appendix r: noise impact assessment...

SLR Consulting (Africa) (Pty) Ltd

SLR Ref. 710.21002.00036 Report No.1

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PROGRAMME REPORT

FOR CHANGES TO OPERATIONS AT UMK MINE October 2017

Page R

APPENDIX R: NOISE IMPACT ASSESSMENT REPORT

Noise Study Report G1306 Van Zyl BG

Ben van Zyl MSc (Eng) PhD

T/A Acusolv

Tel: 012 807 4924

P O Box 70596 Fax: 086 508 1122

Die Wilgers [email protected]

0041 542 Verkenner Ave � Die Wilgers � Pretoria

Report G1306 Updated: 17-Mar-2017

Changes to Operations at UMK Mine

EIA Amendment

Noise Study

Prepared by: Ben van Zyl MSc (Eng) PhD Acoustical Engineer

For: United Manganese of Kalahari (Pty) Ltd

Executive Summary A noise study was carried out in support of an Environmental Impact Assessment Amendment undertaken by SLR Consulting (Africa) (Pty) Ltd to assess the expected noise impact of the proposed UMK Project on residents in the surrounding area. The impact under consideration is the expected change in ambient noise level (incremental impact) as a result of proposed changes and expansions of UMK operations in terms of the Project plan. The cumulative impact of UMK Mine is also considered. UMK Project Noise Impact The study finds that the extent of the incremental noise impact resulting from the proposed UMK Project changes and expansions is localised to a space well within the mining rights boundary. UMK Project noise in the operation phase will not bring about a discernible change in the existing ambient level outside the mining rights boundaries. It will not be audible above existing noise and will have a negligible (zero) impact on residents in the study area. UMK Cumulative Noise Impact Existing UMK mining activities are estimated to have a 5 dB cumulative noise impact footprint extending to distances of up to 3 km, measured from the main (broadly north-south) axis of UMK operations. Introduction of the proposed Project changes and expansions will not make any difference; it will have no discernible effect on the shape or extent of the existing noise footprint. No receptor in the external surroundings falls inside the 5 dB significant impact footprint of existing operations. Perth farm residence is located inside the 3 to 5 dB zone, where the impact is rated as Moderate. The only measure which will effectively mitigate this impact would be to restrict operations

ACOUSTIC CONSULTING ENGINEER

UMK MINE


2

(truck movements, reverse alarms, dumping and dozing) on the northern dump to daytime hours 06h00 to 22h00. Cumulative Noise Impact of all Mines in the Area Collectively, noise produced by all mines in the area have a significant (5 dB) cumulative noise impact footprint extending to distances of up to 5 km to the west and up to 3,5 km to the east of the R380 provincial road. The extent of the footprint east of the R380 is determined primarily by road and rail traffic, dominated by trucks transporting mined products. The overall cumulative noise impact on the farm Perth north of UMK Mine is determined primarily by truck transport traffic on the R380 provincial road, truck movements on the private D3340 road and by noise produced by Sebilo mining activities to the west. UMK Mine does not currently contribute to road transport traffic noise generated on the section of the R380 north of the mine’s access road, or to noise produced by trucks on the D3340 road.


Acoustical Engineer


Index

Definitions and Acronyms 6

2014 EIA Regulations Appendix 6 7

Requirements for Specialist Reports 7

1 PROJECT DESCRIPTION 1

1.1 EXISTING UMK MINING OPERATIONS 1

1.2 PROPOSED CHANGES TO UMK MINING OPERATIONS 2

1.3 EIA BY SLR 2

2 NOISE STUDY OVERVIEW 4

2.1 NOISE SPECIALIST 4

2.1.1 TERMS OF REFERENCE 4

2.1.2 SPECIALIST DETAILS 4

2.1.3 QUALIFICATIONS 4

2.1.4 DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE 4

2.2 SCOPE OF NOISE STUDY 5

2.3 NOISE STUDY AREA 5

3 METHODOLOGY 7

3.1 NOISE STUDY GUIDELINE STANDARD 7

3.2 BASELINE ASSESSMENT METHODOLOGY 7

3.2.1 OBJECTIVE 7

3.2.2 SOURCES OF BASELINE DATA 7

3.2.3 SELECTION OF BASELINE MONITORING LOCATIONS 7

3.2.4 METEOROLOGICAL CONSIDERATIONS 8

3.2.5 UMK 2017 AMBIENT NOISE SURVEY 9

3.2.6 TEST EQUIPMENT 9

3.2.7 BASELINE ASSESSMENT 12

3.3 PREDICTIVE NOISE IMPACT ASSESSMENT METHODOLOGY 12

4 PROJECT DESCRIPTION 13

4.1 PROJECT EXTENT 13

4.2 LAYOUT 13

4.3 PROJECT ACTIVITIES AND INFRASTRUCTURE 15

4.3.1 CONSTRUCTION PHASE 15

4.3.2 OPERATION PHASE 18

4.3.3 DECOMMISSIONING AND CLOSURE 23

5 SOURCES OF NOISE 25

5.1 SOURCES OF NOISE IN THE CONSTRUCTION PHASE 25

5.2 SOURCES OF NOISE IN THE OPERATION PHASE 25

5.2.1 SOURCES OF NOISE – PIT OPERATIONS 25

5.2.2 SOURCES OF NOISE – DUMP OPERATIONS 27

UMK MINE


4

5.2.3 SOURCES OF NOISE – PROCESSING PLANT 27

5.2.4 THE NET CHARACTER OF OVERALL NOISE 28

6 LEGAL FRAMEWORK 29

6.1 SOUTH AFRICAN NOISE REGULATIONS 29

6.1.1 BACKGROUND 29

6.1.2 PROHIBITIONS 29

6.2 SANS 10103 - ACCEPTABLE AMBIENT LEVELS 31

7 RESULTS AND FINDINGS – EXISTING AMBIENT LEVELS 33

7.1 EXISTING STATE OF THE ENVIRONMENT 33

7.2 REFERENCE AMBIENT LEVELS 36

7.3 RECOMMENDED LIMITS 36

8 RESULTS AND FINDINGS – PREDICTIVE IMPACT ASSESSMENT 37

8.1 CONSTRUCTION PHASE NOISE IMPACT 37

8.2 OPERATION PHASE NOISE IMPACT 37

8.2.1 DEFINITIONS ASSUMPTIONS AND UNCERTAINTIES 37

8.2.2 PRESENTATION OF RESULTS 41

8.2.3 FINDINGS - UMK OPERATION NOISE IMPACTS 42

8.2.4 FINDINGS - CUMULATIVE IMPACTS 42

8.3 DECOMMISSIONING PHASE IMPACTS 44

8.4 CLOSURE PHASE IMPACTS 44

Noise Maps 45

Unmitigated Project and Cumulative Noise Impacts 45

9 MITIGATION 49

9.1 CONSTRUCTION NOISE 49

9.2 OPERATION NOISE 49

9.3 DECOMMISSIONING PHASE 49

9.4 CLOSURE PHASE 49

10 SUMMARY AND RATING OF NOISE IMPACTS 50

10.1 INTENSITY AND SPATIAL EXTENT OF IMPACT 50

10.1.1 UMK PROJECT NOISE 50

10.1.2 UMK MINE CUMULATIVE NOISE 50

10.2 NOISE ISSUES RAISED BY IAP’S 50

10.3 NOISE IMPACT RATINGS 51

11 EMP NOISE MONITORING AND MANAGEMENT 53

12 REFERENCES 53

Appendix A 54

UMK MINE


5

Noise Survey Detailed Analyses 54

Curriculum Vitae 57


Definitions and Acronyms

Acoustic terminology

Term Label Unit Definition A-weighting Frequency-dependent weighting applied to

band-filtered or spectral sound levels, corresponding to the frequency characteristics of human hearing

A-weighted level LA dBA A-weighted sound pressure or sound power

level dBA A-weighted unit of magnitude on a logarithmic

scale Decibel dB Unit of sound magnitude on a logarithmic scale

defined as 10 log (f{W}/Wo) f{W} is proportional to the acoustic power or intensity of the sound or noise Wo is a power or intensity reference

Sound or Noise Level L, LP dB Pressure Level representing the magnitude of

the sound or noise on the decibel scale Sound Power Level LW dB Sound Power Level [dB] defined as

10 log (W/W0) where W is the sound power [W], P0 = 10 pW, the international standard reference of sound power

Sound Pressure Level

LP dB Magnitude of sound or noise [dB] defined as 10 log (P2/P0

2) where

P is the sound pressure [Pa], P0 = 20 µPa, the international standard reference of sound pressure

Equivalent continuous level

Leq,T dB The average level of a sound or noise determined by integrating and averaging the acoustic energy over a measurement period T The level of a sound with constant amplitude which would have the same average over time T

A-weighted equivalent continuous sound level

LAeq dBA Average level of a sound or noise determined by integrating and averaging the A-weighted acoustic energy over a measurement period T


2014 EIA Regulations Appendix 6

Requirements for Specialist Reports

2014 EIA Regulations Appendix 6 Cross Reference to

Clause Requirement Noise Report Section

1 (a) Specialist details Section 2.1.2

Specialist qualifications and expertise Section 2.1.3; Appendix B

(b) Declaration of independence Section 2.1.4

(c) Scope and purpose of report Section 2.2

(d) Date and season of investigation Section 3.2.5

Relevance of season to outcome Section 3.2.4

(e) Methodology Chapter 3

(f) Sensitivity related to activities Section 8.1, Section 8.2.3

(g) Avoidance and buffer requirements N/A

(h) Map showing activities and sensitivities Section 7.1 Fig 7-2

(i) Assumptions, uncertainties and gaps Section 8.2.1

(j) Findings, potential implications and impact Chapter 8

(k) Mitigation measures for inclusion in EMPR Chapter 9

(l) Conditions for inclusion in authorisation N/A

(m) Monitoring requirements for inclusion in EMPR Chapter 11

(n) Reasoned opinion Chapter 10

(o) Consultation process N/A

(p) Copies of comments received N/A

(q) Other information requested by authority N/A

2 Pre-assessment conducted N/A

UMK PROJECT Page 1 of 75


1 Project Description 1.1 Existing UMK Mining Operations

United Manganese of Kalahari (Pty) Ltd (UMK) owns and operates an opencast manganese mine near Hotazel in the Kuruman region. As shown on the regional map in Figure 1-1, the site is located in the John Taolo Gaetsewe District Municipality and the Joe Morolong Local Municipality, approximately 80 km north west of Kuruman, 21 km south east of Black Rock, 42 km north of Kathu and 13 km south of Hotazel in the Northern Cape Province. The mine lies directly adjacent to and west of the R380 provincial road. The mine consists of open-pit mining sections, crushing and screening operations, run of mine (ROM) stockpiles, waste rock and product stockpile dumps, and associated support and administrative infrastructure. Mining activities currently include conventional truck and shovel opencast operations, topsoil stripping and stockpiling, blast hole drilling, blasting, dozing, excavation and loading. It also involves haulage of ROM ore from pits to crushing plants and haulage of waste material to waste dumps.

Figure 1-1

Regional Setting of UMK Mine



1.2 Proposed Changes to UMK Mining Operations UMK is applying for an amendment to cater for changes to infrastructure and for proposed expansions of mine pit and waste rock dump operations. During the construction phase of the UMK Mine, the location and design of certain infrastructure components changed from what was approved in the EIA and EMP to support efficiency within the operations. Further to this, UMK proposes the expansion of the mine pit, waste rock dumps, product stockpiles and crushing operations. Support and administrative infrastructure either existing on site or still to be implemented includes: road truck parking area (hard park); conveyors; weighbridge; internal power lines; storm water controls and water holding facilities; fuel farm and storage facilities; administrative offices, stores, contractors yard (including water and diesel storage facilities), change house and clinic; sewage treatment plant; bioremediation facility; salvage yard and temporary waste storage area (including waste tyres); workshops and wash bay; railway line and load-out-station; possible future sinter plant siding; possible emergency access point/escape route and internal access, maintenance and haul roads; core yard; laboratory and preparatory laboratory; and topsoil stockpiles. Project locality and a site layout plan of existing and future operations are shown in Figure 1-2.

1.3 EIA by SLR

SLR Consulting (Africa) (Pty) Ltd (SLR) has been appointed as the independent environmental practitioner (EAP) responsible for undertaking the necessary environmental assessment and public participation process for the Project. Environmental authorisation is required from various government departments, as follows:

• Amendment of an EMP in terms of the MPRDA regulated by the DMR.

• Environmental authorisation from the DMR in terms of the NEMA. The project incorporates several listed environmental activities. The EIA regulations being followed for this project are Government Notice Regulation (GNR) 982 of 4 December 2014 (EIA Regulations).

• A waste management license from the DMR in terms of the National Environmental Management Waste Act, 2008 (NEM:WA, No 59 of 2008).

• Amendment of the water use license in terms of the NWA which is regulated by the DWS.



Figure 1-2

UMK Locality and Site Layout Plan



2 Noise Study Overview

2.1 Noise Specialist 2.1.1 Terms of Reference

Noise from the proposed changes and expansions of UMK mining operations (the UMK Project) may affect ambient noise in the surrounding area where the existing level is already elevated to a variable extent by noise from existing mining operations, traffic on the public road network and railway traffic. Acusolv was appointed to undertake a noise study to investigate the noise implications of the proposed Project and to consider the requirements and options for mitigation.

2.1.2 Specialist Details

Details of the specialist who carried out the noise study and compiled this report, are summarised in Table 2-1.

Table 2-1

Details of Noise Specialist

Name of practitioner: Ben van Zyl Acoustical Engineer

Tel No: 012 807 4924

Fax No: 086 508 1122

Postal Address: P O Box 70596, Die Wilgers, 0041

E-mail address: [email protected]

2.1.3 Qualifications

Ben van Zyl is a noise specialist in private practice based in Pretoria, South Africa. He holds Masters and PhD degrees in acoustical engineering and has more than 30 years experience in environmental acoustics, including baseline, annual and diagnostic noise monitoring; noise impact assessment, noise problem solving and design for noise reduction in the mining and other industries. A personal curriculum vitae in support of qualifications, expertise and experience to undertake studies of this nature, is attached in Appendix B.

2.1.4 Declaration of Independence

As a single proprietor and independent noise specialist, Ben van Zyl has no commercial interest in the UMK Project or United Manganese of Kalahari (Pty) Ltd, other than fair payment for consulting services rendered as part of the EIA process.



2.2 Scope of Noise Study

The proposed UMK Project may result in an increase in ambient noise levels already affected by existing operations at UMK Mine, by road traffic, railway infrastructure, as well as operations at other mines in the area. Since the primary concern is the potential impact of the UMK Project on the external surroundings, baseline and impact assessments in this noise study focus on existing conditions and on the possible deterioration in the noise climate for people living in the immediate surroundings outside the mineral rights boundary of the mine.

The scope of work required in support of the EIA, involves the following tasks:

A Scoping and Baseline Assessment A noise survey was carried out to sample, monitor and establish ratings for existing

day and night-time ambient noise levels in the external surroundings of UMK Mine. The results so obtained, are employed as reference ambient levels in the modelling and prediction of UMK Project impacts.

B Predictive Noise Impact Study

The predictive study quantifies and assesses the expected noise impact of the Project. Estimation of noise levels and of noise impacts is based on modelling of the emission and atmospheric propagation of noise generated by the main Project components and activities. Incremental impacts are referenced to existing ambient noise ratings derived in the baseline study. Cumulative impacts are referenced to conditions defined in the sections dealing with such impacts.

This report describes the methodology and presents the findings of the noise study. 2.3 Noise Study Area

The focus in this noise study is on the area shown on the map in Figure 2-1. Map limits defining the study area were adjusted to extend well beyond worst-case noise footprints and beyond all known noise receptors potentially located within estimated reach of audible mining activity noises. The nearest noise receptor pointed out by the UMK environmental officer familiar with the area, are the residences and offices on farm Perth 276, approximately 1,5 km north of the mine. The map also shows other locations further away, identified by inspection of satellite images. The type of land-use and state of occupation of buildings at these other locations are unknown, but they are much further (4 to 5 km) away from UMK Mine and unlikely to be impacted by the Project. Maximum noise impact is likely to occur at Residence Perth, the receptor nearest to the proposed UMK Project components and activities.



Figure 2-1

Noise Study Area



3 Methodology 3.1 Noise Study Guideline Standard The UMK Project noise study was carried out in accordance with SANS 10328 [1], a South

African Standard presenting guidelines on procedures for conducting noise assessments.

3.2 Baseline Assessment Methodology 3.2.1 Objective The objective of the UMK baseline study was to establish the current ambient noise baseline,

prior to implementation of the proposed changes and expansions. Data obtained from field scoping and measurement surveys, in conjunction with noise modelling, was used to map ambient noise and to derive reference ratings required for modelling and assessment of the Project’s noise impact.

3.2.2 Sources of Baseline Data

A comprehensive overview of the ambient noise climate in the area was obtained from the following sources of information: (a) A 24-hour survey was carried out at the nearest noise receptor (Perth).

(b) Ambient noise was sampled by means of short duration (10 minute) measurements of

daytime ambient noise levels at various locations throughout the study area. Measurements were taken on roadsides in the absence of any prominently audible noise from nearby approaching, passing or receding vehicles.

(c) Noise modelling, accounting for the contributions of traffic noise from public roads and noise from existing mining activities, was used in conjunction with field measurement data to generate a baseline ambient noise map depicting the ambient noise profile of the entire study area.

Using the composite ambient noise profile (as delineated by contours on the baseline map) as reference, Project noise impact footprints were computed by modelling of existing and future mining noise emissions in the predictive impact assessment. Noise contour maps derived in this way facilitate assessment of the Project’s impact on any property or noise receptor in the study area.

3.2.3 Selection of Baseline Monitoring Locations Principles and good practice considerations applied in the selection of suitable locations for

sampling and detailed monitoring of ambient noise levels, include the following:

• Worst-case impact: Focus on areas where maximum noise impact is expected. This usually includes receptor locations nearest to the primary sources of noise.

• Suitability for future surveys: As far as possible, select locations likely to be accessible

in future surveys.



• Avoid interference: As far as practically possible, stay clear of and avoid interference by proximity sources of noise which may distort the data. Examples are power distribution boxes, barking dogs, speech interference and insects.

3.2.4 Meteorological Considerations

Relevance of Weather and Atmospheric Conditions Rain, drizzle or fog may generate noise on the microphone and affect the conductivity of measurement microphones, resulting in faulty readings. Although measurement often has to be performed in the presence of wind, care should be taken to verify that wind turbulence noise on the microphone capsule is negligible compared to the sound level under investigation. There is no fixed upper limit for permissible wind speed; it all depends on the level being measured. Another weather phenomenon which may cause interference and distort measurement data, is thunder. Meteorological conditions also affect the acoustic environment and sound levels without causing interference or measurement error. Normal fluctuations in atmospheric conditions may cause large variations in noise level which cannot and need not be avoided in the planning and execution of noise monitoring surveys. Such variations constitute the natural variance in both background and intrusive noise levels. Noise levels at a distance from large sources are highly dependent on meteorological conditions. In fact, the difference in characteristic day and night meteorological patterns is one reason why 24-hour mining or industrial operations invariably have much higher noise impacts at night1. Relevance of season The season during which any particular ambient noise survey is conducted, is in itself of little or no consequence. Much more significant, are wide-ranging, random short-term fluctuations in ambient levels as a result of variations in weather and atmospheric conditions. These short-term fluctuations will also reflect in ambient levels measured in consecutive surveys conducted in different seasons and are often mistaken for and ascribed to seasonal variances. Variances in long distance propagation and dispersion of noise and the resulting noise levels do not depend on temperature per se; but on vertical temperature gradient profiles in the atmosphere (changes in temperature as a function of height). Moreover, the end result is not determined by conditions at either the source, nor the receptor or monitoring point. It is determined by the variable profile in the lower atmosphere along the entire propagation path between source and receiver. In other words, noise levels at large distances from a source are determined by spatial atmospheric patterns along the propagation path; not by conditions at the receptor only, and not by the absolute day or night temperature or the season of the year. The same principle applies to wind: noise levels are influenced by wind direction and wind gradient with height above the ground, along the propagation path, rather than wind speed measured at any particular point on the ground. It should also be noted that, for the reasons explained above, the monitoring of meteorological conditions, such as temperature, wind and humidity on the ground can at best only serve to avoid errors and distortion of measurement data. Knowledge of cloud cover, temperature, humidity and wind which prevailed during the course of a noise survey has little if any value in the post-processing and interpretation of data. To the contrary, noise modelling

1 The other main reason is the increased community sensitivity at night due to a natural decline in road traffic and

human activity noise.



and computations made in the prediction of impacts must clearly state the assumptions made with regard to meteorological conditions for which the predictions would be valid.

3.2.5 UMK 2017 Ambient Noise Survey

Baseline scoping and ambient noise surveys were carried out in summer during the period 23 to 24 Jan 20172. An assessment was made of habitation, the physical landscape, topography and vegetation. A 24-hour ambient noise survey was made at the residence and offices on the farm Perth (M1), the noise receptor nearest to UMK Mine. This survey enabled determination of day and night-time averages of the ambient level. A more detailed rendering of the noise profile and of the variation in noise level with time was also obtained by logging and analyzing noise in a sequence of 10-minute intervals. For purposes of confirming the operational status of the mine during the course of the survey, a monitoring station was also set up at the UMK security gate (M2).

In addition to abovementioned detailed long duration survey, ambient noise was probed by

sampling of daytime ambient levels in the area. The map in Figure 3-1 shows locations M1 and M2 where the 24 hour surveys were carried out, as well as the sampling locations indicated by the encircled “S” symbols.

3.2.6 Test Equipment

Measurement data obtained in the detailed surveys was processed to obtain time-variable profiles of ambient noise levels. Using audio recordings made during the survey, it was possible to listen to the actual noises which occurred at any time, to identify sources of noise, to correlate audible noise events with data and to filter out distorted data. Noise Level Measurements

Field measurements were carried out using the following equipment: (a) Brüel & Kjaer Type 2260 Modular Precision Sound Analyser (Ser no. 1875497) (b) Brüel & Kjaer Type 4189 Measurement Microphone (Ser no. 1858498) (c) Brüel & Kjaer Type 4231 Sound Calibrator (Ser no. 2606011)

Equipment conformed to IEC 61673-1 Electro-Acoustics – Sound Level Meters – Part 1: Specifications. Calibration: National Metrology Institute of SA Certificate No AV\AS-4251-R National Metrology Institute of SA Certificate No AV\AS-0008

Data Logging Equipment

(a) RS1 Acoustic Data Logger (Serial no. 200109647)

(b) RS2 Acoustic Data Logger (Serial no. 200114547)

2 As explained in Section 3.2.4, the season during which a noise survey is undertaken, is of little relevance.

Ambient noise fluctuations are caused by short-term day-night and day-to-day fluctuations in atmospheric temperature and wind profiles, rather than seasonal fluctuations.



Figure 3-1

2017 UMK Baseline ambient noise survey and sampling locations

Surveys at M1 and M2: Continuous logging over 24 hour day-night cycle

Samples (s): Short duration (10 min) samples of daytime levels only

M1 Farm house Perth M2 UMK security gate reference point



3.2.7 Baseline Assessment

Although measurements covered daytime periods as well, when considering the noise impact of any 24-hour operation, it is for all practical purposes only the night-time results that matter. Night-time, when people are normally sleeping, is when the environment is by far the most sensitive to intrusive noise and when maximum impact is experienced. Hence, in the assessment of noise produced by 24-hour operations, the focus is on night-time conditions.

3.3 Predictive Noise Impact Assessment Methodology Calculation of noise propagation and dispersion in the UMK Project study is based on the

principles of the Concawe method. CONCAWE (Conservation of Clear air and water in Europe) is an organisation established by a group of oil companies in 1963. A noise propagation model developed by CONCAWE [3] has been validated over and over and has internationally become one of the most widely used methods in the simulation of small and large sources of noise and in the prediction of noise for purposes of environmental noise impact assessment [4], [5]. This method has been adopted in South African Standard SANS 10357:2000 [6].

Caution

Noise predictions and noise maps derived from acoustic modelling must be interpreted with caution. Even if the accuracy of an acoustic model is good, predicted levels are valid for the specific assumptions made in respect of meteorological and other conditions. Since meteorological conditions are highly variable, levels produced at a distance by a source at a constant acoustic output will vary considerably, even during the course of a single day-time or night-time period. Variance in noise level due to changes in atmospheric conditions increases with distance from the source. It should also be borne in mind that noise propagation is not only affected by distance and wind direction, but by temperature gradients in the atmosphere as well. Noise contours calculated for the UMK Project represent best estimates of continuous operation noise levels averaged over a relatively long duration, in this case the nominal daytime and night-time periods of 16 hours and 8 hours, respectively.



4 Project Description 4.1 Project Extent

In broad terms, the UMK Project will involve the following:

• Changes in the location and design of approved infrastructure components;

• Expansion of the mining operations;

• Support and administrative infrastructure either existing on site or still to be implemented.

4.2 Layout

Figure 4-1 shows the current footprint of UMK mining operations, as well as outlines of the proposed pit and waste dump changes and expansions.



Figure 4-1

Layout of Existing UMK Operations and of Proposed future Changes and Expansions



4.3 Project Activities and Infrastructure The following sections describe changes and expansions still to be implemented in terms of the UMK Project.

4.3.1 Construction Phase

Construction Activities The following activities are expected to take place during construction:

• Clearing of vegetation in accordance with the relevant vegetation management procedures;

• Stripping and stockpiling of soil resources and earthworks in accordance with the relevant soil conservation procedures;

• Sourcing of material for construction;

• Establishment and installation of water management facilities;

• Establishment of additional internal haul roads. Construction Infrastructure and Facilities Construction phase facilities could include:

• Contractor’s laydown area(s);

• Workshops and maintenance area for servicing and maintaining equipment and vehicles;

• Temporary waste collection and storage area;

• Store for fuel, lubricants, solvents, paint and construction substances;

• Soil stockpiles;

• Water management infrastructure;

• Emergency access point from the D3340 road and internal access, maintenance and haul roads;

These facilities would either be removed at the end of the construction phase or incorporated into the layout of the operational mine. Transport System Roads Access to the mine is via an existing tarred road from the R380 provincial road. This access point will be used during construction. In the case of emergencies, alternative access will be provided via the existing D3340 private gravel road that links to the R380. Additional project traffic will be generated (increased of ~ 20%) during the construction phase, mainly for the delivery of construction materials to, removal of construction waste from and transport of



construction workers to and from site. The project’s trip generation and traffic loads will be provided in the EIA report. Water Supply and Management Potable and construction water

During the construction phase, potable water will be sourced from the mine’s supply of water from the Vaal Gamagara water pipeline operated by Sedibeng Water. Sufficient capacity is expected to be available to support the construction phase; to be confirmed in the EIA and EMP. Power Supply and Use Power will be sourced from the mine’s existing Eskom supply. The alternative of generators is also being investigated. Sufficient capacity is expected to be available to support the construction phase; to be confirmed in the EIA and EMP. Non-mineralised Waste Management Domestic and industrial waste Facilities for the temporary storage of non-mineralised waste exist on site. The types of waste that could be generated during the construction phase include: hazardous industrial waste (such as packaging for hazardous materials, used oil, lubricants), general industrial waste (such as scrap metal, contaminated wood and building rubble), and domestic waste (such as packaging and food waste). These wastes will be temporarily handled and stored on site within the mine’s existing waste management system before being removed for recycling by suppliers and approved waste handling companies, for re-use by scrap dealers or final disposal at permitted waste disposal facilities in the area. Sewage Construction workers will make use of existing ablution facilities linked to the existing sewage treatment plant on site. Employment and Housing An estimated 120 employment opportunities will be available during the construction phase. No housing will be provided on site as construction workers will be accommodated in the nearby towns of Hotazel, Black Rock, Kathu or Kuruman. Operating Hours It is anticipated that the construction phase will consist of one shift per day from 06h00 to 18h00 from Monday to Saturdays. In the instance where emergency action or critical activities are required, motivation will be provided for the extension of the construction hours. Timing Provided the required authorisations are obtained, construction is expected to commence towards the end of 2017 and take approximately 18 months to complete. Security and Access Control



The existing fence around the perimeter of the UMK Mine and the designated access control and security office will be utilised during the construction phase. No additional fences will be erected.



4.3.2 Operation Phase

Operation Phase Activities UMK Mine currently consists of open-pit mining sections, crushing and screening operations, ROM, overburden, waste rock and product stockpile dumps, and associated support and administrative infrastructure. Future approved surface activities and infrastructure will include a dense medium separation (DMS) plant, a sinter plant and mine residue deposit (tailings) facilities. Surface infrastructure Operational phase surface infrastructure comprises of the following:

• Open-pit mining sections;

• Plant area consisting of Primary and Secondary crushing and screening areas;

• Mobile and semi-mobile crushing and screening areas;

• J-Block extended crushing area;

• Plant conveyors;

• Topsoil stockpiles and berms;

• Waste rock dumps and berms;

• ROM stockpiles

• Product stockpiles, - 6 mm product stockpile, kidney product stockpile, mobile crusher stockpiles, and final product stockpiles;

• Storm water management facilities: drains, berms, recycled water ponds and pollution control dams;

• Water holding facilities: dirty water dams and ponds, potable water storage tanks and reservoirs, service and dust suppression water storage tanks;

• Potable water, service water and sewage effluent pipelines;

• Eskom substation and internal power line;

• Road truck parking area (hard park);

• Possible D3340 emergency access point and escape route.

• Internal haul roads;

• Weighbridge;

• Possible future sinter plant siding;

• Administrative offices, stores, contractors yard, including water and diesel storage facilities, change house and clinic.



• Fuel farm and storage tanks;

• Laboratory and preparatory laboratory;

• Core yard;

• Workshop and wash bays (temporary and permanent);

• Salvage yard and temporary waste storage area including waste tyres (waste yard);

• Bioremediation facility. Mining Operations The open pit has a north-south orientation and is divided into a northern section on the farms Smartt and Botha and a southern section on the farms Smartt and Rissik. Expansion of the open pits will continue using conventional open cast strip mining methods. It is anticipated that approximately 2 to 3,8 million tons of ore will be mined per year. Table 4-1 summarises the associated open cast activities and Table 4-2 the crushing and screening facilities required.

Table 4-1

Summary of Open Cast Activities

Activity Description

Topsoil stripping Topsoil will be stripped and stockpiled separately in accordance with soil conservation management procedures.

Drilling and blasting Once the topsoil and waste rock material have been removed, the hard overburden rock will be drilled as per a predetermined design. Charges for blasting will be designed to prevent excessive ground vibration, fly rock and air blast.

Waste rock removal The removal of waste rock above the ore body will be done by means of dozing, loading and hauling with large equipment, and stockpiled on waste rock dumps. Some waste rock will be placed into previously mined out areas, thus ensuring that the rehabilitation is done concurrently with mining, while others will be sloped, shaped and made safe.

Removal of ore The ROM ore will be transported via dump trucks to designated ROM stockpiles prior to being fed into the processing plant.

Rehabilitation and partial backfilling of pits

Rehabilitation will be concurrent with mining. Some waste rock will be used to partially backfill open pits. Topsoil will be replaced on the waste rock to enable vegetation to be re-establish. Excess topsoil will be stored in berms and designated stockpile areas in accordance with conservation management procedures immediately adjacent to areas where the topsoil will be used for rehabilitation at the end of the life of mine.



Table 4-2

Summary of Crushing and Screening Activities

Activity Description

Semi-mobile and mobile crushing and screening

Ore from the ROM stockpile will be transported via front-end loaders, articulated trucks and conveyors to the primary crushing area (consisting of a primary feed bin, vibrating grizzly, jaw crusher and stockpile area) to reduce ROM material to a size required by the downstream processes. Crushed material from the primary crusher will be transported via conveyor to a surge bin supplying a triple deck screen to screen out product to the required specifications. Oversize material from the screening process will be fed by conveyor to the secondary crusher area consisting of a cone crusher to further reduce any oversize material to the required specifications. The re-crushed material will be recirculated back to the screening plant. Correctly sized material will be fed to the final product stockpiles.

Mobile crushing and screening

Other than crushing and screening equipment being track mounted for quick and easy relocation, material processing is similar to the semi mobile crushing and screening.

J-Block extended crusher

ROM ore from the J-Block extended open-pit will be transported to the crusher. Crushed material will be conveyed to the permanent processing plant.

Product stockpiling The correctly sized product from the screening plant will be fed onto three elevated product stockpile conveyors to three separate final product stockpiles e.g. lumpy, chips and fines. Due to limited stockpile space under the elevated stockpile conveyors, the saleable product is moved to the mobile stockpile areas by front-end loader and articulated dump trucks.

Product transportation Saleable product will be moved by front-end loaders, articulated trucks and conveyor to the load-out station for removal off-site via road and rail for sale to third parties.

Dust suppression Dust suppression will be utilised at all material handling transfer points.



Transport System Roads Access to the mine is via an existing tarred road from the R380 provincial road. In the case of emergencies, alternative access will be provided via the existing D3340 private gravel road that links to the R380. A network of internal gravel haul roads is used for the internal transportation of workers and machinery. Within the site boundary additional haulage capacity will be established. This will consist of a combination of widening and lengthening of existing gravel haul roads as well as the establishment of new gravel haul roads. Additional transport related systems at the mine include weighbridges, a taxi and bus bay, parking areas and a delivery truck manganese road hauler waiting area. Additional project traffic will be generated (increase of ~ 20 %) during the operational phase for the removal of operational waste from and transport of employees to and from site. The project’s trip generation and traffic loads will be provided in the EIA and EMP report. Conveyors Additional conveyors will be established within the existing plant area to allow for the movement of ore between primary and secondary crushing and screening stations and product stockpiles. Pipelines The project will require expansion of existing and/or the establishment of a series of pipelines for the transportation of potable water, process water and sewage effluent. Water Supply and Management Potable and process water Potable and service water is required by the mine and is stored in potable and process water storage tanks. A number of storage tanks exist on site for potable, service, fire and dust suppression water. Additional storage capacity is needed. The storage requirements of the mine will be detailed in the EIA and EMP report. Potable water will continue to be made available from the Vaal Gamagara water pipeline operated by Sedibeng Water, while service water will be made available from the Vaal Gamagara pipeline and/or water from pit dewatering. Water requirements for the expanded operations will be detailed in the EIA and EMP report. Storm Water Management The existing water management facilities for the control of storm water and prevention of pollution will be reviewed and where necessary, revised to meet the requirements of Regulation 704 (1999) of the NWA for water management on mines. The two principle sections of Regulation 704 (4 June 1999) applicable to the storm water management of the project include: • Regulation 6 which describes the capacity requirements of clean and dirty water

systems. Clean and dirty water systems must be kept separate and must be designed, constructed, maintained and operated such that these systems do not spill more than once in 50 years.



• Regulation 7 which requires that measures which must be taken to protect water resources from all dirty water or substances which cause or are likely to cause pollution of a water resource either through natural flow or by seepage. Clean water will be diverted away from infrastructure areas by means of earth berms, and discharged back into the natural environment. Dirty water on-site will be contained in a dirty water management system comprising channels, drains, berms and dams. An updated storm water management plan for the mine will be included in the EIA and EMP report.

Power Supply and Use Power will continue to be sourced from Eskom by means of an existing substation/transformer connection of 10 MVA at 132/11 kV, upgradable to 15 MVA for the sinter plant once commissioned. The external power line size is 132 kV, with internal reticulation of power from the substation/transformer by means of 11 kV power lines. Additional internal power distribution will be established at the mine. Mineralised Waste Management Waste rock associated with the project will be stored on waste rock dumps. Design features and characteristics will be in line with Section 4 of NEM:WA Regulations (GNR. 632 of 2015) and Section 73 of the MPRDA Regulations (GNR 527 of 2004). Waste rock will be used to partially backfill some of the open pits. The remaining waste rock will be stored on surface. Storage requirements for the mine will be detailed in the EIA and EMP report. Non-mineralised Waste Management Domestic and industrial waste Facilities for the temporary storage of non-mineralised waste already exist on site. The types of waste generated by the mine include: hazardous industrial waste (such as packaging for hazardous materials, used oil, lubricants, tyres), general industrial waste (such as scrap metal and building rubble), medical waste (such as swabs and bandages) and domestic waste (such as packaging, canteen waste and office waste). Wastes are temporarily handled and stored on site within the mine’s existing waste management system before being removed for recycling by suppliers and approved waste handling companies, re-use by scrap dealers or final disposal at permitted waste disposal facilities in the area. Sewage Ablution facilities and a sewage treatment plant are located on site. Sewage waste water is pumped from the ablution facilities via a series of pipelines to the sewage treatment plant where treatment is by means of an activated sludge system. The sewage sludge is removed off-site by a reputable waste contractor for disposal at a licensed waste facility. Additional Support Services and Facilities In addition to the abovementioned core infrastructure and activities, support services and facilities include the following:

• Workshops and wash bays (temporary and permanent) – used for servicing equipment and general maintenance.

• Fuel farm and stores, tanks and handling area at the workshops for storage of diesel with an increased capacity of 42 000 litres. The storage method of this substance is to contain them in sealed containers within impermeable, bunded areas with 125 % capacity of the



stored materials. Sumps, traps and pumps will also be provided to collect and remove spilled substances.

• Laboratory and preparatory laboratory – used for sample preparation and analysis.

• Administrative offices, stores, contractors yard (including water and diesel storage facilities), change house and clinic – used by employees and contractors.

• Salvage yard and temporary waste storage area – used for the temporary storage of waste (including waste tyres) before collection and removal.

• Road truck parking area (hard park) as an administration office and waiting area for delivery trucks or manganese road haulers.

• Weighbridge – used to weigh entire rail and road vehicles and their contents.

• Core yard – used for the storage of mineral drill core samples.

• Bioremediation facility – used for the treatment of soil through hydrocarbon contamination. Employment and Housing Currently ~ 830 people are employed by the UMK Mine during steady state production, including contractors. Expansion of mining operations will allow for the creation of an additional 120 employment opportunities. No housing is provided on-site. Operational workers will be accommodated in nearby towns. Operating Hours The mine operates 24 hours a day for seven days a week. This will continue. Life of Mine The expansion of mining operations will sustain the life of mine of approximately 20 years.

4.3.3 Decommissioning and Closure

The conceptual closure plan objectives and principles include the following:

• Environmental damage is minimised to the extent that they are acceptable to all parties involved.

• The land is rehabilitated to achieve a condition approximating its natural state, or so that the envisaged end use of cultivated land is achieved.

• All surface infrastructure, excluding the tailings storage facility and some of the waste rock dumps will be removed from site after rehabilitation. Some of the open pits will be partially backfilled while the high walls of all open pits and waste rock dumps will be sloped/shaped and made safe.

• Mine closure is achieved efficiently, cost effectively and in compliance with the law.

• The social and economic impacts resulting from mine closure are managed in such a way that negative socio-economic impacts are minimised.



5 Sources of Noise 5.1 Sources of Noise in the Construction Phase

Activities in the construction phase are expected to produce noise of relatively low levels and of an intermittent nature, not quantifiable in the same way as high levels of continuous noise produced in the operation phase. Hence, the assessment of construction noise is based on qualitative considerations. Activities and equipment expected to contribute to construction noise are summarised in Table 5-1. This will involve pre-stripping, infrastructure setup and construction of haul roads linking pits to dumps and to the main operations area at the UMK Mine.

Table 5-1

Sources of Noise in the Construction Phase

Construction Activity Sources of Noise

Vegetation clearing, soil stripping & stockpiling Bulldozers, trucks

Haul road construction Bulldozers, loaders, trucks, compactors

5.2 Sources of Noise in the Operation Phase

5.2.1 Sources of Noise – Pit Operations Assumptions Assumptions made in this study for purposes of pit noise simulation are based on typical open-cast configuration and operation parameters, using equipment specifications and quantities provided by UMK mine and noise emission data obtained from measurements previously conducted by Acusolv at various open-cast operations of similar configuration. Pit Noise Generating Activities and Equipment Opencast operations at the UMK pits will involve conventional surface mining which includes drilling of waste and ore, blasting and loading onto trucks using conventional equipment such as front-end loaders and back-actors. Waste will be hauled and dumped on waste dumps adjacent to the pits as shown in Figure 4-1. ROM ore will be hauled directly to the UMK plant area, or it may first be dumped on ROM stockpiles before loading and hauling to the main operations. Table 5-2 summarises assumptions (based on equipment information provided by UMK Mine) made in noise modelling in respect of quantities and capacities of equipment and activities which will constitute sources of noise.



Table 5-2

Sources of Noise arising from Pit Operations All sources operating 24 hours/day; 7 days/week

Based on information supplied by UMK Mine

Operation Noise source Quantity Type/Rating

Drilling Pneumatic Drilling

1 T450 Schramm

1 CAT Pecer

6 D65

Excavation Excavation 3 Cat 374D Excavator 74 ton

1 Cat 345D Excavator 45 ton

1 Cat 6030 Face Shovel 294 ton

Loading 6 Cat 966 Front End Loaders 24 ton

1 Cat 980 Front End Loader 31 ton

1 Cat 986 Front End Loader 44 ton

Hauling Trucks 30 – 50/h

Approximately 30 to 50 Loads per hour

18 Cat 740B 40 ton

5 Cat 745C 45 ton

4 Bell B45D 45 ton

5 Bell B50D 50 ton

9 Cat 777D 90 ton

Dozing 1 Cat D10T Tracked Dozer 70 ton

2 Cat D9R Tracked Dozer 49 ton

Pit services Browsers 1 Cat 730 Water Bowser 51 ton laden

1 Bell 18 Water Bowser 33 ton laden

1 Cat 730B Diesel Bowser 51 ton laden

Blasting Blasting 1 Once a day, weekdays only

Stockpiling Stockpiling - ROM stockpiling

Discard Discard dump - Discard transport and dumping



5.2.2 Sources of Noise – Dump Operations

Assumptions Assumptions made for purposes of dump and haul road noise simulation are based on equipment specifications and quantities provided by UMK and noise emission data obtained from measurements previously conducted by Acusolv at various dump operations of similar configuration. Dump Noise-generating Activities and Equipment The primary sources of noise emerging from dump operations will be the following:

• Dump trucks moving on haul roads

• Dump trucks ascending, descending and traversing on dumps

• Dump trucks tipping

• Bulldozers and front-end loaders operating on dumps

• Reverse alarms activated on trucks and earth-moving equipment operating on dumps

Haul and Dump Truck Movements It is estimated that an average of 20 to 40 trucks per hour will travel to each dump, peaking at 30 trucks per hour at times. Haul road traffic is estimated at approximately 15 to 20 trucks per hour.

5.2.3 Sources of Noise – Processing Plant Assumptions Assumptions made in this study for purposes of plant noise simulation are based on the listing of plant components in the Project Scoping Report and on noise emission data obtained from measurements previously conducted at plants and processing operations of similar nature. Plant Noise-generating Processes and Equipment The primary sources of noise emerging from plant operation will be the following:

• Primary Crusher: Conveyors depositing and trucks dumping into crusher receiver bins; material transport via chutes, crushing and screening.

• Secondary Crusher: Conveyor transport from Primary Crusher and deposit into Secondary Crusher receiver bin, crushing and screening.

• Screening Plant: material deposit onto screen beds, screen vibration, material deposit into under-pans.

• DMS Plant operation: material impact against steel surfaces, operation of vibrating screens

• Mobile and semi-mobile crushing.



• Operations at J-Block extended crushing area;

Stockpiling Operations

• Processed product deposit onto stockpiles

• Stockpile maintenance by front-end loaders

5.2.4 The Net Character of Overall Noise The character and net impression of audible noise emanating from Project operations, i.e. the combined noise heard at distant locations still within audible reach of the pits, the dumps, haul roads and the processing plant, will be a variable blend of the following: (a) Diesel engine noise, which over distance, turns into a characteristic low frequency droning

sound. It will be the most prominent and incessant source of audible noise.

(b) Intermittent sequences of impact noise produced by pneumatic drilling.

(c) Harsh rumbling, thumping, grating and clutter noises produced by excavation, truck loading, bulldozing and track clutter.

(d) Truck movements over rough terrain and tipping noise.

(e) The beeping sounds of reverse alarms.

(f) Crushing and screening noises.



6 Legal Framework 6.1 South African Noise Regulations 6.1.1 Background

In 1994, with the devolution of regulatory power from governmental to provincial level, the authority to promulgate noise regulations was ceded to provinces. Each province could henceforth decide whether to develop their own regulations, or to adopt and adapt existing regulations. Some provinces (e.g. Gauteng, Free State and Western Cape) have promulgated such regulations. Elsewhere, including Northern Cape Province, no provincial noise regulations have been put in place. Consequently, in noise studies undertaken in provinces lacking official noise regulations, national noise regulations [7] are assumed to apply by default. For further guidance, it is noted that noise criteria in all previous national and current provincial regulations, as well as current metropolitan noise policies, are derived from SANS 10103 [2]. SANS 10103 defines the relevant acoustic parameters that should be measured, gives guidelines with respect to acceptable levels and assessment criteria and specifies test methods and equipment requirements. In the UMK Project noise assessment, the provisions of the noise regulations are followed, but the assessment is refined by application of the principles, guidelines and criteria of SANS 10103.

6.1.2 Prohibitions Prohibition of Disturbing Noise

In accordance with international and South African standard practice, noise impact assessments are made with respect to outdoor noise levels. Noise regulations prohibit any changes to existing facilities, or uses of land, or buildings or the erection of new buildings, if it will house activities that will cause a disturbing noise, unless precautionary measures to prevent disturbing noises have been taken to the satisfaction of the local authority. Noise is deemed to be disturbing, if it exceeds certain limits. Depending on what data is available, SANS 10103 allows for different formulations of the excess.

• If the actual residual ambient level is known: The excess is taken to be the difference between the noise under investigation and the residual noise measured in the absence of the specific noise under investigation. This definition, based on the noise emergence criterion, finds application in both predictive and noise monitoring assessments, if baseline noise levels can be determined by measurement.

• If the actual residual ambient level is unknown: Alternatively, the excess may also be defined as the difference between the ambient noise under investigation and the acceptable ambient rating for the district class under consideration in accordance with SANS 10103. This definition, based on the acceptable level criterion, is employed in predictive noise studies and in noise monitoring assessments, if for practical reasons, the actual residual (baseline) levels cannot be determined by measurement.

In terms of the national noise regulations, a disturbing noise means a noise that causes the ambient sound level to increase by 7 dB or more above the designated zone level, or if no zone level has been designated, the ambient sound level measured at the same point. Noise regulations also require that the measurement and assessment of ambient noise comply with the guidelines of SANS 10103.



It should be cautioned, however, that the regulatory limit of 7 dB should not be construed as the upper limit of acceptability. SANS 10103 (See Table 6-2 in this report) warns that an increase of 5 dB is already significant and that an increase of 7 dB can be expected to evoke widespread complaints from the community. Hence, although the applicant would be legally compliant if the noise impact is prevented from exceeding 7 dB, that would not prevent noise disturbance and noise complaints. In the EIA phase, i.e. in the design and planning stage of a new development, it is advised the design target be set at 3 dB, while 5 dB is considered to be a significant impact. The margin so provided is required as a matter of good planning and to maintain good relations with neighbors. It also brings the assessment in line with World Bank guidelines. Prohibition of a Noise Nuisance Noise regulations also prohibit the creation of a noise nuisance, defined as any sound which disturbs, or impairs the convenience or peace of any person. The intent of this clause is to make provision for the control of types of noise not satisfactorily covered by measurement and assessment criteria applicable to disturbing noises. These are noises which are either difficult to capture3, or noises for which the readings registered on a sound level meter and assessed against standard criteria, do not correlate satisfactorily with the annoyance caused. Noise regulations list specific activities which are prohibited if exercised in a manner to cause a noise nuisance, such as4:

• The playing of musical instruments and amplified music;

• Allowing an animal to cause a noise nuisance.

• Discharging fireworks;

• Discharge of explosive devices, firearms or similar devices which emit impulsive sound, except with the prior consent in writing of the local authority concerned and subject to conditions as the local authority may deem necessary;

• Load, unload, open, shut or in any other way handle a crate, box, container, building material, rubbish container or any other article, or allow it to be loaded, unloaded, opened, shut or handled, (if this may cause a noise nuisance).

• Drive a vehicle on a public road in such a manner that it may cause a noise nuisance.

• Use any power tool or power equipment used for construction work, drilling or demolition work in or near a residential area, (if this may cause a noise nuisance).

And:

• Except in an emergency, emit a sound, or allow a sound to be emitted, by means of a bell, carillon, siren, hooter, static alarm, whistle, loudspeaker or similar device (if it may cause a noise nuisance).

One or more of these activities may occur on industrial sites and in project activities. A common cause of noise nuisance are hooters and reverse alarms, the last item listed above.

3 For example, barking dogs. Not only is the occurrence of the noise unpredictable and erratic, but the presence of a

person investigating the problem with a noise meter is likely to attract attention and trigger incessant barking. 4 See Noise Regulations for the full list of prohibited activities.



The essential difference between a disturbing noise and a noise nuisance is as follows: Noise Disturbance – Is quantifiable and its assessment is based on estimated or measured sound levels, expressed in decibel (dBA). Investigation and assessment of existing noise disturbance problems involve the measurement of ambient levels in the presence of a specific source under investigation and comparison of this level with either the level measured in the absence of the source, or a table value deemed to be an acceptable level for the district class under consideration. Noise Nuisance – Is difficult to quantify and is not confirmed or assessed by measurement. Judging whether a noise qualifies as a nuisance is based purely on its character and audibility, in conjunction with subjective considerations such as the perceived intent of the noise maker and connotations attributable to the source of noise. Where measurement is possible, measured data may serve as supplementary information. SANS 10103 As mentioned before, noise regulations require that the measurement and assessment of noise comply with the guidelines of SANS 10103. The concept of noise nuisance, however, only features in the regulations. SANS 10103 only deals with quantifiable noise (noise disturbance), without any guidelines for, or reference to noise nuisance. The concept of noise nuisance does not appear in World Bank criteria either. It is normally expected of an EIA noise study to make findings based on noise modelling and quantitative assessment of predicted noise levels, i.e. based on noise disturbance considerations. The same applies to noise monitoring conducted in terms of an EMP, where the assessment is expected to make findings based on measured data, assessed in terms of noise disturbance criteria as well. But once an industrial site or mine starts operating, predictable as well as unexpected sources of noise nuisance may emerge. If present, they often constitute a major cause of complaints. It is therefore imperative that, in addition to quantitative predictions and measurements, noise studies as well as monitoring surveys also identify potential and confirmed sources of noise nuisance.

6.2 SANS 10103 - Acceptable Ambient Levels Noise regulations require that the rating level of the ambient noise be compared with the

rating level of the residual noise (where this can be measured), or alternatively (where the noise source cannot be switched off or interrupted), with the appropriate rating level given in SANS 10103 Table 2. Neither the noise regulations, nor SANS 10103 define or refer to the term noise impact. It is however generally understood and defined for purposes of noise studies, as the amount in dB by which the total noise level exceeds a nominal or measured reference ambient level rating, whichever is applicable, for the area under consideration.

Table 6-1 in this report summarises SANS 10103 criteria for acceptable ambient levels in

various districts. Note that ratings increase in steps of 5 dB from one to the next higher category and that, in general, regardless of the type of district, ambient noise levels tend to decline by typically 10 dB from daytime to night-time. It follows that, for the same level of intrusive noise, the noise impact would typically increase by 10 dB from daytime to night-time.



Table 6-1

Typical outdoor ambient noise levels in various districts (SANS 10103)

Type of district

Noise level

Equivalent continuous level LAeq (dBA)

Day-Night Day-time Night-time

Ldn Ld Ln

(a) Rural 45 45 35

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

(c) Urban 55 55 45

(d)

Urban - With some workshops, business premises & main roads

60 60 50

(e) Central business districts 65 65 55

(f) Industrial districts 70 70 60

The periods in Table 6-1 into which a 24 hour cycle is divided, are defined as follows: Day-time (06:00 – 22:00) Night-time (22:00 – 06:00) Day-Night (24-hour day-night period) The day-night level Ldn represents a 24-hour average of the ambient noise level, with a weighting of +10 dB applied to night-time levels, yielding numerically equal values for daytime and day-night levels. SANS 10103 also gives guidelines in relation to expected community response to different levels of noise impact (increase in noise level), as summarized in Table 6-2.

Table 6-2

Expected community response to an increase in ambient noise level (SANS 10103)

Increase in ambient level Expected community reaction

[dB]

0 – 10 Sporadic complaints

5 – 15 Widespread complaints

10 – 20 Threats of community action

More than 15 Vigorous community action



7 Results and Findings – Existing Ambient Levels 7.1 Existing State of the Environment

Results of the 2017 baseline update survey are summarised on the map in Figure 7-1. Charts of ambient levels averaged in sequences of 10 minute intervals over 24 hour periods, are presented in Appendix A. Ambient Levels at M1 (Residence Farm Perth) Average ambient levels recorded at this location were 53 dBA (daytime) and 48 dBA (night-time), respectively. These levels are well above typical Rural District levels of 45 dBA (daytime) and 35 dBA (night-time), (see Table 6-1). The dominant source of noise causing the elevation in ambient level, was the movement of trucks on the section of the D3340 private road connecting the R380 provincial road with Sebilo Mine. This road passes at a distance of merely 50 m from the Perth residence. Other smaller but significant sources of noise were mining and plant operations at Sebilo Mine located ~ 1 km from the Perth residence, traffic noise from the R380 provincial road ~ 450 m away and noise from railway traffic on the Sishen-Hotazel ore line running in close proximity of and parallel with the R380. At this stage, noise from the nearest UMK mining operations some 1,5 km away could not be audibly distinguished or measured above aforementioned sources of noise. Ambient Levels at M2 (UMK Security Gate) The purpose of monitoring at M2 was to verify continued UMK mining operations during the course of the ambient noise survey. In addition, it also provides an additional data reference point used in the calibration and verification of the noise simulation model. The levels measured at M2 are not intended to serve as an indication of and are not representative of conditions at receptors in the external surroundings. Ambient Levels in other Areas Figure 7-1 also shows the results of shorter duration samples taken in the larger area. The results of the 24-hour and short duration surveys were used in conjunction with noise modelling to create a global map of the ambient noise profile of the area shown in Figure 7-2. The map shows contours of existing night-time ambient noise levels. The model accounts for the primary sources of existing noise, including UMK mining activities, high level estimates of noise from other mining activities in the district, as well as road and rail traffic noise. Daytime and night-time periods are as defined in SANS 10103 (See Section 6.2).



Figure 7-1

Existing Ambient Noise Levels Measured in Surveys

Paired values LDay / LNight dBA are day and night average levels measured in 24 hour surveys

Single values are short duration samples of daytime levels



Figure 7-2

Existing ambient noise levels in the area surrounding UMK Mine

Day and Night levels at M1 and M2 from surveys conducted over 24-hour periods

Noise contours show typical night-time levels determined from surveys and by modelling



7.2 Reference Ambient Levels Noise impact is defined as a change in ambient noise level relative to a predefined reference or baseline level. The reference level in any noise impact assessment is the ambient level which prevailed immediately prior to commencement of the project under assessment. In a homogeneous environment, such as a relatively undisturbed Rural District, measured or nominal single-number ratings of average daytime and night-time ambient levels could suffice and are commonly used as blanket baseline references for an entire study area. In cases such as applicable in the UMK assessment, a district interspersed with mining and/or industrial developments; intersected by main roads and railway lines, the actual ambient level is all but constant. As far as it can be established and quantified, the actual ambient level profile in such a scenario should be used as reference in the computation of noise impacts. The use of blanket single-number day and night ratings as reference would amount to crude approximations. In addition to the above, it is evident that incremental and accumulative impacts generally have different time and baseline references. Deciding what should be included in the baseline basket of a particular cumulative assessment can be complicated by the sequence in which individual mines, other industries, road and rail infrastructure have been established in the study area. In any event, the assumptions made in this regard should be clearly stated. Noise impacts considered in this noise study and the relevant baseline references are defined in Section 8.2.

7.3 Recommended limits 24-hour Operation Noise - Maximum impact occurs at night Daytime intrusive noise levels created by distant industrial noise sources, such the proposed UMK Project, are as a general rule substantially lower than the levels created by the same sources at night. The reason is that typical daytime meteorological conditions result in skyward refraction of sound propagation, in contrast with downward diffraction caused by typical night-time temperature profiles (vertical gradients). During the day, most of the noise emitted by a large source does not reach the ground, while at night, both direct sound and a portion of the energy radiated skywards are diffracted and focussed downwards to earth. This contrast between day and night levels is further accentuated by a considerable drop at night in the residual ambient level due to a general decline in road traffic and human activity noise. As a consequence, not only are the levels of intrusive noise from distance sources much higher at night, but the sensitivity of the environment increases sharply, as well. It follows that for continuous noise generated in a 24-hour operation, such as the UMK Project, maximum impact will occur at night and that for all practical purposes, provided the night-time impact is limited to acceptable levels, the daytime impact would also be contained. Significant Impact Criterion The noise impact of the proposed UMK Project at any location is defined as the elevation in the outdoor ambient level caused by Project generated noise. It follows from decibel arithmetic that if intrusive noise on its own equals the background ambient level, the total ambient level will rise by 3 dB. In line with SANS 10103 as well as international (e.g. World Bank) guidelines, an impact of 3 dB or less is insignificant. It becomes significant if intrusive noise elevates the ambient level by 5 dB or more.



8 Results and Findings – Predictive Impact Assessment 8.1 Construction Phase Noise Impact

Potential noise-generating activities during the UMK construction phase (see Section 5.1) are:

• Diesel engine noise of earthmoving equipment and trucks

• Pit construction: clearing of vegetation and removal of overburden

• Haul road construction: clearing of vegetation, bulldozing, loading and truck movements.

The dominant and for all practical purposes the only audible source of noise in the above-mentioned activities will be the diesel engines of trucks, dozers, loaders and other earth-moving equipment. Compared to operation noise, general construction noise will be of similar character but of a lower intensity. It will have a smaller footprint and considering that most construction activities will occur during daytime, it is not expected to have a discernible impact on the nearest noise receptors.

8.2 Operation Phase Noise Impact 8.2.1 Definitions Assumptions and Uncertainties

Significant Impact Criterion In line with SANS 10103 as well as international (e.g. World Bank) guidelines, an impact of 3 dB or less is deemed insignificant. It becomes significant if intrusive noise elevates the ambient level by 5 dB or more. By its statistical nature, noise assessment significance criteria cannot be defined in discrete steps with sharp limits between zones. This is why SANS 10103 noise assessment criteria are defined with overlapping ranges of significance. Against this background, noise impact assessment criteria applied in this noise study are as follows:

• Below and up to 3 dB an impact is rated as insignificant and negligible. The magnitude (severity) is rated from Zero to Low.

• Above 3 dB the impact becomes notable. Between 3 dB and 5 dB the magnitude is rated between Low to Moderate.

• At and above 5 dB the impact becomes significant. Between 5 dB and 10 dB the magnitude of impact is rated between Moderate and High.

• At or above 10 dB the magnitude of impact is rated as Very High; likely to invoke vigorous community action (See Table 6-2).

Definition of Impacts and Baseline References Noise impact refers to a change in ambient level as a result of intrusive noise. Quantitatively, it is defined as the increase in ambient level from a predefined reference or baseline level. As explained in Section 7.2, the reference level will vary, depending on the progressive rank (order) of impact (incremental or cumulative) under consideration. This noise study considers the incremental impact of the proposed UMK Project as well as two cumulative impacts:



firstly, the cumulative impact of UMK Mine on its own; secondly, the cumulative impact of all mining developments in the area, including UMK. The impacts and associated reference conditions for the various cases are defined as follows: UMK Project Incremental Noise Impact The incremental impact of the UMK Project is defined as the change in the overall ambient noise as a result of the proposed changes and expansions; i.e. the difference in the ambient level before and after commissioning of the Project. The reference or baseline in this case is the existing ambient noise profile immediately prior to introduction of the proposed UMK Project. This is the profile depicted on the noise map in Figure 7-2, which was derived from the 2017 baseline update survey, supplemented by noise modelling. The baseline is produced by all existing sources of noise, including all existing UMK mining operations, noise from all other existing mining operations in the area, noise from traffic on public roads and railway lines, as well as residual typical Rural District background noises. Cumulative Impact attributable to UMK Mine The cumulative impact attributable to UMK Mine as a whole, after introduction of the proposed changes and expansions, will be the change in ambient noise level as a result of all existing UMK operations, plus the proposed future UMK changes and expansions, relative to the estimated background ambient level, excluding any contribution of UMK mining activities. The baseline reference is the original state of the environment which prevailed prior to commencement of mining activities in the district. It is the ambient level in the presumed absence of any mining activities and in the absence of mining-generated road and rail traffic. It comprises of the typical Rural District background ambient noise, plus the noise of general traffic (excluding mining-related traffic) on public roads. Cumulative Impact of Mining in the Area The cumulative impact attributable to all mining activities in the area, is defined as the change in ambient level as a result of the introduction of mining development and associated infrastructure in the district. The baseline reference is the same as the reference used in the computation of UMK Mine’s cumulative impact. Tables 8-1-1 to 8-1-3 summarise the sources of noise used in the definition of intrusive and baseline parameters used in the computation of incremental UMK Project noise impacts and in the computation of cumulative impacts.



Table 8-1

Incremental and Cumulative Noise Impacts

Definition of Impact and Baseline Parameters

Table 8-1-1 UMK Project Incremental Noise Impact

UMK Project Sources of Noise Baseline Basket

1 UMK Project • Pit expansion (a) UMK Existing • Existing pits

• Dump expansion • Existing dumps

• Stockpile expansion • Existing haul roads

• Crusher changes/new • Existing Plant

• Haul roads new (b) Mines Other • Mamatwan Mine

• Conveyors new • Sebilo Mine

(c) Railway Traffic • Hotazel ore line

(d) Road Traffic • R380 road traffic

• D3340 road traffic

(e) Residual • Domestic Activity

• Birds, insects, wind

Table 8-1-2 UMK Mine Cumulative Noise Impact

UMK Mine Sources of Noise Baseline Basket

1 UMK Existing • Opencast Pit operations (a) Road Traffic • R380 Public traffic

• Waste Dump operations • D3340 Private use

• Haul Roads (b) Residual • Domestic activity

• Processing Plant • Farming activity

• UMK road transport • Birds, insects, wind

• UMK contribution: rail

2 UMK Expansion • Pit expansion

• Dump expansion

• Stockpile expansion

• Crusher changes/new

• Haul roads new

• Conveyors new



Table 8-1-3 Mining Industry Cumulative Noise Impact

Mining Industry Sources of Noise Baseline Basket

1 UMK Mine • UMK existing operations (a) Road Traffic • R380 Public traffic

• UMK Project expansion • D3340 Private use

2 Other Mines • Mamatwan operations (b) Residual • Domestic activity

• Sebilo operations • Farming activity

3 Railway Traffic • Hotazel ore line • Birds, insects, wind

Trains hauling ore

4 Road Traffic • R380 Mine Transport

• D3340 Mine Transport

Probable Worst-case Conditions Noise impacts for the proposed UMK Project operations were investigated for probable worst-case meteorological and operating conditions as outlined in the following. On average, typical night-time noise levels produced by the Project are expected to be lower than the estimates derived for the above-mentioned conditions. “Probable worst-case” in the context of this study refers to levels that are higher than typical levels. Although less probable than typical levels, they will inevitably occur from time to time over the course of a year, sometimes possibly for several days on end. Occurrence of worst-case atmospheric propagation conditions is unpredictable; it is not simplistically related to weather conditions and not limited to any particular season of the year. In practice, it cannot be predicted when worst-case meteorological conditions will occur and for how long it will prevail, but it can be safely assumed that, occasionally, from time to time, it will occur. Time of Day

Noise levels were computed for night-time conditions when the levels of operation noise at large distances will be elevated by atmospheric conditions, when background ambient levels are low and when the environment is most sensitive to intrusive noise. Meteorological Conditions Depending on the time of day or night and on meteorological conditions in particular, noise levels produced by mining and industrial sources over long distances fluctuate by a considerable margin. Such changes in level are in response to variable atmospheric absorption (losses) and refraction (bending) caused by ever-changing wind and temperature gradients as a function of altitude. For purposes of acoustic modelling, meteorological conditions are divided into six categories, with Meteorological Category 1 resulting in the lowest noise levels (skyward refraction and maximum atmospheric losses) and Category 6 resulting in the highest noise levels (downward refraction and minimum atmospheric losses). Category 4 represents so-called “Neutral Conditions”.



The noise impact at any location depends on wind direction. Wind causes diffraction of sound waves in such a way that noise levels are reduced at locations upwind and intensified at locations downwind relative to the source of noise. For the noise receptors nearest to the UMK Mine, worst-case conditions would occur if the wind blows from a broadly south-west direction, i.e. with the wind vector lying in the south-to-west quadrant. The prevailing wind direction at the project site is in a north easterly direction with significant winds also blowing from the north and north-west. For the nearest receptors, the prevailing wind direction has a beneficial effect in that it reduces the levels of noise coming from UMK operations to the south. With worst-case conditions in mind, UMK Project noise impacts were computed for Meteorological Category 6 on a less common wind-still night. Operation Parameters

• Calculations assume that all operations in terms of the Project plan are running simultaneously and continuously throughout the night.

• Noise contours were calculated for a pit depth of 20 m, which affords a significant screening of noise generated by pit operations. This, of course, has no bearing on and no advantage in respect of noise generated in surface operations around the pit, including overburden stockpile and waste dump operations, or noise generated by trucks on haul roads.

Adherence to Good Practice Protocols Although no special design measures specifically aimed at noise reduction and control of the mine’s environmental impact are presumed, it is nevertheless assumed in the assessment of unmitigated noise impact that good practice protocols will as a minimum precaution be adhered to so as to prevent unnecessary generation or escalation of noise as follows:

• Vehicles and other equipment are fitted out as standard in accordance with OEM Manuals.

• Vehicles and earth-moving equipment are properly serviced and maintained as per manufacturer’s specifications and operated within design operating limits. For example: � Trucks and earthmoving equipment are serviced regularly with attention given to the

condition of noise controlling components such as exhaust silencers;

� Machine and vehicle noise hoods, screens and covers are replaced after routine service. Drivers of trucks are instructed to use hooters in a disciplined manner for purposes of safety only, not for casual signalling or any other purpose. The mine strictly enforces this rule and verifies compliance.

8.2.2 Presentation of Results The unmitigated noise footprint of the proposed UMK Project as well as cumulative impacts are presented with the aid of noise contour maps computed with the assumption that the mine is fully operational. Noise contours on the maps show 3 dB and 5 dB noise impact footprints, delineating the distances at which the Project, or the cumulative sources under consideration, elevate the ambient level by 3 dB (Low impact; recommended planning limit) and 5 dB (Moderate impact), respectively. If the specific level of intrusive noise at any location rises to the point where it equals the background level, the ambient level will rise by 3 dB above its initial level. This (See Section 7.3) represents a noise impact of 3 dB, which is still acceptable in terms of noise



regulations and SANS 10103 criteria. Inside the 3 dB footprint, moving towards the centre of noise generating activities, the impact gradually becomes more significant. The 5 dB contour delineates the extent of a Moderate impact.

8.2.3 Findings - UMK Operation Noise Impacts

UMK Project Incremental Noise Impact Noise Map 8-1 depicts the incremental noise impact of the UMK Project. As explained in Section 8.2.1, this is the increase in ambient noise level expected as a result of the proposed new Project operations only, relative to the existing ambient level determined in the 2017 baseline update and as mapped in Figure 7-2. The directional pattern of the noise footprint is determined by the radiation characteristics of the various Project components, in conjunction with the uneven reference background ambient noise profile in the area, as well as by the topography. The reference level is defined in Section 8.2.1 and Table 8-1-1. Restricted to the western side of the mine, the resulting 5 dB significant noise footprint extends to distances of up to 2 km in certain directions. All buildings that could be identified in scoping surveys and on the latest satellite maps are indicated as residences on the noise map. The incremental impact footprint falls entirely inside the UMK mining rights boundary. What Noise Map 8-1 confirms, is that no noise receptor in the external surroundings will note any change in the ambient noise due to the introduction of the proposed UMK Project changes and expansions. In summary, the study finds that UMK Project noise in the operation phase will not cause a discernible change in the existing ambient level outside the mining rights boundaries. It will not be audible above existing noise and will have a negligible (zero) impact on residents in the study area.

8.2.4 Findings - Cumulative Impacts Cumulative Noise Impact of UMK Mine Noise Map 8-2 shows the estimated cumulative noise impact attributable to all existing and proposed future operations of the UMK Mine. Apart from UMK mining activity noise, it also includes the contributions of UMK product transport to road and rail traffic noise to the south. It excludes mining, road and rail traffic noise produced by other mines in the area. The baseline reference (See Section 8.2.1 and Table 8-1-2) is the original baseline before commencement of mining in the district. It comprises of background ambient noise, plus noise produced by general traffic on public roads. Noise Map 8-2 shows that current and proposed future UMK mining activities are estimated to have a 5 dB cumulative noise impact footprint extending to distances of up to 3 km measured from the main (broadly north-south) axis of existing UMK operations. The noise lobe opposite the centre of UMK Mine extending across the R380 towards the east is produced primarily by UMK plant noise, not by UMK road or rail transport noise. No receptor in the external surroundings falls inside the 5 dB significant impact footprint, although the footprint approaches buildings on Perth farm. The latter falls within the 3 to 5 dB zone, where the impact is not yet significant but the magnitude rated as Moderate. Considered on its own, UMK Mine existing and proposed future operations are estimated to have an impact of Moderate intensity on the Perth farm residence.



Cumulative Noise Impact of all Mines in the Area Assessment of the cumulative impact of the entire mining industry in the district does not form part of the main subject of this noise study, but is presented as background information only to broaden the perspective of the UMK Project noise assessment. It is based on modelling using satellite images to determine the layouts and using high level computations to arrive at rough estimates of the noise emissions of other mines in the area. Noise Map 8-3 shows the estimated cumulative noise impact produced by all mines collectively (including UMK Mine). It includes the noise of all mining activities, as well as noise produced by road and rail product transport. The baseline reference (See Section 8.2.1 and Table 8-1-3) is the same as the reference used in the computation of the cumulative impact of UMK Mine on its own, i.e. the original baseline before commencement of mining in the district. Noise Map 8-3 shows that, collectively, noise produced by mines in the area have a significant (5 dB) cumulative noise impact footprint extending to distances of up to 5 km to the west and up to 3,5 km to the east of the R380 provincial road. Farm residence Perth falls inside the 5 dB zone. In assessing the implications of Noise Map 8-3, it should be noted that the extent of the cumulative noise footprint east of the R380 is not produced by mining activities per se. By far the largest contributor to audible noise and to the impact east of the road, is noise produced by road and rail traffic, dominated by trucks transporting mined products. The overall cumulative noise impact at Perth north of UMK Mine accrues primarily from mine transport traffic on the R380 provincial road, mine transport traffic on the private D3340 road and noise produced by Sebilo mining activities to the west. As is evident from inspection of Noise Map 8-2, UMK Mine does not currently contribute to road transport traffic noise generated on the section of the R380 north of the mine’s main access road, or to noise produced by traffic on the D3340 road, i.e. truck and transport noise impacting on Perth and other noise receptors to the north and north-east of the mine. The cumulative noise impact of all mining and mining-related activities in the area on the nearest residences to the north and north-east of UMK Mine is significant with a Moderate to High magnitude. The current contribution of UMK Mine to this cumulative impact is low.

8.3 Decommissioning Phase Impacts

Noise in the decommissioning phase will be of a similar nature, but of a lower intensity and of shorter duration than noise in the construction phase. Decommissioning noise will not be audible at the nearest receptors and the noise impact will be negligible.

8.4 Closure Phase Impacts

No residual noise impacts will remain after decommissioning of the mine.



Noise Maps

Unmitigated Project and Cumulative Noise Impacts



Noise Map 8-1

UMK Project Noise Incremental night-time impact of proposed UMK Mine changes and expansions

Unmitigated Baseline Reference as defined in Table 8-1-1

The 3 dB contour delineates a Low impact and the 5 dB contour a Moderate impact



Noise Map 8-2

UMK Mine Existing and Future Noise Cumulative night-time impact of existing and future UMK mining operations





Noise Map 8-3

Noise Produced by all Mines in the Area Cumulative night-time impact of noise produced by all mining activities in the area





9 Mitigation 9.1 Construction Noise

Since the intensity of general construction noise will be relatively low, construction is not

expected to have any noise implications in the external surroundings during day or night-time. No mitigation is required.

9.2 Operation noise UMK Project Noise Noise produced by the proposed UMK Project operations will have no discernible effect on

existing ambient noise levels at the nearest or any other the farm houses in the area. The incremental impact of the Project will be negligible. No mitigation of UMK Project noise is required.

UMK Cumulative Noise

UMK mining activities are estimated to have a 5 dB cumulative noise impact footprint extending to distances of up to 3 km measured from the main (broadly north-south) axis of existing UMK operations. The proposed changes and extensions in terms of the Project do not contribute measurably to this footprint. No receptor in the external surroundings falls inside the 5 dB significant impact footprint, but the residence on Perth farm falls within the 3 to 5 dB zone. Considered in isolation, noise produced by current UMK Mine operations has an impact of Moderate intensity on the Perth farm residence. Mitigation of the noise impact of existing UMK operations was presumably considered and addressed in the Mine’s original EIA noise study. At this stage, mitigation of the impact on Perth would require restriction of operations on the northern waste dump to daytime hours, i.e. from 06h00 in the morning until 22h00 at night.

9.3 Decommissioning phase

No mitigation will be required during decommissioning.

9.4 Closure phase No mitigation will be required after decommissioning.



10 Summary and Rating of Noise Impacts 10.1 Intensity and Spatial Extent of Impact

10.1.1 UMK Project Noise

The spatial extent of the UMK Project’s incremental noise impact is localised, confined to within the mining rights boundary. It will not affect the existing ambient level outside the mining rights boundaries. The change caused by the proposed changes and expansions will not be audible above existing noise and will have a negligible (zero) impact on residents in the study area.

10.1.2 UMK Mine Cumulative Noise Current UMK mining activities are estimated to have a 5 dB cumulative noise impact footprint extending to distances of up to 3 km measured from the main (broadly north-south) axis of existing UMK operations. Changes and extensions proposed in terms of the Project under assessment will have no discernible effect on the current footprint. Perth farm residences north of the Mine falls within the 3 to 5 dB zone, where the impact is rated as Moderate. Considered on its own, noise produced by current UMK mining operations is estimated to have an impact of Moderate intensity on the Perth farm residence.

10.2 Noise Issues raised by IAP’s Issues and Responses in Scoping Report Issues relating to air-borne noise raised by IAP’s is summarised in the extract below taken

from the Project Scoping Report.

IAP Details Date Issue Raised Response in Scoping Report

Eben Anthonïscen

30-Jan-2017, Public scoping meeting at Hotazel Recreational Club

Noise: through usage of the D3340 road by UMK mining contractors during the day and at night. The UMK mining contractors have to stop using the D3340 as this is a private road since no one wants to take responsibility.

The D3340 emergency access point/route is one of the listed activities applied for by UMK for use in emergency situations. This will be discussed with UMK and you will receive separate feedback regarding this issue. Unfortunately, we cannot act on behalf of the third parties (UMK).

Response by Noise Specialist

Assessment in this noise study of the cumulative impact of mining in the area confirms that trucks using the R3340 are currently causing a significant noise impact on the Perth farm residence. Since Road D3340 is not currently used by UMK and only considered to be used as an emergency route in terms of the proposed UMK Project under assessment, noise modelling and assessment in this noise study consider regular mine transport traffic on this road as an external noise source produced by third parties.



10.3 Noise Impact Ratings

The noise impacts of the proposed UMK Project for the various life cycle phases are rated in Tables 10-1 to 10-3.

Table 10-1: Noise Impact during the Construction Phase

UMK Project - Proposed Changes and Expansions

Construction Noise:

Impact on residents living outside the mining rights boundaries

Intensity Duration Extent Consequence Probability SIGNIFICANCE +/- Confidence

Unmitigated

L

Minor

L

Short

Term

L

Local

L

Low

L

Unlikely

L

Low - Medium

Mitigation/Management Measures

• No mitigation required

Mitigated

L

Minor

L

Short

Term

L

Local

L

Low

L

Unlikely

L

Low - Medium



Table 10-2: Incremental Noise Impact of UMK Project Operations

UMK Project - Proposed Changes and Expansions

Sources of noise: Additional noise due to proposed UMK Project changes and expansions in opencast, waste

dump, conveyor and Plant operations; including road and rail transport

Receptors: Residents outside the mining rights boundaries


Unmitigated

L

Minor

M

Project Life

L

Local

Within

Site

L

Low

L

Unlikely

L

Low - Medium


• No mitigation required for noise introduced by proposed Project changes and expansions.

Mitigated

L

Minor

M

Project Life

L

Local

Within

Site

L

Low

L

Unlikely

L

Low - Medium

Table 10-3: Cumulative Noise Impact of UMK Operations

UMK Existing plus Future Operations

(Excluding noise from other mines in the area)

Sources of noise: Noise from all existing and future UMK opencast, waste dump, conveyor and Plant operations;

including road and rail transport

Receptors: Nearest residents north of UMK Mine


Unmitigated

M

Moderate

M

Project

Life

M

Local

Beyond

Site

M

Medium

M

Frequent

M

Medium - Medium


• Restrict operations on northern waste dump to daytime hours 06h00 – 22h00

Mitigated

L

Minor

M

Project

Life

M

Local

Beyond

Site

L

Low

M

Seldom

L

Low - Medium



11 EMP Noise Monitoring and Management Construction Phase Noise during the construction phase is not expected to cause a significant impact at any noise-sensitive location in the study area. No noise monitoring is required. Operation Phase A need for noise monitoring is not triggered by the findings of the impact assessment in respect of the proposed Project changes and expansions. It is essential though that UMK continue with noise monitoring programme in accordance with the existing EMP. It should be verified that Residence Perth is included in the list of locations where noise is monitored.

12 References [1] SANS 10328: Methods for environmental noise impact assessments. [2] SANS 10103: The measurement and rating of environmental noise with respect to

land use, health, annoyance and to speech communication. [3] Concawe Report 4/81, Manning et al, The propagation of noise from petroleum and

petrochemical complexes to neighbouring communities, Den Haag, May 1981. [4] International Standards Organisation, ISO 9613-1: Attenuation of sound during

propagation outdoors – Part 1: Calculation of the absorption of sound by the atmosphere.

[5] International Standards Organisation, ISO 9613-2: Attenuation of sound during

propagation outdoors – Part 2: General method of calculation. [6] South African National Standards, SANS 10357:2000: The calculation of sound

propagation by the Concawe method. [7] Department of environment affairs: Noise control regulations under the environment

conservation act, (Act No. 73 of 1989), Government Gazette No. 15423, 14 January 1994.


Acoustical Engineer



Appendix A

Noise Survey Detailed Analyses



Figure A-1 Monitoring Point M1 Residence Farm Perth 23 to 24 January 2017



Figure A-2 Monitoring Point M2 UMK Security Gate – Reference Point 23 to 24 January 2017

CIRRICULUM VITAE Page 57 of 75


Appendix B

Curriculum Vitae

CURRICULUM VITAE Page 58 of 75


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Dr B G van Zyl

Ben van Zyl is an acoustic consulting engineer in private practice based in Pretoria, South Africa. After graduating with a Batchelor’s degree in electronic engineering from the University of Pretoria in 1970, he worked as Chief Research Engineer in the Acoustics Division of the CSIR. Apart from applied research and consulting in various fields of acoustics, he pioneered the principle and developed practical instrumentation for the measurement of sound intensity, a vector quantity fundamental in the formulation of sound power and various other acoustic parameters and properties. This work formed the subject of an MSc (Eng) (Cum Laude), followed by a PhD and sponsorship to develop and assess industrial applications of sound intensity in the Netherlands (Dutch Ministry of the Environment) and Denmark (Brüel & Kjaer). In 1998 he joined Denel where he worked in the SA Space Programme as Manager of Systems Integration and Environmental Test Laboratories. He also worked in the Acoustics Division of the SABS, before venturing into private practice in 1995.

Acusolv

542 Verkenner Avenue

Pretoria, South Africa

Telephone: (+2712 807 4924)

Email: [email protected]



Curriculum Vitae

Barend Gideon van Zyl - ID No 4605105089082 P O Box 70 596, Die Wilgers, 0041; 542 Verkenner Ave, Die Wilgers, Pretoria Qualifications Institution Year Completedededed (1) BSc (Eng) Elec University of Pretoria 1970 (2) BSc (Eng) Hon Elec University of Pretoria 1972 (3) MSc (Eng) (Cum Laude) University of Pretoria 1974 (4) PhD University of Natal 1986 MSc thesis: Sound intensity vector measurement PhD thesis: Sound transmission analysis by measurement of sound intensity vector Professional registration and membership

• Southern African Acoustics Institute (Fellow) Member since 1974

Career CSIR 1971 – 1989

Join the Acoustics Division of the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) in 1971; Chief Specialist Research Engineer 1981 - 1989.

• Undertake basic and applied acoustic research & development projects;

• Pioneer technique and instrumentation for measurement of sound intensity vector, leading to sponsored research & consulting work in the Netherlands (TNO 1978) and Denmark (Brüel & Kjaer 1981).

• Acoustic consulting engineering services rendered in the fields of building acoustics, industrial noise control, acoustic materials development & environmental acoustics.

Advena 1989 – 1990

• SA Space Programme: Manager Systems Integration & Environmental Test Laboratories;

• Design and commissioning of ultra-high noise simulation facilities for endurance testing of rocket launch vehicles, spacecraft, satellites, instrumentation and payload.

SABS 1991 – 1994

• Acoustic consulting engineering services rendered to industry

• Building acoustics, industrial noise control and environmental acoustics.

Acusolv Private Practice Since 1995

Private practice - Sole proprietor - Acoustic consulting engineering

• EIA noise surveys; Blast noise measurement & assessment

• Acoustical engineering design & problem solving: Industrial & Machinery noise, Vehicle noise (road, rail & air)

• Theatre Acoustics, Building Acoustics

• Specialised services: Theoretical analysis & design of multi-layered acoustic panels.

• SABS Laboratory & Field testing: Building systems and materials, Equipment & machinery noise

Papers and publications

• Several papers presented at international congresses and symposia.

• Several papers published in international acoustic journals, such as Journal of the Acoustical Society of America; Applied Acoustics; Noise Control Engineering Journal.

• Several papers published in Southern African journals. Other

• Part-time lecturer: Architectural acoustics, Department of Architecture, University of Pretoria;

• Associate of and specialist advisor to SABS Laboratory for Sound and Vibration



Ben van Zyl PhD MSc (Eng)

T/A Acusolv [email protected]

Tel: 012 807 4924 � Fax: 086 508 1122

P O Box 70596 � Die Wilgers � 0041 542 Verkenner Ave � Die Wilgers � Pretoria

Practice Profile Sole Proprietor: Dr Ben van Zyl Practicing since 1995. Based in Pretoria South Africa, Ben van Zyl T/A Acusolv is an independent sole proprietor acoustic consulting engineering practice with in-house expertise and experience in various acoustic disciplines, including:

• Building acoustics: Theatre design, offices, Green Star Rating design and assessment

• Environmental noise: EIA studies; noise modelling, noise monitoring surveys

• Blast noise monitoring and assessment

• Industrial noise: Testing, problem investigation and problem solving

• Engineering design for noise reduction

• Test and evaluation

• Acoustic materials development. Acusolv is equipped with state-of-the-art acoustic measuring instruments employed in noise monitoring surveys, measurement of blast noise, laboratory and field testing of systems and materials and as diagnostic aid in the investigation and solving of noise problems.




Ben van Zyl PhD MSc (Eng)

T/A Acusolv [email protected]

Tel: 012 807 4924 � Fax: 086 508 1122

P O Box 70596 � Die Wilgers � 0041 542 Verkenner Ave � Die Wilgers � Pretoria

Examples of projects

Acoustic Field: Environmental Noise & EIA

Project For Aspects

• Gauteng Waste Plant S E Solutions Impact study: New waste plant

• Swartland Centurus Residential and commercial development - traffic

• Mapoch II Marlin Granite Quarry Impact study: Blasting, open cast mining

• Delmas Extension: mining dev Ingwe Coal Corp Noise EIA – Plant, conveyors, trains, roads

• Twistdraai new access roads Sasol Coal Noise EIA – Roads, conveyors

• Bosjesspruit shaft ventilation fans Sasol Coal Noise EIA; shaft & ventilation fan noise rural area

• Hillendale new mining development Iscor Heavy Minerals Noise EIA – Plant, road transport

• Empangeni Central Processing Plant Iscor Heavy Minerals Noise EIA – Large processing plant

• Rooiwater mining development Iscor Mining Noise EIA – Plants, road & rail transport

• Sigma overland conveyor Sasol Mining Conveyors: Analyse sources of conveyor noise

• Sigma overland conveyor Sasol Mining Noise EIA – Conveyors measurement survey

• Maputo steel project Gibb Africa Noise EIA peer review: trains, slurry pipe

• Pump station noise Transvaal Suiker Bpk Noise EIA & Design for noise reduction

• GPMC Environmental Resources Plan GPMC Noise policy & resources plan

• Damelin College Randburg Titan Construction Assess impact of traffic noise on college + design

• Atterbury Value Mart Parkdev Land use planning - City Council requirements noise

• Holmes Place HAC London V Z de Villiers Land use planning - City Council requirements noise

• Elmar College Pretoria Iscor Pension Fund Assess impact of traffic noise on college + design

• Sanae 4 Base Antarctica Dept Public Works Noise impact design for control - Plant rooms

• New truck fuel & service station Bulktrans Noise EIA & Design for noise control

• Country Lane Country Lane Dev Land use planning – Road traffic noise impact

• Randburg Water Front Randburg City Advisor & specialist court witness

• Syferfontein overland conveyor Sasol Coal Noise impact as function of idler properties

• Twistdraai East mining noise Sasol Coal Mitigation of noise impact on neighbouring farm

• Little Loftus – The Rest Nelspruit TAP de Beer Sports bar - Impact study

• Blast noise Somchem Blast noise impact assess & design noise control

• Syferfontein overland conveyor Sasol Coal Noise impact as function of conveyor design

• Leeuwpan Mine Delmas district Iscor/Ticor Noise EIA – Plant noise, loading

• Fairbreeze open cast mine KwaZulu Iscor/Ticor Noise EIA – Open cast mining; plant, transport

• Brandspruit mine Sasol Noise EIA - Ventilation fan noise rural area

• Irene Ext 47 Irene Land Dev Corp Noise EIA - Mixed development; road traffic noise

• Irene Ext 55 Irene Land Dev Corp Noise EIA - Residential; road traffic noise

• Lynnwood filling station & car wash Town Planning Hub Noise EIA: Filling station & car wash in residential

• Lyttleton 190 Ferero Noise EIA: Residential next to N1 highway

• Twistdraai N-East Mine shaft Sasol Mining Noise EIA; shaft & ventilation fan noise rural area




Acoustic Field: Environmental Noise & EIA (Continued)

Project For Aspects

• Wesput open cast mine Petmin Noise EIA: Blasting, excavation & transport

• Gedex open cast mine Petmin Noise EIA: Open cast excavation & transport

• Kensington college Centurus Noise EIA: Sport grounds, roads

• Spandow mine shaft Sasol Mining Noise EIA; shaft & ventilation fan noise rural area

• Twistdraai Central Mine Shaft Sasol Mining Noise EIA; shaft & ventilation fan noise rural area

• Addington Hospital Delen Oudkerk Equipment outdoor noise impact & mitigation

• Fourways Gardens Country Club Fourways Gardens Music noise impact assess & design for mitigation

• Irene Ext 29 Irene Land Dev Corp Noise EIA: New township & highway noise

• Pick ‘n Pay Warehouse Meadowbrook Pick ‘n Pay Truck movement & loading: Assessment

• Irene Sports Academy Centurus Impact assessment: Sports grounds & road traffic

• Jameson substation transformer EThekwini Municipal Transformer noise: Assess & design mitigation

• Eugene Marais Hospital Eugene Marais Hosp Plantroom & outdoor equipment impact & mitigate

• Klipspruit mine wash plant Billiton & DRA Coal wash plant infra-sound: design for mitigation

• Eagle Quarry Mapochs Action Quarry new application: peer review

• Blast Test Facility Somchem Denel Blast noise impact: assess & design for mitigation

• Virgin Active Sandton Gym Virgin Active Aerobics, squash & equipment: assess & mitigate

• Conveyor noise study Bateman Overland conveyor noise: Causes & parameters

• Zuid Afrikaans Hospital Z A Hospital Chiller outdoor noise: design for mitigation

• K54 Road Tshwane Noise Study: Future road through residential

• PWV6 Road Gautrans Noise Study: Future highway noise contours

• Zandfontein mine shaft Sasol Mining Noise Study: Mine shaft & fan noise outdoor impact

• Pierre van Ryneveld Ext 24 Van Vuuren Dev Noise EIA: New township & highway noise

• PFG Glass new float plant PFG Glass Noise EIA: Future plant noise in residential area

• Sterkfontein residential development M&T Noise EIA: Road noise impact mitigation

• Sasol future Irenedale mine Sasol Noise EIA: Prediction of shaft & conveyor noise

• Ammunition demolition SA Army Noise EIA: Long distance noise impact assess

• Rietvlei Ridge residential development M&T Noise EIA: Road noise impact mitigation

• Mooiplaats / Hoekplaats Chieftain Noise EIA: Road noise impact mitigation

• Sasol Syferfontein conveyor Bateman Noise EIA: Noise complaints from farmers

• Madagascar Toliara Sands Exxaro Noise EIA: Future mining, plant, transport

• Rooipoort Mine Sasol Mining Noise EIA: Mining and conveyor noise

• Vlakplaats Quantum Noise EIA: Residential development

• Polokwane 2010 Soccer stadium Africon Noise EIA: Stadium noise in residential area

• New Clydesdale colliery Exxaro Noise EIA: Open cast mining, blasting and plant

• Grootfontein ventilation shaft Sasol Mining Noise EIA: Ventilation shaft & surface fan

• Cicada Pycna mating call study Anglo Platinum Cicada mating call – Mining noise interference

• Weltevreden ventilation shaft Sasol Mining Noise EIA: Ventilation shaft & surface fan

• Leandra North new colliery Ingwe Noise EIA: Mining development

• PTM new platinum mine PTM Platinum Noise EIA: Mining development

• Lyttleton X191 Pro-Direct Noise EIA, new residential development

• Barking noise nuisance Vd Merwe Barking noise measurements, specialist report




Project For Aspects

• Vanggatfontein Exxaro/Metago Noise EIA: Open-cast mine

• Forfar clay mining extension Forfar/Zimbiwe Noise EIA: Open-cast clay mining operations

• Luhfereng Doringkop development Bigen Noise EIA: Mixed development, train noise

• K113 Road noise study Heartland/Bokamoso Noise EIA: Road, mixed development

• Eland Mine Exstrata/Metago Noise EIA: New access road for product transport

• Sheraton Hotel Pan Pacific Property Noise EIA: Hotel impact on residential area

• Sishen Infrastructure Relocation Kumba/Synergistics Noise EIA: Railway route options evaluation

• Tharisa Mine noise monitoring Tharisa/Metago Baseline noise monitoring surveys

• Sishen Mine baseline monitoring Kumba/Synergistics Baseline noise monitoring surveys

• Sishen Mine Protea discard dump Kumba/Synergistics Discard dump location - Noise screening assess

• Eastplats Barplats/Metago Noise EIA: New vertical shaft

• Inyanda Mine noise disturbance Exxaro Noise surveys: Noise complaints investigation

• Irenedale Mine commissioning Sasol Mining Noise Monitoring: New shaft operation phase

• Honey Ridge indoor shooting range Insul-Coustic Design for noise reduction

• Sishen Mine expansion project 2 Kumba/Synergistics Noise EIA: New processing plant Sishen mine

• Sishen Mine noise monitoring Kumba Iron Ore Peer review: Baseline survey

• Sishen Mine new 10 MTon plant Kumba/AGES Noise EIA: New 10 MTon processing plant

• Khameni Kalkfontein/Tamboti Mine Khameni/Metago Noise EIA: New opencast mine and plant

• Exxaro Kalbasfontein rail load-out Exxaro Noise survey: Assess impact of railway loud-out

• Sishen Mine Lylyveld development Kumba/EGES Noise EIA: New opencast mine & transport

• Haasfontein new opencast mine Exxaro/Synergistics Noise EIA: New underground mine + conveyor

• Westlake mixed development Heartland/SEF Noise EIA: New urban mixed development

• Marlboro road M60 Heartland/SEF Noise EIA: New road traffic noise modelling

• Driefontein Mine Goldfields Noise scoping assessment and recommendations

• Bokfontein Chrome Mine Hernic/Metago Noise EIA: New furnaces and beneficiation plant

• Eland opencast mine extensions Exstrata/Metago Noise EIA: Opencast mine extensions

• Tharisa Mine EMP noise monitoring Tharisa/Metago EMP noise monitoring survey 1

• Dragline noise reduction Kriel Anglo Coal Dragline noise – Design for noise reduction

• Ivory Coast noise studies Metago Peer review

• Eskom Grootvlei Power Station Insul-Coustic Design for noise reduction - internal

• Inyanda Mine Exxaro Design for plant noise reduction - enviromental

• Swakkop Uranium Husab Project Swakkop Uranium Noise EIA: New open-cast operation & plant

• Sasol Shondoni Shaft Sasol Mining Noise EIA: New shaft and overland conveyor

• Vanggatfontein EMP Keaton EMP annual noise surveys

• Doornpoort Plaza Service Station Petroland Noise EIA: New service station on N4 highway

• Hawerklip railway load facility Exxaro Noise EIA: New railway coal loading facility

• Lusthof Coal Mine Black Gold Noise EIA: New open-cast coal mine

• Conveyor noise parameters Melco Research investigation: Conveyor noise

• Sishen discard dumps Kumba Noise EIA: New discard dumps at Sishen

• Impala Shafts 18 & 19 Impala Platinum Noise EIA: New shafts & infrastructure

• Tharisa noise complaint investigation Tharisa Minerals Noise complaint investigation, survey & assessment

• Moonlight Iron Ore Project Turquoise Moon Noise EIA: New Open-cast mine and plant

• New Largo Anglo Coal Noise EIA: New Open-cast mine




Project For Aspects

• Phola-Kusile conveyor Anglo Coal Noise EIA: New conveyor to Kusile Power Station

• Leeuw Colliery Leeuw Mine Noise EIA: Leeuw Utrecht Colliery

• Letaba Crushers F Kruger Noise complaint investigation, survey & assessment

• Sasol Shondoni Conveyor Sasol Design measures for conveyor noise reduction

• Aquarius Everest Mine SLR Metago Noise EIA: New shafts and infrastructure

• Anglo Kriel Beneficiation Plant SRK Noise EIA: New coal beneficiation plant

• Tharisa Mine expansions SLR Metago Noise EIA: Plant and opencast mine expansion

• NN Metals processing plant Bokamoso Noise EIA and certification Tshwane

• Magazynskraal Mine SLR Metago Noise EIA: Future opencast mine

• Anglo Kriel Block F AACT Noise EIA: Future underground mine & shafts

• Wallmannsthal Fluor Spar AGES Noise EIA: Future Opencast mine & Plant

• Thubelisha Conveyor Sasol Mining Conveyor noise tests & impact assessment

• SANDF Bethlehem Demolition Range Rheinmetall Blast noise: Tests & impact assessment

• SANDF Kroonstad Demolition Range Rheinmetall Blast noise: Tests & impact assessment

• Tharisa West Mine Tharisa Minerals Noise monitoring & assessment

• Impala Platinum Shaft 18 SLR Metago Noise EIA: Future Shaft development

• Kitumba Copper Mine Zambia AGES Noise EIA: Future mine and Plant

• Anglo New Denmark Destoning Plant SRK Noise EIA: New Destoning Plant

• Nyumba Gold & Copper Mine (DRC) SRK Noise EIA: Cement Plant and Quarry

• Kamoto (DRC) SRK Noise EIA: Copper opencast mine and plant

• Exxaro Inyanda Mine Exxaro Noise complaints investigation, monitoring

• Exxaro Inyanda Mine Exxaro Develop Plant Noise Reduction Strategy

• Frontier Saldanha Plant AGES Noise EIA: Separation Plant

• Sedex REE Mine Zandkopsdrift AGES Noise EIA: Mine and Processing Plant

• Anglo Alexander Project Synergistics Noise EIA: New coal mine with conveyors

• TFM DRC Acid Plant SRK Noise EIA Acid Plant extension DRC

• TFM DRC Haul Road SRK Noise EIA New Haul Roads DRC

• Anglo noise reduction programme Anglo Noise reduction design – Underground vehicles

• PPC Barnett DRC SRK Noise EIA new cement mine and plant DRC

• A-Cap Lethlakane Botswana SLR Noise EIA new Uranium mine Botswana

• FNB Faerie Glen ARUP Data Centre Plant noise study & NR design

• FNB Randburg ARUP Data Centre Plant noise study & NR design

• Mkhombi Cascade Mining Project Ethical Exchange Noise EIA screening assessment

• Eldoraigne Cricket Building Eldoraigne School Noise assessment and design for noise control

• Glen Douglas Mine expansion Warburton EIA peer review

• Mc Donald’s Generator Tshwane Municipality Generator noise compliance certification

• Southern Implants Generator Southern Implants Generator noise compliance certification

• Tharisa Mine Annual noise survey Tharisa Minerals EMPR 2015 Annual noise survey

• Eastway Centre Plants & machines City Property Tshwane noise compliance tests & certification

• PwC Building Waterfall Midrand Atterbury Construction noise monitor

• Sishen Far South Project Kumba Iron Ore Baseline surveys + EIA noise study




Project For Aspects

• Sishen Mine Kumba Iron Ore 2015 Annual noise survey

• Waterfall Mall of Africa Attacq Power Substation noise impact assessment

• Tharisa Mine Buffelspoort Tharisa Minerals 2016 Annual Noise Monitoring

• Bidvest Protea Coin Shooting Range Bidvest Shooting Range impact assessment

• Eskom Substation Riverside Lebohang Noise EIA: New electrical substation

• Glen Douglas Mine Afrimat 4 -Day noise survey

• Black Mountain Chrome Mine Umnotho Noise EIA: Chrome mine extensions

• Sishen Expansion Project Kumba Iron Ore Noise EIA: Mine expansion programme

• Glen Douglas Mine Afrimat Diagnostic surveys, noise source identification

• Glen Douglas Mine Afrimat Sinter Plant noise reduction design

• Eskom Substation Riverside View Lebohang Substation: Design for noise reduction



Acoustic Field: Industrial, machinery & equipment noise control

Project For Aspects

• Iscor New Compressor House Voest Alpine Design for noise reduction, inspection & testing

• Botswana TV centre Air-con system Atlantic Tech Design for control of plantroom & ducted noise

• Granulation plant DOW Plastics Design for noise reduction, inspection & testing

• CS2 Xantate plant DOW Chemicals Design for noise reduction, inspection & testing

• Alkylate chemical plant DOW Chemicals Design for noise reduction, inspection & testing

• SAP 4 Acid plant Sasol Agri Palaborwa Design for noise reduction, inspection & testing

• Motor pump enclosures Sulzer Design of noise hoods for large motor-pump units

• Rite Value Refrigeration Plant Rite Value Problem solving & design for noise reduction

• Sugar mills pump station TSB Design for noise reduction – noise impact control

• Pferd factory noise reduction Pferd SA Problem solving & design factory noise reduction

• Alusaf Bayside compressor plant Alusaf Problem solving & design for noise reduction

• Alusaf Bayside blower plant Alusaf Problem solving & design for noise reduction

• Alusaf Bayside cold rolling mill Alusaf Problem solving & design for noise reduction

• Sinter plant Van der Bijl Park Iscor Noise reduction strategy & requirements

• Blast furnace fan noise Universal Fans Design for fan noise reduction

• Aircraft Engine test facility Kentron Design for noise control – environmental impact

• Sulphuric acid plant noise Fedmis Design for noise reduction, inspection & testing

• Automotive assembly line Nissan Design & commissioning noise reduction canopies

• Scrubber fan noise RBM Design for noise reduction

• Ship unloader machine room noise Algroup Alusuisse Design for noise reduction

• Paint plant noise Daimler Chrysler Design for noise reduction on skid cleaner

• Mail sorting centre plantroom noise Telkom Sapos Design for plantroom noise control

• Scrubber system and fan noise Aquachlor Design for noise reduction

• Power station turbine hall noise Eskom Design for noise reduction

• Mill noise PPC Design for noise reduction in control rooms & offices

• Plantroom noise Vodacom Design for noise control in offices

• G6 armoured veh power plant noise SME Design enclosure for noise control

• Carltonville hospital boiler plant noise Gauteng Health Dept Design for noise reduction

• Refinery noise Rand Refineries Diagnostic investigation & strategy for noise reduct

• Engine test facility ultra-high noise Sasol Design for sound proofing engine test facility

• Chiller plant noise Dep Public Works Design for noise reduction

• New Chipper Plant Sappi Tugela Plant building design for external noise control

• Transformers Hawker Siddeley Acoustic test and evaluation

• Sappi Enstra Paper Mill Sappi SA Noise reduction programme and design

• Blast noise Somchem Blast noise eval; test facility design for noise control

• Mill noise Anglo Platinum Bond mill & sieve shaker design for noise reduction

• Vibration screen infra-sound problem Billiton Problem analysis and design for infra-sound control

• Bucket repair workshop S A Coal Estates Design enclosures & screens for noise reduction

• LoadHallDump vehicle noise reduction Anglo-Coal Design ventilated hood for noise reduction

• PMR Precious metal refinery Anglo Platinum Excessive ventilation noise: design to reduce

• Pebble bed ball impact test facility Necsa Noise control booth design



Acoustic Field: Industrial, machinery & equipment noise control (Continued)

Project For Aspects

• Sasol Syferfontein conveyor Sasol Mining Design: Overland conveyor noise reduction

• SARS Alberton new building SARS Plantroom design for noise impact control

• Sulzer large flow bend Insul-Coustic Design bend treatment for flow noise control

• BMW wax & seal test facility Insul-Coustic Test facility soundproofing design - Metal cutting

• Kumba induction panel test facility Kumba Test facility soundproofing

• KZN P Maritz B new legislative offices KZN Dept P Works Plantrooms and machinery design for noise control

• Alstom 32 MVA Power transformer Alstom Power transformer noise output tests

• Waterfall Boven Nkalanga Municipal New water purification design for noise control

• Conveyor noise study Bateman Overland conveyor noise: Causes & parameters

• Harvest House Pretoria Desmo Eng Chiller & cooler plant design noise screening meas

• Ventilation fan noise problem Anglo Coal Surface ventilation fan - Design noise reduction

• Sasol Syferfontein conveyor Sasol Mining Diagnostic analysis: noise generating mechanisms

• Sasol Syferfontein conveyor Sasol Mining Design: Overland conveyor noise reduction

• Metal press noise TRW Design enclosures & screens for noise reduction

• Stone Duster Vehicle Bird Machines New vehicle – Design & achieve noise spec

• Gautrain Insul-Coustic Construction sites – Design noise enclosures

• Exxaro High-frequency generator Insul-Coustic Noise enclosure and soundproofing design

• Unisa new registration building Unisa Plantroom noise predictions and design inputs

• Columbus Steel Insul-Coustic Control room and pulpit soundproofing design

• Sesane TV studios Insul-Coustic Plantroom and machinery noise reduction design

• Safour air plant noise reduction Insul-Coustic Compressor enclosure and soundproofing design

• Rustenburg Mine Laboratories Rustenburg Mine Design for machine noise reduction

• Anglo Research Lab Mills Anglo American Research lab mills, design for noise reduction

• Safripol Blowers Safripol Blower noise, design for noise reduction

• Eskom Grootvlei Power Station Insul-Coustic Design NR, boardrooms, offices

• Exxaro Inyanda Mine Exxaro Noise Reduction Strategy

• Locomotive air-conditioning system Booyco Design to meet Alstom noise spec

• Gecko Rapid Deployment Vehicle LMT Noise Reduction – Strategy and Design

• Sasol Wright 356 & Toro 350 LHD Sasol Mining LHD Vehicles design for noise reduction

• Denel B43 Chiller Plant Denel Chiller Plant design for noise reduction

• Eskom substation Fourways Insul-Coustic Design for noise reduction

• Grain Building Chiller Plant Grain Building Design for noise reduction

• In-Shere Shopping Centre Plant Golden Properties Design for noise reduction



Acoustic Field: Specialised services

Project For Aspects

• Specialist advisor to SABS LVA SABS Specialist advisor for SABS Acoustics Laboratory

• Pakistan Airforce: Missile assessment Dep Trade & Industry Assessments non-proliferation treaty

• Taiwan push-pull loco bullet train Union Carriage Driver's cabin speech intelligibility & noise control

• NRZ rail coaches Union Carriage Acoustic design for noise reduction

• Locomotive Class 9E Electrical Sishen Alstom Design upgrade - Noise reduction for hearing safety

• Theoretical analysis sound insulation CSIR & several other Predict/analyse acoustical properties of materials

• Overland coal conveyor noise Sasol Diagnostic analysis: noise generating mechanisms

• G6 artillery vehicle – Gun shot noise LIW Acoustic measurements & assessment hearing risk

• Locomotive Class 11E Electrical Spoornet Design upgrade - Noise reduction for hearing safety

• Dakota aircraft upgrade Aerosud Design for noise reduction

• Hearing damage gunshot noise SA Police Hearing conservation programme

• New drywall product development BPB Gypsum Theoretical analysis of acoustical properties

• Power generators outside broadcast Ontrack Noise reduction and field tests

• Ermelo – Richards Bay Locomotive Transwerk Design upgrade speech intelligibility & noise control

• Indoor artillery test facility Somchem Design for environmental noise control

• MUF building systems Chipboard Industries System acoustic evaluation and development

• Locomotive Class 34GM Diesel-elec Spoornet Design upgrade - Noise reduction for hearing safety




• Locomotive Class 34GE Diesel-elec Spoornet Design upgrade - Noise reduction for hearing safety



• SABS acoustic test lab validation SABS Assess & validate SABS test laboratory & method

• Mobile partitioning system L J Doors Design input to improve insulation performance

• Locomotive Class 7E Elec Spoornet Design upgrade - Noise reduction for hearing safety

• Weapons and ammunition demolition SA Navy Measurement of hi-explosives detonation noise

• Locomotive Class 19E Elec UCW New Coal-link locomotive – Low noise design

• Locomotive Class 15E Elec UCW New Sishen iron ore loco - Low noise design

• Soshalowa power car Transnet Train set power car sound-proofing design

• Locomotive hooters Transnet Study hooter audibility at level crossings

• Aluglass building systems Aluglass Acoustic panel theoretical evaluation

appendix r: noise impact assessment...

Documents