United States
Environmental Protection
Agency
Office of Air
and Radiation
Washington DC 20460
EPA-454/R-97002a
February, 1997
vvEPA
QUALITY ASSURANCE
PROCEDURES
Index to Key Provisions
Proposed Requirements for
Designation of Reference and
Equivalency Methods for PM
2.5 and Ambient Air Quality
Surveillance for Particulate
Matter Proposed Rule
David Musick
Monitoring and Quality Assurance Group
Emissions, Monitoring, and Analysis
Division
Office of Air Quality
Planning and Standards
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
On December 13, 1996, EPA proposed several changes to the ambient paniculate monitoring
program:
(1) Propose to amend the national ambient air quality standard (NAAQS)
for particulate matter (61 Federal Register 65637) in 40 CFR Part 50.
(2) Propose an interim implementation policy on the revised NAAQS
(61 Federal Register 65 752) in 40 CFR Part 51.
(3) Propose requirements for the designation of reference and equivalent
methods for particulate matter with an aerometric diameter less than
or equal to 2.5 micrometers (PM2 5) (61 Federal Register 65780) in 40 CFR
Parts 53 and 58.
These proposed revisions to the particulate matter NAAQS include adding two new primary PM2 5
standards set at 15 micrograms per cubic meter (ug/m3) annual mean, and 50 ug/m3 daily mean. The
proposed new annual PM2 5 standard would be met when the 3-year average of the annual arithmetic
mean PM2 5 concentrations, spatially averaged across an area, is less than or equal to 15 ug/m3. The
proposed new 24-hour PM2 5 standard would be met when the 3-year average of the 98th percentile
of 24-hour PM25 concentrations at each monitor within an area is less than or equal to 50 ug/m3.
The EPA also proposed a new PM2 5 reference method and revised requirements for the designation
of reference and equivalent methods for PM2 5 and for ambient air quality surveillance for particulate
matter in 40 CFR Parts 50, 53, and 58, respectively. In 40 CFR Part 50, Appendix L, EPA proposed
a new reference method for PM2 5 based on a conventional type ambient air sampler that collects 24-
hour integrated PM2 5 samples on a filter that is subsequently moisture and temperature equilibrated
and analyzed gravimetrically. The new provisions for designating each reference method for PM2 5
have been added to 40 CFR Part 53 as a new subpart E. Performance-based provisions for
specification of measurement methods are also proposed for designating equivalent methods for
PM2 5. These provisions are included in proposed additions to subparts A and C and proposed new
subparts E and F to Part 53.
The proposed Part 58 air quality surveillance and data reporting requirements are intended to
establish a revised particulate matter monitoring network that would collect a variety of monitoring
data, principally population-oriented data that correspond to the community-based epidemiologic
studies. The number of sites and sampling requirements is based on the new concepts of monitoring
planning areas (MPAs), spatial averaging zones (SAZs), and metropolitan statistical areas (MSAs).
EPA's proposed standard for PM2 5 contains more stringent quality assurance procedures for ambient
PM2 5 monitoring. Therefore, considerably more enhanced quality assurance in the areas of sampler
operation, filter handling, data quality assessment, and other operator-related aspects are required.
This document is an attempt to summarize the quality assurance procedures into a concise effective
format.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Title CFR Sections Page
Accuracy Checks - automated methods 40 CFR 58, Appendix A 22
Section 3.2
Accuracy Checks - manual 40 CRF 58, Appendix A 23
Section 3.4.1
Air Quality Surveillance 40 CFR 58.20 20
Ambient Barometric Sensor 40 CFR 50, Appendix L 7
Section 7.4.9
Ambient Temperature Sensor 40 CFR 50, Appendix L 7
Section 7.4.8
Analytical Balance Weighing Procedures 40 CFR 50, Appendix L 11
Section 8
Annual Operational Evaluation 40 CFR 58, Appendix A 24
Section 6
ANSI Requirements 40 CFR 58, Appendix A 30
Section 2.5
Bi-Monthly Audit 40 CFR 58, Appendix A 24
Section 6.1
Bias and Excessive Imprecision Test 40 CFR 58, Appendix A 25
Section 6.2
Calibration Flow Rates 40 CFR 50, Appendix L 13
Section 9.2
Calibration Procedures 40 CFR 50, Appendix L 12
Section 9.1
Class I Equivalent Method 40 CFR 53.1(q) 15
Class II Equivalent Method 40 CFR 53.1(r) 15
Class III Equivalent Method 40 CFR 53.1(s) - : 16
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TABLE OF CONTENTS (Continued)
Clock/Timer System 40 CFR 50, Appendix L
Section 7.4.12
Collocated Measurements for Designation 40 CFR 53 Subpart C 17
Section 53.34(a)
Comparing Candidate 40 CFR 53 Subpart C 16
and Reference Methods Section 53.34
Consolidated Metropolitan Statistical Area 40 CFR 58.1(jj) 19
Control Devices and Operator Interface 40 CFR 50, Appendix L 10
Section 7.4.16
Core Monitor Stations 40 CFR 58, Appendix D 29
Section 2.8.2.1
Core PM SLAMS 40 CFR 58.1(kk) 19
Data Output Port Requirement 40 CFR 50, Appendix L 10
Section 7.4.17
Electrical Power Supply 40 CFR 50, Appendix L 9
Section 7.4.15
Electrical Power Supply 40 CFR 50, Appendix L 9
Section 7.4.15
Engineering Diagrams and Figures 40 CFR 50, Appendix L 1
Section 14
Evaluation at National Level 40 CFR 58, Appendix A 25
Section 6.3.3
Evaluation of Reporting Organization 40 CFR 58, Appendix A 25
Section 6.3.2
Filter Alkalinity 40 CFR 50, Appendix L 2
Section 6.9
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TABLE OF CONTENTS (Continued)
Filter Archival 40 CFR 58, Appendix D 30
Section 2.8.2.4
and 40 CFR 50, Appendix L 30
Section 10.17
Filter Collection Efficiency 40 CFR 50, Appendix L 2
Section 6.7
Filter Contamination 40 CFR 50, Appendix L 2
Section 6.8.1
Filter Equilibration 40 CFR 50, Appendix L 30
Section 8.2
Filter Medium 40 CFR 50, Appendix L 2
Section 6.2
Filter Moisture Pickup 40 CFR 50, Appendix L 2
Section 6.6
Filter Pore Size 40 CFR 50, Appendix L 2
Section 6.3
Filter Pressure Drop 40 CFR 50, Appendix L 2
Section 6.5
Filter Size 40 CFR 50, Appendix L 2
Section 6.1
Filter Temperature Control 40 CFR 50, Appendix L 8
Section 7.4.10
Filter Temperature Sensor 40 CFR 50, Appendix L 8
Section 7.4.11
Filter Thickness 40 CFR 50, Appendix L 2
Section 6.4
Filter Storage 40 CFR 50, Appendix L 30
Section 10
iii
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TABLE OF CONTENTS (Continued)
Filter Transportation 40 CFR 50, Appendix L 30
Section 10
Filter Weight Stability 40 CFR 50, AppendixL 2
Section 6.8
Flow Rate Cut-off. 40 CFR 50, Appendix L 5
Section 7.4.4
Flow Rate Measurement 40 CFR 50, Appendix L 5
Section 7.4.5
IMPROVE Samplers 40 CFR 58, Appendix C 26
Section 2.9
Instrument Accuracy 40 CFR 50, Appendix L 1
Section 4
Instrument Precision 40 CFR 50, Appendix L 1
Section 5
ISO 9000 Registered Facility 40 CFR 53.3(5) 16
Leak-Test Capability 40 CFR 50, Appendix L 6
Section 7.4.6
Measurement Procedures, part 1 = . . 40 CFR 50, Appendix L 14
Section 10
Measurement Procedures, part 2 40 CFR 50, Appendix L 15
Section 10
Metropolitan Statistical Area 40 CFR 58.1(mm) 19
Monitoring Network Completion 40 CFR 58.23 20
Monitoring Objectives and Spatial Scales 40 CFR 58, Appendix D 26
Section 1
Monitoring Planning Area 40 CFR 58.1(nn) 19
IV
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TABLE OF CONTENTS (Continued)
Monitoring Planning Areas 40 CFR 58, Appendix D
and Spatial Averaging Zones - part 1 Section 2.8.1 28
Monitoring Planning Areas 40 CFR 58, Appendix D
and Spatial Averaging Zones - part 2 Section 2.8.1 29
NAAQS 40 CFR 50.6 1
National Performance Audit Program 40 CFR 58, Appendix A 21
Section 2.4
Operating Schedule 40 CFR 58.13(e) 20
Operating Schedule-alternative 40 CFR 58.13(f) 20
Operation and Instruction Manual 40 CFR 50, Appendix L 10
Section 7.4.18
Outdoor Environmental Enclosure 40 CFR 50, Appendix L 9
Section 7.4.14
Performance Specifications 40 CFR 50, Appendix L 4
Section 7.4
PM 2.5 Measurement Range 40 CFR 50, Appendix L 1
Section 3
Population Oriented Monitoring 40 CFR 58.1(qq) 19'
Precision and Accuracy Formulas 40 CFR 58, Appendix A 24
Section 5
Precision Checks - alternative 40 CFR 58, Appendix A 22
Section 3.1.22
Precision Checks - automated methods 40 CFR 58, Appendix A 22
Section 3.1
Precision Checks - collocation 40 CFR 58, Appendix A 23
Section 3.3
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TABLE OF CONTENTS (Continued)
Priority Monitoring Areas 40 CFR 58.13(f)(2) 20
Quality Systems Requirements 40 CFR 58, Appendix A 21
Section 2
Range of Operational Condition 40 CFR 50, Appendix L 7
Section 7.4.7
Reference or Equivalent Method
Applications & Procedures 40 CFR 53.4 16
Reporting Organization 40 CFR 58, Appendix A 21
Section 3.0.2
Sample Air Flow Rate Control System 40 CFR 50, Appendix L 4
Section 7.4.3
Sample Flow Rate 40 CFR 50, Appendix L 4
Section 7.4.2
Sample Flow Rate Regulation 40 CFR 50, Appendix L 5
Section 7.4.3
Sample Period 40 CFR 50, Appendix L 1
Section 3.3
Sampler Configuration 40 CFR 50, Appendix L 3
Section 7
Sampler Design Specifications 40 CFR 50, Appendix L 3
Section 7.3
Sampler Filter Holder Assembly 40 CFR 50, Appendix L 4
Section 7.3.5
Sampler Flow Rate Measurement Adaptor. ... 40 CFR 50, Appendix L 4
Section 7.3.6
Sampler Maintenance 40 CFR 50, Appendix L 15
Section 11
vi
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TABLE OF CONTENTS (Continued)
Sampler Surface Finish 40 CFR 50, Appendix L 4
Section 7.3.7
Sampling Time Determination 40 CFR 50, Appendix L 8
Section 7.4.13
Sequential Samples 40 CFR 53.1(p) 15
Single Sampler Precision. 40 CFR 58, Appendix A.
- low concentration Section 5.3.1.1 24
Spatial Averaging Zone 40 CFR 58.1(tt) 19
Spatial Scales - part 2 40 CFR 58, Appendix D 28
Section 2.8.0.7 to 2.8.0.8
Spatial Scales of Representation 40 CFR 58, Appendix D 27
Section 2.8.03 to 2.8.06
Special Purpose Monitors 40 CFR 58.14 20
State Air Monitoring Report-annual 40 CFR 58.26 21
Substitute PM Samplers 40 CFR 58, Appendix C 26
Section 2.2.1
Systems Audits 40 CFR 58, Appendix A 21
Section 2.5
Testing Physical (design) 40 CFR 53 Subpart E
and Performance Parameters Section 53.50 18
Traceable 40 CFR 58.1(s) 19
Weighing Procedures 40 CFR 50, Appendix L 11
Section 8
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Suimiiai-y of Quality Assurance Requirements for tf«?FM 2.5 Sampler
TITLE
mm*L
40 CFR 50.6
The national primary and secondary ambient air quality standrards for participate matter are: (1) 15.0 micrograms per
cubic meter annual arithmetic mean concentration, and SO micrograms per cubic meter 24 hour average measured in the
ambient air as PM 2.5. The annual primary and secondary PM 2.5 standards are met when the annual arithmetric mean
concentration is less than or equal to 15.0 micrograms per cubic meter. The 24-hour primary standard and secondary PM
2.5 standards are met when the 98th percentile 24-hour concentration is less than or equal to 50 micrograms per cubic
meter. All particulate matter standards are expressed in terms of 3-year averages of annual values.
40 CFR 50, Appendix L,
Section 14
Engineering Diagrams; figures L-l through L-30
40 CFR 50, Appendix L.
Section 3
The lower limit of the mass concentration range should be 1 ug/m3 or less and is determined primarily by the repeatability
(precision) of filter blanks, based on the 24 m3 nominal total air sample volume specified for the 24-hour sample. The upper
limit of the mass concentration range is determined by the filter mass loading beyond which the sampler can no longer
maintain the operating flow rate within specified limits due to increased pressure drop across the loaded filter. This upper
limit cannot be specified precisely because it is a complex function of the ambient particle size distribution and type,
humidity, the individual filter used, the capacity of the sampler flow rate control system, and perhaps other factors.
Nevertheless, all samplers should be capable of measuring 24-hour PM2, mass concentrations of at least 200 fig/m3 while
maintaining the operating flow rate within the specified limits.
40 CFR 50, Appendix L.
Section 3.3
The required sample period for PM2; concentration measurements by this method shall be 1380 to 1500 minutes (23 to 25
hours). However, when a sample period is less than 1380 minutes, the measured concentration, multiplied by the actual
number of minutes in the sampler period and divided by 1440, may be used as a valid concentration measurement for
purposes of determining violations of the NAAQS. This number represents the minimum concentration that would have
been measured for the full 24-hour sample period. When reported to AIRS, this data value should receive a special code.
40 CFR 50, Appendix L.
Section 4
Because the size and volatility of the particles making up ambient particulate matter vary over a wide range and the mass
concentration of particles varies with particle size, it is difficult to define the accuracy of PM25 samplers in an absolute
sense. The accuracy of PM2 5 measurements is therefore defined in a relative sense, referenced to measurements provided
by this reference method. Accordingly, accuracy for other (equivalent) methods for PM2 5 shall be defined as the degree of
agreement between a subject field PM2, sampler and a collocated PM2, reference method audit sampler operating
simultaneously at the monitoring site location of the subject sampler. This field sampler audit procedure is set forth in
Section 6 of part 58, Appendix A of this chapter.
40 CFR 50, Appendix L.
Section 5
Tests to establish initial operational precision for each reference method sampler are specified as a part of the requirements
for designation as a reference method under part 53 of this chapter (§53.56). Annual assessment of routine operational
precision are also required.(58.App A)
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TITLE
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Summary 0f fjuality Assurance Requirements for tine FM 2*5 Sampler
cmsKCTiom, jr: { Fm^MLmGmERmmnNOLooY
40 CFR 50, Appendix L.
Section 6. 1
40 CFR 50, Appendix L.
Section 6.2
40 CFR 50, Appendix L.
Section 6. 3
40 CFR 50, Appendix L.
Section 6.4
40 CFR 50, Appendix L.
Section 6. 5
40 CFR 50, Appendix L.
Section 6.6
40 CFR 50, Appendix L.
Section 6. 7
40 CFR 50, Appendix L.
Section 6.8
40 CFR 50, Appendix L.
Section 6. 8.1
40 CFR 50, Appendix L.
Section 6.9
Circular, 47 mm diameter.
Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) with integral 0.38 ±0.04 mm thick polymethylpentene (PMP) or equivalent support ring.
2 um as measured by ASTM F 316-80
20 - 60 um
Maximum pressure drop: 30 cm H2O column @ 16.67 L/min clean air flow.
Maximum moisture pickup: 0.0% weight increase after 24 hour exposure at 48% relative humidity at 23° C.
Collection efficiency. Greater than 99.7 percent, as measured by the OOP test (ASTM D 2986-91) with 0.3 urn particles at
the sampler's operating face velocity.
Filter weight loss < 20 fig as measured in following two tests. Filter weight loss shall be the average difference between the
initial and the final weights of a random sample of test filters selected from each lot prior to shipment. The number of filters
tested shall be not less than 0.1% of the filters of each lot. The filters shall be weighed under laboratory conditions and have
had no air sample passed through them (i.e., filter blanks). Each test procedure must include initial equilibration and
weighing, the test, and final equilibration and weighing in accordance with section 8 and guidance provided in Reference 2.
Test for surface particle contamination. Install each test filter in a filter cassette (Drawing numbers L-25, L-26) and drop
the cassette from a height of 25 cm to a flat hard surface, such as a particle free wood bench. Repeat three times. Remove
the test filter from the cassette and weigh the filter. The average change in weight must be less than 20 ug. Test of
temperature stability. Place randomly selected test filters in a drying oven set at 40 °C ± 2°C for not less than 48 hours.
Remove, equilibrate, and reweigh each test filter. The average change in weight must be less than 20 fig.
Less than 25 microequivalents/gram of filter, as measured by the procedure given in Reference 2.
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Summary of Quality Assurance Requirements for the FM &5 $awi|iler
40 CFR 50, Appendix L
Section 7
The sampler shall consist of a sample air inlet, downtube, particle size separator (impactor), filter holder assembly, air
pump and flow rate control system, flow rate measurement device, ambient and filter temperature monitoring system,
timer, outdoor environmental enclosure, and suitable mechanical, electrical, or electronic control capability to provide the
design and functional performance as specified in this section 7. The performance specifications require that the sampler
provide automatic control of sample flow rate and other operational parameters, monitor these operational parameters as
well as ambient temperature and pressure, and provide this information to the sampler operator at the end of each sample
period in digital form either visually or as electronic data available for output through a data output port connection.
40 CFR 50, Appendix L.
Section 7.3
Sample inlet assembly. The sample inlet assembly, consisting of the inlet, downtube, and impactor shall be assembled as
indicated in drawing No. L-l and shall meet all associated requirements. A portion of this assembly shall also be subject to
the maximum overall sampler leak rate specification (see section 7.4.6).
Inlet. The sample inlet shall be fabricated as indicated in drawing Nos. L-2 through L-18 and shall meet all associated
requirements.
Downtube. The downtube shall be fabricated as indicated in drawing No. L-19 and shall meet all associated requirements.
The impactor (particle size separator) shall be fabricated as indicated in drawing Nos. L-20 through L-24 and shall meet all
associated requirements.
Impactor filter specifications:
A. Size: Circular, 35 to 37 mm diameter
B. Medium: Borosilicate glass fiber, without binder
c. Pore size: I to 1.5 micrometer, as measured by ASTM F 316-80
D. Thickness: 300 to 500 micrometers
Impactor oil specifications:
A. Composition: Tetramethyltetraphenyltrisiloxane, single compound diffusion oil
B.
C.
D.
E.
Vapor pressure: Maximum 2 x 10'* mm Hg at 25 °C
Viscosity: 36 to 40 centistokes at 25 °C
Density: 1.06 to 1.07 g/cm3 at 25 °C
Quantity: 1 niL
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Summary of Quality Assurance Requirements for tlie FM 2,5 Sampler
TITLE
40 CFR 50, Appendix L.
Section 7.3.5
The sampler shall have a sample filter holder assembly to adapt and seal to the down tube and to hold and seal the specified
filter (section 6) in the sample air stream in a horizontal position below the downtube such that the sample air passes
downward through the filter at a uniform face velocity. The upper portion of this assembly shall be fabricated as indicated
in drawing Nos. L-25 and L-26 and shall accept and seal with the filter cassette, which shall be fabricated as indicated in
drawing Nos. L-27 through L-29. The lower portion of the filter holder assembly shall be of a design and construction that
(1) mates with the upper portion of the assembly to complete the filter holder assembly, (2) completes both the external air
seal and the internal filter cassette seal such that all seals are reliable over repeated filter changings, and (3) facilitates
repeated changing of the filter cassette by the sampler operator.
Samptqr
40 CFR 50, Appendix L.
Section 7.3.6
A flow rate measurement adaptor as specified in drawing No. L-30 shall be furnished with each sampler
40 CFR 50, Appendix L.
Section 7.37
AH internal surfaces exposed to sample air prior to the filter shall be treated electrolytically in a sulfuric acid bath to
produce a clear, uniform anodized surface finish of not less than 1000 mg/ft2 (1.08 mg/cm2) in accordance with military
standard specification (mil. spec.) 8625F, Type II, Class 1 (Reference 3). This anodic surface coating shall not be dyed or
pigmented. Following anodization, the surfaces shall be sealed by immersion in boiling deionized water for 15 minutes.
40 CFR 50, Appendix L.
Section 7.4
Performance Specifications Sections 7.4.1 through 7.4.19
40 CFR 50, Appendix L.
Section 7.4.2
Proper operation of the impactor requires that specific air velocities be maintained through the device. Therefore, the
sample air flow rate through the inlet, downtube, impactor, and filter shall be 16.67 L/min (1.000 nrYhour) ±5%, measured
as actual volumetric flow rate at the temperature and pressure of the sample air entering the impactor.
40 CFR 50, Appendix L.
Section 7.4.3
Sample airflow rate control system. The sampler shall have a sample air flow rate control system which shall be capable of
providing a sample air volumetric flow rate within the specified range (sect.7.4.1) for the specified filter (section 6), at any
atmospheric conditions specified (section 7.4.7), at a filter pressure drop equal to that of a clean filter plus up to 75 cm water
column (55 mm Hg), and over the specified range of supply line voltage (section 7.4.15.1). This flow control system shall
allow for operator adjustment of the operational flow rate of the sampler over a range of at least ±10 percent of the flow rate
specified in section 7.4.1.
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Summary of Quality Assurance Requirements for tlie FM &5
TITLE
mmi
wRtrte
40 CFR 50, Appendix L.
Section 743
The sample flow rate shall be regulated such that for the specified filter (section 6), at any atmospheric conditions specified
(section 7.4.7), at a filter pressure drop equal to that of a clean filter plus up to 150 cm water column (112 mm Hg), and over
the specified range of supply line voltage (section 7.4.15.1), the flow rate is regulated as follows:
7.4.3.1 The volumetric flow rate, measured or averaged over intervals of not more than 5 minutes over a 24-hour period,
shall not vary more than ±5 percent from the specified 16.67 L/min flow rate over the entire sample period; and
7.4.3.2 The coefficient of variation (sample standard deviation divided by the average) of the flow rate, measured at
intervals of not more than 5 minutes over a 24-hour period, shall not greater than 4 percent.
40 CFR 50, Appendix L
Section 7.4 4
The sampler's sample air flow rate control system shall terminate sample collection and stop all sample flow for the
remainder of the sample period in the event that the sample flow rate deviates by more than 10 percent from the nominal
(or cumulative average) sampler flow rate specified in section 7.4.1 for more than 60 seconds. However, this sampler cut-off
provision shall not apply during periods when the sampler is inoperative due to a temporary power interruption and the
elapsed time of the inoperative period will not be included in the total sample time measured and reported by the sampler
(see section 7.4.13).
40 CFR 50, Appendix L
Section 7 4.5
7.4.5.1 The sampler shall provide a means to measure and indicate the instantaneous sample air flow rate, which shall be
measured as volumetric flow rate at the temperature and pressure of the sample air entering the impact or, with an
accuracy of ±2 percent. The sampler shall also provide a simple means by which the sampler operator can manually start
the sample flow temporarily during non-sampling modes of operation, for the purpose of checking the sample flow rate or
the flow rate measurement system.
7.4.5.2 During each sample period, the sampler's flow rate measurement system shall automatically monitor the sample
volumetric flow rate, obtaining flow rate or average flow rate measurements at intervals of not greater than 5 minutes.
Using these interval flow rate measurements, the sampler shall determine or calculate the following flow-related
parameters, scaled in the specified engineering units: a) the instantaneous or interval-average flow rate, in L/min; b) the
value of the average sample flow rate for the sample period, in L/min; c) the value of the coefficient of variation (sample
standard deviation divided by the average) of the sample flow rate for the sample period, in percent; d) any time during the
sample period in which the sample flow rate measured exceeds a range of ±5% of the average flow rate for the sample
period for more than 5 minutes, in which case a warning flag indicator shall be set; and e) the value of the integrated total
sample volume for the sample period, in m\ Determination or calculation of these values shall properly exclude periods
when the sampler is inoperative due to temporary interruption of electrical power (see section 7.4.13). These parameters
shall be accessible to the sampler operator as specified in Table L-l, section 7.4.19.
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Summary of Quality Assurance Requirements for tlte FM &5
TITLE
40 CFR 50, Appendix L.
Section 7.4 6
7.4.6.1 External leakage: The sampler shall include components, accessory hardware, operator interface controls, a written
procedure in the associated Operation/Instruction Manual (section 7.4.18), and all other necessary functional capability to
permit and facilitate the sampler operator to conveniently carry out a leak test of the sampler at a field monitoring site
without additional equipment. The suggested technique for this leak test is as follows: The operator (1) removes the
sampler inlet and installs the flow rate measurement adaptor supplied with the sampler; see section 7.3.6), (2) closes the
valve on the flow rate measurement adaptor and uses the sampler air pump to draw a partial vacuum in the sampler,
including (at least) the impactor, filter holder assembly (filter in place), flow measurement device, and interconnections
between these devices, of at least 112 mm Hg (150 cm water column), (3) plugs the flow system downstream of these
components to isolate the components under vacuum from the pump, such as with a built-in valve, (4) stops the pump, (5)
measures the trapped vacuum in the sampler with a built-in pressure measuring device, and (6) measures the vacuum in
the sampler with the built-in pressure measuring device again at a later time at least 10 minutes after the first pressure
measurement, and (7) removes the plugs and restores the sampler to the normal operating configuration. The associated
leak test procedure shall require that for successful passage of this test, the difference between the two pressure
measurements shall not be greater than either (1) 10 mm Hg or (2) an alternative number of mm of Hg specified for the
sampler by the manufacturer—based on the actual internal volume of the sampler—that indicates a leak of less than 80
mL/min. The specific proposed external leak test procedure, or particularly a proposed alternative leak test technique such
as may be required for samplers whose design or configuration would make the suggested technique impractical, may be
described and submitted for specific individual acceptability either as part of a reference or equivalent method application
under part 53 of this Chapter or in writing in advance of such application.
7.4.6.2 Internal (filter bypass) leakage: The sampler shall include components, accessory hardware, operator interface
controls, a written procedure in the Operation/Instruction Manual, and all other necessary functional capability to permit
and facilitate the sampler operator to conveniently carry out a test for internal filter bypass leakage in the sampler at a field
monitoring site without additional equipment. The suggested technique for this leak test is as follows: The operator (1)
carries out an external leak test as provided under the paragraph 7.4.6.1 which indicates successful passage of the
prescribed external leak test, (2) installs a flow-impervious membrane material in the filter cassette, either with or without a
filter, as appropriate, which effectively prevents air flow through the filter holder, (3) uses the sampler air pump to draw a
partial vacuum in the sampler, downstream of the filter holder assembly, of at least 112 mm Hg (150 cm water column), (4)
plugs the flow system downstream of the filter holder to isolate the components under vacuum from the pump, such as with
a built-in valve, (5) stops the pump, (6) measures the trapped vacuum in the sampler with a built-in pressure measuring
device, (7) measures the vacuum in the sampler with the built-in pressure measuring device again at a later time at least 10
minutes after the first pressure measurement, and (8) removes the membrane and plugs and restores the sampler to the
normal operating configuration. The associated leak test procedure shall require that for successful passage of this test, the
difference between the two pressure measurements shall not be greater than either (1) 10 mm Hg or (2) an alternative
number of mm of Hg specified for the sampler by the manufacturer—based on the actual internal volume of the portion of
the sampler under vacuum—that indicates a leak of less than 80 mL/min. The specific proposed internal leak test
procedure, or particularly a proposed alternative internal leak test technique such as may be required for samplers whose
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Summary of Quality Assurance Requirements Cor the FM 2*5 Sampler
TITLE
F8&EKAL
40 CFR 50, Appendix L.
Section 7 4.7
The sampler is required to operate properly and meet all requirements specified herein over the following operational
ranges:
7.4.7.1 Ambient temperature: -30 to +45 degrees Celsius (Note: Although for practical reasons, the temperature range
over which samplers are required to be tested under part 53 of this chapter is -20 to +40 degrees Celsius, the sampler
should be designed to operate properly over this wider temperature range.)
7.4.7.2 Ambient relative humidity:0 to 100 percent;
7.4.7.3 Barometric pressure range:600 to 800 mm Hg.
40 CFR 50, Appendix L.
Section 7 4.8
The sampler shall have capability to measure the temperature of the ambient air surrounding the sampler over the range of
- 20 to +40 ° C, with a resolution of 0.1 C degrees and accuracy of ±2.0 C degrees (referenced to National Weather Service
(NWS) requirements; see part 53, subpart E), with or without maximum solar insolation. This ambient temperature
measurement shall be updated at least every 5 minutes during both sampling and standby (non-sampling) modes of
operation. A visual indication of the current (most recent) value of the ambient temperature measurement shall be
available to the sampler operator during both sampling and standby (non-sampling) modes of operation, as specified in
Table L-l. This ambient temperature measurement shall be used for the purpose of monitoring filter temperature
deviation from ambient temperature, as required by section 7.4.11.4, and may be used for purposes of effecting filter
temperature control (section 7.4.10) or computation of volumetric flow rate (sections 7.4.1 to 7.4.5). Following the end of
each sample period, the sampler shall report the maximum, minimum, and average temperature for the sample period, as
specified in Table L-l.
40 CFR 50, Appendix L.
Section 7.4.9
The sampler shall have capability to measure the barometric pressure of the air surrounding the sampler over a range of
600 to 800 mm Hg (referenced to National Weather Service (NWS) requirements; see part 53, subpart E). (The barometric
pressure of the air entering the impactor when sampling will be assumed to be the same as the barometric pressure of the
air surrounding the sampler.) This barometric pressure measurement shall have a resolution of 5 mm Hg and an accuracy
of ±10 mm Hg and shall be updated at least every 5 minutes. A visual indication of the value of the current (most recent)
barometric pressure measurement shall be available to the sampler operator during both sampling and standby (non-
sampling) modes of operation, as specified in Table L-l. This barometric pressure measurement may be used for purposes
of computation of volumetric flow rate (sections 7.4.1 to 7.4.5), if appropriate. Following the end of a sample period, the
sampler shall report the maximum, minimum, and average barometric pressure for the sample period, as specified in Table
L-l.
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Summary of Quality Assurance Requirements for th« FM 2,5 Sampler
mmmi
Filter
40 CFR 50, Appendix L.
Section 7 4.10
(sampling and post-sampling). The sampler shall provide a means to limit the temperature rise of the sample filter, from
insolation and other sources, to no more 3°C above the temperature of the ambient air surrounding the sampler, during
both sampling and post-sampling periods of operation. The post-sampling period is the non-sampling period between the
end of the active sampling period and the time of retrieval of the sample filter by the sampler operator.
40 CFR 50, Appendix L.
Section 7.4.11
The sampler shall have the capability to monitor the sample filter temperature via a temperature sensor located within 1 cm
of the center of the filter downstream of the filter and to provide a visual indication of the filter temperature to the operator,
as specified in Table L-l. The sampler shall also provide a warning flag indicator following any occurrence in which the
filter temperature exceeds the ambient temperature by more than 3°C for more than 10 consecutive minutes during either
the sampling or post-sampling periods of operation, as specified in Table L-l. It is further recommended (not required) that
the sampler be capable of recording the maximum differential between the measured filter temperature and the ambient
temperature and its time and date of occurrence during both sampling and post-sampling (non-sampling) modes of
operation and providing that data to the sampler operator following the end of the sample period, as suggested in Tab. L-l.
40 CFR 50, Appendix L
Section 7.4 12
The sampler shall have a programmable real-time clock timing/control system that (1) is capable of maintaining local time
and date, including year, month, day-of-month, hour, minute, and second to an accuracy of ±1.0 minute per month; (2)
provides a visual indication of the current system time, including year, month, day-of-month, hour, and minute, updated at
least each minute, for operator verification; (3) provides appropriate operator controls for setting the correct local time and
date; and (4) is capable of starting the sample collection period and sample air flow at a specific, operator-settable time and
date, and stopping the sample air flow and terminating the sampler collection period 24 hours (1440 minutes) later, or at a
specific, operator-settable time and date. These start and stop times shall be readily setable by the sampler operator to
within ±1.0 minute. The system shall provide a visual indication of the current start and stop time settings, readable to ±1.0
minute, for verification by the operator, and the start and stop times shall also be available via the data output port, as
specified in Table L-l. Upon execution of a programmed sample period start, the sampler shall automatically reset all
sample period information and warning indications pertaining to a previous sample period. Refer also to section 7.4.15.4
regarding retention of current date and time and programmed start and stop times during a temporary electrical power
interruption.
40 CFR 50, Appendix L.
Section 7.4.13
•m*.tm*m. _._„„.: •< *.,. : :,,M
The sampler shall be capable of determining the elapsed sample collection time for each PM2, sample, accurate to within
±1.0 minute, measured as the time between the start of the sampling period (sec. 7.4.12) and the termination of the sample
period (sec. 7.4.12 or sec. 7.4.4). This elapsed sample time shall not include periods when the sampler is inoperative due to a
temporary interruption of electrical power (section 7.4.15.4). In the event that the elapsed sample time determined for the
sample period is not within the range specified for the required sample period in section 3.3, the sampler shall set a warning
flag indicator. The date and time of the start of the sample period, the value of the elapsed sample time for the sample
period, and the flag indicator status shall be available to the sampler operator following the end of the sample period, as
specified in Table L-l.
8
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Summary 0f Quality Assurance Requirements fr>r the FM ZJ5 Sampler
F8D8KAL
40 CFR 50, Appendix L.
Section 7.4 14
The sampler shall have an outdoor enclosure (or enclosures) suitable to protect the filter and other non-weatherproof
components of the sampler from precipitation, wind, dust, extremes of temperature and humidity; to help maintain
temperature control of the filter; and to provide reasonable security for sampler components and settings.
40 CFR 50, Appendix L.
Section 7 4.15
7.4.15.1 The sampler shall be operable and function as specified herein when operated on an electrical power supply voltage
of 105 to 125 volts ac (RMS) at a frequency of 59 to 61 Hz. Optional operation as specified at additional power supply
voltages and/or frequencies shall not be precluded by this requirement.
7.4.15.2 The design and construction of the sampler shall comply with all applicable National Electrical Code and
Underwriters Laboratories electrical safety requirements.
40 CFR 50, Appendix L.
Section 7415
The design of all electrical and electronic controls shall be such as to provide reasonable resistance to interference or
malfunction from ordinary or typical levels of stray electro-magnetic fields (EMF) as may be found at various monitoring
sites and from typical levels of electrical transients or electronic noise as may often or occasionally be present on various
electrical power lines.
In the event of temporary loss of electrical supply power to the sampler, the sampler shall not be required to sample or
provide other specified functions during such loss of power, except that the internal clock/timer system shall maintain its
local time and date setting within ±1 minute per week, and the sampler shall retain all other time and programmable
settings and all data required to be available to the sampler operator following each sample period for at least 7 days
without electrical supply power. When electrical power is absent at the operator-set time for starting a sample period or is
interrupted during a sample period, the sampler shall automatically start or resume sampling when electrical power is
restored, if such restoration of power occurs before the operator-set stop time for the sample period.
The sampler shall have the capability to record and retain a record of the year, month, day-of-month, hour, and minute of
the start of each power interruption of more than 1 minute duration, up to 10 such power interruptions per sample period.
(More than 10 such power interruptions shall invalidate the sample, except where an exceedance is measured—see section
3.3.) The sampler shall provide for these power interruption data to be available to the sampler operator following the end
of the sample period, as specified in Table L-l.
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Summary 0f Quality Assurance Re
-------
Sum mao af Qaality Assurance Requirements for the FM 2*5 Sampler
TITLE
CFR SECTIONS
%RAL
40 CFR 50, Appendix L
Section 8
Analytical balance. The analytical balance used to weigh filters must be suitable for weighing the type and size of filters
specified (section 6) and have a readability of ± 1 ug. The balance shall be calibrated as specified by the
manufacturer at installation and recalibrated immediately prior to each weighing session, but not less often than once per
year.
Filter conditioning/equilibration. All filters used are to be conditioned or equilibrated immediately before both the pre- and
post-sampling weighings as specified below. See Reference 2 for additional guidance.
8.2.1 Mean temperature: 20 - 23 °C
8.2.2 Temperature control: ±2 "Cover 24 hours
8.2.3 Mean humidity:30 - 40 % relative humidity.
8.2.4 Humidity control: ±5 RH percent over 24 hours
8.2.5 Conditioning time: not less than 24 hours
8.3 Weighing procedure.
8.3.1 New filters should be placed in the conditioning environment immediately upon arrival and stored there until the pre-
sampling weighing. See Reference 2 for additional guidance.
8.3.2 The analytical balance shall be located in the same environment in which the filters are conditioned or equilibrated,
such that the filters can be weighed immediately following the conditioning period without intermediate or transient
exposure to nonequilibration conditions.
8.3.3 Filters must be equilibrated at the same conditions before both the pre- and post-sampling weighings.
8.3.4 Both the pre- and post-sampling weighings should be carried out by the same analyst on the same analytical balance,
using an effective technique to neutralize static charges on filter.
8.3.5 The pre-sampling (tare) weighing shall be within 30 days of the sampling period.
8.3.6 The post-sampling equilibration and weighing shall be completed within 240 hours (10 days) after the end of the
sample period.
8.3.7 New blank filters shall be weighed along with the pre-sampling (tare) weighing of each lot of PM25 filters. These blank
filters shall be transported to the sampling site, installed in the sampler, retrieved from the sampler without sampling, and
reweighed as a quality control check.
11
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Summary of Quality Assurance Requirements for the FM
TITLE
mm&
40 CFR 50, Appendix L.
Section 9.1
9.1.1 Multipoint calibration and single-point verification of the sampler's flow rate measurement device must be performed
periodically to establish traceability of subsequent flow measurements to a flow rate standard.
9.1.2 An authoritative flow rate standard shall be used for calibrating or verifying the sampler's flow rate measurement
device with an accuracy of ±2 percent. The flow rate standard shall be a separate stand-alone device designed to connect to
the flow rate measurement adapter, drawing L-30. This flow rate standard must have its own certification and be traceable
to National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) primary standards for volume or flow rate. If adjustments to the
sampler's flow calibration are to be made in conjunction with an audit of the sampler, such adjustments shall be made
following the audit. See Reference 2 for additional guidance.
9.1.3 The sampler's flow rate measurement device shall be re-calibrated after electro-mechanical maintenance or transport
of the sampler.
12
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Summary <*f Quality Assurance Requirements for the FM &5 Sampler
TITLE
F8D88AL
40 CFR 50, Appendix L.
Section 9.2
9.2.1 PM 2.5 samplers may employ various types of flow control and flow measurement devices. The specific procedure used
for calibration or verification of the flow rate measurement device will vary depending on the type of flow rate controller
and flow rate measurement employed. Calibration shall be in terms of actual ambient volumetric flow rates (Qa). The
generic procedure given here serves to illustrate the general steps involved in the calibration of a PM2, sampler. The
sampler operation/instruction manual (required under section 7.4.18) and the Quality Assurance Handbook (Reference 2)
provide more specific and detailed guidance for calibration.
9.2.2 The flow rate standard used for flow rate calibration shall have its own certification and be traceable to National
Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) primary standards for volume or flow rate. A calibration relationship for the
flow rate standard (e.g., an equation, curve, or family of curves) shall be established that is accurate to within 2 percent over
the expected range of ambient temperatures and pressures at which the flow rate standard may be used. The flow rate
standard must be re-calibrated or re-verified at least annually.
9.2.3 The sampler flow rate measurement device shall be calibrated or verified by removing the sampler inlet and
connecting the flow rate standard to the sampler in accordance with the operation/instruction manual, such that the flow
rate standard accurately measures the sampler's flow rate. The sampler operator shall verify that no leaks exist between
flow rate standard and sampler.
9.2.4 The calibration relationship between the flow rate (in actual L/min) indicated by the flow rate standard and by the
sampler's flow rate measurement device shall be established or verified in accordance with the sampler
operation/instruction manual. Temperature and pressure corrections to the flow rate indicated by the flow rate standard
may be required for certain types of flow rate standards. Calibration of the sampler's flow rate measurement device shall
consist of at least five separate flow rate measurements (multipoint calibration) evenly spaced within the range of-10% to
+10% of the sampler's operational flow rate (see section 7.4.1).
9.2.5 If during a flow rate verification the reading of the sampler's flow rate indicator or measurement device differs by ±4
percent or more from the flow rate measured by the flow rate standard, a new multipoint calibration shall be performed
and the flow rate verification must then be repeated.
9.2.6 Following the calibration or verification, the flow rate standard shall be removed from the sampler and the sampler
inlet shall be re-installed. Then the sampler's normal operating flow rate (in L/min) shall be determined with a clean filter in
place. If the sampler flow rate differs by ±2 percent or more from the required sampler flow rate, the sampler flow rate must
be adjusted to the required flow rate (see section 7.4.1).
13
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Summary ef Quality Assurance Requirements f#r;
;
""'-." * 5 1
40 CFR 50, Appendix L.
Section 10
The sampler shall be setup, calibrated, and operated in accordance with the specific, detailed guidance provided in the
specific sampler's operation or instruction manual and in accordance with a specific quality assurance program developed
and established by the user, based on applicable supplementary guidance provided in Reference 2.
Each new filter shall be inspected for correct type and size and for pinhoks, particles, and other imperfections. A filter
information record shall be established for, and an identification number assigned to, each filter.
Each filter shall be equilibrated in the conditioning environment in accordance with the requirements specified in section
8.2
Following equilibration, each filter shall be weighed in accordance with the requirements specified in section 8 and the
presampling weight recorded with the filter identification number.
Following equilibration, each filter shall be weighed in accordance with the requirements specified in section 8 and the
presampiing weight recorded with the filter identification number.
The sampler shall be checked and prepared for sample collection in accordance with instructions provided in the sampler
operation or instruction manual and with the specific quality assurance program established for the sampler by the user.
The sampler's timer shall be set to start the sample collection at the beginning of the desired sample period and stop the
sample collection 24 hours later.
Information related to the sample collection (site location or identification number, sample date, filter identification
number, and sampler model and serial number) shall be recorded and, if appropriate, entered into the sampler.
The sampler shall be allowed to collect the PM2.5 sample during the set 24-hour time period.
Within 96 hours of the end of the sample collection period, the filter, while still contained in the filter cassette, shall be
carefully removed from the sampler, following the procedure provided in the sampler operation or instruction manual and
the quality assurance program, and placed in a protective container. The protective container shall hold the filter cassette
securely. The cover shall not come in contact with the filter's surfaces. The protective container shall be made of metal and
contain no loose material that could be transferred to the filter.
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Summary M.»- . SJJ
"Class II equivalent method" means an equivalent method for PM 2.s that utilizes a PM, 5 sampler in which an integrated
PM2 j sample is obtained from the atmosphere by filtration and subjected to a subsequent filter equilibration process
followed by a gravimetric mass determination, but which is not a Class I equivalent method because of substantial
deviations from the design specifications of the sampler specified for reference methods in Appendix L of part 50 of this
chapter, as determined by the EPA.
15
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Summary «rf Quality Assu ranee Requirements far the PM &5 Sampler \
cm me Tmm
mmmi
40 CFR 53.1(s)
"Class III equivalent method" means an equivalent method for PM 2.5 that has been determined by the EPA not to be a
Class I or Class II equivalent method. This fourth type of PM 25 method includes alternative equivalent method samplers
and continuous analyzers, based on designs and measurement principles different from those specified for reference
methods (e.g., a means for estimating aerosol mass concentration other than by conventional integrated filtration followed
by equilibration and gravimetric analysis). These samplers (or monitors) are those deemed to be substantially different
from reference method sampler and may use components and methods other than those specified for reference method
samplers. Class III candidate samplers or analyzers require full equivalency testing and must meet all requirements
specified in subpart F of this chapter.
40 CFR 53.3(5)
UHHmu^A****^ .-V.V.
A reference method for measuring PM ,., must be a manual method that meets the requirements specified in Appendix L of
part 50 of this chapter and must include a PM ,.s sampler that has been shown in accordance with this part to meet the
applicable requirements specified in Subpart E of this part. Further, reference method samplers must be manufactured in
an ISO 9001-registered facility or a facility operated according to an EPA-approved alternative quality system, as set forth
in §53.51 (Subpart E) of this part, and the Product Manufacturing Checklist set forth in subpart E of this part must be
completed by an ISO 9001-certified auditor and submitted annually to retain a PM 25 reference method designation. In
addition, all designated reference methods for PM2 5 must meet requirements for network operating performance
determined annually as set forth in section 6 of Appendix A of part 58 of this chapter.
or
40 CFR 53.4
Section 4 through Section 16
40 CFR 53 Subpart C
Section 53 34
Augmentation of pollutant concentrations is not permitted, hence appropriate test sites must be selected to provide PM25
concentrations and PM2 5 /PM ,„ ratios (if applicable) in the specified ranges.(i) Where only one test site is required, as
specified in Table C-4, the site need only meet the PM2 5 ambient concentration levels required by §53.34(c)(3).(ii) Where
two sites are required, as specified in Table C-4, each site must be selected to provide the ambient concentration levels
required by §53.34(c)(3). In addition, one site must be selected such that all acceptable test sample sets, as defined in
§53.34(c)(3), have a PM2 5 /PM10 ratio of more than 0.75; the other site must be selected such that all acceptable test sample
sets, as defined in §53.34(c)(3), have a PM25/PM10 ratio of less than 0.40. At least two reference method PM10 samplers shall
be collocated with the candidate and reference method PM2 5 samplers and operated simultaneously with the other samplers
at each test site to measure concurrent ambient concentrations of PMIO to determine the PM2, /PM,0 ratio for each sample
set. The PM2 5 /PMIO ratio for each sample set shall be the average of the PM2 5 concentration, as determined in §53.34(c)(l),
divided by the average PM,0 concentration, as measured by the PM10 samplers. The tests at the two sites may be conducted
in different calendar seasons, if appropriate, to provide PM25 concentrations and PM25 /PMto ratios in the specified ranges.
16
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Summary 0f Quality Assurance Requirements for Ilie I'M 23 Sampler
TITLE
FEDEML MASTER
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40 CFR 53 Subpart C
Section 53.34(a)
Test procedure for methods for PM10 and PM2 s. (a) Set up three reference method samplers collocated with three candidate
method samplers or analyzers at each of the number of test sites specified in Table C-4. At each site, obtain as many sets of
simultaneous PM]0 or PM2 5 measurements as necessary (see 53.34(c)(3)), each set consisting of three reference method and
three candidate method measurements, all obtained simultaneously. For PM2.5 Class II candidate methods, at least two
collocated PM]0 reference method samplers are also required to obtain PM2 5/PM,0 ratios for each sample set. Candidate
PM10 method measurements shall be 24-hour integrated measurements; PM2 5 measurements may be either 24- or 48-hour
integrated measurements. All collocated measurements in a sample set must cover the same 24- or 48-hour time period.
For samplers, retrieve the samples promptly after sample collection and analyze each sample according to the reference
method or candidate method, as appropriate, and determine the PM,0 or PM2, concentration in fig/m3. If the conditions of
§53.30(d)(4) apply, collect sample sets only with the three reference method samplers. Guidance for quality assurance
procedures for PM25 methods is found in Section 2.12 of the Quality Assurance Handbook.
17
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Siimximry of Quality Assurance Re^iitremeiits for S&eIlMi*5
-TITLE
40 CFR 53 Subpart E
Section 53.50
Samplers associated with candidate reference methods for PM2; shall be subject to the provisions, specifications, and test
procedures prescribed in Sections §53.51 through §53.56 of this Subpart Samplers associated with candidate Class I
equivalent method for PM2 5 shall be subject to the provisions, specifications, and test procedures prescribed in all sections
of this Subpart. Samplers associated with candidate Class II or Class III equivalent method for PM2.; shall be subject to the
provisions, specifications, and test procedures prescribed in all applicable sections of this Subpart, as specified in Subpart F
of this part. Section §53.51 pertains to test results and documentation required to demonstrate compliance of a candidate
method sampler with the design specifications set forth in Appendix L of part 50 of this Chapter. Test procedures
prescribed in Sections §53.52 through §53.56 of this Subpart pertain to performance tests required to demonstrate
compliance of a candidate method sampler with the performance specifications set forth in Appendix L of part 50 of this
Chapter, as well as additional requirements specified in this Subpart £. These latter test procedures shall be used to test the
performance of candidate samplers against the performance specifications and requirements specified in each procedure
and summarized in Table E-l of this Subpart. Test procedures prescribed in Section §53.57 of this Subpart do not apply to
candidate reference method samplers. These procedures apply primarily to candidate class I equivalent method samplers
for PMj s that have a sample air flow path configuration upstream of the sample filter that is modified from that specified
for the reference method sampler—as set forth in Drawings L-18 and L-24 of Appendix L to part 50 of this chapter—to
provide for sequential sample capability. The additional tests determine the adequacy of aerosol transport through any
altered components or supplemental devices that are used in a candidate sampler upstream of the filter to achieve the
sequential sample capability. These tests may also apply, with appropriate adaptation, if necessary, to candidate samplers
having minor deviations from the specified reference method sampler for purposes other than sequential operation. In
addition to the other test procedures in this subpart, these test procedures shall be used to further test the performance of
such equivalent method samplers against the performance specifications given in Table E-2 of this Subpart. Tests of a
candidate sampler for sample flow rate capacity and regulation, flow rate control, flow rate measurement accuracy,
ambient temperature and pressure measurement accuracy, filter temperature control during sampling, and correct
determination of elapsed sample time, average volumetric flow rate, and flow rate variation are all combined into a
comprehensive test procedure (§53.52) that is carried out over four 24-hour test periods under multiple test conditions.
Other performance parameters are tested individually with specific test procedures (§53.53 - §53.57).
(0 A 10-day field test of measurement precision is required for both reference and equivalent method samplers.
This test requires collocated operation of 3 candidate method samplers at a field test site. For candidate equivalent method
samplers, this test may be combined and carried out concurrently with the test for comparability to the reference method
specified under Subpart C (§53.34) of this part, which requires collocated operation of three reference method samplers and
three candidate equivalent method samplers.
(g) All tests and collection of test data shall be in accordance with the requirements of Reference 1, section 4.10.5
(ISO 9001) and Reference 2, Part B, section 3.3.1, paragraphs 1 and 2 and Part C, section 4.6 (ANSI/ASQC E4). All test
data and other documentation obtained specifically from or pertinent to these tests shall be identified, dated, signed by the
analyst performing the test, and submitted to EPA in accordance with subpart A of this part.
18
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Summary 0f Quality Assu i ancc Requirements for tlie FM &5 Sampler j
j
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40CFR58 l(s)
40CFR58 l(jj)
40CFR58.1(kk)
40CFR58.1(mm)
40CFR58.1(nn)
40CFR58.1(qq)
40CFR58.1(tt)
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Traceable means that a local standard has been compared and certified, either directly or IV s not more than one
intermediate standard, to a National Institute of Standards an dTechnology (NIST) - certified primary standard such as a
NIST-Traceable Reference Material (NTRM) or a NIST-Certified Gas Manufacturer's Internal Standard (GMIS).
Means the most recent area as designated by the US Office of Management and Budget and population figures from the
Bureau of the Census. The Department of Commerce provides "that within metropolitan complexes of 1 million or more
population, separate component areas are defined if specific criteria are met. Such areas are designated primary
metropolitan statistical areas (PMSA) and any area containing PMSAs is designated colsolidated metropopitan statistical
area (CMSA)
SLAMS sites which are the basic component sites of the PM 2.5 SLAMS regulatory network. Population oriented core sites
are intended to reflect community-wide exposure to air pollution.
Means the most recent area as designated by the US Office of Management and Budget and population figures from the
Bureau of the Census. The Department of Commerce defines a metropolitan area as " one of a large population nucleus,
together with adjacent communities which have a high degree of economic and social integration with that nucleus."
Means a contiguous geographic area with established, well defined boundaries, such as a metropolitan statistical area,
county or State, having a common area that is used for planning monitoring locations for PM 2.5. MPSa may cross State
boundaries, such as the Philadelphia PA-NJ MSA and be further subdivided into spatial averaging zones. MPAs are
generally oriented toward areas with populations greater than 250,000 but for convenience, those portions of a State that
are not part of MSAs can be considered as a single MPA. MPAs must be defined, where applicable, in a State monitoring
plan.
Population oriented monitoring or sites applies to residential areas, commercial areas, recreational areas, industrial areas
where workers from more than one company are located, and other areas where a substantial number of people may spend
a significant fraction of their day.
Means an area with established well defined boundaries, such as a county or census block, within a MPA that has relatively
uniform concentrations of PM 2.5 monitors within a SAZ that meet certain requirements set forth in Appendix D of this
part are used to compare with the primary annual PM 2.5 NAAQS using a spatial averaging procedure specified in
Appendix K of 40 CFR Part 50. A SAZ may have one or more monitors. An MPA must have at least one SAZ and may
have several SAZs
19
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Smitmarf 0f Qaality Assurance Requirements for f Ire FM 2.5 Sampler * j
TITLE
Operating
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-------
Summary of Quality Assurance Requirements for teFM 2*5 Sampler
TITLE
•T
40 CFR 58.26
The State shall submit a summary to the appropriate Regional Office or Administrator which details proposed changes to
the PM monitoring plan and to be in accordance with the annual network review requirements.
40 CFR 58, Appendix A
Section 2
Details the requirements of a quality system.
40 CFR 58, Appendix A
Section 2.4
Agencies required to participate.
40 CFR 58, Appendix A
Section 2 5
Systems audits of the ambient air monitoring programs of agencies operating SLAMS shall be conducted at least every
three years by the appropriate EPA Regional office. Quality assuranceand control programs must follow the requirements
established by ANSI E-4.
40 CFR 58, Appendix A
Section 3.0.2
A "reporting organization" is defined as a State, subordinate organization within a State, or other organization that is
responsible for a set of stations that monitors the same pollutant and for which precision or accuracy assessments can be
pooled. States must define one or more reporting organizations for each pollutant such that each monitoring station in the
State SLAMS network is included in one, and only one, reporting organization. Each reporting organization shall be
defined such that precision or accuracy among all stations in the organization can be expected to be reasonably
homogeneous, as a result of common factors. Common factors that should be considered by States in defining reporting
organizations include: (1) operation by a common team of field operators; (2) common calibration facilities; and (3) support
by a common laboratory or headquarters. Where there is uncertainty in defining the reporting organizations or in
assigning specific sites to reporting organizations, States shall consult with the appropriate EPA Regional Office for
guidance. All definitions of reporting organizations shall be subject to final approval by the appropriate EPA Regional
Office.
21
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mis
Summary of Quality Assurance R^uirenie»ts for tfieFM 23 Sampler
&BDB8AL
40 CFR 58, Appendix A
Section 3.1
3.1 Precision of Automated Methods.
3.1.1 Methods for SO2, NO2,03 and CO. A one-point precision check must be performed at least once every two weeks on
each automated analyzer used to measure SO2, NO2,03 and CO. The precision check is made by challenging the analyzer
with a gas of known concentration (effective concentration for open path analyzers) between 0.08 and 0.10 ppm for SO2,
NO2, and O3 analyzers, and between 8 and 10 ppm for CO analyzers.
3.1.2 Methods for participate matter. A one-point precision check must be performed at least once every two weeks on
each automated analyzer used to measure PM10 and PMj 5. The precision check is made by checking the operational flow
rate of the analyzer. If a precision flow rate check is made in conjunction with a flow rate adjustment, it must be made
prior to such flow rate adjustment. Randomization of the precision check with respect to time of day, day of week, and
routine service and adjustments is encouraged where possible.
3.1.2.1 Standard procedure: Use a flow rate transfer standard as described in section 2.3.3 to check the analyzer's normal
flow rate. Care should be used in selecting and using the flow rate measurement device such that it does not alter the
normal operating flow rate of the analyzer. Report the actual analyzer flow rate measured by the transfer standard and the
corresponding flow rate measured, indicated, or assumed by the analyzer.
40 CFR 58, Appendix A
Section 3.1.22
Alternative procedure: It is permissible to obtain the precision check flow rate data from the analyzer's internal flow meter
without the use of an external flow rate transfer standard, provided that (1) the flow meter is audited with an external flow
rate transfer standard at least every 6 months, (2) records of at least the 3 most recent flow audits of the instrument's
internal flow meter over at least several weeks confirm that the flow meter is stable, verifiable and accurate to ±4%, and (3)
the instrument and flow meter give no indication of improper operation. With suitable communication capability, the
precision check may thus be carried out remotely. For this procedure, report the set-point flow rate as the "actual flow
rate" along with the flow rate measured or indicated by the analyzer flow meter.
40 CFR 58, Appendix A
Section 3.2
3.2.2 Methods for participate matter. Each calendar quarter, audit the flow rate of each SLAMS PM25 analyzer and at
least 25 percent of the SLAMS PMi0 analyzers such that each PM]0 analyzer is audited at least once per year. If there are
fewer than four PM10 analyzers within a reporting organization, randomly re-audit one or more analyzers so that at least
one analyzer is audited each calendar quarter. Where possible, EPA strongly encourages more frequent auditing, up to an
audit frequency of once per quarter for each SLAMS analyzer. The audit is made by measuring the analyzer's normal
operating flow rate, using a flow rate transfer standard as described in section 2.3.3. The flow rate standard used for
auditing must not be the same flow rate standard used to calibrate the analyzer. However, both the calibration standard
and the audit standard may be referenced to the same primary flow rate or volume standard. Great care must be used in
auditing the flow rate to be certain that the flow measurement device does not alter the normal operating flow rate of the
analyzer. Report the audit (actual) flow rate and the corresponding flow rate indicated or assumed by the sampler. The
percent differences between these flow rates are used to calculate accuracy as described in section 5.4.1.
22
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Summary of Quality Assurance Requirements for ffte FM 24
TITLE
mm&L
40 CFR 58, Appendix A
Section 3 3
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3.3 Precision of Manual Methods. For each network of manual methods other than for PM2 5, select one or more monitoring
sites within the reporting organization for duplicate, collocated sampling as follows: for 1 to 5 sites, select 1 site; for 6 to 20
sites, select 2 sites; and for over 20 sites, select 3 sites. For each network of manual methods for PM2 5, select one or more
monitoring sites within the reporting organization for duplicate, collocated sampling as follows: for 1 to 10 sites, select 1 site;
for 11 to 20 sites, select 2 sites; and for over 20 sites, select 3 sites. Where possible, additional collocated sampling is
encouraged. For purposes of precision assessment, networks for measuring TSP, PM10, and PM25 shall be considered
separately from one another. Sites having annual mean particulate matter concentrations among the highest 25 percent of
the annual mean concentrations for all the sites in the network must be selected or, if such sites are impractical, alternative
sites approved by the Regional Administrator may be selected In determining the number of collocated sites required for
PM2 5, monitoring networks for visibility should not be treated independently from networks for particulate matter, as the
separate networks may share one or more common samplers. However, for class I visibility areas, EPA will accept visibility
aerosol mass measurement in lieu of a PM25 measurement if the latter measurement is unavailable. The two collocated
samplers must be within 4 meters of each other, and particulate matter samplers must be at least 2 meters apart to preclude
airflow interference. Calibration, sampling, and analysis must be the same for both collocated samplers and the same as for
all other samplers in the network. For each pair of collocated samplers, designate one sampler as the primary sampler
whose samples will be used to report air quality for the site, and designate the other as the duplicate sampler. The paired
samplers must each have the same designation number. Each duplicate sampler must be operated concurrently with its
associated routine sampler at least once per week. The operation schedule should be selected so that the sampling days are
distributed evenly over the year and over the seven days of the week. The every-6-day schedule used by many monitoring
agencies is recommended. Report the measurements from both samplers at each collocated sampling site, including
measurements falling below the limits specified in 5.3.1. The percent differences in measured concentration (ug/mj) between
the two collocated samplers are used to calculate precision as described in section 5.3.
40 CFR 58, Appendix A
Section 3.4.1
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The accuracy of manual sampling methods is assessed by auditing a portion of the measurement process. For particulate
matter methods, the flow rate during sample collection is audited. For SO2 and NO2 methods, the analytical measurement is
audited. For Pb methods, the flow rate and analytical measurement are audited. 3.4.1 Methods for PM2, and PM10
Each calendar quarter, audit the flow rate of each PM2, sampler and audit at least 25 percent of the PM10 samplers such
that each PM10 sampler is audited at least once per year. Audit each PM2, sampler every quarter.
23
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Summary of Quality Assurance R^uiretneitts for Ifee FM 3,5 Sampler
cmmcnom
40 CFR 58, Appendix A
Section 5.3.1.1
Single Sampler Precision. At low concentrations, agreement between the measurements of collocated samplers, expressed as
percent differences, may be relatively poor. For this reason, collocated measurement pairs are selected for use in the
precision calculations only when both measurements are above the following limits: PM2,: 6 fig/m3.
,,»»»»» .^^.^....>x*x
40 CFR 58, Appendix A
Section 5
Sections 5.1 through 5.4
40 CFR 58, Appendix A
Section 6
^aa^aat ^ua**. » •„<«. v.
Annual Operational Evaluation ofPM2.s Methods.
AH PM2 5 monitoring methods or analyzers used in SLAMS shall be evaluated annually, as described in this section,
to quantitatively assess the quality of the SLAMS data being routinely produced. This evaluation is derived from the
results of collocated PM2, measurements made at each monitoring station at least 6 times per year and applies to both
automated and manual methods. Individual samplers or monitors are screened for bias and excessive imprecision.
Estimates of integrated measurement precision and accuracy, in the form of 95 percent probability limits, for each
designated PM2 5 method are determined for each reporting organization and on a national basis. Reporting organizations
are defined as in section 3 of this Appendix. The results of the latter evaluation shall be used to review instrument and
reporting organization performance. The absolute value of the 95 percent probability limits on a national basis for each
designated method must be within 15 percent for the method to maintain its reference or equivalent method designation.
40 CFR 58, Appendix A
Section 6.1
Operational field test audits. For each SLAMS PM2 5 monitor, collocate a PM2 5 reference method sampler, referred to as an
"audit sampler," and operate it simultaneously with the SLAMS monitor at least 6 times per year. These collocated audits
are required even for SLAMS PM2 5 monitors located at sites that have a collocated PM2 5 monitor as required under section
3.3 of this appendix, unless the collocated monitor is a PM25 reference method sampler and is a designated audit device as
described in the Section 2.12 of the Quality Assurance Handbook (Reference 7). The collocated audit sampler shall be
located between 2 and 4 meters from the SLAMS monitor, with its inlet at the same height above ground as the inlet of the
SLAMS monitor. Calibration and operation of the audit sampler and analysis of the audit sample filter shall be as specified
in the sampler's operation or instruction manual and in general accordance with the guidance provided in Section 2.12 of
Reference 7. Calibration and operation of the SLAMS monitor shall be the same as for its routine SLAMS operation, and it
shall not receive any special or non-scheduled service immediately prior to, or specifically associated with, the collocated
sample collection. The 6 or more collocated PM2, measurement pairs shall be obtained at approximately equal intervals
over the year, such as every other month, and shall be reported to the EPA as set forth in Section 4 of this Appendix for
other precision and accuracy test results. All collocated measurements shall be reported, even those which might be
considered invalid because of identified malfunctions or other problems occurring during the sample collection period.
Collocated measurements shall be reported to EPA only for methods and analyzers approved for use in SLAMS monitoring
under part 58 of this chapter. The EPA will calculate annual evaluations from the reported test measurements, as described
in sections 6.2 and 6.3.
24
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Summary of Qoality Assurance Requirements for the HSf 2.5- Sampler ^,v,s,,;;, Qs,,,, sits ,jj
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Section 6.2
40 CFR 58, Appendix A
Section 6.3. 2
40 CFR 58, Appendix A
Section 6.3.3
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Screening Test for Bias and Excessive Imprecision of Individual Monitors.
This section describes a simple test, based on the binomial distribution, that checks for gross bias or inadequate
precision in the field operation of either the SLAMS monitor or the audit sampler. However, since the audit sampler is a
reference method, the test results apply primarily to the SLAMS monitor. The test uses the collocated audit measurements
described in section 6.1, and may be used with 4 to 12 measurement pairs.
6.2.1 For the annual evaluation, the EPA will calculate the relative percent difference (RPD) for each measurement
pair obtained for the year as,
RPD = 100 x (C - Caadit)/[O.Sx(C+Caudil)]
where C = the concentration measured by the SLAMS monitor, and
Cao
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Su m man <*f Quality Assurance Reipiremeiits for fe FM 23 Sampler 1
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40 CFR 58, Appendix C
Section 2.2.1
40 CFR 58, Appendix C
Section 2 9
40 CFR 58, Appendix D
Section 1
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For purposes of showing compliance with the NAAQS for particulatc matter, the high volume sampler described in
Appendix B of part 50 of this chapter may be used in a SLAMS as long as the ambient concentration of particles measured
by the high volume sampler is below the PM,0 NAAQS. If the TSP sampler measures a single value whice is higher than the
PM10 24-hour standard or has an annual average greater than the PM ,„ annual standard, the high volume sampler
designated as a substitute PM10 sampler must be replaced with a PM,0 sampler. For the 24-hour standard, the TSP sampler
should be replaced with a PMIO sampler before the end of the calendar quarter following the quarter in which the
exceedance occured. For the annual standard, the PM10 sampler should be operating by June 30 of the year following the
exceedance. In order to maintain historical continuity of ambient particulate matter trends and patterns for PM,,, NAMS
that were previously TSP NAMS, the TSP high volume sampler must be operated concurrently with the PM10 sampler for a
one-year period beginning with the PM10 NAMS start up date. The operating schedule for the TSP sampler must be at least
once every six days regardless of the PM10 sampling frequency.
2.2.2 Substitute PM2 5 samplers. For purposes of showing compliance with the NAAQS for particulate matter, a reference
or equivalent method for PMIO as defined in 50.1 of this chapter, may be used in a SLAMS in lieu of a reference or
equivalent method for PMIO, as long as the ambient concentration of particles measured by the PM,0 sampler in a 24-hour
period is below 140 u.g/nr\
The addition of PM25 samplers will not be required based upon measurement of high concentrations of PM10 during the
first three years following the effective date of promulgation. Subsequently, if a PM10 sampler measures a single value
which is higher than 140 ug/m3, the PM10 sampler must be replaced with a PM2 , sampler before the end of the calendar
quarter following the quarter in which the high concentration occurred. In order to maintain historical continuity of
ambient particulate matter trends and patterns for PM2 , NAMS that were previously PM10 NAMS, the PM,0 sampler must
be operated concurrently with the PM2 5 sampler for a one-year period beginning with the date upon which the station
begins monitoring PM2 5 as a NAMS.
Details use of IMPROVE Samplers.
The network of stations which comprise SLAMS should be designed to meet a minimum of six basic monitoring objectives.
These basic monitoring objectives are: (1) to determine highest concentrations expected to occur in the area covered by the
network; (2) to determine representative concentrations in areas of high population density; (3) to determine the impact on
ambient pollution levels of significant sources or source categories; (4) to determine general background concentration
levels; (5) to determine the extent of Regional pollutant transport among populated areas; and in support of secondary
standards, (6) to determine the welfare-related impacts in more rural and remote areas (such as visibility impairment and
effects on vegetation).
26
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Sum maty of Quality Assurance Requirements for tfi« FM XS Sampler
TITLE
40 CFR 58, Appendix D
Section 2.8.03 to 2 8 0 6
Stations meeting one or more of the six basic monitoring objectives described in section 1 of this appendix must be classified
into one of the five scales of representativeness.
Microscale - This scale would typify areas such as downtown street canyons and traffic corridors where the general public would be
exposed to maximum concentrations from mobile sources. In some circumstances, the microscale is appropriate for participate stations;
core SLAMS on the microscale should, however, be limited to urban sites that are representative of long-term human exposure and of
many such microenvironments in the area. In general, microscale particulate matter sites should be located near inhabited buildings or
locations where the general public can be expected to be exposed to the concentration measured. Emissions from stationary sources such
as primary and secondary smelters, power plants, and other large industrial processes may, under certain plume conditions, likewise
result in high ground level concentrations at the microscale. In the latter case, the microscale-would represent an area impacted by the
plume with dimensions extending up to approximately 100 meters. Data collected at microscale stations provide information for evaluating
and developing "hot spot" control measures. Unless these sites are indicative of population-oriented monitoring, they may be more
appropriately classified as SPMs.
Middle Scale - Much of the measurement of short-term public exposure to particulate matter is on this scale and on the neighborhood
scale; core SLAMS especially should represent community-wide air pollution. People moving through downtown areas, or living near
major roadways, encounter particles that would be adequately characterized by measurements of this spatial scale. Thus, measurements
of this type would be appropriate for the evaluation of possible short-term public health effects of particulate matter pollution. This scale
also includes the characteristic concentrations for other areas with dimensions of a few hundred meters such as the parking lot and feeder
streets associated with shopping centers, stadia, and office buildings. In the case of PM10, unpaved or seldom swept parking lots associated
with these sources could be an important source in addition to the vehicular emissions themselves.
Neighborhood Scale - Measurements in this category would represent conditions throughout some reasonably homogeneous urban
subregion with dimensions of a few kilometers and of generally more regular shape than the middle scale. Homogeneity refers to the
particulate matter concentrations, as well as the land use and land surface characteristics. Much of the PM2 s exposures are expected to be
associated with this scale of measurement. In some cases, a location carefully chosen to provide neighborhood scale data would represent
not only the immediate neighborhood but also neighborhoods of the same type in other parts of the city. Stations of this kind provide good
information about trends and compliance with standards because they often represent conditions in areas where people commonly live
and work for periods comparable to those specified in the NAAQS. This category also may include industrial and commercial
neighborhoods especially in districts of diverse land use where residences are interspersed.
Neighborhood scale data could provide valuable information for developing, testing, and revising models that describe the larger-scale
concentration patterns, especially those models relying on spatially smoothed emission fields for inputs. The neighborhood scale
measurements could also be used for neighborhood comparisons within or between cities. This is the most likely scale of measurements to
meet the needs of planners.
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27
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Summary of Quality Assurance Requirements Cor tfie F3H &S Summe
TITLE
^>,»»»..»».^^>s>s...»....»»_.
40 CFR 58, Appendix D
Section 2.8.0.7 to 2.8 0.8
Urban Scale - This class of measurement would be made to characterize the participate matter concentration over an entire
metropolitan or rural area ranging in size from 4 to 50 km. Such measurements would be useful for assessing trends in
area-wide air quality, and hence, the effectiveness of large scale air pollution control strategies.
Regional Scale - These measurements would characterize conditions over areas with dimensions of as much as hundreds of
kilometers. As noted earlier, using representative conditions for an area implies some degree of homogeneity in that area.
For this reason, regional scale measurements would be most applicable to sparsely populated areas with reasonably uniform
ground cover. Data characteristics of this scale would provide information about larger scale processes of particulate matter
emissions, losses and transport. Especially in the case of PM, 5, transport contributes to particulate concentrations and may
affect multiple urban and State entities with large populations such as in the Eastern United States. Development of
effective pollution control strategies requires an understanding at regional geographical scales of the emission sources and
atmospheric processes that are responsible for elevated PM2 5 levels and may also be associated with elevated ozone and
regional haze.
40 CFR 58, Appendix D
Section 2.8 1
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2.8.1 Monitoring Planning Areas and Spatial Averaging Zones
Monitoring planning areas (MPA's) and spatial averaging zones (SAZ's) shall be used to conform to the
population-oriented, spatial averaging approach used for the PM2.S NAAQS given in 40 CFR Part 50. MPA's are required
to include all metropolitan statistical areas (MSA's) with population greater than 500,000, and all other areas determined
to be in violation of the PM2S NAAQS.1 Although not required, MPA's should generally be designated to also include all
MSA's with population greater than 250,000 which have measured or modeled PM2 5 concentrations greater than 80
percent of the PM2 5 NAAQS. Monitoring planning areas for other designated parts of the State are optional.
The SAZs shall define the area within which monitoring data will be averaged for comparison with the annual
PM2 s NAAQS. This approach is directly related to epidemiological studies used as the basis for the PM2 5 NAAQS. A SAZ
should characterize an area of relatively similar annual average air quality (e.g., the annual average concentrations at
individual sites should not exceed the spatial average by more than +/- 20 percent) and exhibit similar day to day variability
(e.g., the monitoring sites should not have low correlations, say less than 0.8). Moreover, the entire SAZ should principally
be affected by the same major emission sources of particulate matter.
28
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Summary 0f Quality Assurance fteipiremeiits for ffie FM &§ Sampler
TITLE
FEDEML
40 CFR 58, Appendix D
Section 2.8.1
Each monitoring planning area shall have at least one spatial averaging zone, which may or may not cover the entire MPA.
In metropolitan statistical areas (MSA's) for which MPA's are required, the SAZ's shall completely cover the entire MSA.
Exceptions to the requirement are allowed (say for areas with low population density) provided that it receives approval
from the appropriate EPA Regional Administrator. In MPA's for other areas, the SAZ's are not required to completely
cover the entire MPA. All MPA's and SAZ's shall be defined on the basis of existing, delineated mapping data limited to
State boundaries, county boundaries, zip codes, census blocks, or census block groups; however, SAZ's shall not overlap in
their geographical coverage.
Spatial averaging zones should generally include a minimum of 250,000 and not more than two million population,
but all areas in the ambient air may become a spatial averaging zone. The SAZ should emphasize population that spends a
substantial portion of time within the zone to reflect exposure from multiple spatial locations, but does not need to account
for all day-night population shifts. Consequently, large MSA's with population greater than one million should be
subdivided into smaller portions, such as counties, to better reflect the variability in exposure to the average population for
large numbers of people.
A SAZ can be represented by a single monitoring location, but in most cases multiple locations will be needed. For
example, a single monitor may not be adequate to characterize the average air quality in a large geographic area; in large
areas of relatively low population or population density, population centers and monitoring sites may be geographically
disjoint. In such cases, the spatial representativeness of the monitoring site should be considered in defining the SAZ
boundaries. Until more monitoring stations are established, the monitored air quality in areas outside of SAZ's is unknown.
Accordingly, a station that is established in the ambient air outside the boundaries of a SAZ but that is in or near a
populated area, meets siting criteria, and produces quality-assured data (i.e., meets the requirements of Part 58,58.13, and
Appendices A, C, and E) can also be presumed to produce data that is eligible for comparison to both the 24-hour and
annual NAAQS for PM2 5 and to represent some zone. At the discretion of the responsible air pollution control agency,
such a zone should be defined as a SAZ during the annual network review. In this way, the network coverage of the
population can be gradually improved.
40 CFR 58, Appendix D
Section 2.8 2.1
Core Monitoring Stations for PM2.5
Core monitoring stations or sites are a subset of the SLAMS network for PM2 5 for which more frequent (daily)
sampling of PMj s is required. These core sites fall into three categories: (1) population-oriented SLAMS monitors,
(2) background and transport sites, and (3) sites to be collocated at PAMS.
Within each monitoring planning area, the responsible air pollution control agency shall install (a) at least two
population-oriented core stations for PM2 5, unless exempted by the Regional Administrator, including at least one station
in a population oriented area of expected maximum concentration, (b) at least one station in an area of poor air quality and
representative of maximum population impact and © at least one additional core monitor collocated at a PAMS site if the
MPA is also a PAMS area.
29
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TECHNICAL REPORT DATA
(PLEASE READ INSTRUCTIONS ON THE REVERSE BEFORE COMPLETING)
1. REPORT NO.
EPA-454-/R-97002A
3. RECIPIENT'S ACCESSION NO.
4. TITLE AND SUBTITLE
QUALITY ASSURANCE PROCEDURES - INDEX TO KEY
PROVISIONS
5. REPORT DATE
2/1/97
6. PERFORMING ORGANIZATION CODE
7. AUTHOR(S)
DAVID MUSICK
8. PERFORMING ORGANIZATION REPORT NO.
9. PERFORMING ORGANIZATION NAME AND ADDRESS
MONITORING AND QUALITY ASSURANCE GROUP
EMISSIONS, MONITORING, AND ANALYSIS DIVISION
RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, NC 27711
10. PROGRAM ELEMENT NO.
11. CONTRACT/GRANT NO.
12. SPONSORING AGENCY NAME AND ADDRESS
13. TYPE OF REPORT AND PERIOD COVERED
14. SPONSORING AGENCY CODE
15. SUPPLEMENTARY NOTES
16. ABSTRACT
ON DECEMBER 13,1996, EPA PROPOSED SEVERAL CHANGES TO THE AMBIENT PARTICULATE
MONITORING PROGRAM:
1. PROPOSE TO AMEND THE NATIONAL AMBIENT AIR QUALITY STANDARD (NAAQS) FOR PARTICULATE
MATTER (61 FEDERAL REGISTER 65637) IN 40 CFR PART 50.
2. PROPOSE AN INTERIM IMPLEMENTATION POLICY ON THE REVISED NAAQS (61 FEDERAL REGISTER
65752) IN 40 CFR PART 51.
3. PROPOSE REQUIREMENTS FOR THE DESIGNATION OF REFERENCE AND EQUIVALENT METHODS FOR
PARTICULATE MATTER WITH AN AEROMETRIC DIAMETER LESS THAN OR EQUAL TO 2.5 MICROMETERS
(PM2.5) (61 FEDERAL REGISTER 65780) IN 40 CFR PARTS 53 AND 58.
17.
KEY WORDS AND DOCUMENT ANALYSIS
a. DESCRIPTORS
NAAQS
PM2.5
QUALITY ASSURANCE
b. IDENTIFIERS/OPEN ENDED TERMS c. COSATI FIELD/GROUP
18. DISTRIBUTION STATEMENT
UNLIMITED RELEASE
UNCLASS
21. NO. OF PAGES
39
22. PRICE
UNCLASS
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