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Executive Summary

Initial Environmental Examination

Marine Seismic Studies AD-5

Myanmar

INITIAL ENVIRONMENTAL EXAMINATION (IEE)

OFFSHORE SEISMIC STUDIES FOR AD-5, RAKHINE BASIN, MYANMAR

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INTRODUCTION

Woodside (Myanmar) Pte Ltd (Woodside) intends to acquire a two dimensional (2D) marine seismic survey

and a three dimensional (3D) marine seismic survey, as well as gravity and magnetic data and seabed

samples (the Project), in Block AD-5 (AD-5), which is located offshore Myanmar in the Rakhine Basin in

the Bay of Bengal (Figure 0-1). Woodside is the Operator of the block with equity interests of 55% together

with BG Exploration & Production (Myanmar) Pte Ltd (BGEPM) with non-operating interests of 45%.

The proposed Project activities are planned to be undertaken between November 2015 and April 2016, due

to favourable weather and sea conditions for offshore surveys during the North-east Monsoon.

In accordance with the draft Environmental Impact Assessment Procedure (EIAP) of the Republic of the

Union of Myanmar, this Initial Environmental Examination (IEE) is a report comprising a systematic

assessment of the proposed activities. Woodside prepared this IEE for these activities for submission to

the Myanmar Oil and Gas Enterprise (MOGE) and the Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Forestry

(MOECAF). Woodside undertook a screening assessment whereby a Project Proposal was submitted to

MOECAF in February 2015, and MOECAF then confirmed that the level of assessment for the proposed

survey activities would be set at an IEE level. Subsequently, a series of stakeholder engagements were

conducted at various levels.

The purpose of the proposed surveys is to commence investigation the possible presence of hydrocarbons

within AD-5. An initial geophysical investigation (Stage 1) is proposed to include 2D and 3D marine seismic

acquisition, gravity and magnetic data acquisition, and seabed coring. Additional seismic surveying (Stage

2) may be undertaken if the results of Stage 1 deliver a business case to pursue additional seismic data

acquisition. The activities would most likely include additional 3D marine seismic acquisition. The scope

and timing of these activities relies on the evaluation of the Stage 1 results. The scope of this IEE report

includes both the Stage 1 and Stage 2 activities. Possible future activities exploration drilling and

development activities are not included in this IEE. Should the Stage 2 activities introduce any new

significant environmental impact risk or significant increase in an existing environmental impact/risk not

provided for in this document, Woodside will update and resubmit the document for re-assessment.



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Figure 0-1: Location of AD-5, Offshore Myanmar



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PROJECT DESCRIPTION

The Project will be undertaken within AD-5, which is located immediately off the coast of the Ayeyarwady

Region, to the west of the townships of Labutta and Ngapudaw in the Village-tract of SinMa to the south of

Pathein Township.

Seismic acquisition and associated activities within AD-5 will take place from approximately 247kilometres

(km) to approximately 94km off the west coast of the Ayeyarwady Region and about 100km to the west-

north-west of Thameehla Kyun (Diamond Island). The surveys will comprise an acquisition area of

approximately 10,645 square kilometres (km2), in water depths ranging from approximately 2,300m to

2,800m.

The Project will comprise 2D marine seismic and 3D marine seismic data acquisition as well as gravity and

magnetic data acquisition and seabed coring, and is expected to be conducted as multiple activities across

both AD-5 and A-7 which is immediately to the east (Figure 0-1). Survey activities in A-7 are subject to a

separate IEE process and are not included in this IEE.

Due to the length of the towed streamers, the seismic vessels will require an additional turnaround zone

approximately 8km wide outside of the blocks as shown in Figure 0-2, which depicts the extent of the

Project operational area. The turning area allows for survey line run-outs, survey line turns and survey line

run-ins and minimises the likelihood of streamer entanglement; however, no acquisition of data will be

conducted in this zone.

Project Schedule

The 2D and 3D marine seismic survey (MSS) activities are expected to commence between mid-November and early December 2015, with approximately 35 days and 180 days of acquisition across A-7 and AD-5, respectively.

The 3D MSS in AD-5 and A-7 will be followed by 2-D in A-7.

Gravity and magnetic data will be acquired concurrently with seismic acquisition, utilising the same survey vessels. The seabed sampling is likely to commence in March 2016 after the majority of the 3D MSS has been completed.



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Figure 0-2: The Project Operational Area including Buffer Zone

Marine Seismic Surveys

Marine seismic surveys enable the mapping of subsurface geological formations and the identification of

potential hydrocarbon deposits. The seismic surveys involve directing acoustic (sound) energy into the

geology (rocks) under the seabed and measuring their reflection using specialised equipment towed by a

purpose-built survey vessel as shown in Figure 0-3. The survey vessel tows long cables called ‘streamers’

behind it at a set depth below the water surface. Sound receiving devices called ‘hydrophones’ are attached

to the streamers at specific intervals to measure the reflected sound. The sound source and streamers are

usually towed at a depth of 5 – 20m below the water surface, and are towed at a speed of approximately 5

knots (8 – 9km/h), thus the vessel is constantly moving.

The sound source generates intermittent acoustic pulses that are directed downwards to the seabed. These

sound waves are reflected back upwards from the various layers of sediment and rock below the seabed,

and are received by the hydrophones contained in the streamers being towed behind the survey vessel.

Hydrophones convert the reflected pressure signals into electrical energy that is digitised and transmitted

along the streamer to the recording system on board the survey vessel. A computerised analysis of these

reflected sound waves generates images of the geology below the seabed, which enables an accurate

identification of the location, extent and depth of possible hydrocarbon reserves below the seabed.



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Figure 0-3: Diagrammatic Overview of Seismic Survey Operations

Source: Base image sourced from www.seismicsurvey.com.au and reproduced courtesy of IPIECA

Proposed 2D and 3D MSS

The proposed 2D and 3D MSS are transient activities that do not require the construction of any facilities,

structures or permanent features.

The 2D MSS will use one streamer, approximately 10,000 to 12,000m in length, towed at 10m below the

sea surface behind the seismic vessel (see Plate 0-1). The seismic source array will be located

approximately 7m below the surface with single array configuration and a typical volume of 4,000 cubic

inches (cui). Typical source outputs (sound pressure levels – SPL) during the 2D MSS will be 245 – 260

dB re 1 μPa@ 1m (when measured relative to a reference pressure of one micropascal). In the 3D MSS,

10 to 12 streamers are towed behind the seismic vessel, together with dual acoustic sources. The

streamers, each approximately 7,000m long, will be towed at 10m below the sea surface and 100m apart

at their widest point at the end of the streamers. The 3D MSS is expected to use a dual acoustic array

configuration with a typical volume of 4,000cui. A 3D survey gives a detailed 3D image of the subsurface

geology.

To complete each survey, the vessel with its towed streamer (2D) or streamers (3D) will complete a series

of parallel survey lines. The survey lines are typically 4km apart in the case of the 2D MSS and typically

500m apart for the 3D MSS.

Acoustic pulses are generated by the sound source

Acoustic pulses reflect off the various rock layers below the seabed

Reflected sound waves are received by hydrophones contained in the streamers



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Plate 0-1: 3D Survey Vessel and Towed Array

Figure 0-4: Generic 3D MSS Equipment Configuration



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Gravity and Magnetic Data Acquisition

Gravity and magnetic data is utilised in the oil and gas industry to assess the depth and nature of the

seabed sediments. Acquisition equipment measures changes in density and magnetic intensity, and this

allows maps to be created showing the lateral distribution of the various sediments. Gravity and magnetic

data acquisition is proposed to be conducted as part of the 2D and 3D MSS in AD-5, with equipment and

personnel working in conjunction with seismic operations to acquire the data simultaneously.

Seabed Sampling

In addition to the proposed seismic acquisition, Woodside will also undertake seabed sampling to

characterise the seabed sediments. A separate vessel fitted with sampling equipment will be utilised to

undertake the seabed sampling via non-drilling techniques. These cores will be analysed to provide

additional information on the seabed. The seabed sampling survey will utilise a single dedicated survey

vessel. Once retrieved, the cores will be removed from the core barrel and a preliminary analysis will take

place on board the vessel, the cores will then be retained for more detailed laboratory analysis. The seabed

sampling will take place at locations to be determined after the 3D seismic data has been analysed. All

samples will be retained on the vessel and not discharged back to the ocean.

Plate 0-2: Core Sampler equipment

being deployed from the

vessel

Plate 0-3: Sample of the seabed sediments after

recovery of the core sampler equipment

to the vessel

Project Vessels

For the AD-5 2D and 3D MSS, the expected survey fleet will comprise of approximately six (6) to eight (8)

vessels in total, including:



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Seismic vessel: a purpose-built vessel with accommodation for the survey crew and operating

equipment. The vessel will tow the streamers and seismic source. The same vessel or separate seismic

vessels will be utilised for the 2D and 3D MSS.

Support vessel: the support vessel provides assistance to the seismic vessel during each of the survey

activities. This includes maintaining a safe work area around the towed equipment (the safety zone),

providing supplies when required for the seismic vessel, at sea refuelling, and assisting in emergency

situations.

Chase vessels: one or more chase boats will be used to clear acquisition lines of any debris, liaise

with fishermen and ward off other vessels entering the safety zone around the survey vessel to maintain

safe operating distances.

A dedicated vessel is likely to be utilised for the seabed sampling. The vessels will operate 24 hours per

day, 7 days a week throughout the survey periods.

Project Logistics

The seismic survey vessel is expected to remain offshore for the entire survey. Bunkering and resupply of

the vessel will be conducted at sea by a support vessel. The survey contractor will utilise an existing onshore

supply base, A specific port is yet to be determined; however, it is likely to be located outside of Myanmar.

Crew changes for the seismic vessels utilised for the 2D and 3D MSS will be conducted offshore within the

operational area or in the waters surrounding AD-5 and A-7, using the support vessels. In some instances,

helicopters may be used to transfer personnel and equipment to and from the seismic vessels. Any

helicopter flights during the 2D and 3D MSS will be operated from an airport in Myanmar, which has not

been identified at this stage.

Vessel Discharges and Waste Management

Wastewater generated by the seismic and support/ chase vessels includes domestic and sanitary

wastewater, deck and bilge water that will be treated and monitored aboard before discharge into the

surrounding environment. These wastewater releases will strictly comply with MARPOL 73/78 Annex I

requirements.

A variety of non-hazardous solid wastes will be generated during the seismic survey such as glass, paper,

plastic and wood. No solid wastes will be disposed of intentionally into the marine environment. All solid

wastes will be collected and shipped to a shore. Vessels shall be operated in compliance with MARPOL

regulations whereby the discharge of comminuted and disinfected sewage and food waste ground to

particle size <25 millimetres (mm) is permitted >3 nautical miles (nm) from the nearest land. Hazardous

wastes such as lubricants, filters, chemical containers and used equipment, will be stored and consolidated

for disposal onshore.



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BASELINE ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS

Physical Environment

Weather and oceanographic conditions in the Bay of Bengal are dominated by the North-east Monsoon in

the months from November through to April, and the South-west Monsoon from April through to September,

the former being the period of calmest seas. The Block AD-5 operational area is located within the Rakhine

Basin, on the eastern fringe of the Bay of Bengal and offshore from the western coast of Ayeyarwady

Province, Myanmar. Adjacent offshore features to the basin include the Bay of Bengal and the associated

Bengal Fan deposits to the west, the Ayeyarwady Delta and associated Moattama Offshore Basin to the

south and the Andaman-Nicobar Trench and associated island arc to the south. The Rakhine Basin is

approximately 850km in length and 200km in width. Water depths range from approximately 2,300m to

2,800m.

Biological Environment

The operational area for AD-5 is located at approximately 100km west-north-west of Diamond Island and

about 95km from the nearest mainland of Myanmar. It is within a deep water zone where there are no coral

reefs, mangroves, seagrass, estuarine or shoreline transition-zone habitats within the area of influence

(AOl). This zone is relatively unproductive as compared with the coastal area due to lack of nutrients. The

major habitat types include a low-productivity pelagic zone and deep water benthic ecosystems. It is

believed that major taxa found in the pelagic zone are expected to be mobile or transient like oceanic shark,

tuna and whale while the demersal communities are dominated by crab, prawn, shrimp, rays, skates and

flatfish.

There are 20 species of ocean seabirds currently identified as occurring in Myanmar waters. An additional

61 species of birds live in the coastal zone, although there is limited data on their use of the marine

environment. The Project is not expected to have any impact on marine or coastal birdlife.

There are two broad groups of marine mammals present in Myanmar waters—cetaceans (whales and

dolphins) and sirenians (dugongs and manatees). It is highly unlikely that any dugongs will be present in

the operational area, given that their preferred habitat is seagrass meadows in shallow waters and the

survey activities will take place in waters greater than 50m deep. There is limited detailed research into the

presence and activities of cetaceans in the eastern Bay of Bengal, and data has been compiled based on

information that is available from primary literature and historical records. There is evidence of the possible

presence of approximately 32 species of cetaceans in Myanmar waters. These species are comprised of

seven (7) baleen whales, five (5) beaked whales, three (3) large delphinds, 14 smaller delphinds and three

(3) species of sperm whale. Cetacean range data is considered to be approximate due to limited information

sources.

Socio-economic Environment

Fisheries

Myanmar's marine fishing industry consists of three distinct fishing zones namely, onshore, inshore and

offshore. The inshore area starts from the Low Water Mark to 10NM from shore in the Ayeyarwady Region.

For offshore fisheries management, the Department of Fisheries has divided the Myanmar coastline into

140 fishing grounds of 30 by 30 nautical mile blocks by using latitude and longitude lines and has designated



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four fishing areas—Rakhine, Ayeyarwady, Mon and Tanintharyi. The AD-5 MSS will not interact with any

coastal zone artisanal fishing activities.

The operational area is located in the offshore fishery zone and encompasses fishing block B17 and part

of blocks B11, B12, B13, B16 and B18. The operational area also includes known offshore tuna fishing

grounds, with the western part of AD-5 overlapping one of these areas. Given that the survey vessels will

operate in water depths deeper than 2,000, it is possible that fishing vessels targeting large pelagic fish

species such as tuna and swordfish may be encountered.

Marine Traffic

Marine traffic off the coast of the Ayeyarwady Region is limited to regional traffic, mostly inshore, away from

AD-5. A moderately busy shipping lane connects Chittagong port in Bangladesh to the Malacca Straits in

Malaysia. AD-5 is coincident with this shipping lane in the east of the block and encounters with vessels

during the proposed 2D and 3D MSS and associated activities in the operational area can be expected.

The AD-5 area may also be utilised by coastal trading vessels travelling from Yangon and Kyaukpyhu.

POTENTIAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION

Methodology

The environmental and social risk management methodology used in this IEE is based on Woodside’s Risk

Management Operating Standard. These standards are consistent with the AS/ISO 31000-2009 Risk

Management Principles. The risk management methodology provides a framework to demonstrate that the

identified risks and impacts are reduced to as low as reasonably practicable (ALARP), and the acceptability

of risks and impacts.

Identification of Impacts

Based on the project description, the potential impacts resulting from the proposed 2D and 3D MSS and

associated activities in the AD-5 operational area can be categorised as.

1. Potential impacts related to the activities of the vessels:

Physical presence:

o interference with shipping activities; and/or with commercial fisheries;

o collision with marine mammals and other protected marine species (such as turtles and whale

sharks);

o loss of towed seismic equipment resulting in physical damage to seabed substrates and

habitats; and

o introduction of invasive marine species.

Atmospheric emissions: emissions primarily from fuel combustion on the seismic and

support/chase vessels.

Discharge to sea and solid wastes: sewage, grey water and food waste discharge, impact to the

marine environment from incorrect handling and disposal of chemicals, solid and hazardous

wastes.



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Generation of light: generation of artificial light aboard the vessels is necessary for safety reasons;

however it can attract marine fauna close to the vessels.

Accidental releases: spills of marine fuel oil (MFO) during at sea bunkering (refuelling), or resulting

from vessel collisions, accidental releases of hazardous materials.

2. Potential impacts related to the 2D and 3D seismic acquisition activities:

Underwater noise generated by the seismic sources (discharge of airguns throughout the

operational area).

3. Impacts related to seabed sampling activities:

Physical disturbance/damage to seabed sediments and benthic communities resulting from gravity

coring.

Summary of Environmental/Social Risk Assessment

An environmental and social risk assessment of the 2D and 3D MSS and associated activities has been

undertaken to understand and manage the environmental and social risks associated with the activities to

a level that minimises impacts on the environment and meets the objectives of the proposed surveys.

The risk assessment indicates that the potential impacts arising from the Project in AD-5 can be categorised

as having Low residual risk levels. No residual risks were assessed as Medium, High or Severe. Table 0-

1 below presents a summary of the assessed level of residual (post-mitigation) environmental and social

risk associated with the Project.

Mitigation Measures

Table 0-2 summarises the key mitigation strategies and measures that Woodside and the geophysical

contractor(s) will implement during the Project to ensure that potential impacts are either eliminated or

reduced to levels that are ALARP and environmentally and socially acceptable.



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Table 0-1: Summary of Environmental/Social Risk Assessment for the Project, AD-5, Offshore Myanmar

Aspect Source of Risk Key Potential Environmental / Social Impacts

Residual Risk Rating

Co

ns

eq

uen

c

e

Lik

eli

ho

od

Res

idu

al

Ris

k

Planned (Routine) Activities

Physical presence of

project vessels

Proximity of project vessels causing

interference with or displacement of other

vessels (commercial shipping, fishing)

Short-term, isolated interference with/exclusion of

commercial shipping and fishing vessels F 1 Low

Routine noise

emissions

Generation of noise from project vessels

and mechanical equipment during normal

operations (excluding seismic survey

equipment)

Temporary and minor behavioural and physiological

disturbance (e.g. avoidance or attraction) to marine

fauna

F 2 Low

Generation of noise from seismic survey

equipment

Temporary and minor behavioural and physiological

disturbance (e.g. avoidance of local area) to fauna

Temporary and minor changes to the location of target

species for fishing activities

E 1 Low

Routine atmospheric

emissions

Internal combustion engines on survey

vessel, supply vessel(s) and machinery

engines

Reduced local air quality from atmospheric emissions

Minor contribution to greenhouse gas emissions F 1 Low

Routine discharges

Discharge of bilge water, grey water,

sewage and putrescible wastes from the

survey and support vessels to the marine

environment

Localised and temporary reduction in water quality due

to nutrient enrichment

Localised and temporary adverse effect to marine biota

in offshore waters

F 0 Low



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Co

ns

eq

uen

c

e

Lik

eli

ho

od

Res

idu

al

Ris

k

Routine light generation Light spill from seismic, support and chase

vessel

Temporary and minor behavioural effect to fauna

attracted to light (seabirds, turtles) F 0 Low

Seabed sampling Gravity coring of seabed sediments

Localised physical disturbance and impact to substrates

and benthic communities

Potential physical damage to submarine cables

F 0 Low

Unplanned Activities (Accidents/ Incidents)

Unplanned discharges

to the marine

environment

Hydrocarbon release to the marine

environment during at sea refuelling, or from

vessel collision

Accidental discharge of

hydrocarbons/chemicals from seismic or

support vessel deck activities and

equipment (e.g. cranes and winches)

Localised and minor temporary disruption to fauna such

as oiling of marine mammals, reptiles and seabirds

Localised and temporary contamination of water which

may lead to toxic effects on marine biota in offshore

waters

F 2 Low

Accidental loss of solid hazardous or non-

hazardous wastes to the marine

environment

Pollution and contamination of the environment and

secondary impacts on marine fauna (e.g. ingestion or

entanglement)

F 1 Low

Unplanned events

associated with physical

presence of project

vessels

Accidental collision between project vessels

and migratory marine fauna

Potential injury or fatality of an individual or a number of

marine fauna with no threat to overall population viability E 1 Low

Loss of seismic streamers and/or acoustic

source

Localised short-term damage of substrates and benthic

communities in the immediate location of the dropped

seismic streamers and/or acoustic source

F 1 Low



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Co

ns

eq

uen

c

e

Lik

eli

ho

od

Res

idu

al

Ris

k

Introduction of invasive marine species

associated with ballast water transfer

Disturbance, damage, or alteration of the receiving

natural ecosystem E 0 Low

Transportation of invasive marine species

via vessel hull, internal niches or in-water

equipment

Disturbance, damage, or alteration of the receiving

natural ecosystem E 0 Low



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Table 0-2: Summary of Mitigation Measures for the Project, AD-5, Offshore Myanmar

Aspect Management Objectives/

Commitments

Mitigation Strategies / Measures

Planned (Routine) Activities

Physical presence of

project vessels

Minimise potential disruption to

commercial fishing and to local and

international shipping activities

Timely advice to local fishermen concerning the survey activities

Notifications to all known relevant fishery stakeholders including the Department of

Fisheries and the various fishing associations,

Fisheries Liaison Officer to participate in the survey and interact with local fishermen

when necessary (Burmese Speaker);

Issuance of Notice to Mariners;

Maintenance of a Safety Zone around project vessel and all towed equipment;

Establishment of a Communications Protocol

Use of chase vessel(s) to liaise with approaching vessels and maintain the Safety

Zone (MSS only)

Crew to include at least one bilingual English/Burmese speaking member

Implementation of a Community Grievance Mechanism to deal with any claims /

complaints

Adherence to the international convention concerning the interaction of vessels at sea

(COLREGS)

Maximizing efficiency of seismic surveys to reduce operation times, where possible;

Standard maritime safety procedures will be followed including the appropriate

navigational lighting and maintenance of radio contact with nearby vessel

Routine noise

emissions from

acoustic source

Minimise disruption to marine fauna,

particularly mammals, fishes and turtles

Appropriate maintenance of vessels and associated equipment.

Maximizing efficiency of seismic surveys to reduce operation times, where possible;

Pre-start search (30mins shallow water, 60mins deep water) (MSS only)



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Commitments


Marine Mammal Observer present (MSS only)

All sightings recorded (MSS only))

Soft start (20mins) (MSS only)

Prestart delay zones (500m of source) (MSS only)

Routine atmospheric

emissions

Minimise impacts on air quality in

operational area

Comply with MARPOL73/78 Annex VI requirements specifically:

Adequate maintenance of mechanical/motor systems (vessel operator to maintain

maintenance and inspection log)

Vessel to hold an International Air Pollution Prevention (IAPP) Certificate as appropriate

to class

Use of low sulphur fuel (sulphur content not to exceed 3.5% m/m) when it is available

Practice segregation of waste - only appropriate non-hazardous wastes to be disposed

in incinerator (wastes which cannot be safely incinerated are to be disposed of at a

shore base)

Routine discharges Minimise reduction of water quality in

vicinity of vessels from discharge of

sewage, grey water, putrescible and

other wastes

Comply with MARPOL requirements for waste management, e.g. sewage treatment

unit, oil/water separator, macerator for biodegradable waste

Vessel to obtain International Sewage Pollution Prevention (ISPP) certificate and

International Oil Pollution Prevention (IOPP) certificate, as appropriate to vessel class

The vessel will carry waste management plan providing procedure for minimizing,

collecting, storing, processing and disposing of garbage waste inventories will be

maintained

Maintain waste log including waste type, quantity and disposal method

Routine light

generation

Minimise light disturbance to marine

fauna

Lighting will be minimised to sources required for navigational and operational safety

reasons.

On-board operational lighting will be located and oriented in such a way to direct

working light where it is needed, and minimise light spill to the marine environment.



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Commitments


Seabed sampling No damage to undersea utilities, for

example submarine cables or pipelines

Confirm locations of undersea utilities prior to any seabed sampling


Commitments


Unplanned Activities (Accidents/ Incidents)

Unplanned

discharges to the

marine environment

Avoid fuel and oil spills

Minimise the potential impacts of fuel

and oil spills on the marine environment

Surveys will take place in the period of calmest weather and seas in the Project

operational area.

Seismic vessels will be relatively slow moving approximately 4.5 knots.

Notice to Mariners will be issued with the Myanmar ports authority to advise as many

vessels as possible of the survey activities and timing.

Survey vessels and chase boats with utilise radar and visual observation to track

vessels in the area and where necessary advise of the activity by radio or hailed.

Refuelling to commence during daylight and when sea conditions are appropriate as

determined by the vessel master;

Job hazard analysis (or equivalent) is undertaken in place and reviewed before each

fuel transfer;

Transfer hoses are fitted with ‘dry-break’ couplings (or similar and checked for integrity);

Spill response kits are maintained and located in close proximity to hydrocarbon

bunkering areas to use to contain and recover deck spills;

Bunkering operations will be manned with constant visual monitoring of gauges, hoses

and fittings and sea surface; and

Radio communications will be maintained between seismic and support vessel



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Commitments


In the event of any incidents which resulted in the release of hydrocarbon fuels to the

marine environment, vessel Masters will enact a Shipboard Marine Pollution

Emergency Plans (SOPEP)

Any significant fuel losses to the marine environment will be immediately reported to the

relevant third-party authorities.

Crew induction to include spill prevention, reporting and use of spill response

equipment.

Unplanned events

associated with

physical presence of

project vessels

Minimise likelihood of interactions with

marine fauna

Apply the procedures for vessel/marine fauna interactions as per IAGC/JNCC

guidelines, these measures include:

o Appropriate searches prior to start-up; soft start procedures; use of the Marine

Mammal Observer (MMO) (MSS only)

o Use of tail buoys designed to minimise turtle interaction (MSS only)

o Any vessel or towed equipment interactions with marine fauna recorded and

reported (MSS only)

o Where possible, reduction in vessel speed if mammals sighted within 500m

o Where possible, survey vessels will not approach closer than 100m for a cetacean

(unless animals bow riding)

o Training of personnel

Minimise risk of bringing exotic and pest

marine species into Bay of Bengal via

ballast water exchange

All Woodside-contracted vessels will comply with IMO Ballast Water requirements

Vessels which have obtained their ballast water from an area outside of Bay of Bengal /

Andaman Sea are not to discharge it within 50 nautical miles from land, or in water

depths less than 200m

Vessels to maintain record of ballast water uptake and discharge locations

Note that freshwater ballast can be discharged



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Commitments


Minimise risk of bringing exotic and pest

marine species into coastal waters via

biofouling of hull and other niches

Woodside’s invasive marine species risk assessment process will be applied



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Acoustic Disturbance to Marine Fauna

The response of marine fauna to seismic airgun noise will range from no effect to some behavioural

changes. Immediate physical effects are likely only to occur at very short ranges and high sound

intensities and will largely be unlikely to occur for the majority of species, as most free-swimming

animals will practice avoidance manoeuvres well before they get within the ranges at which physical

effects may occur. Animals that do not move away from the path of a seismic vessel because of

behavioural or physical constraints, or which are caught unaware within a few hundred metres of an

array when it starts up, will be most at risk of pathological effects. A behavioural response could occur

within 2.0km in deep water and 6.1km in shallow water of the airgun source using the 160dB re 1µPa

NMFS criteria..

Noise associated with airguns used during seismic surveys can cause behavioural changes in whales,

including swimming away from the source, rapid swimming on the surface and breaching. The level of

noise at which a response is elicited varies between species and even between individuals within a

species. With regards to avoidance behaviour by baleen whales; it is known that baleen whales will

avoid operating seismic vessels and the distance over which the avoidance occurs seems to be highly

variable between species and even within species. It is considered that this avoidance behaviour

represents only a minor effect on either the individual or the species population unless avoidance results

in displacement of whales from nursery, resting or feeding areas, at an important period for the species.

The AD-5 operational area and surrounding waters is not a known critical habitat for any cetacean

species.

For cetaceans, whale sharks and turtles that may be present in the operational area and surrounding

waters during the survey periods, the implementation of the procedures based on the International

Association of Geophysical Contractors (IAGC) Recommended Mitigation Measures For Cetaceans

during Geophysical Operations and the United Kingdom Joint Nature Conservation Committee (UK

JNCC) Guidelines for minimising the risk of injury and disturbance to marine mammals from seismic

surveys, plus the implementation of specific vessel-marine fauna interaction procedures to minimise

the risk of collision with the support and chase vessels, and the use of streamer tail buoys designed to

minimise turtle interaction, will minimise the likelihood of negative impacts upon these individuals from

survey activities.

PUBLIC CONSULTATION AND INFORMATION DISCLOSURE

Approach

The public consultation for the Project in AD-5 offshore Myanmar aimed to achieve a consistent,

comprehensive, coordinated and culturally appropriate approach. Principles employed for consultation

included:

Stakeholder identification, analysis and mapping;

Information disclosure;

Consultation and participation, and

Feedback system.

Stakeholders were identified at three levels – Union (Country/National level), Regional (Ayeyarwady

Region) and ‘Local’ (Township and Village-tract levels). Stakeholder groups included Government, civil

society and institutions and potentially affected people in local communities.



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The consultation process was designed to align to the stages of an IEE, and involved three key phases:

1. Consultation for the IEE;

2. Baseline Data Gathering: conducted from 28th March 2015 to 24th June 2015, and

3. Disclosure of the IEE (to be completed within ten days after submission of the report to MOECAF).

Outcomes of Consultation

Some Union level Government departments highlighted the importance of following national

regulations, verifying baseline data and community development needs. MOECAF provided details on

the regulatory submission and approvals process. The Department of Fisheries (DoF) representatives

highlighted that they do not want local fishers to be affected by the seismic surveys and that, if there

were not any impacts, they would have no objections to the activities. They also advised that Woodside

should gain the consent of local authorities before undertaking the surveys and to inform the DoF once

the survey has been completed.

Stakeholders from the Ayeyarwady Regional Government encouraged Woodside to continue to engage

with the Regional Government and requested more details on project activities (e.g. vessel

specifications). ‘Environmental Conservation’ was highlighted as an important issue, and specifically

water and air pollution issues were raised. It was also emphasised that Woodside should engage

transparently and sensitively with local communities, particularly as there were existing sensitivities in

local communities about previous development projects, resulting in local controversy due to non-

transparent engagement.

As per Myanmar regulations, this draft IEE will be made available for public comment.. The full report

will be made available to the public in English and a non-technical summary will be made available in

Burmese. The report will be disclosed to stakeholders by means of local media, at public meeting

places and at Woodside’s office in Yangon.



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Plate 0-4: Disclosure of Project Activities, Ywar Thit Village-tract (29/03/2015)

Plate 0-5: Disclosure of Project Activities, Thae Phyu Village-tract (31/03/2015)



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ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN

Overview

A Project-specific Environmental and Social Management Plan (ESMP) has been prepared for the

proposed marine seismic surveys and associated activities in AD-5. The ESMP aims to provide an

environmental and social management framework by outlining the compliance requirements, mitigation

measures and monitoring programmes to be undertaken throughout the marine seismic surveys and

associated activities.

The ESMP has been prepared based on the findings of this IEE and describes management measures

designed to mitigate potential environmental and social impacts of the proposed marine seismic surveys

and associated to levels that are considered to be ALARP and acceptable. The overarching purpose of

the ESMP is to:

Integrate management and mitigation measures into the Project activities in order to reduce or

mitigate any potential adverse impacts on natural and socio-economic environments.

Consider and address the concerns and interests of stakeholders who will potentially be engaged

or impacted during execution of the marine seismic surveys.

Establish systems and processes for delivery and implementation of the Project environmental and

social requirements in order to meet statutory and compliance standards.

Stakeholder Engagement and Communications Plan

The Stakeholder Engagement and Communications Plan details plans for the continued engagement

and notification of the proposed activities with local coastal communities, fishers and key stakeholders

prior to, during and after the surveys are completed.

The Plan contains actions and protocols that satisfy management requirements of both the Social

Management Plan and ongoing stakeholder engagement requirements. The Plan will be regularly

revisited, updated and improved over the life of the Project as more information is gained about

stakeholders and their needs.

As part of this Plan, a Community Grievance Mechanism will be established and communicated.

Roles and Responsibilities

The ESMP describes the key roles and responsibilities for all personnel (Woodside and contractors;

onshore and offshore) who will be involved in the Project.

Monitoring, Record Keeping and Reporting

The ESMP details all of the monitoring, record keeping and reporting requirements for the 2D and 3D

MSS and associated activities in the AD-5 operational area.

Auditing and Review

Environmental performance auditing will be undertaken to confirm that all significant environmental and

social aspects of the seismic survey activity are covered by the ESMP. It will also confirm that the



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standards to achieve environmental and social performance are being implemented and identify

opportunities for continuous improvement and potential non-conformances.

Emergency Response

Project-specific Emergency Response Plans (ERP) will be developed by the survey contractors and

submitted to Woodside for review and approval prior to commencement of the surveys.

All vessels (seismic, support and chase vessels) involved in the Project will have onboard equipment

for responding to emergencies, including but not limited to medical and firefighting equipment, and spill

response equipment.

CONCLUSIONS

With the control and mitigation measures that will be employed, the environmental and social impacts

of the proposed Project in AD-5, offshore Myanmar, are expected to be localised and temporary.

Overall, the proposed 2D and 3D MSS, gravity and magnetic data acquisition, and seabed sampling

are not expected to have any long-term effects on local or regional biodiversity. The data acquisition

will not adversely impact ecosystem structure and function, for any of the key environmental and social

sensitivities and values identified for the marine environment of the operational area and surrounding

waters. The characteristics of the activities, particularly their relatively short duration and separation

(temporal and/or spatial) from sensitive environmental and social resources, mitigate many of the

potential environmental and social effects of the Project.

The risk assessment indicates that, with appropriate management, the residual environmental and

social impacts associated with the proposed Project are all ranked Low, are ALARP and acceptable.

There are no High, Medium or Severe ranked environmental and social impacts associated with the

Project.

This IEE describes the potential environmental and social impacts associated with the proposed Project

in AD-5, offshore Myanmar. The environmental and social impacts arising from the Project will not have

any significant negative effects on the environment during and after the proposed activities. This

outcome will be assured, by the implementation of the management and mitigation measures described

in this IEE (i.e. in the ESMP).

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