BTC HYDROSTATIC TEST WATER

ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN:

Azerbaijan and Georgia

















January 2004


BTC HYDROSTATIC TEST WATER ENVIRONMENTAL
MANAGEMENT PLAN: Azerbaijan and Georgia



1.0 INTRODUCTION....................................................................................... 4
2.0 CONTRACTOR CONTROL PROVISIONS ............................................... 5
2.1 Inter Government Agreement, Host Government Agreement and National
Legislation ......................................................................................................... 5
2.2 Construction Contractor Requirements........................................................... 5
2.3 Construction Contractor Procedures............................................................... 6
3.0 TECHNICAL DESCRIPTION .................................................................... 7
3.1 Initial Cleaning................................................................................................... 7
3.2 Pipeline Gauging............................................................................................... 7
3.3 Pipeline Filling................................................................................................... 7
3.4 Hydrostatic Testing........................................................................................... 8
3.5 Dewatering and Final Cleaning......................................................................... 8
3.6 Geometric Survey.............................................................................................. 8
3.7 Pipeline Drying .................................................................................................. 8
4.0 HYDROSTATIC TEST WATER SOURCES AND ABSTRACTIONS........ 9
4.1 Pre-fill Water Quality Testing.......................................................................... 10
4.2 Erosion and Fish Screening Controls............................................................ 10
4.3 Hydrostatic Test Water Composition............................................................. 10
5.0 SELECTION AND ASSESSMENT OF CHEMICAL TREATMENT......... 10
5.1 Chemical Protection Against Corrosion........................................................ 10
5.2 Chemical Selection and Assessment............................................................. 11
5.3 Biocide Selection............................................................................................. 11
5.4 Oxygen Scavenger Selection.......................................................................... 13
BTC HYDROSTATIC TEST WATER ENVIRONMENTAL
MANAGEMENT PLAN: Azerbaijan and Georgia


6.0 DISCHARGE PROCESSES.................................................................... 14
6.1 Discharge Locations ....................................................................................... 14
6.2 Discharge options ........................................................................................... 14
6.3 Management of residual iron in the hydrotest water .................................... 15
7.0 IMPACT MITIGATION AND MANAGEMENT......................................... 16
1.0 INTRODUCTION
The purpose of hydrostatic testing is to prove integrity of the pipeline following line pipe
transportation and handling and construction of the pipeline.

A Pollution Prevention Contractor Control Plan (CCP) has been developed for each
country involved in the BTC Project. This Hydrostatic Testing Strategy document
addresses key aspects of pollution prevention, and as such is a supplementary
document to the CCPs. This document applies to Azerbaijan and Georgia. A separate
document has been prepared for Turkey

This document has been prepared to provide information on the strategy for mitigating
the potential environmental and social impacts associated with hydrostatic testing of the
pipeline that will be used across the three countries. Individual Construction Contractors
within each country will prepare more specific documentation including procedures and
detailed method statements to deal with site specific details. This document provides a
consistent framework and approach by which hydrostatic testing will be managed, such
that country specific details and construction contractor procedures will align with this
overarching strategy.

Hydrostatic testing can have associated environmental and social impacts if not properly
planned and managed. This Strategy document sets out the mitigation and management
controls to be implemented to prevent or minimise impacts from the following activities:

Abstraction of water
Chemical selection
Discharge of water
Drying
In-situ testing of AGIs
Groundwater/surface water contamination

The remainder of this document describes the hydrostatic testing strategy under the
following section headings:

Section 2: Contractor Control Provisions
Describes the legal framework and approval processes for hydrostatic testing and
environmental protection as they relate the BTC Pipeline Project.

Section 3: Technical Description
Provides a technical description of pipeline hydrostatic testing and pre-commissioning.

Section 4: Hydrostatic Test Water Abstraction and Discharge Sources
Describes the assessment process for potential water abstraction and discharge
sources.

Section 5: Selection and Assessment of Chemical Treatment
Provides detailed information about the potential need for chemical additives, chemical
selection and the chemical characteristic of biocides and oxygen scavengers. Provides
an explanation of the fate and effect of the biocide and oxygen scavenger.

BTC HYDROSTATIC TEST WATER ENVIRONMENTAL
MANAGEMENT PLAN: Azerbaijan and Georgia


Section 6: Discharge Processes
Provides information about how hydrotest water discharge will be managed.

Section 7: Summary of Impact Mitigation and Management
Provides a summary of the facts and a description of how the potential environmental
and social impacts of hydrostatic testing will be avoided, mitigated and managed.
2.0 CONTRACTOR CONTROL PROVISIONS
2.1 Inter Government Agreement, Host Government Agreement and National
Legislation
The Pollution Prevention Contractor Control Plans contain more detailed information
regarding relevant IGA, HGA, standards and legislative requirements e.g The IGA states
that international standards and practices within the petroleum pipeline industry, be in no
event less stringent than EU standards. The project is also bound to comply with lender
guidelines (as detailed in the Environmental and Social Action Plan (ESAP)).

Azerbaijan
The Host Government Agreement (HGA) requires that all project activities conform to
the environmental standards and practicesgenerally observed by the international
community with respect to petroleum pipelines comparable to the Project (Article 3,
HGA; see ESIA-Draft for Disclosure, Section 6.1.5, pp 6-8). The two principal pieces of
national legislation of relevance to pollution prevention in Azerbaijan are the Law on
Environmental Protection (8 June 1999) and the Law on Ecological Safety (4 August
1999). These laws are applicable to the extent they do not conflict with the IGA and the
HGA (ESIA-Draft for Disclosure, Section 6).

Georgia
The contractual terms set for the construction programme require that all project
activities shall conform with the environmental standards and practices set forth in this
Appendix 3 [the Georgia Host Government Agreement (HGA); refer Appendix B Annex
1, ESIA-Draft for Disclosure] as well as those generally observed by the international
community with respect to petroleum pipeline projects. In certain circumstances
Dutch environmental standards are prescribed in Georgia. The principal national
legislation that is relevant to hydrostatic testing includes Environmental Permits (1996)
and Water (1997).
2.2 Construction Contractor Requirements
The HSE requirements within the contracts awarded to the Construction Contractors
require all Contractors to fully comply with the following BP documents and standards:

Getting HSE Right which details the overarching HSE expectations for all BP
Projects
Getting Health Right which outlines the overarching health expectations for all
BP Projects
AGT HSE Requirements - Major Contracts. Document Number
410088/00/L/SA/SP/006
AGT Personnel and People Management - Major Contracts. Document No
410088/00/L/SA/SP/018
BTC HYDROSTATIC TEST WATER ENVIRONMENTAL
MANAGEMENT PLAN: Azerbaijan and Georgia



Of particular relevance to pollution prevention is Clause 16 HSE Performance Standards
which states that The CONTRACTOR shall aim to achieve the following HSE
Performance Standards throughout the CONTRACT period: no nuisance due to noise
or dustno pollution of land, air or water anduse of fuel and energy as efficiently as
current technology allows.
2.3 Construction Contractor Procedures
Prior to commencement of hydrostatic testing the Construction Contractor must submit
detailed procedures to BTC for approval, which require BTCs approval before work can
commence. The procedure(s) will address the following topics:

List of nominated personnel who are to supervise the pressure testing operation, and
their qualifications, tasks and responsibilities.
Detailed schedule giving proposed dates of the main activities and all tests.
Details of the pipeline pressure test sections including calculated volumes of water.
Plans and procedures for the supply, storage and disposal of water.
Details of the line-fill water, including source, water analysis, any treatment (pre- and
post-test) method.
Details of test equipment, including layouts, volumes and fill rates.
Details of the test section preparation, including cleaning, gauging and filling.
Details of the post-testing activities, including depressurising, discharge methods and
relevant documentation.
Details of monitoring/testing programme for source water and discharge water.
Environmental and social assessment of proposed abstraction and discharge points.
Justification and details of any chemical treatment package to be used, including
relevant environmental and safety information.
Details of mitigation methods to deal with potential environmental impacts associated
with the following hydrotest activities:

Abstraction of water
Chemical selection
Discharge of water
Drying
In-situ testing of AGIs
Groundwater/surface water contamination

Regulatory permits for abstraction and discharge of water (a copy must be provided
to BTC prior to work starting in that section).

These procedures will be supported by detailed site specific method statements.
Alternatively the Contractor may choose to consolidate the information into one detailed
procedure. Whatever the approach, the above information will be provided, including site
specific details, onsite supervision and monitoring for BTC approval before work can
commence.

The Construction Contractors are required to undertake all hydrostatic pressure testing
pre-commissioning operations in a manner that minimises impact to the environment.
BTC HYDROSTATIC TEST WATER ENVIRONMENTAL
MANAGEMENT PLAN: Azerbaijan and Georgia


The Construction Contractor must demonstrate that they have assessed the
environmental and social impacts of water abstraction at the proposed abstraction and
discharge sites prior to activities commencing.

Hydrostatic testing and pre-commissioning activities are 24 hour operations. The
operation of pumps and compressors are typically low noise activities, however
equipment will be sited to avoid close proximity to residences. Where this is unavoidable
local screening will be employed to ensure night-time noise levels at residences are
generally maintained below 45 dB(A).

BTC will oversee hydrotesting activities.
3.0 TECHNICAL DESCRIPTION
This section briefly describes the general methods to be used to perform hydrostatic
pressure testing and pre-commissioning of the BTC Crude Oil Export Pipeline and
includes the following activities:

Pipeline cleaning.
Pipeline gauging.
Pre-testing and/or post-testing of all major river crossings
Hydrostatic pressure testing on completed pipeline test sections.
Dewatering and final cleaning.
Geometric survey.
Pipeline drying.
3.1 Initial Cleaning
Prior to commencement of hydrostatic testing each pipeline section shall be cleaned of
construction debris using trains of pigs fitted with brushes and magnets. To reduce total
water requirements, the cleaning pigs will be propelled by air and separated by slugs of
fresh water. The Construction Contractor will submit for BTC approval, a cleaning
procedure stating the volumes of water to be used in front and between the pigs and the
proposed discharge method and location. Water used for cleaning and proposed
discharge locations will be selected to avoid areas in close proximity to residential areas
and locations of environmental sensitivity.
3.2 Pipeline Gauging
Prior to hydrostatic testing, either following cleaning activities or during line filling, the
pipeline test sections will be checked for any buckles, dents and similar irregularities
using a gauging plate attached to a pig. BTC will witness loading and removal of the
gauge plate. Following completion of the gauging run, the plate will be inspected for
damage and photographic record of the plate condition will be maintained. In the event
a received plate is damaged, the pipeline defect location will be identified and the
section repaired. When the cleaning and gauging activities have been completed
satisfactorily the pipeline section is ready for pressurising.
3.3 Pipeline Filling
The water quality at abstraction sources will be analysed prior to filling activities
commencing. The decision to use chemical treatment will depend on the water analysis
BTC HYDROSTATIC TEST WATER ENVIRONMENTAL
MANAGEMENT PLAN: Azerbaijan and Georgia


and the duration the water will remain in the pipeline. The need for chemical treatment
will be challenged, however should treatment be necessary the use of inhibitors and
chemicals will be subject to BTC approval. This is covered in detail in Section 5.

The fill water will be of a quality that protects the pipeline test section from ingress of
foreign matter, sedimentation, biological contamination and internal metal corrosion.
The water will be filtered and pass through vented break tanks before entering the test
section of the pipeline. Flow meter arrangements will be incorporated into the fill spread
for monitoring the water volume.

Where pipeline test sections are not located near potential water sources, the hydrotest
water will be transferred between test sections.
3.4 Hydrostatic Testing
Following completion of filling activities the pipeline test section will be left for 24 hours to
allow the temperature to stabilise. The pressure will be raised in a controlled manner
until the correct test pressure is reached. Upon reaching the required test pressure the
pressurising pump will be isolated and the pressure allowed to stabilise for a period of 2
hours. The test pressure will then be held for a minimum of 24 hours and a log of
pipeline temperature, ground temperature and ambient temperature will be maintained at
regular intervals throughout the hold period. The test will be considered successful if
there are no changes, which cannot be attributable to temperature variation.
3.5 Dewatering and Final Cleaning
Immediately following successful completion of the pressure test the pipeline section will
be dewatered using air propelled swabbing pigs. The displaced water may be
transferred to another section or discharged to an approved discharge location. The
procedure will detail the water analysis limits, monitoring requirements and ensure
energy stored in the displaced water is dissipated to prevent scour at the discharge
location. Water will be discharged in a manner not to cause damage, pollution or
flooding to the area.

Following completion of dewatering activities, the tested pipeline sections will be welded
together ready for final cleaning. This will be carried out using trains of cleaning pigs to
the satisfaction of BTC.
3.6 Geometric Survey
The geometric survey will be carried out following BTC acceptance of the cleaned
pipeline. This will confirm the pipeline is free from any dents, buckles, ovality or any
other forms of deformation prior to drying.

3.7 Pipeline Drying
Pipeline drying will be carried out by either desiccant drying or vacuum drying. The
Construction Contractor will select the actual method used. Once dry, the pipeline will
be packed (small positive pressure) with either dry air or inert gas.
BTC HYDROSTATIC TEST WATER ENVIRONMENTAL
MANAGEMENT PLAN: Azerbaijan and Georgia


4.0 HYDROSTATIC TEST WATER SOURCES AND ABSTRACTIONS
The primary impacts associated with water abstraction are the potential for ground water
abstraction and modification to river flows. Secondary issues include minimising erosion
at intake locations and prevention of fish entrainment into pump suction intakes . Social
impacts can also be a concern where water is in short supply and abstraction of water
could impact water supplies remaining for the community.

No ground water will be abstracted for hydrostatic test use. Water will be abstracted
from significant water sources such that ground water tables and river flows are not
affected. As a guideline, an abstraction rate of approximately 10% of water flow in a
river or channel would be adopted during water abstraction so as not to have a
significant impact on environmental systems. The figure of 10% will be reviewed on a
case by case basis. The maximum water abstraction rate from water pipelines will be
subject to assessment to confirm that other users of the supply will not be adversely
affected. Agreement will be required with the water authority and the environmental
regulator, and the relevant permits obtained.

Establish through measurement
the actual ambient flow rate at
proposed time and location of
abstraction
Can rate of abstraction be kept
below 10% of ambient flow?
Yes No
Proceed
Is there a downstream user
(community, irrigation,
natural wetland) between
point of abstraction and
next downstream tributary?
Monitor flow and
abstraction rates
No Yes
Proceed
Conduct an assessment,
with community
consultation, of effects,
seek alternatives etc


Figure 4.1. Guidelines for Surface Water Abstraction

BTC HYDROSTATIC TEST WATER ENVIRONMENTAL
MANAGEMENT PLAN: Azerbaijan and Georgia


4.1 Pre-fill Water Quality Testing
Prior to abstraction of hydro-test waters from a source, a water quality analysis will be
conducted to confirm its quality. Samples will be collected and analysed by an approved
independent laboratory. Field exit water analysis will be conducted at discharge
locations to determine iron (Fe) levels.

The key parameters and quality standards required for hydro test water are:

pH
Total Dissolved Solids
H
2
S
Suspended Solids
Appearance / Turbidity
6.5 to 10.5
Less than 30 Kg/m
3

Nil
0.005 Kg/m
3

Clear with no visible sediment
4.2 Erosion and Fish Screening Controls
During water abstraction the following practices will be undertaken to minimise erosion
at river intake locations

Suction pumps and hoses used to abstract water from waterways will be located so
as to avoid bed ersosion and minimise disturbance to vegetation.

The pump suction intake will be secured above the watercourse bed to prevent river
substrate entering into the pump head and will incorporate a fish screen.
4.3 Hydrostatic Test Water Composition
The test water will consist of either potable, or canal, or river water. Final chemical
dosage rates will be determined following a water analysis from the proposed sources
taken no earlier than 1 month before operations commence, as water quality is
dependent on seasonal variations. Any chemicals will be added to the water prior to
introduction into the pipeline. The hydrostatic test water may remain in the pipelines for
more than 30 days.

Before water is transferred from one hydrotest section to another, analysis will be
undertaken to determine whether additional applications of biocide and oxygen
scavenger are required to maintain the required concentrations.
5.0 SELECTION AND ASSESSMENT OF CHEMICAL TREATMENT
5.1 Chemical Protection Against Corrosion
The decision to use chemical treatment will depend on the water analysis and the
duration the water will remain in the pipeline. Chemical treatment will be avoided
wherever practicable, however should treatment be necessary the use of inhibitors and
chemicals will be subject to BTC approval.

Any water system that contains sulphate has the potential to support the growth of
sulphate-reducing bacteria. The problem is not so much the bacteria themselves but
rather the production of corrosive hydrogen sulphide and carbon dioxide gases caused
by their metabolic pathway.
BTC HYDROSTATIC TEST WATER ENVIRONMENTAL
MANAGEMENT PLAN: Azerbaijan and Georgia



Carbon + SO
4
= CO
2
+ H
2
S + Energy

Carbon dioxide and hydrogen sulphide are both known to be corrosive towards carbon
steel. It is also difficult to control corrosion in the presence of oxygen. At levels as low
as 5 ppb there can be significant corrosion observed. Water can contain up to 10 ppm
of oxygen under ambient temperature and pressure. The chemical effect of oxygen
against carbon steel is oxidation of the ferrous iron into ferric hydroxide, commonly
known as rust:

O
2
+ H
2
O + 4e- = 4 OH-

4 Fe (OH)
2
+ O
2
+ 2H
2
O = 4 Fe (OH)
3
(Rust)

In a closed system the above reaction is only concluded once all of the oxygen has been
removed. The introduction of oxygen scavengers to the system removes oxygen to
below 5 ppb thus it is not available for the above reaction. The exclusion of oxygen is
extremely important for the successful use of other corrosion control methods.
5.2 Chemical Selection and Assessment
Considerations in determining the best chemical to use in hydrostatic testing include:

Ability to protect the inner wall of the pipeline from oxidation and biological activity
during filling, testing and dewatering prior to drying.
Lowest level of toxicity to the environment and the health of workers.

BTC will only approve environmentally friendly chemicals that are biodegradable and
non-toxic.
5.3 Biocide Selection
BTC will accept proposals from the Construction Contractors for THPS
(Tetrakishydroxymethyl phosphonium sulphate) based products as this is the preferred
choice of biocide. This product is generally considered less hazardous to human health
compared to the gluteraldehyde based products and is more effective at combating
bacteria than the quaternary ammmonium salts. The THPS manufacturers Albright &
Wilson received the US EPA Green Chemistry award in 1997 for the development of
THPS as a biocide (this class of chemical had previously found industrial application as
a flame retardant).

All products which are used in the North Sea offshore oil industry have to be evaluated
under requirements of international legislation established by The Oslo Paris (OSPAR)
Convention to monitor their environmental impact. The OSPAR Convention is believed
to be the most stringent chemical control legislation in the world. Under the Convention,
organic based compounds are subject to the Chemical Hazard Assessment & Risk
Management model known as CHARM.

In accordance with UK legislation, products have been subject to assessment by
CHARM as part of the registration process at the Centre for Fisheries and Aquaculture
Science (CEFAS). CHARM assigns either a number or letter to a product depending on
BTC HYDROSTATIC TEST WATER ENVIRONMENTAL
MANAGEMENT PLAN: Azerbaijan and Georgia


which of the two methods of categorisation that has been used. The lower the number
the less the environmental impact. The numbers are arranged into ranges, which are
classified by colours with GOLD representing the least threat to the environment.

The CHARM model requires the biodegradation, bioaccumulation and toxicity of the
product to be calculated. Testing the effect of the product on three different species of
aquatic organism is carried out. This includes one of each of the following:

Algae
Crustaceans
Fish

The ACG Phase 1 and Shah Deniz Stage 1 projects have selected a THPS based
chemical called TROSKIL 88 for hydrotesting the offshore oil and gas pipelines.
TROSKIL 88 has a SILVER CHARM banding. A significant amount of work was
completed to assess and reconfirm the toxicity ranking given to the product in the North
Sea by using the Caspian Specific Ecotoxicity Procedure; a procedure adopted by the
Azerbaijan Ministry for Environment and Natural Resources for this purpose. Fresh and
aged mixtures of this THPS-based biocide were examined to gain a better
understanding of the effects of the biologically active components, after realistic
interactions and reactions had occurred. The evidence suggests that the biocide will
begin to hydrolyse and react within the pipeline, with the result that concentrations at the
time of discharge will be lower than the initial dose concentrations.

Based on the results of the Caspian Specific Ecotoxicity Tests and subsequent
modelling and ecotoxicological risk assessment of the proposed biocide, the Azerbaijan
Ministry for Environment granted Shah Deniz and ACG with approvals to use and
discharge hydrotest water containing THPS. The hydrotest water will be discharged from
the Shah Deniz platform directly into the Caspian Sea via a sub-surface caisson. ACG
Phase 1 will discharge their hydrotest water into the coastal zone beyond Sangachal
Bay after storing the water in a holding pond at Sangachal terminal. Within a short
period of time the biocide will rapidly breakdown in the holding pond to levels safe
enough for discharge into shallow nearshore waters.

THPS is one of the leading biocide chemicals in terms of biodegradation characteristics,
positive biomagnification properties and rapid transformation to a non-toxic form upon
controlled discharge. The United Nations Environment Programme, the International
Labour Organisation and the World Health Organization jointly published a detailed
report in 2000 (Environmental Health Criteria 218) on the fate and effects of THPS,
under the International Programme on Chemical Safety. This document reported the
comprehensive information on the biotic and abiotic degradation of THPS. This organic
substance is readily degradable, hydrolyses in 7 days at pH 9, is water soluble and not
bioaccumulative.

The biocide treatment would be applied pro rata to the hydrotest waters during the filling
of the pipeline to uniformly distribute the product in order to kill all macro-organisms and
microorganisms, to prevent biomass solids build up and bio-corrosion occurring.
However, on discharge to the atmosphere the THPS will naturally deactivate to a non-
toxic form Trihydroxymethyl phosphine oxide (THPO).
BTC HYDROSTATIC TEST WATER ENVIRONMENTAL
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In addition to prudent chemical selection, confining the discharged water to a small area
and monitoring the biodegradation process will further mitigate any residual risk to the
environment.

The recommendation for use of a biocide with a THPS based chemical, therefore builds
upon a significant amount of scientific work already completed by the ACG and Shah
Deniz projects and approved by the Azerbaijan Ministry for Environment and Natural
Resources. BTC recommends biocide chemical packages with a THPS base.
However, the Construction Contractor can propose to use alternate chemical
packages to THPS but must justify and present relevant information that the
environmental performance is as good as that achieved by THPS. Similarly if an
alternative toxicity assessment model is used as basis for selection, justification
must be provided.
5.4 Oxygen Scavenger Selection
OS
-2
is an ammonium bisulphite solution, which is commonly used in the international oil
and gas industry to scavenge (remove) oxygen from water. The product rapidly reacts
with the dissolved oxygen in the water to provide an oxygen free environment.

The equation of the reaction is as follows:

2(NH
4
) HSO
3
+ O
2
(NH
4
)2SO
4
+ H
2
SO
4


Products, which are not suitable for assessment by the CHARM model, are classified
using the Oilfield Chemical Notification Scheme (OCNS). Like CHARM, this scheme
uses ecotoxicity information in the assessment but the results are assigned a letter from
A to E, with A being the least environmentally friendly and E being the most
environmentally friendly. Ammonium bisulphite solution is categorised as D meaning it
will have little to no effect on the environment. Ammonium bisulphite is also on the
OSPAR List A, which defines substances that are considered of no risk to the
environment and for which testing and risk assessment are not required.

The ACG Phase 1 and Shah Deniz Stage 1 projects have already received approvals to
discharge their hydrotest waters, as described above, from the Azerbaijan Ministry for
Environment and Natural Resources, based on the use of an Ammonium bisulphite
oxygen scavenger.

Ammonium bisulphite is water-soluble. The ammonium is weakly bioaccumulated, but
only at high concentrations. The substance does not biomagnify and exhibits very low
toxicity. The oxygen scavenger treatment should be applied pro rata to the Hydrotest
waters during the filling of the pipeline to uniformly distribute the product and to totally
and instantaneously deoxygenate the Hydrotest waters to prevent corrosion occurring
due to the presence of dissolved oxygen. The excess oxygen scavenger treatment
ensures that the deoxygenating process is completed instantaneously i.e. reaction of
ammonium bisulphite solution with dissolved oxygen will be immediate. The reaction
product of ammonium bisulphite and oxygen is ammonium sulphate, ions that are
commonly present in surface waters. Any excess or unreacted oxygen scavenger will
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immediately react with atmospheric oxygen upon contact when discharged to the
atmosphere.

In an open pond environment the oxygen concentration in the water will rapidly re-
equilibrate thus resulting in the deactivation of the oxygen scavenger. The use of spray
bars will assist with re-oxygenating the discharging water and the large surface area to
volume ratio ponds will further assist this process.

Consequently, BTC recommends hydrotest chemical packages from the
Construction Contractors that utilise ammonium bisulphite as the oxygen
scavenger agent. However, the Construction Contractor can propose to use
alternate chemical packages to ammonium bisulphite but must justify and present
relevant information that the environmental performance is as good as that
achieved by ammonium bisulphite.
6.0 DISCHARGE PROCESSES
6.1 Discharge Locations
The project requirements for temporary and permanent land acquisition are published in
the BTC Resettlement Action Plan (RAP), November 2002. Where additional land for
carrying out hydrotest activities is required, the Construction Contractors will complete
temporary land acquisition, for hydrotest water discharge, in line with the RAP. However,
the additional landtake is expected to be minimal as the activities will be constrained to
the ROW wherever possible.

Upon completion of the hydrotest activity, the area used will be reinstated to a quality
that renders the land fit for pre-project land use opportunities, and returned to the owner
or user.

The discharge locations proposed by the Contractor will require environmental and
social assessment, and approval by BTC. In identifying these areas, consideration will
be given to the environmental sensitivity and suitability of the proposed area with
particular attention to avoidance of areas with a high water table, vulnerable aquifers and
aquatically and ecologically important wetlands and avoidance of high-grade agricultural
land (crops or intensive pasture). Test manifolds will be located outside of wetlands and
riparian areas as far as reasonably practical.
6.2 Discharge options
There are a number of options for disposal of hydrotest water. These include disposal to
temporary breaktanks and / or holding ponds. The purpose of the break tanks is to
dissipate energy. They will also assist in the reduction of suspended solids while holding
ponds allow time for biocide degradation. The holding pond will be constructed to
enable evaporation, infiltration through a soakaway or to allow water re-use dependent
on site-specific circumstances. Exit water analyses will be conducted prior to any
discharge to the environment.

If the use of soakaways is chosen as the preferred disposal route, a risk based approach
will be used in line with accepted guidelines such as the UK Environmental Protection
BTC HYDROSTATIC TEST WATER ENVIRONMENTAL
MANAGEMENT PLAN: Azerbaijan and Georgia


Agencys (EPA) Methodologies for the Derivation of Remedial Targets for Soil and
Groundwater to Protect Water Resources.

Hydrotest water disposal may also occur direct to water courses. In the case where very
large volumes of water are expected, it will not be possible to utilise holding ponds or
breaktanks. The objective will be to return the water into the same catchment from which
it was abstracted in order to minimise any upsets to the water balance. In the case of
water disposal direct to watercourses, a further objective will be to minimise the use of
any chemical additives, such that the water discharge chemistry is as close as
practicable to that abstracted.

The Construction Contractor will be required to prepare procedures covering their
proposed hydrotest water disposal methods and locations, as well as undertaking
environmental and social assessments. These procedures will require approval by BTC
prior to work commencing. Any hydrotest discharge will meet Project Standards. If
discharge is to an aquifer that is used as a potable water source, then the discharge will
meet the least onerous of WHO potable water standards or the baseline condition of the
aquifer at the receptor location.

The Construction Contractors Community Liaison Officers will notify any affected
individuals or community members that would potentially be affected by hydrostatic test
activities and ensure that they are adequately informed about the importance of the
process and the controls that would be put in place to protect human health and the
environment. These will include measures such as the fencing to prevent children
gaining access to any holding ponds. Where possible holding ponds and break tanks
will be located remotely from households or communities.
6.3 Management of residual iron in the hydrotest water
It may be necessary to use chemicals for the control of corrosion in the water filled
pipeline. Consequently the correct dosage / application of the chemicals and subsequent
re-treatment of transferred water can be critical to the management of the hydrotest
water. Water analysis will be conducted at abstraction locations as close as practically
possible to the date of commencement of water fill to enable identification of correct
dosage levels. An exit water analysis will be conducted before transfer or discharge of
the test water to determine iron levels and chemical re-treatment dosage.

The residual chemical levels will be measured to determine whether minimum
concentrations exist to provide continued protection in the next test section. The
concentration will be increased if necessary by retreatment. This is to ensure that the
necessary protection is given by applying the minimum amount of chemicals.

Despite chemical treatment in the pipeline, there will still be some suspended iron
contained with the hydrotest waters, which will be discharged during the dewatering
process. Iron is a natural background element in the environment and is not toxic to
plants in aerated soils unless in abnormally high concentrations. Similarly, iron is not
toxic to humans or livestock at low exposure levels although can be perceived as an
aesthetic impact introducing an unpleasant taste, odour and colour into drinking water.

BTC HYDROSTATIC TEST WATER ENVIRONMENTAL
MANAGEMENT PLAN: Azerbaijan and Georgia


Although iron is only problematic at high concentrations, any potential impact of iron on
the receptor environment will be assessed and mitigated by careful selection of
hydrotest discharge methods and locations.
7.0 IMPACT MITIGATION AND MANAGEMENT
This table summarises the environmental aspects of hydrostatic testing and describes
the mitigation measures to be implemented to minimise residual environmental impacts.

Activity Environmental
aspect/issue
Measures to minimize potential
environmental impacts
Abstraction of
water
Ecological




Community Water
use



Ground water
abstraction

Modified river flow




Water quality




Erosion, Flora
and fauna






An assessment will be undertaken at all proposed
abstraction sites to determine whether any
ecological impacts are likely to occur based upon
the sensitivity of the site

An assessment will be undertaken at all proposed
abstraction sites to determine any negative
community impact likely to be caused by
abstraction

No ground water will be abstracted for hydrostatic
test use.


Water will be abstracted in a controlled manner
from significant water sources such that ground
water tables and river flows are not affected.


Prior to abstraction of hydro-test waters from a
source, a water quality analysis will be conducted
to confirm its quality.


River intake locations will have:

Suction pumps and hoses used to abstract
water from waterways will be located so as to
avoid significant vegetation and minimise
disturbance to other vegetation.
The pump suction intake will be secured above
the watercourse bed to prevent river substrate
entering into the pump head and will
incorporate a fish screen.

Chemical
selection
Residual toxicity
on discharge
Fate
Chemical additives will be justified before use, and
where they are approved as necessary, they will be
selected to minimise environmental impact.
BTC HYDROSTATIC TEST WATER ENVIRONMENTAL
MANAGEMENT PLAN: Azerbaijan and Georgia


Activity Environmental
aspect/issue
Measures to minimize potential
environmental impacts

Discharge of
water
Disposal of
wastewater











Soil erosion




Hydrotest water may be disposed by a number of
methods including to dewatering
basins/soakaways, evaporation ponds or direct to
water courses. In all cases, an environmental and
social assessment will need to be undertaken
including mitigation measures to minimise impacts
and appropriate EU standards are met.

The use of spray bars within the confines of the
settlement basin will assist in the re-oxygenation of
the water resulting in deactivation of the chemical
treatment package and may be utilised in certain
circumstances. Soils with high clay content should
be compacted. More permeable soils should be
avoided or have a clay layer added to minimise the
rate of percolation.

Where required, erosion control measures may
include a combination of hay bales, riprap, silt
fencing or other approved method.

Alternate methods of disposal differing from those
above will need to be justified, assessed, and
require approval by BTC.

Drying Noise emissions Noise monitoring per Project Noise Monitoring
Procedure will be undertaken. Equipment to be
sited away from residences. Noise levels at
residences shall be no greater than: 70dB(A) LAeq
(8 hours) during the day, 60dB(A) LAeq (1 hour)
during the evening, and generally maintained below
45 dB(A) at night.
In-situ testing
of AGI-s
Combustion
gases





Stationary combustion plant shall achieve the
following standards:
Particulates: 50 mg/Nm
3
NOx 150 mg/Nm
3
SOx 0.2% w/w S in fuel
CO 150 mg/Nm
3

VOCs and hydrocarbons 100mg/Nm
3


Groundwater/
Surface water
contamination
Possible
contamination of
ground water by
hydro test
chemicals or by
imported test
Where biocide and oxygen scavenger is used, it
will of a type that willneutralise, readily biodegrade,
and not bio-accumulate in the soil.

Test water will be sourced from a potable water
pipeline, river or canal and will not contaminate the
BTC HYDROSTATIC TEST WATER ENVIRONMENTAL
MANAGEMENT PLAN: Azerbaijan and Georgia


Activity Environmental
aspect/issue
Measures to minimize potential
environmental impacts
water of different
quality to local
ambient
groundwater.


groundwater at discharge locations.


The Contractor is required to submit procedures for hydrostatic testing to BTC for
approval prior to commencing any hydrotest works. Prior to implementing the hydrostatic
test programme, the Contractor shall complete an environmental assessment for each
water disposal location. These contractual requirements will enable BTC to ensure that
environmental and social aspects of hydrotest operations are appropriately managed
and controlled.