Emissions QA/QC Framework: Catch Issues Before Regulators Do

By Jordan Coulam, Environmental Specialist

Whether it’s greenhouse gas or HAPs reporting, or monitoring for permit compliance, emissions reports can be complex. It is especially important that these reports are consistent and accurate, as they are compared to other reporting requirements, such as TRI. This quick list of QA/QC items can assist your facility in finding potential issues - before your next audit rolls around.

1. Consistency Between Reports

Selecting what data to use can be tricky. You may have production data, inventory data, sales data - how do you know which to pick? Ensure whichever source you choose is supported by EPA or other regulating body guidelines, and that it is defensible and consistent across all reports your facility reports. Want more pointers? Check out our webinar on Harmonizing Reporting Across Platforms.

2. Year Over Year Comparison

Another useful comparison can be to compare your emissions report with previous years. As a rule of thumb, any changes over 10% should be justified with a process change or other explanation. Auditors will want to know what changed at your site to warrant large increases or decreases.

3. Known Changes

If your process or facility has undergone changes, be able to confidently explain how they impact your emissions. For example, if one of your emissions units changed to a product with lower toluene content, you should be able to trace that lower percentage product all the way to the decreased total emissions. 

4. Regulatory Changes

Stay up to date on regulatory changes that impact what chemicals are counted, how calculations are performed, etc. Consider signing up for a regulatory update newsletter, such as those offered by EPA, your county Air Quality Division, or your state Department of Environmental Quality. Toolkit’s blog and newsletter are also great sources to stay informed.

Professional organizations host conferences and luncheons that tend to provide these updates. Consider webinars and other online resources from trusted sources. 

If you want a second pair of eyes on emissions data, or want to improve your tracking systems, Toolkit is here to help.