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MEPA to monitor vibration levels from quarry blasting
Public consultation terms of reference and a guidance document are to be issued by the Malta Environment and Planning Authority (MEPA) to quarry owners to monitor vibrations from blasting operations for the extraction of hardstone.
The purpose of these guidelines is to improve environmental performance with details of what is required to minimise vibrations from blasting operations. The document is to outline the maximum level of acceptable vibrations.
The guidelines will also clarify responsibilities of the operators, stipulate threshold levels for vibration monitoring and determine other specifications related to location, design and sensitivity of the monitoring equipment. Guidance will also be provided on the appropriate documentation required that must be submitted to MEPA prior to commencement and upon completion of blasting operations.
The TORs and related guidance document are available on MEPA website at www.mepa.org.mt/public-consultation. The Authority is encouraging quarry operators, the public, NGOs and all other interested parties to provide feedback and comments on the proposed guidelines, prior to approval as official documents.
Comments can be submitted throughout this consultation period at [email protected] or by mail to: MEPA, P.O. Box 200, Marsa, MRS 1000 until 31 July 2011.
