We aim to ensure
that our activities are controlled to prevent negative impacts
of our interaction with the atmosphere.
Our business activities impact
air quality levels. These can be simple impacts such as the
generation of dust from construction activities (which causes
pollution), to more complex impacts such as the amount of
carbon dioxide that is generated due to the operation of our
buildings and projects (which contributes to global warming).
We are committed to managing and reducing such impacts.
Our on-site activities by their
very nature generate noise and dust, both of which can cause
a nuisance to local communities. This is highlighted by the
fact that noise and dust nuisance were the most complained
about issue during 2001. Therefore, we have developed procedures,
which minimise the effect of our activities, and deliver specifically
designed toolbox
talk (page
1page
2) to highlight the issues and to
communicate the site specific mitigation measures to be implemented.
Specialist environmental briefings are also provided to staff
in addition to the standard toolbox talks. For example, during
September 2001 Infrastructure Services and Capital Projects
delivered environmental briefings to 71% of their projects.
Dust is a recognised problem
for the industry and our sites are proactive in minimising
this aspect. For example, a project in Cheltenham minimised
nuisance by keeping dusty activities away from the boundaries
and suppressing dust with water bowsers. This is a simple
example of the best practice used in our projects.
Noise is an area in which
we are continually seeking to improve. We work with Local
Authorities to minimise noise nuisance and if appropriate
would apply for a Section
61 Agreement. However, implementing
good on-site management techniques can control the majority
of noise issues. For example, on the Castle Vale project,
plant was insulated and piling methods were changed to minimise
noise.
The more complex issue of carbon
dioxide production is detailed in the Transportationand Energysections of this report.
Please refer to the following
case studies which demonstrate that impacts to atmosphere
are controlled;
