EPA’s Method 22 Emissions Observations Using Smartphones

What is Method 22 and what are fugitive emissions?

Method 22 is a simple procedure that uses the human eye to determine the total time an industrial activity causes visible emissions.

Fugitive emissions are non-stack emissions that escape during material transfer, from buildings that contain the process, or directly from process equipment. Some examples include dust from unpaved roads; dust from grinding, crushing and sandblasting operations; and dry material loading or unloading.

Method 22 can also be used for visible emissions from stationary sources such as smoke stacks if there is such a requirement in the applicable emission standard.

Automating Record Keeping

There are demonstrable benefits to recording Method 22 information using an electronic form:

Easy-to-use and efficient data recording using mobile devices (Android / iOS)
Ensuring required M22 intervals are kept
Minimizing learning curves and maximizing efficiencies
Identifying and standardizing your M22 observation points and providing an electronic ‘how to’ guides
Organized, easy way to manage record keeping
Quick data retrieval for inspectors/auditors

First, find out what processes, stacks, or buildings you need to observe based on what the visible emission rule requires for your facility. In other words, what pieces of equipment or buildings at your plant you need to observe using Method 22.

Walk around the facility, building, or structure that has the process you need to observe and find where potential emissions may occur.

Choose a location with a clear view of the building or operation you are supposed to observe. Make sure it is safe – not in the way of moving equipment — and does not pose any other safety hazard.

Pick a spot where the sunlight is not shining directly into your eyes.

Use your Smartphone’s Electronic Form App to record all required information.

More information about Method 22 is available at:

https://www.epa.gov/emc/method-22-visual-determination-fugitive-emissions

EPA’s Method 22 Emissions Observations Using Smartphones

Author: PervidiAdmin

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