2008-02-22_APPLICATION CORRESPONDENCE - C2008086 (39)

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CHAPTERFOUR Environmental Consequences and Mitigation Transmission Line Contact with high voltage electricity can be potentially lethal. A 69,000-volt (69 kV) transmission line would be required to supply the required power. Construction and operation of this transmission line will adhere to all approved codes of practices and procedures. Qualified electricians and secured access and isolation procedures will reduce risks associated with high voltage. Temporary Impacts Impacts associated with construction may include but are not limited to: • Dust from roads and earthwork Hazards are associated predominantly with inhalation or other contact. • Traffic incidents on site: Hazards are associated with personal vehicles and construction equipment. • Construction equipment hazards: Personnel may be at risk of interacting with construction machinery, parts from vehicles, and earth moving equipment resulting in the potential for serious injury. • Fuel, oil or chemical leaks from equipment and vehicles: These leaks can pose health and safety risks. • Noise: Prolonged exposure to excessive noise can cause permanent hearing losses. • Cold and heat stress: Temperature extremes can affect worker health and safety. • Slips, trips, and falls: Injuries associated with slips, trips, and falls may occur. • Confined space entry and excavation and trench hazards: Hazards associated with confined space entry and excavation and trench hazards include limited or restricted means for entry or exit and cave-ins. Permanent Impacts Impacts associated with operation may include but are not limited to: • Rock and roof falls: Nearly 40 percent of the 98 coal mine fatalities between 1996 and 1998 were caused by falls of ground. Underground miners are at much greater risk than surface miners. Nearly half (45 out of 101) of underground mine fatalities were attributed to roof, rib, and face falls. • Coal Dust: Inhalation of coal dust is health hazard. Black lung disease (also known as pneumoconiosis) is caused by inhaling coal dust. Although the 1969 Coal Mine Health and Safety Act sought to eliminate black lung disease, the American Lung Association estimate that 400 former coal miners die of black lung each year (ALA 2008). Underground air quality: The air in an underground mine can easily become contaminated. Oxides of nitrogen (NOX), carbon monoxide (CO), and carbon dioxide (CO2) are introduced by blasting and internal combustion engines. Dust is created by virtually every aspect of the mining process. Diesel particulate matter (DPM) is present where diesel engines are operated. Without controls, every miner is subjected to health hazards ranging from eye and throat irritation to death. 4-55 DBMS 610