GUIDELINES FOR HELMET DIVING/UNDERSEA WALK 1.0 Purpose of Guidelines The guidelines for the Helmet Diving/Undersea walk activity has been prepared by the Ministry of Tourism and Leisure to ensure that the activity is performed with due regard to safety, conservation and environmental priorities. The standards for equipment and operating procedures defined herein are intended to establish the minimum acceptable procedures for safe and responsible operation of the activity. 2.0 Definitions 2.1 Helmet Diving/Undersea walk means a recreational activity wherein: - a person walks on the sea floor at a maximum depth of 4 metres with the assistance of an overhead helmet and a hose connected to a free flow supply of fresh compressed air provided from the air compressor or cylinder found on a pleasure craft or platform and engage in a guided tour on the seabed to view the marine life in its natural habitat. 2.2 Site Manager means the person who shall be present on site at all times to supervise the overall operations of the activity and equipment. He shall also ensure the safety of clients, cleanliness of the operation base and pleasure crafts. 2.3 Helmet Diver means the person going underwater to take part in the Activity. 2.4 Underwater helmet means a breathing device worn over the head to ensure that the Helmet Diver has sufficient volume of air at all times to breathe normally. 2.5 Underwater monitor means an experienced underwater guide wearing a different colour of underwater helmet who shall guide the helmet divers along the trails. 2.6 Surface swimming monitor means an experienced surface swimmer using masks, snorkels and fins who shall follow the helmet divers whilst swimming on Ministry of Tourism and Leisure - 15 March 2013 Page 1
the surface and watch the overall well being of participants and render assistance as necessary. 2.7 Air Supply monitor means an experienced person who shall be responsible for ensuring that the required air supply is maintained at all times and that a reserve air supply is always readily available. 3.0 General Rules 3.1 Waiver and Release from Liability Form Without exception, all Licensees shall require ALL HELMET DIVERS of legal age or if a minor; a parent or legal guardian to read and sign an assumption of risk and release of liability waiver prior to participating in the Activity as per Standard Form at Annex I. 3.2 Conditions attached to the Activity 3.2.1 Location (i) The Activity shall be carried out only along approved trails, be of a minimum distance of 1-5 m from any coral fields and be determined according to the site and the region; (ii) The sites of operation shall be selected based on its convenience to the tourism hub, landing point, hotels, sea conditions and its natural beauty displaying a variety of marine life, coral colony in a safe marine environment of not more than 4 m depth as measured at high tide and in calm water; (iii) The site for the Activity shall not be moved at any point in time without prior approval by the Ministry responsible for fisheries; (iv) The proposed site shall remain a public domain; and (v) The Licensee shall inform the Ministries for Tourism, Fisheries, Environment and Tourism Authority of the starting date of operation of the activity for monitoring purposes. 3.2.2 Other requirements (i) The Licensee shall show proof of having the minimum list of equipment as listed at para. 3.3 for the Activity; and Ministry of Tourism and Leisure - 15 March 2013 Page 2
(ii) The Licensee shall have the minimum personnel requirements as listed at para. 3.4 for the Activity with proof of qualifications of same. 3.2.3 Clearances/Licenses/Permits (i) The Licensee shall submit the following to the Ministry responsible for fisheries for the approval of the helmet diving/undersea walk site and pay the appropriate fees for the survey: (a) submit a site plan and the trails with a detailed description of the site including coral patch;and (b) propose GPS coordinates. (ii) The clearance letter of the Ministry responsible for fisheries shall then be submitted to the Tourism Authority together with the plan to the Tourism Authority for approval of TEL. (iii) (iv) The Licensee shall hold a valid TEL for the Activity; and The Licensee shall hold or use a pleasure craft having a valid PCL. 3.2.4 Hours of business The operating hours for the Activity shall be between 8.00hrs and 17.30 hrs. 3.3 Minimum requirements of equipment for operation (i) Dive Helmet (a) Material: A breathing device worn over the head and made of Inox or Stainless Steel(SS) or fiber glass or unbreakable polycarbonate plastic. (b) Design: The design shall be based on efficiency, comfort and safety. (c) Air Supply Control: The air supply monitor shall operate a pressure regulator that controls the pressure of air flowing into the helmet. (d) View Ports & Visual Field : the material used shall be of laminated glass or heat tempered glass or clear polycarbonate plastic. Diving helmet viewports shall : (i) avoid underwater view distortion; Ministry of Tourism and Leisure - 15 March 2013 Page 3
(ii) (ii) be at least 7 mm thick for tempered or laminated glass, and 3-5 mm thick for polycarbonates; and (iii) provide good visibility in front, both sides and above (e) Helmet Fittings: Material used shall be of stainless steel as far as practicable. Helmet hose connectors shall have a snap lock fitting and be self-sealing (f) Helmet Weight: The helmet shall have negative buoyancy of between 5 and 10 kgs when submerged and full of air. Air delivery System Solar or Electric or fuel motor driven air compressors or compressed air cylinder shall be available as the compressed air source. The operator shall keep record of maintenance and testing of air compressors and cylinders to be made available to relevant authorities on request. (a) Air Compressor (i)there shall be regular maintenance of air compressor; (ii)the air filter shall be changed as and when required or according to manufacturer s specification; and (iii)air purity shall be tested and recorded on an annual basis. (b) Cylinder There shall be regular maintenance and servicing along with visual inspection and pressure testing. (iii) Reserve Air Supply A reserve air supply of 10 minutes for 9 divers shall be made available. (iv) Control Panel A Control Panel shall have an adjustable pressure regulator and pressure gauge showing the pressure of air being delivered to divers. (a) A heavy duty Stainless Steel(SS) or Inox control panel with inlets and outlets or SS valves for up to 8 divers(+ one Underwater Monitor) shall be provided; (b) The Air supply monitor shall control the air supplied to the helmet divers; and (c) Each diver shall have a separate air supply. (v) Hose and fittings Type: breathing yellow air hose in accordance with AS 2299 and AS/NZS 1716 or any equivalent standards Ministry of Tourism and Leisure - 15 March 2013 Page 4
(vi) Reinforcing: Terylene braid with longitudinal supports along the entire length of the hose Outer material : U.V. & kink resistant and UV resistant for long life Length of Hose: It shall be a maximum of 30 metres. Hose reel and stand To eliminate hose entanglement, a Stainless Steel/galvanised/aluminium hose stand is recommended. 3.4 Personnel Requirements All Helmet Diving operation bases shall be operated with trained staff all of whom shall be proficient in swimming, snorkeling, and hold valid, recognized and approved certification qualifying them in life saving and first aid techniques. Such first aid qualification shall include resuscitation techniques. These staff shall operate in the following capacity, regardless of whether 1 or 8 helmet divers make up the guided tour: (i) One underwater monitor shall guide the Helmet Divers around the site; (ii) Two surface swimming monitors using masks, snorkels and fins shall follow the group of divers whilst swimming on the surface and watch the overall well being of participants and be able to render rapid assistance as necessary; (iii)one air supply monitor on board (i.e. pleasure craft or platform) shall be responsible for ensuring that the required air supply is maintained at all times and that a reserve air supply of 10 minutes provision is always readily available; and (iv)a Site Manager shall be present on operation site at all times to supervise the overall operations of the activity and equipment. He shall also ensure the safety of clients, cleanliness of the operation base and pleasure crafts. 3.5 Pleasure Craft transfer The Licensee shall ensure that the pleasure craft used for transfer of clients to the operating base has been authorized to collect clients from the designated embarkation point. Ministry of Tourism and Leisure - 15 March 2013 Page 5
3.6 Pre-Dive Verbal and Physical Briefing (a) The monitor or Manager in charge shall give a pre-dive verbal and physical briefing before any underwater activities commence. (b) It shall be the responsibility of the monitor in charge to ensure that pre-dive briefing be clearly understood by all participants and shall contain, inter alia the following information: (i) (ii) (iii) (iv) (v) (vi) (vii) a description of the activity; description of local marine life and conservation; safety precautions to be taken while proceeding to the site and during the walking trail; safety and life saving equipment locations; warnings and procedures for unexpected events and in case of emergency; Signals for basic communication underwater which must include OK and I want to go back to the dive platform (use of illustrated cards for these signals is recommended); How to equalize pressure in the ears (viii) No participants may enter or be in the water at a Helmet Diving site at any time unless having been instructed to do so ; (ix) (x) question and answer period; and exclusion of any passenger or participant that may be intoxicated prior to participation. 3.7 Minimum age requirements No person of less than 7 years shall be allowed to undertake the Activity. A child between 7 years and 12 years shall be accompanied by an adult during the underwater trail. 3.8 Underwater Trail (i) The Underwater monitor shall stand by at the foot of the ladder to receive and steady helmet divers as they descend from the platform to the sea floor by means of a secure ladder; (ii) The total number of helmet divers (including the Underwater Monitor) shall not exceed 9 persons; Ministry of Tourism and Leisure - 15 March 2013 Page 6
(iii) (iv) (v) The activity shall be carried out in a maximum of 4 meters bottom depth as measured at high tide and in calm water; The minimum and maximum duration for the underwater part of the activity shall be 15 and 20 minutes respectively; and The tour shall take place within the approved trail. 3.9 Daily equipment inspections and maintenance Prior to operating, it shall be the responsibility of the Site Manager to have the underwater monitor inspect the helmet dive walking circuit to ensure it is clear and clean. He will carry out a daily inspection of all helmet diving equipment to check for any damage and/or wear and if necessary the item shall be immediately replaced or taken out of service. Other related equipment shall also be properly maintained and in safe operating condition. 3.10 Boat traffic/right of way At all times the divers down Alpha flag (with dimension 20x24 inches including a stiffener to keep the flag unfurled) or rigid replica and visible at least 30 metres away and from any direction shall be fixed on the platform while the activity is being carried out. Boat traffic shall not be allowed within a distance of 30 metres from the approved trail except for transfer of clients to the operating boat/platform and security craft. The zone shall be demarcated with floats during the operation. 4.0 Weather Conditions 4.1 Pre-Dive Weather Evaluation It shall be the responsibility of the Site Manager to evaluate and determine if both weather and sea conditions are favourable for the safe operation of the Activity. 4.1.1 Weather Warnings The Activity shall not be carried out once a cyclone warning is in force or any adverse conditions exist. 4.1.2 Sea Condition The underwater monitor and the Site Manager shall jointly assess the sea conditions throughout the day, both on the surface and underwater, to determine if conditions are safe for diving. A dive shall not be operated in seas where current Ministry of Tourism and Leisure - 15 March 2013 Page 7
or wave action affect the ability of participants to walk or maintain their balance under water or if underwater visibility is less than 4 meters. 5.0 Environment Conditions All Licensees shall comply to the Environmental Guidelines No. 23 dated 29 September 2006 (Annex II) of the Ministry of Environment and S.D as follows: (i) The proposed site shall have prior approval of the Ministry responsible for Fisheries and shall remain a public domain; (ii) The exact Global Positioning System (GPS) Coordinates of the site shall be submitted to the Ministry of Tourism and Leisure,Ministry of Environment and Sustainable Development and the Tourism Authority; (iii) The platform or boat used for the Activity shall be anchored with pins on a sandy bottom devoid of corals, sea grass bed and seaweed. The anchored platform shall not be displaced; (iv) No coral shall be removed or broken; (v) No marine organism shall be removed from the site; (vi) No marine organism, dead or alive shall be imported to the site; (vii)feeding of fish shall not be allowed; (viii) All measures shall be taken by the Licensee to ensure that the marine ecosystem is not disturbed or damaged; and (ix) The hose used for supply of breathing air shall not damage corals and other marine organisms. 5.1 Other conditions (i) Prior to start of operations, the promoter shall carry out a baseline study and place permanent transects on the site for future monitoring; (ii) The Licensee shall monitor the site and submit a report (including photos) every 6 months and a yearly report (including a video), prepared and certified by a marine biologist on the state of the marine environment,to the Ministry of Tourism, Ministry responsible for Fisheries, the Ministry of Environment and the Tourism Authority; and (iii)the promoter shall ensure that participants stay clear of organisms and do not block or attempt to alter their natural path. 6.0 Safety Requirements Ministry of Tourism and Leisure - 15 March 2013 Page 8
(i) The Licensee shall be held responsible for any negligence leading to an incident or accident during the activity; (ii) The Licensee shall establish and practice an emergency drill every month involving all staff during which staff will demonstrate their ability to support on the surface and swim with a person a distance of 30 meters to the ladder and remove this person from the water without any assistance from the person involved ; (iii) All staff shall be familiar with the procedures to be followed in case of emergency. (i.e. emergency phone numbers shall be displayed on the platform such as medical, Coast Guard and other relevant authorities); and (iv) Under no circumstances may alcohol be brought onto the activity s base or consumed by any member staff or participants engaged in the activity. 7.0 Safety Equipment 7.1. Safety Equipment (i)licensees shall use only approved items of equipment in good condition; and (ii)all pleasure crafts/platform shall be fitted or provided with the items of equipment as prescribed under the Tourism Authority (Items of Equipment for Pleasure Crafts) Regulations 2013 (Draft). (Annnex III) 7.2 Additional equipment for Pleasure Craft/Platform At all times the pleasure craft or recreational platform when operational must be equipped with: a) reliable ship to shore two way communications onboard (at least one communication) (b)2 First Aid Kit (1 for emergency and 1 for day to day use); (c) A back up form of communication, such as a cellular phone; (d) At least 2 large dry towels; and (e) At least 2 blankets. 8.0 Written Log Book A written log book shall be kept at all times on board craft/platform and shall, inter alia, contain the following: Number of participants; Ministry of Tourism and Leisure - 15 March 2013 Page 9
Duration of the running hours of the air compressor; Daily equipment inspections; Record of all Emergency drills held including date and names of participants; Weather and sea condition readings before every operation session; and Maintenance report. Record of safety drills held with date and names of participants The standard Written Log Book is at Annex IV 9.0 NPF/NPS All staff shall be registered by the Licensee for the NPS/NPF. 10.0 Documents for Inspection Documents such as the following shall be made available for inspection: Written Log Book TEL and Pleasure Craft License or copies of same Skipper licenses and first aid qualifications Record of maintenance and testing of air compressor and cylinder 11.0 Insurance The activity of helmet diving/undersea walk shall be covered by a comprehensive insurance policy covering third party liability of a minimum of Rs 10 million/per activity. 12.0 Conduct of Licensee The Licensee shall adhere to the following minimum guidelines: a) He shall observe a zero tolerance policy for deviation from these guidelines which shall be considered as a minimum standard and must at all times place client s safety first; Ministry of Tourism and Leisure - 15 March 2013 Page 10
b) He must file an incident report to an authorized officer as prescribed [Section 2 of the Tourism Authority Act 2006], immediately upon any known, or client injury or rescue which requires medical attention, and shall use the Incident Report form as at Annex V; c) A copy of the emergency procedures manual and incident report form must be kept on board the vessel at all times while in operation; d) He shall observe the Code of Conduct for Helmet Diving/Undersea walk Licensees, staff and participants as at Annex VI; and e) Any breach of the above conditions would entail a warning or the suspension of the operator s TEL and eventually the revocation or cancellation of the TEL for the Activity. Ministry of Tourism & Leisure 15 March 2013 Ministry of Tourism and Leisure - 15 March 2013 Page 11
Annex I WAIVER AND RELEASE FROM LIABILITY FORM HELMET DIVING/UNDERSEA WALK ACTIVITY 1. HELMET DIVER S INFORMATION SURNAME:.NAME/S:.NATIONALITY:. Age:.Passport No(if non-resident).: I.D number(if Mauritian): Address in Mauritius: Address (Home):. Email:. Person to contact in case of incident/accident: Phone Number of contact person: 2. ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF RISK Please read this declaration carefully before signing. (a) In signing this document, I affirm that I am aware of and understand that Helmet Diving as the well as the aquatic environment in which it takes place have inherent risks. (b) I hereby declare that I am physically fit. (c) I agree to abide by and respect the security measures and information given during the pre-dive verbal and physical briefing of which I have been informed by the Site Manager. (d) I accept that the activity may be stopped or cancelled by a decision taken by the Site Manager due to weather or sea conditions. (e) I assume full responsibility for all risks as well as any injuries or damage in relation with the activity for which I have signed up and which could be due to my acts. I undertake personally, as well as on behalf of my family, heirs, assigns or beneficiaries not to proceed with any claim, lawsuit or plaint against the Site Manager or staff members. (f) In case of incident/accident, I authorise the Site Manager to transport me or have me transported for examination by a doctor. If the medical advice is treatment and if unconscious or incapable, I authorise the Site Manager or his staff to sign on my behalf. (g) I understand that the terms used in this document are contractual and that I have signed this document of my own free will. (Please write Read and Approved ) Signature:.. Date:.. Signature of parent or responsible party: Date:
ENVIRONMENTAL GUIDELINES Guideline number Activity 1. Poultry rearing below 5000 heads 2. Assembly of batteries 3. Cold rooms and refrigeration plants 4. Bus depot of less than 50 buses 5. Bakery 6. Demolition of buildings 7. Multi-purpose hall, including weddling hall 8. Filling station 9. Inland hotel 10. Food processing for small and medium enterprises 11. Food Canning Industry 12. Mirror Manufacture 13. Processing, bottling and canning of beverages, syrup and water 14. Pesticides fomulation and packing 15. Refining and processing of edible oils and fats 16. Wastewater Treatment Plant 17. Retreading of tyres 18. Traffic Centre 19. Residential Care Home 20. Manaufacture of polyrethane foam 21. Nautical Centre 22. Block making plant manufacturing up to 10,000 blocks per day 23. Undersea walk 24. Electroplating 25. Bulk storage of pesticides and dangerous chemicals 26. Manufacture of soap and detergents 27. Timber warehousing 28. Decommissioning of wastewater treatment plant
MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND NDU ENVIRONMENTAL GUIDELINE No. 1 POULTRY REARING 1.0 Purpose of guideline This environmental guideline for the rearing of up to 5000 poultry birds has been prepared by the Ministry of Environment & NDU to ensure that all environmental issues are duly taken into consideration by stakeholders. 2.0 Nature of development The poultry sector has undergone a very rapid development from a part time backyard activity to a more intensive method of rearing. The most common methods of rearing are the deep litter system and the battery system. 3.0 Potential impacts The major environmental issues associated with a poultry farm are odour, generation of solid waste and generation of wastewater. The different aspects, impacts and nuisances related to such activities are listed below: Activity Aspects Impacts/ Nuisances Construction phase Design of pens - Poor ventilation - Pens incompatible with the surrounding environment - Odour - Aesthetics and visual impacts Site preparation / Construction of buildings - Generation of excavated soil, debris and construction wastes - Dumping into bare lands, water bodies and drains - Use of heavy machinery Operation phase Rearing activity - Solid wastes generation, poultry litter/ droppings, rotten eggs, hatchery wastes, dead birds - Poor husbandry practices - Poor housekeeping (including cleaning and maintenance) Washing of poultry Wastewater generation pens - Noise, mud,dust, traffic - Visual impacts - Odour and dust -Risks of contamination of water courses and groundwater - Flies / pests/ rodents - Risks of diseases (Health impacts and biosecurity risks) Risks of contamination of water courses and groundwater
4.0 Siting of activity In accordance with the Planning Policy Guidance 2004 of the Ministry of Housing and Lands, the selected site shall:- Satisfy a minimum distance of 200 m from the settlement boundaries and sensitive land uses Not occur within an Irrigation Zone Be at least 200 m from any slaughter house Be at least 200m from any borehole 5.0 Environmental conditions The major environmental issues are odour, effluent disposal and solid waste and the following conditions shall be observed: (i) (ii) (iii) (iv) (v) Wastewater and sewage generated from the poultry farm shall be collected and disposed of. All solid wastes generated from the poultry farm shall be collected and disposed of. All feeds and garbage shall be kept in covered containers. There shall be no feed spillage and accumulation of waste. No nuisance by way of noise dust, odour shall be caused to the public and surrounding environment during site preparation, infrastructural works and during operation of the farm. The Department of Environment of the Ministry of Environment and NDU shall be informed in writing of the dates of commencement of works on site and operation of the activity for monitoring purposes. 6.0 Enforcement Under Section 13 of the Environment Protection Act 2002, the enforcing agencies for the different environmental medium or pollutants are as follows: S. No Environmental media/ pollutant Enforcing Agency 1 Odour Ministry of Health and Quality of Life 2 Inland waters, effluents Ministry of Public Utilities 3 Solid wastes Ministry of Local Government 2
The above-mentioned enforcing agencies shall monitor compliance with the conditions falling under their purview. 7.0 Offences Any person who fails to comply with any regulations/standards referred to in this guideline shall commit an offence and shall: (i) on a first conviction, be liable to a fine not exceeding 50, 000 rupees and to imprisonment for a term not exceeding two years. (ii) on a second or subsequent conviction, be liable to a fine not exceeding 100,000 rupees and to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 8 years. For further information, please contact Information Counter, Department of Environment, Ground Floor Ken Lee Tower, 1, St Georges Street Port-Louis Tel: 2036200-2036210 Website: http://environment.gov.mu Email : menv@mail.gov.mu 3
MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND NDU ENVIRONMENTAL GUIDELINE No. 2 ASSEMBLY OF BATTERIES 1.0 Purpose of guideline This environmental guideline for the assembly of batteries has been prepared by the Ministry of Environment & NDU to ensure that all environmental issues are duly taken into consideration by stakeholders. 2.0 Nature of development Assembly of batteries may be done either manual or automated, although the environmental impacts of both are similar. The different processes involved in the assembly of individual batteries and battery packs are: assembly of electrodes and insulating materials; installing electrode into casing; filling of acid; sealing casing; connecting batteries to form battery pack; sealing pack into casing; and charging and testing 3.0 Potential impacts The major environmental issues associated with the assembly of batteries are noise, generation of hazardous wastes and effluent disposal. The different aspects, impacts and nuisances related to such activities are listed below: Activity Aspects Impacts/ Nuisances - Generation of excavated - Dumping into barelands, water soil, debris and construction bodies and drains wastes Construction phase (Applicable for large buildings) - Use of heavy machinery Operation Phase Storage and -Risk of spillage of acid - Acid spill - Noise, mud,dust, traffic and construction waste 1
handling of lead, acid and battery cases Cleaning and maintenance -Solid/Hazardous waste generation -Air, water and soil contamination - Odour - Noise Pollution - Dust emission - Wastewater generation -Risks of contamination of water courses and groundwater 4.0 Siting of activity Enterprises involved in the assembly of batteries should be located outside residential areas. 5.0 Environmental conditions The major environmental issues are noise, odour, generation of hazardous wastes, effluent disposal and the following conditions shall be observed: (i) All electric motors such as stand-by generator and air- conditioning devices shall be housed in soundproof enclosures to keep noise level within permissible limits as per the Environment Protection (Environmental Standards for Noise) Regulations 1997. The noise exposure limits as per the above regulation are as follows: Industrial noise Neighbourhood noise 7:00 21:00 60*dB(A) Leq 7:00-18:00 60 db(a) Leq 21:00 7:00 55*dB(A) Leq 18:00-21:00 55 db(a) Leq 21:00-7:00 50 db(a) Leq * A tonal character adjustment of +5 db(a) should be applied to the measured value where the noise has a definite continuous note such as a whine or hiss. (ii) (iii) (iv) (v) A contingency plan as provided for under section 30(3)(a) of the Environment Protection Act 2002 shall be prepared and implemented to combat any case of accidental chemical spillage. A wall/structure to contain overflows shall be provided around the acid storage area to control any accidental spillage or leakage. All hazardous wastes shall be collected and disposed of as per the Environment Protection (Standards for Hazardous Wastes) Regulation 2001. Damaged batteries shall be stored within the premises and exported for recycling. 2
(vi) (vii) Solid wastes shall be collected and disposed of. Wastewaters shall be collected, treated and disposed of. (viii) No nuisance by way of noise dust, odour shall be caused to the public and surrounding environment during site preparation, infrastructural works and during operation of the activity. (ix) The Department of Environment of the Ministry of Environment and NDU shall be informed in writing of the dates of commencement of works on site and operation of the activity for monitoring purposes. 6.0 Enforcement Under Section 13 of the Environment Protection Act 2002, the enforcing agencies for the different environmental medium or pollutants are as follows: S. No Environmental media/ pollutant Enforcing Agency 1 Odour, Noise Ministry of Health and Quality of Life 2 Inland waters, effluents Ministry of Public Utilities 3 Solid wastes and hazardous wastes Ministry of Local Government The above-mentioned enforcing agencies shall monitor compliance with the conditions falling under their purview. 7.0 Offences Any person who fails to comply with any regulations/standards referred to in this guideline shall commit an offence and shall: (i) on a first conviction, be liable to a fine not exceeding 50, 000 rupees and to imprisonment for a term not exceeding two years. (ii) on a second or subsequent conviction, be liable to a fine not exceeding 100,000 rupees and to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 8 years. For further information please contact Information Counter, Department of Environment, Ground Floor Ken Lee Tower, 1, St Georges Street Port-Louis Tel: 2036200-2036210 Website : http://environment.gov.mu Email : menv@mail.gov.mu 3
MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND NDU ENVIRONMENTAL GUIDELINE NO.3 COLD ROOMS AND REFRIGERATION PLANTS 1.0 Purpose of guideline This environmental guideline for cold rooms and refrigeration plants has been prepared by the Ministry of Environment & NDU to ensure that all environmental issues are duly taken into consideration by stakeholders. 2.0 Nature of development Cold rooms and refrigeration plants serve to store and preserve fruits, flowers and vegetables, dairy products, meat and seafoods. Equipment used are namely compressors, evaporators, transformers, condensers and generators. Cold rooms and refrigeration plants also usually include preparation areas for labeling and packaging as well as units for food processing. 3.0 Potential impacts The major environmental issues associated with cold rooms and refrigeration plants are noise, solid waste and air pollution. The different aspects, impacts and nuisances related to such activities are listed below: Activity Aspects Impacts/ Nuisances Construction phase Site preparation / - Generation of excavated soil -Dumping into barelands, construction of, debris and construction water bodies and drains buildings (where applicable) wastes Operation phase Refrigeration process - Use of heavy machinery - Type and volume of refrigerant -Dust, noise and mud -Visual impacts - Impacts on air quality and atmosphere (ozone depletion) - Health hazards - Risks of spillage - Fire hazards - Use of electric motors (e.g - Noise compressors, generators) - Air emissions Storage, processing -Generation and - Odour 1
and packaging of foodstuffs Washing of cold room, floors and equipment Distribution or onsite sale accumulation of putrefied and damaged foodstuffs and other solid wastes -Poor housekeeping -Wastewater generation - Inadequate parking facilities - Accessibility - Flies / pests/ rodents - Land and water pollution -Risks of pollution of water courses -Traffic implications 4.0 Siting of activity Case to case basis 5.0 Environmental Conditions The major environmental issues relate to noise, air pollution, solid wastes and the following conditions shall be observed: (i) All electric motors such as stand-by generator and air-compressors shall be housed in soundproof enclosures to keep noise level within permissible limits as per the Environment Protection (Environmental Standards for Noise) Regulations 1997. The noise exposure limits as per the above regulation are as follows: Industrial noise Neighbourhood noise 7:00 21:00 60*dB(A) Leq 7:00 18:00 60 db(a) Leq 21:00 7:00 55*dB(A) Leq 18:00-21:00 55 db(a) Leq 21:00 7:00 50 db(a) Leq * A tonal character adjustment of +5 db(a) should be applied to the measured value where the noise has a definite continuous note such as a whine or hiss. (ii) (iii) (iv) The refrigerant used and the insulating materials shall be free from ozone depleting substances (ODS) and shall be environment friendly with low global warming potential as approved by the National Ozone Unit of the Ministry of Environment & NDU. Wastewaters shall be collected and disposed of. All solid wastes shall be removed, scraped and swept thoroughly before washing with water. All organic wastes shall be stored in a separate compartment in the cold room prior to collection and disposal. 2
(v) (vi) No nuisance by way of noise dust, odour shall be caused to the public and surrounding environment during site preparation, infrastructural works and during operation of the activity. The Department of Environment of the Ministry of Environment and NDU shall be informed in writing of the dates of commencement of works on site and operation of the activity for monitoring purposes. 6.0 Enforcement Under Section 13 of the Environment Protection Act 2002, the enforcing agencies for the different environmental medium or pollutants are as follows: S. No Environmental media/ pollutant Enforcing Agency 1 Noise, odour Ministry of Health and Quality of Life 2 Effluents Ministry of Public Utilities 3 Solid wastes Ministry of Local Government 4 Air pollution Ministry of Environment The above-mentioned enforcing agencies shall monitor compliance with the conditions falling under their purview. 7.0 Offences Any person who fails to comply with any regulations/standards referred to in this guideline shall commit an offence and shall: (i) on a first conviction, be liable to a fine not exceeding 50, 000 rupees and to imprisonment for a term not exceeding two years. (ii) on a second or subsequent conviction, be liable to a fine not exceeding 100,000 rupees and to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 8 years. For further information, please contact Information Counter, Department of Environment, Ground Floor Ken Lee Tower, 1, St Georges Street Port-Louis Tel: 203 6200-2036210 Website: http://environment.gov.mu Email : menv@mail.gov.mu 3
MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND NDU ENVIRONMENTAL GUIDELINE No 4 BUS DEPOT 1.0 Purpose of guideline This guideline for the setting up of a bus depot of less than 50 buses has been prepared by Ministry of Environment & NDU to ensure that all environmental issues are duly taken into consideration by stakeholders. 2.0 Nature of development A bus depot serves as an area for parking buses and may also involve numerous activities such as cleaning, washing, servicing of buses, panel beating, painting and fuel dispensing. 3.0 Potential impacts The major environmental issues associated with a bus depot are noise, air pollution and generation of solid waste including hazardous wastes. The different aspects, impacts and nuisances related to such activities are listed below: Activity Aspects Impacts/ Nuisances Construction phase Site preparation / - Generation of excavated soil Construction of, debris and construction buildings wastes Operation phase Movement of vehicles - Use of heavy machinery - Generation of noise -Dumping into barelands, water bodies and drains -Dust, noise and mud -Visual impacts - Nuisance to the neighbourhood - Generation of smoke - Air pollution - Traffic implication Washing of buses - Generation of wastewater - Contamination of water bodies Maintenance and servicing of vehicles - Generation of hazardous wastes (used oil, batteries, oil filters, brake fluid) - Soil contamination and contamination of water bodies - Solid wastes (Used tyres, used brake pads) - Visual impacts - Pests, rodents and flies Fuel dispensing - Risk of fuel spillage - Soil contamination and
and storage - Risk of fire contamination of water bodies - Air pollution and human injury Panel beating and painting Use of pumps and compressors - Generation of noise - Nuisance to the neighbourhood - Evaporation of paints and - Air pollution solvents - Noise - Nuisance to the nearby inhabitants 4.0 Siting of activity Not applicable 5.0 Environmental Considerations / Conditions The major environmental issues are noise, generation of hazardous wastes including used oil and the following environmental conditions shall be observed: (i) All electric motors such as compressors shall be housed in soundproof enclosures to keep noise level within permissible limits as per the Environment Protection (Environmental Standards for Noise) Regulations 1997. The noise exposure limits as per the above regulation are as follows: Industrial noise Neighbourhood noise 7:00 21:00 60*dB(A) Leq 7:00-18:00 60 db(a) Leq 21:00 7:00 55*dB(A) Leq 18:00-21:00 55 db(a) Leq 21:00-7:00 50 db(a) Leq * A tonal character adjustment of +5 db(a) should be applied to the measured value where the noise has a definite continuous note such as a whine or hiss. (ii) Hazardous wastes including used oil shall be collected and disposed as per Environment Protection (Standards for Hazardous Wastes) Regulations 2001. (iii) Used oil shall be collected and disposed of as per the Environment Protection (Collection, Storage, Treatment, Use and Disposal of Used Oil) Regulations 2005. (iv) All petroleum products, used oil and other chemical must have secondary containment. Areas enclosed by secondary containment shall be maintained, and all accumulated water within secondary containment areas should be disposed 2
of. The secondary containment shall have a storage capacity of 110 % of the capacity of the storage tank. (v) A contingency plan as provided for under section 30 (3)(a) of the Environment Protection Act 2002 shall be prepared and implemented to combat any case of accidental spillage of fuel or chemicals. (vi) All solid wastes generated from the bus depot shall be collected and disposed of. (vii) Wastewaters shall be collected, treated and disposed of. (viii) No nuisance by way of noise dust, air pollution shall be caused to the public and surrounding environment during site preparation, infrastructural works and during operation of the activity. (ix) The Department of Environment of the Ministry of Environment and NDU shall be informed in writing of the dates of commencement of works on site and operation of the activity for monitoring purposes. 6.0 Enforcement Under Section 13 of the Environment Protection Act 2002, the enforcing agencies for the different environmental medium or pollutants are as follows: S. No Environmental media/ pollutant Enforcing Agency 1 Noise, odour Ministry of Health and Quality of Life 2 Effluents Ministry of Public Utilities 3 Solid wastes, hazardous wastes Ministry of Local Government 4 Fuel spillage Ministry of Environment The above-mentioned enforcing agencies shall monitor compliance with the conditions falling under their purview. 7.0 Offences Any person who fails to comply with any regulations/standards referred to in this guideline shall commit an offence and shall: (i) on a first conviction, be liable to a fine not exceeding 50, 000 rupees and to imprisonment for a term not exceeding two years. (ii) on a second or subsequent conviction, be liable to a fine not exceeding 100,000 rupees and to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 8 years. 3
For further information, please contact Information Counter, Department of Environment, Ground Floor Ken Lee Tower, 1, St Georges Street Port-Louis Tel: 203 6200-203 6210 Website: http://environment.gov.mu Email : menv@mail.gov.mu 4
MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND NDU ENVIRONMENTAL GUIDELINE No. 5 BAKERY 1.0 Purpose of guideline This environmental guideline for bakery has been prepared by the Ministry of Environment & NDU to ensure that all environmental issues are duly taken into consideration by stakeholders. 2.0 Nature of development The activities involved in a bakery are mainly storage of raw materials, mixing, fermentation, baking, sale and delivery of bread. Equipment used usually include electrically driven oven, mixer, dough moulder, divider, water cooler and stand-by generator. Bakeries can vary widely in scale and size - from small shop bakeries to in-store supermarket bakeries to very large scale bakeries. 3.0 Potential impacts The major environmental nuisances associated with a bakery are noise, air pollution and effluent disposal. The different aspects, impacts and nuisances related to such activities are listed below:- Activity Aspects Impacts/ Nuisances Construction phase Site preparation / - Generation of excavated soil -Dumping into barelands, construction of, debris and construction water bodies and drains buildings wastes ( where applicable) Operation phase All activities from storage of raw materials, mixing, fermentation, baking, packaging, to sale of bread - Use of heavy machinery - Use of electric motors, extractors - Type and volume of fuel - Improper handling and storage of fuel -Dust, noise and mud -Visual impacts - Noise - Air pollution - Risks of fuel spillage
- Washing of floor, equipment and utensils - Loading and unloading of raw materials and bread - Sale and delivery of bread - Generation of solid wastes e.g plastic, jute / gunny bags, carton boxes, unsold and spoilt bread - Poor housekeeping -Wastewater generation - Inadequate parking facilities - Vehicular movement - Fire hazards - Dumping into barelands, water bodies and drains - Land and water pollution -Insects / pests/ rodents - Odour - Health hazards(hygiene) - Risks of pollution of water courses -Traffic implications - Noise 4.0 Siting of activity Bakery shall be located in commercial areas. 5.0 Environmental Conditions The major environmental issues are noise, air pollution and effluent disposal and the following conditions shall be observed: (i) All electric motors such as stand-by generator and air- conditioning devices shall be housed in soundproof enclosures to keep noise level within permissible limits as per the Environment Protection (Environmental Standards for Noise) Regulations 1997. The noise exposure limits as per the above regulation are as follows: Industrial noise Neighbourhood noise 7:00 21:00 60*dB(A) Leq 7:00 18:00 60 db(a) Leq 21:00 7:00 55*dB(A) Leq 18:00-21:00 55 db(a) Leq 21:00 7:00 50 db(a) Leq 2
* A tonal character adjustment of +5 db(a) should be applied to the measured value where the noise has a definite continuous note such as a whine or hiss. (ii) (iii) Flue and odorous gases shall be channeled through ducts connected to a chimney stack which shall be designed as per good engineering practices. All gaseous emissions from the bakery shall be within permissible limits as per the Environment Protection (Standards for Air) Regulations 1998. The stack emissions standards applicable to this undertaking are: Pollutant Standard (i) Smoke Ringelmann No. 2 or equivalent opacity (not to exceed more that 5 minutes in any period of one hour) (ii) Solid particles 200 mg/ m 3 (iii) Sulphuric acid mist 120 mg/ m 3 as sulphur trioxide or sulphur trioxide (iv) Hydrogen sulphide 5 ppm as hydrogen sulphide gas (v) Nitric acid or oxides of nitrogen 1 000 mg/ m 3 as nitrogen dioxide (vi) Carbon monoxide 1 000 mg/ m 3 as carbon monoxide (iv) (v) (vi) (vii) All solid wastes generated from the bakery shall be collected and disposed of. Wastewaters shall be collected and disposed of. No nuisance by way of noise dust, air pollution shall be caused to the public and surrounding environment during site preparation, infrastructural works and during operation of the activity. The Department of Environment of the Ministry of Environment and NDU shall be informed in writing of the dates of commencement of works on site and operation of the activity for monitoring purposes. 6.0 Enforcement Under Section 13 of the Environment Protection Act 2002, the enforcing agencies for the different environmental medium or pollutants are as follows: 3
S. No Environmental media/ pollutant Enforcing Agency 1 Noise, odour Ministry of Health and Quality of Life 2 Effluents Ministry of Public Utilities 3 Solid wastes Ministry of Local Government 4 Air pollution Ministry of Environment The above-mentioned enforcing agencies shall monitor compliance with the conditions falling under their purview. 7.0 Offences Any person who fails to comply with any regulations/standards referred to in this guideline shall commit an offence and shall: (i) on a first conviction, be liable to a fine not exceeding 50, 000 rupees and to imprisonment for a term not exceeding two years. (ii) on a second or subsequent conviction, be liable to a fine not exceeding 100,000 rupees and to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 8 years. For further information, please contact Information Counter, Department of Environment, Ground Floor Ken Lee Tower, 1, St Georges Street Port-Louis Tel: 203 6200-2036210 Website: http://environment.gov.mu Email : menv@mail.gov.mu 4
MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND NDU ENVIRONMENTAL GUIDELINE No. 6 DEMOLITION OF BUILDINGS 1.0 Purpose of guideline This environmental guideline for demolition of buildings has been prepared by the Ministry of Environment & NDU to ensure that all environmental issues are duly taken into consideration by stakeholders. 2.0 Nature of development Demolition of buildings usually refers to the act of pulling down a building or part of a building. There can be various reasons for demolition, namely: (i) (ii) (iii) (iv) (v) when the buildings do not fit the requirements in terms of facilities and working environment for refurbishment/renovation of buildings and hotels replacement of the derelict buildings by new ones when derelict buildings present an eyesore for elimination of dangerous buildings that pose safety threat to public and the surrounding environment 3.0 Potential impacts The hazards and environmental impacts associated with demolition works are mainly a function of:- (i) (ii) (iii) (iv) (v) The location of the demolition work, i.e. whether demolition is near to main road or whether demolition is far away from development and movement The type of building being demolished i.e. concrete, iron sheets, etc The method of demolition i.e. manually using hand tools; mechanically using heavy machinery including electric grinders, pneumatic compressors, excavator on trucks and lorries; or by induced collapse demolition using explosives The scale of the project i.e. the area of building being demolished and amount of solid wastes, dust and traffic being generated The duration of the demolition work 1
Potential environmental impacts in connection with demolition works are:- Noise and vibration Dust Traffic implications Generation of demolition wastes including doors, windows, wood and metal frames ; concrete rubbles and blocks, corrugated iron sheets, asbestos cement sheets, etc Visual and aesthetic impacts 4.0 Siting of activity Not applicable 5.0 Environmental conditions The major environmental issues are noise and dust and the following conditions shall be observed: (i) (ii) (iii) The demolition works shall be taken not any nuisance by way of noise, dust and vibration to the surrounding environment. The site of works shall be fenced and screened to protect site from strong winds and to contain dust. The noise level during demolition works shall be within the permissible limits as per the Environment Protection (Environmental Standards for Noise) Regulations 1997. The noise exposure limits as per the above regulation are as follows: Industrial noise Neighbourhood noise 7:00 21:00 60*dB(A) Leq 7:00 18:00 60 db(a) Leq 21:00 7:00 55*dB(A) Leq 18:00-21:00 55 db(a) Leq 21:00 7:00 50 db(a) Leq * A tonal character adjustment of +5 db(a) should be applied to the measured value where the noise has a definite continuous note such as a whine or hiss. (iv) (v) All hazardous wastes, including asbestos shall be disposed of as per the provisions of Environment Protection (Standards for Hazardous wastes) Regulations 2001. The following measures shall be taken so as to abate the visual impacts during demolition works: Visual screening / fencing of works 2
(vi) (vii) (viii) (ix) Proper location of equipment and machinery on site No encroachment of demolition wastes on pavements and roads Demolition works within residential areas shall be carried out during normal working hours (8:00 17:00) only. The demolition wastes shall be used as filler material. Any excess wastes shall be disposed of to an authorized site as recommended by the Ministry of Local Government. No debris shall be burned on the site. The Department of Environment of the Ministry of Environment and NDU shall be informed in writing of the dates of commencement of works on site and operation of the activity for monitoring purposes. 6.0 Enforcement Under Section 13 of the Environment Protection Act 2002, the enforcing agencies for the different environmental medium or pollutants are as follows: S. No Environmental media/ pollutant Enforcing Agency 1 Noise Ministry of Health and Quality of Life 2 Solid wastes, hazardous wastes Ministry of Local Government 3 Air pollution Ministry of Environment The above-mentioned enforcing agencies shall monitor compliance with the conditions falling under their purview. 7.0 Offences Any person who fails to comply with any regulations/standards referred to in this guideline shall commit an offence and shall: (i) on a first conviction, be liable to a fine not exceeding 50, 000 rupees and to imprisonment for a term not exceeding two years. (ii) on a second or subsequent conviction, be liable to a fine not exceeding 100,000 rupees and to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 8 years. 3