included a site visit of the surrounding area, with the intention of identifying sensitive receptors

and possible contributing sources to ambient air quality. A review of the legislation and regulations governing atmospheric

emissions level for the protection of human health was also carried out. In order to understand the area’s atmospheric

emission dispersion potential, modelled MM5 meteorological data worth of three years (2012-2014) were analysed.

The baseline assessment indicated that the proposed Kangra Coal project is situated in an area with minimal mining and

industrial activities, with the exception of other Kangra Coal mining operations. The surrounding area is mainly used for

farming and is mostly populated by rural communities, with St Helena approximately 10 km northeast and Driefontien

approximately 12 km east of the project site. The surrounding farming communities are considered sensitive receptors from

an air quality perspective; this is due to their location in relation to the project site and the likelihood that they will be

adversely affected by the project’s resultant impacts.

The area is characterised by varying topography, with the northern and eastern parts having a relatively gentle slope.

Mountains within the study area include KuSipongo and Mbabala Kop located west and south-east of the project site

respectively.

Sources of emissions present in the area which may contribute to cumulative impacts include, tree plantations, wind-blown

dust from open areas, vehicle entrainment on unpaved and paved roads, vehicle exhaust emission and biomass burning.

Meteorological data analysis indicated that the area is dominated by westerly and easterly winds, with the north and south

directions receiving little airflow. Temperatures range between a minimum of -1°C in June and July, and a maximum of 30°C

in November; whilst rainfall is experienced in the summer months, with a peak in December and January.

Kangra Coal has a dustfall monitoring network consisting of six single dust buckets at Panbult Siding and five single buckets

at Maquasa East Shaft. The sampling period for the current dust buckets at Kangra Coal Mine is generally 14 days. Dustfall

results for the period January 2009 to February 2011 indicated that deposition rates at Panbult Siding and at the Maquasa

East mine sites were occasionally in non-compliance with the relevant regulations.

Impact Assessment

Air Quality Impact Assessment for the Development and Operation of a Conveyor Belt, Adit and Associated Infrastructure at the Kangra Coal Kusipongo Coal Reserve, Maquasa West Extension Mining Right Area

Report No.14ERM15 vi

Three phases of the project were taken into account – construction, operational and decommissioning phases. The

construction phase focused on emissions as a result of the establishment of the access adit and associated infrastructure,

whereas the operational phase was primarily aimed at quantifying emissions as a result of the transportation of coal from the

proposed mine shaft to the Maquasa West. A qualitative study was done for the decommissioning phase.

A comprehensive emissions inventory was compiled based on the revised mine layout, supplied mining rates and

information provided by ERM. In the quantification of emissions the National Pollutant Inventory (NPI) and United States

Environmental Protection Agency (US-EPA) emission factor document were utilised.

Particulates represent the main pollutant of concern when assessing mining operations. Airborne particulates are divided

into different particle size categories with TSP (total suspended particulates, typically less than 100m) associated with

nuisance impacts and the finer fractions of PM10 (particulate matter with an aerodynamic diameter of less than 10m) and

PM2.5 (particulate matter with an aerodynamic diameter of less than 2.5m) linked with potential health impacts. PM10 is

primarily associated with mechanically generated dust.

Dispersion modelling was used to simulate the potential for impacts on the surrounding environment and human health.

Dispersion models do not contain all the features of a real system but hold the feature of interest for management issues or

scientific problems to be solved. For the current project the US EPA AERMOD atmospheric dispersion modelling system

was utilised.

The analysis of the modelling results comprised the comparison of the predicted PM10 and PM2.5 concentrations and dustfall

levels against the National Ambient Air Quality Standards and National Dust Control Regulations. This was to determine

compliance and the potential for air quality impacts.

The emission inventory indicated that construction emissions are highly influenced by the size of the area constructed and

the duration of the operation; this therefore means that large areas constructed over an extended period of time are likely to

result in high emissions. Wind-blown dust from the conveyor was the biggest contributor to operational phase emissions,

with material handling operations having only 2% contribution across all inventoried pollutants. Emissions during the

decommissioning phase are likely to stem from vehicle entrainment on roads, wind-blown dust from exposed stockpiles and

the demolition of structures.

Simulated ground level concentrations (GLCs) as a result of the construction phase indicate that PM10 impacts are likely to

adversely affect sensitive receptors located 1 km away from the project site, more so in the south and north-west direction.

Impacts are expected to have a short duration due to the timelines of the phase.

Simulated dustfall rates resultant impacts, though still impacting on a few receptors, showed a reduced area of impact (~200

from the project site) in comparison to PM10 impacts.

Overall, the construction phase unmitigated impacts are expected to be major in significance. To ensure minimal impacts on

both human health and the environment proper and effective mitigation measures should be put in place, this will reduce the

significance of the impacts to moderate.

Simulated GLCs as a result of the operational phase indicate that resultant impacts are mostly localised - within a 300 m

radius; with areas of non- compliance more apparent around operational areas such as conveyor transfer points. Dustfall

rates indicated a similar pattern, with localised impacts.

Air Quality Impact Assessment for the Development and Operation of a Conveyor Belt, Adit and Associated Infrastructure at the Kangra Coal Kusipongo Coal Reserve, Maquasa West Extension Mining Right Area

Report No.14ERM15 vii

Operational phase’s pre-mitigation impacts are in general expected to have a major significance, the implementation of

recommended mitigation measures will however result in moderate significance for the project.

Decommissioning phase impacts are likely to be moderate pre mitigation and minor post mitigation; this is because most

activities would have ceased.

Recommendations

Due to the large number of sensitive receptors around the project site, it is recommended that mitigation measures of air

emissions sources be employed; this may include the use of water sprays on temporary roads and chemicals on permanent

roads during the construction phase. Chemicals have the advantage of providing higher control efficiency (up to 90%); less

frequent applications required and save on water usage.

For the operational phase, fitting the conveyor with side coverings and a roof would minimise emissions. Control efficiency

for conveyors with roofs and covering on one side is given as 65%. Material handling emissions may be mitigated by

reducing the drop heights at transfer points.

It is further recommended that continuous PM10 sampling be implemented and the current dustfall network be expanded to

include sites around the construction area and proposed conveyor. Monitoring will serve to verify modelling results and the

efficiency of mitigation measures, as well as ensure that unacceptable impacts are not arising at nearby sensitive receptors.

Air Quality Impact Assessment for the Development and Operation of a Conveyor Belt, Adit and Associated Infrastructure at the Kangra Coal Kusipongo Coal Reserve, Maquasa West Extension Mining Right Area

Report No.14ERM15 viii

Table of Contents

1 Introduction.................................................................................................................................................................... 1-1

1.1 Project Activities Description from an Air Quality Perspective ............................................................................. 1-1

1.2 Terms of Reference ............................................................................................................................................. 1-3

1.3 Approach and Methodology ................................................................................................................................. 1-4

Baseline Impact Assessment .......................................................................................................................... 1-4 1.3.1

Impact Assessment ........................................................................................................................................ 1-4 1.3.2

1.4 Assumptions, Exclusions and Limitations ............................................................................................................ 1-5

1.5 Report Outline ..................................................................................................................................................... 1-5

2 REGULATORY REQUIREMENTS AND ASSESSMENT CRITERIA ............................................................................ 2-1

2.1 Ambient Air Quality Standards for Criteria Pollutants .......................................................................................... 2-1

2.2 National Dust Control Regulations ...................................................................................................................... 2-2

2.3 Air Quality Management Plans ............................................................................................................................ 2-3

3 DESCRIPTION OF THE RECEIVING ENVIRONMENT ............................................................................................... 3-1

3.1 Topography and Environmental Setting .............................................................................................................. 3-1

3.2 Air Quality Sensitive Receptors ........................................................................................................................... 3-2

3.3 Atmospheric Dispersion Potential ........................................................................................................................ 3-4

Surface Wind Field ......................................................................................................................................... 3-4 3.3.1

Temperature ................................................................................................................................................... 3-6 3.3.2

Rainfall ............................................................................................................................................................ 3-7 3.3.3

Atmospheric Stability ...................................................................................................................................... 3-8 3.3.4

3.4 Status Quo Ambient Air Quality ......................................................................................................................... 3-11

Qualitative Assessment of Regional Sources of Pollution ............................................................................ 3-11 3.4.1

3.5 Measured Ambient Air Quality Data within the Project Site ............................................................................... 3-16

Highveld Priority Area ................................................................................................................................... 3-16 3.5.1

Kangra Coal Mine Monitoring ....................................................................................................................... 3-17 3.5.2

4 IMPACT OF PROPOSED PROJECT ON THE RECEIVING ENVIRONMENT ............................................................. 4-1

4.1 Atmospheric Emissions Inventory ....................................................................................................................... 4-1

Air Quality Impact Assessment for the Development and Operation of a Conveyor Belt, Adit and Associated Infrastructure at the Kangra Coal Kusipongo Coal Reserve, Maquasa West Extension Mining Right Area

Report No.14ERM15 ix

Construction Phase ........................................................................................................................................ 4-1 4.1.1

Operational Phase .......................................................................................................................................... 4-2 4.1.2

Decommissioning Phase ................................................................................................................................ 4-4 4.1.3

4.2 Simulation Results ............................................................................................................................................... 4-5

Construction Phase ........................................................................................................................................ 4-5 4.2.1

Operational Phase ........................................................................................................................................ 4-10 4.2.2

Decommissioning Phase .............................................................................................................................. 4-16 4.2.3

4.3 Analysis of Impacts on the Environment ........................................................................................................... 4-16

Predicted Impacts on Vegetation and Animals ............................................................................................. 4-16 4.3.1

4.4 Impact Ranking .................................................................................................................................................. 4-17

5 RECOMMEDED AIR QUALITY MEASURES ............................................................................................................... 5-1

5.1 Source Ranking ................................................................................................................................................... 5-1

Source Ranking by Emissions ........................................................................................................................ 5-1 5.1.1

Source Ranking by Impacts ............................................................................................................................ 5-1 5.1.2

5.2 Source Specific Recommended Management an Mitigation Measures .............................................................. 5-2

Construction Phase ........................................................................................................................................ 5-2 5.2.1

Operational Phase .......................................................................................................................................... 5-2 5.2.2

Decommissioning Phase ................................................................................................................................ 5-3 5.2.3

5.3 Performance Indicators ....................................................................................................................................... 5-6

Ambient Air Quality Monitoring ....................................................................................................................... 5-6 5.3.1

Visual Inspection ............................................................................................................................................. 5-8 5.3.2

Community Complaints ................................................................................................................................... 5-8 5.3.3

6 Conclusions and Recommendations ............................................................................................................................. 6-1

6.1 Main Findings ...................................................................................................................................................... 6-1

Baseline Environment ..................................................................................................................................... 6-1 6.1.1

Air Quality Impact Assessment ....................................................................................................................... 6-1 6.1.2

Monitoring ....................................................................................................................................................... 6-1 6.1.3

6.2 Conclusion ........................................................................................................................................................... 6-1

6.3 Recommendations ............................................................................................................................................... 6-1

Air Quality Impact Assessment for the Development and Operation of a Conveyor Belt, Adit and Associated Infrastructure at the Kangra Coal Kusipongo Coal Reserve, Maquasa West Extension Mining Right Area

Report No.14ERM15 x

7 References .................................................................................................................................................................... 7-1

8 Appendices.................................................................................................................................................................... 8-1

8.1 Appendix A: Fine Particulates Monitors ............................................................................................................... 8-1

Filter-based Monitors ...................................................................................................................................... 8-1 8.1.1

Non-filter-based Monitors ............................................................................................................................... 8-4 8.1.2

Data Transfer Options .................................................................................................................................... 8-5 8.1.3

8.2 Appendix B: Emission Factors and Equations ..................................................................................................... 8-6

General Construction Activities ....................................................................................................................... 8-6 8.2.1

Material Handling ............................................................................................................................................ 8-6 8.2.2

Overland Conveyor System ............................................................................................................................ 8-7 8.2.3

Air Quality Impact Assessment for the Development and Operation of a Conveyor Belt, Adit and Associated Infrastructure at the Kangra Coal Kusipongo Coal Reserve, Maquasa West Extension Mining Right Area

Report No.14ERM15 xi

List of Tables

Table 2-1: National ambient air quality standards................................................................................................................... 2-2

Table 2-2: National dust control regulations ........................................................................................................................... 2-3

Table 3-1: Atmospheric stability classes ................................................................................................................................. 3-8

Table 4-1: Kangra Coal source parameters and assumptions ................................................................................................ 4-3

Table 4-2: Kangra Coal project emission rates (tpa) .............................................................................................................. 4-4

Table 4-3: Kangra Coal project construction phase PM10 maximum GLCs at identified sensitive receptors .......................... 4-9

Table 4-4: Kangra Coal project operational phase PM10 maximum GLCs at identified sensitive receptors ......................... 4-12

Table 4-5: Kangra Coal project operational phase PM2.5 maximum GLCs at identified sensitive receptors......................... 4-15

Table 4-6: Impact characteristic terminology ........................................................................................................................ 4-17

Table 4-7: Designation definitions ......................................................................................................................................... 4-17

Table 4-8: Definition of likelihood designations..................................................................................................................... 4-18

Table 4-9: Impact significance .............................................................................................................................................. 4-20

Table 4-10: Context of significance ....................................................................................................................................... 4-20

Table 4-11: Kangra Coal mine impact rating for the construction phase (pre-mitigation) ..................................................... 4-21

Table 4-12: Kangra Coal mine impact rating for the construction phase (post-mitigation) ................................................... 4-22

Table 4-13: Kangra Coal mine impact rating for the operational phase (pre-mitigation) ...................................................... 4-23

Table 4-14: Kangra Coal mine impact rating for the operational phase (post-mitigation) ..................................................... 4-24

Table 4-15: Kangra Coal mine impact rating for the decommissioning phase (pre-mitigation) ............................................ 4-25

Table 4-16: Kangra Coal mine impact rating for the decommissioning phase (pre-mitigation) ............................................ 4-26

Table 5-1: Summary of conveyor belt emission reduction (NPI 2001) .................................................................................... 5-2

Table 5-2: Kangra Coal project impacts mitigation measure per source group and project phase ........................................ 5-4

Table 8-1: Comparison of TEOM and BAM performance ....................................................................................................... 8-3

Air Quality Impact Assessment for the Development and Operation of a Conveyor Belt, Adit and Associated Infrastructure at the Kangra Coal Kusipongo Coal Reserve, Maquasa West Extension Mining Right Area

Report No.14ERM15 xii

List of Figures

Figure 1-1: Location of mine site infrastructure....................................................................................................................... 1-2

Figure 3-1: Topography of the area surrounding the project site ............................................................................................ 3-1

Figure 3-2: Location of sensitive receptors in the study area. ................................................................................................ 3-2

Figure 3-3: Rural farming community in close proximity to the proposed site ........................................................................ 3-3

Figure 3-4: Closest formal residential area (St. Helena) less than 10km north-east of the proposed project site .................. 3-3

Figure 3-5: Period, day-time and night-time wind roses (MM5 data 2012 – 2014) ................................................................. 3-5

Figure 3-6: Seasonal wind roses (MM5 data 2012 – 2014) .................................................................................................... 3-6

Figure 3-7: Monthly temperature pattern for the project site (MM5 Data: 2012 to 2014) ........................................................ 3-7

Figure 3-8: Rainfall pattern for the project site (MM5 Data: 2012 to 2014) ............................................................................. 3-8

Figure 3-9: Diurnal variation in atmospheric stability as described by Monin-Obukhov length and mixing height (MM5 Data

2012– 2014) .......................................................................................................................................................................... 3-10

Figure 3-10: Existing overburden and discard dumps at the existing Kanga Coal mine ....................................................... 3-11

Figure 3-11: Tree plantations between the proposed project site and Panbult Siding.......................................................... 3-12

Figure 3-12: Cultivation of land in the vicinity of the project site ........................................................................................... 3-13

Figure 3-13: Exposed agricultural areas prone to wind erosion ............................................................................................ 3-13

Figure 3-14: Dust mitigation (water spraying) on public roads to Panbult Siding ................................................................. 3-14

Figure 3-15: Mud Carry-over from Panbult Siding onto Public Road .................................................................................... 3-15

Figure 3-16: Modelled frequency of exceedance of 24-hour ambient PM10 standards in the HPA, indicating the air quality

Hot Spot areas (DEA 2011). ................................................................................................................................................. 3-17

Figure 3-17: Dustfall monitoring network at Panbult Siding .................................................................................................. 3-18

Figure 3-18: Dustfall monitoring network at Kangra Coal mine ............................................................................................ 3-18

Figure 4-1: Kangra Coal project simulated PM10 annual average GLCs (construction phase) ............................................... 4-7

Figure 4-2: Kangra Coal project simulated PM10 NAAQS daily frequency of exceedance (construction phase) .................... 4-7

Figure 4-3: Kangra Coal project simulated dustfall rates (construction phase) ...................................................................... 4-8

Figure 4-4: Kangra Coal project simulated PM10 annual average GLCs (operational phase) .............................................. 4-11

Figure 4-5: Kangra Coal project simulated PM10 NAAQS daily frequency of exceedance (operational phase) ................... 4-11

Figure 4-6: Kangra Coal project simulated PM2.5 annual average GLCs (operational phase) .............................................. 4-13

Figure 4-7: Kangra Coal project simulated PM2.5 NAAQS daily frequency of exceedance (operational phase)................... 4-13

Air Quality Impact Assessment for the Development and Operation of a Conveyor Belt, Adit and Associated Infrastructure at the Kangra Coal Kusipongo Coal Reserve, Maquasa West Extension Mining Right Area

Report No.14ERM15 xiii

Figure 4-8: Kangra Coal project simulated dustfall rates (operational phase) ...................................................................... 4-14

Figure 5-1: Kangra Coal mine indicative monitoring network ................................................................................................. 5-7

Figure 8-1: Partisol-Plus Sequential Air Sampler .................................................................................................................... 8-1

Figure 8-2: TEOM sampler linked to the ACCUTM conditional sampling system .................................................................... 8-4

Air Quality Impact Assessment for the Development and Operation of a Conveyor Belt, Adit and Associated Infrastructure at the Kangra Coal Kusipongo Coal Reserve, Maquasa West Extension Mining Right Area

Report No.14ERM15 1-1

1 INTRODUCTION

Airshed Planning Professionals Pty Ltd (Airshed) was appointed by ERM Southern Africa (Pty) Ltd (ERM) to conduct an

update of an air quality impact assessment for Kangra Coal (Pty) Ltd (Kangra Coal) which was done on 2013 (Burger,

2013). The purpose of the current study is to evaluate and determine the project’s impact on ambient air quality and to

recommend mitigation measures, where necessary.

In the original project Kangra Coal considered expanding their coal mining operations at the Savmore Colliery, located within

the Mkhondo and Dr Pixley Ka lsaka Seme Local Municipalities (which form part of the Gert Sibande District Municipality) in

Mpumalanga, which is approximately 51 km west-south-west from Piet Retief and 64 km south east from Ermelo.

The expansion was proposed to include the Kusipongo coal resource, situated to the west of existing operations. The

proposed project in the Mining Right Application (MRA) was restricted to underground mining and some surface

infrastructure to support this underground expansion. Although there were a number of adits, the assessment focused only

on Adit A, which would have been the entrance to the proposed underground mine. The Adit A footprint would’ve also

included offices, workshops, stores, change house, silos, etc. In addition to Adit A, the assessment also included the impact

of emissions from an overland conveyor system, which would have been used to transport coal from the underground

operations at the proposed Adit A to the existing Maquasa West Adit conveyor system.

The MRA for the Kusipongo reserve was however rejected by the Department of Mineral Resources (DMR); Kangra Coal

subsequently revised their layout to move the surface infrastructure to an area within the Maquasa West Extension. The

current project therefore focuses on undertaking an air quality impact assessment with the revised layout, as well as Section

102 amendment related to establishing the surface infrastructure within the existing mining right area on Maquasa West

Extension.

1.1 Project Activities Description from an Air Quality Perspective

Mining operations at the proposed Kangra coal mine will be underground and coal will be taken out via the proposed adit,

connected to the existing underground operations. The adit will also supply the main fresh air ventilation intake and exhaust

and is located within the existing Maquasa West Extension (Figure 1-1).

Emissions are expected to emanate from the construction of the adit and the transportation of coal from the underground

mine via the proposed overland conveyor.

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Figure 1-1: Location of mine site infrastructure

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1.2 Terms of Reference

The approach to the air quality study consists of three phases. These are:

Baseline evaluation:

o Analysis of the atmospheric dispersion potential of the area based on available meteorological,

topographical and land-use data.

o A desktop study of available ambient air quality data to establish existing air quality.

o A regulatory review, including a review of ambient air quality criteria and emission standards applicable

to the project.

o Identification of sensitive receptors in the vicinity of the proposed mine.

Impact assessment:

o The establishment of a comprehensive emissions inventory based on all mining, processing and

ancillary operations;

o The development of an atmospheric dispersion model for the mining and processing operations,

o An inhalation health risk screening study (does not include a toxicological review) and compliance

impact assessment based on:

Atmospheric dispersion model results;

An internationally recognised, defendable, repeatable and sound risk assessment

methodology; and

Appropriate ambient air quality and inhalation health risk criteria.

Management Plan:

o Estimation of emission control efficiencies required for each significant source as quantified and

simulated in the air quality assessment;

o Identification of suitable pollution abatement measures able to realize the required emission control

efficiencies, and possible contingency measures;

o Specification of source-based performance indicators, targets, and monitoring methods applicable for

each source;

o Identify receptor-based performance indicators and targets (monitoring network design with specific

attention to be given to the location and type of PM10 sampler), to fulfill the following functions:

on-going characterisation of ambient air quality levels;

demonstrate the level of compliance with relevant air quality guidelines and standards, and

deposition levels applicable to South Africa

Track progress of emission reduction measures being implemented; and,

Provide early warning of adverse external impacts.

o Recommendations pertaining to record keeping, environmental reporting and community liaison.

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1.3 Approach and Methodology

In assessing atmospheric impacts from the proposed mining activities, an emissions inventory was undertaken, atmospheric

dispersion modelling conducted and predicted air pollutant concentrations evaluated. The phases of the impact assessment

are described in the following subsections.

Baseline Impact Assessment 1.3.1

The baseline assessment summarises preliminary findings about the study and its surrounding and forms part of an overall

air quality impact assessment. The assessment for the current project included the identification of sensitive receptors,

project site atmospheric dispersion potential and a status quo on existing ambient air quality.

In order to understand the dispersion of pollutants to the atmosphere it is important to have a clear understanding of the

driving forces, in this case the regional climate and meteorology. The project utilised three years (2012-2014) worth of

modelled MM5 meteorological data obtained from Lakes Environmental, since no on-site meteorological data were

available.

Typically, baseline evaluations include the analysis of background ambient concentrations and dustfall rates. Monitoring

ambient dustfall data from the existing Kangra Coal Mine are included in this regard.

In the evaluation of ambient air quality impacts, reference was made to the South African National Ambient Air Quality

Standards (NAAQS) and National Dustfall Control Regulation (NDCR).

Impact Assessment 1.3.2

The establishment of an emissions inventory forms the basis for the impact assessment. The emissions inventory comprises

the identification of sources of emission, and the quantification of each source’s contribution to ambient air pollution

concentrations.

Emissions were quantified through the use of the predictive emission factors published by the US EPA (US EPA, 1996) and

National Pollutant Inventory (NPI) (NPI, 2012). An emission factor is a representative value that attempts to relate the

quantity of a pollutant released to the atmosphere with an activity associated with the release of that pollutant. Detailed

information pertaining to these emission factors is provided in Appendix B.

Particulate matter is the main pollutant of concern from mining operations. In the estimation of particulate emissions and the

simulation of patterns of dispersion, a distinction is made between Total Suspended Particulate (TSP - often defined as

particulate matter less than 75 µm in size), thoracic particulates (PM10 - particulate matter with an aerodynamic diameter of

less than 10 µm) and respirable particulates (PM2.5 - particulate matter with an aerodynamic diameter of less than 2.5 µm).

TSP is of interest due to its implications in terms of nuisance from dustfall, whereas PM10 and PM2.5 are of concern due to

their potential for human health effects.

Dispersion models compute ambient concentrations as a function of source configurations, emission strengths and

meteorological characteristics, thus providing a useful tool to ascertain the spatial and temporal patterns in ground level

concentrations (GLCs) arising from the emissions of various sources.

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Gaussian plume models are best used for near-field applications where the steady-state meteorology assumption is most

likely to apply. The US EPA Regulatory AERMOD model was used in this study as recommended by the Regulations

Regarding Air Dispersion Modelling (Government Gazette No. 37804 of 11 July 2014).

Simulated GLCs and dustfall rates were assessed based on consideration of the type, extent, duration, scale and frequency

of the impacts.

1.4 Assumptions, Exclusions and Limitations

As a minimum, one year’s historical hourly average meteorological data is required to describe the dispersion

potential of the study area, and therefore the ability to predict the distribution of air pollutants. A year’s continuous

data is required to allow the inclusion of seasonal differences. The DEA Regulations Regarding Air Dispersion

Modelling specifies that a minimum of three years of data be used of which the most recent year in the dataset

must be within three years of the study. The current study utilised three years (2012-2014) of modelled MM5

meteorological data from Lakes Environmental. Modelled data was in used in place of measured data as the

closest South African Weather Services (SAWS) weather station at Piet Retief closed in 2006.

Only routine emissions from the proposed mining operations were included, no information was available

regarding upset conditions. Upset conditions are when emissions are emitted to air without any control.

The quantification of sources of emissions was limited to the scope of the project, which was to assess emission

from the construction of the access adit and associated overland conveyor.

The dispersion model cannot compute real-time mining and production processes; and planned throughputs were

therefore used. Operational locations and periods were selected to reflect the representative worst case

scenarios.

Although the main tasks of the construction phase were provided, the detail required to estimate emissions from

every activity were insufficient to allow the establishment of an accurate emissions inventory. The construction

impacts were therefore based on an area-wise emission factor, rather than activity-based.

The decommissioning phase of the project was assessed qualitatively.

1.5 Report Outline

The regulatory requirements and impacts assessment criteria are discussed in Section 2. A description of the receiving

environment is provided in Section 3, including the on-site meteorological conditions. Section 4 comprises methods adopted

in the establishment of the emissions inventory and the dispersion simulations results. Proposed air quality mitigation

measures are provided in Section 5 in the form of an air quality management plan. The main findings, conclusion and

recommendations are provided in Section 6, with the reference list and appendices provided in Section 7 and 8 respectively

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2 REGULATORY REQUIREMENTS AND ASSESSMENT CRITERIA

Prior to discussing the potential impact of Kangra Coal on the atmospheric environment, reference needs to be made to the

environmental regulations governing the impact of such operations i.e. emission standards and ambient air quality

standards.

Air quality guidelines and standards are fundamental to effective air quality management, providing the link between the

source of atmospheric emissions and the user of that air at the downstream receptor site. Ambient air quality standards and

guideline values indicate safe daily exposure levels for the majority of the population, including the very young and the

elderly, throughout an individual’s lifetime. Air quality guidelines and standards are normally given for specific averaging or

exposure periods.

This section summarises national legislation pertaining to air quality for sources and pollutants relevant to the current study.

2.1 Ambient Air Quality Standards for Criteria Pollutants

The National Environmental Management Air Quality Act (Act No. 39 of 2004, Government Gazette No. 27318) (NEMAQA)

commenced on the 11th of September 2005 but only came into full operation on the 1st of April 2010. NEMAQA has the aim

of protecting the environment and human health through acceptable measures of pollution prevention, reduction and

management. The Act also puts emphasis on provincial and local government to enforce or implement it and also to design

their own air quality management plans in accordance with the structure stipulated in the Act. Local and provincial

government are tasked with the responsibility of implementing atmospheric emission licensing, management and operation

of monitoring networks and designing and implementing emission reduction strategies.

On the 24th of December 2009 the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (Government Gazette No. 32816) (NAAQS) were

published in accordance with NEMAQA. The standards are used to regulate the concentration of a substance that can be

tolerated without any environmental deterioration.

The standards have been defined for different air pollutants with different limits based on the toxicity of the pollutants to the

environment and humans, number of allowable exceedences and the date of compliance of the specific standard. Pollutants

that are included in the standard are sulphur dioxide, nitrogen dioxide, PM10, PM2.5, ozone, benzene and lead. The focus of

this project is on particulates hence only standards for PM10 are shown in Table 2-1, including standards for PM2.5 published

on the 29th of July 2012.

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Table 2-1: National ambient air quality standards

Pollutant Averaging Period Limit Value (µg/m³) Frequency of

Exceedence Compliance Date

PM10

24 hour 75 µg/m3 4

2015

1 year 40 µg/m3 0

PM2.5

24 hour 65 µg/m3 4 Immediate –2015

24 hour(a) 40 µg/m3 4 2016 – 2029

24 hour 25 µg/m3 4 2030

1 year 25 µg/m3 0 Immediate –2015

1 year(a) 20 µg/m3 0 2016 – 2029

1 year 15 µg/m3 0 2030

Notes:

(a) Used in the assessment

2.2 National Dust Control Regulations

The environmental impacts of dust emissions can cause widespread public concern about soiling of property and

environmental degradation. The nature and extent of the problem, and the significance of the effects usually depend on the

nature of the source, sensitivity of the receiving environment and on individual perceptions (i.e. the level of tolerance to dust

deposition could vary significantly between individuals; generally people living in rural areas may have a high level of

tolerance for the dust produced by farming activities such as ploughing, but a much lower tolerance level for dust from

mining operations).

The potential health effects of dust are closely related to particle size. Suspended particles are typically in the size range

from less than 0.1 microns up to about 100 microns. Larger airborne particles of up to 500 microns may be possible,

particularly during strong wind conditions. Human health effects of airborne dust are mainly associated with PM10, which are

small enough to be inhaled. Nuisance effects can be caused by particles of any size, but are most commonly associated

with those larger than 20 microns.

Dustfall as assessed in this report is for nuisance impact and not for inhalation health impact. The National Dust Control

Regulations (Government Gazette No. 36974) (NDCR) were published on 1 November 2013. The purpose of the regulations

is to prescribe general measures for the control of dust in all areas including residential and light commercial areas.

The acceptable dustfall rates as measured (using ASTM D1739:1970 or equivalent) at and beyond the boundary of the

premises where dust originates are given in Table 2-2.

In addition to the dustfall limits, the NDCR prescribe monitoring procedures and reporting requirements.

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Table 2-2: National dust control regulations

Restriction Area Dustfall rate (mg/m-²-day, 30-days

average)

Permitted frequency of exceeding

dustfall rate

Residential area D < 600 Two within a year, not sequential months

Non-residential area 600 < D < 1 200 Two within a year, not sequential months

2.3 Air Quality Management Plans

With the shift of the new air quality act from source control to the impacts on the receiving environment, the responsibility to

achieve and manage sustainable development has reached a new dimension. The air quality act has placed the

responsibility of air quality management on the shoulders of provincial and local governments that will be tasked with

baseline characterisation, management and operation of ambient monitoring networks, licensing to listed activities, and

emissions reduction strategies. The main objective of the act is to ensure the protection of the environment and human

health through reasonable measures of air pollution control within the sustainable (economic, social and ecological)

development framework.

The current project falls within the Highveld Priority Area (HPA), (Government Gazette, No. 30518 of 23 November 2007). A

Priority Area Air Quality Management Plan (AQMP) was developed for the region and published in 2011 (DEA, 2011). The

implications for an industry or mine located within the Highveld Priority Area is that it may be required to comply with more

stringent emission limits and (or) management measures. The findings and implications of the HPA management plan are

discussed under Section 3.4.

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3 DESCRIPTION OF THE RECEIVING ENVIRONMENT

The baseline air quality assessment characterises further details about:

Topography and environmental setting

Sensitive receptors

Atmospheric dispersion potential

Status quo ambient air quality

3.1 Topography and Environmental Setting

The project site is characterised by varying topography, with heights varying between 1 395 and 1 755 m above mean sea

level (amsl). Towards the north the topography is in the region of 1 400 m amsl, whereas in the south and south-east

direction it rises to around 1 680 m amsl (Figure 3-1). Mountains within the study area include KuSipongo (1 732 m amsl)

and Mbabala Kop (1 606 m amsl) located in the west and south-east direction of the project site respectively.

Figure 3-1: Topography of the area surrounding the project site

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3.2 Air Quality Sensitive Receptors

Sensitive receptors are areas within the project vicinity that are most likely to be impacted on by the project activities.

Receptors may include farms, houses, residential areas, school or any infrastructure where people reside. Natural resources

such as rivers and nature reserves are also regarded as sensitive receptors.

The immediate study area is mainly populated by rural farming communities. The largest concentration of human population

is at St Helena (approximately 10 km northeast) and Driefontein (approximately 12 km east) of the proposed project site

Twyfelhoek Primary School is located approximately 8 km west of the proposed project site (Figure 3-2 to Figure 3-4).

Other sensitive receptors not located in the immediate vicinity of the site proposed for the project includes the towns of Piet

Retief (~ 45km east), Volksrust (~ 55km south-west) and Ermelo (~ 65km north-west).

Figure 3-2: Location of sensitive receptors in the study area.

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Figure 3-3: Rural farming community in close proximity to the proposed site

Figure 3-4: Closest formal residential area (St. Helena) less than 10km north-east of the proposed project site

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3.3 Atmospheric Dispersion Potential

In order to understand and assess the possible impacts on the surrounding environment and human health, it is necessary

to understand the regional climate and local air dispersion potential of the area.

Meteorological characteristics of a site govern the dispersion, transformation and eventual removal of pollutants from the

atmosphere (Pasquill and Smith, 1983; Godish, 1990). Dispersion potential refers to the ability of pollutants to spread in

different directions and therefore to different locations. Dispersion potential can be observed both horizontally and vertically

and is dependent on the degree of thermal and mechanical turbulence within the earth’s boundary layer. Wind field largely

facilitates horizontal dispersion leading to wind speed determining both the distance of downward transport and dilution of

pollutants as a result of plume stretching. Vertical dispersion is facilitated by atmospheric stability and the depth of the

surface mixing layers. The generation of mechanical turbulence is similarly a function of the wind speed coupled with

surface roughness.

Pollution concentration levels fluctuate in response to changes in atmospheric stability, to concurrent variations in the mixing

depth, and to shifts in the wind field. Spatial variations, and diurnal and seasonal changes, in the wind field and stability

regime are functions of atmospheric processes operating at various temporal and spatial scales (Goldreich and Tyson,

1988). Atmospheric processes at macro- and meso-scales need therefore be taken into account in order to accurately

parameterise the atmospheric dispersion potential of a particular area.

Parameters that need to be taken into account in the characterisation of meso-scale ventilation potentials include wind

speed, wind direction, extent of atmospheric turbulence, ambient air temperature and mixing depth. Modelled MM5

meteorological data for a period of three years was used in the study in the absence of on-site data.

Surface Wind Field 3.3.1

The current project utilised Lakes WR plot view program to produce wind roses from Lakes MM5 meteorological data. Wind

roses comprise 16 spokes, which represent the direction from which winds blew during a specific period. The colours

indicate wind speeds; e.g. the yellow coloured band represents winds with a speed between 4 m/s and 5 m/s. Calms refer to

wind speeds of less than 1 m/s, whereas the dotted lines show the frequency of occurrence of wind speeds and direction

categories. The diurnal and seasonal wind fields are further elaborated on below. The period and diurnal variability in the

wind field are shown in Figure 3-5, whereas seasonal variations are presented in Figure 3-6.

Meteorological data indicate that the project area is mainly characterised by westerly winds (>16% frequency of occurrence)

and some easterly winds (>12% frequency of occurrence) (Figure 3-5). The north and south directions receive little airflow,

with less than 4% frequency of occurrence of winds with varying velocities.

Night-time conditions are normally associated with stable atmospheres, whereas daytime conditions are more unstable,

hence near ground level releases can result in relatively high concentrations during the night. Day time and night time

conditions though similar in the dominant wind direction – westerly, differ with regard to wind velocity, with night time

conditions showing a higher prevalence of winds with a velocity between 5 and 7 m/s and having less (7.3%) calms.

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Wind speed and direction usually change per season due to the influence of varying climatic conditions. Seasonal wind

roses for the project area indicate that wind direction changes per season, with summer and winter months dominated by

winds from the easterly and westerly sectors respectively. Autumn and spring show a presence of both westerly and easterly

winds; though the former season has a higher (~20% frequency of occurrence) prevalence of westerly winds and the latter

more easterly winds (~17% frequency of occurrence).

Figure 3-5: Period, day-time and night-time wind roses (MM5 data 2012 – 2014)

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Figure 3-6: Seasonal wind roses (MM5 data 2012 – 2014)

Temperature 3.3.2

Air temperature is important, both for determining the effect of plume buoyancy (the larger the temperature difference

between the emission plume and the ambient air, the higher the plume is able to rise), and determining the development of

the mixing and inversion layers.

Meteorological data indicates that the project area experiences high temperatures around 30°C during summer, with

relatively low temperatures in winter, especially in June and July (-1 to 0°C). Average daily maximum temperatures range

from 30°C in November and January to 28°C in July; while daily minima ranges between 12°C in February to -1°C in July

(Figure 3-7).

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Figure 3-7: Monthly temperature pattern for the project site (MM5 Data: 2012 to 2014)

Rainfall 3.3.3

Rainfall represents an effective removal mechanism of atmospheric pollutants from the environment and is therefore

frequently considered during air pollution studies. On its way to the surface rain water combines with pollutants in

atmosphere; this process may alter the composition of rain by making it acidic but this also means that the pollutants are

removed from the atmosphere which may reduce the impacts on human health.

The orography associated with the escarpment to the south of the project site has an impact on the local wind and rain

climate. Increased precipitation is generally found slightly upwind from the prevailing winds at the crests of mountain ranges,

where they relieve and therefore the upward lifting is greatest. As the air descends on the lee side of the mountain, it warms

and dries, creating a rain shadow.

Monthly rainfall data for the period 2012 to 2014, as illustrated in Figure 3-8 indicates that the project site lies in the summer

rainfall region of South Africa, in which more than 80% of the annual rainfall occurs from October to March, with a peak

being in December or January. Winter months receives little to no rain in winter as shown by June 2012 and 2014 rain data.

The rainfall events are highly localised and are in the form of conventional thunderstorms, these storms are sometimes

accompanied by hail. Of the three years 2012 received the highest rainfall, at a total of 1 375 mm.

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Figure 3-8: Rainfall pattern for the project site (MM5 Data: 2012 to 2014)

Atmospheric Stability 3.3.4

The vertical component of dispersion is a function of the extent of thermal turbulence and the depth of the surface mixing

layer. The mixing layer is not easily measured, and must therefore often be estimated using prognostic models that derive

the depth from some of the other parameters that are routinely measured, e.g. solar radiation and temperature. Atmospheric

stability is frequently categorised into one of six stability classes. These are briefly described in Table 3-1.

Table 3-1: Atmospheric stability classes

Class Description Description

A very unstable calm wind, clear skies, hot daytime conditions

B moderately unstable clear skies, daytime conditions

C unstable moderate wind, slightly overcast daytime conditions

D neutral high winds or cloudy days and nights

E stable moderate wind, slightly overcast night-time conditions

F very stable low winds, clear skies, cold night-time conditions

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The atmospheric boundary layer is normally unstable during the day as a result of the turbulence due to the sun's heating

effect on the earth's surface. The thickness of this mixing layer depends predominantly on the extent of solar radiation,

growing gradually from sunrise to reach a maximum at about 5-6 hours after sunrise. This situation is more pronounced

during the winter months due to strong night-time inversions and a slower developing mixing layer. During the night a stable

layer, with limited vertical mixing, exists. During windy and/or cloudy conditions, the atmosphere is normally neutral.

Atmospheric stability and mixing depth influence dispersion potential of emissions, for example low level releases such as

vehicle entrainment from unpaved roads will have the highest concentrations occurring during weak wind speeds and stable

(night-time) atmospheric conditions. Wind erosion, on the other hand, requires strong winds together with fairly stable

conditions to result in high ground level concentrations i.e. neutral conditions.

The atmospheric dispersion model AERMOD used in the current study is a “new generation” dispersion model which

describes atmospheric stability as a continuum rather than discreet classes. The atmospheric boundary layer properties are

therefore described by two parameters; the boundary layer depth and the Monin-Obukhov length, rather than in terms of the

single parameter Pasquill Class.

The Monin-Obukhov length (LMO) provides a measure of the importance of buoyancy generated by the heating of the ground

and mechanical mixing generated by the frictional effect of the earth’s surface. Physically, it can be thought of as

representing the depth of the boundary layer within which mechanical mixing is the dominant form of turbulence generation.

The atmospheric boundary layer constitutes the first few hundred metres of the atmosphere. During the daytime, the

atmospheric boundary layer is characterised by thermal turbulence due to the heating of the earth’s surface. Night times are

characterised by weak vertical mixing and the predominance of a stable layer. These conditions are normally associated

with low wind speeds and less dilution potential.

In the context of atmospheric dispersion potential, low wind speeds and large positive reciprocal Monin-Obukhov lengths

provide poor dispersion conditions for ground level releases, but releases from elevated sources (stable plumes under these

conditions) travel long distances before making ground fall, therefore night time conditions generally do not result in high

ground level concentrations. In contrast strong winds and large negative reciprocal Monin-Obukhov lengths provide good

dispersion conditions for ground level releases, these conditions however result in looping plumes from elevated releases,

these may result in high concentrations near the source, albeit of relatively short duration.

Focusing on the current project meteorological conditions, diurnal variations in atmospheric stability as calculated from

modelled MM5 data and described by the LMo is provided in Figure 3-9. The graph indicates that during the day, when the

sun is at its peak, LMo is mostly negative; whereas at night it’s mostly positive. Based on wind data and Figure 3-9, ground

level emissions are expected to disperse easily during the day and less so at night. Elevated sources are expected to have

a looping trend during the day and at night time emissions are expected to travel further from the source prior to making

ground fall.

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Figure 3-9: Diurnal variation in atmospheric stability as described by Monin-Obukhov length and mixing height (MM5 Data 2012–

2014)

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3.4 Status Quo Ambient Air Quality

Qualitative Assessment of Regional Sources of Pollution 3.4.1

The identification of existing sources of emission in the region, and the characterisation of ambient pollutant concentrations

is fundamental to the assessment of the potential for cumulative impacts and synergistic effects given the proposed

operation and its associated emissions. The source types present in the area and the pollutants associated with such source

types are noted with the aim of identifying pollutants which may be of importance in terms of cumulative impact potentials.

3.4.1.1 Mining Activities

Fugitive emission sources from mining activities mainly comprise of land clearing (i.e. scraping, dozing and excavating),

drilling and blasting, material handling operations, vehicle entrainment on roads and wind erosion from open areas or

stockpiles. The aforementioned activities mainly result in fugitive dust releases with small amount of NOx, CO, SO2,

methane and CO2 being released during blasting operations and from mining vehicles and equipment.

The majority of dustfall (from current Kangra Coal mining activities) at the site of the proposed project would be in the form

of small particles (less than 10 micron in aerodynamic diameters), but may also consist of combustion products such as

carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, sulphur dioxide and oxides of nitrogen. Larger particles would deposit closer to the

existing mining operations. Airborne dust emissions would also originate from existing discard and overburden heaps

(Figure 3-10).

Figure 3-10: Existing overburden and discard dumps at the existing Kanga Coal mine

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3.4.1.2 Tree Plantation

The first major activities encountered on route to the proposed project site were a number of large tree plantation blocks

(Figure 3-11). Albeit relatively far from the proposed project site, it could contribute some airborne dust during felling

operations. The significance of these emissions contributing to the current air quality in the area is likely to be low.

Figure 3-11: Tree plantations between the proposed project site and Panbult Siding

3.4.1.3 Wind-blown Dust from Open Areas

Wind-blown dust from natural arid soil surfaces, disturbed soil surfaces and mining related wind erodible sources all

contribute to the local and global dust load. Calculated annual dust emissions from South Africa indicate contributions from

areas where the land-use is less than 30% to be 11 MT yr-1 with 13 MT yr-1 estimated to be from anthropogenic sources

(land-use > 30%). The total annual dust emissions quantified from topographical sources amount to 51 MT yr-1

(Ginoux et al., 2012).

Wind erosion has a significant influence on air quality and human health (Goudie, 2009). Various studies have found a link

between increased morbidity and mortality, especially amongst children and the elderly, and dust storm events

(Ginoux et al., 2012; Karanasiou et al., 2012; De Longueville et al., 2013).

Emissions generated by wind erosion are dependent on the frequency of disturbance of erodible surface. Every time that a

surface is disturbed, its erosion potential is restored (EPA, 2006). Airborne particulates are expected to be released during

the cultivation of land Figure 3-12) and wind erosion of exposed areas (Figure 3-13). This would be more significant during

drier periods.

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Figure 3-12: Cultivation of land in the vicinity of the project site

Figure 3-13: Exposed agricultural areas prone to wind erosion

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3.4.1.4 Vehicle Entrainment on Paved and Unpaved Roads

Vehicles travelling on unpaved roads have to be a significant source of fugitive dust emissions. The force of the wheels of

vehicles travelling on unpaved roads causes the pulverisation of surface material. Particles are lifted and dropped from the

rotating wheels, and the road surface is exposed to strong air currents in turbulent shear with the surface. The turbulent

wake behind the vehicle continues to act on the road surface after the vehicle has passed. The quantity of dust emissions

from unpaved roads varies linearly with the volume of traffic.

Emissions from paved roads are significantly less than those originating from unpaved roads; but still contribute to the

particulate load of the atmosphere. Particulate emissions occur whenever vehicles travel over a paved surface causing the

re-suspension of loose material on the road surface.

Traffic on unpaved roads has the potential to generate significant fugitive dust. Although most of this dust has the propensity

to deposit nearby the road, a significant portion remains airborne (PM10 and PM2.5) and may be carried over relatively large

distances. Relatively little dust is generated along the existing conveyor route.

However, dust is generated by vehicle traffic along the public haul road to the Panbult Siding. Chemical road surface

mitigation measures to reduce fugitive dust from unpaved roads have been put in place as shown in Figure 3-14.

Furthermore, carryover mud on to the tarred public roads is evident at the Panbult siding (Figure 3-15). When dry, this

becomes friable and a source of fugitive dust.

Figure 3-14: Dust mitigation (water spraying) on public roads to Panbult Siding

Air Quality Impact Assessment for the Development and Operation of a Conveyor Belt, Adit and Associated Infrastructure at the Kangra Coal Kusipongo Coal Reserve, Maquasa West Extension Mining Right Area

Report No.14ERM15 3-15

Figure 3-15: Mud Carry-over from Panbult Siding onto Public Road

3.4.1.5 Vehicle Exhaust Emissions

Emissions resulting from motor vehicles can be grouped into primary and secondary pollutants. While primary pollutants are

emitted directly into the atmosphere, secondary pollutants form in the atmosphere as a result of chemical reactions.

Significant primary pollutants emitted by internal combustion engines include carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, carbon,

sulphur dioxide, oxides of nitrogen (mainly nitric oxide), particulates and lead. Secondary pollutants include nitrogen dioxide,

photochemical oxidants such as ozone, sulphuric acid, sulphates, nitric acid, and nitrate aerosols (particulate matter).

Vehicle (i.e. model-year, fuel delivery system), fuel (i.e. type, oxygen content), operating (i.e. vehicle speed, load), and

environmental parameters (i.e. altitude, humidity) influence vehicle emission rates (Onursal, 1997). National and some

regional roads may be sources of emissions due to the expected high traffic volumes on these roads.

Airborne particulates and diesel exhaust fumes are emitted along haul roads and public roads in the project site’s vicinity.

3.4.1.6 Biomass Burning

Crop-residue burning and general wild fires (veld fires) represent significant sources of combustion-related emissions

associated with agricultural areas. The significance of seasonal impacts due to biomass burning is well known and recorded

(Piketh et al., 1996). Biomass burning is an incomplete combustion process (Cachier, 1992), with carbon monoxide,

methane and nitrogen dioxide gases being emitted. Approximately 40% of the nitrogen in biomass is emitted as nitrogen,

10% is left is the ashes, and it may be assumed that 20% of the nitrogen is emitted as higher molecular weight nitrogen

compounds (Held et al, 1996). The visibility of the smoke plumes is attributed to the aerosol (particulate matter) content.

Air Quality Impact Assessment for the Development and Operation of a Conveyor Belt, Adit and Associated Infrastructure at the Kangra Coal Kusipongo Coal Reserve, Maquasa West Extension Mining Right Area

Report No.14ERM15 3-16

3.5 Measured Ambient Air Quality Data within the Project Site

Highveld Priority Area 3.5.1

As previously mentioned Kangra Coal mine falls within the Highveld Priority Area (HPA). The HPA was the second national

air quality priority area declared (after the Vaal Triangle Airshed Priority Area) by the Minister of Environmental Affairs at the

end of 2007 (HPA, 2011). This required that an AQMP for the area be developed. The plan includes the establishment of

emissions reduction strategies and intervention programmes based on the findings of a baseline characterisation of the

area. The implication of this is that all contributing sources in the area will be assessed to determine the emission reduction

targets to be achieved over the following few years.

A comprehensive emissions inventory was completed for the region as part of the study. The results of the inventory were

used to carry out a comprehensive dispersion modelling study over the area using the CALPUFF model (DEA, 2011).

Within the Pixley Ka lsaka Seme Local Municipality (LM) the HPA identified industries, motor vehicles, residential fuel

burning, agricultural burning and tyre burning as air quality source. The modelling results as illustrated by Figure 3-161,

indicates that the LM had less than 9 exceedances of the PM10 NEMAQA standard in a three year period (2004 – 2006)

1 The figure gives the areas in which ambient air quality standards are predicted to be in exceedance for more than the allowed 1% of the

time

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Report No.14ERM15 3-17

Figure 3-16: Modelled frequency of exceedance of 24-hour ambient PM10 standards in the HPA, indicating the air quality Hot

Spot areas (DEA 2011).

Kangra Coal Mine Monitoring 3.5.2

Particulates represent the main pollutant of concern in the assessment of mining operations. The existing Kangra Coal mine

has a dustfall network and this is important as it provides management with an indication of what the increase in fugitive

dust levels are from the mining operations. This is also important as it would bring the mining operations in line with the

NEMAQA.

The mine has six single dust buckets at Panbult Siding (Figure 3-17) and five single buckets at Maquasa East Shaft (Figure

3-18). The sampling period for the current dust buckets at Kangra Coal Mine is generally 14 days.

Air Quality Impact Assessment for the Development and Operation of a Conveyor Belt, Adit and Associated Infrastructure at the Kangra Coal Kusipongo Coal Reserve, Maquasa West Extension Mining Right Area

Report No.14ERM15 3-18

Figure 3-17: Dustfall monitoring network at Panbult Siding

Figure 3-18: Dustfall monitoring network at Kangra Coal mine

It should be noted that the NDCR prescribes the ASTM D1739:1970 or equivalent for dustfall measurement. The apparatus

for monitoring consists of a bucket approximately 150 mm diameter and 300 mm deep in which dust is collected for a period

between 28 and 33 days. In order to evaluate the measured dustfall results to the NDCR, the total mass from the two

fourteen day periods were added and the average calculated over the combined period.

As the method to measure dustfall at the Kangra Coal mine is not according to the ASTM D1739:1970 standard

measurement method, the dustfall levels should be seen as an indicator rather than an actual comparison.

Air Quality Impact Assessment for the Development and Operation of a Conveyor Belt, Adit and Associated Infrastructure at the Kangra Coal Kusipongo Coal Reserve, Maquasa West Extension Mining Right Area

Report No.14ERM15 3-19

3.5.2.1 Dustfall Results

Dustfall results for the period January 2009 to February 2011 indicated that the residential area limit of 600 mg/m2-day was

exceeded occasionally at both Panbult Siding and at the Maquasa East mine sites. The highest impacted location was

SAV2 (Panbult Siding), which observed nine months exceeding or equal to the non-residential limit and three months

exceeding the non-residential limit of 1 200 mg/m2-day, during the entire monitoring period. The highest dustfall was

observed at MAQ5 (Figure 3 17) exceeding the non-residential limit of 1 200 mg/m2-day on one occasion. In general,

dustfall rates at the sampling sites were below the non-residential level.

Air Quality Impact Assessment for the Development and Operation of a Conveyor Belt, Adit and Associated Infrastructure at the Kangra Coal Kusipongo Coal Reserve, Maquasa West Extension Mining Right Area

Report No.14ERM15 4-1

4 IMPACT OF PROPOSED PROJECT ON THE RECEIVING ENVIRONMENT

The aim of the study is to identify air pollution emission sources, perform an emissions inventory to obtain emission rates

and model the results so as to assess the spatial extent of the impacts. These are then compared with the relevant

regulations and standards for legal compliance and used to determine mitigation measures which will result in the reduction

of the total environmental impacts.

4.1 Atmospheric Emissions Inventory

An emissions inventory for the current project is provided below. The establishment of an emissions inventory comprises the

identification of sources of emissions, and the quantification of each source's contribution to ambient air pollution

concentrations.

Pollutants included in the inventory are limited to particulates - TSP, PM10, and PM2.5. Emission rates were calculated based

on planned operations at the proposed project site and detailed information provided by ERM. The fugitive dust emission

factors utilised in the study are taken from the NPI and US EPA emission factor documents and are provided in Appendix B.

The study differentiates between three phases of the project, construction, operational and decommissioning phase.

Emissions in the construction phase will result from the establishment of the access adit. Operational phase emissions will

emanate from material handling operations as well as wind-blown dust from the proposed overland conveyor. The

decommissioning phase was assessed qualitatively and emissions are expected to stem from wind-blown dust from

exposed stockpiles and the maintenance of roads, storage facilities and building structures etc.

Construction Phase 4.1.1

The main issues associated with construction activities on air quality relate to particulate emissions from excavation and

transport of spoil, the placement of fill and the stockpiling of materials. Emissions of dust can also be produced from

concrete batching plants, vehicles travelling on temporary untreated roads and wind-generated erosion from open areas.

Each of these operations has their own duration and potential for dust generation. It is anticipated that the extent of dust

emissions would vary substantially from day to day depending on the level of activity, the specific operations, and the

prevailing meteorological conditions.

Other air pollutants can include odours from asphalt laying, asphalt plant and emissions from internal combustion engines of

mobile and stationary equipment such as excavators, trucks, generators and compressors.

A detailed air pollution impact assessment would include a comprehensive inventory of all these sources of air emissions.

Unfortunately, this level of detail was not available at the time of the investigation. Instead the methodology followed was

that proposed by the US EPA, which relates to the dust generation to the area of construction (Appendix B).

The US EPA construction emission factor is a fixed value for total suspended particulate matter (TSP): ETSP = 2.69 ton/ha

per month of activity. No particle size modifiers are available; however, the US EPA estimates that the PM10 fraction is 30%.

Source parameters for this phase may be found in Table 4-1.

It was given that the total estimated footprint of the development is about 21 ha. For the purposes of the calculations, an

area of 1.376 ha was utilised, this is equal to the total footprint of the access adit, excluding related infrastructure.

Air Quality Impact Assessment for the Development and Operation of a Conveyor Belt, Adit and Associated Infrastructure at the Kangra Coal Kusipongo Coal Reserve, Maquasa West Extension Mining Right Area

Report No.14ERM15 4-2

Operational Phase 4.1.2

The operational phase quantified fugitive emissions emanating from material handling and wind-blown dust from the

proposed overland conveyor. Pollutants included in the inventory are TSP, PM10 and PM2.5. A detailed explanation of

sources quantified follows, with source parameters in Table 4-1.

4.1.2.1 Material Handling

Material handling operations can be sources of significant emission depending on the volume of material handled, the

number of handling steps or transfer points and the manner in which the activity is done i.e. with machines or manually.

Various climate parameters such as wind speed and precipitation may influence emissions from these sources. Fine

particulates are most readily disaggregated and released to the atmosphere during the material transfer process and as a

result of exposure to strong winds. Increases in the moisture content of the material being transferred will decrease the

potential for dust emissions since moisture promotes the aggregation and cementation of fines to the surfaces of larger

particles. Material handling operation for the current project will consist of the following:

Material transfer from the mining shaft onto the overland conveyor

Conveyor material transfer points, including tipping onto Maquasa West conveyor.

4.1.2.2 Wind-blown Dust from Conveyor

Dust emissions from conventional conveyors are wind speed dependent with stronger wind speeds causing dust particles to

be entrained by the wind. For the current project a conveyor to transport coal from the proposed mining shaft to the

Maquasa West conveyor is proposed. Parameters and emission calculation methodology for this source can be found in

Table 4-1 and Appendix B respectively.

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Report No.:14ERM15 4-3

Table 4-1: Kangra Coal source parameters and assumptions

Aspect Source Group Source Description Comments and Assumptions

Construction Phase

Fugitive dust (TSP,PM10 and PM2.5) Construction activities Site establishment, including construction of the access adit.

Working hours: 12 months per year and 9 hours per day.

Area constructed at a time: 1.376 ha

Assume PM10 is 30% of TSP

Operational Phase

Fugitive dust (TSP,PM10 and PM2.5)

Material handling

Transfer of coal from mining shaft onto overland conveyor

Conveyor material transfer point

Transfer of coal from overland conveyor onto Maquasa East

conveyor.

Assumed all mined material to be transferred

Average wind speed: 3.5 m/s

Material moisture content: 8%

Working hours: 365 days per year, 20 hours per day

Wind-blown dust Wind-blown from conveyor transporting coal from mining shaft to

Maquasa West.

Width: 2 m

Length: 5 872 m

Design: open conveyor

The PM10 and PM2.5 fraction has been estimated as 45% and

22% of TSP respectively

Decommissioning Phase

Fugitive dust (TSP, PM10 and PM2.5) Mine decommissioning

Demolition and stripping away of all facilities.

Rehabilitation and re-vegetation of surroundings.

Windblown dust from old stockpiles.

Vehicle entrainment on unpaved roads.

A qualitative study was done for this phase of the project.

Air Quality Impact Assessment for the Development and Operation of a Conveyor Belt, Adit and Associated Infrastructure at the Kangra Coal Kusipongo Coal Reserve, Maquasa West Extension Mining Right Area

Report No.:14ERM15 4-4

4.1.2.3 Emission Rates Summary

Emission rates for the construction and operational phases are listed per source group in Table 4-2. Wind-blown dust from

the conveyor is the biggest contributor to total study emissions, this in contrast to material handling operations which

contribute approximately 2%, across all inventoried pollutants. The low emissions from material handling operations may be

attributed to the high moisture content (>4%) of coal and the few conveyor transfer points.

It must be noted that conveyor emissions were calculated assuming that the conveyor is to have no coverings, i.e. no roof or

side coverings.

Table 4-2: Kangra Coal project emission rates (tpa)

Source group TSP PM10 PM2.5

Construction Phase

Construction 44 13

Operational Phase

Material handling 4 2 0.25

Wind-blown dust from conveyor 174 78 39

Total study’s emissions 222 93 39

Decommissioning Phase 4.1.3

Emissions in the decommissioning phase are likely to stem from vehicle entrainment on roads, wind-blown dust from

exposed stockpiles and the demolition of structures and maintenance of roads and building structures. Generally emissions

from this phase are minor and are expected to have minimal impacts on the environment provided proper rehabilitation

efforts are put in place early on in the operational phase.

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Report No.:14ERM15 4-5

4.2 Simulation Results

Atmospheric dispersion models compute ambient concentrations as a function of source configurations, emission strengths

and meteorological characteristics, thus providing a useful tool to ascertain the spatial and temporal patterns in the ground

level concentrations (GLCs) arising from the emissions of various sources. Increasing reliance has been placed on

concentration estimates from models as the primary basis for environmental and health impact assessments, risk

assessments and emission control requirements.

Dispersion modelling was undertaken to determine highest daily and annual average incremental GLCs for each pollutant.

These averaging periods were selected to facilitate the comparison of simulated pollutant concentrations with relevant air

quality standards. It should be noted that the GLC isopleths depicted present interpolated values from the concentrations

simulated by AERMOD for each of the receptor grid points specified.

Plots reflecting daily averaging periods contain only the 99th percentile simulated GLC, for those averaging periods, over the

entire period for which simulations were undertaken. It is therefore possible that even though a high daily average

concentration is predicted to occur at certain locations, that this may only be true for one day of the year.

Highest daily and annual average concentrations were simulated. These results represent interpolated values for each

receptor grid point for the various averaging periods. The heading of simulated annual average refers to the highest

concentration of emissions over the period modelled. Simulated daily average refer to the second highest concentrations of

all the modelled data and frequency of exceedances indicate the amount of days in a year the concentration of the pollutant

will be above the regulated limit.

Simulated fine particulates (PM10 and PM2.5) GLCs and dustfall rates were compared against the relevant guidelines in

Section 2. The purpose of this comparison is to determine the extent of the dispersion of pollutants and impact on sensitive

receptors and the surrounding environment as a whole.

Construction Phase 4.2.1

4.2.1.1 PM10 Concentrations

Simulated PM10 annual GLCs as a result of the construction of the access adit at Kangra Coal are illustrated in Figure 4-1.

The isopleths plot indicates that impacts are localised around the project site, with only the closest receptors likely to be

impacted. Daily simulated GLCs for PM10 show non-compliance for the daily NAAQS (Figure 4-2), with the resultant impacts

extending towards sensitive receptors located in close proximity to the site (C88, C89 C90, C93 and C94), in the south (C91

and C91) and north-westerly (C81, C82, C83 and C86) direction of the project site.

Depending on the area being constructed, different sensitive receptors are likely to be impacted, for example, when

construction activities are concentrated in the east, receptors C96 to C99 are likely to be impacted on.

The most adversely impacted receptors are those in close proximity to the project site, or within a 500 m radius, this includes

receptors C88, C89, C90, C93 and C94. This is substantiated by simulated GLCs at this receptors, with a maximum daily

concentration of 1 362 µg/m³ at C90 (Table 4-3).

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Report No.:14ERM15 4-6

4.2.1.2 Dustfall Rates

Simulated dustfall rates (Figure 4-3) for Kangra Coal project are limited to the project site and only impact on nearby

receptors.

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Figure 4-1: Kangra Coal project simulated PM10 annual average GLCs (construction phase)

Figure 4-2: Kangra Coal project simulated PM10 NAAQS daily frequency of exceedance (construction phase)

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Figure 4-3: Kangra Coal project simulated dustfall rates (construction phase)

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Report No.:14ERM15 4-9

Table 4-3: Kangra Coal project construction phase PM10 maximum GLCs at identified sensitive receptors

Receptor PM10 annual (µg/m3) Days of exceedance of the PM10 limit value of 75 µg/m³

C49 0 0

C50 0 0

C51 0 0

C52

0

C53 1 0

C54 0 0

C55 0 0

C56 0 0

C57 0 0

C58 0 0

C69 1 0

C70 0 0

C71 1 1

C81 3 7

C82 2 5

C83 2 2

C84 1 3

C85 2 4

C86 3 5

C87 2 2

C88 7 11

C89 37 58

C90 149 179

C91 4 7

C92 4 7

C93 28 42

C94 15 19

C95 1 1

C96 1 1

C97 2 1

C98 1 1

C99 2 2

NAAQS 75 µg/m³ 4

Notes: Text in bold indicates exceedance of the relevant air quality standard as per Section 2

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Operational Phase 4.2.2

4.2.2.1 PM10 Concentrations

Simulated annual PM10 GLCs as a result of the operational phase for Kangra Coal can be viewed in Figure 4-4. The

isopleths plots shows that resultant impacts are mostly centralised to the operational areas, such as conveyor transfer

points; this is substantiated by Figure 4-5 which illustrates the area of non-compliance with the daily NAAQS; the image also

shows that exceedances are more apparent around areas of operation.

Receptors to be impacted include C88, C89, and C90, located at the mining shaft transfer point and C72, C54, C55 and C56

situated around the conveyor transfer point.

The receptor with the highest simulated concentration is C90 at a daily concentration of 577 µg/m³ and 204 days of

exceedance of the daily limit of 75 µg/m³ (Table 4-4).

4.2.2.2 PM2.5 Concentrations

PM2.5 simulated annual GLCs resultant impacts are also mostly confined to the operational areas. Wind-blown dust impacts

are more apparent around the first segment of the conveyor (Figure 4-6).

The number of days where the PM2.5 daily air quality limit of 40 µg/m³ is exceeded at the receptors ranges between 1 (C55

and C98) and 196 (C90), this can be observed in Figure 4-7 and Table 4-5.

4.2.2.3 Dustfall Rates

Simulated dustfall rates are localised and more apparent at material handling points (Figure 4-8).

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Figure 4-4: Kangra Coal project simulated PM10 annual average GLCs (operational phase)

Figure 4-5: Kangra Coal project simulated PM10 NAAQS daily frequency of exceedance (operational

phase)

Air Quality Impact Assessment for the Development and Operation of a Conveyor Belt, Adit and Associated Infrastructure at the Kangra Coal Kusipongo Coal Reserve, Maquasa West Extension Mining Right Area

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Table 4-4: Kangra Coal project operational phase PM10 maximum GLCs at identified sensitive receptors

Receptor PM10 annual (µg/m3) Days of exceedance of the PM10 limit value of 75 µg/m³

C49 4 0

C50 7 0

C51 3 0

C52 12 3

C53 17 9

C54 28 23

C55 8 1

C56 7 0

C57 6 0

C58 5 0

C69 6 0

C70 5 0

C71 38 56

C81 7 0

C82 5 0

C83 5 0

C84 4 0

C85 5 0

C86 9 1

C87 9 0

C88 35 51

C89 17 10

C90 96 204

C91 3 0

C92 4 0

C93 9 1

C94 9 1

C95 9 0

C96 21 21

C97 14 6

C98 10 1

C99 10 1

NAAQS 75 µg/m³ 4

Notes: Text in bold indicates exceedance of the relevant air quality standard as per Section 2

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Figure 4-6: Kangra Coal project simulated PM2.5 annual average GLCs (operational phase)

Figure 4-7: Kangra Coal project simulated PM2.5 NAAQS daily frequency of exceedance (operational

phase)

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Figure 4-8: Kangra Coal project simulated dustfall rates (operational phase)

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Report No.:14ERM15 4-15

Table 4-5: Kangra Coal project operational phase PM2.5 maximum GLCs at identified sensitive receptors

Receptor PM2.5 annual (µg/m3) Days of exceedance of the PM2.5 limit value of 40 µg/m³

C49 2 0

C50 3 0

C51 2 0

C52 6 3

C53 9 7

C54 14 18

C55 4 1

C56 3 0

C57 3 0

C58 2 0

C69 3 0

C70 3 0

C71 19 51

C81 3 0

C82 3 0

C83 2 0

C84 2 0

C85 2 0

C86 5 0

C87 5 0

C88 17 47

C89 8 5

C90 48 196

C91 2 0

C92 2 0

C93 4 1

C94 4 0

C95 4 0

C96 11 17

C97 7 4

C98 5 1

C99 5 0

NAAQS 20 µg/m³ 4

Notes: Text in bold indicates exceedance of the relevant air quality standard as per Section 2

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Report No.:14ERM15 4-16

Decommissioning Phase 4.2.3

A qualitative assessment was performed for the decommissioning phase; it is assumed that all mining activities would have

ceased, and that all surface infrastructures would be demolished and removed.

Emissions are expected to arise from wind-blown dust from exposed stockpiles and demolition of structures and vehicle

entrainment on roads. These sources need to be properly managed and mitigated to avoid significant impacts on the

ambient environment.

4.3 Analysis of Impacts on the Environment

Predicted Impacts on Vegetation and Animals 4.3.1

No national ambient air quality standards or guidelines are available for the protection of animals and vegetation. In the

absence of national ambient standards for animals, the standards used for the protection of human beings may be used to

assess the impacts on animals. Areas of non-compliance of the relevant air quality guidelines due to the proposed project

operations are provided in Sections 4.2.

While there is little direct evidence of what the impact of dustfall on vegetation is under a South African context, a review of

European studies has shown the potential for reduced growth and photosynthetic activity in Sunflower and Cotton plants

exposed to dust fall rates greater than 400 mg/m²/day (Farmer, 1991). Dustfall modelling results for both the construction

and operational phase indicate localised impacts (Figure 4-3 and Figure 4-8).

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Report No.:14ERM15 4-17

4.4 Impact Ranking

The impact assessment stage comprises a number of steps that collectively assess the manner in which the project will

interact with elements of the physical, biological, cultural or human environment to produce impacts to resources or

receptors. The steps involved in the impact assessment stage are described in greater detail below.

The impact characteristic terminology to be used is summarised in Table 4-6.

Table 4-6: Impact characteristic terminology

Characteristic Definition Designations

Type A descriptor indicating the relationship of the impact to the Project (in terms of cause

and effect). Direct, indirect or induced

Extent The “reach” of the impact (e.g., confined to a small area around the Project Footprint,

projected for several kilometres, etc.).

Local, regional or

international

Duration The time period over which a resource / receptor is affected. Temporary, short-term, long-

term and permanent

Scale The size of the impact (e.g., the size of the area damaged or impacted, the fraction of

a resource that is lost or affected, etc.)

No fixed designations;

intended to be a numerical

value Frequency A measure of the constancy or periodicity of the impact.

In the case of type, the designations are defined universally (i.e., the same definitions apply to all resources or receptors and

associated impacts). For these universally-defined designations, the definitions are provided in Table 4-7.

Table 4-7: Designation definitions

Designation Definition

Type

Direct Impacts that result from a direct interaction between the Project and a resource or receptor (e.g., between

occupation of a plot of land and the habitats which are affected).

Indirect

Impacts that follow on from the direct interactions between the Project and its environment as a result of

subsequent interactions within the environment (e.g., viability of a species population resulting from loss of part

of a habitat as a result of the Project occupying a plot of land).

Induced Impacts that result from other activities (which are not part of the Project) that happen as a consequence of the

Project (e.g., influx of camp followers resulting from the importation of a large Project workforce).

Extent

Local

Defined on a resource/receptor-specific basis. Regional

International

Duration

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Designation Definition

Temporary

Defined on a resource/receptor-specific basis.

Short-term

Long-term

Permanent

In the case of extent and duration, the designation themselves (Table 4-6.) are universally consistent, but the definitions for

these designations will vary on a resource or receptor basis (e.g., the definition of what constitutes a “short term” duration for

a noise-related impact may differ from that of a “short term” duration for a habitat-related impact). This concept is discussed

further below.

In the case of scale and frequency, these characteristics are not assigned fixed designations, as they are typically numerical

measurements (e.g., number of acres affected, number of times per day, etc.).

The terminology and designations are provided to ensure consistency when these characteristics are described in an impact

assessment deliverable. However, it is not a requirement that each of these characteristics be discussed for every impact

identified.

An additional characteristic that pertains only to unplanned events (e.g., traffic accident, operational release of toxic gas,

community riot, etc.) is likelihood. The likelihood of an unplanned event occurring is designated using a qualitative (or semi-

quantitative, where appropriate data are available) scale, as described in Table 4-8.

Table 4-8: Definition of likelihood designations

Likelihood Definition

Unlikely The event is unlikely but may occur at some time during normal operating conditions.

Possible The event is likely to occur at some time during normal operating conditions.

Likely The event will occur during normal operating conditions (i.e., it is essentially inevitable).

Likelihood is estimated on the basis of experience and/or evidence that such an outcome has previously occurred. It is

important to note that likelihood is a measure of the degree to which the unplanned event is expected to occur, not the

degree to which an impact or effect is expected to occur as a result of the unplanned event. The latter concept is referred to

as uncertainty, and this is typically dealt with in a contextual discussion in the impact assessment deliverable, rather than in

the impact significance assignment process.

In the case of impacts resulting from unplanned events, the same resource/receptor-specific approach to concluding a

magnitude designation is utilised, but the ‘likelihood’ factor is considered, together with the other impact characteristics,

when assigning a magnitude designation. There is an inherent challenge in discussing impacts resulting from (planned)

Project activities and those resulting from unplanned events. To avoid the need to fully elaborate on an impact resulting from

Air Quality Impact Assessment for the Development and Operation of a Conveyor Belt, Adit and Associated Infrastructure at the Kangra Coal Kusipongo Coal Reserve, Maquasa West Extension Mining Right Area

Report No.:14ERM15 4-19

an unplanned event prior to discussing what could be a very low likelihood of occurrence for the unplanned event, this

methodology incorporates likelihood into the magnitude designation (i.e., in parallel with consideration of the other impact

characteristics), so that the “likelihood-factored” magnitude can then be considered with the resource or receptor

sensitivity/vulnerability/importance in order to assign impact significance. Rather than taking a prescriptive (e.g., matrix)

approach to factoring likelihood into the magnitude designation process, it is recommended that this be done based on

professional judgment, possibly assisted by quantitative data (e.g., modelling, frequency charts) where available.

Once the impact characteristics are understood, these characteristics are used (in a manner specific to the resource or

receptor in question) to assign each impact a magnitude. In summary, magnitude is a function of the extent, duration, scale,

frequency and likelihood.

Magnitude essentially describes the degree of change that the impact is likely to impart upon the resource or receptor. As in

the case of extent and duration, the magnitude designations themselves (i.e., negligible, small, medium, large) are

universally used and across resources/receptors, but the definitions for these designations will vary on a resource or

receptor basis, as is discussed further below. The universal magnitude designations are, positive, negligible, small, medium

and large.

The magnitude of impacts takes into account all the various dimensions of a particular impact in order to make a

determination as to where the impact falls on the spectrum (in the case of adverse impacts) from negligible to large. Some

impacts will result in changes to the environment that may be immeasurable, undetectable or within the range of normal

natural variation. Such changes can be regarded as essentially having no impact, and should be characterised as having a

negligible magnitude. In the case of positive impacts no magnitude will be assigned.

In addition to characterising the magnitude of impact, the other principal step necessary to assign significance for a given

impact is to define the sensitivity/vulnerability/importance of the impacted resource/receptor. There are a range of factors to

be taken into account when defining the sensitivity/vulnerability/importance of the resource/receptor, which may be physical,

biological, cultural or human. Where the resource is physical (for example, a water body) its quality, sensitivity to change

and importance (on a local, national and international scale) are considered. Where the resource or receptor is biological or

cultural (for example, the marine environment or a coral reef), its importance (for example, its local, regional, national or

international importance) and its sensitivity to the specific type of impact are considered. Where the receptor is human, the

vulnerability of the individual, community or wider societal group is considered.

Other factors may also be considered when characterising sensitivity/vulnerability/importance, such as legal protection,

government policy, stakeholder views and economic value.

As in the case of magnitude, the sensitivity/vulnerability/importance designations themselves are universally consistent, but

the definition for these designations will carry on a resource or receptor basis. The universal

sensitivity/vulnerability/importance designations are, low, medium and high.

Once magnitude of impact and sensitivity/vulnerability/importance of resource or receptor have been characterised, the

significance can be assigned for each impact. Impact significance is designated using the matrix shown in Table 4-9.

Air Quality Impact Assessment for the Development and Operation of a Conveyor Belt, Adit and Associated Infrastructure at the Kangra Coal Kusipongo Coal Reserve, Maquasa West Extension Mining Right Area

Report No.:14ERM15 4-20

Table 4-9: Impact significance

Sensitivity/Vulnerability/Importance of Resource/Receptor

Low Medium High

Mag

nitu

de o

f Im

pact

Negligible Negligible Negligible Negligible

Small Negligible Minor Moderate

Medium Minor Moderate Major

Large Moderate Major Major

The matrix applies universally to all resources/receptors, and all impacts to these resources/receptors, as the

resource/receptor- or impact-specific considerations are factored into the assignment of magnitude and sensitivity

designations that enter into the matrix. The context for what the various impact significance ratings signify is provided below

in Table 4-10.

Table 4-10: Context of significance

An impact of negligible significance is one where a resource/receptor (including people) will essentially not be affected in any way by a

particular activity or the predicted effect is deemed to be ‘imperceptible’ or is indistinguishable from natural background variations.

An impact of minor significance is one where a resource/receptor will experience a noticeable effect, but the impact magnitude is

sufficiently small (with or without mitigation) and/or the resource/receptor is of low sensitivity/ vulnerability/ importance. In either case, the

magnitude should be well within applicable standards.

An impact of moderate significance has an impact magnitude that is within applicable standards, but falls somewhere in the range from a

threshold below which the impact is minor, up to a level that might be just short of breaching a legal limit. Clearly, to design an activity so

that its effects only just avoid breaking a law and/or cause a major impact is not best practice. The emphasis for moderate impacts is

therefore on demonstrating that the impact has been reduced to a level that is as low as reasonably practicable (ALARP). This does not

necessarily mean that impacts of moderate significance have to be reduced to minor, but that moderate impacts are being managed

effectively and efficiently.

An impact of major significance is one where an accepted limit or standard may be exceeded, or large magnitude impacts occur to highly

valued/sensitive resource/receptors. An aim of IA is to get to a position where the Project does not have any major residual impacts,

certainly not ones that would endure into the long term or extend over a large area. However, for some aspects there may be major

residual impacts after all practicable mitigation options have been exhausted (i.e. ALARP has been applied). An example might be the

visual impact of a facility. It is then the function of regulators and stakeholders to weigh such negative factors against the positive ones

such as employment, in coming to a decision of the Project.

Air Quality Impact Assessment for the Development and Operation of a Conveyor Belt, Adit and Associated Infrastructure at the Kangra Coal Kusipongo Coal Reserve, Maquasa West Extension Mining Right Area

Report No.:14ERM15 4-21

The impact assessment pre and post the employment of mitigation measures is summarised in subsequent tables for the

different phases of the project. Table 4-11 and Table 4-12 provide significance ratings for the Construction phase, with the

evaluation of the Operational Phase provided in Table 4-13 and Table 4-14. The significance rating for the Decommissioning

Phase is provided in Table 4-15 and Table 4-16.

Table 4-11: Kangra Coal mine impact rating for the construction phase (pre-mitigation)

Type of Impact

Direct Negative Impact

Rating of Impacts

Characteristic Designation Summary of Reasoning

Extent

Local - within 1 km

of construction

activities

It is anticipated that the site preparation activities could result in significant particulate

emissions (large magnitude – particularly PM10) with no emission controls in place.

Construction activities and the movement of vehicles along unpaved roads at the site have

the potential to result in significant emissions. Significant emissions (particularly PM10) may

travel for up to 1 km from the construction activities in significant concentrations.

Duration Short Term Impacts would arise throughout the construction period

Scale 1 km from source

Particulate emitting construction activities and the movement of vehicles over unpaved roads

during the construction phase will result in emissions that may travel 1 km away from the

source.

Frequency Continuous Impacts would arise, continuously from construction activities.

Likelihood Likely Impacts are likely to arise throughout the construction phase.

Magnitude

Large Magnitude

Sensitivity/Vulnerability/Importance of the Resource/Receptor

High Sensitivity

Based on the situation that there are receptors within the immediate area of impact, the rating is considered to be High.

Significance Rating

Major Negative Impact

Air Quality Impact Assessment for the Development and Operation of a Conveyor Belt, Adit and Associated Infrastructure at the Kangra Coal Kusipongo Coal Reserve, Maquasa West Extension Mining Right Area

Report No.:14ERM15 4-22

Table 4-12: Kangra Coal mine impact rating for the construction phase (post-mitigation)

Type of Impact

Direct Negative Impact

Rating of Impacts

Characteristic Designation Summary of Reasoning

Extent

Local - within 500 m

of construction

activities

The site preparation activities could be mitigated to such an extent that would render the

residual impacts as minor for the majority of the time. However these measures cannot

always guarantee that air quality related impacts will not occasionally occur and hence is

considered to be of moderate significance with appropriate emission controls in place.

The mitigation measure of paving roads or using chemicals is considered sufficient to

render residual impacts minor with regard to emissions of particulates.

Duration Short Term

The mitigation measures are designed to control emissions and associated impacts to

receptors as far as practicable, and render residual impacts not significant. However,

intermittent impacts may arise at any time during the construction activities.

Scale 500 m from source

Although mitigation measured would reduce the scale to less than 200 m, occasionally

particulate emitting construction activities may result in emissions that may travel for up to

500 m from source

Frequency Occasional Although majority of air quality related impacts will be managed/mitigated for majority of

the time, occasional impacts may arise

Likelihood Possible Occasional air quality related impacts during the construction phase of the proposed

project are still possible.

Magnitude

Medium Magnitude

Sensitivity/Vulnerability/Importance of the Resource/Receptor

Moderate Sensitivity

The application of recommended mitigation measure will ensure that the number of affected receptors is reduced,, the rating is therefore

considered to be Moderate

Significance Rating

Moderate Negative Impact

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Report No.:14ERM15 4-23

Table 4-13: Kangra Coal mine impact rating for the operational phase (pre-mitigation)

Type of Impact

Direct Negative Impact

Rating of Impacts

Characteristic Designation Summary of Reasoning

Extent

Local - within 400 m

of construction

activities

Particulate emissions from the overland conveyor system have the potential to impact up

to 400 m from the conveyor (mainly near the transfer points).

Duration Long term Impacts are expected to last throughout the life of mine.

Scale 400 m from source Emissions arising from the transportation of the coal may travel for up to more than 400 m

from the overland conveyor system.

Frequency Continuous Impacts would arise, in effect, continuously from operational activities.

Likelihood Likely Impacts are likely to arise throughout the operational phase.

Magnitude

Large Magnitude

Sensitivity/Vulnerability/Importance of the Resource/Receptor

High Sensitivity

Based on the situation that there are receptors within the immediate area of impact, the rating is considered to be High.

Significance Rating

Major Negative Impact

Air Quality Impact Assessment for the Development and Operation of a Conveyor Belt, Adit and Associated Infrastructure at the Kangra Coal Kusipongo Coal Reserve, Maquasa West Extension Mining Right Area

Report No.:14ERM15 4-24

Table 4-14: Kangra Coal mine impact rating for the operational phase (post-mitigation)

Type of Impact

Direct Negative Impact

Rating of Impacts

Characteristic Designation Summary of Reasoning

Extent

Local - within 200 m

of construction

activities

With appropriate emission controls on the conveyor and material handling, the impact of

particulates can be reduced to only extend ~200 m from the project site

Duration Long term Impacts are expected to last throughout the life of mine.

Scale 200 m from source Emissions arising from the transportation of the coal may travel for up to more than 200 m

from the overland conveyor system.

Frequency Occasional Although majority of air quality related impacts will be managed or mitigated for majority of

the time, occasional impacts may arise.

Likelihood Possible Occasional air quality related impacts during the operational phase of the proposed project

are still possible.

Magnitude

Medium Magnitude

Sensitivity/Vulnerability/Importance of the Resource/Receptor

High Sensitivity

The application of recommended mitigation measure will ensure that the number of affected receptors is reduced, the rating is therefore

considered to be Moderate

Significance Rating

Moderate Negative Impact

Air Quality Impact Assessment for the Development and Operation of a Conveyor Belt, Adit and Associated Infrastructure at the Kangra Coal Kusipongo Coal Reserve, Maquasa West Extension Mining Right Area

Report No.:14ERM15 4-25

Table 4-15: Kangra Coal mine impact rating for the decommissioning phase (pre-mitigation)

Type of Impact

Direct Negative Impact

Rating of Impacts

Characteristic Designation Summary of Reasoning

Extent

Local - within

500m of

construction

activities

Decommissioning activities and the movement of vehicles along unpaved roads at the site

have the potential to result in significant emissions (medium magnitude) with no emission

controls in place.

Significant emissions may travel for up to 500m from the decommissioning activities in

significant concentrations.

Duration Short term Impacts would arise throughout the decommissioning period.

Scale More than 500 m

from source

Particulate and dust emitting decommissioning activities and the movement of vehicles over

unpaved roads during the decommissioning phase will result in dust emissions may travel for

up to 500m from source.

Frequency Continuous Impacts would arise, in effect, continuously from decommissioning activities.

Likelihood Likely Impacts will arise throughout the decommissioning period

Magnitude

Medium Magnitude

Sensitivity/Vulnerability/Importance of the Resource/Receptor

Moderate Sensitivity

Based on the situation that there are receptors within the immediate area of impact, the rating is considered to be Moderate

Significance Rating

Moderate Negative Impact

Air Quality Impact Assessment for the Development and Operation of a Conveyor Belt, Adit and Associated Infrastructure at the Kangra Coal Kusipongo Coal Reserve, Maquasa West Extension Mining Right Area

Report No.:14ERM15 4-26

Table 4-16: Kangra Coal mine impact rating for the decommissioning phase (pre-mitigation)

Type of Impact

Direct Negative Impact

Rating of Impacts

Characteristic Designation Summary of Reasoning

Extent

Local - within

200m of

construction

activities

The proper mitigation and management of decommissioning activities will ensure that

emissions are reduced to a minor significance.

Significant emissions may travel for up to 200m from the decommissioning activities in

significant concentrations.

Duration Short term Impacts would arise throughout the decommissioning period.

Scale Within 200 m from

source

Particulate and dust emitting decommissioning activities and the movement of vehicles over

unpaved roads during the decommissioning phase will result in dust emissions travelling for

up to 200m from source.

Frequency Occasional Although majority of air quality related impacts will be managed or mitigated for majority of

the time, occasional impacts may arise.

Likelihood Possible Occasional air quality related impacts during the decommissioning phase of the proposed

project are still possible.

Magnitude

Small Magnitude

Sensitivity/Vulnerability/Importance of the Resource/Receptor

Minor Sensitivity

The application of recommended mitigation measure will ensure that the number of affected receptors is reduced; the rating is therefore

considered to be Minor.

Significance Rating

Minor Negative Impact

Air Quality Impact Assessment for the Development and Operation of a Conveyor Belt, Adit and Associated Infrastructure at the Kangra Coal Kusipongo Coal Reserve, Maquasa West Extension Mining Right Area

Report No.:14ERM15 5-1

5 RECOMMENDED AIR QUALITY MEASURES

The air quality assessment focuses on the impacts on human health. The management plan given, thus aims to provide

mitigation measures that can be utilised to reduce the impacts on humans and improve ambient air quality.

5.1 Source Ranking

The ranking of sources serves to confirm, or where necessary revise, the current understanding of the significance of

specific sources, and to evaluate the emission reduction potentials required for each source. Sources of emissions for

simulated scenarios are ranked based on emission and impacts.

Source Ranking by Emissions 5.1.1

Source ranking by emissions highlights sources of concern based on the emission rates. Construction phase generally has

medium to high emission rates, over a limited period of time. Emissions from this phase of the project are highly influenced

by the size of the area constructed and the duration of the operation; this therefore means that large areas constructed over

an extended period of time are likely to result in high emissions.

For the operational phase, wind-blown dust from the conveyor had high emission rates, when compared to material handling

points. This is influenced by the conveyor parameters such as the length, width and lack of a roof and side coverings.

The decommissioning phase of the project is likely to result in low emissions, this is because most operations would have

ceased. Emissions may arise from vehicle entrainment on unpaved and the maintenance of infrastructure and the

demolishing of building and other structures.

Source Ranking by Impacts 5.1.2

Source ranking by impacts highlights sources of concern based on simulated GLCs. Construction phase impacts are

predicted to be major in significance; however impacts will have a short duration. Modelling results show that construction

impacts will affect receptors in close proximity to the project site. To ensure minimal impacts on both human health and the

environment proper and effective mitigation measures should be put in place during this phase of the project, this will reduce

the significance of the impacts to moderate.

Operational phase impacts are mostly as result of wind-blown dust from the conveyor. Material handling impacts are minor

and in compliance with relevant standards. This is true for all pollutants modelled. Pre-mitigation impacts are expected to

have a major significance, the implementation of recommended mitigation measures will however result in moderate

significance for the project.

The decommissioning phase is expected to have minimal impacts on human health and the environment; with significance

rating of moderate pre-mitigation and minor post-mitigation.

Air Quality Impact Assessment for the Development and Operation of a Conveyor Belt, Adit and Associated Infrastructure at the Kangra Coal Kusipongo Coal Reserve, Maquasa West Extension Mining Right Area

Report No.:14ERM15 5-2

5.2 Source Specific Recommended Management an Mitigation Measures

Recommendations and management measures informed by predicted impacts for the current project are listed in Table 5-2

per project phase and source group.

Construction Phase 5.2.1

Detailed calculation of the emissions associated with the construction activities have not been quantified as these will

depend very much upon the exact activities taking place at any one time or location. However, due to the potential

significant impact of unmitigated and uncontrolled emissions, a number of mitigation measures are identified to control

emissions of particulates.

Construction phase impacts are expected to have a short duration, due to the phase timelines. Recommended mitigation

measures include the use of water sprays on areas being constructed and material transfer points; this will ensure that the

soil stays moist and compact for an increased period of time, thereby reducing dust emissions. Site clearing activities,

where practical, should be limited to the rainy season, which occurs during the summer months. Wind-blown dust from

exposed stockpiles should be managed through covering – netting, vegetation and/or rock cladding.

Since construction roads would mostly be temporary, it is customary to regulate particulate emissions from haul roads by

employing a watering programme. On more permanent roads, it is recommended to have these sections treated with more

durable substances, such as chemical stabilisers/binders or even paving. More mitigation measures recommendations for

this phase can be found in Table 5-2.

Operational Phase 5.2.2

Wind-blown dust from the conveyor is predicted to have notable emissions and resultant impacts. Mitigation measures for

this may include conveyor roof and side coverings. Control factors for wind generated dust on top of the conveyor belt have

been derived from information published in recent assessments for the Dalrymple Bay and Hay Point Coal Terminals and

information published in the Australian National Pollution Inventory (NPI 2001). A summary of the control factors is

presented in Table 5-1.

For material handling operations, it is recommended that water sprays be used at transfer points and the drop height be

reduced.

For future operations or plans such as the proposal of a gravel service road through to ventilation Adit B, it is recommended

that a watering system and use of chemicals be employed as recommended for the construction phase. Chemicals have the

advantage of providing higher control efficiency (up to 90%); less frequent applications required and save on water usage.

Table 5-1: Summary of conveyor belt emission reduction (NPI 2001)

Control type on conveyor Emission reduction (%)

Roof and two sides 70

Roof and one side 65

Rood only 40

Air Quality Impact Assessment for the Development and Operation of a Conveyor Belt, Adit and Associated Infrastructure at the Kangra Coal Kusipongo Coal Reserve, Maquasa West Extension Mining Right Area

Report No.:14ERM15 5-3

Decommissioning Phase 5.2.3

The biggest contributor to the decommissioning phase particulates emissions is expected to be vehicle entrainment on

unpaved and wind-blown dust from exposed stockpiles.

Depending on traffic volumes chemicals or water sprays should be used on unpaved roads. Capping or covering stockpiles

would highly reduce the potential for wind-blown dust (Table 5-2).

Air Quality Impact Assessment for the Development and Operation of a Conveyor Belt, Adit and Associated Infrastructure at the Kangra Coal Kusipongo Coal Reserve, Maquasa West Extension Mining Right Area

Report No.:14ERM15 5-4

Table 5-2: Kangra Coal project impacts mitigation measure per source group and project phase

Aspect Source Group Impact Mitigation Measure

Construction Phase

Construction of the access adit Construction PM10 concentration and dustfall

Watering at construction areas, increased moisture will reduce the potential for dust generation.

Reduce construction activities during windy days.

Vehicles should be kept clean and free of residual dirt and mud, and wash down should continue

before entering public roads.

A speed limit of 45km/h should be implemented on unpaved surfaces to minimise the potential for

dust to be raised;

All vehicles leaving and accessing the site carrying friable materials should be covered;

It is important to minimise exposed areas prone to wind erosion through the following means:

Cover as far and quick as practically possible with vegetation, sheeting or boarding, or

Employ chemical binders;

Where stockpiles are in use, the design should be optimised to retain a low profile with no sharp

changes in shape.

Where ground and earthworks are covered or surface binders used, the smallest possible area for

working should be exposed.

Stockpiles should be located as far away as possible from receptors.

Wind breaks should be erected around the key construction activities (i.e. around the access adit),

and, if possible, in the vicinity of potentially dusty works.

Operational Phase

Transfer of coal from mining shaft onto overland

conveyor

Conveyor material transfer point

Transfer of coal from overland conveyor onto

Maquasa East conveyor.

Material handling PM10 and PM2.5 concentration

and dustfall.

A semi-enclosed chute to transfer the material should be provided.

The transfer point should be tightly enclosed, and the dust-laden air should be exhaust from the

enclosure through a duct. The dust from the air should be removed by a dust collector or

discharged to a return airway.

Air Quality Impact Assessment for the Development and Operation of a Conveyor Belt, Adit and Associated Infrastructure at the Kangra Coal Kusipongo Coal Reserve, Maquasa West Extension Mining Right Area

Report No.:14ERM15 5-5

Wind-blown from conveyor transporting coal from

mining shaft to Maquasa West.

Wind-blown dust

from conveyor

PM10 and PM2.5 concentration

and dustfall.

Conveyor belts are usually equipped with belt scrapers; however, it is further recommended that

conveyor belts also be equipped with belt washers

When dust levels are high, a second or even third scraper should be added rather than trying to get

a single scraper to work more efficiently (Kissell 2003)

Decommissioning Phase

Demolition and stripping away of all buildings and

facilities.

Decommissioning

phase of the project

PM10 and PM2.5 concentration

and dustfall.

Demolition should be done by professionals to prevent unnecessary dust generation.

Rehabilitation and re-vegetation of surroundings. Re-vegetate using plants that are indigenous to the area and are most likely to thrive in that

environment.

Windblown dust from exposed stockpiles Cover stockpile as recommended for the operational phase.

Degradation of paved roads resulting in unpaved

road surfaces. Chemicals and water sprays should be used on the roads.

Maintenance of stockpiles, storage facilities and

building structures.

Stockpiles and storage facilities should be mitigated in the same way as recommended in previous

phases of the project.

Air Quality Impact Assessment for the Development and Operation of a Conveyor Belt, Adit and Associated Infrastructure at the Kangra Coal Kusipongo Coal Reserve, Maquasa West Extension Mining Right Area

Report No.:14ERM15 5-6

5.3 Performance Indicators

Key performance indicators against which progress of implemented mitigation and management measures may be

assessed form the basis for all effective environmental management practices. In the definition of key performance

indicators careful attention is usually paid to ensure that progress towards their achievement is measurable, and that the

targets set are achievable given available technology and experience.

Performance indicators are usually selected to reflect both the source of the emission directly (source monitoring) and the

impact on the receiving environment (ambient air quality monitoring). Ensuring that no visible evidence of windblown dust

exists represents an example of a source-based indicator, whereas maintaining off-site dustfall levels to below 600 mg/m²-

day represents an impact- or receptor-based performance indicator.

Source monitoring at mining activities can be challenging due to the fugitive and wind-dependant nature of particulate

emissions. The focus is therefore rather on receptor based performance indicators i.e. compliance with ambient air quality

standards and dustfall regulations. Due to the number of receptors in the vicinity of the project site, it is highly recommended

that air quality guidelines listed in Section 2 be adopted by Kangra Coal as receptor-based objectives.

Ambient Air Quality Monitoring 5.3.1

Air quality impacts as result of the operation Kangra Coal project are predicted to be major; this is mainly influenced by

sensitive receptors around the project site. . Fine particulates (specifically PM10) and ambient dustfall monitoring is

recommended so as to ascertain the modelling results. Monitoring should commence during the construction phase and

continue throughout the life of the project. The monitoring programme is designed to assist in the decision making process

around the implementation of mitigation, verify the efficiency of mitigation measures and ensure that unacceptable impacts

are not arising at nearby sensitive receptors.

Monitoring effort should be focused on areas (Figure 5-1), where simulated concentrations exceed the PM10 daily standard

of 75 µg/m³, such as at receptors C88, C90 and C72. PM10 monitoring should be undertaken using devices that are

recognised by the DEA for compliance purposes. In this regard, gravimetric sampling (filter-based methods) is required. The

use of “mini-vol”, filter based sampling requires the daily changing of filters. Appendix A provides a detailed discussion

regarding the various types of PM10 monitors on the market.

During the construction phase the monitoring data should be reviewed on a daily basis; and during the operational phase,

should be considered on a monthly basis. Where PM10 emissions associated with the site are above the NAAQS

investigations should be made into the sources of emissions and measures implemented to manage emissions.

Dustfall monitoring should be carried out using the American Society of Testing and Materials (ASTM) methodology. The

apparatus for monitoring consists of a bucket approximately 150 mm in diameter and 300 mm deep in which dust is

collected for a period between 28 and 33 days. Solid matter larger than 2 mm in size (insects etc.) is removed by screening.

The remaining solid matter is washed from the bucket, filtered and weighed. Use of this method will ensure that sampled

dustfall rates are comparable to the NDCR.

A dustfall monitoring network should be expanded to include areas around sensitive receptors, conveyor route and material

handling points. Indicatives sites are illustrated in Figure 5-1. The proposed monitoring locations may be revised annually or

Air Quality Impact Assessment for the Development and Operation of a Conveyor Belt, Adit and Associated Infrastructure at the Kangra Coal Kusipongo Coal Reserve, Maquasa West Extension Mining Right Area

Report No.:14ERM15 5-7

as project phases and operational areas change, this will assist in obtaining a good baseline and also identify areas where

mitigation measures should be focused.

During the construction and operational phases the monitoring data should be reviewed on a monthly basis by the

environmental manager. Where dust emissions associated with the site are above NDCR’s residential and non-residential

limits, investigations should be made into the sources of emissions and measures implemented to manage emissions.

Monitoring will serve to meet objectives such as:

Compliance monitoring

Validate dispersion modelling results

Use as input for health risk assessment

Assist in source apportionment

Temporal trend analysis

Spatial trend analysis

Source quantification and

Tracking progress made by control or mitigation measures.

Figure 5-1: Kangra Coal mine indicative monitoring network

Air Quality Impact Assessment for the Development and Operation of a Conveyor Belt, Adit and Associated Infrastructure at the Kangra Coal Kusipongo Coal Reserve, Maquasa West Extension Mining Right Area

Report No.:14ERM15 5-8

Visual Inspection 5.3.2

During the construction, operation and decommissioning phase’s commitment should be made to undertake visual

inspections of activities resulting in dust on-site. In the event that activities on site are observed to be generating significant

airborne dust, the activity generating the emissions should be reviewed and as required, additional mitigation implemented,

or if required, activities should be ceased. The visual inspections should be undertaken on a daily basis, and should reflect

the ethos of ‘see it, own it’, in terms of identifying and addressing significant dust emissions. Where significant emissions are

observed, these should be recorded by the environmental manager in accordance with the quality management system.

This may include electronic record keeping as well as hardcopy reports. On the basis of the reports, where there are

activities that repeatedly result in significant emissions, further investigations should be undertaken to reduce emissions.

This should be the role of the site environmental manager, or nominated representative.

Community Complaints 5.3.3

A register of community complaints should be maintained by the environmental manager. Where complaints are received

these should be investigated and verified, where substantiated complaints are identified, an investigation into the cause of

the complaint should be undertaken, and as required, measures implemented to reduce the future potential of such impacts

reoccurring.

Air Quality Impact Assessment for the Development and Operation of a Conveyor Belt, Adit and Associated Infrastructure at the Kangra Coal Kusipongo Coal Reserve, Maquasa West Extension Mining Right Area

Report No.:14ERM15 6-1

6 CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

6.1 Main Findings

Baseline Environment 6.1.1

Kangra Coal project is situated in an area with minimal mining and industrial activities, with the exception of other Kangra

Coal mining operations. The surrounding area is mainly used for farming and is mostly populated by rural communities, with

St Helena approximately 10 km northeast and Driefontien approximately 12 km east of the project site.

The project area is characterised by wind from the westerly and easterly direction. The north and south directions receive

little airflow, with less than 4% frequency of occurrence of winds with varying velocities. Temperatures at the project site

range between a minimum of -1°C in June and July, and a maximum of 30°C in November. The area receives summer rain,

with winter months receiving little to no rain.

Air Quality Impact Assessment 6.1.2

Construction phase unmitigated impacts are expected to be major; arising from varying activities such as site clearing,

vehicle entrainment on unpaved roads and infrastructure development. The employment of proper mitigation such as the

use of water sprays or chemicals on roads should reduce the impacts to have a moderate significance.

Dispersion modelling results for the operational phase indicates that daily PM10 and PM2.5 GLCs will adversely affect nearby

sensitive receptors. Simulated dustfall rates are expected to be limited to operational areas such as material transfer points.

The unmitigated overall impact rating for this phase is thus major, but with proper implementation of mitigation measure the

rating may be reduced to moderate.

The decommissioning phase of the project is likely to have a moderate impact rating pre-mitigation; this is because this

phase has minimal activities. It must however be noted that mitigation measures need to be efficiently employed to ensure

that the phase has a minor impact rating.

Monitoring 6.1.3

Fine particulates monitoring (especially PM10) and the expansion of the dustfall monitoring network are recommended.

Indicative sampling sites were informed by the locations of sensitive receptors and dispersion modelling results. Monitoring

should commence during the construction phase of the project and continue throughout the life of mine.

6.2 Conclusion

The main conclusion is that Kangra Coal mine operation is likely to result in major impacts without mitigation, this is largely

due to the close proximity of sensitive receptors to the project. The application of mitigation measures as per Section 5.2

would reduce the significance of impacts to moderate.

6.3 Recommendations

To ensure the lowest possible impact on nearby communities it is recommended that the air quality management plan as set

out in this report should be adopted. This includes the mitigation of sources of emission, management of associated air

quality impacts and ambient air quality monitoring.

Air Quality Impact Assessment for the Development and Operation of a Conveyor Belt, Adit and Associated Infrastructure at the Kangra Coal Kusipongo Coal Reserve, Maquasa West Extension Mining Right Area

Report No.:14ERM15 7-1

7 REFERENCES

Baig N A, Dean AT and Skiver D W,1994 Successful use of belt washers. In: Proceedings of the American Power

Conference. Chicago, IL: Illinois Institute of Technology, pp. 976-978.

Burger L 2013, Air Quality Impact Assessment Report, Ref: 0120258_V5.0_AQIA. Airshed Planning Professionals

Cachier, H, 1992, Biomass burning sources. Encyclopedia of Earth System Science, Academic Press Inc., 1, 377 – 385.

DEA, 2014 Regulations Regarding Air Dispersion Modelling, Government Gazette No. 37804 of 11 July 2014

DEA, 2012 National Dust Control Regulations Government, Gazette No. 36974 of 1 November 2013

DEA, 2012 National Ambient Air Quality Standards for Particulate Matter with Aerodynamic Diameter less than 2.5 Micron

Meter (PM2.5), Government Gazette No. 35463 of 29 June 2012

DEA, 2009 National Ambient Air Quality Standards, Government Gazette No. 32816 of 24 December 2009

DEAT, 2007 Declaration of the Highveld Priority Area in Terms of the Section 18(1) o the National Environmental

Management: Air Quality Act, 2004 (Act No 39 of 2004), Government Gazette No. 30518 of 23 November 2007

DEA, 2005 National Environmental Management Air Quality Act (Act No. 39 of 2004), Government Gazette No. 27318 of 11

September 2005

DEA, 2011 The Highveld Priority Area Air Quality Management Plan Department of Environmental Affairs, Chief Directorate:

Air Quality Management, pp 291

De Longueville, F., Ozer, P., Doumbia, S. & Henry, S., 2013 Desert dust impacts on human health: an alarming worldwide

reality and a need for studies in West Africa.. International Journal of Biometeorology, 57, 1-19.

US EPA, 2006. AP-42, 5th Edition, Volume 1, Chapter 13: Miscellaneous Sources, 13.2 Introduction to Fugitive Dust

Sources, 13.2.5 Industrial Wind Erosion. [Online] Available at: http://www.epa.gov/ttn/chief/ap42/

US EPA 1999. Compilation of Air Pollution Emission Factors (AP-42), 6th Edition, Volume 1, as contained in the AirCHIEF

(AIR Clearinghouse for Inventories and Emission Factors), Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park,

North Carolina

US EPA, 1996, Compilation of Air Pollution Emission Factors (AP-42), 6th Edition, Volume 1, as contained in the AirCHIEF

(AIR Clearinghouse for Inventories and Emission Factors) CD-ROM (compact disk read only memory), US Environmental

Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina.

Farmer A M, 1991 The effects of dust on vegetation-A review. Environmental Pollution pp79:63-75

Ginoux, P., Prospero, J. M., Gill, T.E., Hsu, C., & Zhao, M., 2012. Global-scale attribution of anthropogenic and natural

dust sources and their emission rates based on MODIS Deep Blue aerosol products. Reviews of Geophysics, 50, 1 36.

Goldreich, Y. and Tyson, P.D,1988, Diurnal and inter-diurnal variations in large-scale atmospheric turbulence over

southern Africa, South African Geographical Journal, 70, 48-56.

Goudie, A. S., 2009. Dust storms: Recent developments. Journal of Environmental Management, 90, 89–94.

Haskins G and DOceanics, 1975. Hay Point Environmental Planning Study.

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Report No.:14ERM15 7-2

Held,G., Gore,B.J., Surridge, A.D., Tosen, G.R., Turner,C.R., & Walmsley (eds), 1996. Air Pollution and its impacts on

the South African Highveld. Environmental Scientific Association, Cleveland, 144 pp.

Karanasiou, A., Moreno , N ., Moreno, T., Viana , M., de Leeuw , F., Querol, X., 2012. Health effects from Sahara dust

episodes in Europe: literature review and research gaps.. Environment International, 15, 107-114.

Kissell F.N, 2003 Handbook for Dust Control in Mining, Information Circular 9465, U.S. Department Of Health And Human

Services.

MAC, 1980 Design guidelines for dust control at mine shafts and surface operations. 3rd ed. Ottawa, Ontario, Canada:

Mining Association of Canada.

NPI, 2012. Emission Estimation Technique Manual for Mining

NPI, 2001 Emission Estimation Technique Manual for Mining Version 2.3, Australian Government, Department of the

Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts.

Onursal, B. and S.P. Gautam, 1997: Vehicular Air Pollution: Experiences from Seven Latin American Urban Centers

Parrett, FW, 1992, Dust emission – a review, Applied Environmetrics (Balwyn).

Pasquill, F. and Smith, F.B, 1983, Atmospheric Diffusion. Study of the Dispersion of Windborne Material from Industrial

and Other Sources, Ellis Horwood Ltd., Chichester, 437 pp.

Piketh, S.J., Annegarn, H.J. and Kneen, M.A., 1996. Regional scale impacts of biomass burning emissions over southern

Africa, in J.S. Levine (ed.), Biomass Burning and Global Change, MIT Press, Cambridge, 320-326.

Air Quality Impact Assessment for the Development and Operation of a Conveyor Belt, Adit and Associated Infrastructure at the Kangra Coal Kusipongo Coal Reserve, Maquasa West Extension Mining Right Area

Report No.:14ERM15 8-1

8 APPENDICES

8.1 Appendix A: Fine Particulates Monitors

Filter-based Monitors 8.1.1

Filter-based monitors include various off-line samplers, such as stacked filter units (SFU) and sequential air samplers, and

certain continuous real-time monitors such as the Tapered Element Oscillating Microbalance (TEOM) and the beta gauge or

beta-attenuation mass (BAM) monitors.

8.1.1.1 Filter-based, Off-line Samplers (SFUs, Sequential Samplers)

Stacked filter units and sequential air samplers are most frequently used when elemental, ionic and/or carbon analyses are

required of the measured particulates. Filters are required to be weighed prior to their being loaded in the sampler for

exposure in the field. Following exposure the filters are removed are reweighed in a lab to determine the particulate

concentration. The filters may then be sent for elemental (etc.) analysis. Teflon-membrane filters are commonly used for

mass and elemental analysis.

Sequential air samplers with sequential dichotomous configurations splits the PM10 sample stream into its fine (PM2.5) and

coarse (particles between 2.5 and 10 µm in size) fractions - collecting the fine and coarse mode particulates simultaneously

on two different filters. Certain of these systems, e.g. Partisol-Plus Air Samplers (Figure 8-1) have capacities of up to 16 filter

cassettes with an automatic filter exchange mechanism. Filter changes can be triggered on a temporal basis or based on

wind direction. Once the 16 filters have been exposed, the filters would require collection and replacement.

Figure 8-1: Partisol-Plus Sequential Air Sampler

Key disadvantages of off-line filter-based samplers such as the SFU and sequential air sampler include: the labour intensive

nature of this monitoring technique and the large potential which exists for filter contamination due to the level of filter

handling required. Real-time measurements are also not possible through the application of these samplers making it

impossible to identify pollution episodes on a timely basis.

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8.1.1.2 Filter-based, On-line Samplers (TEOM, BAM)

The TEOM operates by continuously measuring the weight of particles deposited onto a filter. The filter is attached to a

hollow tapered element which vibrates at its natural frequency of oscillation - as particles progressively collect on the filter,

the frequency changes by an amount proportional to the mass deposited. As the airflow through the system is regulated, it is

possible to determine the concentration of particulates in the air. The filter requires changing periodically, typically every 2 to

4 weeks, and the instrument is cleaned whenever the filter is changed. Different inlet arrangements are used to configure

the instrument. TEOMs can monitor PM10, PM2.5, PM1 and TSP continuously. Data averages and update intervals include:

5-minute total mass average (every 2 seconds), 10-minute rolling averages (every 2 seconds), 1-hour averages, 8-hour

averages, 24-hour averages (etc.). The TEOM has a minimum detection limit of 0.01 µg/m3.

Beta attenuation monitors collect particulates on a filter paper over a specified cycle time. The attenuation of beta particles

through the filter is continuously measured over this time. BAMs give real-time measurement of either TSP, PM10 or PM2.5

depending on the inlet arrangement. At the start of the cycle, air is drawn through a glass fibre filter tape, where the

particulates deposit. Beta particles that are emitted from either a C14 or a K85 sources are attenuated by the particles

collecting on the filter. The radiation passing through the tape is detected by a scintillator and photomultiplier assembly. A

reference measurement is made through a clean portion of the filter, either during or prior to the accumulation of the

particles - the measurement enables baseline shifts to be corrected.

Application of filter-based, on-line samplers such as either the BAM or TEOM monitors has several distinct advantages

including:

continuous, near-real-time aerosol mass monitoring;

self-contained, automated monitoring approach requiring limited operator intervention following installation;

a choice of averaging times from 1 minute to 24 hours;

low labour costs, minimal filter handling and a reduction in the risk of filter contamination; and

non-destructive monitoring methods providing the potential of supplying samples which may be submitted for

chemical analysis.

The TEOM is US-EPA approved (EQPM-1090-079) as an equivalent method for measuring 24-hour average PM10

concentrations in ambient air quality. It represents the only continuous monitor which meets the California Air Resources

Board acceptance criteria for 1-hour mass concentration averages. TEOM instrumentation also has German TÜV approval

for TSP measurements. Not all beta gauges are US-EPA approved, with only the Andersen (FAG-Kigelfischer, Germany)

and Wedding beta monitor having been approved.

The performance of the TEOM and BAM monitors are compared in Table 8-1. The TEOM tends to perform better than

BAMs in many respects, particularly with regard to the precision of measurements made. An additional advantage of the

TEOM (14000 series) is the optional inclusion of the ACCU system. This system allows for conditional sampling by

time/date, particulate concentration and/or wind speed and direction. The application of the TEOM in combination with the

ACCU system could therefore allow for the assessment of an operation's contribution to particulate concentrations occurring

at a site on an on-line real-time basis.

Air Quality Impact Assessment for the Development and Operation of a Conveyor Belt, Adit and Associated Infrastructure at the Kangra Coal Kusipongo Coal Reserve, Maquasa West Extension Mining Right Area

Report No.:14ERM15 8-3

Table 8-1: Comparison of TEOM and BAM performance

TEOM BAM

Principle of operation

Measured mass on a filter based upon inertia (as

fundamental as gravimetric method).

Inferred mass on a filter based upon the strength of a

radioactive beam.

Measures only mass (represents a true mass

measurement)

Do not measure mass but rather the transmission of

beta rays

Advantages and

disadvantages

Performs well under varying humidity conditions.

Samples and measures at a defined filter face velocity

and conditioning temperature to ensure standardized

data under low humidities

Can produce erroneous measurements under

changing humidity conditions

Not sensitive to particulate composition since it makes

a mass-based measurement.

Sensitive to interferences (site/season specific) arising

due to: particle composition, particle distribution

across the filter, radioactive decay and the effect of air

density in the radioactive beam.

Precision (measured

by standard

deviation)

Standard deviation for hourly data: ± 1.5-2.0 µg/m³.

(Precision of ±5 µg/m3 for 10-minute averaged data.)

Beta monitors with strong source: standard deviation

for hourly data: ± 15-20 µg/m³.

Beta monitors with weak source: hourly data not

acceptable.

TEOMs have been found to typically under-predict actual particulate concentrations by a consistent amount (typically 18% to

25%). In the US TEOM results are typically multiplied by a factor of 1.3 to determine actual concentrations (this single factor

is made possible by the consistency or high precision of the instrument). TEOMs tend to be less effective in environments

with elevated nitrate concentrations or high potentials for the adsorption of volatile compounds on particles. Beta attenuation

monitors perform poorly in areas with soils that have a radioactive component.

A common disadvantage of the TEOM and BAM monitors is that they all require electricity to operate thus limiting the

potential sites for the location of such monitors. A further disadvantage of the TEOM and BAM monitors are that they are

relatively costly to purchase. Despite the relatively high costs of purchasing continuous real-time monitors such as the

TEOM and beta gauge monitors, significant savings can be achieved in the operation of such monitors due to the low labour

costs and the minimal filter handling required by these techniques.

Air Quality Impact Assessment for the Development and Operation of a Conveyor Belt, Adit and Associated Infrastructure at the Kangra Coal Kusipongo Coal Reserve, Maquasa West Extension Mining Right Area

Report No.:14ERM15 8-4

Figure 8-2: TEOM sampler linked to the ACCUTM conditional sampling system

Non-filter-based Monitors 8.1.2

Real-time but non-filter based monitors include the TSI DustTrak, the DustScan Sentinel Aerosol Monitor and the Topas

Dust Monitor. Several of these monitors can be solar-powered negating the need for selecting a site with power access.

Such monitors measures particle concentrations corresponding to various size fractions, including PM10, PM2.5 and PM1.0,

and comprise many of the benefits of the TEOM and BAM monitors including:

continuous, near-real-time aerosol mass monitoring;

a choice of averaging times from 1 minute to 24 hours;

limited operator intervention; and

minimal filter handling.

Air Quality Impact Assessment for the Development and Operation of a Conveyor Belt, Adit and Associated Infrastructure at the Kangra Coal Kusipongo Coal Reserve, Maquasa West Extension Mining Right Area

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Data Transfer Options 8.1.3

Although most analysers have internal data storage facilities, logging is usually carried out by means of a dedicated data

logger (PC or specialised data logger). Data transfer may be undertaken in various ways:

downloaded intermittently from the instrument - PC link cable required;

real-time, continuous transfer via telemetry - telemetry control unit required;

near real-time, intermittent transfer via radio link - requires transmitter & license to use frequency; or

continuous download via satellite.

In selecting the data transfer option possible future accreditation requirements must be taken into account, e.g.: (i) raw data

is to be kept for minimum of 3 years, and (ii) all manipulations of data must be recorded.

Air Quality Impact Assessment for the Development and Operation of a Conveyor Belt, Adit and Associated Infrastructure at the Kangra Coal Kusipongo Coal Reserve, Maquasa West Extension Mining Right Area

Report No.:14ERM15 8-6

8.2 Appendix B: Emission Factors and Equations

General Construction Activities 8.2.1

The US EPA provides a very general emission factor for construction activities based on the size of the construction area.

Based on field measurements of total suspended particulate (TSP) concentrations surrounding apartment and shopping

centre construction projects, the approximate emission factors for construction activity operations is:

E = 2.69 megagrams (Mg)/hectare/month of activity

This value is most useful for developing estimates of overall emissions from construction scattered throughout a

geographical area. The value is most applicable to construction operations with: (1) medium activity level, (2) moderate silt

contents, and (3) semiarid climate. Test data were not sufficient to derive the specific dependence of dust emissions on

correction parameters. Because the above emission factor is referenced to TSP, use of this factor to estimate particulate

matter (PM) no greater than 10μm in aerodynamic diameter (PM10) emissions will result in conservatively high estimates.

Also, because derivation of the factor assumes that construction activity occurs 30 days per month, the above estimate is

somewhat conservatively high for TSP as well.

Although the equation above represents a relatively straightforward means of preparing an area-wide emission inventory, at

least two features limit its usefulness for specific construction sites. First, the conservative nature of the emission factor may

result in too high an estimate for PM10 to be of much use for a specific site under consideration. Second, the equation

provides neither information about which particular construction activities have the greatest emission potential nor guidance

for developing an effective dust control plan.

Material Handling 8.2.2

The quantity of dust that will be generated from materials handling operations will depend on various climatic parameters,

such as wind speed and precipitation, in addition to non-climatic parameters such as the nature and volume of the material

handled. Fine particulates are most readily disaggregated and released to the atmosphere during the material transfer

process, as a result of exposure to strong winds. Increases in the moisture content of the material being transferred would

decrease the potential for dust emission, since moisture promotes the aggregation and cementation of fines to the surfaces

of larger particles. The following equation was used to estimate emissions from material transfer operations:

EFTSP =0.47*0.0016*(U/2.2)1.3 /(M/2)1.4

EFpm10 =0.35*0.0016*(U/2.2)1.3 *(M/2)1.4

Where,

U = mean wind speed in m/s

M = moisture content in % (by weight)

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Report No.:14ERM15 8-7

Overland Conveyor System 8.2.3

The dust emissions from conveyors are wind speed dependent with stronger wind speeds causing dust particles to be

entrained by the wind. The degree of entrained dust also depends on the level of enclosure, i.e. roof cover and/or sides.

The wind speed dependence has been based on the recommendations of Parrett (1992) where the dust emission rate (as

grams per metre of conveyor) is equivalent to a constant multiplied by the difference between the friction velocity (u*) and

the threshold friction velocity of the coal (u*t):

)**( tTSP uucE

An estimate for the constant (c) has been made on data reported by GHD/Oceanics (1975) for measured conveyor

emissions at a wind speed of 10 m/s. The PM10 and PM2.5 fraction has been estimated as 45% and 22% of TSP

respectively. As indicated, the approach is conservative since it assumes emissions from a conventional conveyor.

The logarithmic wind speed profile may be used to estimate friction velocities from wind speed data recorded at a reference

anemometer height of 10 m ( US EPA, 1999): u* =0.053 u10. This equation assumes a typical roughness height of 0.5 cm

for open terrain, and is restricted to large relatively flat piles or exposed areas with little penetration into the surface layer.

Parrett’s (1992) estimate of u* over coal surfaces was determined as typically 0.11 times the 10 metre level wind speed.

Furthermore, the threshold wind speed (u*t) for coal dust to be lifted (particles in the 20-30 μm range) is 3.1 m/s. The value

for u*t therefore is typically 0.34 m/s. Emissions for wind speeds below 3.1 m/s are likely to be negligible.