On 13 Aug, blast-like noise and tremors were reported across 4 districts of Rayong. On 17 Aug, the Industrial Estate Authority of Thailand (IEAT) inspected the WHA ESIE 5 site in Ban Khai and found signs that rock had been blasted, though the developer and contractor said only breaker machines were used. IEAT has ordered a halt to earthworks on all rock areas in the project and barred outsiders from the site. The developer must explain site operations, EIA compliance and permits within 3 working days. If violations are found, the minister says action will be taken immediately. Relevance for most SMEs: low, unless you work in construction, quarrying or contracting in the Eastern Seaboard, where stricter scrutiny of blasting and EIA compliance is likely.