❓ A WA parliamentary question investigates a fuel spill at Pinjar power station during generator installation by GE, seeking details on the spill's cause, extent, remediation, and costs. The Minister provides a detailed response, incorporated into Hansard.
AnsweredQoN 107Legislative Council
QuestionView source ↗
Given the current water crisis in Western Australia and the claims of the Gallop government that it has placed such value on retaining the natural ground water supplies that it is building a desalination plant, will the minister advise - (1) Was there a fuel spillage during the installation of a hired generator by an American company, GE, at the Pinjar power station, on the Gnangara water mound, in late 2004? (2) If so - (a) was diesel oil involved, and if not, which contaminant was spilt; (b) how many litres were spilt; (c) what was the extent and depth of the contamination, and during the excavation did any of the contractors express concern that certain infrastructure was potentially in danger of collapsing due to its proximity to the excavation; (d) how did the spill occur; (e) could the spill have been prevented; (f) from the time the spill occurred, what time was taken to - (i) initiate response; (ii) fully remediate the site; (g) which environmental authority was advised of the spill and on what date; (h) on what date did the environmental authority respond and will the minister table the responses of the authority; (i) what requirements were imposed by the environmental authority to manage the spill and remediate the site; (j) what action was taken by Western Power to remedy the situation and what was the source and nature of any infill material; (k) what monitoring of water quality was undertaken, and by whom - (i) at the time of the spill, (ii) during remediation, (iii) immediately following remediation, (iv) since remediation; (l) is this generator still in operation at that site; (m) what action has been taken to ensure that no further spills occur; (n) is there an emergency process in place should this fail; and, if so, what is this process; (o) did Western Power bear the cost of the clean-up and site remediation; and, if so, what was the total cost to the taxpayer; (p) were these costs claimed back from the company responsible for the installation; and, if not, why not; and (q) will the minister table a copy of the relevant contract of hire between Western Power and the company; and, if not, why not? The PRESIDENT : I thank the member for his 23-part question. I apologise to all those others who have questions. If the Leader of the House has a concise answer, he may give it; otherwise, he may table it. Hon KIM CHANCE
AnswerView source ↗
I will do both, Mr President. I can confirm - (1) There was a spill on 9 December 2004. (2) (a) The fuel was low sulphur gas turbine fuel oil, which is a fuel similar to diesel. (b) The amount was estimated to be approximately 8 000 litres. I seek leave to have the remainder of the extensive answer incorporated into Hansard . Leave granted. The following material was incorporated - This was based on a flow test completed following the spill and the length of time the line was pressurised before the spill was detected and stopped. c) A total of 295 cubic metres of contaminated material was excavated and removed from site for disposal. The affected area was approximately 87 metres long, 5.2 metres wide and ranged from 1.0 metre to 2.5 metres deep. Electrical isolations were made around the excavation area to ensure that no electrical hazards existed. Despite all attempts to ensure safety an incident occurred were a lamppost fell over (no personnel were injured). There was some concern with digging in close proximity around the hired generator due to the potential of the foundation collapsing. Excavation was done to a safe limit and it was agreed with the Department of Environment that contamination directly below the generator would be investigated once the unit had been removed. Observations at the time indicated that only a minimal amount of contamination (if any) remained. d) The spill occurred due to operator error. A fuel sampling valve was left open. e) The spill could have been prevented had the operator error not occurred. f) i) GE notified Western Power of the spill at approximately 3.30pm, and Western Power personnel took action immediately to contain the spill and begin clean up. ii) Results from soil samples taken on 20/12/2004 did not exceed EIL’s, and the samples indicated that all contaminated material had been removed from site by this date. g) The Department of Environment (DoE) was informed on 10 December 2004. h) Initial response from DoE was verbal. DoE officers contacted Peter South by telephone. They requested details of the spill and what was begin done to clean it up. They also requested a written report, that was sent the following Monday. i) The DoE agreed with Western Power’s action in its immediate excavation of contaminated soil, bitumen and limestone roadbase and its engagement of an independent Consultant (Parsons Brinkerhoff), to confirm that the excavation had been successful in removing all contaminants of environmental concern. The DoE (and Water Corporation) also required the Consultant to demonstrate that the spill had had no impact and would have no future impact on the groundwater. j) Western Power immediately excavated contaminated soil, bitumen and limestone roadbase and engaged an independent Consultant (Parsons Brinkerhoff), to confirm that the excavation had been successful in removing all contaminants of environmental concern. The Consultant also demonstrated that the spill had had no impact and would have no future impact on the groundwater. WA Limestone supplied the fill material from the Flynn Drive Quarry in Neerabup. WA Limestone has indicated in writing that they have operated the pit for 15 years and no contamination issues have occurred during this time. Fill material consisted of sand and limestone. k) During remediation, the quarterly sampling of the monitoring bores around Pinjar was completed on 16/12/2004 and has shown no contamination. Quarterly sampling has been conducted since remediation (mid March) but sampling results have not been received yet. l) The generators were disconnected from the fuel system on 31 March 2005 and currently are being removed from site. m) i) The sample point take-off has been blocked to prevent the valve from being left in an “OPEN” position again. Note: As a precaution additional measures have been implemented. ii) A self-draining system has been installed to each of the pre-filter drip trays, and linked back to the Pinjar Bunded Drainage System. iii) A hood has been placed over the pre-filter skid to ensure that fuel spillage is confined to within the drip trays. n) Yes, Western Power has a Pinjar’s Emergency Response Plan. o) Western Power, as part of its emergency response process undertook the clean up process of the distillate spill. The estimated total cost of clean up is approximately $100,000. p) No. q) The contract cannot be provided as it is a confidential document between WPC and GEER. The PRESIDENT : I call on Hon Lynn MacLaren. Hon LYNN MacLAREN : I have been informed that I have been asked to place my question on notice. Would you like me to read it out, Mr President? The PRESIDENT : Not if the member is placing it on notice.
(1) Was there a fuel spillage during the installation of a hired generator by an American company, GE, at the Pinjar power station, on the Gnangara water mound, in late 2004? (2) If so - (a) was diesel oil involved, and if not, which contaminant was spilt; (b) how many litres were spilt; (c) what was the extent and depth of the contamination, and during the excavation did any of the contractors express concern that certain infrastructure was potentially in danger of collapsing due to its proximity to the excavation; (d) how did the spill occur; (e) could the spill have been prevented; (f) from the time the spill occurred, what time was taken to - (i) initiate response; (ii) fully remediate the site; (g) which environmental authority was advised of the spill and on what date; (h) on what date did the environmental authority respond and will the minister table the responses of the authority; (i) what requirements were imposed by the environmental authority to manage the spill and remediate the site; (j) what action was taken by Western Power to remedy the situation and what was the source and nature of any infill material; (k) what monitoring of water quality was undertaken, and by whom - (i) at the time of the spill, (ii) during remediation, (iii) immediately following remediation, (iv) since remediation; (l) is this generator still in operation at that site; (m) what action has been taken to ensure that no further spills occur; (n) is there an emergency process in place should this fail; and, if so, what is this process; (o) did Western Power bear the cost of the clean-up and site remediation; and, if so, what was the total cost to the taxpayer; (p) were these costs claimed back from the company responsible for the installation; and, if not, why not; and (q) will the minister table a copy of the relevant contract of hire between Western Power and the company; and, if not, why not? The PRESIDENT : I thank the member for his 23-part question. I apologise to all those others who have questions. If the Leader of the House has a concise answer, he may give it; otherwise, he may table it. Hon KIM CHANCE replied: I will do both, Mr President. I can confirm - (1) There was a spill on 9 December 2004. (2) (a) The fuel was low sulphur gas turbine fuel oil, which is a fuel similar to diesel. (b) The amount was estimated to be approximately 8 000 litres. I seek leave to have the remainder of the extensive answer incorporated into Hansard . Leave granted. The following material was incorporated - This was based on a flow test completed following the spill and the length of time the line was pressurised before the spill was detected and stopped. c) A total of 295 cubic metres of contaminated material was excavated and removed from site for disposal. The affected area was approximately 87 metres long, 5.2 metres wide and ranged from 1.0 metre to 2.5 metres deep. Electrical isolations were made around the excavation area to ensure that no electrical hazards existed. Despite all attempts to ensure safety an incident occurred were a lamppost fell over (no personnel were injured). There was some concern with digging in close proximity around the hired generator due to the potential of the foundation collapsing. Excavation was done to a safe limit and it was agreed with the Department of Environment that contamination directly below the generator would be investigated once the unit had been removed. Observations at the time indicated that only a minimal amount of contamination (if any) remained. d) The spill occurred due to operator error. A fuel sampling valve was left open. e) The spill could have been prevented had the operator error not occurred. f) i) GE notified Western Power of the spill at approximately 3.30pm, and Western Power personnel took action immediately to contain the spill and begin clean up. ii) Results from soil samples taken on 20/12/2004 did not exceed EIL’s, and the samples indicated that all contaminated material had been removed from site by this date. g) The Department of Environment (DoE) was informed on 10 December 2004. h) Initial response from DoE was verbal. DoE officers contacted Peter South by telephone. They requested details of the spill and what was begin done to clean it up. They also requested a written report, that was sent the following Monday. i) The DoE agreed with Western Power’s action in its immediate excavation of contaminated soil, bitumen and limestone roadbase and its engagement of an independent Consultant (Parsons Brinkerhoff), to confirm that the excavation had been successful in removing all contaminants of environmental concern. The DoE (and Water Corporation) also required the Consultant to demonstrate that the spill had had no impact and would have no future impact on the groundwater. j) Western Power immediately excavated contaminated soil, bitumen and limestone roadbase and engaged an independent Consultant (Parsons Brinkerhoff), to confirm that the excavation had been successful in removing all contaminants of environmental concern. The Consultant also demonstrated that the spill had had no impact and would have no future impact on the groundwater. WA Limestone supplied the fill material from the Flynn Drive Quarry in Neerabup. WA Limestone has indicated in writing that they have operated the pit for 15 years and no contamination issues have occurred during this time. Fill material consisted of sand and limestone. k) During remediation, the quarterly sampling of the monitoring bores around Pinjar was completed on 16/12/2004 and has shown no contamination. Quarterly sampling has been conducted since remediation (mid March) but sampling results have not been received yet. l) The generators were disconnected from the fuel system on 31 March 2005 and currently are being removed from site. m) i) The sample point take-off has been blocked to prevent the valve from being left in an “OPEN” position again. Note: As a precaution additional measures have been implemented. ii) A self-draining system has been installed to each of the pre-filter drip trays, and linked back to the Pinjar Bunded Drainage System. iii) A hood has been placed over the pre-filter skid to ensure that fuel spillage is confined to within the drip trays. n) Yes, Western Power has a Pinjar’s Emergency Response Plan. o) Western Power, as part of its emergency response process undertook the clean up process of the distillate spill. The estimated total cost of clean up is approximately $100,000. p) No. q) The contract cannot be provided as it is a confidential document between WPC and GEER. The PRESIDENT : I call on Hon Lynn MacLaren. Hon LYNN MacLAREN : I have been informed that I have been asked to place my question on notice. Would you like me to read it out, Mr President? The PRESIDENT : Not if the member is placing it on notice.
(2) If so - (a) was diesel oil involved, and if not, which contaminant was spilt; (b) how many litres were spilt; (c) what was the extent and depth of the contamination, and during the excavation did any of the contractors express concern that certain infrastructure was potentially in danger of collapsing due to its proximity to the excavation; (d) how did the spill occur; (e) could the spill have been prevented; (f) from the time the spill occurred, what time was taken to - (i) initiate response; (ii) fully remediate the site; (g) which environmental authority was advised of the spill and on what date; (h) on what date did the environmental authority respond and will the minister table the responses of the authority; (i) what requirements were imposed by the environmental authority to manage the spill and remediate the site; (j) what action was taken by Western Power to remedy the situation and what was the source and nature of any infill material; (k) what monitoring of water quality was undertaken, and by whom - (i) at the time of the spill, (ii) during remediation, (iii) immediately following remediation, (iv) since remediation; (l) is this generator still in operation at that site; (m) what action has been taken to ensure that no further spills occur; (n) is there an emergency process in place should this fail; and, if so, what is this process; (o) did Western Power bear the cost of the clean-up and site remediation; and, if so, what was the total cost to the taxpayer; (p) were these costs claimed back from the company responsible for the installation; and, if not, why not; and (q) will the minister table a copy of the relevant contract of hire between Western Power and the company; and, if not, why not? The PRESIDENT : I thank the member for his 23-part question. I apologise to all those others who have questions. If the Leader of the House has a concise answer, he may give it; otherwise, he may table it. Hon KIM CHANCE replied: I will do both, Mr President. I can confirm - (1) There was a spill on 9 December 2004. (2) (a) The fuel was low sulphur gas turbine fuel oil, which is a fuel similar to diesel. (b) The amount was estimated to be approximately 8 000 litres. I seek leave to have the remainder of the extensive answer incorporated into Hansard . Leave granted. The following material was incorporated - This was based on a flow test completed following the spill and the length of time the line was pressurised before the spill was detected and stopped. c) A total of 295 cubic metres of contaminated material was excavated and removed from site for disposal. The affected area was approximately 87 metres long, 5.2 metres wide and ranged from 1.0 metre to 2.5 metres deep. Electrical isolations were made around the excavation area to ensure that no electrical hazards existed. Despite all attempts to ensure safety an incident occurred were a lamppost fell over (no personnel were injured). There was some concern with digging in close proximity around the hired generator due to the potential of the foundation collapsing. Excavation was done to a safe limit and it was agreed with the Department of Environment that contamination directly below the generator would be investigated once the unit had been removed. Observations at the time indicated that only a minimal amount of contamination (if any) remained. d) The spill occurred due to operator error. A fuel sampling valve was left open. e) The spill could have been prevented had the operator error not occurred. f) i) GE notified Western Power of the spill at approximately 3.30pm, and Western Power personnel took action immediately to contain the spill and begin clean up. ii) Results from soil samples taken on 20/12/2004 did not exceed EIL’s, and the samples indicated that all contaminated material had been removed from site by this date. g) The Department of Environment (DoE) was informed on 10 December 2004. h) Initial response from DoE was verbal. DoE officers contacted Peter South by telephone. They requested details of the spill and what was begin done to clean it up. They also requested a written report, that was sent the following Monday. i) The DoE agreed with Western Power’s action in its immediate excavation of contaminated soil, bitumen and limestone roadbase and its engagement of an independent Consultant (Parsons Brinkerhoff), to confirm that the excavation had been successful in removing all contaminants of environmental concern. The DoE (and Water Corporation) also required the Consultant to demonstrate that the spill had had no impact and would have no future impact on the groundwater. j) Western Power immediately excavated contaminated soil, bitumen and limestone roadbase and engaged an independent Consultant (Parsons Brinkerhoff), to confirm that the excavation had been successful in removing all contaminants of environmental concern. The Consultant also demonstrated that the spill had had no impact and would have no future impact on the groundwater. WA Limestone supplied the fill material from the Flynn Drive Quarry in Neerabup. WA Limestone has indicated in writing that they have operated the pit for 15 years and no contamination issues have occurred during this time. Fill material consisted of sand and limestone. k) During remediation, the quarterly sampling of the monitoring bores around Pinjar was completed on 16/12/2004 and has shown no contamination. Quarterly sampling has been conducted since remediation (mid March) but sampling results have not been received yet. l) The generators were disconnected from the fuel system on 31 March 2005 and currently are being removed from site. m) i) The sample point take-off has been blocked to prevent the valve from being left in an “OPEN” position again. Note: As a precaution additional measures have been implemented. ii) A self-draining system has been installed to each of the pre-filter drip trays, and linked back to the Pinjar Bunded Drainage System. iii) A hood has been placed over the pre-filter skid to ensure that fuel spillage is confined to within the drip trays. n) Yes, Western Power has a Pinjar’s Emergency Response Plan. o) Western Power, as part of its emergency response process undertook the clean up process of the distillate spill. The estimated total cost of clean up is approximately $100,000. p) No. q) The contract cannot be provided as it is a confidential document between WPC and GEER. The PRESIDENT : I call on Hon Lynn MacLaren. Hon LYNN MacLAREN : I have been informed that I have been asked to place my question on notice. Would you like me to read it out, Mr President? The PRESIDENT : Not if the member is placing it on notice.
(b) how many litres were spilt; (c) what was the extent and depth of the contamination, and during the excavation did any of the contractors express concern that certain infrastructure was potentially in danger of collapsing due to its proximity to the excavation; (d) how did the spill occur; (e) could the spill have been prevented; (f) from the time the spill occurred, what time was taken to - (i) initiate response; (ii) fully remediate the site; (g) which environmental authority was advised of the spill and on what date; (h) on what date did the environmental authority respond and will the minister table the responses of the authority; (i) what requirements were imposed by the environmental authority to manage the spill and remediate the site; (j) what action was taken by Western Power to remedy the situation and what was the source and nature of any infill material; (k) what monitoring of water quality was undertaken, and by whom - (i) at the time of the spill, (ii) during remediation, (iii) immediately following remediation, (iv) since remediation; (l) is this generator still in operation at that site; (m) what action has been taken to ensure that no further spills occur; (n) is there an emergency process in place should this fail; and, if so, what is this process; (o) did Western Power bear the cost of the clean-up and site remediation; and, if so, what was the total cost to the taxpayer; (p) were these costs claimed back from the company responsible for the installation; and, if not, why not; and (q) will the minister table a copy of the relevant contract of hire between Western Power and the company; and, if not, why not?
(c) what was the extent and depth of the contamination, and during the excavation did any of the contractors express concern that certain infrastructure was potentially in danger of collapsing due to its proximity to the excavation; (d) how did the spill occur; (e) could the spill have been prevented; (f) from the time the spill occurred, what time was taken to - (i) initiate response; (ii) fully remediate the site; (g) which environmental authority was advised of the spill and on what date; (h) on what date did the environmental authority respond and will the minister table the responses of the authority; (i) what requirements were imposed by the environmental authority to manage the spill and remediate the site; (j) what action was taken by Western Power to remedy the situation and what was the source and nature of any infill material; (k) what monitoring of water quality was undertaken, and by whom - (i) at the time of the spill, (ii) during remediation, (iii) immediately following remediation, (iv) since remediation; (l) is this generator still in operation at that site; (m) what action has been taken to ensure that no further spills occur; (n) is there an emergency process in place should this fail; and, if so, what is this process; (o) did Western Power bear the cost of the clean-up and site remediation; and, if so, what was the total cost to the taxpayer; (p) were these costs claimed back from the company responsible for the installation; and, if not, why not; and (q) will the minister table a copy of the relevant contract of hire between Western Power and the company; and, if not, why not?
(d) how did the spill occur; (e) could the spill have been prevented; (f) from the time the spill occurred, what time was taken to - (i) initiate response; (ii) fully remediate the site; (g) which environmental authority was advised of the spill and on what date; (h) on what date did the environmental authority respond and will the minister table the responses of the authority; (i) what requirements were imposed by the environmental authority to manage the spill and remediate the site; (j) what action was taken by Western Power to remedy the situation and what was the source and nature of any infill material; (k) what monitoring of water quality was undertaken, and by whom - (i) at the time of the spill, (ii) during remediation, (iii) immediately following remediation, (iv) since remediation; (l) is this generator still in operation at that site; (m) what action has been taken to ensure that no further spills occur; (n) is there an emergency process in place should this fail; and, if so, what is this process; (o) did Western Power bear the cost of the clean-up and site remediation; and, if so, what was the total cost to the taxpayer; (p) were these costs claimed back from the company responsible for the installation; and, if not, why not; and (q) will the minister table a copy of the relevant contract of hire between Western Power and the company; and, if not, why not?
(e) could the spill have been prevented; (f) from the time the spill occurred, what time was taken to - (i) initiate response; (ii) fully remediate the site; (g) which environmental authority was advised of the spill and on what date; (h) on what date did the environmental authority respond and will the minister table the responses of the authority; (i) what requirements were imposed by the environmental authority to manage the spill and remediate the site; (j) what action was taken by Western Power to remedy the situation and what was the source and nature of any infill material; (k) what monitoring of water quality was undertaken, and by whom - (i) at the time of the spill, (ii) during remediation, (iii) immediately following remediation, (iv) since remediation; (l) is this generator still in operation at that site; (m) what action has been taken to ensure that no further spills occur; (n) is there an emergency process in place should this fail; and, if so, what is this process; (o) did Western Power bear the cost of the clean-up and site remediation; and, if so, what was the total cost to the taxpayer; (p) were these costs claimed back from the company responsible for the installation; and, if not, why not; and (q) will the minister table a copy of the relevant contract of hire between Western Power and the company; and, if not, why not?
(f) from the time the spill occurred, what time was taken to - (i) initiate response; (ii) fully remediate the site; (g) which environmental authority was advised of the spill and on what date; (h) on what date did the environmental authority respond and will the minister table the responses of the authority; (i) what requirements were imposed by the environmental authority to manage the spill and remediate the site; (j) what action was taken by Western Power to remedy the situation and what was the source and nature of any infill material; (k) what monitoring of water quality was undertaken, and by whom - (i) at the time of the spill, (ii) during remediation, (iii) immediately following remediation, (iv) since remediation; (l) is this generator still in operation at that site; (m) what action has been taken to ensure that no further spills occur; (n) is there an emergency process in place should this fail; and, if so, what is this process; (o) did Western Power bear the cost of the clean-up and site remediation; and, if so, what was the total cost to the taxpayer; (p) were these costs claimed back from the company responsible for the installation; and, if not, why not; and (q) will the minister table a copy of the relevant contract of hire between Western Power and the company; and, if not, why not?
(ii) fully remediate the site;
(h) on what date did the environmental authority respond and will the minister table the responses of the authority; (i) what requirements were imposed by the environmental authority to manage the spill and remediate the site; (j) what action was taken by Western Power to remedy the situation and what was the source and nature of any infill material; (k) what monitoring of water quality was undertaken, and by whom - (i) at the time of the spill, (ii) during remediation, (iii) immediately following remediation, (iv) since remediation; (l) is this generator still in operation at that site; (m) what action has been taken to ensure that no further spills occur; (n) is there an emergency process in place should this fail; and, if so, what is this process; (o) did Western Power bear the cost of the clean-up and site remediation; and, if so, what was the total cost to the taxpayer; (p) were these costs claimed back from the company responsible for the installation; and, if not, why not; and (q) will the minister table a copy of the relevant contract of hire between Western Power and the company; and, if not, why not?
(i) what requirements were imposed by the environmental authority to manage the spill and remediate the site; (j) what action was taken by Western Power to remedy the situation and what was the source and nature of any infill material; (k) what monitoring of water quality was undertaken, and by whom - (i) at the time of the spill, (ii) during remediation, (iii) immediately following remediation, (iv) since remediation; (l) is this generator still in operation at that site; (m) what action has been taken to ensure that no further spills occur; (n) is there an emergency process in place should this fail; and, if so, what is this process; (o) did Western Power bear the cost of the clean-up and site remediation; and, if so, what was the total cost to the taxpayer; (p) were these costs claimed back from the company responsible for the installation; and, if not, why not; and (q) will the minister table a copy of the relevant contract of hire between Western Power and the company; and, if not, why not?
(j) what action was taken by Western Power to remedy the situation and what was the source and nature of any infill material; (k) what monitoring of water quality was undertaken, and by whom - (i) at the time of the spill, (ii) during remediation, (iii) immediately following remediation, (iv) since remediation; (l) is this generator still in operation at that site; (m) what action has been taken to ensure that no further spills occur; (n) is there an emergency process in place should this fail; and, if so, what is this process; (o) did Western Power bear the cost of the clean-up and site remediation; and, if so, what was the total cost to the taxpayer; (p) were these costs claimed back from the company responsible for the installation; and, if not, why not; and (q) will the minister table a copy of the relevant contract of hire between Western Power and the company; and, if not, why not?
(k) what monitoring of water quality was undertaken, and by whom - (i) at the time of the spill, (ii) during remediation, (iii) immediately following remediation, (iv) since remediation; (l) is this generator still in operation at that site; (m) what action has been taken to ensure that no further spills occur; (n) is there an emergency process in place should this fail; and, if so, what is this process; (o) did Western Power bear the cost of the clean-up and site remediation; and, if so, what was the total cost to the taxpayer; (p) were these costs claimed back from the company responsible for the installation; and, if not, why not; and (q) will the minister table a copy of the relevant contract of hire between Western Power and the company; and, if not, why not?
(ii) during remediation, (iii) immediately following remediation, (iv) since remediation;
(iii) immediately following remediation, (iv) since remediation;
(iv) since remediation;
(m) what action has been taken to ensure that no further spills occur; (n) is there an emergency process in place should this fail; and, if so, what is this process; (o) did Western Power bear the cost of the clean-up and site remediation; and, if so, what was the total cost to the taxpayer; (p) were these costs claimed back from the company responsible for the installation; and, if not, why not; and (q) will the minister table a copy of the relevant contract of hire between Western Power and the company; and, if not, why not?
(n) is there an emergency process in place should this fail; and, if so, what is this process; (o) did Western Power bear the cost of the clean-up and site remediation; and, if so, what was the total cost to the taxpayer; (p) were these costs claimed back from the company responsible for the installation; and, if not, why not; and (q) will the minister table a copy of the relevant contract of hire between Western Power and the company; and, if not, why not?
(o) did Western Power bear the cost of the clean-up and site remediation; and, if so, what was the total cost to the taxpayer; (p) were these costs claimed back from the company responsible for the installation; and, if not, why not; and (q) will the minister table a copy of the relevant contract of hire between Western Power and the company; and, if not, why not?
(p) were these costs claimed back from the company responsible for the installation; and, if not, why not; and (q) will the minister table a copy of the relevant contract of hire between Western Power and the company; and, if not, why not?
(q) will the minister table a copy of the relevant contract of hire between Western Power and the company; and, if not, why not?
Hon KIM CHANCE replied: I will do both, Mr President. I can confirm - (1) There was a spill on 9 December 2004. (2) (a) The fuel was low sulphur gas turbine fuel oil, which is a fuel similar to diesel. (b) The amount was estimated to be approximately 8 000 litres. I seek leave to have the remainder of the extensive answer incorporated into Hansard . Leave granted. The following material was incorporated - This was based on a flow test completed following the spill and the length of time the line was pressurised before the spill was detected and stopped. c) A total of 295 cubic metres of contaminated material was excavated and removed from site for disposal. The affected area was approximately 87 metres long, 5.2 metres wide and ranged from 1.0 metre to 2.5 metres deep. Electrical isolations were made around the excavation area to ensure that no electrical hazards existed. Despite all attempts to ensure safety an incident occurred were a lamppost fell over (no personnel were injured). There was some concern with digging in close proximity around the hired generator due to the potential of the foundation collapsing. Excavation was done to a safe limit and it was agreed with the Department of Environment that contamination directly below the generator would be investigated once the unit had been removed. Observations at the time indicated that only a minimal amount of contamination (if any) remained. d) The spill occurred due to operator error. A fuel sampling valve was left open. e) The spill could have been prevented had the operator error not occurred. f) i) GE notified Western Power of the spill at approximately 3.30pm, and Western Power personnel took action immediately to contain the spill and begin clean up. ii) Results from soil samples taken on 20/12/2004 did not exceed EIL’s, and the samples indicated that all contaminated material had been removed from site by this date. g) The Department of Environment (DoE) was informed on 10 December 2004. h) Initial response from DoE was verbal. DoE officers contacted Peter South by telephone. They requested details of the spill and what was begin done to clean it up. They also requested a written report, that was sent the following Monday. i) The DoE agreed with Western Power’s action in its immediate excavation of contaminated soil, bitumen and limestone roadbase and its engagement of an independent Consultant (Parsons Brinkerhoff), to confirm that the excavation had been successful in removing all contaminants of environmental concern. The DoE (and Water Corporation) also required the Consultant to demonstrate that the spill had had no impact and would have no future impact on the groundwater. j) Western Power immediately excavated contaminated soil, bitumen and limestone roadbase and engaged an independent Consultant (Parsons Brinkerhoff), to confirm that the excavation had been successful in removing all contaminants of environmental concern. The Consultant also demonstrated that the spill had had no impact and would have no future impact on the groundwater. WA Limestone supplied the fill material from the Flynn Drive Quarry in Neerabup. WA Limestone has indicated in writing that they have operated the pit for 15 years and no contamination issues have occurred during this time. Fill material consisted of sand and limestone. k) During remediation, the quarterly sampling of the monitoring bores around Pinjar was completed on 16/12/2004 and has shown no contamination. Quarterly sampling has been conducted since remediation (mid March) but sampling results have not been received yet. l) The generators were disconnected from the fuel system on 31 March 2005 and currently are being removed from site. m) i) The sample point take-off has been blocked to prevent the valve from being left in an “OPEN” position again. Note: As a precaution additional measures have been implemented. ii) A self-draining system has been installed to each of the pre-filter drip trays, and linked back to the Pinjar Bunded Drainage System. iii) A hood has been placed over the pre-filter skid to ensure that fuel spillage is confined to within the drip trays. n) Yes, Western Power has a Pinjar’s Emergency Response Plan. o) Western Power, as part of its emergency response process undertook the clean up process of the distillate spill. The estimated total cost of clean up is approximately $100,000. p) No. q) The contract cannot be provided as it is a confidential document between WPC and GEER. The PRESIDENT : I call on Hon Lynn MacLaren. Hon LYNN MacLAREN : I have been informed that I have been asked to place my question on notice. Would you like me to read it out, Mr President? The PRESIDENT : Not if the member is placing it on notice.
I will do both, Mr President. I can confirm - (1) There was a spill on 9 December 2004. (2) (a) The fuel was low sulphur gas turbine fuel oil, which is a fuel similar to diesel. (b) The amount was estimated to be approximately 8 000 litres. I seek leave to have the remainder of the extensive answer incorporated into Hansard . Leave granted. The following material was incorporated - This was based on a flow test completed following the spill and the length of time the line was pressurised before the spill was detected and stopped. c) A total of 295 cubic metres of contaminated material was excavated and removed from site for disposal. The affected area was approximately 87 metres long, 5.2 metres wide and ranged from 1.0 metre to 2.5 metres deep. Electrical isolations were made around the excavation area to ensure that no electrical hazards existed. Despite all attempts to ensure safety an incident occurred were a lamppost fell over (no personnel were injured). There was some concern with digging in close proximity around the hired generator due to the potential of the foundation collapsing. Excavation was done to a safe limit and it was agreed with the Department of Environment that contamination directly below the generator would be investigated once the unit had been removed. Observations at the time indicated that only a minimal amount of contamination (if any) remained. d) The spill occurred due to operator error. A fuel sampling valve was left open. e) The spill could have been prevented had the operator error not occurred. f) i) GE notified Western Power of the spill at approximately 3.30pm, and Western Power personnel took action immediately to contain the spill and begin clean up. ii) Results from soil samples taken on 20/12/2004 did not exceed EIL’s, and the samples indicated that all contaminated material had been removed from site by this date. g) The Department of Environment (DoE) was informed on 10 December 2004. h) Initial response from DoE was verbal. DoE officers contacted Peter South by telephone. They requested details of the spill and what was begin done to clean it up. They also requested a written report, that was sent the following Monday. i) The DoE agreed with Western Power’s action in its immediate excavation of contaminated soil, bitumen and limestone roadbase and its engagement of an independent Consultant (Parsons Brinkerhoff), to confirm that the excavation had been successful in removing all contaminants of environmental concern. The DoE (and Water Corporation) also required the Consultant to demonstrate that the spill had had no impact and would have no future impact on the groundwater. j) Western Power immediately excavated contaminated soil, bitumen and limestone roadbase and engaged an independent Consultant (Parsons Brinkerhoff), to confirm that the excavation had been successful in removing all contaminants of environmental concern. The Consultant also demonstrated that the spill had had no impact and would have no future impact on the groundwater. WA Limestone supplied the fill material from the Flynn Drive Quarry in Neerabup. WA Limestone has indicated in writing that they have operated the pit for 15 years and no contamination issues have occurred during this time. Fill material consisted of sand and limestone. k) During remediation, the quarterly sampling of the monitoring bores around Pinjar was completed on 16/12/2004 and has shown no contamination. Quarterly sampling has been conducted since remediation (mid March) but sampling results have not been received yet. l) The generators were disconnected from the fuel system on 31 March 2005 and currently are being removed from site. m) i) The sample point take-off has been blocked to prevent the valve from being left in an “OPEN” position again. Note: As a precaution additional measures have been implemented. ii) A self-draining system has been installed to each of the pre-filter drip trays, and linked back to the Pinjar Bunded Drainage System. iii) A hood has been placed over the pre-filter skid to ensure that fuel spillage is confined to within the drip trays. n) Yes, Western Power has a Pinjar’s Emergency Response Plan. o) Western Power, as part of its emergency response process undertook the clean up process of the distillate spill. The estimated total cost of clean up is approximately $100,000. p) No. q) The contract cannot be provided as it is a confidential document between WPC and GEER. The PRESIDENT : I call on Hon Lynn MacLaren. Hon LYNN MacLAREN : I have been informed that I have been asked to place my question on notice. Would you like me to read it out, Mr President? The PRESIDENT : Not if the member is placing it on notice.
(1) There was a spill on 9 December 2004. (2) (a) The fuel was low sulphur gas turbine fuel oil, which is a fuel similar to diesel. (b) The amount was estimated to be approximately 8 000 litres. I seek leave to have the remainder of the extensive answer incorporated into Hansard . Leave granted. The following material was incorporated - This was based on a flow test completed following the spill and the length of time the line was pressurised before the spill was detected and stopped. c) A total of 295 cubic metres of contaminated material was excavated and removed from site for disposal. The affected area was approximately 87 metres long, 5.2 metres wide and ranged from 1.0 metre to 2.5 metres deep. Electrical isolations were made around the excavation area to ensure that no electrical hazards existed. Despite all attempts to ensure safety an incident occurred were a lamppost fell over (no personnel were injured). There was some concern with digging in close proximity around the hired generator due to the potential of the foundation collapsing. Excavation was done to a safe limit and it was agreed with the Department of Environment that contamination directly below the generator would be investigated once the unit had been removed. Observations at the time indicated that only a minimal amount of contamination (if any) remained. d) The spill occurred due to operator error. A fuel sampling valve was left open. e) The spill could have been prevented had the operator error not occurred. f) i) GE notified Western Power of the spill at approximately 3.30pm, and Western Power personnel took action immediately to contain the spill and begin clean up. ii) Results from soil samples taken on 20/12/2004 did not exceed EIL’s, and the samples indicated that all contaminated material had been removed from site by this date. g) The Department of Environment (DoE) was informed on 10 December 2004. h) Initial response from DoE was verbal. DoE officers contacted Peter South by telephone. They requested details of the spill and what was begin done to clean it up. They also requested a written report, that was sent the following Monday. i) The DoE agreed with Western Power’s action in its immediate excavation of contaminated soil, bitumen and limestone roadbase and its engagement of an independent Consultant (Parsons Brinkerhoff), to confirm that the excavation had been successful in removing all contaminants of environmental concern. The DoE (and Water Corporation) also required the Consultant to demonstrate that the spill had had no impact and would have no future impact on the groundwater. j) Western Power immediately excavated contaminated soil, bitumen and limestone roadbase and engaged an independent Consultant (Parsons Brinkerhoff), to confirm that the excavation had been successful in removing all contaminants of environmental concern. The Consultant also demonstrated that the spill had had no impact and would have no future impact on the groundwater. WA Limestone supplied the fill material from the Flynn Drive Quarry in Neerabup. WA Limestone has indicated in writing that they have operated the pit for 15 years and no contamination issues have occurred during this time. Fill material consisted of sand and limestone. k) During remediation, the quarterly sampling of the monitoring bores around Pinjar was completed on 16/12/2004 and has shown no contamination. Quarterly sampling has been conducted since remediation (mid March) but sampling results have not been received yet. l) The generators were disconnected from the fuel system on 31 March 2005 and currently are being removed from site. m) i) The sample point take-off has been blocked to prevent the valve from being left in an “OPEN” position again. Note: As a precaution additional measures have been implemented. ii) A self-draining system has been installed to each of the pre-filter drip trays, and linked back to the Pinjar Bunded Drainage System. iii) A hood has been placed over the pre-filter skid to ensure that fuel spillage is confined to within the drip trays. n) Yes, Western Power has a Pinjar’s Emergency Response Plan. o) Western Power, as part of its emergency response process undertook the clean up process of the distillate spill. The estimated total cost of clean up is approximately $100,000. p) No. q) The contract cannot be provided as it is a confidential document between WPC and GEER. The PRESIDENT : I call on Hon Lynn MacLaren. Hon LYNN MacLAREN : I have been informed that I have been asked to place my question on notice. Would you like me to read it out, Mr President? The PRESIDENT : Not if the member is placing it on notice.
(2) (a) The fuel was low sulphur gas turbine fuel oil, which is a fuel similar to diesel. (b) The amount was estimated to be approximately 8 000 litres. I seek leave to have the remainder of the extensive answer incorporated into Hansard . Leave granted. The following material was incorporated - This was based on a flow test completed following the spill and the length of time the line was pressurised before the spill was detected and stopped. c) A total of 295 cubic metres of contaminated material was excavated and removed from site for disposal. The affected area was approximately 87 metres long, 5.2 metres wide and ranged from 1.0 metre to 2.5 metres deep. Electrical isolations were made around the excavation area to ensure that no electrical hazards existed. Despite all attempts to ensure safety an incident occurred were a lamppost fell over (no personnel were injured). There was some concern with digging in close proximity around the hired generator due to the potential of the foundation collapsing. Excavation was done to a safe limit and it was agreed with the Department of Environment that contamination directly below the generator would be investigated once the unit had been removed. Observations at the time indicated that only a minimal amount of contamination (if any) remained. d) The spill occurred due to operator error. A fuel sampling valve was left open. e) The spill could have been prevented had the operator error not occurred. f) i) GE notified Western Power of the spill at approximately 3.30pm, and Western Power personnel took action immediately to contain the spill and begin clean up. ii) Results from soil samples taken on 20/12/2004 did not exceed EIL’s, and the samples indicated that all contaminated material had been removed from site by this date. g) The Department of Environment (DoE) was informed on 10 December 2004. h) Initial response from DoE was verbal. DoE officers contacted Peter South by telephone. They requested details of the spill and what was begin done to clean it up. They also requested a written report, that was sent the following Monday. i) The DoE agreed with Western Power’s action in its immediate excavation of contaminated soil, bitumen and limestone roadbase and its engagement of an independent Consultant (Parsons Brinkerhoff), to confirm that the excavation had been successful in removing all contaminants of environmental concern. The DoE (and Water Corporation) also required the Consultant to demonstrate that the spill had had no impact and would have no future impact on the groundwater. j) Western Power immediately excavated contaminated soil, bitumen and limestone roadbase and engaged an independent Consultant (Parsons Brinkerhoff), to confirm that the excavation had been successful in removing all contaminants of environmental concern. The Consultant also demonstrated that the spill had had no impact and would have no future impact on the groundwater. WA Limestone supplied the fill material from the Flynn Drive Quarry in Neerabup. WA Limestone has indicated in writing that they have operated the pit for 15 years and no contamination issues have occurred during this time. Fill material consisted of sand and limestone. k) During remediation, the quarterly sampling of the monitoring bores around Pinjar was completed on 16/12/2004 and has shown no contamination. Quarterly sampling has been conducted since remediation (mid March) but sampling results have not been received yet. l) The generators were disconnected from the fuel system on 31 March 2005 and currently are being removed from site. m) i) The sample point take-off has been blocked to prevent the valve from being left in an “OPEN” position again. Note: As a precaution additional measures have been implemented. ii) A self-draining system has been installed to each of the pre-filter drip trays, and linked back to the Pinjar Bunded Drainage System. iii) A hood has been placed over the pre-filter skid to ensure that fuel spillage is confined to within the drip trays. n) Yes, Western Power has a Pinjar’s Emergency Response Plan. o) Western Power, as part of its emergency response process undertook the clean up process of the distillate spill. The estimated total cost of clean up is approximately $100,000. p) No. q) The contract cannot be provided as it is a confidential document between WPC and GEER. The PRESIDENT : I call on Hon Lynn MacLaren. Hon LYNN MacLAREN : I have been informed that I have been asked to place my question on notice. Would you like me to read it out, Mr President? The PRESIDENT : Not if the member is placing it on notice.
Leave granted. The following material was incorporated - This was based on a flow test completed following the spill and the length of time the line was pressurised before the spill was detected and stopped. c) A total of 295 cubic metres of contaminated material was excavated and removed from site for disposal. The affected area was approximately 87 metres long, 5.2 metres wide and ranged from 1.0 metre to 2.5 metres deep. Electrical isolations were made around the excavation area to ensure that no electrical hazards existed. Despite all attempts to ensure safety an incident occurred were a lamppost fell over (no personnel were injured). There was some concern with digging in close proximity around the hired generator due to the potential of the foundation collapsing. Excavation was done to a safe limit and it was agreed with the Department of Environment that contamination directly below the generator would be investigated once the unit had been removed. Observations at the time indicated that only a minimal amount of contamination (if any) remained. d) The spill occurred due to operator error. A fuel sampling valve was left open. e) The spill could have been prevented had the operator error not occurred. f) i) GE notified Western Power of the spill at approximately 3.30pm, and Western Power personnel took action immediately to contain the spill and begin clean up. ii) Results from soil samples taken on 20/12/2004 did not exceed EIL’s, and the samples indicated that all contaminated material had been removed from site by this date. g) The Department of Environment (DoE) was informed on 10 December 2004. h) Initial response from DoE was verbal. DoE officers contacted Peter South by telephone. They requested details of the spill and what was begin done to clean it up. They also requested a written report, that was sent the following Monday. i) The DoE agreed with Western Power’s action in its immediate excavation of contaminated soil, bitumen and limestone roadbase and its engagement of an independent Consultant (Parsons Brinkerhoff), to confirm that the excavation had been successful in removing all contaminants of environmental concern. The DoE (and Water Corporation) also required the Consultant to demonstrate that the spill had had no impact and would have no future impact on the groundwater. j) Western Power immediately excavated contaminated soil, bitumen and limestone roadbase and engaged an independent Consultant (Parsons Brinkerhoff), to confirm that the excavation had been successful in removing all contaminants of environmental concern. The Consultant also demonstrated that the spill had had no impact and would have no future impact on the groundwater. WA Limestone supplied the fill material from the Flynn Drive Quarry in Neerabup. WA Limestone has indicated in writing that they have operated the pit for 15 years and no contamination issues have occurred during this time. Fill material consisted of sand and limestone. k) During remediation, the quarterly sampling of the monitoring bores around Pinjar was completed on 16/12/2004 and has shown no contamination. Quarterly sampling has been conducted since remediation (mid March) but sampling results have not been received yet. l) The generators were disconnected from the fuel system on 31 March 2005 and currently are being removed from site. m) i) The sample point take-off has been blocked to prevent the valve from being left in an “OPEN” position again. Note: As a precaution additional measures have been implemented. ii) A self-draining system has been installed to each of the pre-filter drip trays, and linked back to the Pinjar Bunded Drainage System. iii) A hood has been placed over the pre-filter skid to ensure that fuel spillage is confined to within the drip trays. n) Yes, Western Power has a Pinjar’s Emergency Response Plan. o) Western Power, as part of its emergency response process undertook the clean up process of the distillate spill. The estimated total cost of clean up is approximately $100,000. p) No. q) The contract cannot be provided as it is a confidential document between WPC and GEER. The PRESIDENT : I call on Hon Lynn MacLaren. Hon LYNN MacLAREN : I have been informed that I have been asked to place my question on notice. Would you like me to read it out, Mr President? The PRESIDENT : Not if the member is placing it on notice.
The following material was incorporated - This was based on a flow test completed following the spill and the length of time the line was pressurised before the spill was detected and stopped. c) A total of 295 cubic metres of contaminated material was excavated and removed from site for disposal. The affected area was approximately 87 metres long, 5.2 metres wide and ranged from 1.0 metre to 2.5 metres deep. Electrical isolations were made around the excavation area to ensure that no electrical hazards existed. Despite all attempts to ensure safety an incident occurred were a lamppost fell over (no personnel were injured). There was some concern with digging in close proximity around the hired generator due to the potential of the foundation collapsing. Excavation was done to a safe limit and it was agreed with the Department of Environment that contamination directly below the generator would be investigated once the unit had been removed. Observations at the time indicated that only a minimal amount of contamination (if any) remained. d) The spill occurred due to operator error. A fuel sampling valve was left open. e) The spill could have been prevented had the operator error not occurred. f) i) GE notified Western Power of the spill at approximately 3.30pm, and Western Power personnel took action immediately to contain the spill and begin clean up. ii) Results from soil samples taken on 20/12/2004 did not exceed EIL’s, and the samples indicated that all contaminated material had been removed from site by this date. g) The Department of Environment (DoE) was informed on 10 December 2004. h) Initial response from DoE was verbal. DoE officers contacted Peter South by telephone. They requested details of the spill and what was begin done to clean it up. They also requested a written report, that was sent the following Monday. i) The DoE agreed with Western Power’s action in its immediate excavation of contaminated soil, bitumen and limestone roadbase and its engagement of an independent Consultant (Parsons Brinkerhoff), to confirm that the excavation had been successful in removing all contaminants of environmental concern. The DoE (and Water Corporation) also required the Consultant to demonstrate that the spill had had no impact and would have no future impact on the groundwater. j) Western Power immediately excavated contaminated soil, bitumen and limestone roadbase and engaged an independent Consultant (Parsons Brinkerhoff), to confirm that the excavation had been successful in removing all contaminants of environmental concern. The Consultant also demonstrated that the spill had had no impact and would have no future impact on the groundwater. WA Limestone supplied the fill material from the Flynn Drive Quarry in Neerabup. WA Limestone has indicated in writing that they have operated the pit for 15 years and no contamination issues have occurred during this time. Fill material consisted of sand and limestone. k) During remediation, the quarterly sampling of the monitoring bores around Pinjar was completed on 16/12/2004 and has shown no contamination. Quarterly sampling has been conducted since remediation (mid March) but sampling results have not been received yet. l) The generators were disconnected from the fuel system on 31 March 2005 and currently are being removed from site. m) i) The sample point take-off has been blocked to prevent the valve from being left in an “OPEN” position again. Note: As a precaution additional measures have been implemented. ii) A self-draining system has been installed to each of the pre-filter drip trays, and linked back to the Pinjar Bunded Drainage System. iii) A hood has been placed over the pre-filter skid to ensure that fuel spillage is confined to within the drip trays. n) Yes, Western Power has a Pinjar’s Emergency Response Plan. o) Western Power, as part of its emergency response process undertook the clean up process of the distillate spill. The estimated total cost of clean up is approximately $100,000. p) No. q) The contract cannot be provided as it is a confidential document between WPC and GEER. The PRESIDENT : I call on Hon Lynn MacLaren. Hon LYNN MacLAREN : I have been informed that I have been asked to place my question on notice. Would you like me to read it out, Mr President? The PRESIDENT : Not if the member is placing it on notice.
d) The spill occurred due to operator error. A fuel sampling valve was left open. e) The spill could have been prevented had the operator error not occurred. f) i) GE notified Western Power of the spill at approximately 3.30pm, and Western Power personnel took action immediately to contain the spill and begin clean up. ii) Results from soil samples taken on 20/12/2004 did not exceed EIL’s, and the samples indicated that all contaminated material had been removed from site by this date. g) The Department of Environment (DoE) was informed on 10 December 2004. h) Initial response from DoE was verbal. DoE officers contacted Peter South by telephone. They requested details of the spill and what was begin done to clean it up. They also requested a written report, that was sent the following Monday. i) The DoE agreed with Western Power’s action in its immediate excavation of contaminated soil, bitumen and limestone roadbase and its engagement of an independent Consultant (Parsons Brinkerhoff), to confirm that the excavation had been successful in removing all contaminants of environmental concern. The DoE (and Water Corporation) also required the Consultant to demonstrate that the spill had had no impact and would have no future impact on the groundwater. j) Western Power immediately excavated contaminated soil, bitumen and limestone roadbase and engaged an independent Consultant (Parsons Brinkerhoff), to confirm that the excavation had been successful in removing all contaminants of environmental concern. The Consultant also demonstrated that the spill had had no impact and would have no future impact on the groundwater. WA Limestone supplied the fill material from the Flynn Drive Quarry in Neerabup. WA Limestone has indicated in writing that they have operated the pit for 15 years and no contamination issues have occurred during this time. Fill material consisted of sand and limestone. k) During remediation, the quarterly sampling of the monitoring bores around Pinjar was completed on 16/12/2004 and has shown no contamination. Quarterly sampling has been conducted since remediation (mid March) but sampling results have not been received yet. l) The generators were disconnected from the fuel system on 31 March 2005 and currently are being removed from site. m) i) The sample point take-off has been blocked to prevent the valve from being left in an “OPEN” position again. Note: As a precaution additional measures have been implemented. ii) A self-draining system has been installed to each of the pre-filter drip trays, and linked back to the Pinjar Bunded Drainage System. iii) A hood has been placed over the pre-filter skid to ensure that fuel spillage is confined to within the drip trays. n) Yes, Western Power has a Pinjar’s Emergency Response Plan. o) Western Power, as part of its emergency response process undertook the clean up process of the distillate spill. The estimated total cost of clean up is approximately $100,000. p) No. q) The contract cannot be provided as it is a confidential document between WPC and GEER.
e) The spill could have been prevented had the operator error not occurred. f) i) GE notified Western Power of the spill at approximately 3.30pm, and Western Power personnel took action immediately to contain the spill and begin clean up. ii) Results from soil samples taken on 20/12/2004 did not exceed EIL’s, and the samples indicated that all contaminated material had been removed from site by this date. g) The Department of Environment (DoE) was informed on 10 December 2004. h) Initial response from DoE was verbal. DoE officers contacted Peter South by telephone. They requested details of the spill and what was begin done to clean it up. They also requested a written report, that was sent the following Monday. i) The DoE agreed with Western Power’s action in its immediate excavation of contaminated soil, bitumen and limestone roadbase and its engagement of an independent Consultant (Parsons Brinkerhoff), to confirm that the excavation had been successful in removing all contaminants of environmental concern. The DoE (and Water Corporation) also required the Consultant to demonstrate that the spill had had no impact and would have no future impact on the groundwater. j) Western Power immediately excavated contaminated soil, bitumen and limestone roadbase and engaged an independent Consultant (Parsons Brinkerhoff), to confirm that the excavation had been successful in removing all contaminants of environmental concern. The Consultant also demonstrated that the spill had had no impact and would have no future impact on the groundwater. WA Limestone supplied the fill material from the Flynn Drive Quarry in Neerabup. WA Limestone has indicated in writing that they have operated the pit for 15 years and no contamination issues have occurred during this time. Fill material consisted of sand and limestone. k) During remediation, the quarterly sampling of the monitoring bores around Pinjar was completed on 16/12/2004 and has shown no contamination. Quarterly sampling has been conducted since remediation (mid March) but sampling results have not been received yet. l) The generators were disconnected from the fuel system on 31 March 2005 and currently are being removed from site. m) i) The sample point take-off has been blocked to prevent the valve from being left in an “OPEN” position again. Note: As a precaution additional measures have been implemented. ii) A self-draining system has been installed to each of the pre-filter drip trays, and linked back to the Pinjar Bunded Drainage System. iii) A hood has been placed over the pre-filter skid to ensure that fuel spillage is confined to within the drip trays. n) Yes, Western Power has a Pinjar’s Emergency Response Plan. o) Western Power, as part of its emergency response process undertook the clean up process of the distillate spill. The estimated total cost of clean up is approximately $100,000. p) No. q) The contract cannot be provided as it is a confidential document between WPC and GEER.
f) i) GE notified Western Power of the spill at approximately 3.30pm, and Western Power personnel took action immediately to contain the spill and begin clean up. ii) Results from soil samples taken on 20/12/2004 did not exceed EIL’s, and the samples indicated that all contaminated material had been removed from site by this date. g) The Department of Environment (DoE) was informed on 10 December 2004. h) Initial response from DoE was verbal. DoE officers contacted Peter South by telephone. They requested details of the spill and what was begin done to clean it up. They also requested a written report, that was sent the following Monday. i) The DoE agreed with Western Power’s action in its immediate excavation of contaminated soil, bitumen and limestone roadbase and its engagement of an independent Consultant (Parsons Brinkerhoff), to confirm that the excavation had been successful in removing all contaminants of environmental concern. The DoE (and Water Corporation) also required the Consultant to demonstrate that the spill had had no impact and would have no future impact on the groundwater. j) Western Power immediately excavated contaminated soil, bitumen and limestone roadbase and engaged an independent Consultant (Parsons Brinkerhoff), to confirm that the excavation had been successful in removing all contaminants of environmental concern. The Consultant also demonstrated that the spill had had no impact and would have no future impact on the groundwater. WA Limestone supplied the fill material from the Flynn Drive Quarry in Neerabup. WA Limestone has indicated in writing that they have operated the pit for 15 years and no contamination issues have occurred during this time. Fill material consisted of sand and limestone. k) During remediation, the quarterly sampling of the monitoring bores around Pinjar was completed on 16/12/2004 and has shown no contamination. Quarterly sampling has been conducted since remediation (mid March) but sampling results have not been received yet. l) The generators were disconnected from the fuel system on 31 March 2005 and currently are being removed from site. m) i) The sample point take-off has been blocked to prevent the valve from being left in an “OPEN” position again. Note: As a precaution additional measures have been implemented. ii) A self-draining system has been installed to each of the pre-filter drip trays, and linked back to the Pinjar Bunded Drainage System. iii) A hood has been placed over the pre-filter skid to ensure that fuel spillage is confined to within the drip trays. n) Yes, Western Power has a Pinjar’s Emergency Response Plan. o) Western Power, as part of its emergency response process undertook the clean up process of the distillate spill. The estimated total cost of clean up is approximately $100,000. p) No. q) The contract cannot be provided as it is a confidential document between WPC and GEER.
h) Initial response from DoE was verbal. DoE officers contacted Peter South by telephone. They requested details of the spill and what was begin done to clean it up. They also requested a written report, that was sent the following Monday. i) The DoE agreed with Western Power’s action in its immediate excavation of contaminated soil, bitumen and limestone roadbase and its engagement of an independent Consultant (Parsons Brinkerhoff), to confirm that the excavation had been successful in removing all contaminants of environmental concern. The DoE (and Water Corporation) also required the Consultant to demonstrate that the spill had had no impact and would have no future impact on the groundwater. j) Western Power immediately excavated contaminated soil, bitumen and limestone roadbase and engaged an independent Consultant (Parsons Brinkerhoff), to confirm that the excavation had been successful in removing all contaminants of environmental concern. The Consultant also demonstrated that the spill had had no impact and would have no future impact on the groundwater. WA Limestone supplied the fill material from the Flynn Drive Quarry in Neerabup. WA Limestone has indicated in writing that they have operated the pit for 15 years and no contamination issues have occurred during this time. Fill material consisted of sand and limestone. k) During remediation, the quarterly sampling of the monitoring bores around Pinjar was completed on 16/12/2004 and has shown no contamination. Quarterly sampling has been conducted since remediation (mid March) but sampling results have not been received yet. l) The generators were disconnected from the fuel system on 31 March 2005 and currently are being removed from site. m) i) The sample point take-off has been blocked to prevent the valve from being left in an “OPEN” position again. Note: As a precaution additional measures have been implemented. ii) A self-draining system has been installed to each of the pre-filter drip trays, and linked back to the Pinjar Bunded Drainage System. iii) A hood has been placed over the pre-filter skid to ensure that fuel spillage is confined to within the drip trays. n) Yes, Western Power has a Pinjar’s Emergency Response Plan. o) Western Power, as part of its emergency response process undertook the clean up process of the distillate spill. The estimated total cost of clean up is approximately $100,000. p) No. q) The contract cannot be provided as it is a confidential document between WPC and GEER.
i) The DoE agreed with Western Power’s action in its immediate excavation of contaminated soil, bitumen and limestone roadbase and its engagement of an independent Consultant (Parsons Brinkerhoff), to confirm that the excavation had been successful in removing all contaminants of environmental concern. The DoE (and Water Corporation) also required the Consultant to demonstrate that the spill had had no impact and would have no future impact on the groundwater. j) Western Power immediately excavated contaminated soil, bitumen and limestone roadbase and engaged an independent Consultant (Parsons Brinkerhoff), to confirm that the excavation had been successful in removing all contaminants of environmental concern. The Consultant also demonstrated that the spill had had no impact and would have no future impact on the groundwater. WA Limestone supplied the fill material from the Flynn Drive Quarry in Neerabup. WA Limestone has indicated in writing that they have operated the pit for 15 years and no contamination issues have occurred during this time. Fill material consisted of sand and limestone. k) During remediation, the quarterly sampling of the monitoring bores around Pinjar was completed on 16/12/2004 and has shown no contamination. Quarterly sampling has been conducted since remediation (mid March) but sampling results have not been received yet. l) The generators were disconnected from the fuel system on 31 March 2005 and currently are being removed from site. m) i) The sample point take-off has been blocked to prevent the valve from being left in an “OPEN” position again. Note: As a precaution additional measures have been implemented. ii) A self-draining system has been installed to each of the pre-filter drip trays, and linked back to the Pinjar Bunded Drainage System. iii) A hood has been placed over the pre-filter skid to ensure that fuel spillage is confined to within the drip trays. n) Yes, Western Power has a Pinjar’s Emergency Response Plan. o) Western Power, as part of its emergency response process undertook the clean up process of the distillate spill. The estimated total cost of clean up is approximately $100,000. p) No. q) The contract cannot be provided as it is a confidential document between WPC and GEER.
j) Western Power immediately excavated contaminated soil, bitumen and limestone roadbase and engaged an independent Consultant (Parsons Brinkerhoff), to confirm that the excavation had been successful in removing all contaminants of environmental concern. The Consultant also demonstrated that the spill had had no impact and would have no future impact on the groundwater. WA Limestone supplied the fill material from the Flynn Drive Quarry in Neerabup. WA Limestone has indicated in writing that they have operated the pit for 15 years and no contamination issues have occurred during this time. Fill material consisted of sand and limestone. k) During remediation, the quarterly sampling of the monitoring bores around Pinjar was completed on 16/12/2004 and has shown no contamination. Quarterly sampling has been conducted since remediation (mid March) but sampling results have not been received yet. l) The generators were disconnected from the fuel system on 31 March 2005 and currently are being removed from site. m) i) The sample point take-off has been blocked to prevent the valve from being left in an “OPEN” position again. Note: As a precaution additional measures have been implemented. ii) A self-draining system has been installed to each of the pre-filter drip trays, and linked back to the Pinjar Bunded Drainage System. iii) A hood has been placed over the pre-filter skid to ensure that fuel spillage is confined to within the drip trays. n) Yes, Western Power has a Pinjar’s Emergency Response Plan. o) Western Power, as part of its emergency response process undertook the clean up process of the distillate spill. The estimated total cost of clean up is approximately $100,000. p) No. q) The contract cannot be provided as it is a confidential document between WPC and GEER.
k) During remediation, the quarterly sampling of the monitoring bores around Pinjar was completed on 16/12/2004 and has shown no contamination. Quarterly sampling has been conducted since remediation (mid March) but sampling results have not been received yet. l) The generators were disconnected from the fuel system on 31 March 2005 and currently are being removed from site. m) i) The sample point take-off has been blocked to prevent the valve from being left in an “OPEN” position again. Note: As a precaution additional measures have been implemented. ii) A self-draining system has been installed to each of the pre-filter drip trays, and linked back to the Pinjar Bunded Drainage System. iii) A hood has been placed over the pre-filter skid to ensure that fuel spillage is confined to within the drip trays. n) Yes, Western Power has a Pinjar’s Emergency Response Plan. o) Western Power, as part of its emergency response process undertook the clean up process of the distillate spill. The estimated total cost of clean up is approximately $100,000. p) No. q) The contract cannot be provided as it is a confidential document between WPC and GEER.
l) The generators were disconnected from the fuel system on 31 March 2005 and currently are being removed from site. m) i) The sample point take-off has been blocked to prevent the valve from being left in an “OPEN” position again. Note: As a precaution additional measures have been implemented. ii) A self-draining system has been installed to each of the pre-filter drip trays, and linked back to the Pinjar Bunded Drainage System. iii) A hood has been placed over the pre-filter skid to ensure that fuel spillage is confined to within the drip trays. n) Yes, Western Power has a Pinjar’s Emergency Response Plan. o) Western Power, as part of its emergency response process undertook the clean up process of the distillate spill. The estimated total cost of clean up is approximately $100,000. p) No. q) The contract cannot be provided as it is a confidential document between WPC and GEER.
m) i) The sample point take-off has been blocked to prevent the valve from being left in an “OPEN” position again. Note: As a precaution additional measures have been implemented. ii) A self-draining system has been installed to each of the pre-filter drip trays, and linked back to the Pinjar Bunded Drainage System. iii) A hood has been placed over the pre-filter skid to ensure that fuel spillage is confined to within the drip trays. n) Yes, Western Power has a Pinjar’s Emergency Response Plan. o) Western Power, as part of its emergency response process undertook the clean up process of the distillate spill. The estimated total cost of clean up is approximately $100,000. p) No. q) The contract cannot be provided as it is a confidential document between WPC and GEER.
ii) A self-draining system has been installed to each of the pre-filter drip trays, and linked back to the Pinjar Bunded Drainage System. iii) A hood has been placed over the pre-filter skid to ensure that fuel spillage is confined to within the drip trays.
iii) A hood has been placed over the pre-filter skid to ensure that fuel spillage is confined to within the drip trays.
o) Western Power, as part of its emergency response process undertook the clean up process of the distillate spill. The estimated total cost of clean up is approximately $100,000. p) No. q) The contract cannot be provided as it is a confidential document between WPC and GEER.
p) No. q) The contract cannot be provided as it is a confidential document between WPC and GEER.
q) The contract cannot be provided as it is a confidential document between WPC and GEER.
Hon LYNN MacLAREN : I have been informed that I have been asked to place my question on notice. Would you like me to read it out, Mr President? The PRESIDENT : Not if the member is placing it on notice.
The PRESIDENT : Not if the member is placing it on notice.
(1) Was there a fuel spillage during the installation of a hired generator by an American company, GE, at the Pinjar power station, on the Gnangara water mound, in late 2004? (2) If so - (a) was diesel oil involved, and if not, which contaminant was spilt; (b) how many litres were spilt; (c) what was the extent and depth of the contamination, and during the excavation did any of the contractors express concern that certain infrastructure was potentially in danger of collapsing due to its proximity to the excavation; (d) how did the spill occur; (e) could the spill have been prevented; (f) from the time the spill occurred, what time was taken to - (i) initiate response; (ii) fully remediate the site; (g) which environmental authority was advised of the spill and on what date; (h) on what date did the environmental authority respond and will the minister table the responses of the authority; (i) what requirements were imposed by the environmental authority to manage the spill and remediate the site; (j) what action was taken by Western Power to remedy the situation and what was the source and nature of any infill material; (k) what monitoring of water quality was undertaken, and by whom - (i) at the time of the spill, (ii) during remediation, (iii) immediately following remediation, (iv) since remediation; (l) is this generator still in operation at that site; (m) what action has been taken to ensure that no further spills occur; (n) is there an emergency process in place should this fail; and, if so, what is this process; (o) did Western Power bear the cost of the clean-up and site remediation; and, if so, what was the total cost to the taxpayer; (p) were these costs claimed back from the company responsible for the installation; and, if not, why not; and (q) will the minister table a copy of the relevant contract of hire between Western Power and the company; and, if not, why not? The PRESIDENT : I thank the member for his 23-part question. I apologise to all those others who have questions. If the Leader of the House has a concise answer, he may give it; otherwise, he may table it. Hon KIM CHANCE replied: I will do both, Mr President. I can confirm - (1) There was a spill on 9 December 2004. (2) (a) The fuel was low sulphur gas turbine fuel oil, which is a fuel similar to diesel. (b) The amount was estimated to be approximately 8 000 litres. I seek leave to have the remainder of the extensive answer incorporated into Hansard . Leave granted. The following material was incorporated - This was based on a flow test completed following the spill and the length of time the line was pressurised before the spill was detected and stopped. c) A total of 295 cubic metres of contaminated material was excavated and removed from site for disposal. The affected area was approximately 87 metres long, 5.2 metres wide and ranged from 1.0 metre to 2.5 metres deep. Electrical isolations were made around the excavation area to ensure that no electrical hazards existed. Despite all attempts to ensure safety an incident occurred were a lamppost fell over (no personnel were injured). There was some concern with digging in close proximity around the hired generator due to the potential of the foundation collapsing. Excavation was done to a safe limit and it was agreed with the Department of Environment that contamination directly below the generator would be investigated once the unit had been removed. Observations at the time indicated that only a minimal amount of contamination (if any) remained. d) The spill occurred due to operator error. A fuel sampling valve was left open. e) The spill could have been prevented had the operator error not occurred. f) i) GE notified Western Power of the spill at approximately 3.30pm, and Western Power personnel took action immediately to contain the spill and begin clean up. ii) Results from soil samples taken on 20/12/2004 did not exceed EIL’s, and the samples indicated that all contaminated material had been removed from site by this date. g) The Department of Environment (DoE) was informed on 10 December 2004. h) Initial response from DoE was verbal. DoE officers contacted Peter South by telephone. They requested details of the spill and what was begin done to clean it up. They also requested a written report, that was sent the following Monday. i) The DoE agreed with Western Power’s action in its immediate excavation of contaminated soil, bitumen and limestone roadbase and its engagement of an independent Consultant (Parsons Brinkerhoff), to confirm that the excavation had been successful in removing all contaminants of environmental concern. The DoE (and Water Corporation) also required the Consultant to demonstrate that the spill had had no impact and would have no future impact on the groundwater. j) Western Power immediately excavated contaminated soil, bitumen and limestone roadbase and engaged an independent Consultant (Parsons Brinkerhoff), to confirm that the excavation had been successful in removing all contaminants of environmental concern. The Consultant also demonstrated that the spill had had no impact and would have no future impact on the groundwater. WA Limestone supplied the fill material from the Flynn Drive Quarry in Neerabup. WA Limestone has indicated in writing that they have operated the pit for 15 years and no contamination issues have occurred during this time. Fill material consisted of sand and limestone. k) During remediation, the quarterly sampling of the monitoring bores around Pinjar was completed on 16/12/2004 and has shown no contamination. Quarterly sampling has been conducted since remediation (mid March) but sampling results have not been received yet. l) The generators were disconnected from the fuel system on 31 March 2005 and currently are being removed from site. m) i) The sample point take-off has been blocked to prevent the valve from being left in an “OPEN” position again. Note: As a precaution additional measures have been implemented. ii) A self-draining system has been installed to each of the pre-filter drip trays, and linked back to the Pinjar Bunded Drainage System. iii) A hood has been placed over the pre-filter skid to ensure that fuel spillage is confined to within the drip trays. n) Yes, Western Power has a Pinjar’s Emergency Response Plan. o) Western Power, as part of its emergency response process undertook the clean up process of the distillate spill. The estimated total cost of clean up is approximately $100,000. p) No. q) The contract cannot be provided as it is a confidential document between WPC and GEER. The PRESIDENT : I call on Hon Lynn MacLaren. Hon LYNN MacLAREN : I have been informed that I have been asked to place my question on notice. Would you like me to read it out, Mr President? The PRESIDENT : Not if the member is placing it on notice.
(2) If so - (a) was diesel oil involved, and if not, which contaminant was spilt; (b) how many litres were spilt; (c) what was the extent and depth of the contamination, and during the excavation did any of the contractors express concern that certain infrastructure was potentially in danger of collapsing due to its proximity to the excavation; (d) how did the spill occur; (e) could the spill have been prevented; (f) from the time the spill occurred, what time was taken to - (i) initiate response; (ii) fully remediate the site; (g) which environmental authority was advised of the spill and on what date; (h) on what date did the environmental authority respond and will the minister table the responses of the authority; (i) what requirements were imposed by the environmental authority to manage the spill and remediate the site; (j) what action was taken by Western Power to remedy the situation and what was the source and nature of any infill material; (k) what monitoring of water quality was undertaken, and by whom - (i) at the time of the spill, (ii) during remediation, (iii) immediately following remediation, (iv) since remediation; (l) is this generator still in operation at that site; (m) what action has been taken to ensure that no further spills occur; (n) is there an emergency process in place should this fail; and, if so, what is this process; (o) did Western Power bear the cost of the clean-up and site remediation; and, if so, what was the total cost to the taxpayer; (p) were these costs claimed back from the company responsible for the installation; and, if not, why not; and (q) will the minister table a copy of the relevant contract of hire between Western Power and the company; and, if not, why not? The PRESIDENT : I thank the member for his 23-part question. I apologise to all those others who have questions. If the Leader of the House has a concise answer, he may give it; otherwise, he may table it. Hon KIM CHANCE replied: I will do both, Mr President. I can confirm - (1) There was a spill on 9 December 2004. (2) (a) The fuel was low sulphur gas turbine fuel oil, which is a fuel similar to diesel. (b) The amount was estimated to be approximately 8 000 litres. I seek leave to have the remainder of the extensive answer incorporated into Hansard . Leave granted. The following material was incorporated - This was based on a flow test completed following the spill and the length of time the line was pressurised before the spill was detected and stopped. c) A total of 295 cubic metres of contaminated material was excavated and removed from site for disposal. The affected area was approximately 87 metres long, 5.2 metres wide and ranged from 1.0 metre to 2.5 metres deep. Electrical isolations were made around the excavation area to ensure that no electrical hazards existed. Despite all attempts to ensure safety an incident occurred were a lamppost fell over (no personnel were injured). There was some concern with digging in close proximity around the hired generator due to the potential of the foundation collapsing. Excavation was done to a safe limit and it was agreed with the Department of Environment that contamination directly below the generator would be investigated once the unit had been removed. Observations at the time indicated that only a minimal amount of contamination (if any) remained. d) The spill occurred due to operator error. A fuel sampling valve was left open. e) The spill could have been prevented had the operator error not occurred. f) i) GE notified Western Power of the spill at approximately 3.30pm, and Western Power personnel took action immediately to contain the spill and begin clean up. ii) Results from soil samples taken on 20/12/2004 did not exceed EIL’s, and the samples indicated that all contaminated material had been removed from site by this date. g) The Department of Environment (DoE) was informed on 10 December 2004. h) Initial response from DoE was verbal. DoE officers contacted Peter South by telephone. They requested details of the spill and what was begin done to clean it up. They also requested a written report, that was sent the following Monday. i) The DoE agreed with Western Power’s action in its immediate excavation of contaminated soil, bitumen and limestone roadbase and its engagement of an independent Consultant (Parsons Brinkerhoff), to confirm that the excavation had been successful in removing all contaminants of environmental concern. The DoE (and Water Corporation) also required the Consultant to demonstrate that the spill had had no impact and would have no future impact on the groundwater. j) Western Power immediately excavated contaminated soil, bitumen and limestone roadbase and engaged an independent Consultant (Parsons Brinkerhoff), to confirm that the excavation had been successful in removing all contaminants of environmental concern. The Consultant also demonstrated that the spill had had no impact and would have no future impact on the groundwater. WA Limestone supplied the fill material from the Flynn Drive Quarry in Neerabup. WA Limestone has indicated in writing that they have operated the pit for 15 years and no contamination issues have occurred during this time. Fill material consisted of sand and limestone. k) During remediation, the quarterly sampling of the monitoring bores around Pinjar was completed on 16/12/2004 and has shown no contamination. Quarterly sampling has been conducted since remediation (mid March) but sampling results have not been received yet. l) The generators were disconnected from the fuel system on 31 March 2005 and currently are being removed from site. m) i) The sample point take-off has been blocked to prevent the valve from being left in an “OPEN” position again. Note: As a precaution additional measures have been implemented. ii) A self-draining system has been installed to each of the pre-filter drip trays, and linked back to the Pinjar Bunded Drainage System. iii) A hood has been placed over the pre-filter skid to ensure that fuel spillage is confined to within the drip trays. n) Yes, Western Power has a Pinjar’s Emergency Response Plan. o) Western Power, as part of its emergency response process undertook the clean up process of the distillate spill. The estimated total cost of clean up is approximately $100,000. p) No. q) The contract cannot be provided as it is a confidential document between WPC and GEER. The PRESIDENT : I call on Hon Lynn MacLaren. Hon LYNN MacLAREN : I have been informed that I have been asked to place my question on notice. Would you like me to read it out, Mr President? The PRESIDENT : Not if the member is placing it on notice.
(b) how many litres were spilt; (c) what was the extent and depth of the contamination, and during the excavation did any of the contractors express concern that certain infrastructure was potentially in danger of collapsing due to its proximity to the excavation; (d) how did the spill occur; (e) could the spill have been prevented; (f) from the time the spill occurred, what time was taken to - (i) initiate response; (ii) fully remediate the site; (g) which environmental authority was advised of the spill and on what date; (h) on what date did the environmental authority respond and will the minister table the responses of the authority; (i) what requirements were imposed by the environmental authority to manage the spill and remediate the site; (j) what action was taken by Western Power to remedy the situation and what was the source and nature of any infill material; (k) what monitoring of water quality was undertaken, and by whom - (i) at the time of the spill, (ii) during remediation, (iii) immediately following remediation, (iv) since remediation; (l) is this generator still in operation at that site; (m) what action has been taken to ensure that no further spills occur; (n) is there an emergency process in place should this fail; and, if so, what is this process; (o) did Western Power bear the cost of the clean-up and site remediation; and, if so, what was the total cost to the taxpayer; (p) were these costs claimed back from the company responsible for the installation; and, if not, why not; and (q) will the minister table a copy of the relevant contract of hire between Western Power and the company; and, if not, why not?
(c) what was the extent and depth of the contamination, and during the excavation did any of the contractors express concern that certain infrastructure was potentially in danger of collapsing due to its proximity to the excavation; (d) how did the spill occur; (e) could the spill have been prevented; (f) from the time the spill occurred, what time was taken to - (i) initiate response; (ii) fully remediate the site; (g) which environmental authority was advised of the spill and on what date; (h) on what date did the environmental authority respond and will the minister table the responses of the authority; (i) what requirements were imposed by the environmental authority to manage the spill and remediate the site; (j) what action was taken by Western Power to remedy the situation and what was the source and nature of any infill material; (k) what monitoring of water quality was undertaken, and by whom - (i) at the time of the spill, (ii) during remediation, (iii) immediately following remediation, (iv) since remediation; (l) is this generator still in operation at that site; (m) what action has been taken to ensure that no further spills occur; (n) is there an emergency process in place should this fail; and, if so, what is this process; (o) did Western Power bear the cost of the clean-up and site remediation; and, if so, what was the total cost to the taxpayer; (p) were these costs claimed back from the company responsible for the installation; and, if not, why not; and (q) will the minister table a copy of the relevant contract of hire between Western Power and the company; and, if not, why not?
(d) how did the spill occur; (e) could the spill have been prevented; (f) from the time the spill occurred, what time was taken to - (i) initiate response; (ii) fully remediate the site; (g) which environmental authority was advised of the spill and on what date; (h) on what date did the environmental authority respond and will the minister table the responses of the authority; (i) what requirements were imposed by the environmental authority to manage the spill and remediate the site; (j) what action was taken by Western Power to remedy the situation and what was the source and nature of any infill material; (k) what monitoring of water quality was undertaken, and by whom - (i) at the time of the spill, (ii) during remediation, (iii) immediately following remediation, (iv) since remediation; (l) is this generator still in operation at that site; (m) what action has been taken to ensure that no further spills occur; (n) is there an emergency process in place should this fail; and, if so, what is this process; (o) did Western Power bear the cost of the clean-up and site remediation; and, if so, what was the total cost to the taxpayer; (p) were these costs claimed back from the company responsible for the installation; and, if not, why not; and (q) will the minister table a copy of the relevant contract of hire between Western Power and the company; and, if not, why not?
(e) could the spill have been prevented; (f) from the time the spill occurred, what time was taken to - (i) initiate response; (ii) fully remediate the site; (g) which environmental authority was advised of the spill and on what date; (h) on what date did the environmental authority respond and will the minister table the responses of the authority; (i) what requirements were imposed by the environmental authority to manage the spill and remediate the site; (j) what action was taken by Western Power to remedy the situation and what was the source and nature of any infill material; (k) what monitoring of water quality was undertaken, and by whom - (i) at the time of the spill, (ii) during remediation, (iii) immediately following remediation, (iv) since remediation; (l) is this generator still in operation at that site; (m) what action has been taken to ensure that no further spills occur; (n) is there an emergency process in place should this fail; and, if so, what is this process; (o) did Western Power bear the cost of the clean-up and site remediation; and, if so, what was the total cost to the taxpayer; (p) were these costs claimed back from the company responsible for the installation; and, if not, why not; and (q) will the minister table a copy of the relevant contract of hire between Western Power and the company; and, if not, why not?
(f) from the time the spill occurred, what time was taken to - (i) initiate response; (ii) fully remediate the site; (g) which environmental authority was advised of the spill and on what date; (h) on what date did the environmental authority respond and will the minister table the responses of the authority; (i) what requirements were imposed by the environmental authority to manage the spill and remediate the site; (j) what action was taken by Western Power to remedy the situation and what was the source and nature of any infill material; (k) what monitoring of water quality was undertaken, and by whom - (i) at the time of the spill, (ii) during remediation, (iii) immediately following remediation, (iv) since remediation; (l) is this generator still in operation at that site; (m) what action has been taken to ensure that no further spills occur; (n) is there an emergency process in place should this fail; and, if so, what is this process; (o) did Western Power bear the cost of the clean-up and site remediation; and, if so, what was the total cost to the taxpayer; (p) were these costs claimed back from the company responsible for the installation; and, if not, why not; and (q) will the minister table a copy of the relevant contract of hire between Western Power and the company; and, if not, why not?
(ii) fully remediate the site;
(h) on what date did the environmental authority respond and will the minister table the responses of the authority; (i) what requirements were imposed by the environmental authority to manage the spill and remediate the site; (j) what action was taken by Western Power to remedy the situation and what was the source and nature of any infill material; (k) what monitoring of water quality was undertaken, and by whom - (i) at the time of the spill, (ii) during remediation, (iii) immediately following remediation, (iv) since remediation; (l) is this generator still in operation at that site; (m) what action has been taken to ensure that no further spills occur; (n) is there an emergency process in place should this fail; and, if so, what is this process; (o) did Western Power bear the cost of the clean-up and site remediation; and, if so, what was the total cost to the taxpayer; (p) were these costs claimed back from the company responsible for the installation; and, if not, why not; and (q) will the minister table a copy of the relevant contract of hire between Western Power and the company; and, if not, why not?
(i) what requirements were imposed by the environmental authority to manage the spill and remediate the site; (j) what action was taken by Western Power to remedy the situation and what was the source and nature of any infill material; (k) what monitoring of water quality was undertaken, and by whom - (i) at the time of the spill, (ii) during remediation, (iii) immediately following remediation, (iv) since remediation; (l) is this generator still in operation at that site; (m) what action has been taken to ensure that no further spills occur; (n) is there an emergency process in place should this fail; and, if so, what is this process; (o) did Western Power bear the cost of the clean-up and site remediation; and, if so, what was the total cost to the taxpayer; (p) were these costs claimed back from the company responsible for the installation; and, if not, why not; and (q) will the minister table a copy of the relevant contract of hire between Western Power and the company; and, if not, why not?
(j) what action was taken by Western Power to remedy the situation and what was the source and nature of any infill material; (k) what monitoring of water quality was undertaken, and by whom - (i) at the time of the spill, (ii) during remediation, (iii) immediately following remediation, (iv) since remediation; (l) is this generator still in operation at that site; (m) what action has been taken to ensure that no further spills occur; (n) is there an emergency process in place should this fail; and, if so, what is this process; (o) did Western Power bear the cost of the clean-up and site remediation; and, if so, what was the total cost to the taxpayer; (p) were these costs claimed back from the company responsible for the installation; and, if not, why not; and (q) will the minister table a copy of the relevant contract of hire between Western Power and the company; and, if not, why not?
(k) what monitoring of water quality was undertaken, and by whom - (i) at the time of the spill, (ii) during remediation, (iii) immediately following remediation, (iv) since remediation; (l) is this generator still in operation at that site; (m) what action has been taken to ensure that no further spills occur; (n) is there an emergency process in place should this fail; and, if so, what is this process; (o) did Western Power bear the cost of the clean-up and site remediation; and, if so, what was the total cost to the taxpayer; (p) were these costs claimed back from the company responsible for the installation; and, if not, why not; and (q) will the minister table a copy of the relevant contract of hire between Western Power and the company; and, if not, why not?
(ii) during remediation, (iii) immediately following remediation, (iv) since remediation;
(iii) immediately following remediation, (iv) since remediation;
(iv) since remediation;
(m) what action has been taken to ensure that no further spills occur; (n) is there an emergency process in place should this fail; and, if so, what is this process; (o) did Western Power bear the cost of the clean-up and site remediation; and, if so, what was the total cost to the taxpayer; (p) were these costs claimed back from the company responsible for the installation; and, if not, why not; and (q) will the minister table a copy of the relevant contract of hire between Western Power and the company; and, if not, why not?
(n) is there an emergency process in place should this fail; and, if so, what is this process; (o) did Western Power bear the cost of the clean-up and site remediation; and, if so, what was the total cost to the taxpayer; (p) were these costs claimed back from the company responsible for the installation; and, if not, why not; and (q) will the minister table a copy of the relevant contract of hire between Western Power and the company; and, if not, why not?
(o) did Western Power bear the cost of the clean-up and site remediation; and, if so, what was the total cost to the taxpayer; (p) were these costs claimed back from the company responsible for the installation; and, if not, why not; and (q) will the minister table a copy of the relevant contract of hire between Western Power and the company; and, if not, why not?
(p) were these costs claimed back from the company responsible for the installation; and, if not, why not; and (q) will the minister table a copy of the relevant contract of hire between Western Power and the company; and, if not, why not?
(q) will the minister table a copy of the relevant contract of hire between Western Power and the company; and, if not, why not?
Hon KIM CHANCE replied: I will do both, Mr President. I can confirm - (1) There was a spill on 9 December 2004. (2) (a) The fuel was low sulphur gas turbine fuel oil, which is a fuel similar to diesel. (b) The amount was estimated to be approximately 8 000 litres. I seek leave to have the remainder of the extensive answer incorporated into Hansard . Leave granted. The following material was incorporated - This was based on a flow test completed following the spill and the length of time the line was pressurised before the spill was detected and stopped. c) A total of 295 cubic metres of contaminated material was excavated and removed from site for disposal. The affected area was approximately 87 metres long, 5.2 metres wide and ranged from 1.0 metre to 2.5 metres deep. Electrical isolations were made around the excavation area to ensure that no electrical hazards existed. Despite all attempts to ensure safety an incident occurred were a lamppost fell over (no personnel were injured). There was some concern with digging in close proximity around the hired generator due to the potential of the foundation collapsing. Excavation was done to a safe limit and it was agreed with the Department of Environment that contamination directly below the generator would be investigated once the unit had been removed. Observations at the time indicated that only a minimal amount of contamination (if any) remained. d) The spill occurred due to operator error. A fuel sampling valve was left open. e) The spill could have been prevented had the operator error not occurred. f) i) GE notified Western Power of the spill at approximately 3.30pm, and Western Power personnel took action immediately to contain the spill and begin clean up. ii) Results from soil samples taken on 20/12/2004 did not exceed EIL’s, and the samples indicated that all contaminated material had been removed from site by this date. g) The Department of Environment (DoE) was informed on 10 December 2004. h) Initial response from DoE was verbal. DoE officers contacted Peter South by telephone. They requested details of the spill and what was begin done to clean it up. They also requested a written report, that was sent the following Monday. i) The DoE agreed with Western Power’s action in its immediate excavation of contaminated soil, bitumen and limestone roadbase and its engagement of an independent Consultant (Parsons Brinkerhoff), to confirm that the excavation had been successful in removing all contaminants of environmental concern. The DoE (and Water Corporation) also required the Consultant to demonstrate that the spill had had no impact and would have no future impact on the groundwater. j) Western Power immediately excavated contaminated soil, bitumen and limestone roadbase and engaged an independent Consultant (Parsons Brinkerhoff), to confirm that the excavation had been successful in removing all contaminants of environmental concern. The Consultant also demonstrated that the spill had had no impact and would have no future impact on the groundwater. WA Limestone supplied the fill material from the Flynn Drive Quarry in Neerabup. WA Limestone has indicated in writing that they have operated the pit for 15 years and no contamination issues have occurred during this time. Fill material consisted of sand and limestone. k) During remediation, the quarterly sampling of the monitoring bores around Pinjar was completed on 16/12/2004 and has shown no contamination. Quarterly sampling has been conducted since remediation (mid March) but sampling results have not been received yet. l) The generators were disconnected from the fuel system on 31 March 2005 and currently are being removed from site. m) i) The sample point take-off has been blocked to prevent the valve from being left in an “OPEN” position again. Note: As a precaution additional measures have been implemented. ii) A self-draining system has been installed to each of the pre-filter drip trays, and linked back to the Pinjar Bunded Drainage System. iii) A hood has been placed over the pre-filter skid to ensure that fuel spillage is confined to within the drip trays. n) Yes, Western Power has a Pinjar’s Emergency Response Plan. o) Western Power, as part of its emergency response process undertook the clean up process of the distillate spill. The estimated total cost of clean up is approximately $100,000. p) No. q) The contract cannot be provided as it is a confidential document between WPC and GEER. The PRESIDENT : I call on Hon Lynn MacLaren. Hon LYNN MacLAREN : I have been informed that I have been asked to place my question on notice. Would you like me to read it out, Mr President? The PRESIDENT : Not if the member is placing it on notice.
I will do both, Mr President. I can confirm - (1) There was a spill on 9 December 2004. (2) (a) The fuel was low sulphur gas turbine fuel oil, which is a fuel similar to diesel. (b) The amount was estimated to be approximately 8 000 litres. I seek leave to have the remainder of the extensive answer incorporated into Hansard . Leave granted. The following material was incorporated - This was based on a flow test completed following the spill and the length of time the line was pressurised before the spill was detected and stopped. c) A total of 295 cubic metres of contaminated material was excavated and removed from site for disposal. The affected area was approximately 87 metres long, 5.2 metres wide and ranged from 1.0 metre to 2.5 metres deep. Electrical isolations were made around the excavation area to ensure that no electrical hazards existed. Despite all attempts to ensure safety an incident occurred were a lamppost fell over (no personnel were injured). There was some concern with digging in close proximity around the hired generator due to the potential of the foundation collapsing. Excavation was done to a safe limit and it was agreed with the Department of Environment that contamination directly below the generator would be investigated once the unit had been removed. Observations at the time indicated that only a minimal amount of contamination (if any) remained. d) The spill occurred due to operator error. A fuel sampling valve was left open. e) The spill could have been prevented had the operator error not occurred. f) i) GE notified Western Power of the spill at approximately 3.30pm, and Western Power personnel took action immediately to contain the spill and begin clean up. ii) Results from soil samples taken on 20/12/2004 did not exceed EIL’s, and the samples indicated that all contaminated material had been removed from site by this date. g) The Department of Environment (DoE) was informed on 10 December 2004. h) Initial response from DoE was verbal. DoE officers contacted Peter South by telephone. They requested details of the spill and what was begin done to clean it up. They also requested a written report, that was sent the following Monday. i) The DoE agreed with Western Power’s action in its immediate excavation of contaminated soil, bitumen and limestone roadbase and its engagement of an independent Consultant (Parsons Brinkerhoff), to confirm that the excavation had been successful in removing all contaminants of environmental concern. The DoE (and Water Corporation) also required the Consultant to demonstrate that the spill had had no impact and would have no future impact on the groundwater. j) Western Power immediately excavated contaminated soil, bitumen and limestone roadbase and engaged an independent Consultant (Parsons Brinkerhoff), to confirm that the excavation had been successful in removing all contaminants of environmental concern. The Consultant also demonstrated that the spill had had no impact and would have no future impact on the groundwater. WA Limestone supplied the fill material from the Flynn Drive Quarry in Neerabup. WA Limestone has indicated in writing that they have operated the pit for 15 years and no contamination issues have occurred during this time. Fill material consisted of sand and limestone. k) During remediation, the quarterly sampling of the monitoring bores around Pinjar was completed on 16/12/2004 and has shown no contamination. Quarterly sampling has been conducted since remediation (mid March) but sampling results have not been received yet. l) The generators were disconnected from the fuel system on 31 March 2005 and currently are being removed from site. m) i) The sample point take-off has been blocked to prevent the valve from being left in an “OPEN” position again. Note: As a precaution additional measures have been implemented. ii) A self-draining system has been installed to each of the pre-filter drip trays, and linked back to the Pinjar Bunded Drainage System. iii) A hood has been placed over the pre-filter skid to ensure that fuel spillage is confined to within the drip trays. n) Yes, Western Power has a Pinjar’s Emergency Response Plan. o) Western Power, as part of its emergency response process undertook the clean up process of the distillate spill. The estimated total cost of clean up is approximately $100,000. p) No. q) The contract cannot be provided as it is a confidential document between WPC and GEER. The PRESIDENT : I call on Hon Lynn MacLaren. Hon LYNN MacLAREN : I have been informed that I have been asked to place my question on notice. Would you like me to read it out, Mr President? The PRESIDENT : Not if the member is placing it on notice.
(1) There was a spill on 9 December 2004. (2) (a) The fuel was low sulphur gas turbine fuel oil, which is a fuel similar to diesel. (b) The amount was estimated to be approximately 8 000 litres. I seek leave to have the remainder of the extensive answer incorporated into Hansard . Leave granted. The following material was incorporated - This was based on a flow test completed following the spill and the length of time the line was pressurised before the spill was detected and stopped. c) A total of 295 cubic metres of contaminated material was excavated and removed from site for disposal. The affected area was approximately 87 metres long, 5.2 metres wide and ranged from 1.0 metre to 2.5 metres deep. Electrical isolations were made around the excavation area to ensure that no electrical hazards existed. Despite all attempts to ensure safety an incident occurred were a lamppost fell over (no personnel were injured). There was some concern with digging in close proximity around the hired generator due to the potential of the foundation collapsing. Excavation was done to a safe limit and it was agreed with the Department of Environment that contamination directly below the generator would be investigated once the unit had been removed. Observations at the time indicated that only a minimal amount of contamination (if any) remained. d) The spill occurred due to operator error. A fuel sampling valve was left open. e) The spill could have been prevented had the operator error not occurred. f) i) GE notified Western Power of the spill at approximately 3.30pm, and Western Power personnel took action immediately to contain the spill and begin clean up. ii) Results from soil samples taken on 20/12/2004 did not exceed EIL’s, and the samples indicated that all contaminated material had been removed from site by this date. g) The Department of Environment (DoE) was informed on 10 December 2004. h) Initial response from DoE was verbal. DoE officers contacted Peter South by telephone. They requested details of the spill and what was begin done to clean it up. They also requested a written report, that was sent the following Monday. i) The DoE agreed with Western Power’s action in its immediate excavation of contaminated soil, bitumen and limestone roadbase and its engagement of an independent Consultant (Parsons Brinkerhoff), to confirm that the excavation had been successful in removing all contaminants of environmental concern. The DoE (and Water Corporation) also required the Consultant to demonstrate that the spill had had no impact and would have no future impact on the groundwater. j) Western Power immediately excavated contaminated soil, bitumen and limestone roadbase and engaged an independent Consultant (Parsons Brinkerhoff), to confirm that the excavation had been successful in removing all contaminants of environmental concern. The Consultant also demonstrated that the spill had had no impact and would have no future impact on the groundwater. WA Limestone supplied the fill material from the Flynn Drive Quarry in Neerabup. WA Limestone has indicated in writing that they have operated the pit for 15 years and no contamination issues have occurred during this time. Fill material consisted of sand and limestone. k) During remediation, the quarterly sampling of the monitoring bores around Pinjar was completed on 16/12/2004 and has shown no contamination. Quarterly sampling has been conducted since remediation (mid March) but sampling results have not been received yet. l) The generators were disconnected from the fuel system on 31 March 2005 and currently are being removed from site. m) i) The sample point take-off has been blocked to prevent the valve from being left in an “OPEN” position again. Note: As a precaution additional measures have been implemented. ii) A self-draining system has been installed to each of the pre-filter drip trays, and linked back to the Pinjar Bunded Drainage System. iii) A hood has been placed over the pre-filter skid to ensure that fuel spillage is confined to within the drip trays. n) Yes, Western Power has a Pinjar’s Emergency Response Plan. o) Western Power, as part of its emergency response process undertook the clean up process of the distillate spill. The estimated total cost of clean up is approximately $100,000. p) No. q) The contract cannot be provided as it is a confidential document between WPC and GEER. The PRESIDENT : I call on Hon Lynn MacLaren. Hon LYNN MacLAREN : I have been informed that I have been asked to place my question on notice. Would you like me to read it out, Mr President? The PRESIDENT : Not if the member is placing it on notice.
(2) (a) The fuel was low sulphur gas turbine fuel oil, which is a fuel similar to diesel. (b) The amount was estimated to be approximately 8 000 litres. I seek leave to have the remainder of the extensive answer incorporated into Hansard . Leave granted. The following material was incorporated - This was based on a flow test completed following the spill and the length of time the line was pressurised before the spill was detected and stopped. c) A total of 295 cubic metres of contaminated material was excavated and removed from site for disposal. The affected area was approximately 87 metres long, 5.2 metres wide and ranged from 1.0 metre to 2.5 metres deep. Electrical isolations were made around the excavation area to ensure that no electrical hazards existed. Despite all attempts to ensure safety an incident occurred were a lamppost fell over (no personnel were injured). There was some concern with digging in close proximity around the hired generator due to the potential of the foundation collapsing. Excavation was done to a safe limit and it was agreed with the Department of Environment that contamination directly below the generator would be investigated once the unit had been removed. Observations at the time indicated that only a minimal amount of contamination (if any) remained. d) The spill occurred due to operator error. A fuel sampling valve was left open. e) The spill could have been prevented had the operator error not occurred. f) i) GE notified Western Power of the spill at approximately 3.30pm, and Western Power personnel took action immediately to contain the spill and begin clean up. ii) Results from soil samples taken on 20/12/2004 did not exceed EIL’s, and the samples indicated that all contaminated material had been removed from site by this date. g) The Department of Environment (DoE) was informed on 10 December 2004. h) Initial response from DoE was verbal. DoE officers contacted Peter South by telephone. They requested details of the spill and what was begin done to clean it up. They also requested a written report, that was sent the following Monday. i) The DoE agreed with Western Power’s action in its immediate excavation of contaminated soil, bitumen and limestone roadbase and its engagement of an independent Consultant (Parsons Brinkerhoff), to confirm that the excavation had been successful in removing all contaminants of environmental concern. The DoE (and Water Corporation) also required the Consultant to demonstrate that the spill had had no impact and would have no future impact on the groundwater. j) Western Power immediately excavated contaminated soil, bitumen and limestone roadbase and engaged an independent Consultant (Parsons Brinkerhoff), to confirm that the excavation had been successful in removing all contaminants of environmental concern. The Consultant also demonstrated that the spill had had no impact and would have no future impact on the groundwater. WA Limestone supplied the fill material from the Flynn Drive Quarry in Neerabup. WA Limestone has indicated in writing that they have operated the pit for 15 years and no contamination issues have occurred during this time. Fill material consisted of sand and limestone. k) During remediation, the quarterly sampling of the monitoring bores around Pinjar was completed on 16/12/2004 and has shown no contamination. Quarterly sampling has been conducted since remediation (mid March) but sampling results have not been received yet. l) The generators were disconnected from the fuel system on 31 March 2005 and currently are being removed from site. m) i) The sample point take-off has been blocked to prevent the valve from being left in an “OPEN” position again. Note: As a precaution additional measures have been implemented. ii) A self-draining system has been installed to each of the pre-filter drip trays, and linked back to the Pinjar Bunded Drainage System. iii) A hood has been placed over the pre-filter skid to ensure that fuel spillage is confined to within the drip trays. n) Yes, Western Power has a Pinjar’s Emergency Response Plan. o) Western Power, as part of its emergency response process undertook the clean up process of the distillate spill. The estimated total cost of clean up is approximately $100,000. p) No. q) The contract cannot be provided as it is a confidential document between WPC and GEER. The PRESIDENT : I call on Hon Lynn MacLaren. Hon LYNN MacLAREN : I have been informed that I have been asked to place my question on notice. Would you like me to read it out, Mr President? The PRESIDENT : Not if the member is placing it on notice.
Leave granted. The following material was incorporated - This was based on a flow test completed following the spill and the length of time the line was pressurised before the spill was detected and stopped. c) A total of 295 cubic metres of contaminated material was excavated and removed from site for disposal. The affected area was approximately 87 metres long, 5.2 metres wide and ranged from 1.0 metre to 2.5 metres deep. Electrical isolations were made around the excavation area to ensure that no electrical hazards existed. Despite all attempts to ensure safety an incident occurred were a lamppost fell over (no personnel were injured). There was some concern with digging in close proximity around the hired generator due to the potential of the foundation collapsing. Excavation was done to a safe limit and it was agreed with the Department of Environment that contamination directly below the generator would be investigated once the unit had been removed. Observations at the time indicated that only a minimal amount of contamination (if any) remained. d) The spill occurred due to operator error. A fuel sampling valve was left open. e) The spill could have been prevented had the operator error not occurred. f) i) GE notified Western Power of the spill at approximately 3.30pm, and Western Power personnel took action immediately to contain the spill and begin clean up. ii) Results from soil samples taken on 20/12/2004 did not exceed EIL’s, and the samples indicated that all contaminated material had been removed from site by this date. g) The Department of Environment (DoE) was informed on 10 December 2004. h) Initial response from DoE was verbal. DoE officers contacted Peter South by telephone. They requested details of the spill and what was begin done to clean it up. They also requested a written report, that was sent the following Monday. i) The DoE agreed with Western Power’s action in its immediate excavation of contaminated soil, bitumen and limestone roadbase and its engagement of an independent Consultant (Parsons Brinkerhoff), to confirm that the excavation had been successful in removing all contaminants of environmental concern. The DoE (and Water Corporation) also required the Consultant to demonstrate that the spill had had no impact and would have no future impact on the groundwater. j) Western Power immediately excavated contaminated soil, bitumen and limestone roadbase and engaged an independent Consultant (Parsons Brinkerhoff), to confirm that the excavation had been successful in removing all contaminants of environmental concern. The Consultant also demonstrated that the spill had had no impact and would have no future impact on the groundwater. WA Limestone supplied the fill material from the Flynn Drive Quarry in Neerabup. WA Limestone has indicated in writing that they have operated the pit for 15 years and no contamination issues have occurred during this time. Fill material consisted of sand and limestone. k) During remediation, the quarterly sampling of the monitoring bores around Pinjar was completed on 16/12/2004 and has shown no contamination. Quarterly sampling has been conducted since remediation (mid March) but sampling results have not been received yet. l) The generators were disconnected from the fuel system on 31 March 2005 and currently are being removed from site. m) i) The sample point take-off has been blocked to prevent the valve from being left in an “OPEN” position again. Note: As a precaution additional measures have been implemented. ii) A self-draining system has been installed to each of the pre-filter drip trays, and linked back to the Pinjar Bunded Drainage System. iii) A hood has been placed over the pre-filter skid to ensure that fuel spillage is confined to within the drip trays. n) Yes, Western Power has a Pinjar’s Emergency Response Plan. o) Western Power, as part of its emergency response process undertook the clean up process of the distillate spill. The estimated total cost of clean up is approximately $100,000. p) No. q) The contract cannot be provided as it is a confidential document between WPC and GEER. The PRESIDENT : I call on Hon Lynn MacLaren. Hon LYNN MacLAREN : I have been informed that I have been asked to place my question on notice. Would you like me to read it out, Mr President? The PRESIDENT : Not if the member is placing it on notice.
The following material was incorporated - This was based on a flow test completed following the spill and the length of time the line was pressurised before the spill was detected and stopped. c) A total of 295 cubic metres of contaminated material was excavated and removed from site for disposal. The affected area was approximately 87 metres long, 5.2 metres wide and ranged from 1.0 metre to 2.5 metres deep. Electrical isolations were made around the excavation area to ensure that no electrical hazards existed. Despite all attempts to ensure safety an incident occurred were a lamppost fell over (no personnel were injured). There was some concern with digging in close proximity around the hired generator due to the potential of the foundation collapsing. Excavation was done to a safe limit and it was agreed with the Department of Environment that contamination directly below the generator would be investigated once the unit had been removed. Observations at the time indicated that only a minimal amount of contamination (if any) remained. d) The spill occurred due to operator error. A fuel sampling valve was left open. e) The spill could have been prevented had the operator error not occurred. f) i) GE notified Western Power of the spill at approximately 3.30pm, and Western Power personnel took action immediately to contain the spill and begin clean up. ii) Results from soil samples taken on 20/12/2004 did not exceed EIL’s, and the samples indicated that all contaminated material had been removed from site by this date. g) The Department of Environment (DoE) was informed on 10 December 2004. h) Initial response from DoE was verbal. DoE officers contacted Peter South by telephone. They requested details of the spill and what was begin done to clean it up. They also requested a written report, that was sent the following Monday. i) The DoE agreed with Western Power’s action in its immediate excavation of contaminated soil, bitumen and limestone roadbase and its engagement of an independent Consultant (Parsons Brinkerhoff), to confirm that the excavation had been successful in removing all contaminants of environmental concern. The DoE (and Water Corporation) also required the Consultant to demonstrate that the spill had had no impact and would have no future impact on the groundwater. j) Western Power immediately excavated contaminated soil, bitumen and limestone roadbase and engaged an independent Consultant (Parsons Brinkerhoff), to confirm that the excavation had been successful in removing all contaminants of environmental concern. The Consultant also demonstrated that the spill had had no impact and would have no future impact on the groundwater. WA Limestone supplied the fill material from the Flynn Drive Quarry in Neerabup. WA Limestone has indicated in writing that they have operated the pit for 15 years and no contamination issues have occurred during this time. Fill material consisted of sand and limestone. k) During remediation, the quarterly sampling of the monitoring bores around Pinjar was completed on 16/12/2004 and has shown no contamination. Quarterly sampling has been conducted since remediation (mid March) but sampling results have not been received yet. l) The generators were disconnected from the fuel system on 31 March 2005 and currently are being removed from site. m) i) The sample point take-off has been blocked to prevent the valve from being left in an “OPEN” position again. Note: As a precaution additional measures have been implemented. ii) A self-draining system has been installed to each of the pre-filter drip trays, and linked back to the Pinjar Bunded Drainage System. iii) A hood has been placed over the pre-filter skid to ensure that fuel spillage is confined to within the drip trays. n) Yes, Western Power has a Pinjar’s Emergency Response Plan. o) Western Power, as part of its emergency response process undertook the clean up process of the distillate spill. The estimated total cost of clean up is approximately $100,000. p) No. q) The contract cannot be provided as it is a confidential document between WPC and GEER. The PRESIDENT : I call on Hon Lynn MacLaren. Hon LYNN MacLAREN : I have been informed that I have been asked to place my question on notice. Would you like me to read it out, Mr President? The PRESIDENT : Not if the member is placing it on notice.
d) The spill occurred due to operator error. A fuel sampling valve was left open. e) The spill could have been prevented had the operator error not occurred. f) i) GE notified Western Power of the spill at approximately 3.30pm, and Western Power personnel took action immediately to contain the spill and begin clean up. ii) Results from soil samples taken on 20/12/2004 did not exceed EIL’s, and the samples indicated that all contaminated material had been removed from site by this date. g) The Department of Environment (DoE) was informed on 10 December 2004. h) Initial response from DoE was verbal. DoE officers contacted Peter South by telephone. They requested details of the spill and what was begin done to clean it up. They also requested a written report, that was sent the following Monday. i) The DoE agreed with Western Power’s action in its immediate excavation of contaminated soil, bitumen and limestone roadbase and its engagement of an independent Consultant (Parsons Brinkerhoff), to confirm that the excavation had been successful in removing all contaminants of environmental concern. The DoE (and Water Corporation) also required the Consultant to demonstrate that the spill had had no impact and would have no future impact on the groundwater. j) Western Power immediately excavated contaminated soil, bitumen and limestone roadbase and engaged an independent Consultant (Parsons Brinkerhoff), to confirm that the excavation had been successful in removing all contaminants of environmental concern. The Consultant also demonstrated that the spill had had no impact and would have no future impact on the groundwater. WA Limestone supplied the fill material from the Flynn Drive Quarry in Neerabup. WA Limestone has indicated in writing that they have operated the pit for 15 years and no contamination issues have occurred during this time. Fill material consisted of sand and limestone. k) During remediation, the quarterly sampling of the monitoring bores around Pinjar was completed on 16/12/2004 and has shown no contamination. Quarterly sampling has been conducted since remediation (mid March) but sampling results have not been received yet. l) The generators were disconnected from the fuel system on 31 March 2005 and currently are being removed from site. m) i) The sample point take-off has been blocked to prevent the valve from being left in an “OPEN” position again. Note: As a precaution additional measures have been implemented. ii) A self-draining system has been installed to each of the pre-filter drip trays, and linked back to the Pinjar Bunded Drainage System. iii) A hood has been placed over the pre-filter skid to ensure that fuel spillage is confined to within the drip trays. n) Yes, Western Power has a Pinjar’s Emergency Response Plan. o) Western Power, as part of its emergency response process undertook the clean up process of the distillate spill. The estimated total cost of clean up is approximately $100,000. p) No. q) The contract cannot be provided as it is a confidential document between WPC and GEER.
e) The spill could have been prevented had the operator error not occurred. f) i) GE notified Western Power of the spill at approximately 3.30pm, and Western Power personnel took action immediately to contain the spill and begin clean up. ii) Results from soil samples taken on 20/12/2004 did not exceed EIL’s, and the samples indicated that all contaminated material had been removed from site by this date. g) The Department of Environment (DoE) was informed on 10 December 2004. h) Initial response from DoE was verbal. DoE officers contacted Peter South by telephone. They requested details of the spill and what was begin done to clean it up. They also requested a written report, that was sent the following Monday. i) The DoE agreed with Western Power’s action in its immediate excavation of contaminated soil, bitumen and limestone roadbase and its engagement of an independent Consultant (Parsons Brinkerhoff), to confirm that the excavation had been successful in removing all contaminants of environmental concern. The DoE (and Water Corporation) also required the Consultant to demonstrate that the spill had had no impact and would have no future impact on the groundwater. j) Western Power immediately excavated contaminated soil, bitumen and limestone roadbase and engaged an independent Consultant (Parsons Brinkerhoff), to confirm that the excavation had been successful in removing all contaminants of environmental concern. The Consultant also demonstrated that the spill had had no impact and would have no future impact on the groundwater. WA Limestone supplied the fill material from the Flynn Drive Quarry in Neerabup. WA Limestone has indicated in writing that they have operated the pit for 15 years and no contamination issues have occurred during this time. Fill material consisted of sand and limestone. k) During remediation, the quarterly sampling of the monitoring bores around Pinjar was completed on 16/12/2004 and has shown no contamination. Quarterly sampling has been conducted since remediation (mid March) but sampling results have not been received yet. l) The generators were disconnected from the fuel system on 31 March 2005 and currently are being removed from site. m) i) The sample point take-off has been blocked to prevent the valve from being left in an “OPEN” position again. Note: As a precaution additional measures have been implemented. ii) A self-draining system has been installed to each of the pre-filter drip trays, and linked back to the Pinjar Bunded Drainage System. iii) A hood has been placed over the pre-filter skid to ensure that fuel spillage is confined to within the drip trays. n) Yes, Western Power has a Pinjar’s Emergency Response Plan. o) Western Power, as part of its emergency response process undertook the clean up process of the distillate spill. The estimated total cost of clean up is approximately $100,000. p) No. q) The contract cannot be provided as it is a confidential document between WPC and GEER.
f) i) GE notified Western Power of the spill at approximately 3.30pm, and Western Power personnel took action immediately to contain the spill and begin clean up. ii) Results from soil samples taken on 20/12/2004 did not exceed EIL’s, and the samples indicated that all contaminated material had been removed from site by this date. g) The Department of Environment (DoE) was informed on 10 December 2004. h) Initial response from DoE was verbal. DoE officers contacted Peter South by telephone. They requested details of the spill and what was begin done to clean it up. They also requested a written report, that was sent the following Monday. i) The DoE agreed with Western Power’s action in its immediate excavation of contaminated soil, bitumen and limestone roadbase and its engagement of an independent Consultant (Parsons Brinkerhoff), to confirm that the excavation had been successful in removing all contaminants of environmental concern. The DoE (and Water Corporation) also required the Consultant to demonstrate that the spill had had no impact and would have no future impact on the groundwater. j) Western Power immediately excavated contaminated soil, bitumen and limestone roadbase and engaged an independent Consultant (Parsons Brinkerhoff), to confirm that the excavation had been successful in removing all contaminants of environmental concern. The Consultant also demonstrated that the spill had had no impact and would have no future impact on the groundwater. WA Limestone supplied the fill material from the Flynn Drive Quarry in Neerabup. WA Limestone has indicated in writing that they have operated the pit for 15 years and no contamination issues have occurred during this time. Fill material consisted of sand and limestone. k) During remediation, the quarterly sampling of the monitoring bores around Pinjar was completed on 16/12/2004 and has shown no contamination. Quarterly sampling has been conducted since remediation (mid March) but sampling results have not been received yet. l) The generators were disconnected from the fuel system on 31 March 2005 and currently are being removed from site. m) i) The sample point take-off has been blocked to prevent the valve from being left in an “OPEN” position again. Note: As a precaution additional measures have been implemented. ii) A self-draining system has been installed to each of the pre-filter drip trays, and linked back to the Pinjar Bunded Drainage System. iii) A hood has been placed over the pre-filter skid to ensure that fuel spillage is confined to within the drip trays. n) Yes, Western Power has a Pinjar’s Emergency Response Plan. o) Western Power, as part of its emergency response process undertook the clean up process of the distillate spill. The estimated total cost of clean up is approximately $100,000. p) No. q) The contract cannot be provided as it is a confidential document between WPC and GEER.
h) Initial response from DoE was verbal. DoE officers contacted Peter South by telephone. They requested details of the spill and what was begin done to clean it up. They also requested a written report, that was sent the following Monday. i) The DoE agreed with Western Power’s action in its immediate excavation of contaminated soil, bitumen and limestone roadbase and its engagement of an independent Consultant (Parsons Brinkerhoff), to confirm that the excavation had been successful in removing all contaminants of environmental concern. The DoE (and Water Corporation) also required the Consultant to demonstrate that the spill had had no impact and would have no future impact on the groundwater. j) Western Power immediately excavated contaminated soil, bitumen and limestone roadbase and engaged an independent Consultant (Parsons Brinkerhoff), to confirm that the excavation had been successful in removing all contaminants of environmental concern. The Consultant also demonstrated that the spill had had no impact and would have no future impact on the groundwater. WA Limestone supplied the fill material from the Flynn Drive Quarry in Neerabup. WA Limestone has indicated in writing that they have operated the pit for 15 years and no contamination issues have occurred during this time. Fill material consisted of sand and limestone. k) During remediation, the quarterly sampling of the monitoring bores around Pinjar was completed on 16/12/2004 and has shown no contamination. Quarterly sampling has been conducted since remediation (mid March) but sampling results have not been received yet. l) The generators were disconnected from the fuel system on 31 March 2005 and currently are being removed from site. m) i) The sample point take-off has been blocked to prevent the valve from being left in an “OPEN” position again. Note: As a precaution additional measures have been implemented. ii) A self-draining system has been installed to each of the pre-filter drip trays, and linked back to the Pinjar Bunded Drainage System. iii) A hood has been placed over the pre-filter skid to ensure that fuel spillage is confined to within the drip trays. n) Yes, Western Power has a Pinjar’s Emergency Response Plan. o) Western Power, as part of its emergency response process undertook the clean up process of the distillate spill. The estimated total cost of clean up is approximately $100,000. p) No. q) The contract cannot be provided as it is a confidential document between WPC and GEER.
i) The DoE agreed with Western Power’s action in its immediate excavation of contaminated soil, bitumen and limestone roadbase and its engagement of an independent Consultant (Parsons Brinkerhoff), to confirm that the excavation had been successful in removing all contaminants of environmental concern. The DoE (and Water Corporation) also required the Consultant to demonstrate that the spill had had no impact and would have no future impact on the groundwater. j) Western Power immediately excavated contaminated soil, bitumen and limestone roadbase and engaged an independent Consultant (Parsons Brinkerhoff), to confirm that the excavation had been successful in removing all contaminants of environmental concern. The Consultant also demonstrated that the spill had had no impact and would have no future impact on the groundwater. WA Limestone supplied the fill material from the Flynn Drive Quarry in Neerabup. WA Limestone has indicated in writing that they have operated the pit for 15 years and no contamination issues have occurred during this time. Fill material consisted of sand and limestone. k) During remediation, the quarterly sampling of the monitoring bores around Pinjar was completed on 16/12/2004 and has shown no contamination. Quarterly sampling has been conducted since remediation (mid March) but sampling results have not been received yet. l) The generators were disconnected from the fuel system on 31 March 2005 and currently are being removed from site. m) i) The sample point take-off has been blocked to prevent the valve from being left in an “OPEN” position again. Note: As a precaution additional measures have been implemented. ii) A self-draining system has been installed to each of the pre-filter drip trays, and linked back to the Pinjar Bunded Drainage System. iii) A hood has been placed over the pre-filter skid to ensure that fuel spillage is confined to within the drip trays. n) Yes, Western Power has a Pinjar’s Emergency Response Plan. o) Western Power, as part of its emergency response process undertook the clean up process of the distillate spill. The estimated total cost of clean up is approximately $100,000. p) No. q) The contract cannot be provided as it is a confidential document between WPC and GEER.
j) Western Power immediately excavated contaminated soil, bitumen and limestone roadbase and engaged an independent Consultant (Parsons Brinkerhoff), to confirm that the excavation had been successful in removing all contaminants of environmental concern. The Consultant also demonstrated that the spill had had no impact and would have no future impact on the groundwater. WA Limestone supplied the fill material from the Flynn Drive Quarry in Neerabup. WA Limestone has indicated in writing that they have operated the pit for 15 years and no contamination issues have occurred during this time. Fill material consisted of sand and limestone. k) During remediation, the quarterly sampling of the monitoring bores around Pinjar was completed on 16/12/2004 and has shown no contamination. Quarterly sampling has been conducted since remediation (mid March) but sampling results have not been received yet. l) The generators were disconnected from the fuel system on 31 March 2005 and currently are being removed from site. m) i) The sample point take-off has been blocked to prevent the valve from being left in an “OPEN” position again. Note: As a precaution additional measures have been implemented. ii) A self-draining system has been installed to each of the pre-filter drip trays, and linked back to the Pinjar Bunded Drainage System. iii) A hood has been placed over the pre-filter skid to ensure that fuel spillage is confined to within the drip trays. n) Yes, Western Power has a Pinjar’s Emergency Response Plan. o) Western Power, as part of its emergency response process undertook the clean up process of the distillate spill. The estimated total cost of clean up is approximately $100,000. p) No. q) The contract cannot be provided as it is a confidential document between WPC and GEER.
k) During remediation, the quarterly sampling of the monitoring bores around Pinjar was completed on 16/12/2004 and has shown no contamination. Quarterly sampling has been conducted since remediation (mid March) but sampling results have not been received yet. l) The generators were disconnected from the fuel system on 31 March 2005 and currently are being removed from site. m) i) The sample point take-off has been blocked to prevent the valve from being left in an “OPEN” position again. Note: As a precaution additional measures have been implemented. ii) A self-draining system has been installed to each of the pre-filter drip trays, and linked back to the Pinjar Bunded Drainage System. iii) A hood has been placed over the pre-filter skid to ensure that fuel spillage is confined to within the drip trays. n) Yes, Western Power has a Pinjar’s Emergency Response Plan. o) Western Power, as part of its emergency response process undertook the clean up process of the distillate spill. The estimated total cost of clean up is approximately $100,000. p) No. q) The contract cannot be provided as it is a confidential document between WPC and GEER.
l) The generators were disconnected from the fuel system on 31 March 2005 and currently are being removed from site. m) i) The sample point take-off has been blocked to prevent the valve from being left in an “OPEN” position again. Note: As a precaution additional measures have been implemented. ii) A self-draining system has been installed to each of the pre-filter drip trays, and linked back to the Pinjar Bunded Drainage System. iii) A hood has been placed over the pre-filter skid to ensure that fuel spillage is confined to within the drip trays. n) Yes, Western Power has a Pinjar’s Emergency Response Plan. o) Western Power, as part of its emergency response process undertook the clean up process of the distillate spill. The estimated total cost of clean up is approximately $100,000. p) No. q) The contract cannot be provided as it is a confidential document between WPC and GEER.
m) i) The sample point take-off has been blocked to prevent the valve from being left in an “OPEN” position again. Note: As a precaution additional measures have been implemented. ii) A self-draining system has been installed to each of the pre-filter drip trays, and linked back to the Pinjar Bunded Drainage System. iii) A hood has been placed over the pre-filter skid to ensure that fuel spillage is confined to within the drip trays. n) Yes, Western Power has a Pinjar’s Emergency Response Plan. o) Western Power, as part of its emergency response process undertook the clean up process of the distillate spill. The estimated total cost of clean up is approximately $100,000. p) No. q) The contract cannot be provided as it is a confidential document between WPC and GEER.
ii) A self-draining system has been installed to each of the pre-filter drip trays, and linked back to the Pinjar Bunded Drainage System. iii) A hood has been placed over the pre-filter skid to ensure that fuel spillage is confined to within the drip trays.
iii) A hood has been placed over the pre-filter skid to ensure that fuel spillage is confined to within the drip trays.
o) Western Power, as part of its emergency response process undertook the clean up process of the distillate spill. The estimated total cost of clean up is approximately $100,000. p) No. q) The contract cannot be provided as it is a confidential document between WPC and GEER.
p) No. q) The contract cannot be provided as it is a confidential document between WPC and GEER.
q) The contract cannot be provided as it is a confidential document between WPC and GEER.
Hon LYNN MacLAREN : I have been informed that I have been asked to place my question on notice. Would you like me to read it out, Mr President? The PRESIDENT : Not if the member is placing it on notice.
The PRESIDENT : Not if the member is placing it on notice.
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