Continuous Monitoring Systems (CMS)

Continuous monitoring systems (CMS) have become a critical part of a facility’s ongoing compliance demonstration. U.S. EPA and individual states agencies are focused on expanded transparency, increased scrutiny, and the use of data analytics and targeting for enforcement purposes. This makes effective CMS management more crucial than ever before. Businesses that prioritize continuous monitoring — and work with external consulting firms who know how to align system integration and data management with their strategic goals — will be better positioned to succeed in an increasingly complex and technical regulatory environment.

What Is a Continuous Monitoring System?

A Continuous Monitoring System

is a tool that continuously measures and records actual data and information from an emissions source. The measured data is often used in real-time to operate the source and also demonstrate compliance with applicable regulations. A CMS must meet specific criteria depending on the nature of your operation, which may include formal certification. The U.S. EPA distinguishes between four types of CMS:

  • Continuous emission monitoring systems (CEMS): To directly measure actual emission levels from a stationary source, such as nitrogen oxides of a flue-gas.
  • Continuous emission rate monitors (CERMs): A sub-type of CEMS that measures pollutant rates in a standard such as mass per unit time.
  • Continuous opacity monitoring systems (COMS): A relative indicator of particulate matter emissions by measuring the opacity of flue-gas.
  • Continuous parametric monitoring systems (CPMS): To measure a specific parameter(s) and also used to extrapolate emissions data from it.
Contact us to connect with a CMS Expert

ALL4’s CMS Expertise

can work with your team and assist with all aspects of CMS data management related to 40 CFR Part 60, Part 63 and Part 75. Our team includes air quality regulatory experts with experience in:

  • CMS procurement assistance
  • CMS system integration
  • Data acquisition and handling system (DAHS) implementation and optimization
  • Initial CMS certification and ongoing quality assurance
  • Site-specific monitoring
  • State-specific data management and reporting
  • CMS auditing
  • CMS data forensics and expert witness testimony
  • CMS permit condition review, development and negotiation
  • Alternative Monitoring Petitions (AMP)
  • Source Testing Program Management
  • Training and optimization
  • Electronic Data Reporting (including EDR-E)

We’ll work with your technical departments and senior management to put together a package of services appropriate for your organization. Though we specialize in large and complex projects, we have the customer focus to work on continuous emissions monitoring projects of any size.

CMS and DAHS Reviews

There are several situations which may trigger a review of your CMS or DAHS. These include:

  • Changes to 40 CFR Part 60, Part 63 or Part 75, or other governing regulations
  • Poor data availability or quality, or changing data end use
  • System errors that lead to lost allowances and subsequently cost you money
  • Installation or modification of air pollution control equipment
  • Inadequate or unavailable data substitution or validation capabilities
  • Aging equipment
  • Poor monitor availability
  • Plant modifications

To learn more about how ALL4 can help with proactive CMS design and system integration, or any other air quality monitoring issue, please contact ALL4’s Tech Team Leader – CMS, Matt Carideo, directly at mcarideo@all4inc.com

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