The Environmental Protection Agency uses audits to safeguard health and the environment by helping facilities discover and fix federal and state law violations. The EPA may audit your facility for several reasons — increased failed calibrations, questionable data for CO2 audits, flow-to-load or heat input changes, reporting errors, late quarterly reports, or as part of an EPA, state, or annual compliance review. This process can be time-consuming and stressful. Your facility can best handle an audit with preparation and a data acquisition system (DAS) like StackVision, Alliance's industry-leading DAS, for monitoring, reporting, and compliance. How Your Data Acquisition System Helps You Pass Regulatory Audits It's essential that you can walk the person certifying compliance at your facility through how all of your compliance averages are calculated and how to make adjustments to parameters. With a DAS like StackVision, you decide how you need to comply and how you want to configure your system — while starting within the framework of a robust compliance engine that gives you full transparency and control. StackVision creates, calculates, records, and retains each of these averages and data points for verification purposes. This traceability is extremely valuable during audits with regulators, since you can show the exact values, processes, and calculations behind any questioned average. Being able to easily prove that quality assurance procedures are in place — and being followed precisely — also gives you firm ground to stand on during an audit. A quick review of a few displays or scheduled reports each morning tells you the state of your system and lets you plan your day. If a monitor is drifting out of control, you can respond. If a calibration check fails, you can act quickly to fix it and reduce downtime. Since much of what used to eat up your time is automated, you have more time to investigate anything trending toward a problem. That doesn't mean the process is out of your hands, though. A good DAS configures the system to fit your needs and the automation level that's right for you. You should also be able to use the software to dig into your data, see charts comparing factors, edit operational data, and add notes, codes, and flags to explain any unusual situation. Additionally, a DAS can provide predictive averages and alarming to help you avoid hazardous or legally challenging situations like exceedances and deviations — helping you stay out of trouble from an environmental or permit perspective while maximizing operating efficiency. Download Our CEMS Regulatory Audit Checklist: CEMS Regulatory Audit Checklist CEMS Audit Checklist: General Questions To prepare for an audit, know the answers to the following general questions. Has this facility ever been through an audit? If yes, when? What was the outcome of the audit, and what was the response to the audit report? What training have plant operators received to understand the permit, their obligations under the permit, and plant management expectations? How often is refresher training provided? What training have the CEM system operators received to understand the permit, their obligations under the permit, and plant management expectations? How often is refresher training provided? What kind of training have the CEM system operators received on maintaining the hardware? How often is refresher training provided? Are there records showing when all the training occurred? Is there documentation describing the topics covered for all the training mentioned? CEMS Audit Checklist: Recordkeeping Questions To prepare for an audit, know the answers to the following record-keeping questions. Does the plant have organized record-keeping or a filing system? Does the plant have a designated area for retaining all working records for the CEM/COM systems? Usually, these are the records for the current year. Does the plant have a designated area for the long-term retention of past operating and maintenance records (at least five years or more)? Remember, even on days the unit does not operate, you still need records proving that the full complement of records isn't required. CEMS Audit Checklist: Quality Assurance Quality Control (QA/QC) Plans To prepare for an audit, know the answers to the following QA/QC plan questions: When was the last time the QA/QC Plan was updated? When was the last time the CEM operators reviewed the QA/QC Plan? Are there any records documenting the dates of review? Are the Designated Representative and Alternate Designated Representative identified in the plan by title and name? Has the plan ever been submitted to the local or state agency for review? If yes, what was the result of that review? What was the plant's reaction to the regulatory review? Is there an outline or written procedure for each of the quality assurance tests in the plan? Does the plan describe how to address invalid data for Part 75 reporting and apply Missing Data algorithms? Does the plan describe how to address invalid data for Part 60 reporting? How to add reason and action codes? Does the plan describe how opacity data is processed when invalid or during maintenance work? Does the plan describe how to calculate monitored values for: 6-minute opacity averages 1-hour averages for Part 75 1-hour averages for Part 60 3-hour averages Extended averages for 24-hour, 30-day, or 30-boiler operating averages CEMS Audit Checklist: Acid Rain Program Questions To prepare for an audit, please do the following: Review the Part 75 CEM Field Audit Manual Have up-to-date copies of the following documents: Part 75 regulations Reporting instructions for Monitoring Plan records Quality Assurance and Certification Emission records Plain English Guide to the Part 75 Regulations Establish a designated location for all correspondence with the EPA, including: Notices for Commencing Certification/Recertification activities Notices for RATAs Submission notices and feedback reports from the EPA via ECMPS Have an up-to-date written procedure for how to prepare, generate, and evaluate EDR files for: Updating and revising Monitoring Plan records Quality Assurance and Certification records Emission Records Have an up-to-date written procedure to review Part 75 submission files prior to submission. Have a written procedure outlining the facility's plans for balancing any SO2 or NOx mass emissions versus allowances (federal or state programs). CEMS Audit Checklist: ECMPS Questions To prepare for an audit, know the answers to the following ECMPS questions: Does the plant know where to find ECMPS information? Does the plant have the latest set of reporting instructions for: Monitoring Plan records Quality Assurance and Certification records Emissions records Does the plant have a procedure for securing and updating the passwords for ECMPS used by the various agents? Need assistance? We're here to support you and make sure your facility is audit-ready.

Working in an environmental group at a facility means managing competing responsibilities — all of which require close attention to detail. When you have in-house procedures, checklists, QA/QC plans, and other organizational aids, you achieve greater consistency and perform tasks more efficiently. Our Monitoring Plan Checklists serve as a built-in reminder for infrequent but recurring activities that can't be missed. Having standardized workplace procedures in place keeps you in compliance and out of trouble with auditors. There's a Better Way — and it starts with planning ahead. Data Review Checklists for CEMS Use the following data review checklists to stay organized and audit-ready: Data Review Checklist for Full CEM Systems Data Review Checklist for Appendix D CEM Systems Data Review Checklist for Appendix E CEM Systems Data Review Checklist for LME (Low Mass Emitting) Monitoring Systems Additional Activities to Keep on Your Radar Quarterly Linearities Before attempting a linearity check, confirm you have more than 500 psi remaining in each cylinder. Review the last few daily calibration checks to verify monitors are responding within normal expectations. Routine Maintenance Equipment and Supplies Routine maintenance is typically performed on a monthly schedule. Set aside time for it, and keep extra equipment and supplies on hand to minimize downtime. Maintaining spare equipment and a contingency plan for unexpected situations is a sound practice. Gas Cylinder Supplies Track your gas cylinder inventory carefully — Protocol I gas cylinders require at least 28 days from order to ship after the vendor receives your request. If you're down to your last set of linearity or daily gas cylinders, order at least two more sets immediately. Shelf life is not a concern; certification sheets typically confirm cylinders remain valid for at least seven years. Compliance Reports Compliance reports are high-stakes documents with specific content requirements. Reporting frequency varies by program — quarterly, semi-annually, or annually. A checklist approach ensures consistency and completeness. Key reports include: Quarterly acid rain files, review documents, and submission records Quarterly excess emissions, downtime, and performance summary reports for state or local agencies Semi-annual monitoring status reports for your operating permit Annual compliance reports for your operating permits Reports for Management Review Facility management needs visibility into unit performance to stay prepared — staffing levels, supply chains, and operational decisions all depend on it. Standard reports to prepare include: Unit/Turbine/Generator Performance Reports Fuel Consumption Reports Generation Reports Multiple Unit Operating Reports A well-maintained set of procedures and supporting documents reduces the burden of ongoing compliance obligations. In the event of staff turnover, documented processes also help new team members understand their responsibilities and get up to speed quickly. Alliance's StackVision DAS includes built-in tools to support your monitoring plan. The QA Test Deadline Report tracks scheduled QA activities — including upcoming linearities, cylinder gas audits, RATAs, annual fuel flow meter calibrations, and NOx Correlation testing (required every five years) — and shows how many days remain before each deadline. The report can be scheduled to print or email automatically, or configured to generate an alarm when a warning threshold is reached. It's one of the more practical tools for avoiding missed QA milestones. Alliance Technical Group also provides regulatory and reporting services for facilities that need additional support managing compliance obligations.

Alliance Technical Group's regulatory experts created an extensive Guide to Part 75 Audit Preparation to help plants stay audit-ready. These helpful checklists are a useful starting point to prepare for an inspection or audit by either a state agency or the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). For more information, consult the EPA's Field Audit Manual. Download the free 40-page Guide to Part 75 Audit Preparation.

New Global Dashboards and Global User Management bring portfolio-wide visibility and centralized access control to multi-site organizations SkyBridge users can now see what is happening across their operations and manage teams across multiple sites from one place. Two major new features—Global Dashboards and Global User Management—reduce the time spent moving between individual sites, helping multi-site organizations access the information they need and manage user permissions more efficiently. See the Full Picture with Global Dashboards The new Global Dashboard gives SkyBridge users a single place to view compliance data across multiple sites, quickly, easily, and intuitively. No more jumping between sites to piece together a portfolio-level view. What the Global Dashboard delivers: Drill-down navigation: Most numbers and charts are interactive. Select any metric to see the details behind it and navigate directly to the relevant records in SkyBridge. This drill-down experience makes it easier to move from a high-level trend to the underlying information without searching through individual sites. Trend indicators: Color-coded arrow symbols show whether metrics are moving in the right direction. Green indicates favorable movement, while orange or red highlights areas that may require attention. Conditional formatting: This feature changes the appearance of values based on defined thresholds, allowing potential issues to stand out immediately. Time period controls: Switch between data timeframes with tabs or selectors. See today, this week, this month, or whatever timeframe matters most. Customizable and Expandable: A default set of dashboard widgets comes pre-configured and ready to use out of the box. Add additional widgets, rearrange, collapse sections you don't need, or build entirely new dashboards tailored to your workflow. Take the interactive Global Dashboard walkthrough to explore the new portfolio-wide view and drill-down capabilities. Manage Users Across Sites from One Place The new Global User Management feature gives SkyBridge administrators one centralized tool for managing users and permissions across every site they oversee. Managing users across dozens of sites one at a time is a thing of the past. Spend less time on admin. Gain more control over access. What the Global User Managerment feature delivers: Sites View: See all of your sites in one grid. Expand any site to view its users, their permissions, and their admin status. From the same screen, administrators can assign users to a site, update permissions for one or multiple users, or remove access. Users View: The Users view displays every user across the organization’s sites. Expand a user to see which sites they have access to and what permissions they hold. Assign them to additional sites, update their permissions, or remove their access to specific sites without touching their account. Add New Users: Create new SkyBridge user accounts, assign them to one or more sites, and set their default permissions in a single pop-up. No more managing account creation and site access as separate steps. Search and Filter: Both the Sites and Users grids support full-grid search and column-level filtering. Administrators can search by name, email address, or site or filter numerically by user or site counts, making it easier to locate the right record within a large organization. Permission Descriptions on Hover: Not sure what a permission controls? Hover over any permission name to see a plain-language description of exactly what it does. No tab-switching, no external documentation required. Smart Permission Logic: Elevated permissions behave intelligently. Selecting Client Admin automatically grants all other permissions. Selecting Maintenance restricts all other permissions and displays a clear warning. The system prevents invalid permission combinations, so your access configurations are always correct. Last Admin Protection: SkyBridge also protects against the accidental removal of a site’s last administrator. If a removal would leave a site without an admin, the action is blocked with a clear explanation — protecting your team from losing access without a way back in. Take the interactive Global User Management walkthrough to see how administrators can manage users, sites, and permissions from a centralized view. Who Can Access These Features? Global Dashboards are available to all SkyBridge users. Global User Management is available to users with Client Admin permissions. If you believe you should have access but do not see one of these features, contact your SkyBridge support representative. As always, if you have questions or need assistance getting started, our team is here to help.SkybridgeSupport@alliancetg.com What Is SkyBridge? SkyBridge is Alliance Technical Group's cloud-based software platform for managing LDAR, OGI, fenceline monitoring, cooling tower programs, and air permitting data in real time. Field data updates your records the moment it's captured, so teams get accurate, centralized compliance data without juggling spreadsheets or waiting on manual uploads. Learn more about SkyBridge.

The EPA has finalized changes to the Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act, or EPCRA, hazardous chemical inventory reporting requirements. The changes align the terminology and hazard categories used for EPCRA Sections 311 and 312 reporting with OSHA’s 2012 and 2024 Hazard Communication Standard updates. What Is Changing? For facility owners and operators, the main takeaway is: the hazard information reported on Tier II forms will more closely match the information already provided on your Safety Data Sheets (SDS). Who Does the Rule Apply To? EPCRA Sections 311 and 312 apply to owners and operators of facilities that are required under OSHA’s Hazard Communication Standard to prepare or maintain an SDS for a hazardous chemical. What Does This Mean for My Facility? This is a reporting-process change. The updated Tier II form will contain a larger and more detailed list of hazard categories. However, facilities should generally be able to select the applicable categories directly from the chemical’s SDS instead of interpreting how OSHA classifications fit within broader EPCRA groupings. This should: Reduce inconsistencies between SDSs and Tier II reports. Reduce the amount of interpretation required when preparing reports. Make it easier to transfer hazard information from an SDS to the inventory form. Provide emergency planners and responders with more precise information about the hazards present at a facility. What Should Facility Owners and Operators Do Right Now? No immediate changes are required for the Tier II reports covering calendar year 2026. When Will the Changes Apply? The final rule was published on June 22, 2026, and becomes effective on August 21, 2026. The compliance date for using the new hazard categories is January 1, 2028. EPA expects facilities to use the revised categories for their calendar year 2027 Tier II reports, due March 1, 2028. Preparing for the Change Facility owners and operators should expect a more detailed Tier II hazard-category section beginning with calendar year 2027 reporting. Facilities that need the complete regulatory language, category tables, definitions, and section-by-section revisions can review EPA’s final rule, EPCRA Hazardous Chemical Inventory Reporting Requirements: Conformity With the 2024 OSHA Hazard Communication Standard, published at 91 FR 37022. Navigating this reporting shift doesn't have to fall on your team alone. Alliance Technical Group's Compliance as a Service (CaaS360) includes Tier II Reporting under EPCRA Section 312 — from SDS review and hazard categorization to inventory calculations and LEPC/fire department submission — with one partner managing your compliance calendar.

Alliance Technical Group's Geospatial Measuring of Air Pollutants (GMAP) service is a breakthrough in how we monitor and manage air quality. Geospatial Measurement of Air Pollution is like a high-tech detective for air pollution. It's a mobile service, meaning our team can travel around, gathering information on various air pollutants. It uses sophisticated technology to analyze this data and create detailed maps showing where these pollutants are most concentrated, helping to pinpoint the sources of pollution. Understanding Air Quality Challenges Air pollution is a complex issue. It's not just about the amount of pollutants in the air, but also about understanding how they move and change over time. Traditional stationary monitoring methods only give us a snapshot of the situation, often missing the bigger picture. Pollution doesn't stay put; it spreads and changes with the wind, weather, and other factors. GMAP's ability to move and track pollution in real time gives us a much clearer view of what's happening with our air quality. How GMAP Makes a Difference GMAP is essentially a mobile laboratory. Our team is equipped with advanced instruments to measure different types of air pollutants at numerous points across the facility, including along the fenceline and surrounding roadways. These instruments include multiple gas analyzers and highly accurate GPS systems for mapping. This technology allows for real-time, on-site air quality assessments, which are crucial for quick and effective environmental management. Alliance also collects weather data, bringing together gas analyzers, wind data, and GPS to generate maps. Wind direction is essential to this process as it allows our team to backtrack from the observed pollutant concentration to the potential emission source(s). Picture a petroleum refinery that needs to ensure it's not exceeding pollution limits. GMAP can be brought in to monitor the air both within and around the facility boundary at any location accessible by vehicles (including the facility fenceline, neighboring communities, etc.), giving instant feedback and helping to pinpoint potential areas of concern relevant to environmental regulatory compliance. Tech Trends and Advancements The technology behind GMAP is part of a larger trend towards smarter, more connected environmental monitoring systems. We're seeing a rise in the use of real-time data analysis, Internet of Things (IoT) devices, and advanced mapping software in environmental science. These tools are making it possible to understand and respond to environmental challenges more quickly and accurately than ever before. Benefits of GMAP Real-time Data and Analysis: The ability to gather and analyze data in real time is a significant advantage. It enables quicker responses to potential environmental hazards and helps in making informed decisions to mitigate risks. Advanced Mapping and Analysis: GMAP's geospatial mapping program enhances the understanding of air pollutant dispersion and source identification, which is crucial for effective air quality management. Mobility and Flexibility: Alliance's GMAP can move across a facility and monitor in real time, a significant advantage compared to stationary monitoring devices. This allows for a full picture of pollutant concentrations across the entire site and is less dependent on wind direction. Contribution to Public Health and Environment: By ensuring better compliance with air quality standards and providing accurate data on pollutant levels, GMAP plays a crucial role in protecting public health and the environment. Potential Results and Impact of Using GMAP By providing real-time, accurate information about air pollution, GMAP can have a significant impact on: Improved Public Health: By identifying and addressing pollution sources more quickly, we can reduce exposure to harmful pollutants, leading to healthier communities. Increased Corporate Responsibility: Businesses can use GMAP to monitor their own emissions, helping them to operate more sustainably and responsibly. Alliance Technical Group's GMAP (Geospatial Measuring of Air Pollutants) capabilities combines on-demand mobile monitoring with real-time data to help facilities quickly identify unknown emission sources, strengthen existing monitoring programs, support EPA inspections, and respond rapidly during environmental incidents. Live data is accessible while in the field, enabling faster decisions and more immediate compliance actions. Backed by extensive expertise from the EPA's Office of Research and Development (ORD) GMAP program, Alliance delivers customized monitoring solutions that provide detailed snapshots of air quality conditions and reduce environmental risk. By combining advanced mobile technology with deep regulatory and technical expertise, GMAP helps organizations gain actionable insights, protect public health, and make more informed environmental decisions.

Decatur, AL and Edmonton, AB — 7/14/2026 – Alliance Technical Group, a leading provider of environmental testing, monitoring, and compliance services, announced today the acquisition of Emissions Test Group (ETG), a trusted provider of industrial source emissions testing services headquartered in Edmonton, Alberta. The acquisition strengthens Alliance's presence in the Canadian environmental services market while adding a highly experienced field team with deep expertise across a broad range of emissions testing disciplines. Founded in 2012, ETG has built a strong reputation for delivering safe, accurate, and efficient emissions testing services to industrial clients across Western Canada. The company supports sectors such as oil refining and upgrading, wood products, power generation, chemical production, paper production and mineral/metal refining and production. Its work includes all aspects of source emissions testing, including manual stack surveys, CEMS commissioning and performance tests (RATAs & CGAs), gas turbine DLN tuning, pollution-control efficiency and guarantee testing and process optimization studies. "Emissions Test Group has earned an outstanding reputation in Western Canada through a genuine commitment to client relationships, data integrity, and field excellence," said Chris LeMay, CEO of Alliance Technical Group. "Daryl and his team have built something special; a practice grounded in technical precision and long-term partnerships with the clients they serve. That approach aligns perfectly with Alliance's values, and we're thrilled to welcome them to our growing network." With the addition of ETG, Alliance expands its source emissions testing capabilities in Canada while providing ETG's clients and team members with access to Alliance's broader resources, technical depth, and national platform. "Joining Alliance marks an exciting new direction for ETG and the team we've built over the past decade," said Daryl Zander, Founder of Emissions Test Group. "Our focus has always been on doing the work right, building real relationships with our clients, and earning their trust one project at a time. Alliance shares those values, and this partnership gives us the platform to serve our clients even better while opening doors to new opportunities we couldn't reach on our own." This acquisition underscores Alliance's continued commitment to expanding its environmental testing and compliance capabilities across North America.

A Continuous Emissions Monitoring System (CEMS) is used to continuously measure and record pollutant emissions — such as SO₂, NOₓ, CO, and opacity — from industrial stacks to demonstrate compliance with air quality regulations. These systems operate in harsh industrial environments where heat, moisture, particulate matter, and corrosive gases degrade equipment over time. Most CEMS failures are preventable. Drawing from years of field experience across power generation, industrial manufacturing, and chemical processing facilities, Alliance technicians have identified the most common failure patterns and the maintenance practices that prevent them. 1. Plugged Probe Filters Probe filters are designed to protect the sample system, but excessive particulate loading can quickly overwhelm them. Common causes: Excessive eductor pressure creating too much suction, incorrect probe selection for the application, missing impingement shields, and high particulate loading from the process itself. How to identify it: Watch for frequent filter replacements, reduced sample flow rates, analyzer instability, and rising maintenance frequency. Any one of these can indicate a filter that’s working harder than it should. How to prevent it: Optimize eductor pressure settings, install probe impingement shields where appropriate, and evaluate process conditions that generate excess particulate. Most importantly, match the probe to the application — a standard probe is not always the right tool. In one facility, a standard probe struggled with high particulate loading from a furnace process. After evaluating the application, technicians recommended replacing it with a dilution probe better suited for harsh conditions, significantly reducing maintenance requirements. Failed Probe Filter Dirty Air Purge Filter 2. Moisture Passing Through the Sample Conditioning System Water slip is one of the most common issues encountered in CEMS sample conditioning systems. When moisture bypasses the chiller, analyzers can experience erratic performance, calibration drift, and potential damage. Common causes: Excessive sample flow rates, chiller temperatures set too high, undersized heat exchangers, and inefficient or degraded moisture removal components. How to identify it: Look for unstable analyzer readings, unexplained calibration drift, or visible moisture in sample lines downstream of the chiller. These symptoms are often misdiagnosed as analyzer problems when the root cause is upstream in the conditioning system. How to prevent it: Verify sample flow rates against system design specifications, maintain chiller temperatures appropriate for your application, evaluate heat exchanger capacity relative to actual process conditions, and inspect moisture removal components on a regular schedule. Even small adjustments to flow rate and temperature can dramatically improve moisture removal and protect analyzers from long-term damage. 3. Dirty Instrument Air Systems Instrument air systems provide clean, dry air to analyzers and other sensitive equipment. When neglected, contaminants such as moisture and oil can impact system performance. Common causes: Poor air dryer maintenance, saturated filters, moisture accumulation, and oil contamination. How to identify it: Unexplained analyzer performance issues affecting multiple instruments at once, visible moisture or oily residue in air lines, and accelerated component wear can all indicate a compromised instrument air supply. Because these symptoms mimic other failure modes, instrument air quality is often the last thing checked. How to prevent it: Replace desiccant and filters routinely, inspect tubing for moisture or contamination, and include air cleanup systems in preventative maintenance programs. A clean instrument air supply is foundational to CEMS reliability. Facilities that treat air system maintenance as optional tend to experience recurring, difficult-to-diagnose analyzer problems that disappear once the air supply is properly addressed. Fresh tubing for this Air Clean up System Fresh desiccant, clean filters and new tubing will go a long way to ensure that your daily drift is kept to a minimum 4. Corrosion from Acidic Condensate Corrosion is often a hidden problem that develops gradually until instrumentation begins to fail. Common causes: Acidic condensate formation, incompatible tubing materials, and harsh operating environments. How to identify it: Green deposits on tubing and fittings are a reliable early warning sign of active corrosion and should never be ignored. Unexplained sample flow restrictions, fitting failures, and analyzer contamination can also indicate that corrosion has progressed beyond the surface. How to prevent it: Use corrosion-resistant materials, routinely inspect and flush sample lines, and address moisture issues before corrosion develops. Corrosion frequently appears as green deposits on tubing and fittings — a warning sign that should never be ignored. 5. Improper Shelter HVAC Systems Analyzer shelters require stable environmental conditions to support reliable measurements. Common causes: Undersized air conditioning systems, lack of heating capability, and large temperature fluctuations. How to identify it: Calibration issues that correlate with outdoor temperature changes, analyzer alarms that appear during summer heat or winter cold, and visible condensation inside the shelter are all signs that environmental conditions are outside acceptable limits. How to prevent it: Install HVAC systems designed for year-round operation, maintain stable shelter temperatures, and monitor environmental conditions routinely. Maintaining shelter temperatures between approximately 72°F and 78°F can help improve analyzer stability and reduce calibration issues. Improper HVAC Proper HVAC 6. Dirty Gas Coolers Gas coolers are often overlooked until performance begins to suffer. Common causes: Infrequent inspections, lack of preventative maintenance, and dirt and corrosion buildup. How to identify it: Rising sample temperatures, increased moisture in the sample downstream of the cooler, and declining analyzer stability can all indicate a cooler that’s no longer performing adequately. Because cooler degradation is gradual, the connection to downstream analyzer problems isn’t always obvious. How to prevent it: Conduct regular visual inspections, establish cleaning intervals, and inspect for corrosion and performance degradation. Dirty Gas Cooler 7. Damaged Umbilicals Umbilicals are critical to maintaining sample integrity between the probe and analyzer. Once moisture enters an umbilical, damage can accelerate rapidly, particularly during freeze-thaw cycles. Common causes: Water intrusion, damaged insulation, poor sealing practices, and aging components. How to identify it: Unexplained moisture in the sample system, calibration instability that can’t be traced to the analyzer or conditioning system, and visible physical damage to the umbilical jacket are all indicators. Problems often surface — or worsen — after the first hard freeze of the season. How to prevent it: Inspect umbilicals regularly, verify heater operation, seal connection points, and address leaks before winter weather arrives. Melted Umbilical Tubing 8. Neglected Probe Tubes and Sample Ports Probe tubes and sample ports often receive attention only after a failure occurs. Routine inspections can prevent complete sample flow loss and unexpected outages. Common causes: Lack of preventative maintenance, particulate accumulation, corrosion, and mechanical damage. How to identify it: Declining sample flow, increased pressure drop across the probe, and unexplained analyzer instability can all indicate that probe tubes or sample ports are partially restricted. Complete flow loss is typically the point at which neglected probes are first discovered — at which point an outage is already underway. How to prevent it: Inspect every 12–24 months, remove buildup before restrictions develop, and replace damaged components proactively. Damaged Tube Damaged Probe Tube Stack Probe Tube Damaged Probe Tube 9. Winter-Related Sample System Failures Cold weather can expose weaknesses throughout a CEMS installation. Common problems: Flange leaks, frozen sample lines, calibration instability, and restricted flow paths. How to identify it: Calibration instability that appears during cold snaps, reduced or lost sample flow, flange leaks that develop or worsen in cold weather, and frozen sample lines are the most common winter failure patterns. Systems that performed adequately through fall may fail quickly once sustained cold arrives. How to prevent it: Verify insulation integrity, maintain adequate heat tracing, and inspect vulnerable areas before winter arrives. Preparing for seasonal changes is often far less expensive than responding to winter-related failures. Exposed Spool Weather Damage 10. Installation Errors Even new systems can experience reliability issues when installation details are overlooked. Common causes: Incorrect flange bolt patterns, poor alignment, and improper component placement. How to identify it: Persistent flow problems, unexplained leaks at flanges or connections, and calibration issues that begin at startup and don’t resolve with standard troubleshooting are often indicators of installation errors. Systems with these characteristics frequently benefit from an installation review before further component-level troubleshooting. How to prevent it: Verify flange drawings before installation, follow installation QA procedures, and perform thorough post-installation inspections. A few extra minutes during installation can prevent hours of future troubleshooting. 11. Disorganized CEMS Racks Poor organization can make troubleshooting and maintenance significantly more difficult. Common causes: Unlabeled components, inconsistent tubing routing, poor documentation, and difficult equipment access. How to identify it: Technicians spending excessive time tracing lines before performing routine maintenance, unlabeled or inconsistently labeled components, tubing runs that don’t match current system diagrams, and difficulty locating isolation points or service connections are all signs of a rack that needs organizational attention. How to prevent it: Label components clearly, maintain current documentation, organize tubing and wiring, and conduct periodic system reviews. A well-organized rack not only looks better — it reduces troubleshooting time and improves long-term maintainability. Disorganized CEMS Rack Alliance's CEMS Craftsmanship What Most CEMS Failures Have in Common While the issues above vary, most share the same underlying causes, including deferred maintenance, inadequate inspection frequency, environmental exposure, improper equipment selection, and small issues that go unaddressed until they become outages. The most effective CEMS programs share three traits: scheduled inspections tied to operational cycles, documentation that tracks component condition over time, and a clear escalation path when field technicians identify emerging issues. CEMS Field Services from Alliance Technical Group Alliance Technical Group provides CEMS field services to industrial and utility facilities across North America. Our technicians perform preventative maintenance programs, system inspections and assessments, analyzer troubleshooting and repair, umbilical replacement, calibration and QA/QC support, emergency field service response, and CEMS upgrades and retrofits. Facilities working with Alliance typically use our field services to address recurring reliability issues, prepare for regulatory audits, evaluate aging equipment, or establish a structured maintenance program where none previously existed. If your facility is experiencing unexplained downtime, calibration drift, or compliance data gaps, a CEMS system assessment is a practical starting point. Alliance technicians can evaluate your current installation, identify emerging issues, and recommend a maintenance approach based on your process conditions and regulatory requirements.

If your facility emits enough air pollution to cross federal thresholds, you need a Title V Operating Permit to legally operate. This guide covers who needs one, how the permit process works, and what it takes to stay in compliance once your permit is issued. Overview of Title V Operating Permits In 1990, Congress authorized the U.S. EPA to require stationary emission sources to obtain an operating permit under Title V of the Clean Air Act Amendments (CAAA). These permits categorize emission sources as minor or major sources, depending on their annual emissions of key pollutants like NOx, SO2, and CO. What does this mean for your facility? Major sources (100+ tons/year of criteria pollutants) face stricter monitoring and reporting requirements. Facilities must renew permits every five years and maintain compliance through continuous emissions tracking. If your permit requires hourly or minute-by-minute data, a Continuous Emissions Monitoring System (CEMS) is essential. Who Must Obtain a Title V Operating Permit? Several categories of facilities and emission sources are required to obtain a Title V Operating Permit. Major Sources Beyond the 100 tons per year threshold for criteria pollutants, a facility also qualifies as a major source if its potential to emit reaches: 10 tons per year of any single hazardous air pollutant (HAP) 25 tons per year of any combination of HAPs Thresholds can be lower in areas that fail to meet national ambient air quality standards, known as nonattainment areas. A facility below these thresholds is considered a minor source. Acid Rain Program "Affected Sources" The Acid Rain Program (40 CFR Part 75) was created to reduce SO2 and NOx from fossil fuel-fired power plants. Any emission source subject to Acid Rain rules must obtain a Title V permit regardless of size, whether it qualifies as a major source or not. Solid Waste Incineration Units Under Section 129 Clean Air Act Section 129 sets standards for solid waste incineration units. All units regulated under Section 129 are subject to Title V permitting regardless of size, including: Municipal waste combustors (large and small) Hospital, medical, and infectious waste incinerators Commercial and industrial solid waste incinerators Sewage sludge incinerators Other solid waste incinerators Non-Major Sources Subject to NESHAP or NSPS The National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP, 40 CFR Parts 61 and 63) and New Source Performance Standards (NSPS, 40 CFR Part 60) regulate air pollutants from stationary sources. Sources subject to these standards generally need a Title V permit even if they fall below major source thresholds, although EPA has exempted some area source categories in specific NESHAP subparts. Check the subpart that applies to your facility. How Do I Obtain a Title V Permit for My Facility? If your facility is required to obtain a Title V permit, start with your state or local air pollution control agency. The process generally follows these steps: You submit a permit application, and the permitting authority prepares a draft permit. The draft permit is opened to public comment for 30 days. The permitting authority sends the proposed permit to EPA, which has 45 days to review it and object if it does not meet Clean Air Act requirements. If EPA does not object, the public has 60 days to petition EPA to object. If EPA objects, the permitting authority has 90 days to revise the permit and resubmit. Once issued, the work shifts from obtaining the permit to demonstrating compliance with it. How Do You Demonstrate Title V Compliance? Your permit spells out exactly how your facility must prove it is meeting its emission limits. For most Title V sources, compliance comes down to three things: continuous monitoring, periodic testing, and reporting. Continuous Emissions Monitoring A CEMS paired with a Data Acquisition System (DAS) collects, validates, and stores the emissions data your permit requires, and generates the reports your permitting authority expects to see. Stack Testing Many Title V permits require periodic performance testing, commonly called stack testing, to demonstrate that emission units meet their permitted limits. Testing follows EPA Reference Methods (40 CFR Part 60, Appendix A) and typically covers pollutants such as particulate matter, NOx, SO2, CO, and volatile organic compounds. Facilities operating CEMS also need Relative Accuracy Test Audits (RATAs) to verify monitor accuracy under Part 60 Appendix F or Part 75. Test protocols, agency notifications, and final test reports all carry deadlines tied to your permit conditions, so scheduling matters. Reporting and Recordkeeping Title V facilities must submit monitoring reports at least every six months and an annual compliance certification signed by a responsible official. Any deviations from permit conditions must be reported promptly, and supporting records are typically retained for at least five years. How Can Alliance Technical Group Help You Comply With Your Title V Permit? Alliance Technical Group is a full suite provider for Title V compliance, from testing at the stack to the data and reports your permit requires: Stack Testing: As the largest stack testing provider in the U.S., Alliance performs the compliance tests, performance tests, and RATAs your permit requires. CEMS and DAS: Alliance offers a full suite of CEMS hardware and DAS software, including StackVision and the 8864 Data Controller, plus ongoing maintenance and support. StackVision helps run real-time emissions reports to meet air permit requirements. Managing different permit conditions across multiple sites is complex, but StackVision simplifies compliance by centralizing emissions data and automating reports. As a full suite provider, Alliance also supports the reporting side of your permit, helping keep semiannual monitoring reports and compliance certifications on schedule.

A Data Acquisition System — also called a Data Acquisition and Handling System (DAHS) — is software and hardware designed specifically to collect, validate, calculate, and store emissions data for regulatory compliance. It is the system of record for your facility’s air emissions reporting. If your facility operates a Continuous Emissions Monitoring System (CEMS), EPA regulations impose detailed, ongoing obligations on how your emissions data is collected, validated, calculated, and reported. Meeting those obligations accurately — without data gaps, documentation errors, or audit exposure — is harder than it sounds when you’re relying on general-purpose process systems or manual processes. A Data Acquisition System (DAS) is purpose-built to handle those requirements automatically. It’s not the only way to manage emissions data, but it’s the most reliable — and the approach used by the vast majority of regulated facilities for good reason. This guide breaks down what a DAS does, which regulations drive the need for one, how it compares to alternatives, and what Alliance Technical Group provides to regulated facilities across North America. What Does a Data Acquisition System Do? A purpose-built DAS handles the full scope of what compliant operation requires: Continuous data collection from analyzers, opacity monitors, and parametric monitoring equipment Daily calibration drift checks and automated recording, as required under 40 CFR Part 60 § 60.13 Real-time flagging of out-of-control periods and automatic application of data substitution procedures Quarterly audit tracking — RATA, CGA, and RAA — per Appendix F, Procedure 1 of Part 60 Emissions calculations using the specific methodologies your permit and applicable regulation require Long-term data storage with a complete, auditable record — minimum two years under Part 60 Compliance report generation and electronic submissions in agency-required formats, including ECMPS for Part 75 sources These are not optional features. They reflect the functions your CEMS must perform under federal and state regulation. A DAS is engineered around exactly those requirements. Which EPA Regulations Apply to Your Facility? The regulations don’t mandate a DAS by name — they mandate what your monitoring system must do. Use the table below to identify which regulations apply to your facility and what your CEMS is required to handle. Regulation Applies To Key CEMS Obligations Does Alliance's DAS Handle This? 40 CFR Part 60 (NSPS) Power plants, industrial boilers, cement kilns, glass furnaces, chemical plants, and other new source categories Continuous CEMS operation Daily calibration drift checks Documented out-of-control periods Quarterly accuracy audits (RATA/CGA/RAA) Written QC program 2-year minimum data retention Yes. Alliance’s DAS, StackVision, automates daily drift logging, flags out-of-control periods in real time, tracks quarterly audits, and retains your full data record. 40 CFR Part 75 (Acid Rain Program) Electric generating units and other affected units under the Acid Rain Program and NOx mass emission programs CEMS installation and certification Monitoring plan documentation and submission Missing data substitution procedures Quarterly electronic reporting via ECMPS RATAs and QA/QC per Appendix B Yes. Alliance configures StackVision for ECMPS 2.0 submissions (including the JSON format required), manages monitoring plan alignment, and applies correct Part 75 substitution methodology. 40 CFR Part 63 (NESHAP) Hazardous air pollutant sources across chemical manufacturing, petroleum refining, pulp and paper, glass, metals, and others CPMS/CEMS operation during all process conditions Defined handling of data during breakdowns, out-of-control periods, maintenance, and calibration Subpart-specific recordkeeping and reporting requirements Yes. Alliance configures StackVision to the specific NESHAP subpart applicable to your source category, including data handling requirements during out-of-control and maintenance periods. Your facility’s operating permit may also impose requirements more stringent than any federal baseline — tighter limits, additional monitoring obligations, or specific reporting formats driven by state or local air agencies. Alliance will configure your DAS to reflect your actual permit, not just the federal standard. Data Acquisition Systems vs. Alternatives Some facilities manage CEMS data through plant historians, distributed control systems (DCS), PLCs, or spreadsheet-based processes. The regulations don’t prohibit these approaches — but they create meaningful operational and compliance risk. What General-Purpose Systems Lack Plant historians and DCS platforms are engineered for process operations, not EPA compliance reporting. They collect data, but they are generally not built to: Apply EPA-specific emissions calculation methodologies for your source category and permit Automatically track out-of-control periods and apply the correct data substitution under Part 60 Appendix F or Part 75 Generate ECMPS-compliant quarterly submissions or other required electronic reports Maintain the QA/QC audit trail regulators review during inspections Flag calibration drift exceedances and document the required corrective response Building these functions into a process system requires custom engineering that your team then owns — and must maintain accurately as regulations and permits evolve. Where the Risk Shows Up The practical compliance risk isn’t always a hard violation on day one. It’s the accumulation of undocumented gaps — a missed drift check, the wrong substitution methodology applied, a report in a format the agency can’t process, or a data correction that was never re-submitted. These are the issues that surface during audits and cost facilities significant time and exposure. A purpose-built DAS removes most of that risk by design. The regulatory logic is built in and maintained by specialists who track regulatory changes. Your team operates the system rather than engineering it. Utilizing Alliance 's StackVision™ Data Acquisition System™ Ready to evaluate a DAS for your facility? Whether you’re replacing a legacy system, evaluating a DAS for the first time, or not sure if your current setup is still aligned with your permit — Alliance Technical Group can help you find out.

Accurate air emissions data is critical for regulatory compliance — even small discrepancies can lead to reporting issues, audits, and penalties. While daily and weekly data reviews are not required by regulations, they provide a proactive approach rather than a reactive one to any data discrepancies. What Does Your Emissions Data Include? Emissions data consists of hourly readings for measured parameters, calculated emissions values for each hour, calibration data for instruments, and summarized aggregate data. Your emissions file should cover one full calendar quarter of hourly and aggregate emissions measurements for a specific unit or group of units. This includes your: Monitoring Plan Quality Assurance (QA) files (such as linearity, RATA, Gross Calorific Value, and QA Certification Events) Any certification events related to CEMS maintenance. These events are necessary for activities like analyzer replacements, umbilical maintenance, or any other CEMS-related upkeep. Quarterly Reporting Tip: Don't wait until the end of the quarter to generate your quality assurance and emissions files. Instead, generate and review your EDR files regularly throughout the year. This allows you to break the quarter into smaller, manageable parts, helping you catch issues early and make the final submission process smoother. Alliance Technical Group's Regulatory & Reporting team offers daily and weekly data review services. Reviewing Emissions Data & Reporting With StackVision StackVision, Alliance Technical Group's Data Acquisition System (DAS), simplifies emissions monitoring by automating data collection, processing, and reporting while mitigating risks associated with using traditional tools. Challenge Solution Disorganized or Unclear Emissions Data — Analyzing emissions data across multiple systems including multiple spreadsheets can be complex and time-consuming, making it difficult to identify trends, discrepancies, or compliance risks. StackVision's Comprehensive Reporting Tools — StackVision offers a variety of automated reports that organize emissions data in an easy-to-read format. Users can select specific parameters and timeframes, making quarterly reporting reviews more efficient. Identifying Calibration and QA Issues Early — Undetected calibration failures or QA issues can lead to reporting errors and regulatory non-compliance. Daily Part 75 Review – Calibration Detail Report — Automatically compiles all calibration sequences — including daily calibrations, interference checks, and linearity checks. Problem values are color-coded for quick identification, ensuring immediate corrective action. Missed Data Gaps or Compliance Exceedances — Unnoticed missing data, exceedances, or out-of-control conditions can lead to compliance violations and inaccurate reporting. Exception Events Report — StackVision pulls detailed reports on missing data, exceedances, out-of-control events, invalid readings, and suspect data — helping facilities address issues proactively. Identifying Significant Changes in Emissions Data — Tracking emissions data trends can be difficult when you need to detect gradual shifts or anomalies, increasing the risk of compliance issues. Average Data Reports & Trending Reports — StackVision automatically calculates rolling and block averages (hourly, daily, monthly, yearly) to align with permit requirements. The Average Data Trending Report helps users quickly identify significant changes in data trends, allowing for early intervention and more proactive emissions management. Tracking and Managing Missing Data Substitutions — Part 75 mandates that all missing emissions data be properly substituted, which can be difficult to track. Missing Data Substitution Hours Report — Automatically monitors the number of substituted hours for a selected parameter, simplifying compliance tracking. Ensuring Stack Flow Monitoring Accuracy for Coal Plants — Failing a flow-to-load test at the end of the quarter can cause compliance delays and reporting errors. Daily Stack Flow Monitoring via ProcessNow — StackVision performs daily flow-to-load tests, ensuring continuous accuracy. Users can monitor test results and make adjustments throughout the quarter to prevent failures. Ensuring Compliance with Part 60 Opacity Monitoring — Opacity exceedances and downtime events must be carefully tracked to comply with Part 60 regulations. Opacity Matrix & Opacity Duration Reports — StackVision provides color-coded Opacity Matrix Reports, as well as automated Opacity Downtime & Exceedance Reports, making it easier to monitor and report required opacity data. Troubleshooting and Editing Data Efficiently — Sifting through emissions data for troubleshooting can be tedious and error-prone. DataLab for Advanced Data Analysis — StackVision's DataLab allows users to: ✔ View, edit, and export data to Excel ✔ Apply linear adjustments and perform data replacements ✔ Customize and save data views for faster daily reviews ✔ Use color-coded flags for quick anomaly detection Managing Large-Scale Data Processing for EDR Compliance — Ensuring that emissions data is correctly formatted and error-free for EPA/state reporting can be overwhelming. Automated Data Processing & Compliance Management — StackVision's ProcessNow feature transforms data into a reportable format. Data is assembled into the records necessary to build an EDR or any permit reports — ideally on a daily basis. Maintaining error-free processed data ensures an easily generated JSON EDR (or other reportable product) at the end of the quarter. Communication failures between your DAS and CEMS — Data loss and inaccuracies The industry-standard 8864 Data Controller — Acts as a powerful and reliable hardware bridge between StackVision and your emissions monitoring rack. The 8864 delivers consistent performance even in high-traffic and complex network environments, ensuring seamless data acquisition and protection. Client Success Story: Preventing Reporting Discrepancies One common reporting mistake occurs when data is modified after the official submission period without proper re-submission. Alliance Technical Group recently helped a facility that faced a discrepancy in their NOx Percent Monitor Data Availability (PMA). Their internal database showed a 95% PMA, while the EPA's records reflected only 80%. After investigation, it was discovered that data was reprocessed after the submission deadline, but the updated files were never sent to the EPA's Host System. Without correction, this type of oversight can lead to compliance issues or potential fines. How StackVision's Database Locking Wizard Helps Prevent Emissions Data Discrepancies To prevent these types of errors, StackVision provides a Database Locking Wizard, which allows facilities to lock down their emissions database after submitting reports. This ensures data integrity and prevents accidental modifications after the deadline. If adjustments are needed, users can unlock specific portions of the database in under five minutes. Be Proactive with Your Emissions Data Regular emissions data reviews help facilities stay ahead of potential issues rather than scrambling at the last minute. By using StackVision, facilities can streamline emissions data management, automate reporting, and reduce the risk of compliance errors. Want to see how StackVision can simplify emissions monitoring for your facility?

Refineries operate under some of the most demanding emissions monitoring requirements in the industry. The EPA's Refinery Sector Rule (RSR) sits at the top of that list — complex, data-intensive, and unforgiving when monitoring systems fall short. More than one-third of U.S. refineries — 35% — rely on StackVision as their data acquisition system (DAS). That's not coincidental. RSR compliance puts pressure on every part of a facility's monitoring infrastructure, and the right DAS is the difference between staying ahead of a deviation and scrambling to explain one. Here's what RSR actually demands, and how StackVision is built to handle it. What Is the Refinery Sector Rule? The Refinery Sector Rule (RSR) — codified under EPA 40 CFR Part 63 Subpart CC (MACT CC) — makes flare minimization a regulatory mandate. When regulated material does flow to the flare, facilities must monitor and report both the quantity and the destruction and removal efficiency (DRE) at which elevated flares operate: 96.5% combustion or 98% DRE. RSR also requires active monitoring and immediate response to maintain minimum efficiencies. On average, it quadruples the amount of data facilities are required to collect and report. Meeting those requirements without a capable DAS is, in practice, not feasible. Five RSR Requirements That Expose Gaps in Your Monitoring System 1. 15-Minute Block Averages and Full Algorithm Documentation The EPA requires facilities to measure and report key flare parameters: Net Heating Value of the Combustion Zone (NHVcz), Net Heating Value Dilution Parameter (NHVdil) when perimeter assist air is used, Flare Tip Velocity (Vtip), and Pilot Flame Presence and Visible Emissions (VE). Operating limits for NHVcz, NHVdil, and Vtip are based on 15-minute block averages calculated from multiple monitored inputs — flows, temperatures, pressures, and vent gas net heating value. Compliance is determined at the close of each 15-minute block, which demands a DAS that can handle real-time data reduction without gaps. The EPA also requires facilities to provide a copy of the DAS algorithm used to reduce measured data into reportable form. Invalid data — out-of-control periods, maintenance windows, CPMS breakdowns, calibration checks — must be excluded from compliance averages. If your DAS doesn't handle that automatically, you're responsible for documenting your own exclusion procedure. StackVision excludes invalid data in real-time as it's acquired, captures status codes, and provides a complete chain of calculations, data handling, and reduction. System design reports and full configuration control make algorithm documentation straightforward rather than a last-minute scramble. 2. Increased Quality Control Activities and Associated Recordkeeping RSR monitoring often means adding flow meters, analyzers, temperature monitors, and pressure sensors — sometimes in multiples across different streams. Many refineries use a gas chromatograph or mass spectrometer to determine vent gas net heating value, which introduces its own QC demands, including modified PS-9 calibration protocols that can require multiple calibration bottles per check. StackVision provides dedicated tools for monitoring the status of your monitoring systems: displays, reports, alarms, and notifications that catch flatlining before it becomes a data gap. It supports test record management, cylinder gas management, and automated calibration checks — reducing technician exposure and ensuring recordkeeping keeps pace with the monitoring workload. 3. Ready Access to Compliance Parameters for Operators The EPA requires that values from monitored operating parameters be readily accessible onsite for operational control and inspection. That means your operators need quality-assured data in front of them, not buried in a reporting system. StackVision delivers quality-assured values through operator displays and directly to the DCS and historian. Real-time feeds to the DCS allow operators to control flows manually or automatically. Alarms and notifications can be routed to Environmental, Operations, Controls, or any combination of internal teams — so the right people have the right data when they need it. 4. Reporting, Retaining, and Making Data Available Periodic RSR reports include emergency flaring events and deviations from operating limits. Getting to a completed report requires daily or weekly review, logging, coding, and investigation — followed by final compilation and submission. Moving large quantities of data from a historian into spreadsheets is slow and introduces error. Beyond reporting, all required values must be retained for five years, along with a substantial amount of contextual supporting data (per CFR Part 63 recordkeeping requirements). All of it must be available for inspection within 24 hours upon request. Spreadsheet-based systems aren't built for that kind of retrieval. StackVision automates scheduled reports, provides purpose-built displays, and keeps five-year-old data as accessible as data from yesterday. When an inspector asks for something, the answer isn't "we'll have to pull that together." 5. Emergency Flaring Limits — No Startup, Shutdown, or Malfunction Exceptions RSR's emergency flaring provisions hold most flares to the performance standard of the best-operating flares in the industry. Force Majeure events are excluded, but most other emergency flaring events that meet the EPA's criteria are treated as preventable — meaning operator error and poor maintenance are automatic violations with no leeway. That raises the stakes on every aspect of flare monitoring and QC. You need systems that respond to flaring events in real time, maintain continuous quality control, and produce meticulous records that hold up under scrutiny. StackVision provides the monitoring, alerting, and documentation tools to track and prove compliance — and to demonstrate that any deviation was not the result of poor maintenance or operator failure. StackVision Is Built for Refinery Compliance RSR doesn't leave room for monitoring systems that require manual workarounds, struggle to produce documentation on demand, or fall short during a 15-minute block. That's why 35% of U.S. refineries run StackVision. If your facility is navigating RSR requirements — or evaluating whether your current DAS is keeping pace — Alliance Technical Group's CEMS/DAS team can walk you through what StackVision does in a refinery environment.

The end of the year is the right time to get ahead of stack testing season — not the beginning of January when contractors are already booked and procurement is back-logged. Most of what makes Q1 testing go smoothly gets decided in Q4. This checklist covers the year-end actions that protect your compliance schedule, reduce last-minute scrambling, and set your CEMS up for a clean test season. 1. Audit Your Permit Testing Calendar Pull your Air Pollution Control Permit and identify every test requirement due in the upcoming year. Note the applicable regulation, the test method, the emission source, and any operating condition requirements that must be met during testing. This is the foundation — everything else on this list flows from knowing exactly what's due and when. Key things to confirm: Which emission points require testing and under which regulation (Part 60, Part 63, state permit) Whether any rule changes or ICRs issued this year added new testing requirements Deadlines for any initial compliance tests triggered by new or modified sources 2. Review Your RATA Frequency Status If your facility operates under Part 75, your RATA result from this year determines whether you test semi-annually or annually next year. Review your relative accuracy result now to confirm your testing frequency for the upcoming year and factor it into your scheduling decisions before you close out the year. 3. Schedule Your Q1 Testing Now — Before the Holidays Testing contractors book up quickly in January. Facilities that wait until the new year to start the conversation often find their preferred window is already gone. By planning ahead with Alliance, you gain a partner that helps coordinate your testing strategy—not just perform the test. When you schedule with Alliance, we help you: Reserve testing dates before peak-season availability becomes limited Review your testing requirements to confirm the correct scope and regulatory obligations Develop a testing schedule that aligns with your compliance deadlines and facility operations Provide timely proposals and contract support to help avoid Q1 procurement delays Coordinate testing logistics to minimize operational disruption and keep projects moving The earlier planning starts, the more flexibility you have. 4. Confirm Notification Letter Readiness Most stack tests require advance regulatory notification — 30 days for Part 60 and Part 61, 60 days for Part 63. These letters must be signed by the Designated Representative and the Responsible Official. Confirm before year-end that: Your DR and Responsible Official are current and authorized A signed notification letter template is ready to submit when the test window is confirmed You know which agency (EPA, state, or local) the notification goes to for each applicable test Getting this wrong delays your test date and can create compliance exposure if you miss a deadline. 5. Coordinate Unit Outage Schedules With Operations Get the Q1 outage schedule from your operations team before the holidays. Stack testing requires planned downtime and specific operating conditions — normal or worst-case operations depending on the applicable method. Without this coordination in hand, you can't confirm test windows with your contractor or submit notification letters on time. 6. Review Your Gas Cylinder Inventory Gas vendors typically shut down or operate on reduced schedules over the holidays. Before year-end, confirm: You have sufficient calibration gas cylinders on hand to carry you through the holiday period and into early Q1 Reference gas cylinders needed for upcoming linearity checks and RATAs are ordered, NIST-traceable, and not approaching expiration Cylinder concentrations still match your current span settings Running out of reference gas during a test window is an avoidable problem that a year-end inventory check prevents. 7. Review Hourly Max Values and Span Settings Pull the highest hourly values recorded for SO2, NOx, CO2, and flow rate over the past year. If any values are approaching your current span or range settings, you may need a different blend of calibration or linearity gas cylinders heading into the new year. Catching this in December gives you time to adjust before testing begins. 8. Verify CEMS Readiness for Test Season Your CEMS needs to be in a clean, passing state before a stack testing contractor arrives on site. A year-end CEMS review should confirm: No unresolved out-of-control periods in recent calibration history Daily calibration drift is within acceptable limits Monitoring plan and QA/QC plan reflect current equipment configuration Data Acquisition System is generating and archiving QA files correctly A CEMS that isn't ready when the tester arrives can delay the test, invalidate runs, or require retesting — all of which add cost and compliance risk. One Vendor for Both Sides of the Test Most facilities manage CEMS compliance and stack testing through separate vendors. Alliance Technical Group is the one exception. As the largest stack testing provider in the U.S. and a full-service CEMS solutions provider — including our StackVision DAS, CEMS hardware, regulatory services, and ongoing compliance support — Alliance can coordinate both sides of your year-end planning through a single point of contact. That means your CEMS readiness review, reference gas inventory, DAS configuration, and stack test scheduling can all be handled by one team that already knows your system.

Any facility operating a Continuous Emissions Monitoring System (CEMS) or Continuous Opacity Monitoring System (COMS) is required by federal regulation to maintain a QA/QC manual. Manuals are often missing when a new system is purchased, or become outdated after equipment upgrades or replacements. This article outlines the regulatory requirements and the standard elements a QA/QC manual should contain. QAQC Manual Guidance Requirements QA/QC manual requirements are governed by the applicable EPA regulation for your facility: 40 CFR Part 75, Appendix B — applies to electric generating units and other large combustion sources subject to the Acid Rain Program or CSAPR 40 CFR Part 60, Appendix F — applies to sources subject to New Source Performance Standards (NSPS) 40 CFR Part 63 — applies to sources subject to National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP) The original equipment supplier typically develops the QA/QC manual, as it requires detailed technical knowledge of the specific equipment and a working understanding of the applicable regulations. Plant personnel can develop or maintain the manual but will generally need significant input from the supplier or manufacturer. What a QA/QC Manual Must Include A complete QA/QC manual typically contains the following sections: 1. Introduction: Defines the objective of the manual, the facility's QA/QC policy, the scope of the plan, and document control information. Identifies the applicable regulations and references the facility's operating permit. 2. Description of Facility and Equipment: Describes the facility, organizational structure, and personnel responsible for QA/QC activities. Includes equipment details — make, model, and serial numbers — and describes the overall measurement process and monitoring technology. This section requires updating as personnel change and equipment is replaced or upgraded. 3. Quality Assurance Activities: The core of the manual. Describes all QA activities that ensure the CEMS or COMS remains a compliant measurement system. Covers daily calibrations, quarterly audits, and annual testing, including test methods, drift limits, allowable errors, and timing requirements for each activity. 4. Quality Control Activities: Details the corrective actions taken when QA activities identify problems. Includes maintenance schedules, technician training requirements, and spare parts inventory practices. 5. Data Recording and Reporting: Describes how data is recorded and reported, including notification requirements, recordkeeping procedures, and documentation for component additions, maintenance events, and equipment replacements. 6. Glossary of Terms and Acronyms 7. Attachments: Typically includes copies of report types generated by the system and any equipment certificates of compliance. Keep Your CEMS QA/QC Manual Current The manual must be reviewed and updated whenever equipment changes are made — analyzer replacements, system upgrades, or personnel changes all require corresponding updates. An outdated QA/QC manual is a common audit finding. Beyond regulatory compliance, a current manual is a practical training tool for personnel maintaining the equipment. Alliance Technical Group is an end-to-end CEMS solutions provider — from system design, installation, and hardware to DAS configuration, regulatory services, and ongoing compliance support. That includes QA/QC manual development, permit reviews, and ensuring your DAS is aligned with your monitoring and QA/QC plans. If you operate a CEMS, we can support every layer of it.

This guide covers the fundamentals: what air emissions compliance reporting is, what drives the requirements, and what those requirements look like under the two most common federal frameworks — 40 CFR Part 60/63 and 40 CFR Part 75. What Is Air Emissions Compliance? Air emissions compliance means operating your facility within the emissions limits and monitoring requirements established by your applicable regulations and operating permit. For stationary emission sources, this involves continuous or periodic monitoring of pollutants, maintaining records of that monitoring data, and submitting reports to the relevant regulatory agencies that demonstrate ongoing compliance. Non-compliance — whether from actual emissions exceeding permitted limits, monitoring systems that fail to operate as required, or reports that are incomplete or late — carries real consequences: compliance orders, penalties, and in serious cases, operational restrictions. Operating Permits: The Foundation of Your Compliance Obligations Every stationary emission source subject to federal air quality regulations must have an operating permit that authorizes its operation. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency began rolling out these permits under Title V of the 1990 Clean Air Act Amendments in 1995, creating a nationwide permitting program for significant emission sources. Major vs. Minor Sources Each emission source at a facility is categorized as either a major or minor source based on how much of a given pollutant — or combination of pollutants — it releases annually. Under the Clean Air Act, a facility is classified as a major source if its estimated emissions of the six Criteria Air Pollutants exceed 100 tons per year in aggregate. The six Criteria Air Pollutants are: Carbon monoxide (CO) Lead (Pb) Nitrogen oxides (NOₓ) Sulfur dioxide (SO₂) Particulate matter (PM) Ground-level ozone (O₃) Sources that fall below the major source threshold are classified as minor sources. The distinction matters because monitoring and reporting requirements are significantly more stringent for major sources, which is why many facilities invest in pollution control equipment — such as selective catalytic reactors (SCRs) or SO₂ scrubbers — or switch to cleaner-burning fuels to stay below major source thresholds. Your Permit Defines Your Obligations Your Title V operating permit lists every emission source at your facility and specifies the applicable regulations, emission limits, monitoring requirements, and reporting obligations for each one. The permit is the primary document your facility must comply with — and it may be more stringent than the federal baseline if your state or local air agency has added requirements. Understanding exactly what your permit requires is the starting point for any compliance reporting program. Part 60 and Part 63 Reporting Requirements 40 CFR Part 60 (New Source Performance Standards) and 40 CFR Part 63 (National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants) apply to a broad range of industrial sources. Facilities subject to these regulations must submit reports to EPA and applicable state agencies on a quarterly, semiannual, and annual basis. Reports are due within 30 calendar days of the end of each reporting period and must be signed by the facility’s Responsible Official. Quarterly Exception Reports Quarterly reporting under Part 60 and Part 63 is exception-based — meaning the report documents instances where compliance requirements were not met during the quarter, rather than summarizing all operations. Each quarterly report for a monitoring system covers two categories of events: Exceedance events: periods when the monitoring system was operating correctly and producing valid data, but that data showed emissions exceeded the applicable limit or standard. The report must identify when the exceedance began, when it ended, and the cause. Downtime events: periods when a required monitoring system was not functioning as expected while the unit was operating. Any inability to produce valid compliance data is considered a deviation from permit requirements and must be documented with timing and cause. Common causes of exceedance events include startup/shutdown conditions, control equipment problems, and process upsets. Common causes of downtime events include monitoring equipment malfunctions, non-monitoring equipment malfunctions, and quality assurance calibrations. If the total percentage of downtime for the quarter exceeds 5%, or the total percentage of exceedances exceeds 1%, a detailed report is required for each event. Otherwise, a summary report is sufficient. Semiannual Monitoring Reports Semiannual monitoring reports document periods during the previous six months when required monitoring did not occur. The types of monitoring that may be subject to semiannual reporting include: Continuous monitoring systems (CEMS for SO₂, NOₓ, CO₂, or other pollutants; SCR inlet temperature monitors) Periodic monitoring (daily fugitive dust records, opacity readings) Equipment inspection rounds (daily or weekly monitoring of operating equipment) Periodic testing as required by permit Annual Compliance Reports The annual compliance report is the most comprehensive of the three. It lists every compliance requirement in the facility’s permit, characterizes each requirement as continuous, intermittent, or periodic, and states the compliance status for each requirement over the full calendar year. This report gives regulators a complete picture of how the facility performed against its permit obligations for the year. Part 75 Reporting Requirements 40 CFR Part 75 was established by EPA in support of the Acid Rain Program and applies primarily to electric generating units (EGUs) and other affected sources under cap-and-trade programs for SO₂, NOₓ, and CO₂. Unlike Part 60/63’s exception-based reporting, Part 75 operates as an accounting system: EPA assigns annual emissions allowances to each source, and facilities must report actual emissions continuously throughout the year to demonstrate they are operating within their assigned limits. Quarterly Electronic Reporting Facilities subject to Part 75 must submit emissions reports four times a year — one per calendar quarter — to EPA’s Clean Air Markets Division (CAMD) via the Emissions Collection and Monitoring Plan System (ECMPS). Reports must be submitted as Electronic Data Report (EDR) files by the applicable quarterly deadline. Late or missing submissions can be interpreted as an intent not to comply. Each quarterly submission must include: Facility and unit identification information Hourly emissions data, operating data, and QA test results as specified in the monitoring plan Unit operating hours for the quarter and cumulative operating hours for the calendar year and/or ozone season Tons of SO₂ emitted during the quarter and cumulative SO₂ mass emissions for the calendar year (for applicable units) Average NOₓ emission rates (lb/mmBtu) for the quarter and year-to-date (for applicable units) Tons of CO₂ emitted during the quarter and cumulative CO₂ mass emissions for the calendar year (for applicable units) Tons of NOₓ emitted during the quarter and cumulative NOₓ mass emissions for the calendar year and/or ozone season (for applicable units) Total heat input (mmBtu) for the quarter and cumulative heat input for the calendar year, unless exempted Part 75 Quality Assurance Requirements Part 75 reporting is inseparable from a mandatory QA/QC program. Facilities must conduct and document QA activities at the following frequencies, and results must be included in the quarterly EDR submission: Frequency Required QA Activity Purpose Daily Calibration error checks of all monitors; interference checks of flow monitors Confirm analyzers are reading accurately; detect and document any out-of-control conditions before they accumulate Quarterly Linearity checks of gas monitors Flow-to-load ratio tests Leak checks of DP-type flow monitors Verify analyzer response is linear across the full measurement range; confirm flow measurement accuracy Semiannually or Annually Relative Accuracy Test Audits (RATAs) Validate CEMS accuracy against independent reference method measurements at the stack. Frequency depends on prior RATA results — facilities with consistently good RA scores may qualify for annual frequency. QA data — calibration records, linearity results, and RATA results — must be included in the quarterly EDR submission alongside hourly emissions data. Missing or incomplete QA data in a submission is a common source of compliance findings. Part 60/63 vs. Part 75: Side-by-Side Overview Many facilities are subject to both frameworks. The table below summarizes the key differences to help you understand what each regulation requires. 40 CFR Part 60 / Part 63 40 CFR Part 75 Who It Applies To Broad range of stationary sources: boilers, kilns, furnaces, chemical plants, and others subject to NSPS or NESHAP standards Electric generating units (EGUs) and other affected sources under the Acid Rain Program, CSAPR, and related cap-and-trade programs Reporting Model Exception-based: reports document non-compliance events (exceedances and downtime) during the period Accounting-based: continuous emissions tracking against annual allowances; full hourly data submitted each quarter Reporting Frequency Quarterly exception reports, semiannual monitoring reports, annual compliance reports Quarterly electronic submissions via ECMPS Submission Method State and local agency submission (format varies by jurisdiction) Electronic Data Report (EDR) submitted to EPA’s CAMD via ECMPS QA Requirements Quarterly audits required (RATA, CGA, or RAA); written QC program; daily calibration drift checks per §60.13 Daily calibration checks, quarterly linearity checks and flow tests, semiannual or annual RATAs Key Risk Incomplete documentation of exceedance or downtime events; missing semiannual or annual reports Late EDR submissions; incomplete QA data in the submission; out-of-control periods not properly substituted How Alliance Technical Group Supports Air Emissions Compliance Reporting Alliance Technical Group provides environmental compliance consulting and reporting services to regulated facilities across power generation, manufacturing, chemical processing, and other industries throughout North America. Our regulatory specialists and reporting analysts work directly with facility teams to manage the full scope of compliance reporting obligations. Alliance helps facilities by: Navigating complex reporting programs across Part 75, Part 60, and Part 63 requirements. Keeping DAS and CEMS configurations aligned with permit changes and regulatory updates. Identifying and resolving data quality issues before they become reporting or audit findings. Providing experienced regulatory and technical support to help bridge staffing gaps and knowledge loss. Managing reporting workflows and submissions to support accurate, timely compliance reporting. Need Help with Air Emissions Compliance Reporting? Whether you’re new to compliance reporting, managing complex dual-regulation obligations, or looking for a more reliable reporting partner, Alliance Technical Group can help.

Decatur, AL – June 22, 2026 – Alliance Technical Group, the leading provider of environmental testing, monitoring, and compliance services, is pleased to announce the appointment of Amit Kapur as Chief Financial Officer. Amit joins the executive leadership team at a pivotal time in the company’s continued growth, bringing extensive experience in finance, operations, capital strategy, and organizational leadership. Amit Kapur, Chief Financial Officer of Alliance Technical group With more than 25 years of global experience spanning public companies, private equity-backed organizations, and multinational enterprises, Amit has built a distinguished career leading financial and operational transformation. Throughout his career, he has successfully overseen large-scale capital allocation initiatives, mergers and acquisitions, treasury operations, investor relations, and strategic growth programs that have strengthened organizational performance and shareholder value. Most recently, Amit served as Chief Financial Officer of DRI Healthcare, where he led strategic capital deployment initiatives, enhanced investor engagement, and supported significant value creation. Prior to DRI Healthcare, he held CFO and senior executive leadership positions with Enwave Energy Corporation, ATS Corporation, Canaccede Financial Group, General Electric, and George Weston Limited. In addition to his executive leadership experience, Amit serves on several boards and audit committees and brings a strong academic and professional background. He holds an MBA from Cornell University, the CFA designation, CPA credentials in both Canada and the United States, and has completed advanced executive education through Harvard Business School. In his role as Chief Financial Officer, Amit will oversee Alliance’s financial strategy, capital planning, and financial operations while supporting the company’s continued growth and long-term value creation. His leadership will play a key role in advancing Alliance’s mission and positioning the organization for continued success.