Blast Management Plan

Transcription

1 for Document Page 1 of 69

2 1. Commitment and Policy Introduction Purpose and Objectives Scope ning Project Approval Requirements Environmental Protection Licence Consultation Government Authorities Neighbouring Mining Operations Implementation Blasting Mitigation Measures Surface Operations General Blasting Procedures Blast Design Blast Design Implementation Blast Tie Up Initiating the Blast (Firing) Post Blast Information and Performance Specific Blast Type Protocol Considerations Cast Blasts Pre-strip Blasts Pre-split Blasts Coal Blasts Blasts located within the Paleo Channel Meteorological Conditions Pre-Blast Weather Confirmation Adverse Weather Blasting Overpressure and Vibration Flyrock Management Fume Management Requirement for a Blast Fume Management Strategy Impacts of Fume Fume Mitigation and Management Blasting Mitigation Measures Underground Operations Ulan Underground and Ulan West Blasting Mitigation Measures Bobadeen Basalt Quarry Blasting Mitigation Measures Ancillary Infrastructure Blasting Criteria and Restrictions Blasting Criteria Blasting Restrictions European Heritage Blasting Restrictions Aboriginal Heritage Blasting Monitoring Program Blasting Monitoring Blasting Criteria Blasting Monitoring European Heritage Blasting Monitoring Aboriginal Heritage Blasting ning and Community Response Page 2 of 69

3 3.7.1 Open Cut Blast Notifications Blast Information Line Blast Notification Boards Coordination with Neighbouring Mines Community Receptor Engagement and Notification Community Engagement Community Notifications Community Complaints Property Inspections and Investigations Performance Evaluation, Emergency and Incident Management Performance Evaluation Post Blast Fume Rating Post Blast Fume Investigation Emergency Management Predicted Blast Impact Events Unpredicted Blast Impact Events Incident Reporting Reporting Training Review and Improvement Definitions Accountabilities Reference Information Change Information Appendix A - Correspondence Appendix B - Photographs of European Heritage Sites Appendix C - DP&E Fume Management Correspondence Page 3 of 69

4 1. Commitment and Policy 1.1 Introduction The Ulan Mine Complex is situated in the central west of New South Wales. It is located in the Mid- Western Regional Council (MWRC) Local Government Area (LGA) near the village of Ulan; approximately 38 kilometres north-northeast of Mudgee and 19 kilometres northeast of Gulgong (Figure 1.1). Ulan Coal Mines Limited (UCML) operates the mine as a joint venture, managed by Glencore Coal Assets Australia (GCAA). UCML owns or has long term leases over the majority of land within the project area that will be subject to mining activities and required for surface facilities. The area is primarily surrounded by rural landholdings, native bushland and primary industries including agriculture, forestry, mining (including other coal mining operations) and extractive industries. The UCML landholdings are located within the headwaters of the Goulburn and Talbragar River catchment areas. Project Approval (PA 08_0184) was issued by NSW ning and Environment (DP&E), on 15 November 2010 for continued operations. PA08_0184 authorises current and proposed mining of the Ulan Mine Complex for the next 21 years, and production of up to 20 Mtpa (million tonnes per annum) of product coal. The approval provides for an open cut and Ulan West and Ulan Underground mines to operate twenty-four hours a day, 7 days per week. Infrastructure and supporting operations include the Bobadeen Irrigation Scheme (BIS) and Bobadeen Basalt Quarry (Figure 1.2). The approval was modified as follows: Environmental Assessment: Ulan Coal Continued Operations North 1 Underground Mining Area, Minor Modification to Ulan Underground & Ulan West Mine s & Proposed Concrete Batching t (Umwelt, 2011) - (MOD1) approved 7 December 2011 Land and Environment Court final orders issued on the 5 April Ulan West Mine and Construction Blasting (Umwelt, 2012) (MOD2) approved 29 May 2012 Environmental Assessment: Ulan West Modification (southern extension) (Umwelt 2015) (MOD 3) 14 March To satisfy Condition 16, Schedule 3 of 08_0184, UCML are required to prepare and implement a Blast Management (BMP) for the project. This BMP has been developed in accordance with the conditions of consent specified in Table 1. The table summarises the requirements of UCML s various development consent conditions and the section of the BMP where the consent condition has been addressed. 1.2 Purpose and Objectives The purpose of this BMP is to: Provide relevant UCML employees and contractors with a clear and concise description of their responsibilities, regarding blasting activities required for the Project, including: Blast monitoring and evaluation; o o o o Blast criteria exceedance and reporting; Blast notification; Mitigation of blasting impacts; and Complying with blasting criteria. Address the relevant conditions of the PA 08_0184 and EPL 394. Address the relevant Statement of Commitments made within the Ulan Coal Continued Operations Environmental Assessment (EA) (Umwelt, 2009). Address key risks identified in the UCML Sustainable Development Risk Register (ULN SD ANN 0054) in accordance with ULN SD PLN 0050 (Environmental Management Strategy), and detail the necessary mitigation & management measures. Align UCML s operating philosophy with the Glencore Corporate Practice (GCP) and other corporate requirements. Page 4 of 69

5 1.3 Scope The primary objectives of the BMP are to; Monitor blast overpressure and vibration from the blasting activities within the Project area to ensure compliance with Project Approval blasting criteria and mitigate impacts to private receivers; Establish protocols for evaluating and mitigating blasting impacts on privately owned residences, surface infrastructure and culturally significant heritage sites; and Minimise potential for fume generation during blasting. The BMP applies to all employees, contractors and visitors involved in blasting activities at the Ulan Mine Complex (Figure 1 and 2), including the Ulan West Box Cut, Open Cut Extension Area, Bobadeen Basalt Quarry, Ulan Surface Operations (storage of explosives) and underground mining operations level of heading, related to main heading. Page 5 of 69

6 Figure 1.1 Locality Page 6 of 69

7 Figure 1.2 Ulan Coal Continued Operations Project Area Page 7 of 69

8 2. ning 2.1 Project Approval Requirements Table 2.1 summarises the requirements of PA 08_0184 relating to blast management and the section of the BMP where the requirement has been addressed. Table 2.2 summarises the relevant Statement of Commitments made in the EA (Umwelt, 2009) and the section of the BMP where the commitment has been addressed. Table 2.1 PA 08_0184 Requirements relating to Blast Management Condition Requirement Section 10 (Schedule 3) Blasting Criteria The Proponent shall ensure that the blasting on site does not cause exceedances of the criteria in Table 7 of PA08_0184. Section A (Schedule 3) 11 (Schedule 3) 12 (Schedule 3) 12A (Schedule 3) 13 (Schedule 3) Blasting Criteria The Proponent shall ensure that operational blasting and construction blasting on the site does not damage Heritage Sites on site. Heritage Sites can be identified in Appendix 7 of this approval. Blasting Hours The Proponent shall only carry out blasting on site between 9am and 5pm Monday to Saturday inclusive. No blasting is allowed on Sunday, public holidays, or at any other time without the written approval of the Secretary. Blasting Frequency The Proponent shall not carry out more than 1 blast a day on site, unless an additional blast is required following a blast misfire. Note: This may involve a number of explosions within a short period, typically less than two minutes Construction Blasting Hours and Frequency The Proponent shall only carry out construction blasting on site between 7am and 7pm daily where the Proponent confirms by design and prediction prior to construction blasting that the overpressure and vibration levels will be less than 95dB(A) and 1mm/sec, respectively at all private buildings. Property Inspections If the Proponent receives a written request from the owner of any privately-owned land within 2km of the approved open cut mining pit on site for a property inspection to establish the baseline condition of any buildings and/or structures on their land, or to have a previous property inspection report updated, then within 2 months of receiving the request the Proponent shall: (a) Commission a suitably qualified, experienced and independent person, whose appointment has been approved by the Secretary, to: Establish the baseline condition of the buildings and/or structures on the land or update the previous property inspection report; and Identify any measures that should be implemented to minimise the potential blasting Section 3.5 Section 3.1 Section 3.1 Section 3.4 Section 3.7 Page 8 of 69

9 14 (Schedule 3) 15 (Schedule 3) 16 (Schedule 3) impacts of the project on these buildings and/or structures; and Give the landowner a copy of the new or updated property inspection report. Property Investigations If the owner of any privately owned land claims that the buildings and/or structures on his/her land have been damaged as a result of blasting on site, then within 2 months of receiving this claim the Proponent shall; (a) (b) Commission a suitably qualified, experienced and independent person, whose appointment has been approved by the Secretary, to investigate the claim; and Give the landowner a copy of the property investigation report. If this independent property investigation confirms the landowner s claim, and both parties agree with these findings, then the Proponent shall repair the damages to the satisfaction of the Secretary. If the Proponent or landowner disagrees with the findings of the independent property investigation, then either party may refer the matter to the Secretary for resolution. Operating Conditions The Proponent shall (a) (b) (c) Implement best blast management practice on site to: Protect the safety of people and livestock in the surrounding area; Protect public or private property in the surrounding area; and\ Minimise the dust and fume emissions of the blasting Co-ordinate the blasting on site with the blasting at the Moolarben and Wilpinjong mines to minimise the cumulative blasting impacts of the mines; and Operate a suitable system to enable the public to get up to date information on the proposed blasting schedule on site, to the satisfaction of the Secretary. The Proponent shall prepare and implement a for the project to the satisfaction of the Secretary. This plan must: (a) (b) (c) (d) (e) be prepared in consultation with EPA and Council, and submitted to the Secretary for approval within 3 months of the date of final Orders being made by the Land and Environment Court in proceedings No of 2010; describe the blast mitigation measures that would be implemented to ensure compliance with conditions of this schedule; describe the measures that would be implemented to ensure the public can get up-todate information on the proposed blasting schedule on site; include a blast monitoring program to evaluate the performance of the project; and include a protocol that has been prepared in consultation with the owners of the Moolarben and Wilpinjong mines for minimising and managing the cumulative blasting impacts of the mines. Section 3.7 Section 3.1 Section 2.3 and Section 3.1 Section 3.7 Section Section 3.1 Section Section 3.7 Section Table 2.2 Statement of Commitments relating to Blast Management Condition Commitment Section UCML will continue to implement existing dust controls, including: watering of active mining areas, active spoil emplacement areas and haul roads that are subject to frequent vehicle movements; all drill rigs are equipped with dust control systems and are regularly maintained for effective use; automatic sprays fitted to dump hopper and crushing plant to minimise dust from coal processing activities; topsoil stripping is preferentially undertaken when there is sufficient moisture Section Page 9 of 69

10 content in the soil; minimising the area of disturbance by restricting vegetation clearing ahead of mining operations, rehabilitating mine spoil dumps as soon as practicable after mining and using existing facilities and infrastructure where possible; and restricting blasting activities during adverse weather conditions UCML will design and undertake blasts to ensure the relevant vibration and blast overpressure criteria are met at private residences, unless there is an agreement with these residents in relation to blast impacts above the relevant criteria UCML will consult with residents surrounding the project area prior to the first blast on site and identify those residents that may wish to be notified of blasting times on an ongoing basis Minor blasts such as that associated with small scale construction projects i.e. construction of ventilation shafts will not be limited in terms of frequency or require monitoring where UCML confirms by design and prediction prior to blasting that the overpressure and vibration levels will be less than 95dBL and 1 mm/sec at all private buildings or structures. Section Section Section Environmental Protection Licence 394 Table 3 summarises the requirements of EPL 394 relating to blast management and the section of the BMP where the requirement has been addressed. Table EPL 394 Conditions relating to Blast Management Condition Requirement Section L6 Blasting Section 4.1 L6.1 L6.2 L6.3 L6.4 L6.5 L6.6 L6.7 L6.8 Blasting at the premises is limited to 1 blast per day, unless an additional blast is required following a blast misfire. Operational blasting in or on the premises must only be carried out between 9 am and 5 pm, Monday to Saturday. Operational blasting in or on the premises must not take place on Sundays or Public Holidays without the prior approval of the EPA. Construction blasting shall only be carried out at the premises between 7am and 7pm daily where the overpressure and vibration levels are designed and predicted to not exceed 95 db(a) and 1mm/sec respectively at all privately owned buildings. Operational blasting is defined as a blast which is associated with mining activities such overburden and coal blasts and includes blasting which is associated with quarrying activities Construction blasting is defined as a blast associated with the construction of mining infrastructure The airblast overpressure level from blasting operations at the premises must not exceed 115dB (Lin Peak) at any noise sensitive locations for more than five per cent of the total number of blasts over each reporting period. Error margins associated with any monitoring equipment used to measure this are not to be taken into account in determining whether or not the limit has been exceeded. The airblast overpressure level from blasting operations at the premises must not exceed 120dB (Lin Peak) at any time at any noise sensitive locations. Error margins associated with any monitoring equipment used to measure this are not to be taken into account in determining whether or not the limit has been exceeded. Ground vibration peak particle velocity from the blasting operations at the premises must not exceed 5mm/sec at any noise sensitive locations for more than five per cent of the total number of blasts over each reporting period. Error margins associated with any monitoring equipment used to measure this are not to be taken into account in determining whether or not the limit has been exceeded. Ground vibration peak particle velocity from the blasting operations at the premises must not exceed 10mm/sec at any time at any noise sensitive locations. Error margins associated with any monitoring equipment used to measure this are not to be taken into Section 3.1 Page 10 of 69

11 account in determining whether or not the limit has been exceeded. Note: 1. The airblast overpressure and ground vibration levels in conditions L6.3 to L6.6 do not apply at noise sensitive locations that are owned by the licensee or subject to a private agreement, relating to airblast overpressure and ground vibration levels, between the licensee and land owner. 2. "Noise sensitive locations" includes buildings used as a residence, hospitals, school, child care centres, places of public worship and nursing homes. A noise sensitive location includes the land within 30 metres of the building. M8 Blast Section 3.5 To determine compliance with condition(s) L6.3 to L6.6: a) Airblast overpressure and ground vibration levels experienced at the following noise sensitive locations must be measured and recorded for all surface blasts carried out on the premises; i. Ulan Public School, Ulan; and M8.1 b) Instrumentation used to measure and record the airblast overpressure and ground vibration levels must meet the requirements of Australian Standard AS Note: A breach of the licence will still occur when airblast overpressure or ground vibration levels from the blasting operations at the premises in excess of the limit specified in condition L6.3 to L6.6 are detected at any "noise sensitive locations" other than the locations identified in the above condition. Section Consultation Government Authorities In accordance with Condition 16, Schedule 3 of PA 08_0184, consultation is undertaken with the DP&E, Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) and Mid-Western Regional Council (MWRC). On the 24 March 2014, UCML received correspondence from NSW ning and Environment (DP&E) regarding a requirement to include a fume management strategy within the BMP. A revised BMP, incorporating the fume management strategy was submitted, a review was held at site and the BMP was re-submitted, further feedback is incorporated in this revised plan including; Increased level of detail relating to the Paelo Channel and site specific fume management measures; Alignment of fume management considerations to AEISG Code of Practice; Inclusion of responsibilities associated with fume management measures; Inclusion of proactive notification to community receptors of blast / fume incident response procedures; Inclusion of BMP amendment commitments for Bobadeen quarry; Increased clarity on blast Monitoring for heritage sites; Changes relating to blast emergency procedures; Increasing level of detailed relating to blast emergency procedures; and Inclusion of a regular performance review process. This revised BMP will be provided to EPA and MWRC with re-submission to the DP&E. A revision history is provided in Section Neighbouring Mining Operations During the preparation of the original BMP (ULN SD EXT 0092), consultation was undertaken with Moolarben Coal Mine (MCM), Wilpinjong Coal Mine (WCM) and Ulan No.3 Underground to develop a protocol to manage the cumulative effects of blasting and provide appropriate notification of pending blasts. Consultation with adjacent residents regarding implementation of the BMP is documented in Section 3.7 Page 11 of 69

12 3. Implementation 3.1 Blasting Mitigation Measures Surface Operations General All blasting activities will be conducted in accordance with Conditions 10 to 16, Schedule 3 of PA 08_1084 and UCML s EPL 394. The following management and mitigation measures will be implemented to ensure compliance with PA 08_0184 and EPL 394 conditions and to minimise the impacts from blasting activities. These include, but are not limited to: Review meteorological data prior to blasting, giving consideration to wind speed and direction. Consideration of watering blast area prior to loading of shots to suppress dispersion of fine and dry material. Coordination of blasting schedule with neighbouring Moolarben, Wilpinjong mines, Ulan No.3 Underground and Ulan West Operations. Update the Community Information Line. Contact all persons registered on the UCML Blast Notification Register. Review Blasting Checklist. Schedule all operational blasts in accordance within the approved; o Operational blasting times i.e. only between 9am and 5pm, Monday to Saturday with no blast to occur on Sundays and/or public holidays; and o Blasting frequency i.e. not more than one blast a day. Construction blasts between 7am and 7pm daily where design and predictions prior to construction blasting confirms that overpressure and vibration levels will be less than 95dB(A) and 1mm/sec, respectively at all private buildings. Employ the following blast design considerations, including: o Electronic blasting techniques; o Model Maximum Instantaneous Charge (MIC) in consideration of predicted impacts; o o Timing of blast (initiation sequence, timing and direction); and Drilling and loading techniques. Management of explosives at USO are managed and handled in accordance with the USO Explosives and Shotfiring Management (USO SD PLN 0018). o o o No explosives are stored on the USO site. Explosives are stored offsite by Orica Mining Services. During times of loading, explosives and detonators are stored in separate compartments in a compliant Orica vehicle authorised to carry explosives. Any vehicle holding explosives on site shall be under supervision of an appointed shotfirer or explosives handler at all times. Video monitoring of all blasts for operational and environmental review purposes Blasting Procedures Blasts fired at UCML will be undertaken in accordance with this and site operational Blasting Procedures. Blasting procedures that relate to the management and minimisation of blasting impacts are summarised in Table 3.1. Page 12 of 69

13 Table Blast Considerations Checklist USO MIN PRO 0052 Blast Design USO MIN PRO 0003 Loading and Stemming Blast Holes USO MIN PRO 0084 Post Blast Fume USO MIN FRM 0005 Blast Summary Form USO MIN PRO 0064 Blasting in Hot and/or Reactive Ground Drill Pattern Design Loading Blasting Considerations Tie-In Design Environmental Considerations Compliance Criteria Use of the fume management and mitigation guide to assist the design process Explosive product selection Wet*/Dry blast holes Geological conditions Weather forecasts Quality assurance on drilling/bench preparation Timing of detonators Blast Hole Layout Bench Preparation Blast Hole Layout Priming Charging Stemming Sensitive Sites Contributing Factors and Mitigation Measures Post Blast Fume Rating Fault Tree Analysis Recording and Reporting Emergency Response and Exposure Management Shot details Environmental Factors Blast Monitoring Blast Results Hot and/or Reactive Ground Indicators Testing Observations Drilling Procedure *Note: a hole that has been affected by surface or dynamic water will be considered wet if water cannot be removed and as such requires the use of an emulsion based explosive product Blast Design Blast design is considered a critical control for mitigating blast impacts. Blast design at UCML will be developed to consider: Geological constraints such as weak or hard bands of overburden, weathered strata, coal bands and faults. Blast performance requirements in terms of fragmentation, heave, dig rates, etc. Control of potential blast impacts including flyrock, fume, overpressure, vibration etc. During blast design, consider techniques to minimise blast impacts including limit MIC, adequacy of stemming, implementing delayed detonation system, drilling and hole loading procedures. Consider reducing the powder factor or modifying the timing or depth of a blast. Identify potential for excessive confinement. Page 13 of 69

14 Consideration of relevant factors; reinforcement, arrival times at sensitive sites and charge weights. Blast design control measures are summarised below, further details of blast design controls are documented in the procedures identified in Section 9, Table 11. Survey Control Initial blast designs are produced using recent survey and/or 3D geological modelling with specialised modelling (Vulcan computer software) to define the limits and location of the blast pattern. Increasing the control on deeper designs/ GPS drilling assist. Explosives Selecting explosives products appropriate to the blast design, ground conditions, geology and expected weather conditions. Following manufacturer's recommendations on the compatibility of initiating systems with explosives and sleeping time. Stemming Height Blast design will provide for adequate stemming to minimise the chance of flyrock and overpressure exceedances. Stemming Material Quality aggregate will be used to stem blast holes to provide enhanced confinement to prevent stemming ejection and/or cratering. Face Burden Blast holes shall be designed to provide adequate burden to prevent face bursts, reducing the possibility of flyrock and airblast overpressure. Where necessary face surveying techniques may be employed to measure overburden between the blast face and blast holes to ensure sufficient burden is present to prevent face bursts. Blast Hole Length / Depth Where risk of exceeding blasting criteria and restrictions, the following controls are considered; o o o o o Blast Hole Inclination Reduce depth of blast drilling to specific RL; Reducing diameter of the blasthole; Reducing bench heights or ensuring adequate relief in deep holes; Providing appropriate separation of explosive decks; or Consideration of decking blast holes. Designs will clearly define hole inclination to mitigate the possibility of flyrock by providing adequate face burden. Detonation Sequence Simulation Blast designs are modelled prior to firing to take into account industry norms and previously established standards for the site. The modelling assesses overpressure and vibration arrival times for individual sites of concern such as the external blast monitoring locations BM1 and BM3. Where required, modelling results are reviewed by an external consultant before firing. Fume Prediction Calculation and Escalation Blast design information is used as inputs to complete blast fume probability calculation for each blast. Fume generation potential is identified during blast design processes. If fume generation potential is likely to produce a Category 3 Fume event or above, the Environment and Page 14 of 69

15 Community Manager (or delegate) is to be notified. The (or delegate) will initiate the Emergency Management (Predicted Blast Impact Events) process, see Section Maximum Instantons Charge Blast design is developed in consideration of the 3000kg MIC predictive modelling limit in the Noise and Vibration Assessment in the EA (Umwelt, 2009). Where blast design requires a higher MIC predictive modelling will be completed prior to blasting and approval from the Operations Manager and the Blast Design Implementation There are several important steps undertaken at UCML to ensure blast design is implemented correctly in the field to minimise blast impacts. The Drill and Blast Engineer (D&B Engineer) (or delegate) is responsible for carrying out the correct procedures when implementing each blast design; these include, but are not limited to: Drill Preparation The area for the proposed drill pattern is cleaned and then inspected by the D&B Engineer (or delegate) prior to the setting out of the drill pattern. Drill Pattern Set Out Drill patterns are uploaded into GPS guidance systems on drills. Where GPS guidance systems are not used, UCML survey department are provided with the coordinates of the designed drill pattern and this is set out in the field using GPS technology and traditional survey techniques. Drill Blast Holes Daily records are kept by the UCML Drill Operators or contractors documenting hole depths and anomalies in the predicted geology. This information is then utilised by the D&B Engineer to ensure the holes are not over drilled. Survey Control Where planned face holes are unable to be set out in the correct location the surveyors provide the adducted positions back to the D&B Engineer to modify the design. Blast Hole Dipping Blast holes are dipped to test their depth and identify for the possible presence of water. This information is then used by the D&B Engineer to calculate the explosive quantities per hole and make any modifications as required. Where any trace of water is recorded a suitable water resistant bulk explosive is assigned to the hole/s to minimise the generation of fume. Where possible holes that have a small amount of standing water at the bottom of the hole are sealed off with a gas bag just above the water level to isolate the explosives from the water. Where holes are found to be completely filled with water, holes are hose loaded from the base of the hole. Blast Pack The field data is used by the D&B Engineer to produce load sheets which stipulate the quantity, type of the explosives and stemming to be use, numbering and length of decks. The load sheets are printed off and used by the shotfirer to load each hole specific to the requirements of the loadsheets. Actual kilograms of explosive loaded is captured on the load sheet, including top ups. Where possible blasts are designed to ensure the prompt loading of drill holes and subsequent firing of the shot to minimise sleep time and exposure to moisture. Page 15 of 69

16 3.1.5 Blast Tie Up There are several important steps undertaken at USO during the blast tie-up stage, these include, but are not limited to: Blast Tie Up A 'Tie Up is incorporated in the blast pack with the D&B Engineer, detailing the method for timing and firing the Shot. The Tie Up is provided to the Shot Firer for implementation. Upon completion of the Tie Up, the Shot Firer in conjunction with the Blast Controller carries out the Shot Firing Procedure prior to detonating the shot. Consideration for reinforcement, vibration, overpressure and arrival times at sensitive sites. Blast Exclusion Zones An appropriate exclusion zone for UCML personnel, contractors and community receptors will be established around each blast site prior to firing a blast. The exclusion zone will be established beyond the expected range of any fly rock with an additional safety margin. The establishment of this zone will minimise the risk of any exposure to people or livestock. Fly rock generated by blasting, with the potential to cause a safety risk will be noted for each blast. This information will be used to continually re-assess the adequacy of blast design controls in reducing the generation of fly rock. The information will also be used to re-assess the size of the safety exclusion zone established for people and livestock in the vicinity of a blast. If fume generation is identified, the D&B Engineer will modify the exclusion zone in consideration of meteorological conditions downwind from the blast to minimise the chance of exposure to UCML personnel, contractors and community receptors Initiating the Blast (Firing) There are several important steps undertaken at UCML prior to initiating the blast to mitigate potential impacts, these include, but are not limited to; Confirm stakeholders have been notified via the appropriate media, 24 hours prior to the scheduled blast time. Confirm with neighbouring mines there is no conflict with blasting time. Complete Blast Sign Off Authorisation to be signed by the Drill and Blast engineer, Technical Services Superintendent and Mining Manager prior to the blast following their review of blast design, pattern tie up, blast audit sheets and load charts, modelled/estimated vibration and overpressure at monitoring locations, estimated fume and fly rock predictions and weather forecast information, including wind direction. 1 Confirm the real time blast monitors, for capture of vibration and overpressure, are online with status OK. Identify the nominated surface and heritage sites that require vibration and overpressure monitoring and arrange the placement of monitors if there is no permanent monitor in place. Ensure all operational blasting is scheduled between the hours of 9am to 5pm Monday to Saturday, with only one blast scheduled per day. No blasting is permitted on Sundays or Public Holidays. Ensure construction blasts are between 7am and 7pm daily where design and predictions prior to construction blasting confirms that overpressure and vibration levels will be less than 95dB(A) and 1mm/sec, respectively at all private buildings. One Scheduled Blast per day is defined as A Blast may involve a number of explosions within a short period of time, typically less than two minutes. Assess and record the weather conditions on the day to determine risk of blast criteria exceedance; Ready two cameras at varying focus angles to capture blast fume / dust events. 1 Blast Design (USO MIN PRO 0052) Page 16 of 69

17 Confirm blast sentries are in position to exclude all non-authorised persons from entering the blast exclusion zone Post Blast Information and Performance There are several important steps undertaken at USO following each blast, these include, but are not limited to: Record all blast monitoring data; Analyse blast monitoring data against the Blast Design Parameters; Analyse blast monitoring data against the Project Approval criteria (Overpressure/Vibration); Download video of blast and rate fume generation; Feed findings back into blast design processes; Document the above in relevant database and file locations; Upload blast monitoring results to website within 14 days of receiving, and; Initiate notification/response and investigation if there is a blast exceedance and/or community complaint Specific Blast Type Protocol Considerations The following steps are completed by the Drill & Blast Engineer during specific blast types to minimise the potential for fume generation and optimise blast performance Cast Blasts Cast blasts are large shots using approximately 1000 tonne of bulk explosive and taking around two weeks to load. To manage the risk of fume generation for cast blasts the following specific activities are undertaken; Product Selection is determined using a risk based approach; o o o Holes containing >1m of water (Wet Holes) are loaded with water resistant emulsion products (an example of an emulsion product is Fortis ); Product is chosen based on specific density requirements; Holes containing a small amount of water (< 1m) will have a gas bag placed on the top of the water column and should then be loaded with a heavy ANFO product (an example of a heavy ANFO product is Aquacharge treated as a de-watered hole); and Areas subject to high risk of ground water ingress (areas adjacent to the paleo-channel) (Wet Holes) are applied a buffer zone and loaded with water resistant products. Loading Practises o Weather forecasts are assessed to identify potential for rainfall; Pre-strip Blasts o o o o Where product is to be loaded into a column of water it shall be hose loaded from the base of the drill hole/deck; Bulk product is generally not augur loaded (top loaded) into a column of water, regardless of the level of water resistance of the product in question; Sleep times for the products being used shall be managed in accordance with manufacturer s recommendations taking into account accelerated deterioration of explosive products due to ground conditions as far as is reasonably practicable; and Shot sizes and loading schedules are developed in consideration of poor weather, product supply, equipment breakdown to minimise sleep time issues. Typically pre-strip blasts will follow some degree of pre-stripping with dozers, blasting only competent rock. To manage the risk of fume generation for pre-strip blasts the following specific activities are undertaken; Product selection and loading processes should follow the same methodology as cast blasts. Page 17 of 69

18 Where pre-stripping is not completed, additional consideration of issues associated with blasting weathered material is factored into blast designs and loading practises. Where pre-strip blasts may be subject to excessive face burdens, initiation timing should allow for sufficient burden relief Pre-split Blasts Pre-split blasts constitute a fume generation risk at UCML due to both the depth of blast holes and the propensity to accumulate groundwater. To manage the risk of fume generation for pre-split blasts the following specific activities are undertaken; Coal Blasts Pre-splits at USO are loaded with one to three explosive decks, depending on hole depth. Regardless of the number of decks to be loaded the bottom deck shall be loaded with a water resistant emulsion, where water is present, the deck shall be loaded using a hose from the bottom of the hole to ensure any water present is displaced and not entrained in the explosive column. Explosive columns should be separated by no less than 2.5m or as directed by the explosive supplier in areas such as endwalls and corners to minimise dynamic desensitisation. Following a presplit blast, the presplit line should be ripped and track rolled using a bulldozer to minimise water ingress into the area. Areas identified as being at risk of water damage from the presplit line should be loaded with an emulsion product. The majority of coal shots at USO are designed to be loaded and fired within 24 hours. To manage the risk of fume generation for pre-split blasts the following specific activities are undertaken; Coal shots should be loaded using the same methodology as cast blasts, however, with a lower tolerance for sleeping shots. Particular attention should be given to weather forecasts during the planning of coal shots due to the increased risk of inundation. If there is a risk of inundation, holes shall be loaded with a waterproof emulsion product Blasts located within the Paleo Channel Blasts conducted within the area of the Paleo Channel (Figure 3.1) constitute a fume generation risk at UCML due to the presence of alluvium deposits consisting of interbedded clays, sandy clays and sandy gravels and sand. To manage the risk of fume generation for pre-split blasts the following specific activities are undertaken: Application of a buffer area on either side of the Paleo-Channel zone to assist in water displacement. Consideration of blast sizing and potential for increased frequency, decreased size options. Delaying drilling of holes within and immediately adjacent to this zone to mitigate hole collapse and water ingress. Drill holes treated as a wet hole. For the purpose of loading activities, dry holes are drill holes with a complete absence of water, including water pooled in the blast holes or damp drill hole column (ANFO or Heavy ANFO). Wet holes are any holes that do not meet the above definition of a dry hole (water resistant Emulsion). However, explosive usage will be modified as required to reflect the degree of water resistance required. Page 18 of 69

19 Figure 3.1 USO Paleo Channel Extent Page 19 of 69

20 3.1.9 Meteorological Conditions A preliminary assessment of meteorological conditions for the blast area is conducted the day before or morning of the blast. This assessment is completed using the following predictive tools; SKM Environmental Forecasting Blast simulation: This tool is used to determine the likely extent of dust and Fume plume dispersion and drift. The date, time, location and blast area in metres square are entered into the simulation tool which creates a moving image of the scale of dust risk over the site aerial at one minute intervals for a 30 minute period, refer to Figure 3.2 below. Figure 3.2 SKM Environmental Forecasting Blast Simulations Daily Weather Forecast: This tool is used to predict prevailing weather conditions and the subsequence noise, dust and weather risks that are likely to exist in the absence of blasting activities, refer to Figure 3.3, below. Page 20 of 69

21 Figure 3.3 SKM Daily Weather Forecast The output of the predictive tools is used to inform the preliminary meteorological assessment (preblast) which is subject to an approval process that includes relevant site personnel, which may include signoff by the Drill and Blast engineer, Technical Services Superintendent and Mining Manager Pre-Blast Weather Confirmation Meteorological conditions, including wind speed and direction and stability class, will be assessed by the Blast Controller periodically throughout the course of the day leading up to the scheduled time of the blast. Meteorological information will be accessed via the real time weather data from Weather Station 1. Pre-Blast review of meteorological conditions is triggered by the Blast Sign-Off Authorisation. Shots will generally not be fired during adverse weather conditions, unless for safety reasons or to minimise further deterioration of the explosive product. Page 21 of 69

22 Table 3.2 Unfavourable Meteorological conditions Zone 1 Wind Speed >2m/s blowing From direction (S WSW) Operational Impact Zone 2 Wind Speed >8m/s blowing From direction (WSW NW) Operational Impact Zone 3 Wind Speed >8m/s blowing From direction (N S) Community Impact All Zones Class F inversion In the event that the pre-blast weather conditions observed meets the Unfavourable Meteorological Condition Criteria, detailed in Table 3.2, the blast event is not to proceed. A Wind Direction Indicator is provided in the daily forecast (Figure 3.3) Adverse Weather Blasting In the event that Unfavourable Meteorological Conditions, as per Table 5, are observed the blast coordinator (or delegate) will liaise with USO Operations Manager (or delegate) and the Environment and Community Manager (or delegate). If delaying blasting may result in exacerbation of operational and/or community hazards, including further deterioration of the explosive product, the following risk based process is to be followed; Notification of (or delegate), USO Technical Services Superintendent, USO Operations Manager and relevant Ulan Underground or Ulan West Operations Managers; Review of blast design, modelling outputs, weather forecast tools and fume prediction; Review of Weekly weather forecast; Identification and assessment of likely consequences for delaying blasting hours; Identification and assessment of likely consequences for delaying blasting shifts; Identification and assessment of likely consequences of blasting during adverse weather conditions; Identification and execution of controls to manage consequences of determined outcome; and Potential interactions or triggers of the Ulan Pollution Incident Response Management. Following this process, a decision will be made by the (or delegate) and USO Operations Manager (or delegate) using a risk based determination Overpressure and Vibration As discussed in Section 3.1.9, a pre-blast meteorological assessment will be completed periodically throughout the course of the day leading up to the scheduled time of the blast. Under certain meteorological conditions, the air blast overpressure and vibration levels may be influenced due to; Temperature inversion; Wind speed; and/or Wind direction. In the event that unfavourable meteorological conditions, such as wind strength and direction are observed prior to the blast, the Adverse Weather Blasting procedure will be enacted (Section ). To maintain compliance with overpressure and vibration criteria (Section 3.5), the following mitigation measures will be implemented: Use of experienced personnel to design each blast; Use of adequate, suitable stemming lengths to ensure maximum confinement of explosive charges minimising overpressure and flyrock; A pre-blast meteorological assessment; Provide for sufficient burden to be present to prevent face bursts; Adherence to blast loading and initiation designs; D&B Engineer to produce load sheets which stipulate the quantity of the explosives and stemming to be placed in each hole to achieve the designed powder factor; and Page 22 of 69

23 Use of blast monitoring data to refine predictive modelling for input into future blast designs Flyrock Management Mitigation measures to manage flyrock include: Implementing appropriate blast exclusion zones for each blast event. The blast exclusion zone considers the expected range of any fly rock with an additional safety margin that reduces the risk for damage to UCML owned property, equipment or other infrastructure from flyrock. Landholdings are to be security patrolled, fenced, sign posted and also provide a sufficient buffer between neighbouring private landholders and their livestock from blasting activities. All designs will clearly identify hole inclination to avoid the possibility of reduced face burden, thus avoiding the potential for flyrock incidents. Any unusual level of flyrock generated by blasting with the potential to cause a safety risk will be noted for each blast. This information will be used to continually re-assess both the adequacy of blast design controls in reducing the generation of flyrock as well as the size of the safety exclusion zone established for people and livestock in the vicinity of a blast Fume Management Requirement for a Blast Fume Management Strategy DP&E require (Appendix 3) preparation of a blast fume management strategy and that mines rate and record blast fume for each blast undertaken Impacts of Fume Fume is the group of gases known as Oxides of Nitrogen or NOx, a combination of post blast gases which are predominantly nitrogen dioxide, but may also include small amounts of nitrous oxide, nitric oxide, carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide. The two main gases, nitric oxide (NO) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2) are often found as by-products in the post-blast gases of ammonium nitrate-based explosives. Nitric oxide is invisible, but nitrogen dioxide ranges from yellow to dark red / purple depending on the concentration and size of the gas cloud. These gases are harmful to humans if inhaled in large quantities Fume Mitigation and Management Fume generation can widely be attributed to 6 circumstances that, either singularly or combined, can be managed to minimise or mitigate the production of NOx: 2 Explosive formulation and quality assurance. Geological conditions. Blast Design. Explosive product selection. On-Bench Practices. Contamination of explosive in the blast hole. While other factors such as meteorological conditions, storage of bulk products, Sleep Time, Training and Reporting are contributing factors, the six listed above are considered to be the primary causes in accordance with the AEISG Code of Practice. To assist the fume risk management processes, a site specific fume management and mitigation guide outlining typical issues, causes and controls associated with blast fume has been developed, this guide will be used to assist with the completion of the Blast Sign Off Authorisation 3. A summary of some of the information contained in the guide is shown in Table Nitrogen oxides (NOx) consist of nitric oxide (NO), nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and nitrous oxide (N2O) and are formed when nitrogen (N2) combines with oxygen (O2); they may be produced as a by-product of the blast firing and are described as blast fume. 3 Blast Design (USO MIN PRO 0052) Page 23 of 69

24 Table 3.3 Fume Mitigation and Management Cause 1: Explosive Quality Potential Cause Likely Indicators Control Measures Responsibilities Explosive product incorrectly formulated Precursor delivered to mine site out of specification Inadequate mixing of raw materials Product past use by date All blasts and all locations utilising a specific explosive product / loading system Traceable to a precursor which has degraded between manufacture and use Poor blast Performance NOx emitted from blast holes loaded from a specific delivery system Product appearance abnormal Difficulty achieving final density Separation Crystallising Fines Colour variation Poor blast performance Explosives formulated to an appropriate oxygen balance to minimise the likelihood of post- blast fume. Explosives supplier to test formulations where any change in ingredients. Explosives/Precursor supplier to provide relevant Technical Data Sheets and Manufacturing directions. Batch Testing Investigate with supplier of explosive precursors. Expiry Date On bench density checks, Inspection and Testing as per suppliers contract Reporting on Testing as required Visual check. Density check. Ensure compliance with supplier s/manufacturer s instructions. MMU Calibrations conducted by explosive supplier Testing to ensure the product is within the manufacturers specification i.e. ph, density, viscosity Rejection of out-of-spec product Failure to conduct quality tests Incomplete documentation/ practices Conduct observations to ensure compliance with procedures. All blast crew to be trained in the potential consequences of failing to ensure the characteristics of the product loaded. Explosive Supplier Explosive Supplier Shotfirer Explosive Supplier Shotfirer Explosive Supplier Drill and Blast Engineer Shotfirer D&B Engineer 14/11/2019 Page 24 of 69

25 Cause 2: Geological Conditions Potential Cause Likely Indicators Control Measures Responsibilities Lack of relief in weak/soft strata. Inadequate confinement. Dynamic water in holes Explosive product seeping into cracks In specific areas known to contain weak/soft strata e.g. Paleo Channel only In the event observations indicate water ingress following loading, (slumped blast holes) In specific areas known to contain a high incidence of faulted/ fractured ground or where ground is tightly jointed and susceptible to fracturing and slumping. Understand geology of each shot and design blast (timing and explosive product) to ensure adequate relief. Minimise blast size and depth. Appropriate explosives product selection. Change design to suit conditions. Minimise or eliminate sleep time of shot. Measure recharge rates if dewatering, and choose explosive products according to manufacturer s recommendations. Record slumped holes and use this information to build understanding of pit hydrology. Maintenance of accurate drill records which are used to map geological conditions. Record and monitor blast holes which are slumped or require excessive explosive product to reach stemming height, but where water is not present. Minimise Sleep Time Moisture in clay In clay strata or strata with high clay content Consider water resistant explosive products and how this may impact sleep time. Blast hole wall deterioration between drilling and loadinge.g. cracks, voids, holecontraction Traceable to specific geological areas Minimise time between drilling and loading. Use hole savers. Ensure benches are unaffected by back-break from earlier blasts affected pre-splits. Mine Geologist Drill and Blast Engineer Shotfirer Drill and Blast Engineer Geologist Drill Operators Shotfirer Drill and Blast Engineer Drill and Blast Engineer Geologist Drill Operators Drill and Blast Engineer Page 25 of 69

26 Cause 3: Blast Design and Cause 4: Product Selection Potential Cause Likely Indicators Control Measures Responsibilities Inter-hole explosive desensitisation Intra-hole explosive desensitisation in decked blast holes Explosive desensitisation due to the blast hole depth Inappropriate priming and/or placement Excessive confinement (Incorrect Timing and Pattern Design) Desensitisation of explosive column from in-hole detonating cord initiation Primer of insufficient strength to initiate explosive column Failure to identify potential causes of fume generation Explosives product selected not suitable for the prevailing ground conditions (water, rock mass strength) Non water-resistant explosive products loaded into wet or dewatered holes Excessive energy in weak/ soft strata desensitising adjacent explosive product columns Blast holes drilled too close together Blast hole deviation Inconsistent blast performance When using decks only Inconsistent blast Performance Poor blast performance Residue product Inconsistent blast performance Specific to blasts known to be confined No free face present Excessive powder factor Only in areas where in-hole cord initiation is used Inconsistent blast performance Coal Shots All blasts using a particular primer type/ size Poor blast performance Inexperienced Designers Inadequate analysis or records Poor blast performance Blasts containing wet/ dewatered blast holes only In specific areas known to contain weak/soft strata Reduce bench height or ensure adequate relief in deep holes. Product selection. Increased control on deeper designs/ GPS drilling to assist verification of planned versus actual Review product selection, adjusting for actual drilling. Appropriate separation of explosive decks. Initiator timing. Reduce bench height. Ensure adequate relief in deep holes. Follow manufacturer s recommendations on explosive product selection and blast design for deep holes i.e. decking where appropriate. Follow manufacturer s recommendations on explosive product initiation. Secondary Booster (redundancy) Understand geology of each shot and design blast (timing and explosive product). Consider incorporation of a free face, reduction of powder factor, modified timing, depth of blast. Use of relief plots Follow manufacturer's recommendations on compatibility of initiating systems with explosives. Follow manufacturer's recommendations on compatibility of initiating systems with explosives. Competency and Authorisation process (Mine Manager Sign-off) Use of a Blast Sign Off Authorisation process. Follow manufacturer s recommendations on explosive product application. Review of the site design Consideration of previous blasts. Follow manufacturer s recommendations on explosive product selection. Regular education of shot crew on explosive product recommendations from supplier. Discipline in on-bench practices. Weather forecasts to be obtained and considered. Wet product used where appropriate Understand geology of each shot and design blast (timing and explosive product) to match, e.g. reduction of powder factor. Review geotechnical reports (Annual, Strip and Special Cause) Drill Operator Drill and Blast Engineer Drill and Blast Engineer Drill and Blast Engineer Drill and Blast Engineer Drill and Blast Engineer Geologist Drill and Blast Engineer Drill and Blast Engineer Drill and Blast Engineer Drill and Blast Engineer Shotfirer Shotfirer Drill and Blast Engineer Tech Services Superintendent Drill and Blast Engineer Geologist Tech Services Superintendent Page 26 of 69

27 Cause 5: On-Bench Practices Potential Cause Likely Indicators Control Measures Responsibilities Hole condition incorrectly identified Slumping of holes Unexpected material in drill cuttings Dipping Records: Establish timeframes between drilling and loading and correlate to drill patterns Density Checks Minimise sleep time. Training/competence of blast crew. Record wet or dewatered holes. Blast not drilled as per plan Can be correlated with inaccurately drilled patterns Maintenance of accurate drilling records and review of blast design if required to compensate for inaccuracies. Reconciliation of actual drill patterns vs. planned Inadequate mixing of raw materials Poor bench preparation not allowing for water run-off. Dewatering of holes diverts water into holes previously loaded with dry hole explosive products Frequent NOx fume in all areas associated with loading from a specific delivery system Product appearance abnormal Pooling of water Hole collars show effects of water damage Only when using non water-resistant explosive products Visual check Density check Ensure all loose material removed. Cut drains where required. Adequate inspection required prior to handing area over to drill team. Adjust explosive product selection according to manufacturer s recommendations. Bench cleaned up for effective water run-off. Training/competence of blast crew. Bench Preparation Assess bench slope and dewater up gradient holes first. On-bench drainage Rainfall on a sleeping shot. Slumping of holes Poor blast performance Review rainfall forecasts for planned sleep time of shot and select explosive products according to manufacturer s recommendations. Maximum sleep times will be followed according to the specifications details on the Technical Data Sheets (TDS) for each explosive product. Minimise sleep time for dry blast hole explosive products if rain is predicted. Bench drainage for water runoff. Seal top of blast holes to prevent water ingress e.g. with gas bags. Consider removing water affected product. Consider early firing of blast. Blast not loaded as per blast plan Localised or general occurrence Training/competence of blast crew. Effective supervision. Communication of loading requirements. Record actual loadings e.g. product, quantity, height versus plan. Blast hole deterioration between drilling and loading. Traceable to specific geological areas Inconsistent column rise while loading Shift communications Minimise time between drilling and loading. Use hole savers. Optimise drilling practices to minimise hole damage though rock cracking etc. Shotfirer Drill and Blast Engineer Drill Supervisor Drill and Blast Engineer Shotfirer MMU Operator Drill and Blast Supervisor Shotfirer Drill and Blast Engineer Shotfirer Drill and Blast Engineer Shotfirer Drill and Blast Engineer Drill Operator Drill and Blast Engineer Page 27 of 69

28 Cause 6: Contamination of Explosives in the Blast Hole Potential Cause Likely Indicators Control Measures Responsibilities Explosive product mixes with mud/ sediment at bottom of hole. Penetration of stemming material into top of explosive column (fluid/ pumpable explosive products only) Moisture in ground attacking explosive product Contamination of explosives column by drill cuttings during loading Blasts containing wet/dewatered blast holes only Blasts charged with fluid/ pumpable explosive products only Wet ground occurrence Hole collars not consistent size Inside of hole collars show disturbance Optimise drilling practices to minimise blast hole damage. Ensure appropriate loading practices are followed during charging. Ensure primer is positioned in undiluted explosive product. Insert gas bag to separate mud/ sediment from explosive product. Use blast hole savers Short Hole considerations Use end of loading hose dispersers to minimise contamination. Decking to eliminate contact with known dynamic water. Verify correct hose handling practices are in place. Use suitable, safe dewatering techniques. Training/competence of blast crew. Supervision and auditing of blast crews Use appropriate stemming material. Ensure explosive product is gassed to manufacture to specifications before stemming. Seal top of explosives column prior to stemming e.g. gas bag. Explosives product selection. Use hole liners where product not water resistant. Loading arrangements (work planning) Load wet holes first and dip remaining holes prior to loading. Adjust explosive product selection according to manufacturer s/supplier s recommendations relative to conditions Minimise Sleep Time Verify correct hose handling practices are in place e.g. operator competence, procedures, and use explosives supplier s personnel. Training/competence of blast crew. Minimise vehicle contact near blast holes. Use hole savers. Drill Operator Shotfirer MMU Operator Tech Services Superintendent Shotfirer MMU Operator Shotfirer MMU Operator Drill and Blast Engineer Shotfirer MMU Operator Drill and Blast Engineer Page 28 of 69

29 3.2 Blasting Mitigation Measures Underground Operations Ulan Underground and Ulan West Minor blasting, or shotfiring, is occasionally undertaken in the underground operations. Shotfiring is undertaken in accordance with the Ulan Underground Shotfiring Explosives Management (ULU TS PLN 0002). Generally, shotfiring is used as a result of an out-of-plan occurrence in the underground such as a fall of roof, change in intended use of a roadway or area or re-entry to an area of the mine designed for earlier equipment or infrastructure. A Risk Assessment is completed for underground shotfiring. Monitoring is only required during surface blasts, in accordance with EPL394, due to the imperceptible impacts from underground blasting. 3.3 Blasting Mitigation Measures Bobadeen Basalt Quarry Bobadeen Quarry is a basalt deposit located over Longwall W1 of the Ulan No. 3 mine. The quarry is currently inactive. This BMP will be revised prior to the recommencement of blasting activities within the quarry. 3.4 Blasting Mitigation Measures Ancillary Infrastructure As underground mining progresses new ventilation shafts will be commissioned and redundant upcast ventilation shafts will be either decommissioned or become downcast shafts. During construction of ventilation downcast shafts, minor blast activities may be required. These will use adjusted MIC levels and blast design to meet relevant criteria at all nearest residences, and have negligible potential for impact on private residences. As per the site Project Approval and EPL394, construction blasting is permitted during the hours of 7am to 7pm where design and predictions carried out prior to construction blasting occurring confirm that the overpressure and vibration levels will be less then 95dB(A) and 1mm/sec at private buildings. 3.5 Blasting Criteria and Restrictions This section applies to blast monitoring for the open cut mining operations only i.e. Ulan West Box Cut and Open Cut Extension areas. As the blast impacts from underground blasts are imperceptible, no blast monitoring is planned for these blasts. Page 29 of 69

30 3.5.1 Blasting Criteria Table 3.4 Blast Impact Criteria 4 Location Airblast Overpressure Level (db(lin Peak) Ground vibration (mm/s) Allowable exceedance Residence on privately owned land % of the total number of blast over a period of 12 months % Blasting Restrictions European Heritage Table 3.5 European Heritage Sites Located with the Project Approval Area 5 Site/item Site Type/Description Potential Impacts Nature of Restriction Old Ulan Village and site/item PK422 Site of Old Ulan Village including former hotel, former dwelling site (PK422), a ford and roadway, a graveyard, stockyards and associated fence lines. Open Cut Mining No Impacts Subsidence There is not expected to be any direct impacts on the main area of Old Ulan Village. The standing stone chimneys are not likely to be perceptibly impacted by mining subsidence (SCT 2009). However, the site is continually deteriorating and will continue to deteriorate. Although unlikely, any acceleration or change in the degradation of the site resulting from mining subsidence would have an impact on the heritage significance of the site. The form and fabric of the remnant stone chimney bases (site/item PK422) may be impacted by subsidence and cracking. Vibration and overpressure monitoring is conducted at the site, no blast criteria apply. Mine plan and predicted subsidence contour do not extend below the old Ulan Village Surface Infrastructure Upgrade of existing track through Old Ulan Village is within existing track easement and unlikely to result in any impacts. Bobadeen Station/ Homestead (Site/item CI07) Rural farm complex including homestead group of buildings and a number of other associated structures (including PK3 and PK5) and features related to the former operation of this large station. Open Cut Mining No Impacts Subsidence There may be minor impacts as a result of subsidence to the fabric of the homestead (the two brick built chimneys, internal features, concrete pathways and the tank). Surface Infrastructure No blast criteria apply. The construction of the infrastructure corridor may have a minor impact on views to and from the homestead. However, this is unlikely to impact on the assessed heritage significance 4 Condition 10 Schedule 3 of PA 08_0184 and Condition L6 of EPL Condition 10A Schedule 3 of PA 08_0184 set a no-impact condition for heritage sites Page 30 of 69

31 of Bobadeen Homestead. PK3 (part of Bobadeen Station/Homestead complex) Large metal and timber post built hay shed and associated long narrow concrete slab with a small timber post double enclosure Subsidence Although some cracking of the concrete slab may occur as a result of subsidence, tilts and strains, there are unlikely to be any significant impacts to PK3 as a result of the project. No blast criteria apply. PK5 (part of Bobadeen Station/Homestead complex) Metal windmill There are unlikely to be any significant impacts to site PK5 as a result of the project. No blast criteria apply. Talbragar Fish Fossil Reserve Deposit of Jurassic age sediments that contain an abundance of extremely well preserved fish, plant and invertebrate fossils Open Cut Mining No Impacts Subsidence While subsidence movements will result in a change in elevation to the location of the Talbragar Fish Fossil Reserve and possible cracking of the ground surface, these movements are expected to be accommodated without significant disturbance to the fish fossil beds because of their already fragmented nature. These changes are not predicted to be important, notable or of consequence or result in either direct or indirect impacts on the existing character or heritage values of the site. No blast criteria apply. Surface Infrastructure No Impacts Other Potential Impacts The Talbragar Fish Fossil Reserve is located within a fenced and secure site and there are unlikely to be any impacts as a result of illegal collectors during the mining period. PK243 (Apple Tree Flat) Rural farm complex including house (likely originally from mid to late 1800s) corrugated iron and timber built sheds and associated yards Open Cut Mining No Impacts Subsidence There are unlikely to be any significant impacts resulting from subsidence to site PK243 or its heritage significance during the proposed mining period as no perceptible subsidence movements are expected in this location (SCT 2009). No blast criteria apply. Surface Infrastructure The construction of the infrastructure corridor in its current proposed alignment is likely to substantially impact the fabric and thus heritage significance of this site. RV3 Derelict cottage site comprising house, timber post shed clad with corrugated iron, timber post and rail stockyards and former gardens Open Cut Mining No Impacts Subsidence The structures at the site are standing ruins with little integrity. Any deterioration as a result of subsidence is unlikely to impact any heritage significance the site may have. No blast criteria apply. Page 31 of 69

32 Surface Infrastructure The construction of the infrastructure corridor in its current proposed alignment is likely to substantially impact the fabric of this site. CI33 (Calbunya) Derelict weatherboard cottage and associated timber and corrugated iron sheds, timber post built stockyards, water tanks and recently installed metal silos. There are unlikely to be any significant impacts to site CI33 during the proposed mining period. No blast criteria apply. CI127 Small rectangular timber built shelter There are unlikely to be any significant impacts to this site during the proposed mining period. No blast criteria apply. RV4 Derelict timber stockyard with adjacent current timber post and metal rail stockyard There are unlikely to be any significant impacts to this site during the proposed mining period. No blast criteria apply. HS63 Timber getting site There are unlikely to be any significant impacts to this site during the proposed mining period. No blast criteria apply. CC6 Timber getting site There are unlikely to be any significant impacts to this site during the proposed mining period. No blast criteria apply. MM273 Timber getting site There are unlikely to be any significant impacts to this site during the proposed mining period. No blast criteria apply. OCE80/B Timber getting/sleeper cutting site There are unlikely to be any significant impacts to this site during the proposed mining period. No blast criteria apply. OCE84/A Timber getting/sleeper cutting site There are unlikely to be any significant impacts to this site during the proposed mining period. No blast criteria apply. OCE86/A Timber getting/sleeper cutting site There are unlikely to be any significant impacts to this site during the proposed mining period. No blast criteria apply. OCE94/A Timber getting/sleeper cutting site There are unlikely to be any significant impacts to this site during the proposed mining period. No blast criteria apply. RV1 Timber getting site Open Cut Mining RV2 Timber getting site Open Cut Mining Site RV1 is located within the proposed Open Cut Extension and will be removed during mining works. Site RV2 is located within the proposed Open Cut Extension and will be removed during mining works. No blast criteria apply. No blast criteria apply. CI198/G Rock shelter comprising an isolated slab of rock tilted to form a shelter with associated low rough stone built wall. There are unlikely to be any significant impacts to this site during the proposed mining period. Although the full range of mining subsidence movements are expected in this location, as a result of the relatively small size of the site, impacts are likely to be limited to the cracking of the floor. The rock itself is not expected to No blast criteria apply. Page 32 of 69

33 be destabilised as a result of mining (SCT 2009). PK96/B Rock shelter with potential collapsed low stone wall. There are unlikely to be any significant impacts to this site during the proposed mining period. The full range of mining subsidence movements are expected in this location and as a result some movement and minor cracking is expected. However, the rock itself is not expected to be destabilised as a result of mining. The stones forming the collapsed wall do not appear to have been laid in a structured fashion and are unlikely to be adversely impacted by subsidence movements (SCT 2009). No blast criteria apply. ID191 Large natural rock overhang with occasional scattered metal and wooden objects Under the current mine plan (the conservation barrier remains) there are unlikely to be any significant impacts to this site during the proposed mining period. No blast criteria apply. HS96/D Natural rock overhang with occasional scattered objects - associated with site/item ID191. Under the current mine plan (the conservation barrier remains) there are unlikely to be any significant impacts to this site during the proposed mining period. No blast criteria apply. Echidna Sill Three unidentified out of context coins. This site is located outside the proposed longwall mining area and will not be impacted during the proposed mining period. No blast criteria apply. HS135 A number of out of context bottles There are unlikely to be any significant impacts to this site during the proposed mining period. Although between 400 and 600 millimetres of subsidence is expected to occur at the site, it is unlikely that subsidence movements will adversely impact the site (SCT 2009). No blast criteria apply. Note: The no-impact condition is assessed in consideration of existing levels of decay and non-mining impact as recorded within the 2009 Ulan Coal Continued Operations Environmental Assessment. Page 33 of 69

34 Figure European Heritage Sites Page 34 of 69

35 3.5.3 Blasting Restrictions Aboriginal Heritage Section of the UCML Heritage Management (USO SD PLN 0013) states that a blast vibration consultant will undertake an assessment of blast monitoring data, define the zone of potential impacts from blasting with respect to susceptible heritage site types such as rock shelters and grinding grooves and provide advice on the risk of perceptible blast impacts on heritage sites in the blast impact zone that were not surveyed during the EA. Heritage sites considered susceptible to blast damage, as specified in the Heritage Management (), include: Site 74 (BM5); Site 445 (BM7); and Site 1395 (BM8). The assessment concluded that a blast criterion of 100mm/s peak particle velocity is likely to limit potential impacts on sandstone rock formations to low levels and that absolute protection from blast damage is not possible due to the natural ongoing erosion of the formations. Blasting criteria for aboriginal heritage sites was therefore determined as 100mm/s peak particle velocity. 6 Table 3.6 Aboriginal Heritage Sites in proximity to the blast zone Site/item Site Type/Description Management Strategy Site 74 Site 445 Site 1395 Rockshelter with Artefacts Located 104m from Open Cut Rockshelter with PAD Located 1460m from Open Cut Rockshelter with PAD Located 200m from Open Cut Low Significance small habitable floor area and PAD; shallow to moderate depth of deposit; low research potential No direct impacts planned; evaluate predictions and identify impacts; monitor for blasting; No direct impacts planned; evaluate predictions and identify impacts; monitor for blasting; Low significance, no direct impacts may occur, discrete site and probably feasible to avoid impacts 3.6 Blasting Monitoring Program For the purposes of assessing compliance against the blast criteria and restrictions (Section 3.5) monitoring programs have been established, implemented and refined for; 1. Blasting Criteria (Overpressure and Vibration). 2. Blasting Restrictions European Heritage. 3. Blasting Restrictions Aboriginal Heritage. These monitoring programs have been established in accordance with the Noise and Vibration Assessment, prepared by Wilkinson Murray, for the EA (Umwelt, 2009) and refined following a review of blast monitoring results to date. Blast monitors are established at the locations indicated in Figure Blasting Monitoring Blasting Criteria Overpressure and Vibration monitoring will occur at BM1 (Ulan School) in accordance with the requirements of EPL394 and PA 08_0184. It is noted that the closest private residence on the eastern side of the open cut mining operation is Receiver 1, approximately 8.5 km away (Ulan School is the closest on the south eastern side 2.6 km away). 6 SCT Operations Pty Ltd (October 2013) Page 35 of 69

36 Blast monitoring may be undertaken using: In-field, real time blast monitoring equipment; and/or Specialist blast monitoring contractors (when required). Calibration and maintenance of monitoring equipment will be carried out by a specialist blast monitoring service provider. Instrumentation used to measure and record airblast overpressure and ground vibration levels will meet the requirements of Australian Standard AS Blasting Monitoring European Heritage Real time monitoring of blasting impacts will be conducted at Old Ulan Village during open cut blasting as specified in the Heritage Management (ULN SD PLN 0013) in order to assess the potential impacts on the heritage item. Monthly inspections of the Heritage site will also be performed during periods of open cut blasting. No monitoring will be undertaken at any other European Heritage Sites, as these sites are timber getting/sleeper cutter sites or items which are predicted to have no impacts as a result of blasting activities (SCT, 2009). Outcomes of blast impact monitoring are provided in the Annual Environmental Review Blasting Monitoring Aboriginal Heritage The performance of the project is evaluated against the 100 mm/s blast impact criteria for aboriginal sites and assesses the level of impact resulting from blasting. 8 Real time monitoring of blasting impacts (airblast overpressure and vibration) will be undertaken for three rock shelter sites considered susceptible to blast damage, as specified in the Heritage Management (). These are: Site 74 (BM5); Site 445 (BM7); and Site 1395 (BM8). Real time monitoring of blasting impacts (airblast overpressure and vibration) will be undertaken as required to support heritage management strategies outlined in the Heritage Management (ULN SD PLN 0082). Heritage sites are monitored based on the recommendations of SCT with consideration to the following; Heritage Item type; Outcome of Significance Assessments; Management Strategy and Rationale; and Proximity to the modelled 100mm boundary. Bi-annual inspections are also undertaken to assess the physical condition of heritage items. Inspections are completed by a suitable qualified consultant who determines whether there has been any perceptible change to or deterioration in the physical condition of Heritage sites 74, 445 and 1396 as a direct result of blasting activities. Outcomes of blast impact monitoring are provided in the Annual Review. 7 Australian Standard AS2187.2:2006 Explosives Storage, Transport and Use 8 Condition 16(d) of PA 08_0184 Page 36 of 69

37 Figure Blast Monitoring Locations Page 37 of 69

38 3.7 Blasting ning and Community Response Open Cut Blast Notifications Notification of blasting, specifying the approximate time and location of the blast will be provided to specified neighbouring stakeholders by SMS and/or prior to each blast occurring. notification will be sent to neighbouring mines, including Ulan No. 3 Underground Mine, Ulan West Operations, Moolarben Coal Mine and Wilpinjong Coal Mine to minimise the likelihood of simultaneous firing of shots and allow for Ulan No.3 and Ulan West to establish safety measures (Section 3.7.4). Landowners or occupiers within 2 kilometres of the mining area who have requested to be informed about blasting times will also be notified prior to any blast occurring. The Drill & Blast Engineer will contact each person(s) registered on the Blast Contact Register, at least 24 hours prior to the scheduled time of the blast to inform the landowner/stakeholder of: The date and half hour time period for which the blast is scheduled; and The location of the pending blast within the Project area. Blast notifications are amended and resent if conditions change and the blast is either delayed or cancelled. Notification to each person on the Blast Contact Register is currently via unless another form of communication is requested by the individual. SMS messaging is available for blasts notifications and is offered to persons on the Blast Notification Register. Updates on the blast notification process will be communicated to the UCML CCC. Blast notifications are posted on the UCML website at where this BMP and blast monitoring results can also be accessed Blast Information Line A 24 hour, 7 day a week community and employee information telephone line ( ), provides information about surface blasting activities at the Ulan Mine Complex. The Drill & Blast Engineer will update the blasting information line upon releasing a new blast notification. If the blast schedule changes the blast information line will be updated with the new schedule information Blast Notification Boards The Drill & Blast Engineer will update the Blast Notification Boards located at the security gates at entrances to the Ulan Surface Operations and Ulan No. 3 Underground operations 24hrs prior to the scheduled blast time, with the following information. The date and time of the blast; and The location of the pending blast within the Project area Coordination with Neighbouring Mines The Drill & Blast Engineer will send notification of scheduled blasts, via to Moolarben Coal Mine and Wilpinjong Coal Mine, at least 24 hours prior to the scheduled time. If there is no conflict regarding the scheduled blast times, there will be no further correspondence entered into. Further discussion will be undertaken by the Drill & Blast Engineer and the relevant neighbouring mining operation to ensure blasts are a considerable time apart to reduce the potential for cumulative impacts, where required. Table 3.7 lists the personnel that need to be contacted prior to blasting in the Open Cut Extension Areas Page 38 of 69

39 Table Blast Notification Mine Personnel List Mine Site Ulan Underground Coal Mine Moolarben Coal Mine Wilpinjong Coal Mine List of Positional Contact for Notification of Scheduled Blast Manager of Mining Engineering, Undermanagers, Environment & Community personnel Drill and Blast Engineer, Drill and Blast Supervisor and Environmental Coordinator Drill and Blast Engineer, Drill and Blast Coordinator and Environmental Coordinator Community Receptor Engagement and Notification Community Engagement The (or delegate) engages with neighbouring stakeholders and the Community Consultative Committee annually in relation to the Pollution Incident Response Management (ULN SD PLN 0089) (PIRMP). Information provided as part of this engagement includes: Identification of potential significant incidents that could trigger the Ulan Pollution Incident Response Management. Potential interactions and impacts. Notification processes: o Telephone Calls; and/or o Personal instruction provided by Ulan representative. Copies of industry/government factsheets. Key contact details. General response instructions: o Avoid exposure to fume by leaving the premises, remaining indoors or remaining within vehicles; o o o o o o Close windows, vents and dampers; Turn off air conditioners; Bring pets inside; and/or Monitor for symptoms of exposure: eye, nose and throat irritation; coughing; dizziness and headache; shortness of breath; and/or wheezing or exacerbation of asthma. If exposed wash eyes, clear nose and throat. If experiencing respiratory symptoms seek immediate medical attention and inform doctor of possible NO 2 Exposure. The (or delegate) will request confirmation of contact details for existing and new receptors in conjunction with the provision of information. Scheduling and recording of correspondence is managed in accordance with the Social Involvement (ULN SD PLN 0015). Stakeholder and Community Receptor contact details are held within the Community Receptor GIS data files Community Notifications In the event the Ulan Pollution Incident Response Management is initiated for Blasting or Blast Fume Generation, the community receptors who may be impacted (Figure 3.6) will be contacted either by phone or in person by persons nominated by the, in accordance with s5.3 Ulan PIRMP. Page 39 of 69

40 Notification Process Instructions: Community receptors have an assigned ID, consistent with the Stakeholder Register. Direction and distance of community receptors from UCML operations are documented. Due to nature of blasting community receptors are sorted on the basis of direction starting at North, not sequential numbering. This will assist prioritise contacting community receptors. Figure Community Receptor Map Page 40 of 69

41 3.7.6 Community Complaints Community complaints management includes receipt of complaints, investigation, implementation of appropriate remedial action, and feedback to the complainant as well as communication to site management or personnel and notification to external bodies, such as the EPA, where necessary. Community complaints are managed in accordance with the UCML Social Involvement (ULN SD PLN 0015). UCML have developed a Complaints Procedure (ULN SD PRO 0001) to assist in recording complaints, complaint investigation and follow up actions. This procedure is established to record complaints received by UCML and provides the company with an important measure, which assists in the overall assessment of sustainable development (SD) performance. The Environment and Community Manager is responsible for complaints management. A 24 hour, 7 day a week community and employee information telephone line and address ulancommunity@glencore.com.au is maintained to: manage complaints received that may be a result of mining and/or associated activities conducted within land owned or managed by UCML; provide access to open cut blasting information for interested stakeholders; and provide access and incident information to employees during emergency situations. The Community Complaints Register is available at for the purposes of external review and transparency 9. Details of community complaints are reported in the Annual Environment Review Property Inspections and Investigations In November 2010, private landholders within 2 km of the approved open cut mining pit area were provided information regarding property inspections prior to blasting activities occurring inspections are undertaken by written request Performance Evaluation, Emergency and Incident Management Performance Evaluation An internal performance evaluation will be undertaken bi-annually and recorded in Compliance Management database (CMO). The evaluation will consider the following items: Compliance monitoring capture. Video capture. Review of Blast Design, inclusive of environmental criteria and responses. 5% criteria allowance. Fume Prediction comparisons to Actual Fume Rating. Fume Ratings matching Video Capture. Reporting requirement completion. Improvement Opportunities Post Blast Fume Rating Commencing April 2014, blast fume is recorded, rated and reported as follows: Records of fume ratings are to be kept on the mine site. Records of fume rating are to be provided to the DP&E as requested. Written records are to be kept for a minimum of 2 years. 9 PA 08_0184 Schedule 5, Condition PA 08_0184 Schedule 3, Condition 13 and 14 Page 41 of 69

42 Video record each blast where a risk of post blast fume is identified; all video footage is to be stored for at least 1 year. All videos should be a minimum duration of 1 minute following the blast and should capture any post blast fume until the fume dissipates, leaves the site, or leaves the view of the camera. Post blast fume is categorised using the rating system in Figure 3.7. Assessing the amount of NO x gases produced from a blast will depend on the distance the observer is from the blast and the prevailing weather conditions. The intensity of the NO x gases produced in a blast should be measured on a simple scale from 0 to 5 based on the table below. The extent of the NO x gases also needs to be assessed and this should be done on a simple scale from A to C where: A = Localised (i.e. NO x Gases localised across only a few blast holes) B = Medium (i.e. NO x Gases from up to 50% of blast holes in the shot) C = Extensive (i.e. Extensive generation of NO x Gases across the whole blast) Figure Fume rating guide DP&E will be notified of any blast producing post fume that rates 3 at its highest extent and leaves the site boundary (which includes any active mine site approval boundary, mine owned land and any closed portion of a public road) and any blast that rates 4 or 5. A formal incident report will be produced following a request from the DP&E compliance team. Page 42 of 69

43 3.8.3 Post Blast Fume Investigation Should blast fume be generated from a blast, the following fault tree (Figure 3.8) will be used during the subsequent incident investigation to identify which of the fundamental causes was the significant contributor to the generation of NO x. Once the likely causes have been identified appropriate action plans will then be put in place to mitigate and reduce the generation of fume from future blasts under similar circumstances. The fault tree will also be used to educate relevant personnel to ensure appropriate steps are taken in the design, loading and firing of the blast to minimise the likelihood of generating fume from the blast. Figure Blast Fume Event Tree (Source: AEISG, 2011) 3.9 Emergency Management The PIRMP 11 is triggered in response to a blasting or fume incident that is classified as a material harm incident, i.e. considered to be causing or threatening material harm. 12 The PIRMP Flow Chart directs determination of a material harm and escalation by the Operations Manager in consultation with the. Emergency Management procedures are established for Predicted Blast Impact Events and Unpredicted Blast Impact Events, described in the following sections. 11 ULN SD PLN Protection of the Environment Operations Act 1997 (NSW) s 147 Page 43 of 69

44 3.9.1 Predicted Blast Impact Events Predicted Blast Impact Events are blasts that have been identified through the pre-blast process as having a moderate risk of generating dust or fume that may travel offsite, impacting community receptors and/or generate a fume event greater than Category 3 (Section 3.1.3). The following actions are completed to manage Predicted Blast Impact Events; Pre-Blast A Predicted Blast Impact Event is triggered by the Drill and Blast Engineer through execution of the Blast Sign Off Authorisation 13 ; The Drill and Blast Engineer initiates the Adverse Weather Blasting process (Section ): o Review of blast design, modelling outputs, weather forecast tools and fume prediction; o Review of Weekly weather forecast; o Identification and assessment of likely consequences for delaying blasting hours; o Identification and assessment of likely consequences for delaying blasting shifts; o Identification and assessment of likely consequences of blasting during adverse weather conditions; o Identification and execution of controls to manage consequences of determined outcome; o Potential interactions or triggers of the Ulan Pollution Incident Response Management ; Blast Controller reviews Daily Weather Forecast to identify timing of favourable conditions; Blast Controller reschedules blast and reviews sentry positioning to account for fume plume; notifies DP&E if predicted fume Category 3 or greater; and Environment and Community Coordinator completes community receptor notification process for relevant receptors. During and Post-Blast Blast Controller monitors fume/dust plume and directs response of sentries to prevent entry into fume plume extent; Blast Controller monitors fume/dust plume and reports direction to relevant fume exclusion zone sentries (or delegate); Fume Exclusion Zone Sentries monitor fume direction and respond to road closures, community notifications and community receptor notification process Reactive Notifications as required; and If Blast Fume is suspected to move offsite or present as > Fume Level 3 at its highest extent the Blast Controller initiates the Incident Management Procedure. Determination of material harm is made by the USO Operations Manager in consultation with the. If the Operations Manager is not available immediately, the determination of material harm will be made by the. PIRMP notification processes commence immediately in the event that a fume event has potential to have caused material harm. The Incident Management process is initiated and an investigation and incident report is completed by the Drill and Blast Engineer Unpredicted Blast Impact Events Unpredicted Blast Impact Events are blasts that were identified through the pre-blast process as having a low risk of generating dust or fume that following initiation produce fume that may travel offsite, impacting community receptors and/or generate a fume event greater than Category 3 (Section 3.1.3). The following actions are completed to manage Unpredicted Blast Impact Events; Blast Controller monitors fume/dust plume and directs response of sentries to prevent entry into fume plume extent; 13 Blast Design (USO MIN PRO 0052) Page 44 of 69

45 Blast Controller monitors fume/dust plume and reports direction to relevant sentries to extend position and provide reactive fume/dust response; If Blast Fume is suspected to move offsite the USO Incident Management Procedure is initiated; and coordinates community receptor notification process for relevant receptors Reactive Actions. Determination of harm, notifications and investigation and reporting processes are the same as for predicted blast impact events. Figure USO Location in Context with surrounding features Page 45 of 69

46 3.10 Incident Reporting In the event of an exceedance of conditions (Tables 2.1, 2.2 and 2.3) or the criteria (Table 3.4), the exceedance will be recorded as an incident and investigated to determine the root cause and the outcomes considered in future blast design. The blast incident report shall include: The date, time and nature of the exceedance/incident. Identify the likely cause of the exceedance/incident. Describe the response action that has been undertaken to date. Describe the proposed measures to address the exceedance/incident. Exceedances are considered an incident and managed in the incident management systems. If a blast exceeds the 120dB (Lin Peak) and/or 10mm/s criteria, as outlined in Table 4, the incident will be reported by to the EPA and DP&E, as soon as practicable. 14 Exceedances of impact assessment criteria will be notified as an interim exceedance. An investigation will be conducted to confirm the exceedance status and determine the cause of the elevated criteria result. A written report is provided within seven days of notifying the EPA and DP&E of an exceedance, detailing: The date, time, and nature of the exceedance; Identification of the cause (or likely cause) of the exceedance; What action has been taken to date; and The proposed measures to address the exceedance. The PIRMP is not triggered for an exceedance of blast impact assessment criteria. Blasting design and procedures are amended as required to take into account design or operational improvements to reduce the potential for future blasting exceedances. Any impacts on cultural heritage sites will be managed in accordance with UCML Heritage Management (ULN SD PLN 0013). 14 EPL 394 Condition R7, PA 08_0184 Schedule 5 Condition 6 Page 46 of 69

47 4. Reporting External and internal reporting is undertaken in accordance with the reporting requirements of the EMS (ULN SD PLN 0050). Reporting requirements are presented in Table 11 below. Table 4 Reporting Requirements Requirement Trigger Agency Annual Environmental Review # Incident Reporting Notification and Formal Requests Project Approval Following any occasion of incident As requested by agencies DP&E DRE EPA DPI - Water MWRC DP&E DRE EPA PIRMP Agencies DP&E DRE EPA EPL Annual Return* EPL394 OEH Quarterly Environmental Monitoring Summaries* EPL 14 day Reports* Community Complaints Register Project Approval EPL394 Project Approval- Update Monthly UCML Website UCML Website UCML Website *Monitoring results provided in these reports will include vibration and overpressure recorded for each blast at each external blast monitoring site. # Monitoring results provided in the annual review will include vibration and overpressure recorded for each blast at each external blast monitoring site & a graphical representation of monitoring results at internal monitoring sites as well as average and max values for each site. Reports provide an assessment of compliance with performance measures and indicators. The Annual Environmental Review includes comparisons with EA predictions. A graphical summary of the blast monitoring results is presented at Community Consultative Committee meetings as appropriate. 5. Training Blast fume awareness training is provided in inductions. Additional education and awareness programs are provided for relevant personnel (Drill and Blast Coordinator, Shotfirers, Drillers, Mining Engineers, Operations Manager) 15 outlining the relevant risks and control measures associated with blast fume, consistent with their roles and responsibilities as they are detailed in this document and the Ulan Explosives and Shotfiring Management (USO SD PLN 0018). Training will typically cover the following aspects associated with blast fume management: The identification and rating of post-blast NO x gases; The potential health impacts of NO x gases; Potential causes of blast fume; and Fume mitigating actions as detailed in this document. 15 Training Matrix (USO SD TRN 0289) Page 47 of 69

48 6. Review and Improvement The () will be reviewed as required throughout the life of the Project or as otherwise directed by the Secretary of the DP&E. The review process is to reflect changes in environmental legislation and guidelines, and changes in technology or operational procedures. A review of the BMP will also be undertaken after the first 12 months of the Project for adequacy and reviewed every thereafter. The BMP will be reviewed post submission of the Annual Environment Review, independent audit, any modification or submission of an incident report and if necessary, it will be revised and resubmitted to DP&E, EPA and MWRC Definitions Term Definition AEISG ANFO BM BMP CCC D&B DP&E DPI EA EMS EPA EPL GCP GPS LGA MCM MIC MMU Mtpa MWRC NMS NO NO x NO 2 NSW OEH PA PAD Australian Explosives Industry Safety Group Ammonium Nitrate / Fuel Oil Blast Monitoring Community Consultative Committee Design and Blast NSW Department of ning and Environment Department of Primary Industries Environmental Assessment Environmental Management Strategy NSW Environmental Protection Authority Environment Protection Licence (No.394) Glencore Corporate Policy Global Positioning System Local Government Area Moolarben Coal Mine Maximum Instantaneous Charge Mobile Manufacturing Unit Million tonnes per annum Mid-Western Regional Council National Mining Services Nitric Oxide Oxides of Nitrogen Nitrogen Dioxide New South Wales NSW Office of Environment and Heritage Project Approval (08_0184) Potential Archaeological Deposit 16 PA08_0184, Schedule 5, Condition 4. Page 48 of 69

49 Term Definition PIRMP PPV TDS SD SMS UCML USO WCM WS Pollution Incident Response Management Peak Particle Velocity Technical Data Sheet Sustainable Development Short Message Service Ulan Coal Mines Limited Ulan Surface Operations Wilpinjong Coal Mine Weather Station Page 49 of 69

50 8. Accountabilities The UCML EMS (ULN SD PLN 0050) details the roles and accountabilities for employees, contractors and suppliers. Roles and accountabilities specific to the are outlined below. Role Operations Manager Accountabilities for this document Ensure adequate personnel/resources are available Facilitate overall compliance with regulatory requirements and undertake external reporting for legislative non-compliances as required Manager of Mining Engineering Ulan Surface Operations Oversee the implementation of the relevant requirements of the Blast Management Ensure that there are sufficient resources allocated and accountabilities assigned in order to implement the Blast Management Page 50 of 69

51 Role Technical Services Manager Accountabilities for this document Ensure this management plan is communicated to all personnel involved in the blasting process Ensure Drill and Blast Engineers are taking into account the potential environmental consequences of blasting (noise, vibration, dust and fume) within blast designs and that these designs are signed off by an experienced Drill and Blast engineering person (Superintendent or Senior Engineer) Ensure the shot firer in charge of the blast has a charge plan prior to loading Approve all charge plans Approve all alterations to previously approved charging plans Ensure the reporting protocol is maintained Ensure this plan is audited every two years Report and track fume ratings Escalate fume events to the appropriate Ensure pre-blast risk reviews are completed for all blasts Ensure all blasts are scheduled to reasonably expected weather windows Conduct a pre-scheduling risk assessment for all high risk blasts Monitor sleep time of all blasts Ensure the explosive supplier(s) meets the required standard for their explosives, as the contract owner Ensure relevant approvals are in place prior to initiating a blast. Ensure hazards related to blast fume are incorporated in operating standards and procedures for drilling, charging, stemming, blast guarding and post blast inspections Ensure that all personnel working on the shot are trained and competent Sign off of all blasting schedules Page 51 of 69

52 Role Drill & Blast Coodinator/Manager Accountabilities for this document Engineer Provide that sufficient resources are allocated for the implementation of this. Provide data on ground conditions to assist blast designer in the layout of the shot Design blasts to provide optimum extraction of material and manage blasting hazards such as fume, flyrock and overpressure. Procure blasting explosives Blast design to be cognisant of: weather conditions, presence of surface water after a rain event, dynamic water and ground conditions. Select explosives product appropriate to conditions and ensure explosives design parameters are met. Ensure that mine blasting products and equipment are to specifications and enable the safe effective blasting operations with minimum fume. Ensure supplier is providing specified product. Purchase appropriate products fit for task based on technical input. Seek industry solutions to fume problems and other explosives performance issues through contract negotiation, agreement and operation. Review of data after firing to determine if data was not as predicted. Ensure designs take into account the potential for fume by assessing the following: - Horizon risk level - Expected hole conditions for the blasting material type - Correct energy match for material type - Designed powder factor - Product selection - Expected sleep time - Bench topography Ensure D&B design are signed off by an experienced Drill and Blast engineering person (Superintendent or Senior Engineer) Page 52 of 69

53 Role Drill & Blast Coodinator/Manager Accountabilities for this document Engineer (continued) Ensure the charge sheets are developed using measured data Ensure charge sheets are approved by experienced Drill and Blast engineering person (Superintendent or Senior Engineer) Ensure any alterations to previously approved charging plans are reapproved by the Technical Services Superintendent Ensure the Incident Management Procedure is followed Supervise drill activities on the bench Conduit from drill activity to Drill and Blast Engineer. Bench preparation to standard prior to sign off and drilling. Ensure compliance of drill operators i.e. designs followed, variances captured, hole savers used when applicable. Ensure all Blast Protocol Considerations (Section 4.5.8) are in place and effective Drill & Blast Coodinator/Manager Driller Drill the drill pattern to plan Notify the experienced Drill and Blast engineering person (Superintendent or Senior Engineer)when conditions cause a change to the design, which include: - Strata hardness - Depth to coal seam - Moisture conditions Ensure adequate hole protection is in place (eg. Use of hole savers for holes greater than 15 m) Page 53 of 69

54 Role All Shotfirers Accountabilities for this document Oversee all explosives activities on bench. Oversight all explosives activities on bench. Management of on bench water. Compliance with design. Variations from design. Recording data. Supervision of loading technique. Conduit from bench to Drill and Blast Engineer. Review of Environment conditions prior to blasting Review the use of gas bags against dip logs. Page 54 of 69

55 Role Environment and Community Manager Accountabilities for this document Provide that sufficient resources are allocated for the implementation of this. Ensure appropriate resources are budgeted for to enable appropriate monitoring and management of blasting at the Bobadeen Basalt Quarry (if/when required). Ensure that blast management controls are implemented at the Bobadeen Basalt Quarry (if/when required). Ensure that the results of monitoring are evaluated and reported to senior management and to relevant personnel for consideration as part of ongoing mine planning. Ensure any potential or actual blast issue is reported in accordance with legal requirements and the corporate standard. Provide visible and proactive leadership in relation to the blast management. Ensure that operational changes consider the potential impacts of blast emissions to adjacent private landowners. Ensure all internal and external reporting requirements are met, including incident reporting in accordance with the EMS. Ensure all reporting complies with internal and external monitoring standards, protocols and regulations. Proactively engage government and community as required. Coordinate the ongoing review of this. Review and approve external reports e.g. Annual Review Report, prior to final approval by the Operations Manager. Provide advice to Open Cut Mining Contractor regarding vibration or overpressure management initiatives where necessary Direct additional monitoring as required Confirm the implementation of the BMP and ensure protocols are adhered to Page 55 of 69

56 Role Environment & Community Coordinator Accountabilities for this document Manage and maintain the blast monitoring program for the Bobadeen Basalt Quarry (if/when required). Ensure that all monitoring records are effectively maintained on site in accordance with the EMS. Coordinate the collation and evaluation of monitoring data. Conduct periodic environmental inspections in accordance with the EMS. Ensure any potential or actual blast management issue, including incidents and non conformances is reported to the ECM. Coordinate incident investigation processes including associated reporting requirements, in accordance with the EMS. Coordinate the implementation of any corrective actions and evaluate their effectiveness. Provide visible and proactive in relation to blast management. Participate in the ongoing review of this. Ensure the effective implementation of strategies designed to reduce blast impacts from the operation. Maintain the UCML meteorological station (WS1) and Real Time Noise Monitors Investigate community complaints and or other enquiries in relation to blast activities Investigate non-compliances or near non compliances Provide adequate training to relevant employees and contractors regarding their requirements under the All Employees & Contractors Ensure the effective implementation of this with respect to their work area. Ensure any potential or actual blast management issues, including environmental incidents, are reported to the Project Manager, Supervisor or Task Coordinator. All employees and sub contractors associated with blasting activities shall comply with the requirements of this blast management plan. Page 56 of 69

57 Role Health & Safety Manager Accountabilities for this document Provide adequate training to employees and contractors regarding their requirements under this blast management plan Closing out non-compliance and incident investigations in consultation with UCML Investigating non-compliances or near non compliances in consultation with the Project Engineer, Project manager and UCML Provide assistance to UCML regarding the investigation of community complaints and or enquiries in consultation with the Project Engineer and Project Manager Project Engineer Providing advice regarding vibration or overpressure management initiatives where necessary Directing additional monitoring as required in consultation with UCML The implementation of this blast management plan Coordinate the external blast monitoring Investigating non-compliances or near non compliances in consultation with the Health, Safety, Environment & Training Manager and Project manager Provide assistance to UCML regarding the investigation of community complaints and or enquiries in consultation with the HSET Manager and Project Manager Over seeing internal communications with UCML Communicating effectively with the Health, Safety, Environment & Training Manager to manage vibration and over pressure associated with blasting activities on site Carrying out site inspections as required Implementing and carrying out monitoring responsibilities associated with the internal monitoring requirements in this blast management plan Coordinating reviews of this blast management plan as required Page 57 of 69

58 9. Reference Information Reference information, listed in Table below, is information that is directly related to the development of this document or referenced from within this document. Table 9.1 Reference information UCML Other Reference Title UCML Blast Notification Register ULN SD PLN Heritage Management ULN SD PLN Social Involvement ULN SD PLN Noise Management ULN SD PLN Environmental Management Strategy ULN SD PLN Air Quality and Greenhouse Gas Management ULN SD PRO Complaints Procedure ULU TS PLN Shotfiring Explosives Management (Underground) USO MIN PRO 0003 Loading and Stemming Blast Holes USO MIN PRO 0052 Blast Design USO MIN PRO 0064 Blasting in Hot and/or Reactive Ground USO MIN PRO 0084 Post Blast Fume USO MIN FRM 0005 Blast Summary Form USO SD PLN Explosives and Shotfiring Management (Surface) Environment Protection Licence 394 Project Approval 08_0184 Umwelt Australia Pty Ltd (Umwelt), Ulan Coal Continued Operations Environmental Assessment (EA) Umwelt (2011) Ulan Coal Continued Operations North 1 Underground Mining Area, Minor Modification to Ulan No.3 & Ulan West Mine s & Proposed Concrete Batching t Umwelt (May 2012) Environmental Assessment Modification to Ulan Coal Continued Operations, Ulan West Mine ( Panels 1 4) and Construction Blasting NMS, (ULN SD EXT 0092) Page 58 of 69

59 9.1 Change Information Details of the document history are recorded in the document control register, by version. A summary of changes is provided in Table below. Table 9.2 Change information Version Date Review team (consultation) Change Summary 1 3/11/11 Cheryl Henriques, Jamie Lees, NMS Updated NMS Blast Mgmt to incorporate all blast activities across the complex i.e. UG, Open Cut, NMS area. New document number mgmt plan now a UCML document, part of EMS, replaces NMS document. 2 20/12/11 Cheryl Henriques, Jamie Lees Updates to respond to following DP&E comments: Section 3.5 should indicate potential impacts (and if necessary mitigation/management measures) on Aboriginal and historic sites as a result of construction of ancillary infrastructure (ventilation shafts). The BMP should provide that any works in areas not surveyed in the EA would occur prior to blasting (in accordance with the HMP). Updated Figs 1.2 & 4.1 and added text re survey of new areas prior to blasting (S4.2) /05/12 Ian Flood, Rachel Murray, Robyn Stoney Annual Review & updated based on MOD 1 and 2, & EPL 394 variation /06/13 Tara Stokes, Robyn Stoney AER 2012 Management Review /04/14 Tara Stokes, Stephen Bragg, Robyn Stoney /09/2014 Stephen Shoesmith, Robyn Stoney, Bruno Cediel, McLeod Mckenzie DP&E (Wayne Jones) AER 2013 Management Review Incorporate Fume Management Strategy as required by DP&E (Appendix C). Further feedback was received, requiring the clear definition of mitigation processes and community notification for the blasting process generally and in the event blast fume travelled offsite. 3 30/06/2015 Robyn Stoney Revised to Glencore template, AER 2014 review, further DP&E comments (administrative corrections) addressed in updated version submitted 8/10/ /01/16 Angela van der Kroft, Robyn Stoney Further DP&E comments (administrative corrections) addressed in updated version submitted 30/01/ /05/16 Angela van der Kroft Further DP&E comments (administrative corrections) as per dated 23/03/16 and updates to include MOD3. 4/11/2016 Tara Stokes by DP&E changed effective date and published Page 59 of 69

60 Appendix A - Correspondence Page 60 of 69

61 Page 61 of 69

62 Page 62 of 69

63 Page 63 of 69

64 Appendix B - Photographs of European Heritage Sites Talbragar Fish Fossil Reserve PK3 PK5 Page 64 of 69

65 C107 PK243 Old Ulan Village (including PK422) - including former hotel, former dwelling site (PK422), a ford & roadway, a graveyard, stockyards & associated fence lines. Page 65 of 69