Responsible Management
To ensure a safe and responsibly managed project, Graymont has put in place several specific measures to:
Landscaping/Construction Work
The Heritage Project’s Development Plan has been rigorously designed to minimize the impacts of the development phase. Below are a few examples of how this will be accomplished:
Reducing Visual Impacts
Tree cutting will be strictly limited to the required areas as established in the Development Plan; protective mounds (acoustic walls) are planned for installation near Corriveau and Rocheleau streets from the outset of construction; continuous revegetation of the site as work progresses.
Reducing Noise Levels
An acoustic wall is to be put in place from the outset of the landscaping/construction phase; work shifts will be restricted to weekdays between 7 am and 6 pm; silencers were installed on certain equipment; three noise-measurement stations have been set up to enable continuous noise readings by a sound technician to ensure regulatory compliance.
Minimizing Dust Emissions
Mobile equipment speed has been reduced to limit dust emissions; sprinklers have been installed along main hauling roads; dust suppressants are being used in the construction areas; and progressive revegetation of the work areas will also help reduce the amount of dust.
Reducing the Impacts of Trucking
Truck traffic will be largely limited to a private road inside the Heritage Project work area; the unloading of material will be done within the protective mounds, which will reduce both the visual and noise impacts of construction activities.
The Environment
Respecting the environment and rehabilitating natural habitats are integral parts of Graymont’s commitments for the Heritage Project. Here are a few examples of the mitigation measures being taken by the company.
Protecting the Hydrogeological System
Drainage collectors and sedimentation tanks have been installed to capture run-off water, in addition to other mechanisms (barriers and traps) designed to collect sediment; a continuous monitoring and water-sampling program is also in effect to ensure the integrity of the local water supply.
Soil Rehabilitation after Construction
The site will be continuously revegetated as the work progresses; the plants being utilized are chosen in accordance with the Development Plan, which aims to protect and stabilize the soil in addition to harmonizing well with the local landscape.
Compensating for the Loss of Natural Environments
To compensate for the loss of natural environments, habitats in the municipality of Saint-Armand that offer ecological value equal or superior to affected wetlands have been identified and created with the help of the Nature Conservancy Canada. It was through collaboration with this leading, non-profit land conservation organization that a win-win solution was found.
Health and safety
The health and safety of our employees and neighbours is a constant concern at Graymont and is essential to the success of the Heritage Project. Below are a few examples of the measures in place.
Workers
All workers must register at the work site entrance; small vehicles are equipped with warning beacons; pedestrians must wear high-visibility clothing and maintain visual contact with heavy machinery operators before approaching them.
The Neighbourhood
Signs prohibiting entrance to the work areas are posted around the site. Visits can be organized upon demand, but visitors must receive prior authorization and attend a Graymont health and safety presentation.
Safe Access to the Site
The Heritage Project site is accessed through the plant; all visitors must register at the reception desk.