MINING RIGHT HOLDER: ATOLL METAL RECOVERY (PTY) LTD A ... · Elematic SA (Pty) Ltd E, M - No issues raised - - Soil King (Pty) Ltd E, M - No issues raised - - Pronto Readymix (Pty)

DMR Reference No. GP (085) MR

Report compiled in accordance with the requirements of Appendix 4 of GNR 982 – The Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations of 2014 (as amended) –

to the National Environmental Management Act, Act No. 107 of 1998 as amended:

MINING RIGHT HOLDER: ATOLL METAL RECOVERY (PTY) LTD

OPERATION NAME: ZIMBIWA QUARRY

PROPERTY DESCRIPTION: PORTION 43 (A PORTION OF PORTION 3) OF THE FARM

MODDERFONTEIN 76 IR

REPORT NUMBER: ATO-ZIM_002-17 FINAL

DATE:

MARCH 2018

REPORT COMPILED BY: UMHLABA ENVIRONMENTAL CONSULTING CC Compiled by: Greg Coates BSc, MSc Reviewed by: Andrew Nicholson BSc Hons, PDip

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS Umhlaba Environmental Consulting CC would like to thank the all personnel (who were consulted) for their assistance in the compilation of this document. Special thanks go to: Lanties Landman (Atoll) Gavin Gouws (Atoll) Arrie van Niekerk (Atoll)

COPYRIGHT WARNING Unless otherwise stated, the copyright in all text and other matter (including the manner of presentation) is the exclusive property of Umhlaba Environmental Consulting CC. It is a criminal offence to reproduce and / or use, any matter, technical procedure and / or technique contained in this document, without written consent, unless it is being reproduced for the purpose in which it was intended.

AUTHOR’S CONTACT DETAILS

Umhlaba Environmental Consulting CC Tell: (011) 791 3389 P.O. Box 731504 Fax: (011) 791 3384 Fairland, 2030 E-mail: [email protected]

Atoll Metal Recovery (Pty) Ltd – Zimbiwa Quarry March 2018 Environmental Management Programme report Page i

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Zimbiwa Quarry is an existing aggregate mining operation where mining takes place through traditional open cast drilling and blasting techniques and various products are processed from a crushing and screening plant which services the local and regional construction industry. The quarry currently operates under a new order mining right with reference number GP 085 MR. The mining right is granted until 2037 and extends over an area of 73.1541 ha. This current document presents further proposed amendments to the approved EMPr of Randell and Robinson, 2006. Background Information and Reason for Amendment Atoll Metal Recovery (Pty) Ltd (Atoll) recently acquired ownership of the Zimbiwa Quarry operation (all assets, landownership and mineral rights) and after reviewing the approved EMPr they came to the realisation that the stipulated decommissioning and closure commitments therein were unrealistic. Atoll therefore enquired with the Regional Manager of the Gauteng Department of Mineral Resources (DMR) to amend the approved EMPr to reflect their preferred intentions for decommissioning and closure. A meeting was held at the DMR on the 18

th July 2017 to discuss the proposed amendments during which it

was agreed by all parties present that as it is only the decommissioning and closure sections that require amendment, the content of the approved EMPr (Randell and Robinson, 2006) would be simply transferred to a document that satisfies the currently legislated requirements (Appendix 4 of the Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations, 2014 (GN R982) as amended

1), and the necessary

content on decommissioning and closure would be amended. It was also agreed that the amended document would be made available for public review to ensure that Interested and Affected Parties have an opportunity to consider the proposed amendments and provide their input. Important Baseline Information

Site Status:

The site is highly disturbed by historical and current mining activities. Features include an active quarry pit, processing plants, stockpiles (topsoil, overburden and product), workshops and admin buildings. The site is not deemed to be environmentally sensitive.

Surface Water:

There are no natural surface water bodies (rivers, streams, wetlands etc) within the Mining Area, however the canalised Blesbokspruit runs down the eastern perimeter of the mining right area which includes wetland that is considered an irreplaceable habitat. Historical and ongoing water quality monitoring upstream and downstream of the Blesbokspruit suggest that activities at the quarry are not impacting on the quality of this water body.

Ground Water:

The site is located over the dolomite aquifer of the East Rand Mining Basin (ERMB). There is sufficient evidence to suggest that underlying mine workings (shallow mining) has already drained the dolomitic aquifer in the vicinity of the site.

Ecology: Minimal vegetation exists within the site (mostly alien). Although there are red data fauna species listed for the quarter degree square within which the site falls, none of these species are anticipated to reside or visit the site as there is no suitable habitat within the site to support these species.

Air Quality:

Notable sources of dust emissions from the site include blasting, crushing and hauling. Ongoing dust fallout monitoring results suggest that dust emissions from the quarry on off-site receptors are acceptable.

Sound Levels:

Past surveys show ambient noise in the area of the site comprises predominantly traffic on the R51 and R29 and local streets and service roads, and to a lesser extent, existing mining activities. Notable sources of noise from Zimbiwa Quarry include blasting, crushing and hauling.

Summary of Activities Onsite Existing activities (No Changes / amendments): Planning

Stripping ratios and storage of overburden

Strategy for excavation of mineral resource

Potential capital expenditure (future activities) Mining

Stripping of vegetation / topsoil / overburden

1 Amendments of April 2017.

Atoll Metal Recovery (Pty) Ltd – Zimbiwa Quarry March 2018 Environmental Management Programme report Page ii

Stockpiling of topsoil / overburden

Drilling and blasting of mineral resource

Loading and hauling of excavated material Processing

Crushing, screening and washing of excavated material into product

Stockpiling of product

Loading and hauling of product for dispatch Supporting Services

Administration, roads, power, fuel, water (potable and process), maintenance, waste etc Concurrent Rehabilitation

Alien vegetation removal

Planting of indigenous trees to act as a visual and noise screen

Vegetation of overburden dumps Decommissioning, Final Rehabilitation and Closure (Amendments proposed): In summary, the reason for this amendment is that the closure objectives stipulated in the current EMPR require that the pit be refilled with the adjacent overburden dump material at closure of the mine. This objective has subsequently been identified as being neither economically feasible nor viable. Due to the expected life of mine still exceeding 30 years, it is not possible to plan specific activities as yet for the quarry pit after closure and therefore Atoll must at this time commit to making the quarry safe at the end of life of mine. In order to achieve this, the mine proposes the following Closure Objectives:

Make the quarry pit safe by: o Blast and slope the top benches o Enclose the pit with palisade fencing

Remove all infrastructure with no future value for the landowner

Identify and address areas of potential contamination (spills etc)

Profile and revegetate disturbed areas (outside of the pit including overburden dumps)

Ongoing monitoring to assess the success of final rehabilitation

Public Participation A full public participation process was undertaken to solicit comments from identified I&AP’s specifically around the scope of the current amendment. Only the results of this process are presented in this report whereas the results of previous consultation processes can be accessed from the 2006 EMPr. Process implemented:

Identification of known and other possible I&AP’s

Notification of registered I&AP’s via: o Background Information Document being emailed and made available online o Site notice being displayed at the mine entrance o Legal advert being published in a local newspaper o One on one meetings with surrounding land occupiers and the ward councillor o Public meeting being held

The draft amended EMPR was made available online and at the local library for public review for a period of 30 days

An I&AP register of comments and responses was maintained

Registered I&AP’s were notified of the submission of the final amended EMPR and the document was made available online


Results of the process:

I&AP AND MEANS OF CONSULTATION DATE ISSUE RAISED EAP’S RESPONSE

(AS MANDATED BY MINING RIGHT

HOLDER)

SECTION OF

REPORT IN WHICH

ISSUE IS

ADDRESSED Person consulted

Codes in

footer2

Date on which I&AP

response was received.

Summary provided below, written feedback as provided by I&AP is presented in Section0

Landowner / Lawful Occupiers of Land

Atoll Metal Recovery (Pty) Ltd E, M, PM

- Atoll is also the mining right holder and applicant therefore no issues raised.

- -

Lawful Occupiers of Adjacent Properties

Elematic SA (Pty) Ltd E, M - No issues raised - -

Soil King (Pty) Ltd E, M - No issues raised - -

Pronto Readymix (Pty) Ltd E, HL - No issues raised - -

Icon Bricks (Pty) Ltd E, HL 20/01/2018

Mr Spencer Haydock indicated that after reviewing the documentation, the proposed amendments do not impose immediate or future issues for the Icon Bricks operation. He also requested to be removed from the mailing list for any further notifications.

Mr Haydock’s comments are acknowledged and Icon Bricks have been removed from the I&AP list.

Section 12.2.1

Municipality

Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality Environmental Resource Management

E 21/02/2018

All mitigation measures contained in the amended EMPR must be implemented on site

Monitoring, as described in the amended EMPR must be implemented and adhered to on site

Atoll is committed to implementing all internal process to ensure that mitigation and monitoring commitments contained in the amended EMPR are realised. This will also be assessed externally during the biannual environmental audit.

Section 7

Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality

Waste Management Services E 08/03/2018

Comments were received regarding the waste management section of the amended EMPR.

Although none of the commitments pertaining to waste management were amended from the approved EMPR, the comments

Section 7.3.8

2 HL=Hand delivered letter, M=One on one Meeting, PM=Public Meeting, T=Telephone, F=Fax




HOLDER)

SECTION OF

REPORT IN WHICH

ISSUE IS


Codes in

footer2

Date on which I&AP



(provided in full in Section 12.2.6) are valid and Zimibiwa Quarry will take heed of them.

Municipal Councillor

Cllr Mdletshe for Ward 73 E, M 22/01/2018 The Cllr raised a number of issues related to social and labour aspects.

It was explained that social and labour issues do not form part of the scope of the current amendment which only deals with the proposed amendments to the decommissioning and closure objectives. An introductory meeting was arranged between the Cllr and the mine to initiate cohesion on social and labour issues.

-

Organs of State & Other Competent Authorities Affected

Department of Mineral Resources E, HL 26/01/2018

The Regional Manager responded to Atoll’s notification of intent to amend the EMPR (submitted 17

th January 2018)

by indicating that the application to amend the EMPR will only be considered once it has been submitted in conjunction with a S102 application via SAMRAD.

The notification letter of intent to amend the EMPR was submitted to the Regional Manager as per regulation 37(1) of the EIA regulations 2014 (as amended). The amended EMPR will be submitted in conjunction with a S102 application via SAMRAD once the amended EMPR has been finalised.

-

Department of Water & Sanitation E No issues raised

Gauteng Department of Agriculture and Rural Development

E No issues raised

Department of Rural Development & Land E 19/02/2018 The office of the regional land claims The response from the Land -

Atoll Metal Recovery (Pty) Ltd – Zimbiwa Quarry March 2018 Environmental Management Programme report Page iii



HOLDER)

SECTION OF

REPORT IN WHICH

ISSUE IS


Codes in

footer2

Date on which I&AP



Reform commissioner confirmed that there is an existing land claim against the property on which the mining right is held. However the processing of these claims is subject to further parliamentary processes required to validate the claims

Claims Commissioner is noted and presented in Section 12.2.6 of this report.

Communities

Rynsoord E

PM

31/01/2018

07/02/2018

Mr Salim Dawood is a resident of Rynsoord and provided comments as the environmental liaison for Ward 73. Issues raised included security concerns, dust and noise.

Atoll acknowledges the concern around illegal mining in the area and employs private security to ensure that illegal miners are kept out of the Zimbiwa Quarry. The Quarry is committed to mitigating any dust and noise emissions from the operation and will continue to implement its environmental monitoring programme to ensure that dust and noise emissions are kept to within acceptable standards.

Section 7.8

Other I&AP

Blesbokspruit Catchment Forum E No issues raised

Group Five Construction (Pty) Ltd E No issues raised

Atoll Metal Recovery (Pty) Ltd – Zimbiwa Quarry March 2018 Environmental Management Programme report Page iv

Impact Assessment

ACTIVITY PHASE AREA ASPECT RESULTING IN AN IMPACT

Pollution of storm water

Fugitive dust emissions

Sound emissions

Altered aesthetics

Spill

1. Planning Operational

Within the mining right area (73ha)

- - - - -

2. Mining Operational

3. Processing Operational

4. Supporting services Operational

5. Concurrent rehabilitation Operational

6. Making the quarry pit safe Decommissioning

7. Removal of structures and foundations Decommissioning

8. Identifying and addressing areas of potential contamination Decommissioning

9. Profile and vegetate disturbed areas (outside the pit) Decommissioning

10. Monitoring and maintenance Post Closure - - - - -

Management Objectives

ASPECT - IMPACT MANNER OF

CONTROL COMPLIANCE WITH STANDARDS

Pollution of storm water

Avoid & manage GNR 704: Separating clean and dirty storm water.

Fugitive dust emissions

Avoid & manage GNR 827: Minimise fugitive dust emissions so that off-site dustfall rates do not exceed the non-residential / residential standard, as applicable.

Sound emissions Manage

GNR 154: Minimise sound emissions so that off-site sound levels are not increased by more than 7dB above the ambient.

SANS 10103: Minimise sound emissions so that off-site sound levels do not increase above the typical rating level for the relevant SANS guideline.

Altered aesthetics Manage Best Practice: Limit the visibility of the proposed activity.

Spills Avoid Best Practice: Handling of hydrocarbons and raw materials as per procedure designed to lower the probability of accidental spills.

Definitions: Avoid: Impact Management Actions ensure that the identified potential negative impact does not occur. Manage: Minimise (for negative impacts) / Enhance (for positive impacts) the significance of the identified potential impact by undertaking specific Impact Management Actions


Environmental Awareness Plan Environmental awareness of the employees at the mine is provided by implementing the environmental awareness training through the following methods:

Green area meetings.

Poster Campaign.

Environmental Management Training.

Induction Training. Financial Provisioning The Financial Provision Regulations (GN R1147

3) came into effect on the 20

th November 2015. These

regulations require a mining house to complete and update annually three reports pertaining to rehabilitation, decommissioning, closure and the financial provision required for these activities, namely;

Annual Rehabilitation Plan (Appendix 3 of GN R1147)

Final Rehabilitation, Decommissioning and Mine Closure Plan (Appendix 4 of GN R1147)

Environmental Risk Assessment Report (Appendix 5 of GN R1147). In order to avoid contradictory information in the EMPr and the Plans listed above (which are updated annually), details pertaining to concurrent rehabilitation, decommissioning and closure (i.e. specific activities, time frames, etc.) have not been included in the EMPr (which is not updated annually). Instead lists of potential activities and / or objectives are included as per the proposed amendments given in the Decommissioning, Final Rehabilitation and Closure section above.

3 Regulations Pertaining to the “Financial Provision for Prospecting, Exploration, Mining and Production Operations”; published in

November 2015, in terms of the NEMA as amended


TABLE OF CONTENTS

1 INTRODUCTION .......................................................................................................... 1.1

1.1 Project Summary ........................................................................................................................ 1.1

1.2 Details and Expertise of the Environmental Assessment Practitioner Appendix 4(1)(a) . 1.1

1.3 Contact Details ........................................................................................................................... 1.2

1.4 Location of Operation ................................................................................................................ 1.2

1.5 History and Background Information of the Mining Operation ............................................. 1.2

2 BASELINE DESCRIPTION ............................................................................................. 2.1

2.1 Current Status of the Site and Surrounds ............................................................................... 2.1

2.2 Sensitivity Map ......................................................................................................................... 2.35

3 CONSULTATION PROCESS REGULATION 32(1) ........................................................ 3.1

3.1 Identification of I&AP ................................................................................................................. 3.1

3.2 Notification and Communication with I&AP ............................................................................ 3.1

3.3 Comments and Response ......................................................................................................... 3.2

4 OVERVIEW OF MINING ACTIVITIES [APPENDIX 4(1)(B)] .............................................. 4.1

4.1 Construction Phase .................................................................................................................... 4.1

4.2 Operational Phase ...................................................................................................................... 4.1

4.3 Supporting Services and Activities .......................................................................................... 4.3

4.4 Environmental Emergency Incidents and / or Accidents ....................................................... 4.5

4.5 Rehabilitation, Decommissioning and Closure ....................................................................... 4.6

4.6 Overlay of Activities on the Sensitivity Map ............................................................................ 4.7

5 ASPECT AND IMPACT IDENTIFICATION AND EVALUATION ............................................... 5.1

5.1 Explanation of the Environmental Impact Assessment Tool................................................. 5.1

6 ENVIRONMENTAL GOALS AND OBJECTIVES ................................................................. 6.1

6.1 Environmental Legislation ........................................................................................................ 6.1

6.2 Socio-economic Goals and Objectives .................................................................................... 6.5

6.3 Heritage Goals and Objectives ................................................................................................. 6.5

6.4 Closure Goals and Objectives .................................................................................................. 6.5

7 IMPACT MANAGEMENT AND COMPLIANCE ..................................................................... 7.1

7.1 Environmental Management During the Construction Phase ............................................... 7.2

7.2 Environmental Management During the Operational Phase.................................................. 7.2

7.3 Supporting Services and Activities .......................................................................................... 7.6

7.4 Emergency Incidents and / or Accidents ............................................................................... 7.17

7.5 Socio-economic Aspects ......................................................................................................... 7.19

7.6 Decommissioning and Closure ............................................................................................... 7.19

7.7 Environmental Impact Statement (Evaluation) ...................................................................... 7.20

7.8 Monitoring and EMP Performance Assessment ................................................................... 7.26

8 ENVIRONMENTAL AWARENESS PLAN APPENDIX 4(1)(M) ........................................... 8.1

8.1 Green Area Meetings.................................................................................................................. 8.1

8.2 Poster Campaign ........................................................................................................................ 8.3

8.3 Environmental Management Programme Training ................................................................. 8.3

8.4 Induction Training ...................................................................................................................... 8.3

9 SPECIFIC INFORMATION REQUIRED BY THE COMPETENT AUTHORITY APPENDIX 4(1)(N) .. 9.1

10 DECLARATIONS ....................................................................................................... 10.1

Atoll Metal Recovery (Pty) Ltd – Zimbiwa Quarry March 2018 Environmental Management Programme report Page iii

11 REFERENCES .......................................................................................................... 11.1

12 TECHNICAL REPORTS AND SUPPORTING INFORMATION .............................................. 12.1

12.1 Supporting Information as Proof of Details and Expertise of EAP ................................... 12.1

12.2 Public Participation Process ................................................................................................ 12.1

12.3 Environmental Impact Assessment ..................................................................................... 12.1

12.4 Red Data Bird Habitat Assessment. ................................................................................... 12.28

12.5 Flora Assessment for Zimbiwa Resources Proposed Mining Area. ............................... 12.29

12.6 Stormwater Management Plan. ........................................................................................... 12.30

12.7 Stormwater Management Report. ....................................................................................... 12.31

12.8 Information from Geohydrological Assessment .............................................................. 12.32

12.9 Air Quality Impact Assessment. ......................................................................................... 12.33

12.10 Noise Impact Study. ...................................................................................................... 12.34

12.11 Noise Survey. ................................................................................................................. 12.35

12.12 Blasting Information. ..................................................................................................... 12.36

12.13 Communication - Erik. ................................................................................................... 12.37

12.14 Historic Blasting Report. ............................................................................................... 12.38

12.15 House Inspection Report. ............................................................................................. 12.39

12.16 Communication – Biran Peters. ................................................................................... 12.40

12.17 WULA Pre-Application. ................................................................................................. 12.41

12.18 Communication - Patrick. ............................................................................................. 12.42

12.19 Site Layout Plan ............................................................................................................. 12.43

Atoll Metal Recovery (Pty) Ltd – Zimbiwa Quarry March 2018 Environmental Management Programme report Page iv

LIST OF FIGURES Figure 1.1: Locality map showing the location of the Zimbiwa Quarry in relation to major roads and neighbouring towns. .................................................................................................................................. 1.2 Figure 1.2: Illustration of the extent of the mining right GP085MR (based on the regulation 2(2) plan). . 1.3 Figure 2.1: The population density within the EMM (STATS SA, 2001). ................................................. 2.2 Figure 2.2: The population dominance within the EMM (STATS SA, 2001). ........................................... 2.2 Figure 2.3: The spatial distribution of dwelling types within the EMM (STATS SA, 2001). ...................... 2.5 Figure 2.4: Dominant sources of energy used for cooking within EMM, during 2001 (STATS SA, 2001). ................................................................................................................................................................... 2.6 Figure 2.5: Dominant sources of energy used for lighting within EMM, during 2001 (STATS SA, 2001). 2.7 Figure 2.6: An aerial photo of the landscape surrounding the Zimbiwa mining operations. (Aerial photo from Google Earth). ................................................................................................................................... 2.8 Figure 2.7: An aerial view of the crushing operation. ............................................................................... 2.8 Figure 2.8: A view of the canal on the eastern side of the mining areas. ................................................ 2.9 Figure 2.9: A closer view of the locality map with contour lines highlighted in yellow. ............................ 2.9 Figure 2.10: Topography of the site in 2006 (Brooker, 2006). ............................................................... 2.10 Figure 2.11: Geology plan of mining application area (Source: Zimbiwa Resources Limited, 2006b). . 2.11 Figure 2.12: East-west section of existing pit showing Karoo, Dolerite, and Dolomite layers (Zimbiwa, 2006b)...................................................................................................................................................... 2.12 Figure 2.13: South-north section of existing pit, showing Karoo, Dolerite and Dolomite layers (Zimbiwa, 2006b)...................................................................................................................................................... 2.13 Figure 2.14: Areas of moderate to high agricultural value in Gauteng (GDARD, 2004). ....................... 2.14 Figure 2.15: 1:50 year floodline of the Blesbokspruit. ............................................................................ 2.21 Figure 2.16: Long-term monthly maximum, minimum and mean temperatures recorded for the SAWS station at the O.R. Tambo International Airport, between 1961 and 1990. ............................................. 2.24 Figure 2.17: The long-term (1961 - 1990) and more recent (1990 - 2003) average rainfall and average number of rain-days recorded for the SAWS station at the O.R. Tambo International Airport. .............. 2.25 Figure 2.18: Mean monthly evaporation recorded for the Irene station, for the period 1957 to 1987. ... 2.27 Figure 2.19: Annual average wind rose recorded for the SAWS station at the O.R. Tambo International Airport, for the period 1989 to 2003. ........................................................................................................ 2.28 Figure 2.20: Monthly average wind rose recorded for the SAWS station at the O.R. Tambo International Airport, for the period 1989 to 2003. ........................................................................................................ 2.30 Figure 2.21: Aerial photo showing neighbouring land uses and the area disturbed through mining related activities at Zimbiwa Quarry. ................................................................................................................... 2.34 Figure 2.22: Environmental Sensitivity Map for Zimbiwa Quarry and surrounding areas. ...................... 2.35 Figure 4.1: Overlay of the Activities on the Sensitivity Map ...................................................................... 4.7 Figure 5.1: An example of an Impact Significance hart with Consequence plotted as a function of Probable Frequency, with regions of varying significance. ....................................................................... 5.4 Figure 7.1: Examples of gulley erosion control (Armour and Russell, 1998). ......................................... 7.10 Figure 7.2: Location of the dustfall monitoring stations. .......................................................................... 7.27 Figure 7.3: Surface water quality monitoring points. ............................................................................... 7.32 Figure 12.1: Monthly ingress from the pit at present and anticipated ingress at the end of life of mine, assuming no mitigation (generated from figures provided in Section 12.8). ......................................... 12.18 Figure 12.2: Percentage of the total particulate emissions from the mine operations alone (crushing and mining) and from cumulative sources. (Percentages taken from Liebenberg-Enslin, 2006.) .............. 12.24

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LIST OF TABLES Table 2.1: Number of people in each population group within the EMM, during 2001 (STATS SA, 2001). ................................................................................................................................................................... 2.2 Table 2.2: Highest education levels attained for EMM and Ward 73, as of 2001 (STATS SA, 2001). .... 2.3 Table 2.3: Economic sectors within Ward 73 (Koen, 2006). .................................................................... 2.3 Table 2.4: Employment status of labour force for EMM, during 2001 (STATS SA, 2001). ...................... 2.4 Table 2.5: Sectoral employment in the study area and EMM 2001 (STATS SA, 2001). ......................... 2.4 Table 2.6: Dominant dwelling types in EMM, during 2001 (STATS SA, 2001). ....................................... 2.4 Table 2.7: Type of water supply to households within EMM, during 2001 (STATS SA, 2001). ............... 2.5 Table 2.8: Toilet facilities available to households in EMM, during 2001 (STATS SA, 2001). ................. 2.6 Table 2.9: Energy sources for cooking and lighting within households in EMM, during 2001 (STATS SA, 2001). ......................................................................................................................................................... 2.6 Table 2.10: Refuse remove methods for households in EMM, during 2001 (STATS SA, 2001). ............ 2.7 Table 2.11: Telephone facilities available to households in EMM, during 2001 (STATS SA, 2001). ...... 2.7 Table 2.12: Soil type and characteristics in region of Zimbiwa Quarry. ................................................. 2.13 Table 2.13: Red data mammal species listed as occurring in Gauteng and the likelihood of occurrence on-site. ..................................................................................................................................................... 2.16 Table 2.14: Likelihood of Gauteng priority bird species occurring on the mining site and within 500m of the site. .......................................................................................................................................................... 2.17 Table 2.15: Invertebrate species of conservation concern identified as occurring the quarter degree square 2628AB and their potential for occurrence on-site. ..................................................................... 2.18 Table 2.16: Catchment area characteristics of quaternary catchment C21D, according to Midgley et al., 1994a and Midgley et al., 1994b. ............................................................................................................ 2.19 Table 2.17: Instream water quality results for the Blesbokspruit............................................................. 2.20 Table 2.18: Groundwater quality in the underground workings (Jones and Wagener, 2005). ............... 2.23 Table 2.19: Long-term 24-hour maximum, monthly maximum and monthly minimum rainfalls recorded for the SAWS station at the O.R. Tambo International Airport, between 1961 and 1990. ........................... 2.25 Table 2.20: Maximum rainfall intensities recorded for the SAWS station at the O.R. Tambo International Airport, between 1972 and 2001. ............................................................................................................ 2.26 Table 2.21: Incidents of extreme weather conditions recorded for the SAWS station at the O.R. Tambo International Airport, for the period 1961 to 1990. ................................................................................... 2.26 Table 2.22: Comparison of rainfall and evaporation data recorded for the SAWS station at the O.R. Tambo International Airport, for the period 1957 to 1987. ...................................................................... 2.27 Table 2.23: Typical outdoor ambient noise levels in various districts. Average level over various periods during a 24-hour day. Measured in dB (SANS 10103). ........................................................................... 2.33 Table 2.24: Measured ambient noise levels (27

th to 29

th August 2006). ................................................ 2.33

Table 3.1: Comments and Response ........................................................................................................ 3.3 Table 5.1: Scoring for environment impact assessment criteria. .............................................................. 5.3 Table 7.1: Schedule for erosion monitoring. .............................................................................................. 7.8 Table 7.2: Separation of pre-classified waste into General and Hazardous waste categories as defined by NEM: WA. ................................................................................................................................................ 7.15 Table 7.3: Bands of dustfall rates proposed in SANS 1929. ................................................................... 7.27 Table 7.4: Target, action and alert thresholds for ambient dustfall proposed in SANS 1929. ................ 7.28 Table 7.5: Typical outdoor ambient noise levels in various districts. Average level over various periods during a 24-hour day. Measured in dB (SANS 10103) ............................................................................ 7.29 Table 12.1: Maximum PM10 daily concentrations (μg/m

3) and dustfall rates (mg/m

2/day) due the

operational phase at the mine and the existing crushing operation (Liebenberg-Enslin, 2006). .......... 12.22 Table 12.2: Ranking of sources of emissions based on their percentage contribution to emissions (adapted from Liebenberg-Enslin, 2006). .............................................................................................. 12.24 Table 12.3: Expected community response to an increase in ambient noise level (SANS 10103), taken from van Zyl (2006). .............................................................................................................................. 12.26

Atoll Metal Recovery (Pty) Ltd – Zimbiwa Quarry March 2018 Environmental Management Programme report Page vi

ABBREVIATIONS

CBD Central Business District

c.v. Curriculum vitae

DAERD Department of Agriculture, Environmental Affairs and Rural Development

DMR Department of Mineral Resources

DWS Department of Water and Sanitation

EAP Environmental Assessment Practitioner

EIA Environmental Impacts Assessment

ECA. Environment and Conservation Act, Act No. 73 of 1989

EMPr Environmental Management Programme report

FEL Front-end-loader

ISP Intermediate Stockpile

I&AP Interested and Affected Party

LoM Life of Mine

mamsl Meters above mean sea level

MPRDA Minerals and Petroleum Resource Development Act, Act No. 28 of 2002, as amended

NEMA of 1998 National Environmental Management Act, Act No. 107 of 1998, as amended

NEM:AQA. National Environmental Management: Air Quality Act, Act No. 39 of 2004

NEM:WA National Environmental Management: Waste Act, Act No. 59 of 2008

NWA National Water Act, Act No. 36 of 1998

qds Quarter degree square

ROM Run of Mine

SABAP South African Bird Atlas Projects

SAWS South African Weather Services

SWMP Storm Water Management Plan

WMA Water Management Area

Atoll Metal Recovery (Pty) Ltd – Zimbiwa Quarry March 2018 Environmental Management Programme report Page vii

REPORT STRUCTURE – COMPLIANCE WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF APPENDIX 4 OF GNR 982 The process for the amendment of an Environmental Management Programme report (EMPr)

4 is

described in Chapter 5 of the Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations, 2014 (GN R982) as amended. The report structure for an EMPr is documented in Appendix 4 of the above mentioned regulations. In order to demonstrate compliance with the requirement of Appendix 4, the table below provides the report outline of where the report covers each aspect of the regulations.

LEGAL REQUIREMENTS AS PER APPENDIX 4 OF GNR 982 SECTION IN REPORT

(1)(a)(i) Details of the EAP who prepared the EMPr Section 1.2

(1)(a)(ii) Expertise of the EAP who prepared the EMPr (including a c.v.) Section 12.1

(1)(b) Detailed description of the aspects of the activity that are covered by the EMPr (as identified by the project description)

Section 4

(1)(c)

A map at an appropriate scale which superimposes the proposed activity, its associated structures, and infrastructure on the environmental sensitivities of the preferred site, indicating any areas that should be avoided, including buffers.

Section 4.6

(1)(d)

A description of impact management objectives, including management statements, identifying the impacts and risks that need to be avoided, managed and mitigated as identified through the environmental impact assessment process for all phases of the development, including;

Planning and design, Pre-construction activities, Construction activities, Rehabilitation of the environment after construction and where

applicable post closure, and Where relevant, operational activities.

Section 12.3

(1)(e) A description and identification of impact management outcomes required for the aspects contemplated in paragraph (d).

(1)(f) A description of the impact management actions identifying the manner in which the impact management objectives and outcomes contemplated in paragraph (d) and (e) will be achieved, and must, include actions to;

i) Avoid, modify, remedy, control or stop any action, activity or

process which causes pollution or environmental degradation,

ii) Comply with any prescribed environmental management

standards or practices,

iii) Comply with any applicable provisions of the Act regarding

closure, where applicable, and

iv) Comply with any applicable provisions of the Act regarding

financial provision for rehabilitation, where applicable.

(1)(g) The method of monitoring the implementation of the impact management actions contemplated in paragraph (f).

Section 7

(1)(h) The frequency of monitoring the implementation of the impact management actions contemplated in paragraph (f).

(1)(i) An indication of the person who will be responsible for the implementation of the impact management actions.

(1)(j) The time period within which the impact management actions contemplated in paragraph (f) must be implemented.

(1)(k) The mechanism of monitoring the compliance with the impact management actions contemplated in paragraph (f).

(1)(l) A programme for reporting on compliance (taking into account the requirements as prescribed by the Regulations).

(1)(m)

An environmental awareness plan describing the manner in which; i) The applicant intends to inform his or her employees of any

environmental risk which may result from their work, and ii) Risks must be dealt with in order to avoid pollution or

degradation of the environment.

Section 8

(1)(n) Any specific information that may be required by the competent authority.

Section 9

4 An approved EMPr is considered to be the environmental authorisation for a mining operation.

Atoll Metal Recovery (Pty) Ltd – Zimbiwa Quarry March 2018 Environmental Management Programme report Page 1.1

1 INTRODUCTION

Zimbiwa Quarry is an existing aggregate mining operation where mining takes place through traditional open cast drilling and blasting techniques and various products are processed from a crushing and screening plant which services the local and regional construction industry. The quarry currently operates under a new order mining right with reference number GP 085 MR. The mining right is valid until 2037 and extends over an area of 73.1541 ha. The operation has an approved Environmental Management Programme report (EMPr), with amendments signed 29

th May 2007 (Randell and Robinson, 2006). This

current document dated January 2018 presents further proposed amendments to the aforementioned approved EMPr.

1.1 PROJECT SUMMARY Atoll Metal Recovery (Pty) Ltd (Atoll) recently acquired ownership of the Zimbiwa Quarry operation (all assets, landownership and mineral rights) and after reviewing the approved EMPr they came to the realisation that the stipulated decommissioning and closure commitments therein were unrealistic. Atoll therefore enquired with the Regional Manager of the Gauteng Department of Mineral Resources (DMR) to amend the approved EMPr to reflect their preferred intentions for decommissioning and closure. A meeting was held at the DMR with Mr Musa Mangobe on the 18

th July 2017 to discuss the proposed amendments

during which it was agreed by all parties present that as it is only the decommissioning and closure sections that require amendment, the content of the approved EMPr (Randell and Robinson, 2006) would be simply transferred to a document that satisfies the currently legislated requirements (Appendix 4 of the Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations, 2014 (GN R982) as amended

5), and the necessary content

on decommissioning and closure would be amended. It was also agreed that the amended document would be made available for public review to ensure that Interested and Affected Parties have an opportunity to consider the proposed amendments and provide their input.

1.2 DETAILS AND EXPERTISE OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT PRACTITIONER Appendix 4(1)(a)

COMPANY DETAILS:

Company: Umhlaba Environmental Consulting CC

Registration Number: 2004/002962/23

Contact Details: Tel: 011 791 3389 Fax: 011 791 3384

E-mail: [email protected]

Company Profile: Umhlaba Environmental Consulting CC company profile is attached in Section 12.1. Included in the profile is a list of the services offered by the company and the projects undertaken since 2004.

DETAILS AND EXPERTISE OF EAP:

Compiler: Greg Coates

Qualifications: BSc (Agric) in Wildlife Science

MSc in Zoology

Work experience: Four years in the field of environmental consulting.

Greg Coates has been involved in the compilation of ~12 Environmental Management Programmes and/or EMPlans for mining operations and undertaken ~25 Environmental Performance Assessment audits of mining operations. A detailed CV of the EAP is provided in Section 12.1.

Reviewer: Andrew Nicholson

Qualifications: BSc Honours in Biological Sciences

Post Graduate Diploma in Natural Resources Management

Work experience: Fourteen years in the field of environmental consulting. Andrew Nicholson has compiled and or managed the compilation of more than 25 Environmental Management Programmes for mining operations and undertaken more than 60 Environmental Audits of mining operations.

5 Amendments of April 2017.

mailto:[email protected]


1.3 CONTACT DETAILS

MINING RIGHT HOLDER AND LANDOWNER:

Company: Atoll Metal Recovery (Pty) Ltd

Mining Right : GP 085 MR

MINE OPERATOR:

Company: Atoll Mining (Pty) Ltd

Contact Person: Works Manager Chief Safety Officer

Tel: 0861 088 886 0861 088 886

Fax: 0866 534 332 0866 534 332

Address: Main Reef Road (R29), Rynsnoord, Benoni, 1503

1.4 LOCATION OF OPERATION The areas included in the Mining Right forms part of the remaining extent of Portion 43 (a portion of Portion 3) of the Farm Modderfontein 76 IR, in the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality (EMM). The quarry (Figure 1.1) is located south of the N12 highway and in close proximity to the residential settlements of New Modder and Rynsoord to the west, Kingsway to the east and Brakpan North to the south. Larger towns near the site are Benoni (7km to the east) and Brakpan (4km to the south).

Figure 1.1: Locality map showing the location of the Zimbiwa Quarry in relation to major roads and neighbouring towns.

1.5 HISTORY AND BACKGROUND INFORMATION OF THE MINING OPERATION Originally the property was subjected to open cast gold mining operations by Petrex (Pty) Ltd (now known as Aurora). Mining activities at this site were undertaken to gain access to the gold bearing Black Reef that lies below a vertical sequence of Karoo overburden, dolerite, and dolomite.


As part of this mining operation, Petrex were dumping the dolerite and dolomite in waste stockpiles (as these materials were considered waste for the gold-mining operation). This dolerite and dolomite waste was then being crushed and screened by Ekurhuleni Dolomite (Pty) Ltd (trading as Zimbiwa Dolomite). The crushing and screening of the waste rock dumps is covered under mining right conversion reference number GP 261 MR. Petrex decided to halt open cast gold mining operation resulting in the supply of rock for future crushing to be stopped. Rather than closing the crushing operation a mining right application was submitted and approved for the continued quarrying of the dolerite and dolomite from the existing pit in order to extend the life of the crushing plant. The mining right with reference number GP 085 MR was awarded to Zimbiwa Resources (Pty) Ltd (Zimbiwa Resources). The Zimbiwa Quarry operation therefore included the activities covered under both GP 261 MR and GP 085 MR. Group Five Construction (Pty) Ltd acquired both Ekurhuleni Dolomite (Pty) Ltd and Zimbiwa Resources (Pty) Ltd and operated the mine until they opted to contract the operating of the mine to Atoll Mining (Pty) Ltd. Atoll Metal Recovery (Pty) Ltd acquired Zimbiwa Resources (Pty) Ltd and the associated mineral right GP 085 MR from Group Five in 2017 and Group Five has applied for closure of the mineral right associated with Ekurhuleni Dolomite (Pty) Ltd (GP 261 MR). The Zimbiwa Quarry is therefore currently owned by Atoll Metal Recovery (Pty) Ltd and the mining activities are contracted and carried out by Atoll Mining (Pty) Ltd with the only relevant mineral authorisation being GP 085 MR (see Figure 1.2 below).

Figure 1.2: Illustration of the extent of the mining right GP085MR (based on the regulation 2(2) plan).


2 BASELINE DESCRIPTION

The purpose of this section of the report is to provide input into the evaluation of known / anticipated environmental impacts on the receiving environment. Therefore, the Baseline Description / description of the receiving environment is a depiction of the current status of the site as it exists at the time of writing the EMPr and does not provide information of the status of the site prior to mining. This section relies on existing available information and no new specialist studies have been commissioned for this EMPr amendment. Where other reports have been used, they have been referenced at the beginning of the applicable section. The mining activities are restricted to the mining right area (Figure 2.21). Therefore, the Baseline Description presented in this EMPr has focussed on the area intended to be disturbed and immediately adjacent / neighbouring area if applicable to the impact evaluation. A Sensitivity Map (representing a summary of the Baseline Description) is provided at the end of this section in Figure 2.22.

2.1 CURRENT STATUS OF THE SITE AND SURROUNDS

2.1.1 Regional Socio-economic Structure

The mine is located within Gauteng Province which is the smallest of all nine provinces but is home to approximately eight million people. Gauteng is considered the economic hub of South Africa, accounting for 33% of South Africa’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Gauteng is a rapidly growing province, due to mass urbanization (a feature of many developing countries). According to the State of the Cities Report, the urban portion of Gauteng comprised primarily the City of Johannesburg, Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality (the East Rand) and Tshwane (Pretoria). (Information obtained from the Social and Labour Plan). The mine falls within the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality (EMM) and are therefore within the urbanised area of Gauteng Province. Although the property falls within Ward 73 of EMM, the area over which the mine will have a socio-economic impact extends beyond the boundaries of this ward, and possibly beyond the boundaries of the EMM. Therefore, the socio-economic information presented in this section of the report covers Ward 73, where applicable, but predominantly the EMM and Gauteng. Note: Statistical information and related maps provided in this section of the report have been obtained from the Statistics South Africa web page (web address provided in Section 11, Reference List) and from the amended Social and Labour Plan (Koen, 2006 and Zimbiwa Resources, 2010).

Population Density and Growth

The population density within the vicinity of the mine varies (Figure 2.1). In the areas north and south of the operations where there are no residential settlements close to the property boundaries, and the population density does not exceed 1 925 persons per km

2. However, east and west of the property where Kingsway

and Rynsoord are situated respectively, the population density is between 5 438 and 10 264 persons per km

2 in Kingsway and between 1 925 and 5 437 persons per km

2 within Rynsoord.

The number of people in each population group, within the EMM, is presented in Table 2.1, and the distribution of these population groups is presented spatially in Figure 2.2. Within the communities adjacent to the quarry (Ward 73), there are approximately 30 000 people residing, with the most dominant population group in EMM and in Ward 73 being Africans (76% and 65% of the population, respectively). Between 1996 and 2001, the population density in EMM increased by 126%. During this period, the only population group to have decreased in number is the White population, with all other population groups increased by more than 90%.

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


Figure 2.1: The population density within the EMM (STATS SA, 2001).

Table 2.1: Number of people in each population group within the EMM, during 2001 (STATS SA, 2001).

POPULATION GROUP NO. OF PERSONS PERCENTAGE

Black African 1 891 462 76.26%

Coloured 67 060 2.70%

Indian 39 666 1.60%

White 482 089 19.44%

Total Population 2 480 277

Figure 2.2: The population dominance within the EMM (STATS SA, 2001).

Zimbiwa mining operations



Education

Within EMM, 9% of the population have no schooling, while 12% have attended primary school and 6% have completed primary school (Table 2.2). The functional literacy of the study area (Ward 73) is higher to that of the rest of the EMM. In 2001, approximately 50% of the adult population was considered to be functionally numerate and literate (in possession of at least Grade 9). However, only 5% of the population over the age of 20 years has received tertiary education, compared with 10% within the EMM as a whole. The level of education within EMM contributes to the levels of unemployment within the area, as it is more difficult for uneducated persons to find employment. It is encouraging to see that 37% of the population in EMM and 29% of the population in Ward 73 have grade 12 or tertiary education, which is higher than and equal to the national figures (29%), but lower than the provincial figures (40%). The higher education levels within Gauteng and EMM, compared with the national figures, is possibly due to the availability of education facilities within urban centres, compared with the country as a whole. The majority of the population within the study area is aged between 15 and 34 (47%) and between 35 and 64 (28%). These age brackets constitute the economically active people within the study area.

Table 2.2: Highest education levels attained for EMM and Ward 73, as of 2001 (STATS SA, 2001).

EDUCATION LEVELS EMM - PERCENTAGE WARD 73 - PERCENTAGE

No Schooling 9.25% 9.7%

Some Primary 11.56% 14.6%

Complete Primary 5.72% 6.7%

Some Secondary 35.99% 39.6%

Grade 12 / Standard 10 27.53% 24.2%

Higher/Tertiary Education 9.95% 5.1%

Employment Figures for the Area

Based on Table 2.3, it is evident that the key economic sectors within the study area is manufacturing, followed by the wholesale and retail industry. The business and community services as well as mining and quarry also make a significant contribution to the local economy. Companies related to the building industry are prominently located within the study area. There are also a number of mining related industries in the area, with Aflease Gold, Pamodzi and AngloGold-Ashanti having operations within and adjacent to the study area. In addition, the town of Brakpan not only hosts Carnival City with its associated casino and entertainment facilities, but its city centre is populated with small to medium sized manufacturing and retail industries (Koen, 2006).

Table 2.3: Economic sectors within Ward 73 (Koen, 2006).

SECTOR PERCENTAGE

Agricultural relate work 1.2%

Mining and Quarrying 8.8%

Manufacturing 18.1%

Electric, gas, water 0.4%

Construction 7.6%

Wholesale and Retail 15.8%

Transport and Communication 5.4%

Business Services 10.3%

Community Services 11.3%

Private Household 10.7%

Undetermined 10.4%

Employment rate in EMM during 2001 was just below 60%, leaving a very large percentage of the population without a reliable source of income (Table 2.4). These figures are similar to the national unemployment figure of 42% (during 2001).


Table 2.4: Employment status of labour force for EMM, during 2001 (STATS SA, 2001).

LABOUR MARKET STATUS PERSONS PERCENTAGE

Employed 761 048 59.59%

Unemployed 516 011 40.41%

Not economically active 514 444

Total labour force 1 277 059

According to the 2001 census data, the study area had an unemployment rate of 26% (lower than the EMM). With the majority of the employed based in the manufacturing as well as the wholesale and retail trade sectors. While some of these people will have alternative sources of income, for example in the informal sector, seasonal farming and through government welfare grants, these sources are likely to be insecure. The statistics indicate severe economic problems within the study area (Koen, 2006).

Table 2.5: Sectoral employment in the study area and EMM 2001 (STATS SA, 2001).

SECTOR EMM - PERCENTAGE WARD 73 - PERCENTAGE

Agriculture, hunting, forestry and fishing 2% 1.2%

Community, social and personal services 15% 8.8%

Construction 6% 18.1%

Electricity, gas and water supply <1% 0.4%

Financial, insurance, real estate and business services 12% 7.6%

Manufacturing 19% 15.8%

Mining and quarrying 2% 5.4%

Private households 8% 10.3%

Transport, storage and communication 8% 11.3%

Wholesale and retail trade 17% 10.7%

Undetermined 10% 10.4%

It is reported that unemployment in the study area, has resulted in a dramatic rise in poverty levels, with implications for people’s health (particularly for vulnerable groups like the elderly and children) and mental wellbeing (specifically for family heads that are tasked by society to ensure the survival of their families). It is reported that increased poverty

6 has also resulted in a rise in crime, including violent crimes (although not

highly organised), and social conflict, such as child abuse, women abuse and family violence and breakdown.

Housing

The majority of dwelling types in EMM (nearly 70%) are formal structures, with about 30% being informal (Table 2.6). Based on observations during the site visit to the mining area, the majority of dwellings around the site were formally constructed, although there was evidence of informal structures. A spatial representation of dwelling types can be seen in Figure 2.3, where it shows that informal dwellings dominate within the vicinity of the mine.

Table 2.6: Dominant dwelling types in EMM, during 2001 (STATS SA, 2001).

DOMINANT DWELLING TYPE HOUSEHOLDS PERCENTAGE

Formal 521 385 69.99%

Informal 213 091 28.60%

Traditional 8 068 1.08%

Other 2 391 0.32%

6 Poverty can be defined as lack of resources to meet basic needs, such as adequate food, clothing, shelter and basic amenities.


Figure 2.3: The spatial distribution of dwelling types within the EMM (STATS SA, 2001).

Services

The census data in this section gives an indication of how widely available basic services, such as water supply, electricity, sanitation, and communication are in the vicinity of the mining operation.

Water

Within the EMM, the vast majority of households (82%) either have their water piped directly to their dwellings, or to the yard outside their dwellings (Table 2.7). Approximately 16% have to retrieve their water from community stands. Everyone should ultimately have access to running, preferably potable water in their household, and as such much work is still to be done (although a great deal of progress has been made since the previous census in 1996).

Table 2.7: Type of water supply to households within EMM, during 2001 (STATS SA, 2001).

MAIN WATER SUPPLY HOUSEHOLDS PERCENTAGE

Piped Water to the Dwelling 315 704 42.38%

Piped Water inside yard 294 383 39.52%

Piped Water to Community Stand < 200m 58 446 7.85%

Piped Water to Community Stand > 200m 64 164 8.61%

Borehole 891 >0.2%

Spring 45 >0.2%

Rain-water Tank 531 >0.2%

Dam/pool/stagnant water 504 >0.2%

River/stream 126 >0.2%

Water vendor 1 245 1.19%

Sanitation

The majority of households within EMM have flush toilets (Table 2.8). This high percentage correlates to the dominance of formal housing within the municipality (Table 2.6) and the availability of water within the dwelling (Table 2.7). However, since the dominant housing type in the vicinity of the mine is informal (Figure 2.3), there is a good chance that the sanitation facilities in this area are also informal in nature. Within the municipality, the next most common sanitation facility is a pit latrine without ventilation (Table 2.8). An alarming 5% of household have no sanitation facilities whatsoever at their disposal.



Table 2.8: Toilet facilities available to households in EMM, during 2001 (STATS SA, 2001).

TOILET FACILITY HOUSEHOLDS PERCENTAGE

Flush toilet (connected to sewerage) 605 250 81.24%

Flush toilet (with septic tank) 9 469 1.27%

Chemical Toilet 3 973 0.53%

Pit latrine with ventilation (VIP) 7 126 0.95%

Pit latrine without ventilation 74 321 9.98%

Bucket latrine 6 697 0.90%

None 38 099 5.11%

Power Supply

Electricity is the dominant source of energy in EMM for both cooking and lighting (Table 2.9). However, within the vicinity of the mine, paraffin is the dominant source of fuel for cooking (Figure 2.4) and candles are used as the most common source of light (Figure 2.5). Within the municipality, paraffin and then coal are the next major contenders in energy consumption used for cooking, which will contribute to air pollution levels during winter. As with the mining area, using candles is the next most common source of lighting (Table 2.9).

Table 2.9: Energy sources for cooking and lighting within households in EMM, during 2001 (STATS SA, 2001).

ENERGY SOURCE HOUSEHOLDS USING ENERGY SOURCE FOR

COOKING HOUSEHOLDS USING ENERGY SOURCE FOR

LIGHTING

Electricity 488 909 65.63% Electricity 488 909

Gas 7 262 0.97% Gas 7 262

Paraffin 190 265 25.54% Paraffin 190 265

Wood 2 460 0.33% Wood 2 460

Coal 51 598 6.93% Coal 51 598

Animal dung 1 649 0.22% Animal dung 1 649

Solar 1 700 0.23% Solar 1 700

Candles Candles

Other 1 092 0.15% Other 1 092

Figure 2.4: Dominant sources of energy used for cooking within EMM, during 2001 (STATS SA, 2001).



Figure 2.5: Dominant sources of energy used for lighting within EMM, during 2001 (STATS SA, 2001). Refuse

Almost all households within EMM are provided with a refuse removal service (Table 2.10). Those households that the municipality does not service either make use of their own or a communal refuse dump. It is puzzling that some 20 000 households in EMM have no form of refuse disposal, making one wonder what it is that these households do with their refuse. Clearly this is a need is hoped to have been addressed since the 2001 census was taken.

Table 2.10: Refuse remove methods for households in EMM, during 2001 (STATS SA, 2001).

REFUSE REMOVAL METHOD HOUSEHOLDS PERCENTAGE

Removed by municipality weekly 655 309 87.97%

Removed by municipality less often 6 855 0.92%

Communal refuse dump 13 795 1.85%

Own refuse dump 48 957 6.57%

No rubbish disposal 20 020 2.69%

Telephone / Communication

Telecommunication infrastructure in EMM is poorly developed, although there may have been a great deal of progress since 2001, especially in the mobile phone sector. In 2001, almost half of the households in the municipality did not have direct access to a fixed telephone or cell phone, potentially causing members of such households to travel some distance to neighbours or public telephones (Table 2.11).

Table 2.11: Telephone facilities available to households in EMM, during 2001 (STATS SA, 2001).

TELEPHONE FACILITY HOUSEHOLDS PERCENTAGE

Telephone in dwelling and Cell phone 315 704 18.36%

Telephone in dwelling only 294 383 10.31%

Cell phone only 58 446 23.72%

At a neighbour nearby 64 164 2.90%

At a public telephone nearby 891 41.28%

At another location nearby 45 1.22%

At another location, not nearby 531 0.72%

No access to a telephone 504 1.49%



2.1.2 Regional and Local Setting

The landscape of the surrounding areas is typical of the East Rand, with mining dumps, and industrial infrastructure clearly visible (Figure 2.6). The property over which the Mining Rights occur supports the following mining operations:

Pamodzi goldmine, where mining activities were initially undertaken in the open cast pit (created the pit) but are currently occurring in the underground workings. There is an access point to these underground workings at the base of the pit.

The open cast pit, created by Pamodzi and currently being mined by Zimbiwa Resources (Mining Right GP 30/5/1/2/2(85) MR).

The Ekurhuleni Dolomite crushing plant (Mining Right GP 30/5/1/2/2 (216) MR) (Figure 2.7).

Figure 2.6: An aerial photo of the landscape surrounding the Zimbiwa mining operations. (Aerial photo from Google Earth

7).

Figure 2.7: An aerial view of the crushing operation.

7 Download the application for free from http://earth.google.com

Kingsway

Rynsoord

Brakpan North

Dersley

Main Reef Road

R51

Zimbiwa

Mining Area

http://earth.google.com/


The Blesbokspruit flows across the eastern side of the property (Figure 2.6). Due to the degree of ingress into Pamodzi underground workings, they obtained permission from the Department of Water Affairs (DWA) and the Gauteng Department of Agriculture and Rural development (GDARD) to canalise the river in an impervious canal (lined with clay). The current state of the canal is illustrated in Figure 2.8.

Figure 2.8: A view of the canal on the eastern side of the mining areas.

2.1.3 Sites of Archaeological or Cultural Interest

According to the Environmental Prospecting Plan submitted in October 2005 (GP 30/5/1/1/2(158) PR) there are no known archaeological or cultural sites of importance within the mining area.

2.1.4 Topography

The natural topography around the mining site is almost completely flat, with the contour lines to either side of the site being at an elevation of 1 600mamsl (Figure 2.9).

Figure 2.9: A closer view of the locality map with contour lines highlighted in yellow.


A more site specific analysis reveals that the topography of the site slopes south-eastwards, towards the Klein Blesbokspruit (indicated by the red and yellow 2m interval contours in Figure 2.10), with a slope of approximately 2.5% (Brooker, 2006). The current topography of the site is largely unnatural as a result of the mining activities (indicated by the black and grey 1m interval contours in Figure 2.10). Areas where mining related activities have taken place have resulted in steep gradients. These are most obvious on the sides of the pit, and on the sides of the dumps/stockpiles situated on all sides of the pit. The top of the stockpiles tend to be flat. Thus, the topography can be considered to be predominately flat, accentuated with steep gradients which terminate in small plateaux (i.e. the flat tops of the dumps).

Figure 2.10: Topography of the site in 2006 (Brooker, 2006).

2.1.5 Geology

The following geological information is sourced from Zimbiwa Resources (Pty) Ltd Application for Mining Right, compiled by Mineral Corporation (Zimbiwa Resources Limited, 2006b).

Regional Geology

Figure 2.11 gives an indication of the geology in the area surrounding the mining application area, with the application area indicated in red. The mining area is underlain by rocks of the Witwatersrand, Transvaal, and Karoo Supergroups. The Turffontein Subgroup makes up the Witwatersrand Supergroup in the area, while Black Reef and the Chuniespoort Group make up the Transvaal Supergroup. Constituents of the Dwyka and Vryheid Formations of the Karoo Supergroup overlay the Witwatersrand and Transvaal Supergroups.


Figure 2.11: Geology plan of mining application area (Source: Zimbiwa Resources Limited, 2006b).


The Turffontein Subgroup consists of quartzite, conglomerate and sandy shales. The Black Reef and dolomite of the Rooihoogte Formation overlie the Turffontein Subgroup. Diamictites of the Dwyka Formation overlie the dolomites in the area, with a flat-lying dolerite sill capping the dolomite over a portion of the farm Modderfontein 76 IR. The Black Reef consists of basal conglomerate, while quartzite overlying the Black Reef Conglomerate varies from 1m to 11m in thickness. The stratigraphy overlying the Black Reef Formation consists of dolomite, a dolerite intrusive sill and Karoo stratigraphy (Dwyka overlain with sandstone), as shown in Figure 2.12 and Figure 2.13. The lower dolomite is between 55m and 57m thick, with a 2m dolerite sill often located near the base of the dolomite. The dolomite is dark grey, bedded, and appears to be consistently uniform with very little shale. There is minor graphite associated with the bedding planes towards the lower part of the unit. Near the intrusive sill, the dolomite appears bleached. The upper part of the dolomite is often weathered to a wad where it occurs at shallow depths below the Karoo stratigraphy. The dolerite sill overlying the dolomite is between 39m and 48m thick. The dolerite is coarse grained massive with pink feldspar. The Karoo appears to truncate the underlying dolomite and dolerite layers, suggesting the sill is of pre-Karoo, possibly Pilansberg age. Other evidence for this is the thick lateritic weathering of the dolerite where it occurs beneath the Karoo. Towards the south and the south-west, the dolerite sill is overlain by a 12m to 15m thick dolomite layer. Finally, the Karoo is relatively uniformly developed throughout the site and is between 11.5m and 20m thick. See Figure 2.12 and Figure 2.13 for cross-sections of the existing open-cast mine geology.

Figure 2.12: East-west section of existing pit showing Karoo, Dolerite, and Dolomite layers (Zimbiwa, 2006b).


Figure 2.13: South-north section of existing pit, showing Karoo, Dolerite and Dolomite layers (Zimbiwa, 2006b).

2.1.6 Soil and Agricultural Potential

Although much of the site has been disturbed by previous mining activities, it is necessary to consider the pre-mining soils and agricultural potential of the site as it has reference to rehabilitation recommendations. A description of soils in the mining area (assuming no mining had taken place) and the soils’ suitability for agricultural purposes follows.

Description of Soils

Midgley et al. (1994a) describes the soils in the vicinity of the mine as moderate to deep, with clayey loam and undulating characteristics. There is no site-specific data with regard to soil types available (due to the disturbed nature of the site), but AGIS (2006) provides the following information about soils in the area (Table 2.12).

Table 2.12: Soil type and characteristics in region of Zimbiwa Quarry.

CHARACTERISTIC VALUE

Depth 450 to 750mm

Clay content 15 to 35 %

Soil description Red, yellow and greyish soils with low to medium base status

According to van der Watt and Van Rooyen (1995) base status is an indication of how seriously leached of nutrients a soil is and is calculated from the soil’s clay content and S-Value. A high base status indicates a naturally fertile soil, while a low base status indicates a heavily leached soil.

Agricultural Potential

According to the GDARD State of the Environment Report (2004), the area in which the mining operations lie has very little agricultural potential (Figure 2.14). The area in which the mines are located has a high erodability index (6), with the sediment yield of the quaternary catchment being 13 000t/a (Midgley et al., 1994b).


Figure 2.14: Areas of moderate to high agricultural value in Gauteng (GDARD, 2004).

The soil in the mining area has a low to medium base status (definition provided below Table 2.12). This implies that the soil in the mining area would not have been useful for agricultural purposes, even if the mines were not already established. With the mines in place, the potential for the soil having any agricultural potential, prior to rehabilitation, is minimal.

2.1.7 Ecology / Biodiversity

The environment within the mining area is vastly disturbed with very little natural habitat occurring. However, the following general biodiversity has been described for the area.

Fauna

Red Data Mammals

The red data mammal literature survey was undertaken using the following reference material:

Mammals of the Southern African Sub region, Third Edition (Skinner and Chimimba, 2005).

Red Data Book of the Mammals of South Africa: A conservation Assessment (EWT, 2004).

Smithers' Mammals of Southern Africa, A Field Guide (Smithers, 1996).

Field Guide Mammals of Southern Africa, (Stuart and Stuart, 1996).

Mammals of the Southern African Sub region, (Skinner and Smithers, 1990). Thirteen red data mammals are listed as occurring in the quarter degree square 2628AB, in which the mining area is situated. The suitability of the habitat on-site, and in the vicinity, has been assessed and the probability of these species occurring on-site, or within 500m of the site boundary, is evaluated in Table 2.13 According to Barnes (1998), the Blesbokspruit Important Bird Area (IBA) offers suitable habitat for the South African Hedgehog (Atelerix frontalis). However, the farm Modderfontein is considered to be too disturbed to offer suitable habitat, especially considering the proximity of current mining operations and residential areas (Figure 2.6), as well as the recent work conducted, confining the Klein Blesbokspruit into a canal.


Welwitsch’s Hairy Bat (Myotis welwitschii) has a low to medium chance living in the area due to the trees available at the neighboring golf course, to the south of the mining site. However, the noise from the crushing operation will make this site less suitable as a day-time roost.

Red Data Birds

The red data bird literature survey was undertaken using the following reference material:

Robert’s Birds of Southern Africa, seventh edition (Hockey et al., 2005).

The Eskom Red Data Book of Birds of South Africa, Lesotho and Swaziland. (Barnes, 2000).

Sasol, Birds of Southern Africa (Sinclair et al., 1998).

The Atlas of Southern African Birds Vol. 1: Non-passerines (Harrison et al., 1997a).

The Atlas of Southern African Birds Vol. 2: Passerines (Harrison et al., 1997b).

Robert’s Birds of Southern Africa, sixth edition (Maclean, 1993). Of the red data bird species occurring in Gauteng, GDARD has identified sixteen of these as being priority species, given their status in the province and the national importance of the populations in the province. The suitability of the habitat on-site, and within 500m of the site boundary, has been assessed and the probability of these species occurring is evaluated in Table 2.14. According to the GDARD C-Plan, the area along the Klein Blesbokspruit provides suitable habitat for red data birds. As indicated above, the majority of this area has been damaged through previous mining activities and through the establishment of the canal for the Klein Blesbokspruit. In order to assess if the habitat available within the mining area will still be suitable for red data bird species a red data bird habitat assessment was undertaken in November 2006, by Lynn Randell of Umhlaba Environmental Consulting CC, as part of the Mining Right Application. The 2006 assessment is included in Section 12.4. Summary of Red Data Bird Habitat Assessment Of the sixteen Gauteng priority species, only the African Marsh Harrier has a HIGH potential of utilising the reedbeds that lie east of the Klein Blesbokspruit, for foraging purposes. All other priority species have a very LOW potential for occurring on-site. (See Section 12.4 for more details).

Red Data Invertebrates

The red data invertebrate survey was undertaken using information provided by GDARD. Based on the GDARD database, there are two rare and two red data invertebrate species that have been recorded in the quarter degree square 2628AB. Based on the habitat requirement of these species and the highly transformed nature of the site (Figure 2.6), there is very little chance that these species would occur on-site. Their probability of occurrence on-site has been evaluated in Table 2.15.

Red Data Amphibians

The amphibian literature survey was undertaken using the following reference material:

Atlas and Red Data Book of the Frogs of South Africa, Lesotho and Swaziland. (Minter et al., 2004).

South African Red Data Book – Reptiles and Amphibians. (Branch, 1988). According to Minter et al., 2004, the Giant Bullfrog (Pyxicephalus adspersus) is the only red data amphibian species that has been recorded for the quarter degree square 2628AB. Based on the habitat requirement of this species and the highly transformed nature of the site (Figure 2.6), there is very little chance that this species would occur on-site or within the vicinity.

Red Data Reptiles

The reptile literature survey was undertaken using the following reference material:

Field Guide - Snakes and other Reptiles of Southern Africa. (Branch, 1996).

South African Red Data Book – Reptiles and Amphibians. (Branch, 1988). No red data reptile species were identified as occurring in the quarter degree square 2628AB.


Table 2.13: Red data mammal species listed as occurring in Gauteng and the likelihood of occurrence on-site.

SCIENTIFIC NAME COMMON NAME STATUS8 SUITABILITY

9 PROBABILITY

10 COMMENT

Mystromys albicaudatus White-tailed Mouse / Rat

EN Low Low Suitable habitat is described as dense grass and sandy soils (Skinner and Chimimba, 2005). Requires good cover, and since site is heavily mined, cover is scarce. Habitat unsuitable.

Neamblysomus julianae Juliana’s Golden Mole VU No Low Habitat unsuitable.

Rhinolophus blasii Peak-saddle / Blasius’s Horseshoe Bat

VU No Low Although mine adits are available for roosting, this species occurs in savannah woodland which does not occur in the vicinity of the site. Habitat unsuitable.

Atelerix frontalis South African Hedgehog

NT Low Low Habitat transformed and disturbed.

Hyaena brunnea Brown Hyaena NT No Very low Habitat unsuitable.

Lutra maculicollis Spotted-necked Otter NT No Very low The only large bodies of open water on-site are artificial (canal) and the quality of the water in the Klein Blesbokspruit is uncertain. Habitat transformed and disturbed.

Melivora capensis Honey Badger NT Low Low Low habitat suitability.

Miniopterus schreibersii Schreiber’s Long-fingered Bat

NT Low Low

Although mine adits are available for roosting and breeding, day time activities may make the shelter unsuitable. In addition, the disturbed nature of the site will reduce the food availability. Habitat unsuitable.

Myotis tricolour Temminck’s Hairy Bat NT Low Low Although mine adits are available for roosting, day time activities may make the shelter unsuitable. In addition, the disturbed nature of the site will reduce the food availability. Habitat unsuitable.

Pipistrellus rusticus Rusty Bat / Pipistrelle NT Low Low Low habitat suitability due to the species of trees on-site not being ideal for roosting (require crevasse or loose bark, such as Acacia trees).

Myotis welwitschii Welwitsch’s Hairy Bat NT Low Low to Medium

This species has a preference for savannah woodland which is not the habitat of the area in which the mine is located. Although the exotic trees of the golf course adjacent to the site may offer roosting habitat, the noise generated by the crushing operation make this site nor suitable. Habitat unsuitable. It should be noted that this species has been recorded in Boksburg.

Rhinolophus clivosus Geoffroy’s Horseshoe Bat

NT Low Low Has a preference for savannah woodland which is not the habitat of the area in which the mine is located. Habitat unsuitable.

8 Conservation status according to the EWT (2005). EN – Endangered, VU – Vulnerable, NT – Near Threatened.

9 Suitability of habitat on-site (Skinner and Smithers, 1990; EWT, 2004; Skinner and Chimimba, 2005).

10 Probability of occurrence on-site.


SCIENTIFIC NAME COMMON NAME STATUS8 SUITABILITY

9 PROBABILITY

10 COMMENT

Rhinolophus darlingi Darling’s Horseshoe Bat

NT Low Low Although mine adits are available for roosting, day time activities may make the shelter unsuitable. In addition, the surrounding area is not savannah woodland, the preferred habitat. Habitat unsuitable.

- Red data species recorded for the quarter degree square but very unlikely to occur outside of a protected area.

Ourebia ourebia Oribi EN No No

Table 2.14: Likelihood of Gauteng priority bird species occurring on the mining site and within 500m of the site.

SCIENTIFIC NAME COMMON NAME STATUS11

RANGE12

SUITABILITY13

PROBABILITY14

COMMENT

Grosachius leuconotus Whitebacked Night Heron VU No Low Low Habitat unsuitable.

Gyps coprotheres Cape Vulture VU No Low Low Habitat unsuitable.

Polemaetus bellicosus Martial Eagle VU No Low Low Although clumps of trees available on the golf course, the high level of human disturbance makes the area less suitable.

Cirus ranivorus African Marsh Harrier VU Yes (<2%) Medium to High

High

Although the Blesbokspruit has been canalised, the reedbeds on the eastern bank still exists (although may disappear over time) and offers suitable foraging habitat.

Falco naumanni Lesser Kestrel VU Yes (<2%) Low Low

Not ideal foraging habitat, but potential roosting habitat available adjacent to the site. However, it must be noted that the noise from the crushing operation make this roosting habitat less suitable.

Anthropoides paradiseus Blue Crane VU Yes (<2%) Low Low Habitat unsuitable.

Podica senegalensis African Finfoot VU No No No Wetland habitat unsuitable.

Eupodotis cafra Whitebellied Korhaan VU No No No Habitat unsuitable.

Tyto capensis Grass Owl VU Yes (<2%) Low Low Habitat unsuitable.

Ciconia nigra Black Stork NT Yes Low Low Habitat unsuitable.

Phoenicopterus ruber Greater Flamingo NT Yes Low Low The Blesbokspruit wetland may have offered

11

Conservation status according to the Barnes (2000). VU – Vulnerable, NT – Near Threatened. 12

Within distribution range according to Barnes (2000), Harrison et al. (1997a), Harrison et al. (1997b) and Hockey et al. (2005). Reporting rate according to Barnes (2000) is given in brackets. 13

Suitability of habitat on-site and within 500m of the site (Barnes, 2000; Hockey et al., 2005). 14

Probability of occurrence on-site.



RANGE12

SUITABILITY13

PROBABILITY14

COMMENT

potentially suitable habitat for this species prior to canalisation. Current habitat no longer suitable.

Phoenicopterus minor Lesser Flamingo NT Yes Low Low

The Blesbokspruit wetland may have offered potentially suitable habitat for this species prior to canalisation. Current habitat no longer suitable.

Asagittarius serpentarius Secretary bird NT Yes Low Low Due to the highly disturbed nature of the site and surrounds, the habitat is unsuitable.

Alcedo semitorquata Halfcollared Kingfisher NT Yes No Low Wetland habitat unsuitable.

Mirafra cheniana Melodious Lark NT Yes Low Low Due to the highly disturbed nature of the site and surrounds, the habitat is unsuitable.

Buphagus erythrorhynchus Redbilled Oxpecker NT No No No Habitat unsuitable and no food source available.

Table 2.15: Invertebrate species of conservation concern identified as occurring the quarter degree square 2628AB and their potential for occurrence on-site.


SUITABILITY16

PROBABILITY17

COMMENT

Harpactira hamiltoni Golden Starburst baboon spider Rare Low Low Site heavily disturbed.

Segregara monticola Front eyed trapdoor spider Rare Low Low Requires stony ground, none of which exists on site: habitat unsuitable.

Metisella meninx Marsh sylph Red data Low Low No grassland along canalized Klein Blesbokspruit, therefore habitat unsuitable.

Orachrysops mijburghi Red data Low Low There are no rocky ridges on-site.

15

Conservation status according to GDACE database. 16

Suitability of habitat on-site and within 500m of the site (information provided by GDARD). 17

Probability of occurrence on-site.


2.1.8 Flora

The mining site is broadly classified as being within the Grassland Biome of South Africa (Low and Rebelo, 1995; van Wyk and Malan, 1998). More specifically, according to the Acock's classification, the mining area falls within the pure grassveld classification. Due to the mining activities (historically by Pamodzi and currently by Zimbiwa Resources) very little grassland remains on the property. The aerial photo from Google Earth (Figure 2.6) shows some grassland in the south-eastern section of the property. However, even these areas have either been covered by overburden or disturbed through other activities in recent years (such as the construction of an asphalt plant). As the GDARD C-Plan identified this area as having primary vegetation, a floral assessment of the site was commissioned to assess the remaining vegetation on-site. This assessment was undertaken by Patric Duigan in November 2006 and is included in Section 12.5.

Summary of Floral Assessment

As a result of extensive disturbance over time (dumping of waste material and the asphalt operation), the grasslands on-site have been transformed. The vegetation on-site is highly disturbed and was dominated by weedy exotic species, with the natural grasslands occurring in small patches between the dumped material and the R29 to the south. These grasslands comprise extensive stands of exotic floral species and possess low floral species richness. Due to the surrounding landuse, including quarrying and dumping of waste material, and the limited extent of the natural vegetation on the site, these grasslands are considered to possess low conservation value.

2.1.9 Surface Water

Catchment Area Characteristics

The mining area falls within the quaternary catchment C21D. As described previously, the topography around the mining site has a very gradual slope, with the exception of man-made structures, namely the overburden dumps and open cast pit (Figure 2.10). Based on the topography of the site, stormwater run-off will flow in the direction of the Klein Blesbokspruit. A summary of the characteristics of the quaternary catchment area (C21D) is provided in Table 2.16. The mining areas (which overlay one another) cover an area of 0.712807km

2, approximately 0.16% of the

quaternary catchment. Assuming that run-off over the whole area is consistent, then the mining areas have a Mean Annual Run-off (MAR) of approximately 25 661m

3.

Table 2.16: Catchment area characteristics of quaternary catchment C21D, according to Midgley et al., 1994a and Midgley et al., 1994b.

QUATERNARY CATCHMENT C21D

Surface area (km2) 446.00km

2

Mean Annual Evaporation (mm) 1 625mm

Mean Annual Precipitation (mm) 698mm

Mean Annual Run-off (mm) 36mm

Gross MAR (m3) 16 056 000m

3

Wetlands

According to the GDARD Conservation Plan Version 2 (C-Plan), the area bordering the Klein Blesbokspruit is considered to be a wetland and an irreplaceable habitat. Part of this wetland lies adjacent to the boundaries of the Mining Right area. However, it must be noted that the section of river has been canalised by Pamodzi, with permission having been granted (to Grootvlei Propriety Mines Ltd) by the DWA and GDARD. As a result of the canalisation of the river, the wetland vegetation along the river has diminished. During August 2008, the extent of reed beds along the canal had reduced since 2006 when the initial EMP was compiled. (See Figure 2.8 for a visual status of the canal and neighbouring wetland).

Water Quality

During 2010 samples were taken in the Blesbokspruit upstream and downstream of the mine operation and were analysed and the results were evaluated against the acceptable management target of the instream water quality guidelines for the Blesbokspruit catchment, refer to Table 2.17.


Table 2.17: Instream water quality results for the Blesbokspruit.

PARAMETER UNIT UPSTREAM DOWNSTREAM TARGET

Conductivity mS/m 45 45 45-70

Suspended solids mg/l <10 10 20-30

Chloride mg/l 50 49 80-150

Fluoride mg/l 0.3 0.2 0.19-0.7

Magnesium mg/l 11.8 10.2 8-30

Sodium mg/l 41.9 41 70-100

Iron mg/l 0.16 0.13 0.1-0.5

Aluminium mg/l 0.89 1.12 <0.3

Ammonia nitrogen mg/l 0.3 0.3 0.1-1.5

Nitrate + Nitrite mg/l N 0.3 8.9 0.5-3.0

pH mg/l 7.7 7.4 6.5-8.5

Sulphate mg/l SO4 72 70 150-300

Calcium Hardness mg/l 69 69 -

The results show that upstream and downstream of the Zimbiwa operation the quality of the water is well within or below the acceptable management target except for Aluminium and Nitrate and Nitrite (downstream). The increase in Nitrate and Nitrite is probably due to the presence of the informal settlements in the Kingsway area. The results indicate that the Zimbiwa operation does not impact on the water quality of the Blesbokspruit.

Floodlines

The Klein Blesbokspruit flows from the north, past the eastern side of the mining areas. When Pamodzi undertook the canalisation of the Klein Blesbokspruit they commissioned Jones and Wagener to calculate the floodline of the river before and after canalisation. The post construction floodlines are illustrated in Figure 2.15.


Figure 2.15: 1:50 year floodline of the Blesbokspruit.


2.1.10 Groundwater

Hydrogeology

On the basis of open type (primary or secondary), lithostratigraphy, physiography and climate, South Africa has been divided into 64 hydrological regions (Vegter, 2001). Based on this classification, the mining site is located over the Central Highveld groundwater region (Region 17). This regions consists mainly of secondary water-bearing formations, with the water-bearing rock being predominantly composite in nature (rather than crystalline metamorphic and igneous, intrusive, extrusive, or sedimentary) (Vegter, 2001). In secondary water-bearing formations, the movement of water through the rock is via secondary openings that have originated from processes that affect rocks after they were formed, such as tectonic deformation, weathering and unloading through degradation of the land surface. These secondary opening are planar and were formed along joints, cleavage, bedding and fault planes (Vegter, 2001). According to Vegter (2001), the occurrence and availability of groundwater at any point is determined by:

Storage and transmissive properties of the geological formation.

Rate of groundwater movement to discharge points.

Rate of groundwater discharge as springs, effluent seepage in steams.

Loss through evapo-transpiration.

Description of Aquifer(s) in the vicinity of the mine

The information presented in this section of the report has been extracted from the “Geohydrological Description of the Zimbiwa Resources – East Rand Mining Basin”, compile by Marius van Biljon of Rison Groundwater Consulting. A full copy of this report is attached in Section 12.8 with all references referred to in this section of the report having been obtained from the specialist study. Description of Aquifers The mine mining site is located in the East Rand Mining Basin (ERMB), where five types of natural aquifers have been described by Wates, Meiring and Barnard (2002). In addition to these natural aquifers an artificial aquifer, known as the Mine Void Aquifer, has been created by man due to the mining of auriferous gold bearing conglomerates of the Witwatersrand rocks. The creation of this void has resulted in large scale dewatering of the above natural aquifers within the ERMB. The most prominent natural aquifer in the region is the dolomite aquifer which is the only aquifer that the mine may have an impact on. Although this dolomite aquifer is regarded as the primary and continuous source of extraneous water into the mine void aquifer, other aquifers have been reported to contribute in parts of the basin. In the vicinity of the mine, there is sufficient evidence to suggest that underlying mine workings (shallow mining) has already drained the dolomitic aquifer in the vicinity of the Zimbiwa mines. Additional evidence to support this statement includes:

Some 150 exploration boreholes were drilled in the vicinity of the Zimbiwa mines and no water was intersected in any of the boreholes (according to the Environmental Manager of Pamodzi).

No water (other than the temporary collection of rain water) has been visible in the opencast pit, which is approximately 150m deep.

Aquifer Classification An aquifer classification system, such as the National Aquifer Classification System described by Parsons (1995), provides a framework and objective basis for identifying and setting appropriate levels of groundwater resource protection. Aquifer classification forms a very useful planning tool to guide the management of groundwater issues (Parsons, 1995). An advantage of this system, described by Parsons (1995) is that it can be linked to second classifications such as a vulnerability or usage classification. For the purpose of aquifer classification in this report, the classification system is used to determine the aquifer system management and the aquifer vulnerability. The results from this are then use to obtain a Groundwater Quality Management (GQM) index for the aquifer. Using the National Aquifer Classification System described by Parsons (1995), the classification of the dolomitic aquifer in the vicinity of the mine is as follows. Under natural conditions the aquifer underlying the Zimbiwa mines (dolomitic aquifer) would be considered a Major Aquifer System

18. However, as historic and

current mining activities in the vicinity have drained the aquifer (as described above), it is currently

18

“Highly permeable formations, usually with a known or probable presence of significant fracturing. They may be highly productive and able to support large abstractions for public supply and other purposes. Water quality is generally very good”


classified as a Non-aquifer system19

. Based on this classification, the GQM index for the dolomitic aquifer in the vicinity of the mine is ranked as requiring Limited Protection in terms of quality and quantity.

Groundwater Quality

The Council for Geo-Science reports that there are no boreholes on Portion 43 the Farm Modderfontein 76IR. They do, however, report the presence of boreholes on neighbouring portions of the same farm, viz. Portions 44 and 32. Considering the dolomitic aquifer in the vicinity of the mines has been drained by underground mining activities (as described above), it is unlikely that the abovementioned boreholes will provide representative data. Therefore, in order to determine groundwater quality for the region, the quality of the water in the mine void aquifer is considered to be representative of the region. The water quality in this aquifer (which drains the dolomitic aquifer) is described as being of poor quality (Table 2.18). These results show elevated iron and sulphate concentrations which are indicative of gold mine pollution.

Table 2.18: Groundwater quality in the underground workings (Jones and Wagener, 2005).

PARAMETER UNIT AVERAGE CONCENTRATION

pH pH Units 6.40

Temperature ºC 26.70

Dissolved Oxygen mg/l 2.50

Electrical Conductivity mS/m 321.80

Total Dissolved Solids mg/l 2879.00

Chloride mg/l 183.80

Fluoride mg/l <0.20

Sulphate mg/l 1383.00

Sodium mg/l 240.00

Calcium mg/l 422.00

Magnesium mg/l 197.00

Aluminium mg/l 0.30

Iron mg/l 135.00

Manganese mg/l 4.10

Zinc mg/l 0.01

Nickel mg/l 0.003

Chemical Oxygen Demand mg/l 35.40

2.1.11 Climatology

The nearest South African Weather Services (SAWS) monitoring station to the mining operation is the O.R. Tambo International Airport (previously known as the Johannesburg International Airport), located approximately 20km south-southeast of the site. The operation is situated at an altitude of 1 600 meters above mean sea level (mamsl) and the weather station is located at approximately 1 680mamsl. As there are no topographical barriers between the mining site and the weather station, it is assumed that the long-term weather data recorded at the airport will be representative of the climatic conditions experienced on the mining property. The SAWS recommends using a minimum of a 30 year period to generate what is known as the “normal” climatic conditions. This is to allow for the fluctuation in climatic conditions, particularly when considering rainfall. For the purposes of this report, the long-term average data obtained from the SAWS generally includes a 30 year period. However, the averaging period for rainfall may not be the same as the averaging period for wind field data.

Temperature

The monthly average of daily temperatures, illustrating the long-term monthly mean, minimum and maximum temperatures are presented in Figure 2.16. As is typical throughout South Africa, there is a distinct seasonal variation in temperature. The mean monthly temperatures are highest (>25°C) between December and February which are typically summer months. Temperatures gradually drop with the lowest temperatures being recorded during June and July (minimum temperatures of 4°C), which are typically winter months in South Africa.

19

“These are formations with negligible permeability that are generally regarded as not containing groundwater in exploitable quantities. Water quality may also be such that it renders the aquifer unusable. However, groundwater flow through such rocks does occur, although imperceptible, and needs to be considered when assessing risk associated with persistent pollutants”


Figure 2.16: Long-term monthly maximum, minimum and mean temperatures recorded for the SAWS station at the O.R. Tambo International Airport, between 1961 and 1990.

Precipitation

Mean Monthly Precipitation

As explained earlier, a 30 year average is considered to be an indication of “normal” meteorological conditions. However, to provide an indication of more recent trends in rainfall, the rainfall average for the period 1990 to 2003 has also been included for comparative purposes. Based on the long-term average rainfall data (1961 to 1990), the region is characterised by summer rainfall, with 84% of the annual rainfall occurring between October and March (Figure 2.17). During these months, rain falls over a period of more than ten days in a month (potential for rain every three days). During the drier months, on average rainfall is recorded for three days in a month (potential for rain every ten days). During the 1990 to 2003 period, the rainfall patter is similar to the long-term average (Figure 2.17). The summer months during this period experienced a slight increase in rainfall, while slightly less rainfall was recorded during winter.


Figure 2.17: The long-term (1961 - 1990) and more recent (1990 - 2003) average rainfall and average number of rain-days recorded for the SAWS station at the O.R. Tambo International Airport.

Maximum Rainfall Intensities – 24 hours

The long-term 24-hour maximum, monthly maximum and monthly minimum rainfalls recorded for the SAWS station at the O.R. Tambo International Airport, between 1961 and 1990, are given in Table 2.19. Note that the fluctuation of rainfall intensities follows the same pattern as the average monthly rainfall figures, with heavier rains being more common in summer months (October to March). For periods of less than 24 hours, the maximum rainfall intensities recorded for the SAWS station at the O.R. Tambo International Airport (between 1972 and 2001) is given in Table 2.20.

Table 2.19: Long-term 24-hour maximum, monthly maximum and monthly minimum rainfalls recorded for the SAWS station at the O.R. Tambo International Airport, between 1961 and 1990.

MONTH

24 HOUR MAXIMUM MONTHLY MAXIMUM MONTHLY MINIMUM

Rainfall (mm)

Year of occurrence

Rainfall (mm)

Year of occurrence

Rainfall (mm)

Year of occurrence

October 110 1985 198 1964 12 1980

November 65 1962 230 1962 39 1990

December 102 1978 181 1986 38 1980

January 188 1972 338 1972 56 1974

February 56 1990 191 1976 13 1984

March 92 1967 219 1987 16 1965

April 50 1990 130 1971 4 1985

May 70 1976 80 1976 0 1987

June 31 1963 59 1963 0 1985

July 17 1970 22 1965 0 1989

August 21 1979 47 1979 0 1980

September 62 1987 175 1987 0 1989


Table 2.20: Maximum rainfall intensities recorded for the SAWS station at the O.R. Tambo International Airport, between 1972 and 2001.

15 MINUTES 30 MINUTES 45 MINUTES 1 HOUR 24 HOURS

38mm 58mm 74mm 86mm 188mm

Incidence of Extreme Weather Conditions Incidents of extreme weather conditions are presented in Table 2.21.

Thunderstorms: The frequency of thunderstorms follows the same seasonal variation as rainfall, with thunderstorms being most frequent during the summer months (October to March).

Hail: Similarly, hail is most prevalent during the summer months (October to March), but has been recorded during the remainder of the year.

Fog: Incidents of fog occur throughout the year, but are most common between March and July.

Snow: Snow has only been recorded during winter and early spring.

Minimum Rainfall: The lowest monthly rainfall recorded during the “rainy season” (October to March) is between 14% and 44% less than the long-term average. Although not much rain is anticipated between May and September, it is not common to record no rainfall.

Maximum Temperatures: When comparing the highest maximum temperatures with the average maximum temperatures, the maximum monthly temperatures are 9.8°C to 6.8°C higher than the long-term monthly average.

Table 2.21: Incidents of extreme weather conditions recorded for the SAWS station at the O.R. Tambo International Airport, for the period 1961 to 1990.

MONTH

AVERAGE NO. DAYS WITH: MINIMUM

RAINFALL

(MM)

HIGHEST

MAX TEMP

(C) Thunder Hail Fog Snow

October 8.8 0.7 2.5 0.0 12 32.2

November 12.1 0.8 2.4 0.0 39 32.9

December 12.6 0.3 1.6 0.0 38 32.4

January 12.4 0.4 2.1 0.0 56 35.4

February 8.1 0.1 2.1 0.0 13 33.5

March 8.0 0.1 4.1 0.0 16 31.9

April 4.4 0.1 4.6 0.0 4 29.3

May 1.5 0.0 4.6 0.0 0 26.4

June 0.4 0.1 3.3 0.0 0 23.1

July 0.7 0.1 3.3 0.1 0 24.4

August 1.2 0.0 2.2 0.1 0 26.2

September 2.6 0.1 2.4 0.1 0 31.1

Annual Total 73 3 35 0 443 358.8

Evaporation

Rate of evaporation is closely tied to heat transfer. There are three main heat transfer processes, viz.: conduction, convection and radiation. Ambient temperature influences all three processes to varying degrees, and wind speed influences convection. As a result of this correlation, reference should be made to the information on temperatures and prevailing winds in the region of the mine. Mean Monthly Evaporation Monthly evaporation figures were obtained from the SAWS evaporation station at the O.R. Tambo International Airport, for the period 1957 to 1987. The annual average evaporation for this weather station is 2 160mm. Based on long-term averages, the highest monthly evaporation is recorded during October (Figure 2.18), despite the fact that the highest average temperatures are recorded between December and February.


Figure 2.18: Mean monthly evaporation recorded for the Irene station, for the period 1957 to 1987.

During all months of the year, the evaporation exceeds rainfall (Table 2.22). The greatest deficit (191mm) is evident during December when maximum evaporation is anticipated. For the remainder of the year, the deficit varies between 81mm and 174mm.

Table 2.22: Comparison of rainfall and evaporation data recorded for the SAWS station at the O.R. Tambo International Airport, for the period 1957 to 1987.

OCT NOV DEC JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP

Rainfall (1961-1990)

72 117 105 125 90 91 54 13 9 4 6 27

Evaporation(1957-1987)

246 223 231 222 182 172 135 129 109 123 170 218

Deficit -174 -106 -126 -97 -92 -81 -81 -116 -100 -119 -164 -191

Wind Field Data

Annual average and monthly average wind roses have been generated using hourly wind speeds recorded at the SAWS station at the O.R. Tambo International Airport, between 1989 and 2003 (Figure 2.19 and Figure 2.20, respectively). The wind roses represented below indicate the wind frequencies for the 16 cardinal wind directions. The frequency of occurrence of winds within each direction is indicated by the length of the shaft compared with the dotted circles, representing a 5% frequency of occurrence. At the bottom of each wind rose / page are wind speed classes. These illustrate the frequencies of occurrence of winds in each category, for each wind direction. The frequencies of calm periods, wind speeds are below 1m/s, are indicated as a percentage value in the centre of each wind rose.


ANNUAL AVERAGE 1989 – 2003

WIND SPEED CLASSIFICATION (M/S)

0.5 – 2.5 2.5 – 3.5 3.5 – 5.6 5.6 – 8.7 8.7 – 10.7 > 10.7

Figure 2.19: Annual average wind rose recorded for the SAWS station at the O.R. Tambo International Airport, for the period 1989 to 2003.

The predominant wind direction for this region, occurring for approximately 35% of the year, arises from a north-westerly to northerly direction. Secondary less frequent components arise from the south-westerly and easterly sectors, recording winds for more than 5% of the year (from each sector). The strong gusts (>8.7m/s) recorded for this station are most frequently associated with winds from these prominent sectors. On average, calm periods are recorded as occurring 2.2% of the year. The monthly average wind roses recorded at the O.R. Tambo International weather station are presented in Figure 2.20. During a year, the frequency of northerly winds remains prominent, with an increase in frequency of occurrence (>20% in a single month) and strength from August to December. It is during these periods that any dust generated from the mining operation would impact on areas south of the mine. However, with the start of the summer rains in October, the generation and transportation of dust between October and December will be reduced. It is important to note that the frequency of winds from other sectors decreases during these months. The decrease in the frequency of occurrence of northerly winds in January is coupled with an increase in occurrence of easterly winds, until March. During this period, any dust generated by the mining operation will be transported towards Rynsoord. Thereafter, the prominent wind direction is from the south-western and north-western quadrants, between May and July. Gusts of wind are recorded between June and December, predominantly arising from the south-south-western and northern sectors.


JANUARY 1989 – 2003

FEBRUARY 1989 – 2003

MARCH 1989 – 2003

APRIL 1989 – 2003

MAY 1989 – 2003

JUNE 1989 – 2003


0.5 – 2.5 M/S 2.5 – 3.5 M/S 3.5 – 5.6 M/S 5.6 – 8.7 M/S 8.7 – 10.7 M/S > 10.7 M/S


JULY 1989 – 2003

AUGUST 1989 – 2003

SEPTEMBER 1989 – 2003

OCTOBER 1989 – 2003

NOVEMBER 1989 – 2003

DECEMBER 1989 – 2003


0.5 – 2.5 M/S 2.5 – 3.5 M/S 3.5 – 5.6 M/S 5.6 – 8.7 M/S 8.7 – 10.7 M/S > 10.7 M/S

Figure 2.20: Monthly average wind rose recorded for the SAWS station at the O.R. Tambo International Airport, for the period 1989 to 2003.


2.1.12 Air Quality

The air quality of any region is controlled by a combination of a number of factors; viz. climate, topography, and both natural and anthropogenic activities occurring in the area of interest and in surrounding regions (GDARD, 2004). (The climate and topography of the site have already been discussed in earlier). Gauteng has “the highest pollution density, highest concentration of industries, largest vehicle population, a very stable and well defined inversion layer during winter, which in combination result in very high levels of pollution during the winter months” (GDARD, 2004). During the summer months, although the sources of air pollution are relatively unchanged (only domestic coal burning is reduced), the increased rainfall and changes in wind patterns result in lower levels of air pollution (GDARD, 2004). The EMM comprises the largest industrial area in the country, comprising approximately 40% of all industrial activity of Gauteng. During 2000, industrial and commercial activity within EMM accounted for 5% and 2% of the land use respectively (Scorgie and Watson, 2004). Adding to this pollution potential is the fact that the Gauteng Spatial Development Framework (SDF) has identified EMM as a core focus area for future economic development within the province. Although an emission inventory has not been compiled for EMM, the source types within the municipality include (Liebenberg-Enslin, 2004):

Industrial and commercial: Including Scheduled Processes and fuel burning appliance operation by businesses, hospitals and schools.

Waste treatment and disposal: Waste incineration, landfills and waste water treatment works.

Residential: Household combustion of coal, paraffin, LPG and wood.

Transport: Petrol and diesel driven vehicle tailpipe emissions, vehicle entrained road dust; brake and tyre wear fugitives, rail-related and aviation emissions.

Mining: Specifically wind-blown emissions from mine tailings impoundments.

Informal / miscellaneous: Tyre burning, wild fires and fugitive dust emissions from open areas and agricultural activities.

Existing Air Quality within the Region

The information presented in this section of the report has been extracted from the “Air Quality Impact Assessment for the Zimbiwa Resources Mining Right Application in Brakpan”, compile by Hanlie Liebenberg-Enslin of Airshed Planning Professionals (Pty) Ltd. A full copy of this report is attached in Section 12.9, with all references referred to in this section of the report having been obtained from the specialist study. The air quality impact assessment identified the source types present in the area of interest and the pollutants associated with such source types, particularly those which may be of importance in terms of cumulative impact potentials. The source types identified include:

Stack, vent and fugitive emissions from industrial operations.

Fugitive emissions from industrial, mining, commercial and miscellaneous operations (agricultural activities, wind erosion of open areas, vehicle-entrainment of dust along paved and unpaved roads).

Vehicle tailpipe emissions.

Household fuel combustion.

Biomass burning (veld fires, forest fires and sugar cane burning).

Waste treatment facilities (i.e. water treatment plants, landfills, incinerators etc.). The pollutants of concern for the mining operations include fugitive dust and suspended particulates, particularly total suspended particulates (TSP) and respirable particles with an aerodynamic diameter of less than 10μm (PM10). Therefore, the description of the baseline conditions has been focussed on these pollutants. Although information is available for other pollutants, these pollutants will not be produced by the mining operation, therefore, they have not been considered in this section of the report.

Fugitive Dust

Fugitive dust (dust fallout) in the vicinity of the mining operations have been recorded for three different monitoring networks over various periods, with the most recent data being used for this report: ERGO between January 1998 and December 2003 for one site in Brakpan North and between December 2000 and December 2003 at two sites in Kingsway and Modderfontein. Consolidated Modderfontein Mine (CMM) / Pamodzi between October 2003 and March 2004. Crushing Operation between October 2004 and March 2012.


ERGO During 2002 and 2003, the average dust fallout levels in Brakpan North were within the MODERATE (250 - 500mg/m²/day) to HEAVY (500 – 1 200mg/m²/day) categories with higher levels noted for 2003. In Kingsway, the dust fallout for the 2002 to 2003 period was predominantly within the MODERATE range with incidence of HEAVY dust fallout being recorded for four isolated periods. Dust fallout rates in Modderfontein were on average within the SLIGHT (<250 mg/m²/day) to MODERATE categories with the only incidents of HEAVY fallout being noted for two months during the pre-2002 period. At both the Kingsway and Brakpan North sites, the highest dust fallout occurred during the months of July to November (Liebenberg-Enslin, 2004).

CMM / Pamodzi The CMM monitoring network was established to define the dust problem due to operations at CMM, which included West Pit 1 (the opencast pit). The wind directional station located in Rynsoord noted higher dust deposition levels from a southerly direction (not from the east where the mining operation was located). The wind directional unit located in Brakpan North showed no definite trends in the dust fallout from any sector (CMM was located north of the monitoring station). Note that no comparison can be made with the South African guidelines as the sampling interval used in this monitoring campaign does not comply with the interval prescribed for the Department of Environmental Affairs (DEA) guidelines.

Crushing Operation The dustfall rates recorded for the crushing operation are predominantly in the HEAVY (500 – 1 200mg/m

2/day) to VERY HEAVY (>1 200mg/m

2/day) range, particularly during the end of winter

and spring. As the monitoring stations are located on the property boundary, elevated levels are anticipated.

Total Suspended Particulates

TSP data were recorded (by the CSIR20

) on behalf of Impala BMR at various sites during the 1990’s. During this time, the particulate concentrations did not exceed the outdated South African standards for TSP (highest daily TSP – 300μg/m

3; annual mean TSP - 100μg/m

3).

PM10 Smoke monitoring was undertaken in the Springs area between 1975 and 2002. Using this data and applying a multiplication factor, the PM10 concentrations during this period ranged from 40μg/m

3 to

656μg/m3. During the 1994 to 2002 period, most (if not all) sites recorded and exceeded the PM10 limit

(75μg/m3) for maximum levels recorded for the period.

As indicated above, TSP data were recorded (by the CSIR) on behalf of Impala BMR at various sites during the 1990’s. Based on the TSP concentrations recorded, it has been assumed that it is very unlikely that the PM10 limits would have been exceeded (Scorgie et al., 2005).

2.1.13 Noise

The information presented in this section of the report has been extracted from the “Noise Impact Study” for the Zimbiwa Resources Mining Right Application, compile by Dr Ben van Zyl of Acusolv (Pty) Ltd. A full copy of this report is attached in Section 12.10, with all references referred to in this section of the report having been obtained from the specialist study.

Noise Level Standards

For reference purposes, the SANS21

10103 for ambient noise levels in various districts is included in Table 2.23. The district around the mining operation is considered to be an Urban Residential District, with the applicable standards shown in row c of Table 2.23.

20

Centre for Science and Industrial Research 21

South African National Standards


Table 2.23: Typical outdoor ambient noise levels in various districts. Average level over various periods during a 24-hour day. Measured in dB (SANS 10103).

TYPE OF DISTRICT DAY-NIGHT 22

(24 HOUR PERIOD) DAY-TIME

(06:00 – 22:00) NIGHT-TIME

(22:00 – 06:00)

(a) Rural 45 45 35

(b) Suburban – With little road traffic 50 50 40

(c) Urban 55 55 45

(d) Urban – With some workshops, business premises & main roads

60 60 50

(e) Central business districts 65 65 55

Ambient Noise Levels in Neighbouring Residential Areas

When Dr. Van Zyl conducted an ambient noise level survey of the Mining Right Application area, he identified four residential areas that might be affected by the mining activities, viz.:

Rynsoord.

Kingsway.

Dersley.

Sherwood Gardens. The environmental noise survey was conducted during the period 27

th to 29

th August 2006, with the results

presented in Table 2.24. Ambient noise in these areas is determined predominantly by traffic on the R51 and R29 main roads, by traffic on local streets and service roads, and to a lesser extent by existing mining operations. In terms of SANS 10103, the areas in which monitoring was undertaken would be classified as Urban Residential, with typical daytime (06:00 to 22:00) and night-time (22:00 to 06:00) ratings of 55 and 45 dBA, respectively.

Table 2.24: Measured ambient noise levels (27th

to 29th

August 2006).

MEASUREMENTS TAKEN IN: RECORDED AMBIENT NOISE LEVELS (DBA)

Day-time Night-time

Rynsoord 53 44

Kingsway 56 47

Dersley 54 45

Sherwood Gardens 53 46

22 The day-night level represents a 24-hour average of the ambient noise level, with a weighting of +10dBA applied to night-time levels.


Figure 2.21: Aerial photo23

showing neighbouring land uses and the area disturbed through mining related activities at Zimbiwa Quarry.

23

Download the application for free from http://earth.google.com

Zimbiwa Quarry Pit

Admin, ProcessingPlants, Workshops

Kingsway Township

Blesbokspruit

Golf Course

Rynsnoord Residential

Industrial

Industrial

Mining

Vacant

Vacant

Blesbokspruit

Vacant

http://earth.google.com/


2.2 SENSITIVITY MAP

Figure 2.22: Environmental Sensitivity Map for Zimbiwa Quarry and surrounding areas.


3 CONSULTATION PROCESS Regulation 32(1)

The purpose of this section is to provide details of the public consultation process implemented for the completion of this EMPr amendment. Results of previous public consultations should be accessed from the previous version of the EMPr (Randell and Robinson, 2006).

3.1 IDENTIFICATION OF I&AP Interested and Affected Parties (I&APs) have been identified considering; this is an existing operation, the scale of the activity on-site, the nature of the activities being undertaken in the surrounding area, and there proximity of the neighbours to mining activities. Taking guidance from Chapter 6, Regulation 41(2)(b) of GNR 982, the following I&AP were identified and contacted:

The owner / occupier of the land on which the mine is located [Regulation 41(2)(b)(i)].

The owner / occupier of the land adjacent to the Mining Area [Regulation 41(2)(b)(ii)].

The municipal councillor of the Ward [Regulation 41(2)(b)(iii)].

A representative of the municipality [Regulation 41(2)(b)(iv)].

A representative of Organs of State having jurisdiction over any aspect of the proposed activity [Regulation 41(2)(b)(v)].

Any other parties identified during this process [Regulation 41(2)(b)(vi)]. The register of I&AP will be updated as and when required throughout the ongoing consultation process [as per Regulation 42] with the current register being included in Section 12.2.1.

3.2 NOTIFICATION AND COMMUNICATION WITH I&AP

I&AP’s were notified in the following manner, with proof of the consultations being provided in Section 12.2 and a register of all I&AP being maintained [as per Regulation 42]: Electronic communication was used as the primary form of communication. Steps taken to notify I&APs included:

1. Known I&APs were identified / confirmed and e-mail addresses and cell phone numbers confirmed (or fax / postal addresses if specifically requested).

2. A Background Information Document (BID) was sent via e-mail to known I&AP’s (or fax / registered mail if specifically requested) [written notification as per Regulation 41(2)(b)] and was available via the Umhlaba web site (depending on the size of the document). I&AP were requested to confirm if they wished to be involved in the process.

3. Land owner consent (the mining right holder is the landowner) [as per Regulation 39(1)]. 4. A site notice was erected at the mine entrance [as per Regulation 41(2)(a)] which included the details

described in Regulation 41(3) and complied with the details described in Regulation 41(4). 5. A newspaper advertisement was placed in a local newspaper [as per Regulation 41(2)(c)]. No

advertisements were placed in Provincial or National newspapers as the anticipated impacts do not extend beyond the boundaries of the metropolitan or district municipality [as per Regulation 41(2)(d)].

6. One on one meetings were held with the directly adjacent land occupiers and the ward councillor. Evidence of these meeting is provided in Section 12.2.

7. A public meeting was held to present the project to the local communities and other I&AP’s to gain their feedback. One on one meetings were also conducted where requested.

8. An I&AP register was maintained as per Regulation 42. 9. A draft of the amended EMPR [as per Regulation 32(1)(a)] was made available for I&AP to review for a

period of 30 days [as per Regulation 40(1)], via the Umhlaba web site (www.umhlaba.co.za) with a hard copy placed within the Benoni City Centre Library. E-mail and sms notification of the availability of the document was sent to registered I&AP.

10. Once the final amended EMPR is submitted to the DMR, all registered I&AP will be notified and provided access to the submitted report [as per Regulation 40(3)] via the Umhlaba web site. E-mail and sms notification of the availability of the document will be sent to registered I&AP.

I&AP Involvement requested: 1. Acknowledging receipt of the BID by registering as an I&AP – either by completing the feedback form

and faxing to (011 791 3384) or e-mailing to Umhlaba ([email protected]), or filling in details online (www.umhlaba.co.za).

2. Completing the provided feedback form giving feedback based on the information in the BID.

http://www.umhlaba.co.za/


3. Attending the public meeting to engage in dialogue concerning the particulars of the project. 4. Reviewing the draft amended EMPR when it was circulated for public comment and providing feedback

to Umhlaba within 30 days of the documents being made available. 5. Reviewing the final amended EMPR when it was submitted to the DMR and providing further feedback to

the DMR if their concerns previously raised were not addressed adequately or if they have additional comments.

3.3 COMMENTS AND RESPONSE A summary of the comments received during the consultation process are incorporated into Table 3.1. The EAP’s responses as mandated by the mining right holder are also given. The written feedback as received from I&AP’s has been presented in Section 12.2.6.


Table 3.1: Comments and Response



HOLDER)

SECTION OF

REPORT IN WHICH

ISSUE IS


Codes in

footer24

Date on which I&AP



Landowner / Lawful Occupiers of Land

Atoll Metal Recovery (Pty) Ltd E, M, PM

- Atoll is also the mining right holder and applicant therefore no issues raised.

- -

Lawful Occupiers of Adjacent Properties

Elematic SA (Pty) Ltd E, M - No issues raised - -

Soil King (Pty) Ltd E, M - No issues raised - -

Pronto Readymix (Pty) Ltd E, HL - No issues raised - -

Icon Bricks (Pty) Ltd E, HL 20/01/2018

Mr Spencer Haydock indicated that after reviewing the documentation, the proposed amendments do not impose immediate or future issues for the Icon Bricks operation. He also requested to be removed from the mailing list for any further notifications.

Mr Haydock’s comments are acknowledged and Icon Bricks have been removed from the I&AP list.

Section 12.2.1

Municipality

Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality Environmental Resource Management

E 21/02/2018

All mitigation measures contained in the amended EMPR must be implemented on site

Monitoring, as described in the amended EMPR must be implemented and adhered to on site

Atoll is committed to implementing all internal process to ensure that mitigation and monitoring commitments contained in the amended EMPR are realised. This will also be assessed externally during the biannual environmental audit.

Section 7

Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality

Waste Management Services E 08/03/2018

Comments were received regarding the waste management section of the amended EMPR.

Although none of the commitments pertaining to waste management were amended from the approved

Section 7.3.8

24

HL=Hand delivered letter, M=One on one Meeting, PM=Public Meeting, T=Telephone, F=Fax




HOLDER)

SECTION OF

REPORT IN WHICH

ISSUE IS


Codes in

footer24

Date on which I&AP



EMPR, the comments (provided in full in Section 12.2.6) are valid and Zimibiwa Quarry will take heed of them.

Municipal Councillor

Cllr Mdletshe for Ward 73 E, M 22/01/2018 The Cllr raised a number of issues related to social and labour aspects.

It was explained that social and labour issues do not form part of the scope of the current amendment which only deals with the proposed amendments to the decommissioning and closure objectives. An introductory meeting was arranged between the Cllr and the mine to initiate cohesion on social and labour issues.

-

Organs of State & Other Competent Authorities Affected

Department of Mineral Resources E, HL 26/01/2018

The Regional Manager responded to Atoll’s notification of intent to amend the EMPR (submitted 17

th January 2018)

by indicating that the application to amend the EMPR will only be considered once it has been submitted in conjunction with a S102 application via SAMRAD.

The notification letter of intent to amend the EMPR was submitted to the Regional Manager as per regulation 37(1) of the EIA regulations 2014 (as amended). The amended EMPR will be submitted in conjunction with a S102 application via SAMRAD once the amended EMPR has been finalised.

-

Department of Water & Sanitation E No issues raised

Gauteng Department of Agriculture and Rural Development

E No issues raised

Department of Rural Development & Land E 19/02/2018 The office of the regional land claims The response from the Land -




HOLDER)

SECTION OF

REPORT IN WHICH

ISSUE IS


Codes in

footer24

Date on which I&AP



Reform commissioner confirmed that there is an existing land claim against the property on which the mining right is held. However the processing of these claims is subject to further parliamentary processes required to validate the claims

Claims Commissioner is noted and presented in Section 12.2.6 of this report.

Communities

Rynsoord E

PM

31/01/2018

07/02/2018

Mr Salim Dawood is a resident of Rynsoord and provided comments as the environmental liaison for Ward 73. Issues raised included security concerns, dust and noise.

Atoll acknowledges the concern around illegal mining in the area and employs private security to ensure that illegal miners are kept out of the Zimbiwa Quarry. The Quarry is committed to mitigating any dust and noise emissions from the operation and will continue to implement its environmental monitoring programme to ensure that dust and noise emissions are kept to within acceptable standards.

Section 7.8

Other I&AP

Blesbokspruit Catchment Forum E No issues raised

Group Five Construction (Pty) Ltd E No issues raised


4 OVERVIEW OF MINING ACTIVITIES [Appendix 4(1)(b)]

In order to obtain the material for processing, open cast mining methods of drilling and blasting, with subsequent loading and hauling, are applied in the existing open cast pit. Payable material is then processed in the crushing and screening plant. The main expected outputs from the operations include:

Karoo (overburden).

Dolomite.

Dolerite. Overburden and dolerite overlie the dolomite. Both the dolerite and dolomite are considered the main payable product, while Karoo is considered a waste product. The mine also mines waste dolomite from dumps created during the historic mining of gold from the adjacent opencast mine. Due to the mixture of rock types on the dumps, this material is not suitable for aggregate production and is suitable for G5 to G7 product and is not always in a high demand. The description of the mining activities has been presented for the construction (Section 4.1) and operational (Section 4.2) phases, followed by a brief outline of the supporting services and activities (Section 4.3) and an indication of the anticipated emergency incidents and accidents (Section 4.4). The decommissioning and closure phases are presented in Section 4.5.

4.1 CONSTRUCTION PHASE As this report serves as an update to the Environmental Management Programme Report (EMPR) and EMP of existing operations, there is no construction phase. Any expansions to the current operations will be described in Section 4.2, the operational phase.

4.2 OPERATIONAL PHASE The description of activities being undertaken as part of the operational phase is presented in sequence in this section of the report. Hereinafter the operations will be referred to as the mine.

4.2.1 Mining Planning

Mine planning is undertaken in order to achieve optimal utilisation of mineral resources within the mining right area with the intention of considering future landforms. The following activities will be carried out by the mine:

Quarry planning meetings are undertaken regularly to discuss the following:

Blasting activities.

Dumping of overburden.

Mining of the waste dumps.

Concurrent rehabilitation activities.

Closure requirements (if any).

Stormwater management.

Short and long term mine plans are generated for the quarry.

4.2.2 Stripping of Vegetation and Topsoil

Mining of opencast operations usually starts with the stripping of vegetation and topsoil. As the mining area has been extensively disturbed through previous mining and stockpiling activities, there are no areas within the mining area that still contain any topsoil worth preserving or any areas where there is indigenous vegetation that has not been disturbed. As the Stripping of Topsoil and Vegetation will not be undertaken at this site, it is not being considered as an operational activity

4.2.3 Stripping, Hauling and Stockpiling of Overburden

To gain access to the raw material (dolerite and dolomite) for processing, the Karoo overburden must be removed. Overburden will be stripped on a continuous basis using an excavator and dump trucks. In most places the Karoo overburden is soft enough to avoid the need for blasting. If harder, compacted Karoo material is encountered, it will be drilled and blasted, if necessary. The stripped overburden will be transported to the stockpile area(s) by haul vehicles and will either be:

Stockpiled on existing overburden dumps.


Used to construct a berm around the mines boundary. As portions of the berms are completed, they will be re-vegetated.

4.2.4 Drilling, Blasting and Secondary Breaking

Drilling and blasting will only be undertaken in the dolomite and dolerite units, approximately 12m below the current surface. Blasting will be undertaken by a licensed subcontractor, following approved mining methods and with the aim of meeting various design criteria. The intention is to blast the dolomite into blocks that are suitable for processing in the primary jaw crusher without having to undertake any secondary breaking. However, if secondary breaking is necessary, the mine will consider either secondary blasting or the use of a hydraulic hammer.

4.2.5 Loading, Hauling and Stockpiling of Mined Material

Excavators will shovel mine-blast product onto trucks for hauling to stockpiles in the plant area. Ramps within the quarry will be constructed as necessary. Once out of the quarry, the material will be driven to the crusher where the material will be tipped directly from the haul vehicles into the feedbin for processing through a plant.

4.2.6 Crushing and Screening

There are two plants, yielding the following products through a process of crushing, screening, re-crushing and washing of some products:

G1

G5

26mm

19mm

13mm

9.5mm

6.7mm

Agricultural lime

Crusher sand

Super sand (-6mm)

Super fines (-0.75µm)

G7

Ballast

Dump Rock

Wash Sand

The crushing and screening process through both plants is a dry process with part of the old plant undergoing a wet process. Dust suppression in the dry plants is being achieved by means of fine mist sprays. The sand from the Old Plant can be washed through a section of the plant.

Primary Crusher

Run-of-mine (ROM) material transported from the quarry is loaded to a primary jaw-crusher by means of dump trucks loaded via excavators or haul vehicles. The crushed material is then fed to a primary stockpile by means of a conveyor.

Crushing and Screening

At both plants, material from the primary stockpile (-250mm) is fed to a screen (screen 1) from a conveyor originating under the primary stockpile, to produce various size fractions. These fractions are sent to the various crushers for shaping of the products and stockpiled or fed back to another screen (screen 2) via a transfer point until required as product. Material is fed through Screen 2 to produce smaller size fractions and stockpiled as product.

Processing Plants

At the new plant, material from screen 2 that is not stockpiled as products is fed to screen 3. Undersize fractions are fed to screen 3 to produce and stockpile smaller size fractions and supersand. Oversize material is fed back to the crusher. Supersand is unwashed material that is fed through a buell to remove the fine fraction before being stockpiled as product. The fine fraction separated from the sand is also stockpiled as product. At the old plant, material from screen 2 that is not stockpiled as products is fed to screen 3 to produce smaller size fractions, crusher sand, washed sand and super sand. Crusher sand is unwashed and stockpiled as product. Washed sand is produced from the washing facility before being stockpiled. The fine sediment washed from the sand is sent to settling dams where the suspended settlements are allowed to settle out of suspension. Supersand is manufactured by further crushing material through the Barmac VIS crusher.


Dispatch of Products from Site

All products are removed from site by means of road transport, operated by independent contractors

4.2.7 Mining of Dolomitic “Waste” Dumps

The mine also mines waste dolomite from waste dumps created during the historic mining of gold from the adjacent opencast mine, previously operated by Petrex. The dolomite is mined using excavators, Front End Loaders (FELs), mobile screens, haul trucks and hydraulic hammers (depending on the required rate of production). Due to the mixture of rock types on the dumps, this material is not suitable for aggregate production and is suitable for G5 to G7 product and is not always in a high demand. The dolomitic boulders are separated with the use of front end loaders and/or excavators. The boulders undergo secondary breaking with a hydraulic pecker (Section 4.2.4) to suitable sizes of approximately 500mm. The mined material is fed with the excavator onto the mobile screens (Section 4.2.5). The material is then screened into the various required fraction sizes. Sizes small than 50mm is used as G5-G7 product and sizes greater than 50 mm is used as feedstock into the primary crushers. The screened products are moved to the relevant stockpiles using the FELs. The coarse material will be hauled (Section 4.2.5) to the jaw crushers (Section 4.2.6) for processing through the plant.

4.3 SUPPORTING SERVICES AND ACTIVITIES

4.3.1 Water Supply and Use

Potable Water

Potable water for staff consumption is supplied to the site by the municipality and is available at the administration offices and from the ablution facilities.

Process Water

Process water required for the mining and processing operations. Water is extracted from the Blesbokspruit and recycled for reuse.

Mining

Recycled water from the mine will be for dust suppression. Water will be drawn from stormwater run-off dams, settlement dams, from run-off collected in the pit, and abstraction directly from the Klein Blesbokspruit as per the water use authorisation.

Processing During processing, water is used for washing of sand in the washing plant. This water is taken from the Klein Blesbokspruit as per the water use authorisation.

4.3.2 Stormwater Management

A Stormwater Management Plan was compiled by Chris Brooker of Chris Brooker and Associates, in 2006 (Section 12.30). This plan is in the process of being amended to suit current and long-term mine plans. The amended plan will be implemented once completed.

4.3.3 Power / Electricity

Power is required for the administration activities and the running of the plant. The electricity required will be sourced from the grid (Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality).

4.3.4 Administration

Administration functions are performed on-site in administration building and include:

Documenting the sales to customers,

Documenting supplies, and

Maintaining copies of required legal documentation which must be present on a mining site.

4.3.5 Maintenance / Workshop

All spares are stored on-site and are kept within the workshop facility. All lubricants and greases required for maintenance are stored in a bunded facility.


Vehicle Maintenance

Maintenance of the mining fleet is undertaken on-site, in the workshop located adjacent to the crushing plant. The mining fleet includes excavators, haul vehicles, water carts, dozers, loaders, JCB and bakkies. During the maintenance of the fleet, the following waste products will be generated (management and disposal of these waste products is described in Section 4.3.8).

Used oil.

Used oil-filters.

Worn-out vehicle parts.

Plant Maintenance

Plant maintenance includes the lubrication and greasing of mechanical parts, replacing of conveyor belting and replacing of worn parts. During the maintenance of the plant, the following waste products will be generated (management and disposal of these waste products is described in Section 4.3.8).

- Worn-out parts. - Oil drained from gear boxes.

Haul Roads Maintenance

The haul roads are maintained regularly with a grader to prevent erosion and reduce deterioration. The roads are also watered on a daily basis by means of a water cart.

4.3.6 Diesel

Diesel is stored on-site in two above-ground diesel tanks with a combined capacity of 46 000ℓ. The tanks are contained within a bunded area, which can accommodate 110% of the capacity of the tank. Mine haul vehicles and plant vehicles obtain diesel directly from this tank, while the excavators (in the pit) will be re-fuelled from a fuel-bowser that draws diesel from the main tank.

4.3.7 Sanitation Facilities

Sanitation facilities are available at the following locations, with waste being managed through septic tanks:

Office.

Laundry

Weighbridge.

Security room.

Control rooms.

Workshop.

Ablutions - located adjacent to the crushing operation and fitted with showers, toilets, a change-room, lockers, and a mess hall.

A portable toilet – may be installed in the pit for the use by the excavator and haul vehicle drivers. In addition, a swing driver will also be on-site to relieve the excavator driver when necessary.

4.3.8 Waste

Industrial waste is generated in the plant and workshops and includes:

Batteries (used)

Brake fluid

Cleaned hydrocarbon spills

Degreaser

Engine coolant

Fluorescent tubes

Vehicle parts

Oil contaminated waste

Oil filters

Oil (used)

Oil (PCB contaminated)

Paint tins

Rubber (conveyor belting)

Scrap metal

Tyres (used)

All waste is stored in demarcated areas prior to disposal. The type of storage facility and the schedule for disposal is dependent on the waste type being collected.


General25

and Non-hazardous Waste

Waste from the administration offices includes waste such as paper, packaging from stationery, lunch wrappers, food waste etc. General and domestic waste is collected by the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality. Recyclable waste such as glass, paper, plastic and tins are collected in bins separated for such and is removed by a waste disposal contractor. All waste is stored in demarcated areas prior to disposal. The type of storage facility and the schedule for disposal is dependent on the waste type being collected.

Settlement Dams

The washing plant produces sediment rich water and which is pumped to various settlement dams used for settling of suspended particles (otherwise known as fines). Once the sediments have settled out of suspension, the water is recycled back to the washing plant. The settlement dam is constructed in such a way that the water concentrates in the lower end of the settlement dam, facilitating the pumping of the water for re-use as well as the drying out of the sediments. Although the settling dams are unlined, no chemicals are used in the washing process and therefore, there is no toxic contamination in the settlement dams that could filter into the groundwater system. Once the dam is filled with sediments, the water is pumped out and the sediments are allowed to dry out. Once dried sufficiently, the sediments are extracted mechanically (excavators, front-end-loaders, haul vehicles) and the sediments are processed as agricultural lime (processed by a subcontractor).

4.4 ENVIRONMENTAL EMERGENCY INCIDENTS AND / OR ACCIDENTS Emergency environmental incidents / accidents can be defined as incidents / accidents having the following criteria:

The likelihood of these incidents / accidents occurring is considered to be very low or may never take place during the life of the mine.

The environmental impacts associated with these incidents / accidents may be significant if they are not contained or cleaned immediately.

It is essential that the mine personnel know how to respond in the event of an environmental emergency situation in order to avoid significant environmental degradation / impacts or injury to human health.

Ideally such incidents should not occur. If mining personnel implement all management measures outlined in the EMP, the likelihood of such incidents occurring is greatly reduced. However, despite the best intentions and the best environmental management practices, it is impossible to ensure that no incidents / accidents ever occur on a mining site. Therefore, it is vital to ensure that all personnel are aware of the management measures to be undertaken in the event of an accident. Two potential environmental emergency incidents / accidents have been identified for the mining operations, viz.:

Hydrocarbon spills.

Fire.

4.4.1 Hydrocarbon Spills

Hydrocarbon spills that are considered to be emergency incidents are large-scale spills (cover a surface area >1m

2), resulting from situations such as; a leaking diesel tank, an oil drum that is knocked over, large

spillages during delivery of fuel, etc. Activities that are involved in the clean-up of such instances include the containment of the spill; the removal of all contaminated material, and the disposal (at a licenced hazardous disposal facility) or bioremediation of this material.

4.4.2 Fire

There is the potential for fire to occur in the following locations within the operation:

Veld fires across the vegetated areas of the property.

Buildings, such as the administration offices, weigh-bridge, workshops, etc.

Plant and Vehicle.

25

Waste that does not pose an immediate hazard or threat to health or to the environment and includes domestic waste, building and demolition waste, business waste and inert waste – definition from the National Environmental Management: Waste Act, Act No. 58 of 2008.


Veld fires. Veld fires that are started on the property are likely to start as a result of negligence by staff or members of the public. These fires will not endanger the mining infrastructure, plant, workshop or diesel tank as these facilities are separated from the vegetation by open ground. However, should a fire start on the mine property, any person who observes the fire must report it to their supervisor / fire marshal who will in turn notify the fire brigade immediately. If possible, the mine will send personnel to contain the fire, but only if the lives of the personnel will not be endangered. Buildings, Plant and Vehicles. Fire extinguishers are available in all buildings, in the vehicles and in the plant area. All staff members are trained in the use of firefighting equipment.

4.5 REHABILITATION, DECOMMISSIONING AND CLOSURE The Financial Provision Regulations (GN R1147






Environmental Risk Assessment Report (Appendix 5 of GN R1147). In order to avoid contradictory information in the EMPr and the Plans listed above (which are updated annually), details pertaining to concurrent rehabilitation, decommissioning and closure (i.e. specific activities, time frames, etc.) have not been included in the EMPr (which is not updated annually). Instead lists of potential activities and / or objectives are included in the sections below.

4.5.1 Concurrent Rehabilitation

Concurrent rehabilitation activities that may be undertaken during the life of the mine include:

Alien vegetation removal in accordance with the Annual Rehabilitation Plan


Vegetation of overburden dumps as and when they are created and in accordance with the Annual Rehabilitation Plan

The detailed annual plans for implementation and record keeping will be documented through the Annual Rehabilitation Plan in terms of GN R1147.

4.5.2 Decommissioning and Closure

Based on the latest LTPr, there are adequate reserves for a life of mine exceeding 35.5 years. Therefore, closure of the mine is not imminent and detailed consideration has not been given to Closure, other than what is included in the Long-term Plan and in the Financial Provision reports. There are no specific activities planned for the quarry pit after closure and therefore Atoll must focus on making the quarry safe at the end of life of mine. In order to achieve this, the mine has the following Closure Objectives:

Make the quarry pit safe o Blast and slope the top benches o Enclose the pit with palisade fencing


Identify and address areas of potential contamination

Profile and revegetate disturbed areas (outside of the pit)

26

Regulations Pertaining to the “Financial Provision for Prospecting, Exploration, Mining and Production Operations”; published in November 2015, in terms of the NEMA as amended


4.6 OVERLAY OF ACTIVITIES ON THE SENSITIVITY MAP

Figure 4.1: Overlay of the Activities on the Sensitivity Map

AB

C

E

D

D

DA Processing PlantsB Administration and WeighbridgeC WorkshopsD Overburden DumpsE Pit

Zimbiwa Quarry


5 ASPECT AND IMPACT IDENTIFICATION AND EVALUATION

The content of the EMPr as described in Appendix 4 of the NEMA EIA Regulations (2014) do not include a section for an “environmental impact assessment process” as this would have been undertaken as part of the S&EIA or BA application process. However, as this is an existing mining operation with no new activities proposed that will trigger a listed activity in terms of the NEMA EIA Regulations (2014), no S&EIA or BA has been undertaken. As it is necessary to identify the aspects, impacts and risks in order to develop a management programme, an “environmental impact assessment process” has been undertaken. A brief explanation of the Environmental Impact Assessment Tool used is given in Section 5.1. Full details of the outcome of the Impact Assessment are included in Section 12.3. It is important to note that Zimbiwa Quarry is an existing operational mine. Therefore, planning and design, pre-construction activities and construction activities do not apply to mining related activities and have not been assessed.

5.1 EXPLANATION OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT TOOL

5.1.1 Legal Requirements

The ranking system developed to identify the significance of the impacts created as a result of the mining operations has been developed to take cognisance of the requirements of the MPRDA, Regulation 31(2)(l) of EIA regulation of the NEMA and the requirements of ISO 14001. Regulation 50(c) of the MPRDA, stipulates that the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) must include “an assessment of the nature, extent, duration, probability and significance of the identified potential environmental, social and cultural impacts of the mining operation, including the cumulative environmental impacts”. Regulation 31(2)(l) of the NEMA stipulates that the “assessment of each identified potentially significant impact must include (i) cumulative impacts, (ii) the nature of the impact, (iii) the extent and duration of the impact, (iv) the probability of the impact occurring, (v) the degree to which the impact can be reversed, (vi) the degree to which the impact may cause irreplaceable loss of resources; and (vii) the degree to which the impact can be mitigated”. ISO 14001, section 4.3.1 Environmental Aspects stipulates that “the organisation shall establish, implement and maintain a procedure

a) to identify the environmental aspects of its activities, products and services within a defined scope of the environmental management system that it can control and those that it can influence taking into account planned or new developments, or new or modified activities, products and services, and

b) to determine those aspects that have or can have significant impacts on the environment” When considering the above requirements and for the purpose of this report, the significance of impacts will be determined through the implementation of the following impact assessment model:

5.1.2 Definitions

The terms environment, activity, aspect and impact, will be used technically throughout this document, and so it is important to explain what is meant by each term in the context of the EIA.

Environment (as defined in NEMA): The surroundings within which humans exist and that are made up of:

the land, water and atmosphere of the earth;

micro-organisms, plant and animal life;

any part or combination of the above, and the interrelationships among and between them; and

the physical, chemical, aesthetic and cultural properties and conditions of the foregoing that influence human health and wellbeing;

Activity: A specific deed, action or function, that takes place at the Operation (as described in Section 4 of this report), such as:

Drilling and blasting.


Stockpiling.

Waste management.

Aspect: Considered to be a direct effect of an activity, which has an influence on the environment. It is neither categorised as positive or negative. For example:

Blasting (an activity) causes vibrations and noise (both are aspects of the activity).

Re-vegetation (an activity) causes plant establishment and the creation of habitats (an aspect).

Impact: The end-result of an aspect that occurred due to an activity, resulting in an influence on the environment. The influence is either positive or negative. The determination as to whether an impact is positive or negative is subjective. For example:

Vibrations, an aspect of blasting (an activity), cause structural damage to neighbouring houses (an impact – negative from the perspective of the homeowner).

Vegetation establishment, an aspect of the re-vegetation programme (an activity), prevents topsoil erosion and returns the area to its original condition (an impact – positive from the perspective of soil management and aesthetics).

Criteria to Consider when Determining Significance

The ranking of impacts / determination of significance is estimated using two criteria, namely Consequence and Probability. These consider the contributing factors / criteria listed in the legislation (Section 5.1.1). The definitions of each are provided below. The Consequence of an impact resulting from an aspect is expressed as a combination of:

Nature of impact: An indication of the extent of the damage (negative impacts) or benefit (positive impacts) the impact inflicts on natural, cultural, and/or social functions (environment).

Extent of impact: A spatial indication of the area impacted (i.e. how far from activity the impact is realised).

Duration of impact: A temporal indication of the how long the effects of the impact will persist, assuming the activity creating the impact ceases. For example, the impact of noise is short lived (impact ceases when activity ceases) whereas the impact of removing topsoil exists for a much longer period of time.

Frequency of the aspect occurring: An indication of how often an aspect, as a result of a particular activity, is likely to occur. Note that this does not assess how often the impact occurs. It applies only to the aspect. For example blasting takes place monthly and haulage daily while the resultant frequency of the impacts occurring will vary based on a number of factors.

The Probability of an impact resulting from an aspect is expressed as:

Probability of impact occurring: An estimated indication of the potential for an impact to occur. The Significance of an impact: Considering Consequence and Probability (as defined above), Significance is an indication of how serious a negative impact is anticipated to be and how beneficial a positive impact may be. Significance is considered to be High, Medium-High, Medium, Low-Medium or Low. A description of the ranking process is provided below (Section 5.1.3). It must also be noted that the final significance ranking of an impact will take cognisance of other aspects specified in the legislation, such as:

Cumulative impacts.

Impacts / Issues raised by interested and affected parties (I&AP).

Seasonality where required.

Degree to which the impact can be reversed.

The degree to which the impact may cause irreplaceable loss of resources.

The degree to which the impact can be mitigated. How these are incorporated in the ranking is explained below.

5.1.3 Explanation of Impact Rating

Consequence and Probability

Using the criteria listed in the legislation (Section 5.1.1), scores are assigned to each the criteria, as outlined in Table 5.1. The scoring range in Table 5.1 has been selected to represent the scale in which varying impacts can occur. The combination of scores is then used to determine the Consequence and Probability, as described below. These are then plotted against each other on an XY-scatter chart to


determine the Significance Rating of the impact, as shown in Figure 5.1 – Impact Significance Chart. In this figure the blue dots represent hypothetical impacts.

Consequence is expressed as the sum of all criteria in order to get a score out of 100.

Probability of the impact occurring is expressed as a score out of 100.

Table 5.1: Scoring for environment impact assessment criteria.

In Figure 5.1 the positions of the impact rating boundary curves were defined by trial and error (based on more than 15 years’ experience), using qualitative measures of the perceived significance of a wide range of impacts, from catastrophic aspects through to minor nuisances. This rating system is weighted in such a way as to set impacts that are very likely to occur, but have very little consequence, as Low significance. Similarly, impacts with serious consequences but that are unlikely to occur are rated lower, than impacts with serious consequences that are likely to occur. The significance of an impact is considered to be classified into one of the following; High, Medium-High, Medium, Low-Medium or Low (as shown in the Impact Significance Chart, Figure 5.1. The definition of each classification is provided below and focuses on the need for mitigation or management.

CO

NS

EQ

UE

NC

E

NATURE OF IMPACT:

Low Impacts affect the environment in such a way that natural, cultural and / or social functions and processes are not affected.

1

Low-Medium Impacts affect the environment in such a way that natural, cultural and / or social functions and processes are affected insignificantly.

5

Medium Impacts affect the environment in such a way that natural, cultural and / or social functions and processes are altered.

10

Medium-High Impacts affect the environment in such a way that natural, cultural and / or social functions and processes are severely altered.

15

High Impacts affect the environment in such a way that natural, cultural and / or social functions and processes will temporarily or permanently cease.

25

EXTENT OF IMPACT:

On-site Impact occurs on-site (within the boundary of the mine). 1

Neighbouring Impact occurs within a 5km radius of the site. 5

Local Impact occurs within a 20km radius of the site. 10

Regional Impact occurs within a 100km radius of the site. 15

National Impact occurs within South Africa. 25

DURATION OF IMPACT:

Very Short-term The impact will cease within 1 week if the activity is stopped. 1

Short-term The impact will cease within 1 year if the activity is stopped. 5

Medium-term The impact will cease within 5 years if the activity is stopped. 10

Long-term After the operational life of the operation. 15

Permanent Where mitigation either by natural process or by human intervention will not occur in such a way or in such a time span that the impact can be considered transient.

25

FREQUENCY OF OCCURRENCE OF THE ACTIVITY:

Annually or less Activity occurs at least once in a year or less frequently. 1

6 months Activity occurs at least once in 6 months. 5

Monthly Activity occurs at least once a month. 10

Weekly Activity occurs at least once a week. 15

Daily Activity occurs daily. 25

PR

OB

AB

ILIT

Y PROBABILITY OF POTENTIAL OCCURRENCE OF THE IMPACT:

Improbable The possibility of the impact materialising is very low either because of design or historic experience.

10

Low The possibility of the impact materialising is low either because of design or historic experience.

30

Medium There is a possibility that the impact will occur. 60

High There is a distinct possibility that the impact will occur. 80

Definite The impact will occur regardless of any prevention measures. 100


SIGNIFICANCE:

Low Management measures may not be necessary, but in some instances are encouraged to ensure that the impact remains of Low significance.

Low-Medium Management measures are usually encouraged to ensure that the impacts remain of Low-Medium significance.

Medium Management measures are required to ensure, at minimum, the significance of the impact does not increase.

Medium-High Management measures are required to reduce the significance of the impact to, at least, Medium significance.

High Impact should be avoided, or if not possible, managed to reduce the significance of the impact to, at least, Medium significance (where possible).

Figure 5.1: An example of an Impact Significance hart with Consequence plotted as a function of Probable Frequency, with regions of varying significance.

The positions of the impact rating boundary curves were defined by trial and error (based on more than 15 years’ experience), using qualitative measures of the perceived significance of a wide range of impacts, from catastrophic aspects through to minor.

Additional Factors that Contribute to Significance of an Impact

Additional factors that can contribute to the significance rating of an impact after it has been scored include Cumulative Impacts and input from I&AP (explained below). In these instances, more emphasis should be placed on management measures requirement.

Cumulative Impacts: Cumulative Impacts will be considered where off-site activities (not related to the operation being evaluated) will result in the same impact at the receptors being considered. For example, dust will be considered cumulatively for a sand mine located adjacent to an unrehabilitated gold mine tailings dam. In the impact assessment tables presented for each activity, the column for Cumulative Impacts will indicate whether the impact is being considered cumulatively. The spatial extent for the consideration of off-site impacts will be determined individually for each impact depending on factors such as the medium of dispersal of the pollutant causing the impact.

Seasonality: Some impacts are affected by climatic conditions. For example, dust emissions are likely to be higher during dry windy periods, resulting in an increased significance ranking. Similarly impacts associated with stormwater are only likely to be realised when there is rain, and having no impact during dry periods. Therefore, the significance ranking of these impacts will change with the changes in


climatic conditions. In the impact assessment, it will indicate whether the impact is influenced by climatic conditions.

Impacts / Issues raised by Interested and Affected Parties: For new and existing operations, I&AP will be consulted, either during the compilation of the impact assessment (for new operations) or part of an existing / on-going consultation process (for existing operations). During this consultation process, I&AP will identify concerns relating to impacts resulting from activities associated with the operation. In the impact assessment tables presented for each activity, the column for I&AP will indicate whether the impact has been identified as a concern by I&AP.

Additional Factors that do not Contribute to the Significance of an Impact

In addition to the factors already considered, the NEMA stipulates that the impact assessment must consider the following for “each identified potentially significant impact”; namely “the degree to which the impact can be reversed”, “the degree to which the impact may cause irreplaceable loss of resources”, and “the degree to which the impact can be mitigated”. Although these factors are important in the evaluation of the impacts, they will not be applicable to all impacts and hence, may not influence the significance rating of an impact (explained below). During the impact assessment for this report, the impacts associated with each activity are considered separately in order to identify the most significant sources of pollution. The reason being, this information will be used to prioritise management efforts and guide the focus of environmental management. Therefore, the assessment of each impact according to the criteria listed below is, in many cases, impractical and irrelevant.

Degree to which the Impact can be Reversed: Due to the way in which impacts are evaluated in this report, many impacts that are identified are a direct consequence of an activity and cannot be reversed. For example, dust generation from loading and hauling or materials handling. Indicating that these impacts cannot be reversed implies that they should be avoided. In many cases this is not possible as the activity is vital to the functioning of the operation. Therefore, this Factor will only be considered for impacts that are associated with the operation as a whole (not activity specific impacts) and it will be indicated whether the operation will be able to function if the activities causing the impacts are stopped.

Degree to which the Impact may cause Irreplaceable Loss of Resources: As described above, the way in which the impact evaluation in this report is undertaken makes it impractical to evaluate this Factor for each impact related to an activity. Therefore, this Factor will only be considered for impacts that are associated with the operation as a whole (not activity specific impacts) and it will be indicated whether the operation will be able to function if the activities causing the impacts are stopped.

Degree to which the Impact can be Mitigated: It is not possible to quantify the degree to which an impact can be mitigated as a single figure. As an alternative, this report considers the significance rating of an impact before and after mitigation. The impact assessment (as outlined in Section 12.3) considers the significance rating of an impact either without mitigation (for a new operation) or with the mitigation already being implemented (for existing operations). Where applicable, the re-evaluation of an impact is then provided in Section 7 after the management measures have been outlined.

Confidence Ranking: Although this is not a legally required factor in the assessment of impacts, it is provided for information purposes. The rating of impacts is based on various sources of information; such as specialist input, monitoring results, experience of the authors, etc. Therefore, the degree of accuracy of the significance ranking will vary depending on the source of information. Therefore, the author has provided a brief indication of the degree of accuracy / confidence ranking for information purposes.


6 ENVIRONMENTAL GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

The primary objective of any mining operation is to make a profit. Without a profit, it is not possible for the mine to continue operating or have the funds available to meet the environmental or socio-economic goals and objectives set out in this section of the report.

6.1 ENVIRONMENTAL LEGISLATION For the mining operation as a whole, the mine’s goal is to comply with all environmental legislation.

National Environmental Management Act, Act 107 of 1998 (NEMA)

As the NEMA is the cornerstone of all environmental legislation, the management measures implemented by the mine will strive to adhere to the principles of NEMA. The specific principles which Zimbiwa Quarry feels are most relevant to their environmental goals and objectives have been listed below (the reference numbers provided are the same as those in the legislation):

(4)(a) Sustainable development requires the consideration of all relevant factors including the following:

That the disturbance of ecosystems and loss of biological diversity are avoided, or, where they cannot be altogether avoided, are minimised and remedied;

that pollution and degradation of the environment are avoided, or, where they cannot be altogether avoided, are minimised and remedied;

that the disturbance of landscapes and sites that constitute the nations cultural heritage is avoided, or where it cannot be altogether avoided, is minimised and remedied;

that waste is avoided, or where it cannot be altogether avoided, minimised and reused or recycled where possible and otherwise disposed of in a responsible manner;

that the use and exploitation of non-renewable natural resources is responsible and equitable, and takes into account the consequences of the depletion of the resource;

that a risk averse and cautious approach is applied, which takes into account the limits of current knowledge about the consequences of decisions and actions; and

that negative impacts on the environment and on people’s environmental rights be anticipated and prevented, and where they cannot be altogether prevented, are minimised and remedied.

(b) Environmental management must be integrated, acknowledging that all elements of the environment are linked and interrelated, and it must take into account the effects of decisions on all aspects of the environment and all people in the environment by pursuing the selection of the best practicable environmental option.

(c) Environmental justice must be pursued so that adverse environmental impacts shall not be distributed in such a manner as to unfairly discriminate against any person, particularly vulnerable and disadvantaged persons.

(d) Equitable access to environmental resources, benefits and services to meet basic human needs and ensure human wellbeing must be pursued and special measures may be taken to ensure access thereto by categories of persons disadvantaged by unfair discrimination.

(e) Responsibility for the environmental health and safety consequences of a policy, programme, project, product, process, service or activity exists throughout its life cycle.

(f) The participation of all interested and affected parties in environmental governance must be promoted, and all people must have the opportunity to develop the understanding, skills and capacity necessary for achieving equitable and effective participation, and participation by vulnerable and disadvantaged persons must be ensured.

(g) Decisions must take into account the interests, needs and values of all interested and affected parties, and this includes recognising all forms of knowledge, including traditional and ordinary knowledge.

(h) Community wellbeing and empowerment must be promoted through environmental education, the raising of environmental awareness, the sharing of knowledge and experience and other appropriate means.

(i) The social, economic and environmental impacts of activities, including disadvantages and benefits, must be considered, assessed and evaluated, and decisions must be appropriate in the light of such consideration and assessment.


k) Decisions must be taken in an open and transparent manner, and access to information must be provided in accordance with the law.

(o) The environment is held in public trust for the people, the beneficial use of environmental resources must serve the public interest and the environment must be protected as the people’s common heritage.

(p) The costs of remedying pollution, environmental degradation and consequent adverse health effects and of preventing, controlling or minimising further pollution, environmental damage or adverse health effects must be paid for by those responsible for harming the environment.

All of the above principles have been considered when developing the environmental management measures documented in Section 7. All of the above principles have been considered when developing the environmental management measures for the mining operations, documented in Section 7.2.

Minerals and Petroleum Resources Development Act, Act No. 28 of 2002 (MPRDA)

In the spirit of the MPRDA, the mine’s objective is to change their attitude from one of compliance with environmental legislation to one of maximising the benefits of compliance. This will not be an instantaneous change and will only be realised through the commitment of all staff members. It is hoped that over time, personnel will be able to take the environmental concepts learned in the work place to their place of residence and /or home.

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

Given that water is such a precious resource in South Africa, it is the mines objective to comply with the purpose of the NWA, which “is to ensure that the nation's water resources are protected, used, developed, conserved, managed and controlled in ways which take into account” a number of factors. Those applicable to activities at the mine are listed below (the reference numbers provided are the same as those in the legislation):

(2)(g) protecting aquatic and associated ecosystems and their biological diversity;

(h) reducing and preventing pollution and degradation of water resources;

(j) promoting dam safety;

(k) managing floods and droughts, In addition, the mine will implement water management related goals and objectives as outlined in Section 6.1.3.

National Environmental Management: Air Quality Act, Act 39 of 2004 (NEM:AQA)

The mine supports the objectives of the NEM:AQA in that it will control atmospheric emissions (particularly fugitive dust) arising from operational activities. The NEM:AQA objectives applicable to activities at Zimbiwa Quarry are listed below (the reference numbers provided are the same as those in the legislation):

(2)(a) “protect the environment by providing reasonable measures for –

“the protection and enhancement of the quality of air in the Republic”; and

The prevention of air pollution and degradation. In addition, the mine will implement air quality (fugitive dust) related goals and objectives as outlined in Section 6.1.1.


National Environmental Management: Waste Act, Act 59 of 2008 (NEM:WA)

Pollution is often associated with the incorrect handling and storage of waste. Therefore, it is the mines objective to recognise and fulfil their duties in respect of waste management. In order to achieve this, their goals will be to take all reasonable measures to (the reference numbers provided are the same as those in the legislation):

16(1)(a) avoid the generation of waste and where such generation cannot be avoided , to minimise the toxicity and amount of wastes that are generated;

(b) reduce, re-use, recycle and recover waste;

(c) where waste must be disposed of, ensure that the waste is treated and disposed of in an environmentally sound manner;

(d) manage the waste in such a manner that it does not endanger health or the environment or cause a nuisance through noise, odour or visual impacts;

(e) prevent any employee or any person under his or her supervision from contravening this Act; and

(f) prevent any waste from being used for an unauthorised purpose.

National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act, Act 10 of 2004

The purpose of the Biodiversity Act is to provide for the management and conservation of South Africa’s biodiversity within the framework of the NEMA and the protection of species and ecosystems that warrant national protection. The management measures implemented by the mine will strive to adhere to the principles as set out in the Chapter 4 and Chapter 5 of the Act. The specific principles which the mine feels are most relevant to their environmental goals and objectives have been listed below, (the reference numbers provided are the same as those in the legislation):

51(a) provide for the protection of ecosystems that are threatened or in need of protection to ensure the maintenance of their ecological integrity; and

(b) provide for the protection of species that are threatened or in need of protection to ensure their survival in the wild;

64(1)(a) to prevent the unauthorized introduction and spread of alien species and invasive species to ecosystems and habitats where they do not naturally occur;

(b) to manage and control alien species and invasive species to prevent or minimize harm to the environment and to biodiversity in particular; and

(c) to eradicate alien species and invasive species from ecosystems and habitats where they may harm such ecosystems or habitats.

Therefore, it is the mine’s objective to comply with the spirit of the Act, through ensuring legal compliance.

Conservation of Agricultural Resources Act, Act No. 43 of 1983 (CARA)

Although many aspects of CARA are not applicable to mining operations, there are two aspects that are very applicable for which goals and objectives have been established, viz.:

Erosion control:

It is the mine’s objective to minimise the potential for and impacts associated with erosion.

In order to meet this objective, it is the mine’s goal to ensure that areas where erosion has occurred in the past are managed in such a way that future erosion is prevented.

Alien vegetation control:

It is the mine’s objective to prevent the spread of alien vegetation.

In order to meet this objective, it is the mine’s goal to remove alien vegetation from the mining site and re-vegetate the cleared areas with indigenous vegetation.

6.1.1 Fugitive Dust

As dust has been identified as an area of concern during the public participation process, the mine’s objective is to reduce dust emissions from the operation through the implementation of management measures. In order to ensure that the management measures being implemented are successful, the mine


will monitor off-site dustfall levels. Using the results of this monitoring, the mine will be able to determine if they are meeting with their goals regarding dust fallout, viz.

Source Based Goals

Unpaved haul roads: On-site dustfall rates of stations next to the roads <1,200 mg/m2/day.

Overburden dumps: On-site dustfall rates immediately downwind <1,200 mg/m2/day.

Crushing Operation: The absence of a visible dust plume from the crusher and screening operations is the best indicator of effective control equipment in place. In addition the on-site dustfall in the immediate vicinity of various sources within the plant <1,200 mg/m

2/day.

Receptor Based Goals

Kingsway: Off-site dustfall <600mg/m2/day.

Brakpan North: Off-site dustfall <600mg/m2/day.

When evaluating these goals, it must be noted that the mine is not the only source of fugitive dust in the vicinity of these monitoring stations and analysis of the dustfall samples will be necessary.

6.1.2 Noise

As noise has been identified as an area of concern during the public participation process (despite the specialist study indicating this is not a concern – Section 12.3 and van Zyl, 2006; Section 12.10), the mine’s objective is to ensure off-site noise levels as a result of mining do not exceed SANS. In order to determine if the mine is meeting their objective, off-site noise monitoring will be undertaken. The goal will be to ensure that off-site noise levels are within the SANS 10103.

6.1.3 Water Consumption

Consumption

Given that water is such a precious resource in South Africa and in the spirit of the NWA, it is the mine’s objective to reduce their water consumption. The mine intends achieving this by implementing new technology (the goal) that removes the need to wash sand in order to remove the fine fraction (-75µm). The mine has already achieved this goal on one of their plants where they have installed a cyclone to separate the fine fraction form the sand. Due to the success of this technology, the mine has ordered a second cyclone which will be installed on the second plant by 2010. In the spirit of the NWA, it is the mine’s goal not to use potable water for industrial purposes. The mine aims to achieve this by utilising stormwater run-off collected in stormwater retention ponds or recycled water from the mine as process water (only applicable till 2010). By striving towards the reduction of water consumption, the mine is also supporting the objectives of the NWA by conserving and managing their available water resource. Still in support of the spirit of the NWA, it is the mine’s objective not to release polluted water from the property. In order to ensure this their goal is to temporarily contain stormwater on-site in retention ponds and periodically test this water before it is released.

Use

In the spirit of the NWA, it is the mine’s goal not to use potable water for industrial purposes. The mine aims to achieve this by utilising stormwater run-off collected in stormwater retention ponds or recycled water from the mine as process water (only applicable till 2010). By striving towards the reduction of water consumption, the mine is also supporting the objectives of the NWA by conserving and managing their available water resource.

Pollution

Still in support of the spirit of the NWA, it is the mine’s objective not to release polluted water from the property. In order to ensure this their goal is to temporarily contain stormwater on-site in retention ponds and periodically test this water before it is released.

6.1.4 Blasting

The risk of damage to off-site structures as a result of blasting has also been identified as a concern by I&AP. The mine’s objective will be to ensure that blasting within the pit does not cause any damage to off-


site structures. In order to ensure that this is achieved, the mine’s goal will be to ensure that off-site impacts (airblast and vibration) at the fixed monitoring locations are within the USBM acceptable limits.

6.1.5 Waste Management

As indicated previously, incorrect handling and storage of waste will result in environmental impacts (i.e. pollution). Therefore, the mine’s objective is to avoid the generation of pollution associated with incorrect waste handling. In order to achieve this, their goals will be to:

Minimise the generation of waste in accordance with NEMA principals - 4(a)(ii).

Re-use or recycle where possible in accordance with NEMA principals - 4(a)(ii).

Manage (reduce / re-use / recycle / recover) waste in accordance with the NEM:WA.

6.1.6 Environmental Awareness Training:

The mine recognises that there are potential environmental impacts associated with human ignorance. Therefore, it is the mine’s objective to educate their staff with regards to the impacts associated with their job. The goal is then to reduce the chance for environmental incidents as a result of human error through implementing the site specific environmental awareness training.

6.2 SOCIO-ECONOMIC GOALS AND OBJECTIVES The goals and objective is to implement the following aspects of the approved Social and Labour Plan:

Employment Equity.

Skills Development Plan.

Training.

Portable Skills Training.

Career Progression Plan.

Mentorship Plan.

Procurement.

Preference / targeting.

Local Economic Development (LED). Infrastructure and poverty eradication projects. Infrastructure Development. Community Development.

6.3 HERITAGE GOALS AND OBJECTIVES There are no heritage resources located within the mining right boundary and hence there are no goals and objectives specified.

6.4 CLOSURE GOALS AND OBJECTIVES The Financial Provision Regulations (GN R1147






Environmental Risk Assessment Report (Appendix 5 of GN R1147). In order to avoid contradictory information in the EMPr and the Plans listed above (which are updated annually), details pertaining to concurrent rehabilitation, decommissioning and closure (i.e. specific activities, time frames, etc.) have not been included in the EMPr (which is not updated annually). Instead lists of potential activities and / or objectives are included in Section 4.5.

27



7 IMPACT MANAGEMENT AND COMPLIANCE

The potential impacts associated with the mining operation have been outlined and evaluated in Section 12.3 of this report. This section (Section 7) of the report provides a description of the management measure to be implemented to prevent / minimise / mitigate / manage the identified impacts (taking cognisance of the principals of NEMA). The sequence of presentation of the impact assessment in Section 12.3 has been determined based on the requirements of the MPRDA and the Gauteng DMR

28. In order to facilitate the review process and the

implementation of the management programme, this section of the report has been set out in the same sequence as the Process Description in Section 4 and the Impact Assessment in Section 12.3, providing management measures for impacts ranked as having a MEDIUM to HIGH significance ranking. In some cases, management measures have also been proposed for impacts of LOW or LOW-MEDIUM significance, in order to ensure that the significance of these impacts do not increase with time. In summary the management measures outlined in this section of the report are provided for:

Construction Phase.

Operational Phase.

Supporting Services and Activities.

Emergency Incidents.

Socio-economic Aspects.

Decommissioning and Closure Phases.

Environmental Parameters.

Monitoring and EMP Performance Assessment. The presentation of the management measures / the Management Programme has been set out providing the following information in order to meet the requirements of the MPRDA and the Gauteng DMR

28:

The goals and objectives that may be applicable to that activity (if any).

The significance ranking of the impact.

The action plans / management measures that must be implemented.

The time frames for implementation. For some management measures specific timeframes cannot be highlighted however, they must be implemented for the “life of mine” and hence presented as LoM.

The re-evaluation of the impacts as a result of implementation of the management measures has been described for impacts that are ranked as having a MEDIUM significance and above. If no comment has been included, then the significance of the impact cannot be reduced through the implementation of the management measures described.

If alternatives have been considered, these have been indicated.

28

As outlined in a letter dated 20 January 2012.


7.1 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT DURING THE CONSTRUCTION PHASE As this report serves as an update to the EMPR and EMP of existing operations, there is no construction phase and no management measures are proposed.

7.2 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT DURING THE OPERATIONAL PHASE The description of management measures to be implemented as part of the Operational Phase of both the quarry and the mining of the dumps (together referred to as the mine) and are presented in the same sequence as the process description (of the activities) in Section 4 and the impact assessment in Section 12.3.

7.2.1 Mine Planning

Goals and Objectives: Minimise the mine footprint while achieving optimal utilisation of mineral resources within the mining right area, considering the final closure landform for the mine. Although the positive impact of mine planning cannot be ranked as the benefits cannot be quantified, the following management measures apply to mine planning:

Generate and maintain long term mine plans that consider the final decommissioning objectives.

Mine plans must indicate the following:

- Demarcation of the mine property (Mining Right area).

- Location of all overburden dumps.

- Location of stormwater control structures.

- Location of infrastructure and buildings.

- Location of settlement dams.

- Location of existing servitudes (if any).

Management of overburden must be included in mine planning.

Hold and document Quarry Planning Meetings (QPM) ensuring the following topics are discussed at the QPM:

- Overburden dumping.

- Environmental monitoring results.

- Stormwater management.

- Alien vegetation removal.

- Concurrent rehabilitation activities.

- Final closure requirements.

- Environmental complaints.

7.2.2 Stripping of Vegetation and Topsoil

As indicated earlier in the report, mining of opencast operations usually starts with the stripping of vegetation and topsoil. The mining area of the pit has been extensively disturbed through previous mining and stockpiling activities. Therefore, there are no areas that still contain any topsoil worth preserving or any areas where there is indigenous vegetation that has not been disturbed. Hence, the Stripping of Topsoil and Vegetation will not be undertaken no management measures are proposed.


7.2.3 Stripping, Hauling and Stockpiling of Overburden

Goals and Objectives: Minimise impacts associated with the stripping and stockpiling of overburden which will be stored for use during rehabilitation and maintain a vegetation cover of 60% on all overburden dumps.

SIG29

IMPACT: MANAGEMENT & MITIGATION TIMEFRAMES

M 1. Dust: See Section 7.7.3: Materials Handling. When required.

M 2. Dust: See Section 7.7.3: Haulage. Daily.

L 3. Noise: See Section 7.7.4: Operating Hours. LoM30

.

M M-H

4. Surface water run-off: See Stormwater Management Plan31

(Section 4.3.2 and Section 12.6). LoM.

L-M 5. Water pollution: Implement the Stormwater Management Plan31


M M-H M

6. Dust, Visual & Water pollution: Once an overburden dump has been created, it must be covered with indigenous vegetation, preferably hardy grass species. This vegetation cover (minimum of 60% cover) must be maintained throughout the life of the mine.

LoM.

M 7. Visual: Removal of overburden to be undertaken in accordance with the Mine Plan to avoid stripping of non-mining areas. LoM.

8. General: When selecting the site for the overburden stockpiles:

The overburden stockpile must not be located in an area where it is known that mining will occur before the overburden is used in rehabilitation. This will prevent double handing of the material which is an unnecessary cost to the mine and which also increases dust emissions throughout the life of the mine.

The stockpile must be indicated in the mine plan.

No new (May 2012) overburden may be dumped adjacent to the Klein Blesbokspruit (on the eastern side of the existing dumps) as this area is within the 1:50 year flood line of the canal and alterations to this area are likely to cause flooding above the current 1:50 flood line on the western bank of the canal.

LoM.

9. General: All overburden removed from the mining area must be stockpiled for use in rehabilitation. During clearing.

Re-evaluation of Impacts: Surface water run-off (M-H): Although the implementation of the Stormwater Management Plan will reduce the volume of water flowing into the pit (being lost to the catchment), it will not be possible to reduce the significance of this impact as the run-off from the area being cleared cannot be captured and directed to the Klein Blesbokspruit. Therefore, the water will still be lost to the catchment. Visual (M): The vegetation of the overburden dumps will improve the aesthetics and reduce the Consequence and Probability of the impact.

29

Significance ranking as presented in Section 12.3). 30

Throughout the life of mine. 31

The Stormwater Management Plan included in Section 12.6 is currently being amended in accordance with the current and long-term mine plans (with input from Chris Brooker). Once this plan is completed, the amended plan will be implemented.


7.2.4 Drilling, Blasting and Secondary Breaking

Goals and Objectives:

Minimise the dust and noise generated during drilling and blasting.

Reduce the potential for damage to off-site houses.

Ensure safety during blasting.

SIG29


L-M 1. Structural damage: The houses inspected by the independent contractor prior to the granting of the Mining Right will be used to determine if any structural damage is being caused in residential areas, if complaints are received.

LoM.

L 2. Dust: All drill rigs are fitted with a dust extraction unit. Inspection of this unit must for part of the routine maintenance of the drill rigs. If the extraction unit is observed to non-functional, it must be repaired immediately.

LoM.

L 3. Noise: When drilling at shallower depths, the hours of operation will be restricted to 7am to 6pm, Monday to Friday. When drilling nearer that base of the pit, the hours of operation will be restricted to 7am to 10pm, Monday to Saturday. However, if off-site noise monitoring shows that the extended hours of drilling (deeper in the pit) increases the off-site noise levels to unacceptable levels, drilling will be restricted to 7am to 6pm, Monday to Friday.

LoM, when drilling.

L 4. Noise: Technology will be used to reduce noise during blasting, such as the use of electronic blast initiation. Note: The technology used may change during the life of the mine as blasting technology changes.

LoM, when blasting.

L 5. Noise: Blasting will take place between 12pm and 4pm, Monday to Friday32

. LoM, when blasting.

M 6. Fly-rock: A qualified blaster (operating through a reputable company) will be used. He /she will reduce the potential for flyrock by ensuring:

A free face is used as an initiation point.

Use of the correct amount and type of stemming in holes.

The correct burden in the front rows is used.

The timing of the blast is correct.

LoM, when blasting.

Time of blasting.

Notification of mine personnel.

Monitoring requirements.

Reporting requirements.

H 7. Mine planning / Altered topography: Mining of the benches must ensure that it will be possible to slope the pit walls at the end of life of mine in line with the selected closure alternative.

LoM.

32

The Noise Survey (Section 12.10) identified later blasts as being preferable (between 4pm and 5:30pm) for the following reasons:

(a) Typical atmospheric temperature profiles arising in the afternoon when the earth has heated up relative to the atmosphere, cause sound waves to curve skywards, resulting in lower noise levels and lower impact at ground level. It should be emphasised that this is the typical tendency; depending on weather conditions, atmospheric profiles could be neutral or occasionally even have the opposite effect. (b) Ambient noise levels, which for all practical purposes, is determined by nearby and general traffic in the area, reaches a maximum during this time of the day. Consequently, the environment becomes less sensitive to intrusive noise, resulting in a smaller impact for the same blast noise level.


Re-evaluation of Impacts: Altered topography (H): Although this is the only impact with a High significance ranking, it is not possible to mitigate for this impact in such a way that the significance will be reduced.

7.2.5 Loading, Hauling and Stockpiling of Mined Material

Goals and Objectives: Reduce dust emissions during hauling by ensuring a control efficiency of 85% to 90% for dust suppression on roads.

SIG29




L 3. Noise: See Section 7.7.4: Operating Hours. LoM.

M & L

4. Surface water run-off & Water pollution: Implement the Stormwater Management Plan31


M 5. Visual: Construct and vegetate the overburden along the property boundary. LoM.

Re-evaluation of Impacts: Visual (L-M): The construction and vegetation of the overburden dumps along the mine boundary will screen the operation and reduce the visual impact of the activities. The improved aesthetics will reduce the Consequence and Probability of the impact.

7.2.6 Crushing and Screening

Goals and Objectives:

Reduce the dust fallout recorded in the vicinity of the plant. Reduce the off-site noise levels recorded in neighbouring communities.

SIG29


L-M to M

1. Dust: Install water sprays on transfer points within the plant. LoM.

The sprays must create a fine mist that forms a water blanket to trap the dust at the transfer point rather than wet the material. Daily. The effectiveness of these sprays must be checked as part of routine maintenance. If the sprays are not effective (clogged)

they must be cleaned / replaced within a day. Daily.

L-M to M

2. Dust & Noise: Enclose both primary crushers to contain both dust and noise. LoM.

L-M 3. Noise: Hang material around the outside of the crushers (excluding the primary crushers) and screens to limit the dispersal of noise, while not restricting access for maintenance purposes. Such material could include old conveyor belting.

LoM.

L-M 4. Noise: All screens must be of a material that limits the noise generated by the impact of the stone on the screen surface; i.e. rubber screens.

LoM.

M 5. Visual: Construct and vegetate the overburden along the property boundary. LoM.

Re-evaluation of Impacts: Dust & Noise (L to L-M): The implementation of the management measures listed above will reduce dust and noise emissions and potentially reduce the Consequence of these impacts. Visual (L-M): The construction and vegetation of the overburden dumps along the mine boundary will screen the operation and reduce the visual impact of the activities. The improved aesthetics will reduce the Consequence and Probability of the impact.


7.2.7 Mining of Dolomitic “Waste” Dumps

Goals and objectives:

Minimise the dust and noise generated during secondary breaking.

Reduce dust emissions during hauling by ensuring a control efficiency of 85% to 90% for dust suppression on roads.

Reduce the dust fallout recorded in the vicinity of the plant.

Reduce the off-site noise levels recorded in neighbouring communities.

SIG29




L-M to M

3. Dust: Install water sprays on transfer points within the plant. LoM.

The sprays must create a fine mist that forms a water blanket to trap the dust at the transfer point rather than wet the material. Daily. The effectiveness of these sprays must be checked as part of routine maintenance. If the sprays are not effective (clogged)

they must be cleaned / replaced within a day. Daily.

L-M to M

4. Dust & Noise: Enclose both primary crushers to contain both dust and noise. LoM.


L-M 6. Noise: Hang material around the outside of the crushers (excluding the primary crushers) and screens to limit the dispersal of noise, while not restricting access for maintenance purposes. Such material could include old conveyor belting.

LoM.

L-M 7. Noise: All screens must be of a material that limits the noise generated by the impact of the stone on the screen surface; i.e. rubber screens.

LoM.

M & L

8. Surface water run-off & Water pollution: Implement the Stormwater Management Plan31


Re-evaluation of Impacts: Dust & Noise (L to L-M): The implementation of the management measures listed above will reduce dust and noise emissions and potentially reduce the Consequence of these impacts.

7.3 SUPPORTING SERVICES AND ACTIVITIES

7.3.1 Water Supply

Potable water

No management measures are proposed.


Process Water

Goals and Objectives: Minimise the use of “clean” and / or purified water for process purposes.

SIG29


L-M 1. Extraction from Klein Blesbokspruit: In order to reduce the volume of water required from the Klein Blesbokspruit, the mine will:

Collect all “dirty” water (stormwater run-off from the plant area) for use as process water.

When possible, ensure that only “dirty water” is used for process water.

Daily.

L 2. Water pollution: Implement the Stormwater Management Plan31


3. General: The volume of water being used in the process must be monitored and evaluated.

Monitoring: Flow meters must be installed at strategic points to record water use within various areas of the plant.

Evaluate: In order to use the data recorded, the mine must evaluate:

Water use against production figures (ℓ used per ton produced).

Historic water use.

If the water use is recorded to be increasing, the reason must be investigated and corrective action / implementation of appropriate management measures must be undertaken immediately.

Monthly.

Re-evaluation of Impacts: Extraction from Klein Blesbokspruit: If collected “dirty” water is used effectively, there will be no need to extract water from the Klein Blesbokspruit and there will be no associated impacts.

7.3.2 Stormwater Management

Goals and Objectives: Reduce the pollution potential on the Klein Blesbokspruit.

SIG29


L 1. Water pollution: Implement the Stormwater Management Plan31


2. Water pollution: Maintain stormwater drains and retention ponds as follows: LoM.

Clearing all sediments collected in the drains. All stormwater drains will be inspected by a designated responsible person

once a week during the rainy season (October to March) and once a month during the dry season (April to September). If the drains contain any sediments or material that will block the flow of water, this material must be removed within 24 hours.

Weekly (Oct – Mar). Monthly (Apr – Sep).

Clearing all sediments collected in the stormwater retention ponds. All stormwater retention ponds will be inspected by a designated responsible person once a week during the rainy season (October to March) and once a month during the dry season (April to September). If the drains contain any sediments or material that will reduce the capacity of the ponds, this material must be removed within 24 hours.

Weekly (Oct – Mar). Monthly (Apr – Sep).

3. Erosion: Management of erosion will be undertaken as per the Erosion Management Plan outlined below this table. LoM.


Erosion Management Plan

It is important to note that the purpose of the Erosion Management Plan is to rehabilitate any erosion channel created and to identify and rectify the cause for the erosion, thereby ensuring that erosion does not keep occurring at the same place. In order to manage erosion, it is necessary to understand the various types of erosion, viz.:

Sheet Erosion: This type of erosion occurs when surface water moves down a slope in a wide flow and peels off fairly uniform sheets or layers of soil (Miller, 2000).

Rill Erosion: This is the most common form of erosion, whereby soil is removed by water from little streamlets, causing numerous small channels a few centimetres deep. This type of erosion occurs mainly on recently cultivated soils and may result in gully erosion if un-rehabilitated.

Gully Erosion: The erosion process whereby water accumulates in narrow channels and, over short periods, removes the soil from this narrow area to considerable depths, ranging from 300mm / 600mm to more than 20m.

Monitoring for Erosion It is advisable to ensure that the person appointed to monitor erosion understands what erosion is and can identify the different types of erosion. Training can be undertaken by showing the relevant person existing erosion on-site (if any is present) or using photographs of the various types of erosion. Monitoring will be undertaken by walking across the site (schedule provided in Table 7.1), with emphasis being placed on areas with a high erosion potential, such as:

The mining area, particularly overburden slopes of the pit and any access roads.

Overburden dumps, particularly those covered with subsoil or topsoil.

All areas throughout the mining site with no established vegetation cover.

Table 7.1: Schedule for erosion monitoring.

MONTH AVERAGE

MONTHLY

RAINFALL

AVERAGE NO. RAIN-DAYS /

MONTH FREQUENCY OF SITE VISIT

October 72mm 10 Minimum of every two weeks, with incidental monitoring being undertaken after storm events where an excess of 15mm is recorded. It is important to note that if 15mm falls as light rainfall over two days, the need for incidental monitoring is reduced. However, if 10mm is recorded in a short period of time (e.g. 30 minutes), the potential for erosion increases and incidental monitoring should be undertaken.

November 117mm 15

December 105mm 15

January 125mm 16

February 90mm 11

March 91mm 12

April 54mm 9 One visit during April, with incidental monitoring after any storm event greater than 10mm.

May 13mm 3

One visit during July or after any storm event greater than 10mm during the May to August period.

June 9mm 2

July 4mm 1

August 6mm 2

September 27mm 4 One visit during September, with incidental monitoring after any storm event greater than 10mm

If erosion is identified during the routine inspections, management of this erosion must be carried out (as described below) within one week. If erosion is identified along the strip between the overburden dumps and the Klein Blesbokspruit canal, management measures must be implemented within 3 days (Brooker, 2006).

Management of Erosion Rill Erosion Erosion control of areas affected by rill erosion can be achieved either by reducing the amount of run-off, or reducing the velocity of the run-off. This can be achieved by implementing one of the following basic erosion control methods:

Stone and broken rock coverings: This is a simple and long used technique of erosion control. It involves the manual laying of a loose covering of stone on the soil surface, both in the areas affected by rill erosion and upstream of the eroded area. The purpose of laying stones both above and in the eroded area is to reduce the velocity of the run-off.


Rock barriers: There are barriers of hand-packed rocks packed across the erosion channel (perpendicular to the flow of water) and secured into the erosion channel wall. (This option, it is important to note that these structures are not very effective if they are not laid properly.) The rock barriers reduce the erosive power of water, thus allowing sedimentation on either side of the rock barrier. Once sedimentation has begun, vegetation can once again establish and stabilise the soils. The size of the rocks used in this type of erosion control will depend on the depth of the channel. It must be noted that the rocks must allow water to flow over them (the barrier must not fill the channel) in order to avoid the run-off from flowing around the rock barrier and creating erosion cannels on either side of the barrier.

Slat / Brush fence: This type of erosion control is effective if rill erosion has occurred over a wide area. The fence / barrier is created using vegetation, such as brushwood. The material is anchored in place between two rows of posts that are driven vertically into the soil across the eroded area. The loose branches or small trees (brushwood) are packed tightly in between the rows of posts, making an impermeable barrier. It is important to shape the fence in an arc and to ensure that the ends of the brush piles are secured in mounds of sand to prevent water washing around the fence and causing more erosion. The top of the brush pile, located in the centre of the arc must be lower than the sides to encourage water to flow across here, rather than round the sides. The fence need not be high (only a few centimetres), and can be determined by the volume of water anticipated to flow off the slope.

Management of Sheet Erosion: Surface water channels must be created upstream of the erosion area to divert the majority of water away from the problem area. Once this is implemented, the area where sheet erosion occurred should be re-vegetated with indigenous grasses. Once vegetation cover has been established, the surface water channel(s) created to divert flow must be filled in and vegetated. Vegetating soils will also increase the organic matter and humus content of the soils which will help aggregate soil particles, which will facilitate infiltration of rainfall, thereby reducing runoff which may cause erosion (Russell, 1998).

Management of Gully Erosion: With regular monitoring and management of rill erosion, it is very unlikely that gully erosion will develop. However, if for some reason, large scale gulleys do develop of the mining site, they will be managed as described below. The stabilising of gully erosion can only be achieved through the management of the catchment and the treatment of the gully itself. When undertaking gulley management, it must be noted that the ultimate objective is to stabilise the gulley bottom and banks by means of vegetation. The activities described in this management plan are merely a means of achieving that objective. The basic approach to gulley stabilisation is to construct structures at specific points in the gulley to trap sediments to a depth great enough to provide suitable rooting space for plant growth. Before selecting a suitable design, there are important aspects to consider (Armour and Russell, 1998):

Structures must be durable and long-lasting, therefore suitable materials must be used.

Structures should not be placed at the narrowest part of the gully as the purpose is to slow the flow of water to allow sedimentation. (Water velocities will be greatest at the narrowest points.)

It is always necessary to anchor the erosion control structures to the side of the gulley to avoid erosion around the structure.

Types of structures that can be used are listed below, followed by the basic characteristics of the structures.

Tyre structures: Suitable for gullies less than 3m deep, where the overflow does not exceed 1m. This structure includes a single wall of types (filled with rocks) placed across the gully (perpendicular to the flow of water) and secured into the gully wall (Figure 7.1).

Weir of home made gabions: These structures include home made wire baskets filled with rocks, placed across the gully, perpendicular to the flow of water (Figure 7.1).

Weir of treated poles: Suitable for gullies where the overflow height does not exceed 1.5m. The weir will be constructed of treated poles, not less than 100mm in diameter, being placed across the gully (perpendicular to the flow of water) and secured into the gully wall.

Rock packs: There are barriers of hand-packed rocks packed across the gully (perpendicular to the flow of water) and secured into the gully wall. When considering this option, it is important to note that these structures are not very effective if they are not laid properly (Figure 7.1).


Gabion weir: Suitable for gullies up to 5m deep and in large catchments. These structures include the installation of gabions across the gully, perpendicular to the flow of water. Note that these structures are expensive and should only be used if designed by a competent technician.

Tyre Structures

Home made Gabions

Rock Packs

Figure 7.1: Examples of gulley erosion control (Armour and Russell, 1998).

Rectifying the Cause of Erosion

Erosion is often caused by a lack of surface vegetation and the concentration of surface water flow. In order to rectify the cause of erosion, both of these aspects must be addressed.

The lack of surface vegetation can be addressed by planting vegetation over the area. When selecting the appropriate method for planting, it is important to ensure that the aspect of the area is considered (in terms of length of the slope as well as the gradient of the slope).

The concentration of surface water flow can be rectified by dissipating flow by means of barriers in the path of flow.


7.3.3 Power and electricity

Goals and Objectives: Maintain current electricity demand.

SIG29


H 1. Electricity: The electricity usage must be monitored and evaluated. Monitoring: The use of electricity can be monitored using the electricity bills provided by the EMM. Evaluate: In order to use the data recorded, the mine must evaluate:

Electricity use against production figures (kW used per ton produced). Historic use.

If the electricity use is recorded to be increasing, the reason must be investigated and corrective action / implementation of appropriate management measures must be undertaken immediately.

Monthly.

H 2. Electricity: Basic electricity reduction measures must be implemented within the administration offices, such as (this is not an exhaustive list): Turn off lights when no one is in the office. Ensure all monitors (computer screens) are switched off / go into sleep mode at night.

Daily.

Re-evaluation of Impacts: Electricity (H): Although management measures are proposed to minimise the use of electricity, the measures are not sufficient to reduce the electricity us of the operations. Therefore the significance ranking will not decrease.

7.3.4 Administration

Goals and Objectives: Ensure that all relevant documentation is maintained in order to facilitate environmental management and achieve legal compliance.

SIG29


1. Legislation: The mine will comply with all relevant sections of the South African environmental legislation and the associated regulations. These include, but are not limited to:

National Acts and Regulations

Gauteng Provincial ordinances.

Ekurhuleni By-laws.

LoM.

2. Mine Permits / Registrations / Licenses: Confirm the validity of all permits / registrations / licences which include, but are not limited to:

Mining Right.

Water use licence.

Water storage licence (if applicable).

Waste water discharge licence (if applicable).

Waste disposal licences. If any are due to expire during the following year, they will be renewed prior to the expiry date.

Annually.

3. Subcontractor Permits / Registrations / Licenses: Confirm validity of, and keep a copy of all valid permits / registrations / licences of all sub-contractors (where applicable) conducting activities for the mine. Such permits / registrations / licences

Annually.


SIG29


include, but are not limited to:

Blasting permit.

Certificate of vehicle fitness.

Valid driver’s licences – EC1 to EC.

Valid public drivers permit (PDP).

4. Documentation control: Generate the information required and update the documentation listed below:

Mining Work Plan.

Water Balance Diagram.

Financial Provision.

Closure Plan.

Annually.

Environmental Performance Auditing. Biennially.

Environmental Management Programme.

Social and Labour Plan.

Every 5 yrs.

Results from all monitoring campaigns. Section 7.8

5. Contracts: All new contracts between the mine and sub-contractors will stipulate the environmental commitments that must be adhered to while working on the mine. Any specific environmental measures required to mitigate any sub-contractor specific environmental impact must be included in the individual contracts.

LoM.

6. Sub-contractors: All sub-contractor who carry out work at the mine will be required to undergo induction training. Attendance must be recorded and an attendance register must be signed.

Annually

7. Complaints register: All complaints received by the mining operation must be recorded in a complaints register. The information recorded must include, but is not limited to:

Date of complaint.

Name and contact details of complainant.

Nature / Description of the complaint.

Name of the person who recorded the complaint.

A description as to how the complaint will be addressed.

A proposed target date for rectifying the complaint.

Date when corrective action was implemented (if necessary).

Confirmation / Explanation of feedback provided to the complainant.

A list of any monitoring or follow-up work that is required, including target dates.

The task must be signed off by a responsible person.

LoM.


7.3.5 Maintenance / Workshop

Vehicle and Plant Maintenance

The impacts resulting from vehicle and plant maintenance are those associated with waste generation and hydrocarbon spills (emergency incidents / accidents). The management measures for these are outlined in Section 7.4.


Goals and Objectives: Ensure the impacts associated with road maintenance do not increase in significance.

SIG29


L 1. Dust: See Section 7.7.3: Haulage. Daily.


Re-evaluation of Impacts: No re-evaluation is necessary as all impacts associated with road maintenance are of low significance.

7.3.6 Diesel

The impacts resulting from the storage and dispensing of diesel are those associated with hydrocarbon spills, either small-scale spills through day-to-day activities (dispensing of fuel) or large-scale spills (emergency incidents / accidents). Management measures for day-to-day activities are outlined in the table below, while the management measures for emergency incidents / accidents are outlined in Section 7.4. Goals and Objectives: Prevent extensive pollution as a result of a hydrocarbon spill.

SIG29


M, H & H

1. Soil, Surface & Groundwater pollution: The following management measures must be implemented to reduce the potential for fuel spillages.

LoM.

Ensure that the diesel tanks are located within a bunded area that can contain 110% of the capacity of the tank. LoM.

The structural integrity of the bund must be inspected and any cracks must be repaired immediately. Monthly.

A responsible person must be appointed to be present when fuel is being delivered. Any spillages that occur during this time must be cleaned up immediately (as described in Section 7.4.1).

During delivery.

All staff members who dispense fuel must be trained to ensure that they are know:

How to dispense fuel without spilling.

How to clean up a spill (as described in Section 7.4.1).

Annually.

Re-evaluation of Impacts: If the spills are cleaned up immediately, there will be no pollution of surface and groundwater and the pollution to soils will be limited (L).

7.3.7 Sanitation Facilities

Goals and Objectives: Ensure that the septic tank never overflows.

SIG29


L-M & M

1. Odours & Groundwater: A responsible person must be appointed to check the level of sewage in the septic tank. If the tank is more than 75% full, the responsible person must ensure that it is emptied within a week.

Monthly.


Re-evaluation of Impacts: Odours & Groundwater (L): The implementation of the management measures will ensure that the impacts associated with the sanitation system do not materialise.

7.3.8 Waste

Domestic and Industrial Waste

Goals and Objectives: Ensure that all waste products are stored correctly and disposed in a responsible manner that complies with the relevant legislation.

SIG29


L-M 1. Litter & Pollution: Waste generated on-site will be stored and disposed of as outlined in Table 7.2.

Daily.

2. General (documentation control): The mine must ensure that they receive proof of disposal and / or recycling of all waste removed from their premises (with the exception of waste being returned to the suppliers). If the sub-contractor / disposal company cannot produce proof of the disposal within one week of the waste having been removed from the premises, contracts with this company must be terminated.

LoM.

3. General (documentation control): The mine must ensure that they have copies of valid disposal permits of all sub-contractors and waste disposal companies. If a sub-contractors’ disposal permit / registration / licence has expired, the mine must request a copy of the new permit. If the sub-contractor cannot produce a valid permit / registration / licence within one month of requesting a copy, contracts with this company must be terminated.

LoM.

4. Reuse / Recycle: Ensure that any waste that can be re-used or recycled is. LoM.

Re-evaluation of Impacts: Litter & Pollution: The implementation of the management measures / handling instructions described in Table 7.2 will reduce the potential for impacts associated with waste.

Settlement Dams

No management measures are proposed for the following reasons:

The sediments are non-toxic.

No water is discharged from the settlement dams as it is used as process water (Section 4.3.8).

The sediments are periodically removed and processed as agricultural lime by a subcontractor (Section 4.3.8).

As of the end of 2009 the settlement dams will be decommissioned.


Table 7.2: Separation of pre-classified waste into General and Hazardous waste categories as defined by NEM: WA.

WASTE TYPE DEFINITION EXAMPLES (GREEN = RECYCLABLE)

1. GENERAL WASTE

Definition: General waste means waste that does not pose an immediate hazard or threat to health or to the environment.

Domestic waste Means waste, excluding hazardous waste that emanates from premises that are used wholly or mainly for residential, educational, health care, sport or recreational purposes.

Foodstuffs Garden waste Unwanted materials (clothing) Packaging materials such as glass, paper, cardboard, plastics and ash.

Building waste (and demolition waste)

Means waste, excluding hazardous waste, produced during the construction, alteration, repair or demolition of any structure.

Rubble Earth Rock Wood

Business waste (Commercial, Industrial, Office)

Means waste that emanates from premises that are used wholly or mainly for commercial, retail, wholesale, entertainment or government administration purposes.

Paper Plastic Glass Metals (tin / scrap metal) Wood Food Textiles

Inert waste Means waste that does not: - undergo any significant physical, chemical or biological transformation after disposal; - burn, react physically or chemically, biodegradable or otherwise adversely affect any other matter or environment with which it may come into contact with; and - impact negatively on the environment, because of its pollutant content and because the toxicity of its leachate is insignificant

Sand Dust

2. HAZARDOUS WASTE

Definition: Hazardous waste means any waste that contains organic or inorganic element or compounds that may, owing to the inherent physical, chemical or toxicological characteristics of that waste have a detrimental impact on health and the environment. Hazardous waste that does not need to go through the classification process is termed pre-classified waste.

Tyres Waste tyres have been identified as a problematic waste stream as they are not compactable or degradable and prove problematic at landfills.

All waste tyres33

Health care risk waste (HCRW) Health care waste is a by-product of healthcare generated at healthcare facilities including occupational medical centres.

Sharps Blood / body tissues

33

Waste tyres - Regulations for Waste Tyres (GN R 520 of 2009) have been promulgated in terms of the Environmental Conservation Act, prior to the NEM:WA coming into force. These must be regulated according to an Industry Waste Management Plan (IWMP) for the tyre industry which shall be regulated according to the National Waste Management Strategy Action Plan.


Swabs Chemicals Pharmaceuticals Medical devices

Pesticide waste Highly toxic chemicals and containers used to store them which may bio-accumulate in the food chain and have major health consequences.

Herbicides Insecticides Fungicides Seed treatments

eWaste Refers to Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) which may be highly hazardous due to heavy metals content.

Lighting (mercury content) Information Communication Technology (ICT) equipment Consumer electronics Small and large household appliances

Batteries Some are rechargeable batteries, the majority alkaline, and silver oxide batteries which are not rechargeable. Various heavy metals including mercury and cadmium are present in these batteries resulting in a hazardous classification.

All batteries

Compact Florescent Lamps (CFLs) Lighting equipment is considered a sub type of Waste and WEEE. However CFLs are regarded as can be regarded separately due to the growing trend in energy efficiency and are regarded as hazardous waste due to their mercury content.

Energy saving light bulbs Florescent tubes.

Oil lubricating oil is highly threatening to the environment and human health, where the breakdown of additives and base oil releases and mixes a variety of chemicals in the used oil, the most harmful of which are poly-aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) which potentially have carcinogenic effects. Used oil poses a serious threat to drinking water supplies and aquatic life.

Used oil

Other hazardous substances Any substance classified as hazardous according to SABS Code 0228: The Identification and Classification of Dangerous Substances and goods. Hazardous substances are divided into nine classes: Class 1: Explosives Class 2: Gases Class 3: Flammable Liquids Class 4: Flammable Solids Class 5: Oxidising Substances and organic peroxides Class 6: Toxic and infectious substances Class 7: Radioactive substances Class 8: Corrosives Class 9: Other miscellaneous substances

All substances listed as hazardous according to the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS).

Priority Waste Priority wastes must be declared by the Minister in terms of section 14 of Existing priority waste:


the NEM: WA and will include specific waste management measures that must be undertaken.

-Asbestos34

Potential priority waste: -Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) -Mercury waste

Other waste Waste that is not dealt with in terms of NEM:WA and regulated by other (non-environmental) legislation: -Hazardous Substances Act, 1973 -National Nuclear Regulator Act, 1999 -Nuclear Energy Act, 1999 -Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act, 2002 -Explosives Act, 2003 -Animal Health Act, 2002

Radioactive waste Residue deposits & stockpiles Explosives Animal carcasses

7.4 EMERGENCY INCIDENTS AND / OR ACCIDENTS Emergency incidents / accidents can be defined as incidents / accidents having the following criteria:

The likelihood of these incidents / accidents occurring is considered to be very low or may never take place during the life of the mine.

The environmental impacts associated with these incidents / accidents may be significant.

It is essential that the mine personnel know how to respond in the event of an environmental emergency situation in order to avoid significant environmental degradation / impacts or injury to human health.

Ideally such incidents should not occur if mining personnel implement all necessary management measures. However, despite the best intentions and the best environmental management practices, it is impossible to ensure that no incidents / accidents ever occur on a mining site. Therefore, it is vital to ensure that all personnel are aware of the management measures to be undertaken in the event of an accident.

7.4.1 Hydrocarbon spills

Goals and Objectives: Prevent extensive pollution as a result of a hydrocarbon spill.

SIG29


M, H & H

1. Soil, Surface & Groundwater pollution: The measures to clean up large- (covers an area larger than 1m2) and small-scale

(covers an area less than 1m2) spills is similar. The clean-up measures are described below with differences highlighted where

necessary.

LoM.

Contain the spill by constructing earth walls from loose soils on-site.

Cover the contained spill with soil or an environmentally acceptable absorbent (preferable as the less material is required to absorb the spill and the bioremediation action starts taking place immediately.)

In the event of a spill.

34

Asbestos waste – Regulations for the prohibition of asbestos (GN R 520 of 2009) have been promulgated in terms of the Environmental Conservation Act, prior to the NEM:WA coming into force. These regulations effectively declare asbestos as a priority waste. Due to the transitional arrangement in section 80(2) of the NEM:WA, these regulations remain affective.


SIG29


If the contaminated material is to be bioremediated, then polluted soil and covering material must be:

Small spills: taken to the predetermined bioremediation site and treated according to the bioremediation product instructions.

Large spills: removed and either stored in drums (that do not leak) for transportation to a bioremediation site.

If the contaminated soils are to be disposed as hazardous waste, then polluted soil and covering material must be:

Small spills: collected in the waste containers for oil contaminated waste (

Table 7.2).

Large spills: collected in drums (that do not leak).

The drums containing the contaminated material must be covered with a lid to prevent the contents of the drum from being spilled if knocked over and prevent the containers being filled with rain water.

The drums must then be disposed of through a hazardous waste disposal company. The mine must keep a record of the collection and ask the disposal company to provide them with proof of disposal at a suitably licensed facility. The co-ordination of the collection for disposal must take place within three days.

Re-evaluation of Impacts: If the spills are cleaned up immediately, there will be no pollution of surface and groundwater and the pollution to soils will be limited.

7.4.2 Fire

Goals and Objectives: Prevent the spread of fires.

SIG29


H (+) 1. Veld fires: The potential for the spread of fires will be reduced by:

Maintain the road as a fire break around the perimeter of the mining area.

Cutting vegetation from around the buildings.

Removing vegetation from the explosive magazine area.

All fires must be reported to the emergency services. 2. Building fires:

Fire extinguishers to be available in all buildings.

Fire extinguishers to be checked by a qualified person.

If the fire cannot be controlled by the person who discovers the fire, it must be reported to the emergency services. 3. Training:

All employees will undergo fire drill training.

Quarterly. Quarterly. Quarterly. Immediately. LoM. Annually. Immediately. Annually.


7.5 SOCIO-ECONOMIC ASPECTS Goals and objective: To implement the aspects of the approved Social and Labour Plan.

SIG29


H (+) 1. Implement the following aspects of the SLP:

Employment Equity.

Skills Development Plan.

Training.

Portable Skills Training.

Career Progression Plan.

Mentorship Plan.

Procurement.

Preference / targeting.

Local Economic Development (LED). Infrastructure and poverty eradication projects. Infrastructure Development. Community Development. 2. Report on the compliance to the approved SLP:

LoM. Annually

7.6 DECOMMISSIONING AND CLOSURE The Financial Provision Regulations (GN R1147


th November 2015. These regulations require a mining house to complete and update

annually three reports pertaining to rehabilitation, decommissioning, closure and the financial provision required for these activities, namely;



Environmental Risk Assessment Report (Appendix 5 of GN R1147).

In order to avoid contradictory information in the EMPr and the Plans listed above (which are updated annually), details pertaining to concurrent rehabilitation, decommissioning and closure (i.e. specific activities, time frames, etc.) have not been included in the EMPr (which is not updated annually). Instead lists of potential activities and / or objectives are included in the sections below.

7.6.1 Concurrent Rehabilitation

Concurrent rehabilitation activities that may be undertaken during the life of the mine include:

Alien vegetation removal in accordance with the Annual Rehabilitation Plan


Vegetation of overburden dumps as and when they are created and in accordance with the Annual Rehabilitation Plan

The detailed annual plans for implementation and record keeping will be documented through the Annual Rehabilitation Plan in terms of GN R1147.

35



7.6.2 Decommissioning and Closure

Based on the latest LTPr, there are adequate reserves for a life of mine exceeding 35.5 years. Therefore, closure of the mine is not imminent and detailed consideration has not been given to Closure, other than what is included in the Long-term Plan and in the Financial Provision reports. There are no specific activities planned for the quarry pit after closure and therefore Atoll must focus on making the quarry safe at the end of life of mine. In order to achieve this, the mine has the following Closure Objectives:

Make the quarry pit safe o Blast and slope the top benches o Enclose the pit with palisade fencing


Identify and address areas of potential contamination

Profile and revegetate disturbed areas (outside of the pit)

7.7 ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENT (EVALUATION)

7.7.1 Groundwater

Goals and Objectives: Reduce the potential for ingress.

SIG29


M 1. Operational ingress: Manage the stormwater on-site as per the Stormwater Management Plan31

(Section 4.3.2 and Section 12.6).

LoM.

M 2. Operational ingress: A clay lined sump (using clay-rich material from the overburden) will be located in the lowest point in the pit floor. The floor of the pit will be sloped to ensure that any rainfall collected in the pit flows towards this sump. If any water collects in this sump, it will be pumped out of the pit and used as process water.

LoM.

H 3. Flooding: If current dewatering of the ERMB stops, the mine would flood within 12 years. As the dewatering of the pit would not be an economically viable option to allowing mining of dolomite and dolerite to continue, there is no way in which this impact can be mitigated. However, if decanting of the ERMB stops, the mine will not be the only operation that is impacted (assuming other underground gold mines are still in operation). Therefore, this impact is not restricted to the mining operation. If the threat of flooding of the pit becomes a reality, the mine will approach the Government Task Team (GTT) that has been formed by the Directors-General of DMR, DEA and DWA to facilitate co-operative decision making within Government with regards to water management for the Witwatersrand area. Guidance as to how to address this impact will then be taken from the GTT or appropriate Technical Working Group (TWG).

If dewatering of ERMB stops.

H 4. Post closure ingress: The operational phase Stormwater Management Plan must be reviewed when planning rehabilitation activities (minimum of 5 years prior to closure), to ensure that stormwater will still be managed during rehabilitation activities and post closure. If it is necessary, the Stormwater Management Plan must be amended to fit with the rehabilitation plan. The closure Stormwater Management Plan must also include the long-term management of stormwater after mine closure.

5 years prior to closure.


Re-evaluation of Impacts: Operational ingress (L): The implementation the management measures will reduce the Probability of the impact occurring and reduce the Consequence as the volume of ingress will reduce. Flooding: As no economically feasible management measures are possible, the significance of the impact remains. Post closure ingress: As indicated above, the predicted volume of post closure ingress can only be determined once the sump has been designed. Therefore, no re-evaluation is possible at this stage.

7.7.2 Fauna and Flora

Goals and Objectives: Reduce the impacts on fauna and flora.

SIG29


L 1. Dust & Noise: See management measures outlined in Section 7.7.3 and 7.7.4.

2. General: Given that there are very few vegetated areas within the mining site, there is very little alien vegetation. The potential for establishment of alien vegetation will increase with the preparation of the overburden berms for vegetation. Once this has been undertaken, the need for an alien vegetation control programme (AVCP) will be determined. If alien vegetation has established on the berms, an AVCP will be developed as outlined below. This plan will then be implemented and updated annually.

Re-evaluation of Impacts: The impacts associated with fauna and flora is low and are therefore not re-evaluated.


Alien Vegetation Removal Programme

When the need arises, the mine will compile an AVCP which must include the steps described in details below. Information gathering, Planning, Management, Implementation, and Record keeping. It is vitally important that each step of the processes is undertaken in sequence as the success of the control programme depends on all five stages being implemented correctly. An outline of the activities to be undertaken in each step is given below and is taken directly from Kellner et al. (2001).

Step 1: Information Gathering The purpose of step 1 is to produce a map showing the high, medium and low priority control areas based on the surveyed alien plant infestations. It is advisable to use aerial photos or 1:10 000 maps. Divide alien plant infestations into control areas: Use natural or man-made boundaries e.g. rivers, roads and fences. Number these control areas for record purposes. Conduct a detailed alien plant survey in each control area, recording the following: All the alien plant species present and their growth habit (e.g. shrubs, trees, saplings, coppice and seedlings), Estimate the percentage coverage as a measure of density (e.g. 75% – 100% is very dense, 50% – 75% is dense, 25% – 50% is medium density, 5% – 25% is sparse, and 0% – 5% describes a scattered infestation). The terrain (e.g. access roads, steep slopes that will slow down the control operations). Sites of future wood lots for local community needs. Rank areas into high, medium or low priority for control and rehabilitation, according to importance criteria such as threat to biodiversity, water yield or carrying capacity. Conduct soil analysis to determine the suitability of species for re-seeding. Clay content will also determine the rate of soil applied herbicides. Identify suitable grass species for establishment and availability, according to land use aims.

Step 2: Planning The purpose of step 2 is to draw up integrated control strategies (a collection of appropriate control methods) for alien plant infestations in each control area identified in step 1. The control strategies (methods) will be determined by a number of factors such as the species to be cleared, the terrain of the site being cleared, etc. List the required resources for each high priority control area (e.g. labour, herbicides, and equipment) and the current management practices on the property (e.g. burning, grazing, and utilisation of trees for firewood). Evaluate and select appropriate control methods, considering mechanical, chemical (using registered herbicides) and / or biological control (see Appendix 1 for list of recognised clearing methods). Also evaluate and select the rehabilitation methods to be used after alien vegetation removal. Calculate the control costs for the high priority control areas, based on the methods selected above. Secure a long-term commitment to rehabilitation.

Step 3: Management The purpose of step 3 is to compile i) an alien vegetation management plan, useful for a 3 – 5 year period, and ii) an Annual Plan of Operations (APO) for the current year’s work. Draw up an APO for high priority control areas (to be updated annually), including a budget of the required resources (labour, herbicides and equipment) for control operations planned during a single year. This APO determines the scale of work to be undertaken in a year and it is very important to ensure that the APO does not include the control of too large an area. A guideline for the budget distribution after year #1 is: 75% for follow-up control work and rehabilitation of previously cleared areas, 20% for initial control of new area, and 5% for an emergency “fire fund” (see below). Factors to consider when compiling the APO are:


Establish an emergency “fire fund” or “flood fund” to cope with catastrophic occurrences (e.g. mass seeding regeneration of wattle after fire, loss of planted grass seed during heavy rains). It is advisable to allocate resources (e.g. labour, herbicides, equipment, and transport) to high priority control areas. Draw up timetables for control operations, including a contingency / “catch-up” time when operations fall behind (e.g. too wet, labour strikes etc). NB: The plan must be flexible and adjusted as progress is made.

Step 4: Implementation The purpose of step 4 is to implement the APO compiled in step 3. In order to ensure that implementation is undertaken successfully, it is vital that all staff involved in the alien vegetation removal and rehabilitation are adequately trained. In order to do this, a demonstration site should be established. This site must be easily accessible and located in a high profile area that is representative of other high priority control areas (this will maximise impact of the training and act as a “model” site to advertise the work). The training undertaken must include the correct control methods as well as the correct grass planting (rehabilitation) methods. The implementation phase must continue until the site is cleared of alien invasive vegetation. As a minimum, this is achieved when less than 5% of the total surface of the site (area initially identified for clearing) is covered by alien vegetation or is covered by no vegetation (bare). When determining the success of the AVCP, it is important to consider the following: Exposed areas / Bare soils have the potential to allow colonisation of alien vegetation. This is the reason that the 5% “allowed for alien vegetation” includes bare / un-vegetated areas. A 5% coverage of alien vegetation scattered over a large area (such as a mining site) is allowed as this density of alien vegetation is low enough to allow indigenous vegetation to out-compete alien vegetation. It is important that the 5% coverage of alien vegetation allowed to remain on-site is not concentrated in one area, as this will be a nucleolus for the spread of alien vegetation.

Step 5: Record Keeping The purpose of step 5 is to maintain a record of the control programme to determine if the methods being applied are successful or if adaptations need to be made for the following year’s APO. Keep simple records of daily operations (e.g. record the labour days, herbicide volumes and equipment required for each operation), as this establishes standards / norms that can be applied for the control work. Monitor progress with the control work (after year #1), recording information on maps (indicating area covered by re-growth and areas cleared). Information recorded to monitor control progress must also include a record of the labour days, herbicide volumes and equipment used for control operations as this information can advise future control. Another useful tool for record keeping is fixed-point photography, recording before control / clearing and after control / clearing photographs. The information from these records must be fed back into the budget to update and amend the APO for the following year (i.e. the plan for follow-up control operations for re-growth).


7.7.3 Air Quality

The management measures outlined in this section include those outlined in the Air Quality Impact Assessment, attached in Section 12.9. Goals and Objectives:

Materials handling: Reduce dust emissions during materials handling.

Haulage: Reduce dust emissions during hauling by ensuring a control efficiency of 85% to 90% for dust suppression on roads.

SIG29


L-M 1. Materials handling: When visible clouds of dust (generated during materials handling activities) are being transported across the mine boundary (wind speeds >4m/s), the material must be watered before handled. Stripping overburden. Stockpiling overburden. Stockpiling ROM. Loading ROM to crushers.

LoM when required.

M 2. Haulage: All haul roads (only those being used at the time) will be watered with a water cart daily, with the exception of days when the roads are already wet as a result of rain. It is estimated that an average wetting ratio of 0.1212ℓ/hour must be achieved (approximately 30 000ℓ/day). However, this will fluctuate seasonally and will also depend on the length of the roads being watered. If the water cart is not functioning (being serviced) or if the climatic conditions dry the roads before the water cart returns to that area, a speed limits of 30km/h will be enforced on all unpaved roads.

Daily.

Re-evaluation of Impacts: Material handling and Haulage (L): If the management measures proposed are implemented to achieve the goals, the significance ranking of the impacts will be reduced.

7.7.4 Noise

The results from the noise impact study show that noise levels from the mining operation are expected to be well below the ambient level for Urban Residential districts recommended in SANS 10103. At Kingsway, nearest to the pit, night-time noise levels produced under worst-case weather conditions for the worst-case mining configuration (excavating at surface level), will be about 4 dB below ambient level. At Rynsoord, the corresponding level will be about 10 dB below the acceptable night-time ambient level. As the noise levels from the mining operation are negligible, no mitigation is required. (Refer to Section 12.10 for more detail.) There is the potential that noise from blasting may be a concern. Therefore, to ensure that noise levels at the mine do not escalate and the noise generated from drilling and blasting is controlled, management measures have been proposed in Section 7.2.4, which can also be applied during decommissioning and closure. All management measures outlined in this section have been taken from the Noise Impact Assessment (attached in Section 12.10), input provided by the blasting contractors and a review of monitoring results (Section 12.11). Noise from the mine operation has also been raised as a concern by I&AP. Management measures to reduce the operational noise have been outlined for each activity in Section 7.2. Those management measures that are applicable to more than one activity are listed in the table below.


Goals and Objectives: Minimise the impact on neighbouring residents.

SIG29


M 1. Operating hours / Operational noise:

Mine: 06:00 – 22:00, Monday to Saturday.

Plant: 06:00 – 06:00, Monday to Saturday.

Maintenance on Sundays.

LoM.

Re-evaluation of Impacts: As the mine operation runs 24 hours a day for 6 days a week, the implementation of these operating hours will not reduce the significance of the impact.

7.7.5 Blasting

Management measures associated with blasting have been outlined under the activity specific impacts in Section 7.2.4. All management measures outlined in this section has been taken input provided by the blasting contractors (Section 12.12). Therefore, drilling and blasting management measure are not presented again in this section of the report.


7.8 MONITORING AND EMP PERFORMANCE ASSESSMENT Based on the Environmental Impact Assessment (Section 12.3), concerns raised by the public (Section 3.3) and the recommendations made in the specialist assessments (see Sections 12.9, 12.10, 12.11, 12.12,) the following monitoring networks are proposed and described below: Air quality monitoring, specifically dust fallout / dust deposition. Noise monitoring. Blasting vibrations and blasting noise monitoring. Stormwater quality monitoring.

7.8.1 Air Quality Monitoring

Monitoring Network

Fugitive dust is the main pollutant of concern emanating from the mining operations. Therefore, the objective of the monitoring network proposed for this operation is to monitor dust fallout rates in the vicinity of the operation, both on-site and off-site. To enhance the mining monitoring network (illustrated in Figure 7.2), it is recommended that the dust fallout network established for the mine and Pamodzi be continued to facilitate compliance with the National Environmental Management: Air Quality Act, Act No. 39 of 2004 (NEM:AQA). The mines monitoring network will provide an indication of any increase in fugitive dustfall rates since the granting of the mining operations, while the Pamodzi network will provide an indication of trends in dustfall rates. (The Pamodzi network will not provide baseline data for comparison as the sampling period undertaken for this network were not in compliance with the SANS.) In addition to the comparison with pre-mining trends, the proposed dust fallout network can serve to meet various objectives, such as:

Compliance monitoring;

Validate dispersion model 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 measures. It is recommended that monthly dustfall monitoring is undertaken using five single dust fallout buckets and five directional dust fallout buckets. The locations of the proposed monitors are illustrated in Figure 7.2. Dustfall monitors are exposed for a period of 30 days (±3 days), with results being obtained monthly.


Figure 7.2: Location of the dustfall monitoring stations.

Performance Indicators

In order to utilise the monitoring results to determine if the mine is operating within the guidelines or targets set by the mine, it is necessary to compare the results to selected performance indicators. Performance indicators are often guided by legal requirements and usually selected to reflect both the source of the emission (source based indicators) and the impact on the receiving environment (receptor based indicators). The performance indicators have been selected based on the outcomes of the emissions calculations undertaken as part of the Air Quality Impact Assessment (Section 12.9).

Legal Requirements Dustfall rates proposed in the SANS 1929 are provided in Table 7.3, with the proposed future standards being provided in Table 7.4.

Table 7.3: Bands of dustfall rates proposed in SANS 1929.

BAND

NO. BAND

DESCRIPTION DUSTFALL RATE (MG/M

2/DAY)

36

COMMENT

1 RESIDENTIAL <600mg/m2/day Permissible for residential and light commercial

2 INDUSTRIAL 600 - 1 200 mg/m2/day

Permissible for heavy commercial and industrial

3 ACTION 1 200 - 2 400 mg/m2/day

Requires investigation and remediation if two sequential months lie in this band, or more than three occur in a year.

4 ALERT >2 400 mg/m2/day

Immediate action and remediation required following the first exceedance. Incident report to be submitted to relevant authority.

36

Dustfall rates are recorded for 30 days (±3 days) and averaged over the period.

Single bucket fallout monitors - proposed

Wind directionsl bucket - proposed

Mining Right Application area

Brakpan North

Rynsoord

Kingsway

Klein Blesbokspruit

Current pit

Wind directionsl bucket - existing

Single bucket fallout monitors - existing


Table 7.4: Target, action and alert thresholds for ambient dustfall proposed in SANS 1929.

LEVEL DUSTFALL RATE (MG/M

2/DAY)

36

AVERAGING

PERIOD PERMITTED FREQUENCY OF EXCEEDANCE

TARGET 300 mg/m2/day Annual

ACTION RESIDENTIAL

600 mg/m2/day 30 days

Three within any year, no two sequential months.

ACTION INDUSTRIAL

1 200 mg/m2/day 30 days Three within any year, not sequential months.

ALERT THRESHOLD

2 400 mg/m2/day 30 days

None. First exceedance requires remediation and compulsory report to authorities.

Source Based Indicators

Unpaved haul roads: On-site dustfall rates of stations next to the roads <1,200 mg/m2/day.

Overburden dumps: On-site dustfall rates immediately downwind <1,200 mg/m2/day.

Crushing Operation: The absence of a visible dust plume from the crusher and screening operations is the best indicator of effective control equipment in place. In addition the on-site dustfall in the immediate vicinity of various sources within the plant <1,200 mg/m

2/day.

Receptor Based Indicators

Kingsway: Off-site dustfall <600mg/m2/day.

Rynsoord: Off-site dustfall <600mg/m2/day.

Brakpan North: Off-site dustfall <600mg/m2/day.

It must be noted that the mine is not the only source of fugitive dust in the vicinity of these monitoring stations. Fortunately, the colour of the dust from the various sources differs due to the nature of the source. For example, dust generated from off-site unpaved roads (such as those in Kingsway) or open / exposed surfaces will result in brown dust, while the dust from the tailings facilities will be whitish-yellow in colour. Dust from the mining operations will be grey, due to the nature of the material being mined and processed. Therefore, if dustfall rates exceed the performance indicators, the dust collected in the buckets must be visually inspected to determine its source, based on the colour of the dust collected.

Evaluation of Monitoring Results

In order for monitoring data to be useful, the results must be evaluated as they are received. This can be achieved by evaluating the results on a monthly basis as they are received. It is advisable to store all air quality results in a spreadsheet and project the results graphically in order to determine exceedances of the applicable standards (Table 7.3) and / or performance indicators (listed above) which must be presented in the graph, as well as previously monitored results. If exceedances of the standards, performance indicators or the previous monitored results are recorded, the following steps must be taken and documented:

a) Determine the source of the pollution, considered in conjunction with the prevailing winds at the time. If the prevailing winds were not from the mining site towards the monitoring station, it is likely that the elevated levels are from an alternative source. However, if the prevailing winds were blowing from the mining site towards the monitoring station, it is likely that the elevated levels are as a result of mining related activities.

b) If so, determine if this is as a result of a once off incident or a routine event. c) Determine how the incident can be prevented, or if this is not possible, managed in future.

Appropriate mitigation measures must be implemented (the implementation of appropriate measures will be dependant on the practicality and cost of the proposed measures).

d) The success of mitigation measures must be confirmed through the continued routine monthly sampling.

e) If it is observed that pollution continues after two months of monitoring, alternative preventative / mitigation measures must be implemented. The success of these new measures must once again be confirmed through the routine monthly monitoring.


7.8.2 Noise

Monitoring Network

7.8.2.1.1 Noise from Day-to-Day Mining Activities The results from the noise impact study (Section 12.10) show that noise levels from the Zimbiwa Resource mining operation are expected to be well below the ambient level for Urban Residential districts recommended in SANS 10103. At Kingsway, nearest to the pit, night-time noise levels produced under worst-case weather conditions for the worst-case mining configuration (excavating at surface level), will be about 4 dB below ambient level. At Rynsoord, the corresponding level will be about 10 dB below the acceptable night-time ambient level. Although not confirmed through specialist input, I&AP have indicated that noise from the mine operation is a concern. Therefore, it is necessary to determine this through monitoring. It is recommended that boundary levels be determined on an annual basis, at the following locations:

On the western boundary closest to Rynsoord,

On the north-eastern boundary closest to Kingsway,

On the southern boundary closest to Brakpan North,

On the eastern boundary of Rynsoord or at the house of a complainant,

On the western boundary of Kingsway or at the house of a complainant. If complaints regarding noise are received from I&AP, off-site noise monitoring can be undertaken in the vicinity of the complaint.

7.8.2.1.2 Noise from Blasting Noise generated by blasting was identified as a potential concern in the noise impact study (Section 12.10). The proposed monitoring network to determine the significance of this impact is outlined in Section 7.8.3.

Performance Indicators

Noise is considered to be disturbing or unacceptable if either or a combination of the following conditions occurs:

If the ambient noise level (regardless of the origin or number of sources) significantly exceeds the typical or acceptable rating for the type of district under consideration (such as those provided in Table 7.5).

If a new development or any specific activity creates noise that raises the ambient level by more than a certain increment above the initial level, even if the total level is still below the so-called acceptable level (such as those provided in Table 7.5).

Therefore, the typical rating levels provided in SANS 10103

37 (Table 7.5) have been used as the

performance indicators for noise monitoring. The district around the mining property is considered to be an Urban Residential District, highlighted in light-grey in the table.

Table 7.5: Typical outdoor ambient noise levels in various districts. Average level over various periods during a 24-hour day. Measured in dB (SANS 10103)

TYPE OF DISTRICT DAY-NIGHT

38

(24 HOUR PERIOD) DAY-TIME

(06:00 – 22:00) NIGHT-TIME

(22:00 – 06:00)

(a) Rural 45 45 35

(b) Suburban – With little road traffic 50 50 40

(c) Urban 55 55 45

(d) Urban – With some workshops, business premises and main roads

60 60 50

(e) Central business districts 65 65 55

(f) Industrial districts 70 70 60

37

Previously SABS 10103. 38 The day-night level represents a 24-hour average of the ambient noise level, with a weighting of +10 dB applied to night-time levels.


Evaluation of Monitoring Results

In order for monitoring data to be useful, the results must be evaluated as they are received, comparing them with the previous results. It is advisable to store all noise monitoring results in a spreadsheet and project the results graphically in order to determine exceedances of the applicable standards (Table 7.5) which must be presented in the graph, as well as previously monitored results. If exceedances of the standards / performance indicators or the previous monitored results are recorded, the following steps must be taken and documented:

a) Determine if the reason for the increase is as a result of mining related activities, or changes to these activities. This must be considered in conjunction with the meteorological conditions during monitoring.

b) If so, determine if this is as a result of a once off incident or a routine event due to changes in mining related activities.

c) Determine how the incident can be prevented, or if this is not possible, managed in future. Appropriate mitigation measures must be implemented (the implementation of appropriate measures will be dependant on the practicality and cost of the proposed measures).

d) The success of mitigation measures must be confirmed through the follow-up monitoring for two months.

e) If it is observed that the exceedances continue after two months of monitoring, alternative preventative / mitigation measures must be implemented. The success of these new measures must once again be confirmed through follow-up monitoring for two months.

7.8.3 Blasting

The noise and vibration impacts associated with blasting have been identified as a concern in the noise impact study (Section 12.10) and by I&AP. Although the blasting contractors have indicated management measures that will be employed to reduce this impact to one of LOW significance, it will be necessary to monitor the off-site impacts to determine if this is the case.

Monitoring Network (Noise and Vibration)

Monitoring and inspections will be undertaken by an independent sub-contractor.

7.8.3.1.1 Structural Stability Monitoring Prior to any mining taking place, a baseline inspection of ten houses in Kingsway and nine houses in Rynsoord was undertaken (Section 12.10). The residents association in each area submitted a list of houses that they wished to have inspected. The inspection was carried out as a once off inspection to document the condition of the houses and to establish the base line condition as at August 2007. A five-level framework, based on the Code of Practice - Foundations and Super-structures for Buildings of Masonry Construction (SAICE/IStructE, 1995) was used for the description and evaluation of wall and floor cracks. A summary of the survey is presented below with the report included in Section 12.10 and the detailed survey available from the mine:

Walls: The damage to walls varied from house to house with both internal and external walls showing various levels of cracking which occurred mainly around door and window openings, in the corners of rooms and other wall intersections, around roof beams (mainly in Kingsway) and at building joins where extensions or alterations had been carried out or which were in the process of being carried out.

Roofing: The roofs of the houses in Rynsoord were tiled while the roofs of the houses in Kingsway were constructed of corrugated iron or IBR sheets. No significant damage was noted in either suburb.

Flooring and foundations: The floors of the houses in Rynsoord were carpeted, tiled or laminated. Some low cracking was noted in some of the tiled floors. The floors of the houses in Kingsway were finished off using screeded cement, which was often covered with carpets or linoleum. These floors were generally in good condition. (Note, no information on foundations, such as width, depth, strength of concrete used etc. was available.)

Windows: Windowpanes were inspected for damage. Any damage was noted and the nature of the damage defined. The windows were in good condition.


7.8.3.1.2 Noise (Airblast) and Vibration Monitoring Since the initiation of blasting on the 3

rd August 2007 (after the granting of the Mining Right), blast

monitoring has been undertaken during every blast monitoring:

Ground vibrations measured in three directions.

Air blast / Pressure pulse (recorded in dB). Monitoring is undertaken at three fixed monitoring stations, viz.:

The house of Mr. A Limalia: 2 Rolina Street, Rynsoord.

The house of Mr. J. Jamba: 1273, Kingsway.

The sewage pump station in Brakpan North. Between the period 3

rd August 2007 and 25

th March 2008 an independent contractor (Erik Kohler) was

responsible for the monitoring. During this period he trained a number of mining employees to place the seismographs for each blast, in order to manage the monitoring internally.

Performance Indicators and Evaluation of Monitoring Results

After every blast, the results will be plotted against industry standards and norms. As South Africa does not have industry standards and norms, the USBM standards will be used (peak blast pressure limits of 55Pa and 129dB). In the Kingsway community, reference will also be made to the DIN standards, as these are more stringent and more suitable for areas with informal housing. If exceedances of the standards / performance indicators are recorded, the following steps must be taken and documented:

a) Determine the reason for the unacceptable levels caused by the blast. Ensure that this does not happen in subsequent blasts.

b) Inspect the houses inspected prior to blasting. If there is structural damage to these houses, an inventory must be made of all houses affected by the blast. Proposed corrective action must be discussed with those impacted.

7.8.4 Surface Water Quality Monitoring

Monitoring Network

Surface water quality monitoring will be undertaken at the points indicated in Figure 7.3.

7.8.4.1.1 Monitoring Frequency: Surface water quality monitoring will be undertaken monthly until a baseline of data is established (minimum of one year). Subsequent to the establishment of a baseline data set, the monitoring frequency will be reduced as follows:

Monthly during the rainy season, i.e. October to March.

Once during the dry season (if it rains), i.e. if any storm events occur during the dry season.

7.8.4.1.2 Monitoring Parameters:

Aluminium Ammonia Calcium Chloride

Conductivity Fluoride Iron Magnesium

Nitrate pH Phosphate Sodium

Sulphate Suspended solids

These parameters have been selected as they are the water quality parameters monitored for in the Blesbokspruit catchment. If there are changes to the monitoring results in the Blesbokspruit downstream of the mine, the results will help evaluate if the mine is responsible. It must be noted that dissolved oxygen is also measured for the Blesbokspruit catchment. However, it is not recommended for monitoring by the mine as this is a highly specialized test and a dolomite mine will not contribute to problems resulting from this parameter.


Figure 7.3: Surface water quality monitoring points.

Performance Indicators and Evaluation of Monitoring Results

In order for monitoring data to be useful, the results must be evaluated as they are received. This can be achieved by evaluating the results as they are received. It is advisable to store all results in a spreadsheet and project the results graphically in order to determine exceedances of the DWA standards which must be presented in the graph, as well as previously monitored results. If exceedances of the standards or the previous monitored results are recorded, the following steps must be taken and documented:

a) Determine the source of the pollution and if it is as a result of mining related activities. b) If so, determine if this is as a result of a once off incident or a routine event. c) Determine how the incident can be prevented, or if this is not possible, managed in future.

Appropriate mitigation measures must be implemented (the implementation of appropriate measures will be dependant on the practicality and cost of the proposed measures).

d) The success of mitigation measures must be confirmed through the follow-up monitoring after the next storm event.

e) If it is observed that pollution continues after two subsequent samples have been analysed (after two storm events) alternative preventative / mitigation measures must be implemented. The success of these new measures must once again be confirmed through the sampling.

12

3

4

5

6

7

N

Plant run-off dam

Settlement dam 1

Settlement dam 2

Klein Blesbokspruit inflow point

Klein Blesbokspruit outflow point

Storm water trench inflow point

Storm water trench outflow point

1

2

3

4

5

6

7


7.8.5 Operational Monitoring Activities

Operational Monitoring Activities are activities that must be undertaken on a regular basis to ensure the effective environmental management of the operation. These activities have already been outlined in Sections 7.2 to 7.7 but are repeated here as a summary to allow the mine an opportunity to assign a responsible person and to facilitate environmental management.

RESPONSIBLE

PERSON MANAGEMENT ACTIVITY

Daily

All haul roads being used must be watered with a water cart, with the exception of days when the roads are already wet as a result of rain.

Water sprays at all transfer points must create a fine mist (forming a water blanket) to trap the dust at the transfer points.

The effectiveness of these sprays must be checked as part of routine maintenance. If the sprays are not effective (clogged) they must be cleaned / replaced within a day.

When possible, ensure that only “dirty water” (collected stormwater) is used for process water.

Implement basic electricity reduction measures within the administration offices.

Waste generated on-site will be stored and disposed of as outlined in

Table 7.2.

Weekly

Remove the dust / fine sediments that collect on the paved area between the entrance gate and Main Reef Road (the public road).

During the rainy season (Oct - Mar), the stormwater drains must be inspected to ensure that there are no blockages and no build up of sediments to disrupt the flow of water. If blockages are identified, these must be removed immediately.

Conduct noise (airblast) and vibration monitoring during every blast.

Monthly

The volume of water being used in the process must be monitored and evaluated.

During the dry season (Apr - Sep), the stormwater drains must be inspected to ensure that there are no blockages and no build up of sediments to disrupt the flow of water. If blockages are identified, these must be removed immediately.

The electricity usage must be monitored and evaluated.

The structural integrity of the diesel bunds must be inspected and any cracks must be repaired immediately.

A responsible person must be present when fuel is being delivered and must ensure that any spillages are cleaned up immediately.

A responsible person must check the level of sewage in the septic tank. If the tank is more than 75% full, it must be emptied within a week.

Undertake dustfall monitoring and evaluate the results.

During the rainy season (Oct - Mar), monitor the water quality in each stormwater catchment pond (after a storm event) before all the water drains out.

Biannually

Review the written agreement between the mine and the operator of the underground workings detailing the safety requirements.

During the dry season (Apr - Sep), monitor the water quality in each stormwater catchment pond (after a storm event) before all the water drains out.

Annually

Confirm the validity of all mining and / or subcontractor permits / registrations / licences which include, but are not limited to:

Mining Right.

Water use licence.

Water storage licence (if applicable).

Waste water discharge licence (if applicable).

Blasting permit.


RESPONSIBLE

PERSON MANAGEMENT ACTIVITY

Certificate of vehicle fitness.

Valid drivers licences – EC1 to EC.

Valid public drivers permit (PDP). Any permits / registrations / licences which are due to expire during the following year will be renewed prior to the expiry date.

Generate the information required and update the documentation listed below:

Mining Work Plan.

Water Balance Diagram.

Financial Provision.

Closure Plan.

All sub-contractor who carry out work at the mine must undergo induction training.

All staff members who dispense fuel must be trained to ensure that they are know how to dispense fuel without spilling and how to clean up a spill.

Undertake boundary noise monitoring and evaluate the results.

Every 2 years

Conduct the Environmental Performance Assessment in terms of the MPRDA.

Every 5 years

Generate the information required and update the documentation listed below:

Environmental Management Programme.

Social and Labour Plan.

7.8.6 Environmental Performance Assessment

In accordance with Regulation 55(1)(b), the mine will commission an independent environmental consultant to undertake an Environmental Performance Assessment of the EMP. This performance assessment will be undertaken every two years [as per Regulation 55(2)(b)] and submitted to the Gauteng DMR.


8 ENVIRONMENTAL AWARENESS PLAN Appendix 4(1)(m)

The mine is committed to promoting and implementing sustainability and recognises the importance of making all employees aware of the potential environmental impacts that could result from conducting their jobs and how this potential can be minimised through mitigation measures and effective training. Environmental awareness of the employees at the mining operation will be provided by implementing the environmental awareness training through the following methods:

Green area meeting (held monthly, with environmental topics being discussed every two months).

Poster campaigns.

EMP training (held annually, with all topics being discussed being environmental topics related to management, Section 7 of the EMP).

Induction courses (held annually, with environmental topics being discussed annually). It is important to note that the Environmental Awareness Programme (EAP) is a living document and should be reviewed regularly to ensure that relevant environmental concerns are discussed and the potential impacts of such concerns are minimised. An outline of how this will be achieved in each forum is presented below.

8.1 GREEN AREA MEETINGS It is proposed that green area meetings will take place on a monthly basis, with environmental topics being discussed every second month (see Section 8.1.2). These meetings provide an ideal opportunity to: Facilitate awareness of job-specific environmental dangers. Educate employees as to how they can live a more sustainable lifestyle outside work. The method and medium of communication during the environmental green area meetings will be determined by the team leader facilitating the meeting. For example, the initial staff component may include more staff members who speak Zulu, while over time, the staff may change and may be dominated by English speaking staff.

8.1.1 Topics for Discussion

As potential environmental impacts associated with the mine will form the focus of the environmental issues discussed with employees and will be selected from: General topics that are applicable to the entire operation. Area specific topics as identified in the impact assessment of the EIA. Topics that can be “taken home” and implemented off-site.

General Topics

There are a number of environmental impacts resulting from the mining operation that are caused by more than one activity and are therefore considered to be general impacts (entire operation impacts) that are applicable throughout the mine. Each of these topics should be discussed at least once a year. General topics include, but are not limited to those impacts identified in Section 12.3.2 to Section 12.3.6 of this report, and have been listed below:

Dust generation related impacts (particularly health related).

Noise generation and related impacts (particularly health related).

Water consumption and conservation.

Potential for water pollution and the related impacts (particularly health related).

Waste minimisation and recycling.

Alien vegetation identification and removal, and the importance of indigenous vegetation.

Practical training regarding the clean-up of major and minor hydrocarbon spills. Area Specific Topics Some areas of the operation may have environmental impacts that are unique to that area. Each of these must be addressed in the green area meetings at least once during the year. Area specific topics include, but are not limited to those impacts which are ranked as having a negative “medium” to “high significance” as determined in the impact assessment (Section 12.3.2). Some of these topics may be a repeat of those covered under general. However, it is advisable to cover these topics again in order to enforce the lessons learned.


Mining Area

Dust generation from blasting, vehicles and materials handling, and the related impacts (particularly health related).

Noise generation from vehicles and blasting, and the related impacts (particularly health related).


Practical training regarding the clean-up of major and minor hydrocarbon spills from vehicles or mobile bowsers.

The implications of speeding on dust generation and higher fuel consumption rates.

Overburden Dumps and Stockpiles

Dust generation from off-loading material to stockpiles and as a result of wind entrainment (particularly health related).

Noise generation by vehicles and from off-loading and the related impacts (particularly health related).


Identification and management of erosion, particularly in the vicinity of the canal.

Practical training regarding the clean-up of major and minor hydrocarbon spills from vehicles.

Plant

Dust generation from materials handling, crushing and wind entrainment from stockpiles (particularly health related).

Noise generation by vehicles and the crushing plant (particularly health related).

Practical training regarding the clean-up of minor hydrocarbon spills during plant maintenance.

Services and Supporting Activities


Energy consumption and conservation.


Practical training regarding the clean-up a major and minor hydrocarbon spills. Take-home Topics Environmental awareness should not stop at the work place. Many of the concepts learned at work can be applied to employees’ life styles at home. Topics that can be covered under “take home topics” include, but are not limited to:


Energy consumption and conservation.


8.1.2 Type and Frequency of Meetings

Two Monthly Dedicated Environmental Green Area Meeting

The mine will dedicate one green area meeting every two months to discussing job-specific and / or off-site (take home) environmental concerns and ways of minimising the potential for pollution generation. The topics of discussion and the medium of presentation will be determined by the team leader (as described above).

Environmental Incident Green Area Meeting

In addition, to the two monthly dedicated environmental green area meetings, environmental topics will be discussed at a green area meeting if an environmental incident occurred during the previous month. During the meeting, the following topics will be discussed (this is not an exhaustive list):

How and why the incident occurred?

How the incident was cleaned up (if applicable)?

Evaluation of the clean-up or response by staff?

Can the clean up or response be improved?

What preventative measures should be implemented? / What can be done to reduce the likelihood of the incident recurring?


8.2 POSTER CAMPAIGN Environmental awareness posters will be erected throughout the operation in order to enforce the environmental awareness topics presented during the green area meetings (Section 8.1.1). Posters are an effective means of communicating environmental awareness as they appeal to the visual senses, can be aimed at personnel with a low levels / standard of education, and the message presented is enforced by repeated sitings of the posters that are displayed for an extended period.

8.2.1 Topics for Presentation

The topics for presentation will be associated with potential environmental impacts resulting from mining activities, such as those identified for the green area meetings (listed in Section 8.1.1).

8.2.2 Frequency / Duration of Display

Monthly Campaigns

The topics of the posters will be based on the topic selected for presentation at the two monthly green area meeting, focusing on job-specific and / or off-site (take home) environmental concerns and ways of minimising the potential for pollution generation. The posters will be aimed at enforcing what was discussed in the two monthly green area meetings and will therefore be displayed for a two months at a time.

Campaigns Associated with Environmental Incidents

As with the selection of topics for green area meetings, posters relating to environmental incidents will be displayed following a month when an incident occurred and was discussed at a green area meeting. The posters will aim to enforce aspects discussed, such as:

How the incident should be cleaned up (if applicable)?

What preventative measures should be implemented? / What can be done to reduce the likelihood of the incident recurring?

8.3 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PROGRAMME TRAINING Annually, aspects of the EMP will be selected to form part of a day / two day training workshop. (The time period set aside for the workshop will be determined by staff availability and ensuring that the operation can continue while some staff attend the training.) All employees will attend components of the workshop (that are applicable to their job description). The reason that attendants will be staggered through the day / over two days is to allow mining operations to continue during the day and not have to come to a full stop in production. Topics selected for discussion will be based on the most significant impacts for the mine and environmental incidents that may have occurred during the previous year. Examples of topics to be included are:

Methods of reducing dust generation from the mine and related activities (i.e. vehicle entrainment).

Clean-up of hydrocarbon spills.

Water conservation.

Water pollution.

8.4 INDUCTION TRAINING All new employees and all sub-contractors undergo an induction course when they are employed by the mine, with repeat induction once a year. Environmental awareness must form part of this induction course. The outcome of the environmental component is to educate all mining employees and contractors of the concepts of sustainability and how this applies to the mine as well as to the individual. Note that the examples selected for this training and the means of presenting the information must be undertaken based on the education level and interest of the audience. It is currently proposed that induction will be in the form of a video followed by a short test. The reason for this format is to ensure that everyone receives the same message and that presentation in a visual manner is more effective for less educated personnel. The test after the induction will be used as a guide to determine the effectiveness of the training and whether personnel and able to understand the concepts and importance of environmental management associated with their job. The following syllabus of environmental training is to be used as a guide in the creation of a video or other induction formats:


1. Discuss the concepts of sustainability which must include:

Definition of a sustainable development - “development that meets the needs of the present generation without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs”.

An explanation of the “Triple Bottom Line” of a sustainable development; i.e. balancing environmental, social and economic factors.

An example of sustainable developments. These should be selected based on the audience. 2. Discuss the latest specific environmental goals and objectives and the benefits of achieving such goals.

As these goals change over time, the induction course must be updated accordingly. Where possible, the goals and objectives covered should be selected on the basis of topics that personnel can relate to. These could include, but are not limited to the following:

Reduce atmospheric pollution.

Objective: Reduce dust generation.

Goal: Reduce off-site dustfall rates (as a result of mining activities) to below 600mg/m2/day.

Benefits: Cleaner air to breath which has health benefits.

Benefits: Houses and cars will not have to be cleaned as frequently.

Waste minimisation.

Objective: Reduce waste generation and recycle where possible.

Goal: Initiate recycling projects.

Benefits: Reduction of waste and promotion of recycling reduces the economic and environmental costs of dealing with waste.

Benefits: Recycling projects can provide job opportunities within the community.

Benefits: Recycling waste reduces the need for disposal and reduces the potential for health concerns within communities where refuse disposal is not adequate.

Benefits: Recycling reduces the need to use non-renewable resources, ensuring that these will be available to future generations (sustainability).

3. Discuss a mine specific environmental objective that has recently been achieved and the benefits of

this achievement to the mining staff members. E.g. Noise and vibrations from blasting has been maintained at levels satisfactory to the community. This results in better community relationships and reduces the risk damage to property.

4. Concepts surrounding the living a sustainable lifestyle, that can be implemented both at work and at

home should be discussed. These could include, but are not limited to the following:

Save water.

Turn the tap off when not using water, e.g. while brushing your teeth.

Only water garden or crops when necessary and not during the heat of the day (for example, not between 10am and 3pm).

Save electricity.

Use energy efficient light bulbs.

Do not leave lights on when not required.

During cold weather, close doors and cover windows to keep the heat in the house to reduce the need for space heating.

Waste – Reduce, Reuse and Recycle.

Recycle where possible.

Collect used oil for recycling. 5. Questions / comments


9 SPECIFIC INFORMATION REQUIRED BY THE COMPETENT AUTHORITY Appendix 4(1)(n)

A meeting was held at the DMR with Mr Musa Mangobe on the 18th July 2017 to discuss the current

amendment during which it was agreed that as it is only the decommissioning and closure sections that require amendment, the content of the existing EMPr (Randell and Robinson, 2006) would be simply transferred to a document that satisfies the current requirements of Appendix 4 of the Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations, 2014 (GN R982) as amended

39, and the necessary sections on decommissioning

and closure would be amended. It was also agreed that the amended document would be made available for public consultation. A formal notification of the intention to amend the approved EMPr was then submitted in writing to the Regional Manager on the 17

th January 2018.

10 DECLARATIONS

THE EAP HEREWITH CONFIRMS I, on behalf of Umhlaba Environmental Consulting CC declare that we are an independent company and that I am an independent Environmental Assessment Practitioner and do not have and will not have any vested interest (either business, financial, personal or other) in the mining operation other than remuneration for work performed in terms of the Regulations being implemented here. I further declare:

a) The Correctness of the Information Provided in the Reports

b) The Inclusion of Comments and Inputs from Stakeholders and I&APs

c) The Inclusion of Inputs and Recommendations from the Specialist Reports where Relevant

d) That the Information Provided by the EAP to Interested and Affected Parties and any Responses by the EAP to Comments or Inputs made by Interested and Affected Parties are Correctly Reflected

herein

Signed on this day of , 20 at Signature: UNDERTAKING BY ATOLL METAL RECOVERY (PTY) LTD I, on behalf of Atoll Metal Recovery (Pty) Ltd – Zimbiwa Quarry hereby declare that the information in this document has been compiled with Atolls’ consent and is true, complete and correct to the best of my knowledge. I undertake to implement the measures as described in this Environmental Management Programme report and I understand that this undertaking is legally binding and that failure to give effect hereto will render me liable for prosecution. I am also aware that the Regional Manager may, at any time but after consultation with me, make such changes to this programme as he/she may deem necessary. Signed on this day of , 20 at Signature:

39

Amendments of April 2017.


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recommendations after alien plant control. Plant Protection Research Institute Handbook No. 11. Plant Protection Research Institute, Pretoria.

Koen, K., 2006: Zimbiwa Resources (Pty) Ltd Social and Labour Plan Amendment, lodged at the

Department of Minerals and Energy, Gauteng, Ref: (GP) 30/5/1/2/5/2 (85) SP Liebenberg-Enslin (2004): An air quality impact assessment and management plan for Consolidated

Modderfontein Mine in Brakpan. Project done on behalf of Oryx Environmental Consultants. Report no.: APP04/ORYX-02 Rev 2. Date: September 2004.

Low A.B. and Rebelo A.G. 1995: Vegetation of South Africa, Lesotho and Swaziland. Department of

Environmental Affairs and Tourism, Pretoria. Maclean G.L. 1993: Robert’s Birds of Southern Africa. CTP Book Printers, Cape Town. Midgley D.C., Pitman W.V. and Middelton B.J. 1994a: Surface Water Resources of South Africa 1990,

Volume II Appendices. Compiled by The Water Research Commission, WRC Report No. 298/2.1/94.


Midgley D.C., Pitman W.V. and Middelton B.J. 1994b: Surface Water Resources of South Africa 1990, Book of Maps Volume II. Compiled by The Water Research Commission, WRC Report No. 298/2.2/94.

Miller G.T. 2000: Living in the Environment, 11

th Edition. Brooks/Cole, London.

Minter L.R., Burger M., Harrison J.A., Braak H.H., Bishop P.J., and Kloepfer D. (Eds), 2004: Atlas and Red

Data Book of the Frogs of South Africa, Lesotho and Swaziland. SI/MBA Series #9. Smithsonian Institute, Washington DC.

Parsons, R. 1995: A South African Aquifer System Management Classification. WRC Report No KV 77/95,

Pretoria. Randell, L. and Robinson, N. 2006: Combined Environmental Impact Assessment and Environmental

Management Programme compiled for a Mining Right Application for Zimbiwa Resources (Pty) Limited, lodged with the Department of Minerals and Energy, Gauteng Ref GP 30/5/1/2/3/2/1(85)MR. Report compiled by Umhlaba Environmental Consulting CC. Report Number: Zim_004.1-06.

Russell W.B. 1998: Reducing Rainfall and Run-off Erosion on Cultivated Land; in Conservation of

Farmland in Kwazulu-Natal. Co-ordinating Editor, Russell W.B. Published by the National Department of Agriculture, Pietermaritzburg. pp 125 – 133.

SAICE/IStructE 1995: Code of Practice - Foundations and Super-structures for Buildings of Masonry

Construction. First Ed, p3.3. Scorgie Y., Fischer T., and Watson R. 2004: Air Quality Management Plan for the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan

Municipality. Report compiled by Airshed Planning Professionals and Environmental Science Associates. Report Number: APP/04/EMM-02b.

Scorgie Y, Fisher T and Watson RM. (2005): Air Quality Management Plan for the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan

Municipality, Report compiled by Airshed Planning Professionals (Pty) Ltd on behalf of Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality, Report No. APP/04/EMM-02c, 25 January 2005

STATS SA 2001: http://www.statssa.gov.za/SpecialProjects/Census2001/Atlas_ward/index.html Sinclair I., Hockey P. and Tarbonton W. 1998: Sasol Birds of Southern Africa. Struik Publishers, Cape

Town. Skinner J.D., and Chimimba C.T. 2005: Mammals of the Southern African Subregion. Third Edition.

Cambridge University Press, Cape Town. Skinner J.D., and Smithers H.N. 1990: Mammals of the Southern African Subregion. CTP Book Printers,

Cape Town. Smithers H.N. 1996: Smither’s Mammals of Southern Africa, A Field Guide. Southern Book Publishers,

Halfway House. Stuart C. and Stuart T. 1996: Filed Guide Mammals of Southern Africa. Struik Publishers, Cape Town. Van Biljon M. 2006: Geohydrological Description of the Zimbiwa Resources – East Rand Mining Basin.

Report compiled by Rison Groundwater Consulting. September 2006. van der Watt, H.v.H. and van Rooyen, T.H., 1995: A Glossary of Soil Science, 2nd Edition, The Soil

Science Society of South Africa, Pretoria van Wyk B. and Malan S. 1998: Field Guide to Wild Flowers of the Highveld. Struik Publishers, Cape

Town. van Zyl, B., 2006: Noise Impact Study for Zimbiwa Resources, Acusolv, Available from Zimbiwa Resources

(Pty) Ltd on request Vegter J.R. 2001: Groundwater development in South Africa and an Introduction to the Hydrogeology of

Groundwater Regions. Water Research Commission. Report No.: TT 134/00.

http://www.statssa.gov.za/SpecialProjects/Census2001/Atlas_ward/index.html


Wates Meiring and Barnard, 2002: Integrated Water Management Plan Geohydrological Investigation.

Report prepared for Sappi Enstra. Zimbiwa Resources Limited, 2006a: Environmental Management Plan submitted in support of a

prospecting right, lodged with the Department of Minerals and Energy, Gauteng, Ref: (GP) 30/5/1/1/2(209)PR

Zimbiwa Resources Limited, 2006b: Application for Mining Right on the Farm Modderfontein 76IR,

Remaining Extent of Portion 43 (a Portion of Portion 3), lodged with the Department of Minerals and Energy.

Zimbiwa Resources Limited, 2010: Zimbiwa Resources (Pty) Ltd Social and Labour Plan Amendment,

lodged at the Department of Minerals and Energy, Gauteng, Ref: (GP) 30/5/1/2/5/2 (85) SP and (GP) 30/5/1/2/5/2 (261) SP


12 TECHNICAL REPORTS AND SUPPORTING INFORMATION

12.1 SUPPORTING INFORMATION AS PROOF OF DETAILS AND EXPERTISE OF EAP Appendix 4(1)(a)(ii)







12.2 PUBLIC PARTICIPATION PROCESS

12.2.1 Register of I&AP to Date Regulation 42

CONTACT PERSON TEL CELL ADDRESS EMAIL

RESIDENTIAL AREAS / COMMUNITIES

1 Rynsoord Salim Dawood

073 181 0516 PO Box 5221, Benoni South, 1502 [email protected]

LANDOWNER(S) / LAWFULL OCCUPIERS

2 Atoll Mining Gavin Gouws

0861 088 886

[email protected]

Lanties Landman [email protected]

NEIGHBOURS

3 Elematic SA (Pty) Ltd Mark Blackstock 083 414 4014

[email protected]

4 Soil King Charlotte 011 423 2288/2347 082 391 7679

[email protected]

5 Pronto Readymix Frans

[email protected]

ORGANS OF STATE / MUNICIPAL COUNCILORS / AUTHORITIES

6 DMR Musa Mangobe

[email protected]

7 Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality Environmental Resource Management

Stewart Green Mr V Nesengani Sifiso Ndwandwe Anel Hietbrink

011 999 2006 / 3316

Cnr Hendrick Potgieter & Van Riebeeck Avenue

[email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

8 Department of Water & Sanitation (DWS)

Eurika Volschenk Private Bag X995, Pretoria, 0001 [email protected]

9 Gauteng Department of Agriculture & Rural Development (GDARD)

Rina Taviv 011 240 2500 P.O. Box 8769, Johannesburg, 2000 [email protected]

10 Ward Councillor Ward 73

Sinethemba Matiwane 082 390 4839

[email protected]

11 Department of Rural Development & Land Reform Land Restitution Commission

Cindy Benyane 012 310 6620

[email protected]

NGOs / INTEREST GROUPS

1 Blesbokspruit Catchment Forum

Philimon Khwinana 012 392 1356 082 884 1898 Private Bag X995, Pretoria, 0001 [email protected]

Other I&APs

13 Group Five Construction (Pty) Ltd

Tony Ruskovich 100 601 555 9 Country Estate Drive, Waterfall Business Estate, Jukskei View, 1662

[email protected]

















12.2.2 Proof of Notification and / or Registration of I&AP – including availability of the draft EMPr Regulation 42(2)(b)(ii)








12.2.3 Site Notice Regulation 42(2)(a)


12.2.4 Press Advertisement Regulation 42(2)(c)


12.2.5 Proof of Meetings




12.2.6 Responses as received from &AP










12.3 ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT

12.3.1 Impacts Associated with the Construction Phase

As both the Zimbiwa Dolomite crushing operation and the Zimbiwa Resources opencast mine are already in existence there is no construction phase. Preparatory activities such as Stripping of Overburden will be undertaken for an extended period. Therefore, this activity is considered as part of the Operational Phase of the mine. Therefore, it will not be evaluated in this section to avoid unnecessary repetition.

12.3.2 Impacts Associated with the Operational Phase

This section of the report evaluates the anticipated negative and positive impacts associated with the activities carried out during the Operational Phase of both operations (referred to as the mine). The sequence in which these activities are evaluated is the same as the sequence in which the activities are described in Section 4 – Overview of the Project Description. The results of the assessment are presented graphically for each activity.

Mine Planning

Through mine planning, the mine can make optimal utilisation of their mineral resources, which results in the reduction of geological waste and the minimisation of the footprint of the mining impact. This can be considered a positive impact. No impact ranking has been undertaken for this activity as the benefits cannot be quantified. The consequences of not undertaking mine planning may be significant for a number of aspects. The appropriate management measures are described in Section 7.2.

Stripping of Vegetation and Topsoil

As indicated in Section 4.2.2, mining of opencast operations usually starts with the stripping of vegetation and topsoil. As the mining area has been extensively disturbed through previous mining and stockpiling activities, there are no areas within the mining area that still contain any topsoil worth preserving or any areas where there is indigenous vegetation that has not been disturbed. As the Stripping of Topsoil and Vegetation will not be undertaken at this site, it is not being considered as an operational activity.

Stripping, Hauling and Stockpiling of Overburden

Evaluation of Impacts

If any Karoo overburden is present, it will be removed to expose the dolomite and dolerite material. Overburden will be stockpiled on overburden dumps (a maximum of 20m high and 20m wide) located along the northern, eastern, and southern property boundaries. The potential impacts associated with this activity are described below, with the significance rating of each presented on the graph below.

Increased potential for dust generation from exposed surfaces, materials handling and vehicle entrainment (also see Section 12.3.7 – Air Quality), and from the overburden stockpile surfaces.

Noise generated by vehicular activity and materials handling (also see Section 12.3.7 - Noise).

Altered surface water run-off patterns.

Water pollution - greater potential for increased sediment load in stormwater run-off.

Altered topography resulting in visual impacts.

The creation of a visual, noise and dust screen (stockpiling of overburden). The impacts associated with vehicle tailpipe emissions are not evaluated as they are considered to be insignificant based on the low number of vehicles used. No impacts on vegetation or habitat are considered due to the disturbed nature of the site (also see Section 12.3.7 – Fauna and Flora).


Seasonal Impacts:

The significance ranking of the impacts associated with dust will increase during the drier (May to September), windier months (August to December), when the dust generating potential increases. During this period, the Consequence and Probability of the impact may increase. Therefore, the significance ranking will vary between one of MEDIUM to one of MEDIUM-HIGH significance, when seasonal influences / climatic conditions facilitate dust generation and dispersal.

The impacts associated with altered surface water run-off patterns and the potential for an increased sediment load in stormwater run-off (water pollution) will only occur during times of rain and are not considered an impact during dry days / periods. Therefore, the significance ranking of these impacts will only materialise during and after rainfall. The associated impacts are considered to be of MEDIUM significance.

Cumulative Impacts:

Vehicle entrainment and wind erosion are considered to significant contributors to fugitive dust form the mining operations (Table 12.2). Given this and the poor air quality in the vicinity of the mine (Liebenberg-Enslin, 2006; Section 12.9), there is the potential that the significance ranking of the impacts associated with dust will increase when considered cumulatively. During the winter months, the impacts are considered to be of MEDIUM-HIGH significance.

I&AP: I&AP raised concerns regarding dust and noise from the operations as a whole and not from specific activities. Therefore, the impact on the significance ranking has been evaluated for this collective impact in Section 12.3.7 – Air Quality and Noise. Confidence ranking: Based on input from the specialist studies, the confidence of the accuracy of this evaluation is high.

Drilling, Blasting and Secondary Breaking

Drilling within the pit (12m below the surface) will be undertaken daily (between 7am and 6pm), with blasting being initiated one to three times a week between mid-day and the late afternoon. More frequent, smaller blasts have been proposed in order to reduce the impacts resulting from noise, vibration and dust. In addition, the latest blasting technology will also be utilised in order to reduce the impacts of blasting.

Concerns Raised by I&AP

The impacts associated with blasting were raised as a concern at the public meetings, with specific reference to:

The potential damage to property (such as houses and swimming pools).

The noise generated by the blast causing unease, apprehension and increased stress levels.

The need for on-going monitoring.

Hauling and stockpiling of overburden

Dust

Noise

Surface water run-offWater pollution

Visual

Screen

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MEDIUM

MED-HIGH

HIGH


In order to evaluate the impacts from blasting, use was made of the following monitoring data:

Data recorded during blasting activities undertaken since the granting of the Mining Right in May 2007. Monitoring has been undertaken since 3

rd August 2007, at three monitoring station, viz. the

house of Mr. J Jamba (#1273, Kingsway), the house of Mr. A Limalia (#2 Rolina St, Rynsoord), and the sewerage pump station in Brakpan North.

Mr Erik Kohler was responsible for the blasting monitoring during the period 3rd

August 2007 and 25th

March 2008. During this time “there were no significant incidents. There were minor events such as over charged holes, missing holes etc. but nothing that impacted on the neighbourhood from the point of view of ground vibration, air blast, fly rock, fumes.” (pers. comm. And e-mail from Erick Kohler, Section 12.13).

Data recorded during previous blasting activities undertaken in the pit when Pamodzi was mining in the pit. Monitoring was undertaken by Erik Kohler between June 2004 and January 2005, at three monitoring station, viz. in Kingsway, Rynsoord and Brakpan North. A summary of the analysis of the data is provided below (extracted form the report by E. Kohler which is included in Section 12.13).

Of the 3 719 events recorded at all three stations between May 2004 and January 2005, twenty-two of these events could be linked to blasting at the Pamodzi open pit. (See Section 12.10 for a copy of the results.)

Four of the blast events were registered at Brakpan North. Air blast was recorded at a maximum level of 112dB. One blast registered ground vibration at 0.254mm/sec, which is insignificant.

Eighteen blast events were recorded at Kingsway. Three of these blasts registered ground vibrations at low levels viz. 0.127mm/sec, 0.254mm/sec and 1.651mm/sec. The first two are insignificant and the third is still well within the United States Bureau of Mines (USBM) accepted limits.

No blast related disturbances were registered at Rynsoord.

The remaining events recorded were all caused by local disturbances.

All of the ground vibration levels fall well within the USBM specification. Damage to structures will not occur at these levels.

All of the air blast levels fall well below the damage thresholds limits proposed by Perssonn. Damage to structures will not occur at the levels recorded.


The potential impacts associated with this activity are described below, with the significance rating of each presented on the graph below. The ranking of these impacts has been undertaking using information from the noise impact study (Section 12.10), information provided by the blasting contractors and blast monitoring results (Section 12.14). Drilling:

Dust generated during drilling.

Noise (drilling) generated from the drill rig. Blasting:

Dust generated during the blast.

Noise generated from the blast.

Vibrations caused by the blast.

Structural damage to off-site buildings as a result of vibrations.

Potential for fly-rock which is a risk to humans and fauna.

Altered topography resulting in visual impacts and limiting the potential end use of the site.


Although drilling and blasting will occur frequently, state-of-the-art blasting technology will be utilised and more frequent, smaller blasts will be initiated which will contribute to the majority of the impacts associated with this activity being negative impacts of LOW significance. Seasonal Impacts:

The potential for the dispersion of dust generated is considered to increase during the drier (May to September), windier months (August to December) and has the potential to alter the significance ranking of the impact. However, in the case of dust generated by drilling and blasting, the source of dust is confined to the pit where seasonal influences of wind are reduced (although not removed). Seasonal influences have the potential to increase the Probability and to a lesser extent the Consequence of the impact. Therefore, there is the potential for the significance ranking to increase to one of MEDIUM significance.

Cumulative Impacts:

As dust generated from drilling is constant throughout the operational period, the significance ranking of the impacts has the potential to be elevated to one of MEDIUM significance on days when atmospheric conditions and baseline dust levels are poor.

The significance ranking of the impacts associated with dust generated during blasting will increase when considered cumulatively with the other sources as the baseline air quality in the vicinity of the mine can be poor, depending on climatic conditions and emissions from other sources (Liebenberg-Enslin, 2006; Section 12.9). However, it must be noted that the dust generated during blasting is a once-off / instantaneous source that occurs at the time of the blast and does not occur throughout the day. However, if blasting takes place at a time when dust levels in the atmosphere are already high, the Consequence of the impact (on that day) may be elevated to one of MEDIUM significance. If not, they will remain as LOW significance.

I&AP: I&AP raised concerns regarding blasting, dust and noise. The concerns regarding blasting have already been discussed prior to the evaluation of the impacts. The concerns regarding dust and noise are associated with emissions from the operations as a whole and not from specific activities. Therefore, the impact on the significance ranking has been evaluated for this collective impact in Section 12.3.7 – Air Quality and Noise. Confidence Ranking: Input with regards to the impacts associated with blasting was requested from the blasting contractors. As their contract with the mine makes them liable for any blasting related damage caused off-site, it is in their best interest to ensure that the impacts on neighbouring residential areas is kept to a minimum. In addition, use was made of current airblast and vibration monitoring results recorded since the granting of the Mining Right (results included in Section 12.10). Therefore, the confidence of the accuracy of this evaluation is high.

Drilling and blasting

Dust (drilling)

Noise (drilling)

Dust (blasting) Noise (blasting)Vibration

Structural damage

Fly rock

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MEDIUM

MED-HIGH

HIGH


Loading, Hauling and Stockpiling of Mined Material


Blasted material will be loaded to haul vehicles by an excavator and transported to the stockpiles located adjacent to the primary crushers. The potential impacts associated with this activity are described below, with the significance rating of each presented on the graph below.

Increased potential for dust generation from materials handling, vehicle entrainment and wind entrainment from stockpiles (also see Section 12.3.7 – Air Quality).

Noise generated by vehicular activity and materials handling (also see Section 12.3.7 - Noise).

Altered surface water run-off patterns through the creation of stockpiles.

Water pollution - greater potential for increased sediment load in stormwater run-off from the stockpiles.

Altered topography through the creation of stockpiles, resulting in visual impacts. The impacts associated with vehicle tailpipe emissions are not evaluated as they are considered to be insignificant based on the low number of vehicles used.

Seasonal Impacts:

The dust generation potential increases during the drier (May to September), windier months (August to December). As a result, the Consequence of the impact may increase during this period. Therefore, the significance ranking associated with dust will vary between one of MEDIUM to one of MEDIUM-HIGH significance, when seasonal influences / climatic conditions facilitate dust generation and dispersal.

The impacts associated with altered surface water run-off patterns and the potential for an increased sediment load in stormwater run-off (water pollution) will only occur during times of rain and are not considered an impact during dry days / periods. Therefore, the significance ranking of these impacts will only materialise during and after rainfall. The associated impacts are considered to be of MEDIUM and LOW significance, respectively.

Cumulative Impacts: The impacts associated with dust, noise and tailpipe emissions can be considered cumulative as there are also off-site sources of these impacts in the vicinity of the mine.

Dust generated from vehicle entrainment and wind erosion is a significant contributor to the overall dust generated from the operations. Coupled with the poor baseline air quality in the vicinity of the mines (Liebenberg-Enslin, 2006; Section 12.9), there is the potential for increased Consequences as a result of dust generation, when considered cumulatively. Therefore, contributions from the loading, hauling and stockpiling of run-of-mine (ROM) may be considered to be of MEDIUM-HIGH significance.

I&AP: I&AP raised concerns regarding dust and noise from the operations as a whole and not from specific activities. Therefore, the impact on the significance ranking has been evaluated for this collective impact in Section 12.3.7 – Air Quality and Noise.

Loading, hauling and stockpiling of mined material

Dust

Noise

Surface water run-off

Water pollution

Visual

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Co

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LOW-MED

MEDIUM

MED-HIGH

HIGH


Confidence ranking: Based on input from the specialist studies, the confidence of the accuracy of this evaluation is high.

Crushing and Screening


Material extracted from the pit is processed through a series of crushers and screens before being stockpiled as product. Sand is produced by feeding the fine fraction (-75µm) through a cyclone (a closed system) before being stockpiled (in the open). The potential impacts associated with this activity (crushing, screening and cyclone) are described below, with the significance rating of each presented on the graph below.

Dust generation from crushing and screening of mined material (also see Section 12.3.7 – Air Quality) and from the cyclone.

Noise generated from cyclone, crushing and screening (considered cumulatively with the noise from the crushing and screening plant). (also see Section 12.3.7 – Noise).

The visual impact caused by the plant, and cyclone.

Seasonal Impacts:

The potential for dust generation and dispersion is considered to increase during the drier (May to September), windier months (August to December). This has the potential to alter the significance ranking of the impact. Despite the management measures implemented (enclosing of the crushers and screens), experience has shown that the significance ranking increases during this period, and will be considered to have a MEDIUM-HIGH significance ranking.

Usually the significance ranking of the impacts associated with dust generation will increase during the drier (May to September), windier months (August to December), when the dust generating potential increases. However, the cyclone is a closed system and the Probability for the impact being realised is considered to be very low. Therefore, it is anticipated that the significance of the impact will not increase as a result of seasonal influences and remain one of LOW-MEDIUM significance.

Cumulative Impacts:

The significance ranking of the impacts associated with dust from the crushing and screening operations will increase when considered cumulatively with the other sources as the baseline air quality in the vicinity of the mine can be poor, depending on climatic conditions and emissions from other sources (Liebenberg-Enslin, 2006; Section 12.9). The significance ranking is anticipated to increase to one of MEDIUM-HIGH significance.

Although the baseline air quality is poor (Liebenberg-Enslin, 2006; Section 12.9), the volume of dust generated from the cyclone is anticipated to be so low that no change in the significance ranking is expected. The impact is considered to remain as LOW-MEDIUM significance.

Crushing and screening, including cyclone and sand plant

Dust (crushing & screening)

Dust (cyclone)

Dust (sand plant)

Noise

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MED-HIGH

HIGH


I&AP: I&AP raised concerns regarding dust and noise from the operations as a whole and not from specific activities. Therefore, the impact on the significance ranking has been evaluated for this collective impact in Section 12.3.7 – Air Quality and Noise. Confidence ranking: Based on comments received from the public, experience and results from on-site monitoring, the confidence of the accuracy of this evaluation is high.

Mining of Dolomitic “Waste” Dumps


The mined material is extracted from the dolomitic “waste dumps” using excavators as discussed in Section 4.2.7. The mined material enters the same mining process as the material mined from the pit and therefore the following mining activities are applicable to the mining of the dumps:

Secondary breaking (Section 4.2.4).

Loading, hauling and stockpiling of mined material (Section 4.2.5).

Crushing and screening (Section 4.2.6). The potential impacts associated with this activity have been determined as the same for the activities associated with mining from the pit, thus the evaluation of the impacts is discussed in the following sections discussed above:

Secondary breaking

Loading, hauling and stockpiling of mined material

Crushing and screening

12.3.3 Impacts Associated with the Supporting Services and Activities

As many of the supporting services have similar impacts, the significance ranking of these has been presented on combined graphs where possible. The activities to which the impacts relate are indicated in the graph heading and the names of the impacts presented on the graph relate to the impacts listed in the text as bold.

Water Supply and Use

Potable Water

As this is an existing operation, there are no impacts associated with an increased demand for water on the existing service provider. As potable water is only used for human consumption and not as process water, no impacts have been considered.

Process Water

Mining: There are positive impacts associated with the collection of stormwater for use as process water.

Reduce demand on natural water resources (such as the Klein Blesbokspruit) or on purified water / potable water.

Reduce the need for cleaning “dirty” water before discharge. Both impacts are considered to be of MEDIUM significance. Seasonal and Cumulative Impacts: No seasonal impacts are considered.

Processing:

The extraction of water from the Klein Blesbokspruit will reduce the volume of water that flows past the mine property.

The significance of the negative impact associated with the extraction of water is considered to be LOW-MEDIUM, due to the low volumes that are extracted. The implications of this extraction will be evaluated in more detail in the Water Use Licence Application (WULA) being submitted to DWA. Seasonal Impacts: The significance of the impacts associated with the use of process water (from all sources) will increase during winter. Cumulative Impacts: Given that the impact resulting from reduced surface water run-off feeding the Klein Blesbokspruit did not result from the mining activities (although it does persist), no cumulative impacts are considered.


Confidence ranking: No specialist input has been provided for this evaluation. Therefore, the confidence of the accuracy of this evaluation is low.

Stormwater Management


Stormwater on-site will be managed according to the amended Stormwater Management Plan. If stormwater is managed in this way no impacts are anticipated. If stormwater is not managed, the following impacts are anticipated:

Increased sediment load in stormwater run-off flowing into the Klein Blesbokspruit, causing a change in the water quality that may adversely affect aquatic life.

The significance of such an impact is considered to be LOW due to the low volume of stormwater that will be able to flow into the river, as a result of the location of overburden berms preventing the flow of stormwater from the majority mining site into the river.

Seasonal Impacts: The impacts associated with the potential for an increased sediment load in stormwater run-off will only occur during times of rain and is not considered an impact during dry days / periods. Therefore, the significance ranking of this impact will only materialise during and after rainfall - LOW significance. Cumulative Impacts: No cumulative impacts are considered. I&AP: One of the concerns raised with regard to stormwater management is the release of sediment-rich water into the Blesbokspruit. According to Brooker (2006), theoretical particle settling velocities were calculated using Stokes Law and drag coefficients given by Albertson et al. (1960) which assume quiescent water conditions with no turbulence. “This analysis shows that the sand fraction would settle to a depth of 1m within a minute or less, and that coarse to medium silt would settle to this depth within a few minutes to a few hours. Even fine silt with a particle size exceeding 0.005mm will settle to a depth of 1m within about 12 hours. These materials, that are likely make up the greater proportion of sediment washed off the property, would therefore be trapped in a sedimentation pond with a retention time of about 24 hours. The fine fraction, made up of file silt and clay would, however, take considerably longer to settle to a depth of 1m. The theoretical settling rate of particles sized 0.002mm is 90h/m but in reality this will depend on other characteristics of the material such as coagulation that will in turn depend on the chemistry of the water and the material itself. In the absence of better information it cannot be assumed that efficient coagulation of clay and fine silt particles will occur, so some of the solid matter carried by stormwater runoff is likely to be flushed through a sediment trap with a retention time of 24 hours. A degree of bypass is acceptable, and even necessary,

Impacts associated with water use and storm water management

Extraction from Klein

Blesbokspruit

Reduce demandNo cleaning of "dirty" water

Storm water

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for ecological reasons. Natural morphological processes in rivers require a supply of sediment from the catchment. It is accepted the Blesbok Spruit is probably oversupplied with sediment from other sources, but this supply should be controlled at source and the control not imposed on the mine. A trap retention time of 24 hours is therefore regarded as acceptable (Section 12.7). Confidence ranking: As the original Stormwater Management Plan was compiled by a professional and will be amended with input from the same professional, the confidence of the accuracy of this evaluation is high.

Power / Electricity

Electricity will be used for administration, for the workshop facilities and for running both plants. Due to the supply of electricity being from the EMM, there are no on-site impacts associated with power supply.

All impacts associated with power generation (electricity) are off-site impacts at the site where electricity is generated. The most significant being the Carbon emissions and the contribution to global warming.

The significance of such an impact is considered to be HIGH. Seasonal and Cumulative Impacts: Due to the scale of the impact (international) and the national and global significance, seasonal and cumulative aspects have not been considered. It is accepted that the impacts associated with the use of electricity are considered significant and management measures must be implemented. Confidence ranking: Given that it is scientifically proven that the generation of electricity by burning fossil fuels (and ultimately the use of electricity) causes global impacts, the confidence of the accuracy of this evaluation is high.

Administration

The potential impacts associated with the administration activities will be:

The use of power (evaluated in Section 12.3.3 – Power / Electricity).

The generation of waste (evaluated in Section 12.3.3 – Waste).

Maintenance / Workshop

In order to undertake maintenance activities, it will be necessary for the mine to store lubricants and other hydrocarbons on-site.

The storage of these substances has the potential to cause negative environmental impacts if stored incorrectly or in the event of a spill (evaluated in Section 12.3.4 – Hydrocarbon Spills).

Vehicle Maintenance

The potential impacts associated with the maintenance of vehicles include:

Waste generation (evaluated in Section 12.3.3 - Waste).

Accidental hydrocarbon spills or leaks (evaluated in Section 12.3.4 – Hydrocarbon Spills).

Plant Maintenance

The potential impacts associated with the maintenance of the plant include:

Waste generation (evaluated in Section 12.3.3 - Waste).



The grading of haul roads (by means of a grader) has the potential to result in both positive and negative environmental impacts.

Dust generation during grading.

Noise generation during grading.

Reduce potential for erosion along haul roads.


Seasonal Impacts:

Although the dust generation potential increases during the drier (May to September), windier months (August to December), the volume of dust generated from grading is low. Therefore, despite an increase in the Probability and possibly the Consequence, the overall impact is not anticipated to increase from one of a LOW significance.

Cumulative Impacts:

The baseline air quality in the vicinity of the mine has been described as poor (Liebenberg-Enslin, 2006; Section 12.9). However, the volume of dust generated from grading is low and grading takes place infrequently (when compared with other sources). If the significance ranking does increase as cumulatively, the significance ranking is not anticipated to be more than LOW-MEDIUM.

I&AP: I&AP raised concerns regarding dust and noise from the operations as a whole and not from specific activities. Therefore, the impact on the significance ranking has been evaluated for this collective impact in Section 12.3.7 – Air Quality and Noise. Confidence ranking: As the specialist surveys did not specifically consider this activity, no specialist input is provided for this evaluation. Hence, the confidence of the accuracy of this evaluation is low.

Diesel

The potential impacts associated with the storage and dispensing of diesel include:


Sanitation Facilities

The potential impacts associated with the septic tank and French drains that are used for the disposal of sewage include:

Odours that may be emitted if the septic tank is allowed to full to capacity or if the French drain becomes clogged with overflowed sewage.

Pollution of groundwater if the septic tank is allowed to full to capacity or if the French drain becomes clogged with overflowed sewage.

Seasonal and Cumulative Impacts: No seasonal or cumulative impacts are considered. I&AP: No concerns were raised by I&AP. Confidence ranking: Based on the historic management of the sanitation facilities at the mine, the confidence of the accuracy of this evaluation is high.

Impacts associated with power generation and road maintenance

Electricity

Dust

Noise

Erosion (reduced)

0

10

20

30

40

50

60

70

80

90

100

0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100

Probability

Co

ns

eq

ue

nc

een

LOW

LOW-MED

MEDIUM

MED-HIGH

HIGH


Waste

Domestic and Industrial Waste

On-site negative impacts that may result from the generation of waste products will be associated with the storage of these waste products. These include:

Hydrocarbon spills onto bare soils due to incorrect storage. This will result in pollution of soils, surface water run-off and groundwater. The significance of these impacts is evaluated in Section 12.3.4 – Hydrocarbon Spills).

Litter blowing around the site due to bins not being emptied or sealed correctly.

Recycling of products (such as used oil and batteries) or the re-use of products for other purposes (such as conveyor belts) minimises the quantity of waste being disposed, thereby reducing the need for a disposal site.

Recycling of products (such as used oil and batteries) also reducing the demand for raw materials.

Settlement Dams

The fines collected in the settlement dam are currently being removed and sold as a component of agricultural lime fertilizer. The use of a waste product as a resource has the following benefits:

Reducing the demand for raw materials.

Minimising the quantity of waste being disposed, thereby reducing the need for a disposal site for the fines.

Seasonal and Cumulative Impacts: No seasonal or cumulative impacts are considered. I&AP: No concerns were raised by I&AP. Confidence ranking: The benefits of recycling of waste are obvious and the confidence of the accuracy of this evaluation is high.

12.3.4 Impacts Associated with the Emergency Incidents and / or Accidents

Hydrocarbon Spills

When considering a hydrocarbon spill as an emergency incident and / or accident, only large scale spills are considered. The reason being that small scale spills (such as oil leaking from a vehicle parked overnight or a 1ℓ can of oil being dropped on the ground) occur on a regular basis as part of the day-to-day running of the operation. Clean up of these spills should be a routine activity. A large spill will hopefully never happen during the life of a mine and will require a co-ordinated response in order to clean it up. In addition, the environmental impacts associated with a large spill (if not cleaned up promptly) are more significant.

Impacts associated with sanitation and waste

Odours (sanitation)

Ground water (sanitation)

Litter

Reduced demand on disposal

sites & raw materials

0

10

20

30

40

50

60

70

80

90

100

0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100

Probability

Co

ns

eq

ue

nc

een

LOW

LOW-MED

MEDIUM

MED-HIGH

HIGH


There is the potential for hydrocarbons to spill or leak from the following sources or as a result of the following scenarios:

Haul vehicles.

Diesel tank.

During off-loading of the fuel from the supplier.

During refuelling of haul vehicles.

Transportation of fuel to the excavator.

During refuelling of the excavator.

During service activities undertaken in the workshops. Large scale hydrocarbon spills onto bare soils will have the potential of causing the following environmental impacts if not cleaned up:

Pollution of soils on which the spill occurred. It must be noted that as the soils on-site are disturbed and predominantly compacted, the significance of pollution of this medium is reduced.

Pollution of surface water (Klein Blesbokspruit) if stormwater is allowed to flow over the spill area before it is cleaned up and then into the Klein Blesbokspruit.

Pollution of the groundwater if the hydrocarbons are allowed to filter through the soils (i.e. not cleaned up).

The evaluation of the impacts presented in this graph assumes that the spill has occurred and has not been cleaned up.

Seasonal Impacts: The impacts associated with the potential for the pollution of surface water will only occur during times of rain and is not considered an impact during dry days / periods. Therefore, the significance ranking of this impact will only materialise during rainfall if the spill has not been cleaned up. The significance of this impact is considered to be HIGH. Cumulative Impacts: No cumulative impacts are considered. I&AP: No concerns were raised by I&AP. Confidence ranking: Through consultation with specialists in the field of hazardous spill clean ups, the confidence of the accuracy of this evaluation is high.

Fire

Impacts associated with fire include:

Smoke / air pollution.

Damage to vegetation and habitats.

The loss of vegetation could potentially encourage erosion.

Impacts associated with hydrocarbon spills

Soil

Surface water (Klein

Blesbokspruit)

Ground water

0

10

20

30

40

50

60

70

80

90

100

0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100

Probability

Co

ns

eq

ue

nc

een

LOW

LOW-MED

MEDIUM

MED-HIGH

HIGH


Damage to structures and equipment.

Pollution of water used for fire fighting through the increase in sediment load in the water that may run off -site.

12.3.5 Impacts Associated with the Socio-economic Aspects

Employment

During the 2001 census, 40% of the population within the EMM were unemployed (Section 2.1.1), with the unemployment level in Ward 73 being 26% (Koen, 2006). Although no new jobs will be created (both mining operations are existing), the level of unemployment will not increase as a result of the continued operation of the mines. This is considered to have a positive impact, considering the dependency ration (1 to 5) and indirect employment benefits (multiplier factor of 3) In addition, continued employment will, to a limited extent, ensure the continued spending of money in the community. This will have an indirect positive impact for the Ward and the Municipality. The continued operation of the mines will have the following positive socio-economic impacts:

Reduced unemployment / Job creation.

Increased spending.

Seasonal Impacts: No seasonal impacts are considered. Cumulative Impacts: As the mining industry is not an independent operation that can operate in isolation, there are cumulative socio-economic benefits that result from associated industries. The cumulative impacts are realised for job creation and increased spending in the community.

The mining operation employs more than 100 people (Koen, 2006). When considering the dependency ratio of 1 to 5, this results in over 500 people benefiting from the mine and associated crushing operation.

68% of the combined workforce is from Springs, Brakpan and Benoni (Koen, 2006). Therefore, there will be an equivalent increased spending in the local communities and the indirect creation jobs. The SLP refers to a multiplier factor of 3, indicating that for every worker employed, approximately 3 indirect jobs are created in the areas where the income is spent.

When applying the dependency ration and the multiplier factors, the significance of the socio-economic impacts of the operations could be considered to have a HIGH significance ranking.

I&AP: The residents of Kingsway publicly thanked the mine for their contributions during the public meetings. Confidence ranking: The benefits associated with job creation / reduced unemployment can be considered subjective, but are also based on information provided in the SLP. Therefore, the confidence in the accuracy of this evaluation is medium to high.

Impacts associated with employment

Reduced unemployment

Increased spending

0

10

20

30

40

50

60

70

80

90

100

0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100

Probability

Co

ns

eq

ue

nc

een

LOW

LOW-MED

MEDIUM

MED-HIGH

HIGH


When evaluating the positive impacts associated with job creation it is important to consider that the mine provides the construction industry with 130 000t to 150 000t of aggregate on a monthly basis. If the supply of this material to the construction industry were to stop abruptly, this would result in a shortfall of available aggregate to the industry. This would have a significant impact on construction within the mining area of influence and on the pricing of aggregate in general as aggregate material would be in greater demand and would have to be sourced from further afield. In both instances, the price of aggregate would increase, resulting in a snowball effect for all downstream industries and users. In order to place this aspect in context, information provided by Brian Peter (Managing Director of AfriMix Readymixed Concrete – see Section 12.16) and competitors to the mine (who did not want to be named in this report) has been included below. According to these sources, the impacts of the loss of 150 000t of aggregate per month from the market would be as follows:

Since there is currently a shortage of quality material for concrete and road manufacture, this would have a significant impact on the construction industry. A loss of aggregate from the market of this magnitude would result in a loss of approximately 50 000m

3 to 75 000m

3 of concrete for the

construction industry.

Such a loss of raw materials will have a significant ripple effect on the "down the line" costs of construction, through increased cost of stone (as the cost is governed by demand). This will also affect the "down the line" costs of all aspects, such as houses, municipal maintenance costs, road maintenance costs, etc.

This increased construction costs would also have socio-economic impacts on projects such as low-cost housing developments. If the cost of construction of low-cost housing increases, there is the potential that fewer houses will be constructed, putting additional pressure on the demand for housing.

The loss of aggregate from the market in the East Rand would also create a vacuum effect as the need to transport material from other areas would result in the concerns listed above, spreading to other areas, as material is brought in from further afield in an attempt to meet the demand on the East Rand.

12.3.6 Impacts Associated with Decommissioning and Closure

Decommissioning

The potential impacts associated with this activity are described below, with the significance rating of each presented on the graph below.

Dust generated during the dismantling of the plants.

Noise generated during the dismantling of the plants.

Dust generated during the removal of infrastructure.

Noise generated during the removal of infrastructure.

Water pollution - greater potential for increased sediment load in stormwater run-off from the compacted areas which are now being disturbed.

The removal of the plants will improve the aesthetics of the site (visual).


Seasonal Impacts:

The dust generation potential increases during the drier (May to September), windier months (August to December). As a result, the Consequence and Probability of the impact may increase during this period. Therefore, the significance ranking associated with dust will vary between one of LOW to MEDIUM significance, when seasonal influences / climatic conditions facilitate dust generation and dispersal.

The impacts associated with the potential for an increased sediment load in stormwater run-off (water pollution) will only occur during times of rain and is not considered an impact during dry days / periods. Therefore, the significance ranking of this impact will only materialise during and after rainfall. As there are overburden berms between the plant area and the Klein Blesbokspruit, and given that all stormwater run-off from the plant area is collected in a settlement dam, the Probability and Consequence of this impact are low – LOW significance.

Cumulative Impacts: The significance ranking of the impacts associated with dust will increase when considered cumulatively as the baseline air quality in the vicinity of the mine can be poor, depending on climatic conditions and emissions from other sources (Liebenberg-Enslin, 2006; Section 12.9). Given the already elevated pollution levels in the vicinity of the mine, contributions from decommissioning activities may increase the Consequence of the impact, resulting in a MEDIUM significance ranking during the winter months. I&AP: I&AP raised concerns regarding dust and noise from the operations as a whole and not specifically related to decommissioning activities. Therefore, no consideration has been given to any change in significance as a result of I&AP input. Confidence ranking: As no specialist input was obtained for decommissioning activities and no monitoring data is available, the confidence of the accuracy of this evaluation is low.

Closure

Although no detail is provided for closure, there are certain activities which will be undertaken (Section 4.5). The potential impacts associated with these activities are described below.

Drilling and Blasting

The scale of the blasts required for rehabilitation and closure are not known at this stage. Therefore, the evaluation of impacts cannot be undertaken. As an indication of the potential significance ranking of these impacts, refer to those anticipated during drilling and blasting during the operational phase (Section 12.3.2 – Drilling, Blasting and Secondary Breaking). For reference purposes, the potential impacts associated with this activity is described below. Drilling:

Decommissioning: Removal of infrastructure

Dust (dismantling)Noise (dismantling)

Dust (infrastructure)Noise (infrastructure)Water pollution

Visual

0

10

20

30

40

50

60

70

80

90

100

0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100

Probability

Co

ns

eq

ue

nc

een

LOW

LOW-MED

MEDIUM

MED-HIGH

HIGH


Dust generated during drilling.

Noise (drilling) generated from the drill rig. Blasting:

Dust generated during the blast.

Noise generated from the blast.

Vibrations caused by the blast.

Structural damage to off-site buildings as a result of vibrations.

Potential for fly-rock which is a risk to humans and fauna.

Altered topography resulting in the potential for rehabilitation of the site.

Rehabilitation Activities

The details of the rehabilitation activities are not known at this stage. Therefore, the evaluation of impacts cannot be undertaken with any accuracy. As an indication of the potential significance ranking of these impacts, refer to those anticipated for the removal / stripping of overburden, as well as those associated with the haulage and stockpiling of this material. These are described in Section 12.3.2). For reference purposes, the potential impacts associated with this activity is described below.

Dust generated during the preparation of the site.

Noise during the preparation of the site.

Altered surface water run-off patterns.

Water pollution - greater potential for increased sediment load in stormwater run-off.

Altered aesthetics of the site which is most likely to improve the visual impact. The impacts associated with vehicle tailpipe emissions are not evaluated as they are considered to be insignificant based on the low number of vehicles used.

Re-vegetation Activities

As the details of the re-vegetation of the site are not known at this stage, the evaluation of impacts cannot be undertaken with any accuracy. However, an attempt has been made to evaluate the potential impacts as they are likely to all be positive and cannot be compared with any operational activities.

Removal of alien vegetation.

Improvement of the aesthetics of the site (visual).

Reduced potential for soil erosion.

Reduced potential for elevated sedimentation levels in stormwater run-off (water pollution).

Reduced surface are from which wind entrained dust can be lifted.

Socio-economic Aspects

The potential impacts on the socio-economics of the area are described below, with the significance rating of each presented on the graph above.

Job loss.

Closure: Re-vegetation

Alien vegetation removal

Visual (improved)Soil erosion (reduced)Water pollution (reduced)

Dust (reduced)

0

10

20

30

40

50

60

70

80

90

100

0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100

Probability

Co

ns

eq

ue

nc

een

LOW

LOW-MED

MEDIUM

MED-HIGH

HIGH


Loss of resources – loss of the supply of material to the construction industry.

Seasonal and Cumulative Impacts: No seasonal or cumulative impacts are considered. I&AP: No concerns were raised by I&AP. Confidence ranking: The confidence of the accuracy of this evaluation is medium as it is not possible, at this stage, to determine if the closure of the mine will affect related industries or if they will be able to source material from other areas.

12.3.7 Environmental Evaluation

Groundwater

The discussion of impacts presented in this section of the report have been extracted from the “Geohydrological Description of the Zimbiwa Resources – East Rand Mining Basin”, compiled by Marius van Biljon of Rison Groundwater Consulting. A full copy of his report is attached in Section 12.8.1, with all references referred to in this section of the report, having been obtained from that report. Impact on the Dolomitic Aquifer In the impact evaluation of the geohydrological report, it is stated that “the dolomite aquifer in the vicinity of the mine appears to be completely drained. It is therefore concluded that the current impact as well as the future extension of the West Pit 1 will have negligible impact on the aquifer.” Impact on Groundwater Quality The geohydrological report confirms that there are no boreholes located in the vicinity of the mine

40 “due

to the fact that the aquifer has been drained and that no groundwater is present”. Therefore, in order to determine the quality of the groundwater in the vicinity of the mine, the quality of the mine void aquifer must be used. This void “hosts poor quality water” with “elevated iron and sulphate concentrations”, which are “indicative of mine pollution” (Table 2.18). Where this polluted water is pumped from underground workings (at Grootvlei No. 3 Shaft) it is treated via a High Density Solids process including aeration and addition of lime to remove primarily iron, before being discharged into the Blesbokspruit. The crushing of dolomite at the mining site “is not expected to contribute to the further deterioration of the mine water quality, in fact it is likely to improve the quality slightly and has the same impact as adding lime as mentioned above. The pH will increase and the mobilisation of heavy metals will be reduced as a result.”

40

It has been indicated that the CSIR has boreholes in the vicinity of the operation, but Umhlaba was not able to obtain this information.

Closure: Socio-economic aspects

Job losses

Loss of resource

0

10

20

30

40

50

60

70

80

90

100

0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100

Probability

Co

ns

eq

ue

nc

een

LOW

LOW-MED

MEDIUM

MED-HIGH

HIGH


Ingress to Underground Workings As the mine forms part of the ERMB, water collected in the base of the pit (during the life of the mine) will contribute to ingress of water into the underground workings, particularly into the Pamodzi mine as this is located below the mining pit. (Note that prior to the granting of the Mining Right there was no management of water collecting in the pit, in order to reduce ingress.) Underground mining below and in the vicinity of the pit (undertaken by Pamodzi), to gain access to extract both the Kimberley Reef and the Black Reef, are linked to the underground mine void. Therefore, “all rainfall falling within the pit reports to the mine void” through ingress, over time (as is the current situation). “Based on an annual rainfall of 700mm per annum and an aerial extent (Mineral Corporation, 2006) of 88 040 m

2 of open pit it is estimated that the West Pit 1” (the pit) “contribute an average of 0.169

Ml/day to the groundwater balance.” As mining progresses to the south, the volume of ingress will increase to 1.023 Mℓ/day (533 585m

2) at the end of life of mine

41. This is an increase of 0.854Mℓ/day

from the current situation, with the increase being gradually evident over the life of the mine. When evaluating this ingress, it must be noted that this value assumes that all rain falling in the pit seeps into underground workings over time, allowing for various seepage rates depending of the transitivity of the material. It must also be noted that this ingress may not occur throughout the year, but predominantly during the rainy season (typically October to March) with minimal ingress during dry periods (Figure 12.1 and Section 12.8). This ingress volume can be reduced through the management measures (as proposed in Section 7.3.2). This will result in a reduction in the current ingress volumes as well as the long-term ingress volumes.

Figure 12.1: Monthly ingress from the pit at present and anticipated ingress at the end of life of mine, assuming no mitigation (generated from figures provided in Section 12.8).

Post Closure Ingress to Underground Workings As indicated above, the mining pit forms part of the ERMB and any water collected in the base of the pit (after closure) will contribute to ingress of water into the underground workings. If mining at Pamodzi continues beyond the life of the mine operation, this becomes a concern. The reasons for ingress are described above. At the end of the life of mine, it is estimated that the ingress will be 1.023 Mℓ/day

41 (533 585m

2). As indicated previously, ingress may not occur throughout

41

Note that in response to issues raised during the public participation process, additional ingress calculations were undertaken using monthly rainfall figures, rather than annual rainfall figures. The ingress calculated using these results were slightly higher; viz. current ingress of 0.194 Mℓ/day and end of life of mine ingress of 1.176 Mℓ/day.

0.0

0.5

1.0

1.5

2.0

2.5

3.0

Ing

ress (

Ml/

day)

Current Ingress 0.42 0.34 0.35 0.11 0.06 0.01 0.01 0.02 0.06 0.21 0.33 0.41

Final Ingress 2.53 2.08 2.11 0.67 0.35 0.07 0.04 0.15 0.35 1.28 1.98 2.51

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec


the year, but predominantly during the rainy season (typically October to March) with minimal ingress during dry periods (Figure 12.1 and Section 12.8). The ingress volumes estimated would have a significant impact on the Pamodzi operation if no long-term management were implemented (according to the Pamodzi Environmental Officer), as they would have to increase their decant volumes accordingly. (It must be noted that this assumes no management measures, such as those proposed in Section 7.3.2 and Section 12.8). Flooding of the Pit If regional decanting of water from the mine void ceases during the life of the mine operation, “the mine void will flood and the natural aquifers that are currently drained can recover. This means that the West Pit 1 will become partially flooded”. Based on current inflow rates into the mine void, it is estimated that it would take approximately 12 years to flood the mining excavation. “Scott (1995) estimated that decant from the mine void will occur at an elevation of 1573mamsl. Nigel No. 3 Shaft will be the lowest decant point at an elevation of 1549mamsl. The elevation of the base of the West Pit 1 is estimated at 1450mamsl. If the groundwater level recovers to the decant elevation the West Pit 1 bottom is expected to be 123m under water.” Overall Impact Evaluation The potential impacts associated with groundwater are described below, with the significance rating of each presented on the graph above.

Impacts on the dolomitic aquifer, as a result of mining activities and / or the extraction of water from the pit. (Note that to date no water has collected in the base of the pit.)

Operational ingress – Ingress of water to underground workings during the operational phase of the mine.

Post-closure ingress – Ingress of water to underground workings after closure of the mine.

Flooding of the pit (resulting in the flooding of the underground workings) if there is no pumping within the ERMB. (Note that the stopping of pumping within the ERMB will not be as a result of activities at the mine).

There is the potential that the mine may contribute to improved groundwater quality, due to the nature of the dolomitic material improving the pH if any ingress water.

Seasonal Impacts:

The potential for impacts regarding operational ingress can only be realised during the rainy season (October to March). As no impact is realised when there is no rainfall, the impact ranking remains one of MEDIUM significance.

The potential for improved groundwater quality can only be realised during the rainy season (October to March) and if ingress occurs. As no impact is realised when there is no rainfall, the impact ranking remains one of MEDIUM significance.

Ground water

Dolomitic aquifer

Operational ingress

Post closure ingrerss

Flooding (no pumping)

Ground water quality

0

10

20

30

40

50

60

70

80

90

100

0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100

Probability

Co

ns

eq

ue

nc

een

LOW

LOW-MED

MEDIUM

MED-HIGH

HIGH


Cumulative Impacts: No cumulative impacts are considered. I&AP: Concerns regarding ingress were raised by Pamodzi, as they will be affected by this impact. These concerns were addressed in a letter from the groundwater specialist which is included in Section 12.8. Confidence ranking: As these impacts are based on the outcomes of the specialist studies, the confidence in the accuracy of this evaluation is considered high.

Fauna and Flora

Loss of Fauna and Flora On-site There are no regions within either mining area which can be considered green-fields sites as there has been extensively disturbed by previous mining activities. The vegetation on-site is described as heavily disturbed, with high prevalence of alien vegetation (Duigan, 2006; Section 12.5), offering little in the way of suitable faunal habitat (Randell, 2006; Section 12.4). Therefore, the impact on fauna and flora occurring on-site is considered to be insignificant (Randell, 2006; Section 12.4 and Duigan, 2006; Section12.5). Impact on Adjacent Habitats The Klein Blesbokspruit runs past the eastern boundary of the Mining Right area but does not flow through the area designated for mining (Section 12.19). However, the activities proposed for the mining site still have a potential to impact on the fauna and flora in this wetland system through:

Release of polluted water (stormwater containing high sediment loads) to the Klein Blesbokspruit. However it must be noted that this impact will not materialise if the Stormwater Management Plan is implemented.

Noise generated by mining activities (predominantly blasting).

Dust generated by mining activities.

Seasonal Impacts:

The potential release of sediment rich stormwater (polluted water) can only be realised during the rainy season (October to March). As no impact is realised when there is no rainfall, the impact ranking remains one of MEDIUM significance. It must also be noted that this impact will not materialise if the Stormwater Management Plan is implemented.

The impacts associated with noise may increase in significance during the faunal breeding season as noise from periodic blasting may result in some species not breeding as a result of the disturbance. Therefore, there is the potential for noise to be considered an impact of HIGH significance. However, it must be noted that the wetland adjacent to the mining are is not a known breeding site, nor a suitable breeding site for any red data bird species. In addition the Klein Blesbokspruit has been canalised (prior to the authorisation of the Mining Right), resulting in an altered ecosystem and a reduction the wetland area. Therefore, the impact, in terms of red data species, is considered to be insignificant, while having a LOW significance ranking for common species.

Fauna and flora

Water pollution

DustNoise

0

10

20

30

40

50

60

70

80

90

100

0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100

Probability

Co

ns

eq

ue

nc

een

LOW

LOW-MED

MEDIUM

MED-HIGH

HIGH


Cumulative Impacts: No cumulative impacts are considered. I&AP: No concerns were raised by I&AP. Confidence ranking: As the Klein Blesbokspruit has been canalised (prior to the authorisation of the Mining Right), the ecosystem of the wetland has already been altered. Therefore the potential impacts on the system are not on a pristine system and the confidence in the ranking of the impacts is considered to be high.

Air Quality

The information presented in this section of the report has been extracted from the “Air Quality Impact Assessment for the Mining Right Application in Brakpan”, compiled by Hanlie Liebenberg-Enslin of Airshed Planning Professionals (Pty) Ltd. A full copy of his report is attached in Section 12.9 with all references referred to in this section of the report, having been obtained from that report. In order to evaluate the air quality impacts associated with the mining operation, it is necessary to have an understanding of what the predicted PM10, TSP and subsequent dust fallout rates are. Therefore, the results from the dispersion modelling exercise have been presented in Table 12.1 followed by an explanation of the results and an evaluation of the impacts.


Table 12.1: Maximum PM10 daily concentrations (μg/m3) and dustfall rates (mg/m

2/day) due the

operational phase at the mine and the existing crushing operation (Liebenberg-Enslin, 2006).

SCENARIO POLLUTANT AVERAGING

PERIOD COMPARATIVE

LIMIT

SENSITIVE RECEPTORS

SIT

E

BO

UN

DA

RY

KIN

GS

WA

Y

RY

NS

OO

RD

NE

W

MO

DD

ER

BR

AK

PA

N

NO

RT

H

Cumulative

ALL SOURCES - Zimbiwa Resources

Mine,

- Zimbiwa Dolomite

- Background sources

PM10(1)

Highest Daily 180

(3)

539 39.42 15.3 19.23 27.7 75

(4)

Annual Average 60

(3)

183 5.80 1.4 0.73 1.2 40

(4)

TSP(2)

Total Daily Dep 600(5)

7916 508.93 318.5 275.99 508.9

Incremental

ZIMBIWA OPPERATIONS

- Zimbiwa Resources Mine,

- Zimbiwa Dolomite

PM10(1)

Highest Daily 180

(3)

539 39.40 12.9 6.70 23.5 75

(4)

Annual Average 60

(3)

182 5.60 1.1 0.41 1.1 40

(4)

TSP(2)


7811 471.81 93.2 39.53 190.8

ZIMBIWA

CRUSHER - Zimbiwa Dolomite

PM10(1)

Highest Daily 180

(3)

66 1.66 3.0 0.80 0.7 75

(4)

Annual Average 60

(3)

13 0.32 0.1 A 0.4 40

(4)

TSP(2)


1517 17.83 35.3 7.95 10.8

ZIMBIWA

TIPPING - Zimbiwa Resources

Mine

PM10(1)

Highest Daily 180

(3)

8 0.40 0.5 0.13 0.2 75

(4)

Annual Average 60

(3)

2 0.40 0.0 0.01 0.0 40

(4)

TSP(2)


195 3.85 3.9 1.08 2.7

ZIMBIWA

WIND EROSION - Zimbiwa Resources

Mine

PM10(1)

Highest Daily 180

(3)

484 0.40 11.0 6.46 22.9 75

(4)

Annual Average 60

(3)

13 0.04 0.1 0.06 0.4 40

(4)

TSP(2)


3006 188.52 64.0 32.68 165.5

ZIMBIWA

ROADS - Zimbiwa Resources

Mine

PM10(1)

Highest Daily 180

(3)

539 23.26 5.0 2.35 2.8 75

(4)

Annual Average 60

(3)

181 3.01 0.3 0.14 0.3 40

(4)

TSP(2)


7786 326.24 35.6 19.65 24.3

ZIMBIWA

INPIT - Zimbiwa Resources

Mine

PM10(1)

Highest Daily 180

(3)

33 18.14 4.8 2.47 2.6 75

(4)

Annual Average 60

(3)

4 2.23 0.4 0.16 0.3 40

(4)

TSP(2)


180 79.44 17.4 8.40 10.7

Notes: Exceedances of the SANS limits and EMM ambient air quality objectives are indicated in red. (1)

PM10 concentrations expressed as μg/m3.

(2)

TSP / Total Daily Deposition / Dust fallout expressed as mg/m2/day.

(3)

SANS limit values.

(4) Proposed new South African Standards and EMM ambient air quality objectives.

(5)

SANS residential action limit for dust fallout and EMM ambient air quality objectives.


TSP and Fugitive Dust Note that the dust fallout levels presented in Table 12.1 and discussed below are representative of the maximum total daily deposition, assuming a worst case scenario. They do not reflect the anticipated average daily dust deposition rates. When evaluating results from the mine operations, as well as the anticipated cumulative results (including the Zimbiwa operations and the background from the gold tailings), the SANS action criteria for alert

42

(>2 400mg/m2/day) is expected to be exceeded on the site boundary. However, the anticipated dust fallout

generated from the mine operations are not predicted to exceed the SANS action criteria for residential areas

43 (600mg/m

2/day) in all four residential areas. Even when the dust generated by the mine operations

is combined with the background levels generated from the gold tailings facilities, the dustfall rates in the residential areas is not predicted to exceed the SANS action criteria for residential areas. PM10 At the boundary of the mining operation, the ground level concentrations of respirable particulate dust fraction (PM10) from all sources in the area (including both mine operations and the gold tailings in the vicinity of the site) are predicted to be within non-compliance with all relevant standards and limit values. However, the predicted impacts are within compliance with the current South African standards and the stricter SANS limit values (proposed SA standards) at all four residential areas. Overall Impact Evaluation The ground level concentrations of both TSP and PM10 resulting from the mining operation have been described above and the significance of these impacts are plotted on the graph below.

Seasonal Impacts:

The impacts associated with dust (TSP and PM10 concentrations) have the potential to fluctuate seasonally, with the significance ranking increasing during the drier (May to September), windier months (August to December), when the dust generating potential increases. The significance of the impacts associated with dust will therefore vary between MEDIUM and MEDIUM-HIGH significance, depending on the climatic conditions.

Cumulative Impacts:

Considering the high measured TSP concentrations in the region (due to all the other sources), the potential for cumulative impacts increases. The significance of the impacts associated with dust (both TSP and PM10 concentrations) are therefore likely to be elevated when considered cumulatively. Dust is therefore considered to have a MEDIUM-HIGH significance ranking, depending on the baseline conditions at the time.

42

Immediate action and remediation required following the first exceedance. Incident report to be submitted to relevant authority. 43

Permissible for residential and light commercial.

Air quality

PM10 and TSP concentrations

0

10

20

30

40

50

60

70

80

90

100

0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100

Probability

Co

ns

eq

ue

nc

een

LOW

LOW-MED

MEDIUM

MED-HIGH

HIGH


I&AP: Concerns regarding dust were raised by I&AP and have been discussed at the end of this section. Confidence ranking: Based on input from the specialist studies, the confidence of the accuracy of this evaluation is high. Activity Specific Impacts Although the TSP and PM10 levels generated by the mine operations are not expected to exceed SANS in the residential areas, it is still necessary to ensure that dust generated from the mine is managed. In order to do this it is necessary to identify the most significant sources of dust from the mine operations. In order to do this, the percentage contribution that each activity makes to the total emissions has been used as a prioritisation guide (Table 12.2). Emissions from the in pit activities and from unpaved roads are the most significant sources of particulate (PM10) emissions from the mine operations, with wind erosion also contributing to TSP emissions.

Table 12.2: Ranking of sources of emissions based on their percentage contribution to emissions (adapted from Liebenberg-Enslin, 2006).

SOURCE GROUP

PERCENTAGE OF TOTAL

EMISSION RATE SOURCE RANKING

TSP PM10 TSP PM10

In pit drilling, blasting, loading and tipping 1. 47.6% 2. 56.7% 1 1

Materials Handling (out of pit loading and tipping) 3. 0.8% 4. 1.5% 5 5

Roads 5. 26.7% 6. 31.4% 2 2

Wind Erosion 7. 20.5% 8. 3.1% 3 4

Crushing and Screening 9. 4.4% 10. 7.2% 4 3

In order to illustrate the percentage contribution of these sources when considered with the current baseline conditions (TSP and PM10 from the neighbouring gold tailings facilities), the relative percentage emissions / contributions from the mine operations alone as well as in a cumulative context have been presented in Figure 12.2. When considered in terms of the cumulative effect of the mine operations with the existing baseline conditions, the percentage contribution of each activity reduces considerably.

Figure 12.2: Percentage of the total particulate emissions from the mine operations alone (crushing and mining) and from cumulative sources. (Percentages taken from Liebenberg-Enslin, 2006.)

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Perc

en

tag

e o

f to

tal

TS

P a

nd

PM

10

TSP - Zimbiwa op 47.6% 0.8% 26.7% 4.4% 20.5%

TSP - Cumulative 15% 0% 9% 1% 7% 68%

PM10 - Zimbiwa op 56.7% 1.5% 31.4% 7.2% 3.1%

PM10 - Cumulative 37% 1% 20% 5% 2% 35%

In pit Materials Handling RoadsCrushing and

Screening

Wind Erosion -

Zimbiwa sources

Wind Erosion -

Baseline sources


Concerns Raised by I&AP At the public meetings, issues were raised by I&AP regarding the health concerns associated with dolomitic dust and the relationship between dust and illnesses such as sinus, asthma and TB. It is known that inhalable dust (PM10) is associated with affecting the respiratory and cardiovascular systems and the World Health Organisation (WHO) has stated that there is increasing evidence of adverse health effects due to exposures of airborne particulate matter specifically in urban areas all over the world. However, it is important to stress that the WHO also indicates that there are no threshold level that will provide complete protection against adverse health effects of particulate matter. In order to guide the determination of impacts resulting from airborne pollutants on health, ambient air quality guidelines (associated with specific averaging periods) are set. These 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. The main concern with dolomitic dust is that it is associated with inhalable (PM10) dust fractions. The potential impact of PM10 on residents was evaluated as part of the modelling exercise. As indicated earlier in this section of the report, the PM10 concentrations and predicted impacts resulting from the operations are not considered to be significant all four surrounding communities. The predicted maximum daily (24-hour) PM10 concentrations for each of the four residential areas is not predicated to exceed 40μg/m

3 (this

includes all sources from the mine operations and the contribution from the gold tailings facilities). The current SA standard for maximum daily PM10 concentrations is 180μg/m

3, with the SANS limit being

75μg/m3 and the WHO interim target starting at 150μg/m

3 and eventual guideline of 50μg/m

3 being (no

target date provided). In all cases, the predicted PM10 concentrations in the residential areas do not exceed the available health guidelines and in fact are well below the current SA standard and the WHO interim target. However, it must be noted that this prediction is based on contributions from the mine operations and nearby gold tailings windblown dust and does not take into account other sources in the region which cannot be quantified.

Noise

The information presented in this section of the report has been extracted from the “Noise Impact Study” for the Mining Right Application, compiled by Dr Ben van Zyl of Acusolv. A full copy of his report is attached in Section 12.10, with all references referred to in this section of the report, having been obtained from that report. Definition of Noise Impacts According to van Zyl (2006), “Noise in any given environment may be experienced as disturbing or unacceptable, if either or a combination of the following conditions occur: a) If the ambient noise level (regardless of the origin or number of sources) significantly exceeds the typical or acceptable rating for the type of district under consideration; b) If a new development or any specific activity creates noise that raises the ambient level by more than a certain increment above the initial level, even if the total level is still below the so-called acceptable level.” In order to determine whether noise is considered an impact, it is necessary to either apply acceptable level criteria or noise emergence criteria.

Acceptable Level Criteria: SANS 10103 provides typical or acceptable noise levels for different types of districts. Noise levels from a new activity would then be compared to the standard and this would define whether or not the noise is disturbing or unacceptable. The applicable standards are recorded in Section 2.1.13.

Noise Emergence Criteria: Noise emergence is defined as the increase in ambient noise level above the initial level that prevailed in the area under consideration. Thus, baseline ambient figures are determined for the area under consideration, and the decision as to whether the noise from the new activity is a disturbance or not depends on how much the ambient noise level increases, and not on the noise generated directly from the new activity.

Until now, most municipal bylaws as well as the previous national noise regulations employed this principle in respect of noise impact assessment. The ambient noise levels for the areas surrounding the mining operation are recorded in Table 2.24 in Section 2.1.13. Table 12.3 lists what SANS believes the community reaction to increased ambient noise levels will be.


Table 12.3: Expected community response to an increase in ambient noise level (SANS 10103), taken from van Zyl (2006).

INCREASE IN AMBIENT LEVEL EXPECTED COMMUNITY REACTION

0 – 10dB Sporadic complaints

5 – 15dB Widespread complaints

10 – 20dB Threats of community action

More than 15dB Vigorous community action

Noise from Blasting The noise survey identifies noise from blasting as a concern. The noise generated by a blast and the propagation of this noise is dependent on a number of factors, viz. the charge, the blasting method, meteorological conditions and atmospheric temperature profiles. As no blasting (typical of those for the life of the operation) was taking place in the pit when the survey was undertaken, no reference data were available to simulate and make reliable predictions. Therefore, the noise survey did not quantify the impact form the blasts. However, monitoring of blasting that has been undertaken since the granting of the Mining Right indicates that the noise levels experienced are within the applicable standards (USBM). Noise from Day-to-Day Mining Activities The results from the noise survey show that “noise levels from new equipment and mining operations to be introduced by the development” (the mining operation) “are expected to be well below the ambient level for Urban Residential districts recommended in SANS 10103. At Kingsway, nearest to the pit, night-time noise levels produced under worst-case weather conditions for the worst-case mining configuration (excavating at surface level), will be about 4 dB below ambient level. At Rynsoord, the corresponding level will be about 10 dB below the acceptable night-time ambient level.” The survey also states that “it should be noted that, compared to existing operations, the additional operations at the processing plant for which the graphs were calculated, will be of a much smaller scale. As a result, the amounts by which new operations will elevate existing plant noise levels anywhere in the external environment turn out to be insignificant.” Overall Impact Evaluation Two sources of noise have been identified as being the cause of the impacts, viz. noise from blasting and noise from the day-to-day operational activities. The significance of the impacts resulting from these two sources is plotted on the graph below.

Seasonal and Cumulative Impacts: No seasonal or cumulative impacts are considered. I&AP: Concerns regarding noise were raised by I&AP and have been discussed at the end of this section.

Noise

Blasting

Operational noise

0

10

20

30

40

50

60

70

80

90

100

0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100

Probability

Co

ns

eq

ue

nc

een

LOW

LOW-MED

MEDIUM

MED-HIGH

HIGH


Confidence ranking: Based on input from the specialist studies and monitoring results (for blasting), the confidence of the accuracy of this evaluation is high. Concerns from I&AP: During the public meetings, particularly the meeting held in Rynsoord, the issue of noise was raised as a concern. The results from the Noise Impact Study (that focused on the mining operation) show that noise levels as a result of the mine “are expected to be well below the ambient level for Urban Residential districts recommended in SANS 10103” for day and night time levels (Section 2.1.13). However, it should be noted that the concerns raised at the meetings are linked to the crushing operation. In order to provide a brief evaluation of the noise levels associated with the crushing operation, the results of the latest off-site noise monitoring campaigns (conducted between April 2004 and March 2006) have been included (no more recent data are available). The surveys were conducted in order to establish and verify noise levels being generated by mining activities at the crushing operation and to evaluate evidence relating to complaints by the residents in respect of noise generated by mining activities. These surveys were conducted in Rynsoord and / or Brakpan North.

Conclusions Recorded in Reports Based on the conclusions in the reports, the crushing operation does not impact on Brakpan North, while noise levels are recorded in Rynsoord. However, the levels recorded are not considered to be excessive.

4th April 2004: “When drawing comparisons with the SABS Table 2 –‘Typical rating levels for ambient

noise in districts,’ there do not seem to be any grounds for the type of response received from the complainants with regards to excessive noise.”

3rd

February 2005: “The Rynsoord residents are affected by sound from the mine to some degree; although possibly not excessive it is an irritation and could result in community action as is currently being experienced. Based on noise monitoring to date, it would not appear that sound from the mine has any detrimental effect on Brakpan North.”

15th February 2005: “It would appear that under the prevailing conditions at the time of the survey,

sound generated by the mine does not have any detrimental effect on residents residing in Brakpan North.”

2nd

and 3rd

June 2005: “The Rynsoord residents are affected by sound from the mine to some degree, although possibly not excessively so. Based on noise monitoring to date, it would not appear that sound from the mine has any detrimental effect on Brakpan North.”

10th March 2006: “The continuous sound pressure levels measured would not appear to be cause for

sleepless nights to residents at Rynsoord.” Full copies of each of the reports are provided in Section 12.10 and Section 12.11.

Blasting

The impacts associated with blasting have already been evaluated under the activity specific impacts and will therefore not be re-evaluated in this section of the report.


12.4 RED DATA BIRD HABITAT ASSESSMENT.


12.5 FLORA ASSESSMENT FOR ZIMBIWA RESOURCES PROPOSED MINING AREA.


12.6 STORMWATER MANAGEMENT PLAN.


12.7 STORMWATER MANAGEMENT REPORT.


12.8 INFORMATION FROM GEOHYDROLOGICAL ASSESSMENT

12.8.1 Geohydrological Report.

12.8.2 Groundwater Letter.


12.9 AIR QUALITY IMPACT ASSESSMENT.


12.10 NOISE IMPACT STUDY.


12.11 NOISE SURVEY.


12.12 BLASTING INFORMATION.


12.13 COMMUNICATION - ERIK.


12.14 HISTORIC BLASTING REPORT.


12.15 HOUSE INSPECTION REPORT.


12.16 COMMUNICATION – BIRAN PETERS.


12.17 WULA PRE-APPLICATION.


12.18 COMMUNICATION - PATRICK.


12.19 SITE LAYOUT PLAN

Documents

MINING RIGHT HOLDER: ATOLL METAL RECOVERY (PTY) LTD A ... · Elematic SA (Pty) Ltd E, M - No issues raised - - Soil King (Pty) Ltd E, M - No issues raised - - Pronto Readymix (Pty)