EPA Method 9 Certification: A Comprehensive Guide to Smoke School

For professionals responsible for monitoring air emissions, EPA Method 9 certification is a mandatory requirement for regulatory compliance. This certification, obtained through a “smoke school,” ensures accurate observation and documentation of visible emissions from various industrial sources. This article provides a detailed overview of the Method 9 certification process, who needs it, and what to expect during training and testing.

Who Needs EPA Method 9 Certification?

EPA Method 9 certification is required for individuals who:

• Conduct opacity readings for regulatory compliance.
• Monitor visible emissions from stationary or fugitive sources.
• Perform at facilities required to document opacity levels.
• Serve as the designated observer for the facility’s air permit.

Even if not actively conducting observations, many facilities require backup certified observers to maintain continuous compliance coverage. Industries commonly requiring Method 9 observers include:

• Power Generation: Coal, natural gas, and biomass power plants.
• Manufacturing: Cement, steel, glass, and chemical plants.
• Waste Management: Municipal solid waste, medical waste, and hazardous waste incinerators.
• Construction Materials: Asphalt and concrete plants.
• Wood Products: Lumber mills, plywood manufacturing, and wood-fired boilers.

Understanding the Certification Exam

To earn your Smoke School certification, you must demonstrate the ability to accurately measure smoke opacity with the naked eye. The exam involves evaluating a series of smoke plumes and recording your observations.

How the Test Works

A smoke generator releases 50 different smoke plumes – 25 white and 25 black. Observers have a limited time to assess the opacity (the degree to which the smoke blocks light) of each plume.

Recording Your Data

You must record your opacity estimate for each plume on an official record form. This form serves as your “opacity reading” and must adhere to federal standards (Method 9). Sample Opacity Records Forms are available, but you can also utilize your own as long as it includes all required information.

Passing Standards

To pass the exam, your recorded readings must closely match the machine’s actual opacity settings. The level of acceptable variance is defined in the federal guidelines.

Smoke School Training Options

Several organizations offer EPA Method 9 certification training, both in-person and virtually. AeroMet is one of the largest smoke school providers in the U.S. And Canada, offering over 400 certification events annually. Compliance Assurance also provides information on smoke school requirements and training options. Virtual Smoke School, LLC (www.virtualsmokeschool.com) offers an online lecture program as an alternative to traditional classroom instruction.

Recertification follows the same process as initial certification. Many facilities recommend refresher courses every three years, even if not required, to maintain observer proficiency. Morrison Environmental Engineering offers training sessions convenient to Modern England.

Why Accuracy Matters

Certified Method 9 observers play a critical role in ensuring facilities comply with air quality regulations. The records created during opacity observations are legal documents used to demonstrate adherence to environmental laws. The Smoke School training emphasizes practicing accuracy before the final exam.