Delivering every environmental compliance service and solution your company needs. Let's get started. Discover our integrated line of services designed to meet all the environmental compliance needs and challenges your company faces. How can we make your compliance journey better? ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLIANCE Expert guidance to extend your people and possibilities. Minimize risk and maximize results with the clarity, insight, and deep domain knowledge needed to make informed decisions. Alliance consultants and compliance professionals are committed, responsive experts at uncovering innovative solutions to your challenges. Environmental Consulting Air Natural Resources Water Compliance Services Audits Emissions Reporting Environmental Compliance Approvals Health/Safety Land Use Planning Permitting Assessment & Remediation Due Diligence Engineering Remediation On-site Testing & Monitoring Testing and monitoring tailored to your needs. Your testing and monitoring results are critical and cannot be compromised. We are your resource for expert testing and precision monitoring, and with a dedicated team of collaborative professionals who understand the regulatory needs and requirements here in Canada, we are well positioned to help support your compliance needs. Source Testing & Monitoring Comprehensive Stack Testing CEMS Audits and Engine / MSAPR Services Temporary CEMS Systems Fugitive Emissions Leak Detection & Repair Optical Gas Imaging Aerial Monitoring Alt-Femp & AWP Database Management Skybridge Software Suite Ambient & Water Services Air Quality Monitoring Fenceline Applications Sensor Networks Meteorological Stations Calibrations & Maintenance Dispersion Modeling Quality Assurance & Reporting Laboratory Testing & Analysis A national lab network that puts the focus on you. Receive fast results and client focus of a local lab, with the capabilities and reach of an advanced national lab network. If your current lab provider doesn’t meet all your testing needs and timelines, or fails to offer actionable and effective results, turn to Alliance labs. Environmental Lab Services Water Waste PFAS Oil & Gas Lab Services Upstream Midstream Downstream

Services / On-Site Testing / Fugitive Emissions / Optical Gas Imaging Optical Gas Imaging (OGI) See the Unseen Using Optical Precision OGI cameras are engineered to rapidly detect leaks with high-resolution imaging, enabling the visual identification of even the smallest gas leaks across many hundreds of components. EXPERIENCE Our certified OGI technicians, including licenced drone pilots and seasoned leaders, bring deep expertise and widespread coverage across the U.S. and Canada, with extensive field experience in optical gas imaging. EQUIPMENT We deploy a robust inventory of OGI cameras, drone-camera systems, and portable Method 21 VOC analyzers—supported by our cloud-based platform for efficient data reporting and management via web and mobile. PROJECTS & CLIENTS As a trusted LDAR partner, we serve oil and gas companies throughout North America, delivering proven results across a wide range of projects involving well pads, tanks, and pipeline infrastructure. OGI Services Optical Gas Imaging (OGI) is a game-changing technology that enables the visual detection of gas leaks in real time—quickly, safely, and with unparalleled accuracy. By identifying fugitive emissions at the source, OGI enhances operational safety, reduces environmental impact, and lowers compliance costs for industrial facilities. Alliance Technical Group offers industry-leading OGI services backed by a seasoned team, robust data systems, and a commitment to quality. Whether you operate upstream, midstream, or downstream, our nationwide team delivers high-performance leak detection where and when it matters most. Applications OGI is a flexible solution ideal for diverse industrial sectors and applications: Upstream: well pads, offshore rigs, crude storage Midstream: pipelines, gas terminals, compressor stations Downstream: refineries, above-ground storage tanks Other Sectors: gas utilities, biogas plants, landfills, mining, semiconductor manufacturing OGI is also effective for detecting emissions from compressor rod packing systems, which are a common source of methane leaks in reciprocating engines. By visualizing and pinpointing these leaks in real time, operators can take corrective action before emissions exceed regulatory thresholds or impact equipment performance. Learn More About Our Engine Testing Services What are the benefits of having an OGI camera program? Reduce product loss Increases safety for workers and operators Decreases hazardous exposure for the surrounding community Reduces or eliminates potential fees and fines Regulatory Coverage Our services are fully aligned with federal and state requirements, including: Subparts OOOOa, OOOOb, OOOOc Subpart W 40 CFR Part 60, Appendix K Alternative Work Practice (AWP) Regional standards like Rules 1173 & 1178 SkyBridge OGI Software SkyBridge is our proprietary, cloud-based platform designed to streamline leak detection workflows. It enables: Real-time image capture and tagging Synchronized data entry across sites Secure mobile and web access Simplified reporting and regulatory documentation This all-in-one system eliminates manual processes and fragmented tools, giving clients a centralized, efficient solution for emissions management. See How SkyBridge OGI Works REQUEST INFORMATION "At Alliance we strive to make the inspections as affordable as possible while maintaining the best quality inspections in the industry. In most cases we complete the OGI inspections for less than the cost of a control valve, regulator or PRD." Leonard Robinson Manager, OGI VIEW OUR ACCREDITATIONS Back to All Services

HON RTR Amendment Years of Details. Clear Road to Compliance. The final EPA Risk and Technology Review (RTR) amendments for Hazardous Organic NESHAP (HON) became effective on July 15, 2024. It’s important to know what, when and how to plan for your course of action. Keep this page handy to quickly find critical compliance dates, requirements, and advice as you begin your implementation programs. Affected Source Types Content h3 What’s Changing? When’s Your Compliance Deadline? For every affected source—it’s wise to act early so you’ll have the foresight to understand where moderations and capital costs may be needed, and how to strategize the scheduling. Expand the tiles for key HON RTR facts at a glance. Our experts will soon be updating their areas with tips and advice. For immediate questions, contact our HON team for answers. Fenceline Monitoring Will you need fenceline monitoring? New fenceline monitoring requirements for affected sources that use, produce, store, or emit: benzene 1,3-butadiene ethylene dichloride vinyl chloride ethylene oxide (EtO) chloroprene Compliance Due: For Existing Sources: July 15, 2026 or July 15, 2027 Depending on the requirement. For New Sources: Upon initial startup or on July 15, 2024 , whichever is later. Flares New enhanced flare control device provisions. Incorporation of new operating and monitoring requirements for flare control devices. Compliance Due: For Existing Sources: July 15, 2027 For New Sources: Upon initial startup, or by July 15, 2024 , whichever is later. Process Vents Removal of the TRE Index, and more. Updated definition of Group 1 Process Vent, including removal of TRE as the basis for determination Enhanced requirements for process vents in EtO service New maintenance venting provisions New D/F standard for halogenated Group 1 Process Vents Compliance Date(s): For Existing Sources: July 15, 2027 For New Sources: Upon initial startup or on July 15, 2024 , whichever is later. Equipment Leaks Plan ahead for revised equipment leak provisions. Enhanced requirements for equipment in ethylene oxide (EtO) service New work practice standards for atmospheric PRDs Updated requirements for surge control vessels and bottoms receivers Compliance Due: For Existing Sources: July 15, 2026 EtO driven compliance amendments. July 15, 2027 All other amendments. For New Sources: Upon initial startup or on July 15, 2024 , whichever is later. Together. Proactively. At Alliance Technical Group, our consultants and other subject matter experts review regulations that affect our clients. They are dedicated to knowing your industry needs and delivering tailored, best-in-class solutions. We encourage you to get familiar with the most recent HON amendments here. Heat Exchange Systems Changes to methods and requirements. Incorporation of the Modified El Paso Method Enhanced requirements for heat exchange systems in EtO service Compliance Due: For Existing Sources: July 15, 2027 For New Sources: Upon initial startup or on July 15, 2024 , whichever is later. Storage Vessels Updates and new requirements. Updated definition of Group 1 Storage Vessel New requirements for internal floating roof tanks Enhanced requirements for storage vessels in EtO service New degassing requirements for Group 1 Storage Vessels Removal of pressure vessel exemption from the definition of storage vessel New monitoring requirements for pressure vessels Compliance Due: For Existing Sources: July 15, 2027 For New Sources: Upon initial startup or on July 15, 2024 , whichever is later. Wastewater Streams Wastewater streams impacted by EPA's risk review too. Incorporation of enhanced requirements for wastewater streams in EtO service. Compliance Due: For Existing Sources: July 15, 2026 For New Sources: Upon initial startup or on July 15, 2024 , whichever is later. Transfer Racks Does the pressure exemption update impact you? Transfer operations that load “at an operating pressure greater than 204.9 kilopascals” are no longer exempted from the definition of transfer operation. Compliance Date(s): For Existing Sources: July 15, 2027 For New Sources: Upon initial startup or on July 15, 2024 , whichever is later. Meet the Expert Jill Martin, Project Director, Environmental Consulting Jill’s extensive experience with the Chemical Manufacturing Sector, including her expertise with HON, makes her your trusted partner. Compliance Program Implementation Support | Gap Analyses | Technical Support Jill’s Proficiencies: Air Compliance Initial Compliance and Other Applicability Determinations (Chemical Manufacturing Sector NSPS and NESHAP regulations & Petroleum Refinery Sector NSPS and NESHAP regulations) Comprehensive Compliance Program Development (Above ground Storage Tanks, RICE, CEMS, Flares) Reporting Greenhouse Gas Mandatory Reporting Requirements Emissions Inventory Toxic Release Inventory Title V Compliance Reporting Consent Decree Compliance Reporting Periodic NSPS Compliance Reporting Periodic MACT Compliance Reporting Air Permitting Title V Permitting Miscellaneous Permitting Actions Public Notice Coordination Miscellaneous RCRA Permitting and Compliance Stack Test Observation Ambient Air Monitoring Wastewater Streams Wastewater streams impacted by EPA's risk review too. Incorporation of enhanced requirements for wastewater streams in EtO service. Compliance Due: For Existing Sources: July 15, 2026 For New Sources: Upon initial startup or on July 15, 2024 , whichever is later. Transfer Racks Does the pressure exemption update impact you? Transfer operations that load “at an operating pressure greater than 204.9 kilopascals” are no longer exempted from the definition of transfer operation. Compliance Date(s): For Existing Sources: July 15, 2027 For New Sources: Upon initial startup or on July 15, 2024 , whichever is later. Heat Exchange Systems Changes to methods and requirements. Incorporation of the Modified El Paso Method Enhanced requirements for heat exchange systems in EtO service Compliance Due: For Existing Sources: July 15, 2027 For New Sources: Upon initial startup or on July 15, 2024 , whichever is later. Storage Vessels Updates and new requirements. Updated definition of Group 1 Storage Vessel New requirements for internal floating roof tanks Enhanced requirements for storage vessels in EtO service New degassing requirements for Group 1 Storage Vessels Removal of pressure vessel exemption from the definition of storage vessel New monitoring requirements for pressure vessels Compliance Due: For Existing Sources: July 15, 2027 For New Sources: Upon initial startup or on July 15, 2024 , whichever is later. Partners in Proactive Implementation Quelling Concerns. Answering Questions. With so many details to know about HON RTR amendments, is your path to compliance clear for you? What’s the impact going to be, and how do you get started? Tap into Jill’s expertise and Alliance resources for your solutions. Between Jill and our other subject matter experts at Alliance, clients receive the most premium end-to-end environmental services from expert consulting services to testing, monitoring, and laboratory services available. Get reliable and prompt solutions for whatever regulatory challenges you may have. It’s the better way to ensure compliance. Get Help With Hon Process Vents Removal of the TRE Index, and more. Updated definition of Group 1 Process Vent, including removal of TRE as the basis for determination Enhanced requirements for process vents in EtO service New maintenance venting provisions New D/F standard for halogenated Group 1 Process Vents Compliance Date(s): For Existing Sources: July 15, 2027 For New Sources: Upon initial startup or on July 15, 2024 , whichever is later. Equipment Leaks Plan ahead for revised equipment leak provisions. Enhanced requirements for equipment in ethylene oxide (EtO) service New work practice standards for atmospheric PRDs Updated requirements for surge control vessels and bottoms receivers Compliance Due: For Existing Sources: July 15, 2026 EtO driven compliance amendments. July 15, 2027 All other amendments. For New Sources: Upon initial startup or on July 15, 2024 , whichever is later. Fenceline Monitoring Will you need fenceline monitoring? New fenceline monitoring requirements for affected sources that use, produce, store, or emit: benzene 1,3-butadiene ethylene dichloride vinyl chloride ethylene oxide (EtO) chloroprene Compliance Due: For Existing Sources: July 15, 2026 or July 15, 2027 Depending on the requirement. For New Sources: Upon initial startup or on July 15, 2024 , whichever is later. Flares New enhanced flare control device provisions. Incorporation of new operating and monitoring requirements for flare control devices. Compliance Due: For Existing Sources: July 15, 2027 For New Sources: Upon initial startup, or by July 15, 2024 , whichever is later. Fenceline Monitoring Will you need fenceline monitoring? New fenceline monitoring requirements for affected sources that use, produce, store, or emit: benzene 1,3-butadiene ethylene dichloride vinyl chloride ethylene oxide (EtO) chloroprene Compliance Due: For Existing Sources: July 15, 2026 or July 15, 2027 Depending on the requirement. For New Sources: Upon initial startup or on July 15, 2024 , whichever is later. Flares New enhanced flare control device provisions. Incorporation of new operating and monitoring requirements for flare control devices. Compliance Due: For Existing Sources: July 15, 2027 For New Sources: Upon initial startup, or by July 15, 2024 , whichever is later. Process Vents Removal of the TRE Index, and more. Updated definition of Group 1 Process Vent, including removal of TRE as the basis for determination Enhanced requirements for process vents in EtO service New maintenance venting provisions New D/F standard for halogenated Group 1 Process Vents Compliance Date(s): For Existing Sources: July 15, 2027 For New Sources: Upon initial startup or on July 15, 2024 , whichever is later. Equipment Leaks Plan ahead for revised equipment leak provisions. Enhanced requirements for equipment in ethylene oxide (EtO) service New work practice standards for atmospheric PRDs Updated requirements for surge control vessels and bottoms receivers Compliance Due: For Existing Sources: July 15, 2026 EtO driven compliance amendments. July 15, 2027 All other amendments. For New Sources: Upon initial startup or on July 15, 2024 , whichever is later. Process Vents Removal of the TRE Index, and more. Updated definition of Group 1 Process Vent, including removal of TRE as the basis for determination Enhanced requirements for process vents in EtO service New maintenance venting provisions New D/F standard for halogenated Group 1 Process Vents Compliance Date(s): For Existing Sources: July 15, 2027 For New Sources: Upon initial startup or on July 15, 2024 , whichever is later. Equipment Leaks Plan ahead for revised equipment leak provisions. Enhanced requirements for equipment in ethylene oxide (EtO) service New work practice standards for atmospheric PRDs Updated requirements for surge control vessels and bottoms receivers Compliance Due: For Existing Sources: July 15, 2026 EtO driven compliance amendments. July 15, 2027 All other amendments. For New Sources: Upon initial startup or on July 15, 2024 , whichever is later. Fenceline Monitoring Will you need fenceline monitoring? New fenceline monitoring requirements for affected sources that use, produce, store, or emit: benzene 1,3-butadiene ethylene dichloride vinyl chloride ethylene oxide (EtO) chloroprene Compliance Due: For Existing Sources: July 15, 2026 or July 15, 2027 Depending on the requirement. For New Sources: Upon initial startup or on July 15, 2024 , whichever is later. Flares New enhanced flare control device provisions. Incorporation of new operating and monitoring requirements for flare control devices. Compliance Due: For Existing Sources: July 15, 2027 For New Sources: Upon initial startup, or by July 15, 2024 , whichever is later. Process Vents Removal of the TRE Index, and more. Updated definition of Group 1 Process Vent, including removal of TRE as the basis for determination Enhanced requirements for process vents in EtO service New maintenance venting provisions New D/F standard for halogenated Group 1 Process Vents Compliance Date(s): For Existing Sources: July 15, 2027 For New Sources: Upon initial startup or on July 15, 2024 , whichever is later. Equipment Leaks Plan ahead for revised equipment leak provisions. Enhanced requirements for equipment in ethylene oxide (EtO) service New work practice standards for atmospheric PRDs Updated requirements for surge control vessels and bottoms receivers Compliance Due: For Existing Sources: July 15, 2026 EtO driven compliance amendments. July 15, 2027 All other amendments. For New Sources: Upon initial startup or on July 15, 2024 , whichever is later. Fenceline Monitoring Will you need fenceline monitoring? New fenceline monitoring requirements for affected sources that use, produce, store, or emit: benzene 1,3-butadiene ethylene dichloride vinyl chloride ethylene oxide (EtO) chloroprene Compliance Due: For Existing Sources: July 15, 2026 or July 15, 2027 Depending on the requirement. For New Sources: Upon initial startup or on July 15, 2024 , whichever is later. Flares New enhanced flare control device provisions. Incorporation of new operating and monitoring requirements for flare control devices. Compliance Due: For Existing Sources: July 15, 2027 For New Sources: Upon initial startup, or by July 15, 2024 , whichever is later. Heat Exchange Systems Changes to methods and requirements. Incorporation of the Modified El Paso Method Enhanced requirements for heat exchange systems in EtO service Compliance Due: For Existing Sources: July 15, 2027 For New Sources: Upon initial startup or on July 15, 2024 , whichever is later. Storage Vessels Updates and new requirements. Updated definition of Group 1 Storage Vessel New requirements for internal floating roof tanks Enhanced requirements for storage vessels in EtO service New degassing requirements for Group 1 Storage Vessels Removal of pressure vessel exemption from the definition of storage vessel New monitoring requirements for pressure vessels Compliance Due: For Existing Sources: July 15, 2027 For New Sources: Upon initial startup or on July 15, 2024 , whichever is later. Wastewater Streams Wastewater streams impacted by EPA's risk review too. Incorporation of enhanced requirements for wastewater streams in EtO service. Compliance Due: For Existing Sources: July 15, 2026 For New Sources: Upon initial startup or on July 15, 2024 , whichever is later. Transfer Racks Does the pressure exemption update impact you? Transfer operations that load “at an operating pressure greater than 204.9 kilopascals” are no longer exempted from the definition of transfer operation. Compliance Date(s): For Existing Sources: July 15, 2027 For New Sources: Upon initial startup or on July 15, 2024 , whichever is later. Wastewater Streams Wastewater streams impacted by EPA's risk review too. Incorporation of enhanced requirements for wastewater streams in EtO service. Compliance Due: For Existing Sources: July 15, 2026 For New Sources: Upon initial startup or on July 15, 2024 , whichever is later. Transfer Racks Does the pressure exemption update impact you? Transfer operations that load “at an operating pressure greater than 204.9 kilopascals” are no longer exempted from the definition of transfer operation. Compliance Date(s): For Existing Sources: July 15, 2027 For New Sources: Upon initial startup or on July 15, 2024 , whichever is later. Heat Exchange Systems Changes to methods and requirements. Incorporation of the Modified El Paso Method Enhanced requirements for heat exchange systems in EtO service Compliance Due: For Existing Sources: July 15, 2027 For New Sources: Upon initial startup or on July 15, 2024 , whichever is later. Storage Vessels Updates and new requirements. Updated definition of Group 1 Storage Vessel New requirements for internal floating roof tanks Enhanced requirements for storage vessels in EtO service New degassing requirements for Group 1 Storage Vessels Removal of pressure vessel exemption from the definition of storage vessel New monitoring requirements for pressure vessels Compliance Due: For Existing Sources: July 15, 2027 For New Sources: Upon initial startup or on July 15, 2024 , whichever is later.

Decatur, AL and Edmonton, AB — 7/14/2026 – Alliance Technical Group, a leading provider of environmental testing, monitoring, and compliance services, announced today the acquisition of Emissions Test Group (ETG), a trusted provider of industrial source emissions testing services headquartered in Edmonton, Alberta. The acquisition strengthens Alliance's presence in the Canadian environmental services market while adding a highly experienced field team with deep expertise across a broad range of emissions testing disciplines. Founded in 2012, ETG has built a strong reputation for delivering safe, accurate, and efficient emissions testing services to industrial clients across Western Canada. The company supports sectors such as oil refining and upgrading, wood products, power generation, chemical production, paper production and mineral/metal refining and production. Its work includes all aspects of source emissions testing, including manual stack surveys, CEMS commissioning and performance tests (RATAs & CGAs), gas turbine DLN tuning, pollution-control efficiency and guarantee testing and process optimization studies. "Emissions Test Group has earned an outstanding reputation in Western Canada through a genuine commitment to client relationships, data integrity, and field excellence," said Chris LeMay, CEO of Alliance Technical Group. "Daryl and his team have built something special; a practice grounded in technical precision and long-term partnerships with the clients they serve. That approach aligns perfectly with Alliance's values, and we're thrilled to welcome them to our growing network." With the addition of ETG, Alliance expands its source emissions testing capabilities in Canada while providing ETG's clients and team members with access to Alliance's broader resources, technical depth, and national platform. "Joining Alliance marks an exciting new direction for ETG and the team we've built over the past decade," said Daryl Zander, Founder of Emissions Test Group. "Our focus has always been on doing the work right, building real relationships with our clients, and earning their trust one project at a time. Alliance shares those values, and this partnership gives us the platform to serve our clients even better while opening doors to new opportunities we couldn't reach on our own." This acquisition underscores Alliance's continued commitment to expanding its environmental testing and compliance capabilities across North America.

A Continuous Emissions Monitoring System (CEMS) is used to continuously measure and record pollutant emissions — such as SO₂, NOₓ, CO, and opacity — from industrial stacks to demonstrate compliance with air quality regulations. These systems operate in harsh industrial environments where heat, moisture, particulate matter, and corrosive gases degrade equipment over time. Most CEMS failures are preventable. Drawing from years of field experience across power generation, industrial manufacturing, and chemical processing facilities, Alliance technicians have identified the most common failure patterns and the maintenance practices that prevent them. 1. Plugged Probe Filters Probe filters are designed to protect the sample system, but excessive particulate loading can quickly overwhelm them. Common causes: Excessive eductor pressure creating too much suction, incorrect probe selection for the application, missing impingement shields, and high particulate loading from the process itself. How to identify it: Watch for frequent filter replacements, reduced sample flow rates, analyzer instability, and rising maintenance frequency. Any one of these can indicate a filter that’s working harder than it should. How to prevent it: Optimize eductor pressure settings, install probe impingement shields where appropriate, and evaluate process conditions that generate excess particulate. Most importantly, match the probe to the application — a standard probe is not always the right tool. In one facility, a standard probe struggled with high particulate loading from a furnace process. After evaluating the application, technicians recommended replacing it with a dilution probe better suited for harsh conditions, significantly reducing maintenance requirements. Failed Probe Filter Dirty Air Purge Filter 2. Moisture Passing Through the Sample Conditioning System Water slip is one of the most common issues encountered in CEMS sample conditioning systems. When moisture bypasses the chiller, analyzers can experience erratic performance, calibration drift, and potential damage. Common causes: Excessive sample flow rates, chiller temperatures set too high, undersized heat exchangers, and inefficient or degraded moisture removal components. How to identify it: Look for unstable analyzer readings, unexplained calibration drift, or visible moisture in sample lines downstream of the chiller. These symptoms are often misdiagnosed as analyzer problems when the root cause is upstream in the conditioning system. How to prevent it: Verify sample flow rates against system design specifications, maintain chiller temperatures appropriate for your application, evaluate heat exchanger capacity relative to actual process conditions, and inspect moisture removal components on a regular schedule. Even small adjustments to flow rate and temperature can dramatically improve moisture removal and protect analyzers from long-term damage. 3. Dirty Instrument Air Systems Instrument air systems provide clean, dry air to analyzers and other sensitive equipment. When neglected, contaminants such as moisture and oil can impact system performance. Common causes: Poor air dryer maintenance, saturated filters, moisture accumulation, and oil contamination. How to identify it: Unexplained analyzer performance issues affecting multiple instruments at once, visible moisture or oily residue in air lines, and accelerated component wear can all indicate a compromised instrument air supply. Because these symptoms mimic other failure modes, instrument air quality is often the last thing checked. How to prevent it: Replace desiccant and filters routinely, inspect tubing for moisture or contamination, and include air cleanup systems in preventative maintenance programs. A clean instrument air supply is foundational to CEMS reliability. Facilities that treat air system maintenance as optional tend to experience recurring, difficult-to-diagnose analyzer problems that disappear once the air supply is properly addressed. Fresh tubing for this Air Clean up System Fresh desiccant, clean filters and new tubing will go a long way to ensure that your daily drift is kept to a minimum 4. Corrosion from Acidic Condensate Corrosion is often a hidden problem that develops gradually until instrumentation begins to fail. Common causes: Acidic condensate formation, incompatible tubing materials, and harsh operating environments. How to identify it: Green deposits on tubing and fittings are a reliable early warning sign of active corrosion and should never be ignored. Unexplained sample flow restrictions, fitting failures, and analyzer contamination can also indicate that corrosion has progressed beyond the surface. How to prevent it: Use corrosion-resistant materials, routinely inspect and flush sample lines, and address moisture issues before corrosion develops. Corrosion frequently appears as green deposits on tubing and fittings — a warning sign that should never be ignored. 5. Improper Shelter HVAC Systems Analyzer shelters require stable environmental conditions to support reliable measurements. Common causes: Undersized air conditioning systems, lack of heating capability, and large temperature fluctuations. How to identify it: Calibration issues that correlate with outdoor temperature changes, analyzer alarms that appear during summer heat or winter cold, and visible condensation inside the shelter are all signs that environmental conditions are outside acceptable limits. How to prevent it: Install HVAC systems designed for year-round operation, maintain stable shelter temperatures, and monitor environmental conditions routinely. Maintaining shelter temperatures between approximately 72°F and 78°F can help improve analyzer stability and reduce calibration issues. Improper HVAC Proper HVAC 6. Dirty Gas Coolers Gas coolers are often overlooked until performance begins to suffer. Common causes: Infrequent inspections, lack of preventative maintenance, and dirt and corrosion buildup. How to identify it: Rising sample temperatures, increased moisture in the sample downstream of the cooler, and declining analyzer stability can all indicate a cooler that’s no longer performing adequately. Because cooler degradation is gradual, the connection to downstream analyzer problems isn’t always obvious. How to prevent it: Conduct regular visual inspections, establish cleaning intervals, and inspect for corrosion and performance degradation. Dirty Gas Cooler 7. Damaged Umbilicals Umbilicals are critical to maintaining sample integrity between the probe and analyzer. Once moisture enters an umbilical, damage can accelerate rapidly, particularly during freeze-thaw cycles. Common causes: Water intrusion, damaged insulation, poor sealing practices, and aging components. How to identify it: Unexplained moisture in the sample system, calibration instability that can’t be traced to the analyzer or conditioning system, and visible physical damage to the umbilical jacket are all indicators. Problems often surface — or worsen — after the first hard freeze of the season. How to prevent it: Inspect umbilicals regularly, verify heater operation, seal connection points, and address leaks before winter weather arrives. Melted Umbilical Tubing 8. Neglected Probe Tubes and Sample Ports Probe tubes and sample ports often receive attention only after a failure occurs. Routine inspections can prevent complete sample flow loss and unexpected outages. Common causes: Lack of preventative maintenance, particulate accumulation, corrosion, and mechanical damage. How to identify it: Declining sample flow, increased pressure drop across the probe, and unexplained analyzer instability can all indicate that probe tubes or sample ports are partially restricted. Complete flow loss is typically the point at which neglected probes are first discovered — at which point an outage is already underway. How to prevent it: Inspect every 12–24 months, remove buildup before restrictions develop, and replace damaged components proactively. Damaged Tube Damaged Probe Tube Stack Probe Tube Damaged Probe Tube 9. Winter-Related Sample System Failures Cold weather can expose weaknesses throughout a CEMS installation. Common problems: Flange leaks, frozen sample lines, calibration instability, and restricted flow paths. How to identify it: Calibration instability that appears during cold snaps, reduced or lost sample flow, flange leaks that develop or worsen in cold weather, and frozen sample lines are the most common winter failure patterns. Systems that performed adequately through fall may fail quickly once sustained cold arrives. How to prevent it: Verify insulation integrity, maintain adequate heat tracing, and inspect vulnerable areas before winter arrives. Preparing for seasonal changes is often far less expensive than responding to winter-related failures. Exposed Spool Weather Damage 10. Installation Errors Even new systems can experience reliability issues when installation details are overlooked. Common causes: Incorrect flange bolt patterns, poor alignment, and improper component placement. How to identify it: Persistent flow problems, unexplained leaks at flanges or connections, and calibration issues that begin at startup and don’t resolve with standard troubleshooting are often indicators of installation errors. Systems with these characteristics frequently benefit from an installation review before further component-level troubleshooting. How to prevent it: Verify flange drawings before installation, follow installation QA procedures, and perform thorough post-installation inspections. A few extra minutes during installation can prevent hours of future troubleshooting. 11. Disorganized CEMS Racks Poor organization can make troubleshooting and maintenance significantly more difficult. Common causes: Unlabeled components, inconsistent tubing routing, poor documentation, and difficult equipment access. How to identify it: Technicians spending excessive time tracing lines before performing routine maintenance, unlabeled or inconsistently labeled components, tubing runs that don’t match current system diagrams, and difficulty locating isolation points or service connections are all signs of a rack that needs organizational attention. How to prevent it: Label components clearly, maintain current documentation, organize tubing and wiring, and conduct periodic system reviews. A well-organized rack not only looks better — it reduces troubleshooting time and improves long-term maintainability. Disorganized CEMS Rack Alliance's CEMS Craftsmanship What Most CEMS Failures Have in Common While the issues above vary, most share the same underlying causes, including deferred maintenance, inadequate inspection frequency, environmental exposure, improper equipment selection, and small issues that go unaddressed until they become outages. The most effective CEMS programs share three traits: scheduled inspections tied to operational cycles, documentation that tracks component condition over time, and a clear escalation path when field technicians identify emerging issues. CEMS Field Services from Alliance Technical Group Alliance Technical Group provides CEMS field services to industrial and utility facilities across North America. Our technicians perform preventative maintenance programs, system inspections and assessments, analyzer troubleshooting and repair, umbilical replacement, calibration and QA/QC support, emergency field service response, and CEMS upgrades and retrofits. Facilities working with Alliance typically use our field services to address recurring reliability issues, prepare for regulatory audits, evaluate aging equipment, or establish a structured maintenance program where none previously existed. If your facility is experiencing unexplained downtime, calibration drift, or compliance data gaps, a CEMS system assessment is a practical starting point. Alliance technicians can evaluate your current installation, identify emerging issues, and recommend a maintenance approach based on your process conditions and regulatory requirements.

Continuous Emissions Monitoring System (CEMS) and Air Monitoring Directive (AMD) audits are a routine part of regulatory compliance, yet many facilities still find themselves rushing to gather documentation or clarify procedures as the audit date approaches. With regulations constantly increasing expectations around data integrity, quality assurance, and operational transparency, preparation has become a year-round responsibility rather than a once per year task. What are Internal Independent Inspections/Audits? CEMS Annual Inspections/Audits: The 2021 Alberta CEMS Code and Environment Canada EPS 1/PG7 require an annual evaluation of the CEMS system and quality assurance plan (QAP). Audits review the entire year’s CEMS data including performance tests (Relative Accuracy Test Audits (RATA) and Cylinder Gas Audits (CGA), reported data, maintenance and corrective maintenance records, staff training requirements, and QAP accuracy. AMD Annual Inspection/Audits: The 2016 Alberta Air Monitoring Directive (AMD) requires facilities to complete an annual audit once every three years to ensure the AMD and Quality system in place is adhered to. Audits evaluate the air monitoring equipment, including passive and ambient stations, operations, and reporting activities against the quality system and AMD. What Are Common Issues Preparing for a CEMS and AMD Audit? Most facilities don’t struggle because they lack data but because the data is scattered across systems, teams, and formats. Common issues we see at audit time include: Missing or inconsistent calibration records Gaps in preventative and corrective maintenance logs Outdated Quality Assurance Plans (QAPs) Staff uncertainty about procedures or regulatory expectations Performance tests with incorrect methodology or documentation Unclear documentation of previous audit findings and corrective actions Inaccurate or inconsistent data summaries Many of these challenges trace back to deeper root causes. On the technical side, data is often scattered across multiple platforms, accessed by different users, or stored using inconsistent naming conventions and filing structures making it difficult to retrieve quickly. Operational factors also play a role, including staff turnover that can lead to gaps in system knowledge, training may not keep pace with regulatory changes or turnover, and maintenance programs may be more reactive than proactive. A Four-Phase Framework for CEMS and AMD Audit Preparation Alliance Technical Group supports facilities across Canada in navigating these requirements with confidence. Our auditing team brings deep technical expertise and practical experience with CEMS operations, source testing, ambient monitoring, and regulatory reporting, giving organizations the insight and confidence to effectively prepare for these evaluations. By the end of each audit, the goal is for the facility to feel confident in the performance of their CEMS and ambient systems, be aware of any regulatory risk that needs to be addressed and understand where opportunities for improvement exist. Audits can help identify areas for improvement, allowing organizations to implement solutions before issues lead to costly failures. Below is a simplified version of the approach Alliance Technical Group uses with clients. Phase 1: Gathering CEMS Documentation and Calibration Records The facility is requested to gather all documentation related to: Approvals Quality Assurance Plans (QAPs) Daily reports and calibration records Performance testing reports (CGAs, RATAs, manual stack surveys) Preventative and corrective maintenance logs Recertification data (if applicable) Previous audit findings and evidence of remedial actions Air data and reports (AMD forms, EDR forms, ambient data, monthly, quarterly, and annual reports, contraventions, submission confirmations) These documents are the foundation of the audit. Phase 2: On-Site Evaluation of CEMS and Ambient Monitoring Systems Audit evaluations examine a wide range of system components, including overall system performance, data acquisition processes, staff readiness, and gap assessments such as missing documentation, incomplete logs, or outdated procedures. During this phase of the audit, the auditor typically spends time on-site interviewing technicians, field inspection of the monitoring system, reviewing the quality assurance plan and standard operating procedures, reviewing documentation and records, and consulting with regulatory specialists. Phase 3: Audit Review, Close-Out Meetings, and Reports This portion of the audit process includes a sit down with all pertinent personnel to discuss findings, areas for improvement, and have discussions with the facility on improvement options. Following close out, reports are completed and submitted to the facility to include findings in their monthly, quarterly, or annual reporting. Phase 4: Implementation of Findings This phase is one of the most critical steps following the audit. It relies heavily on the facility to review the identified opportunities for improvement and findings, then implement any adjustments, updates, or enhancements to their system as appropriate. All actions taken should be thoroughly documented and retained for the following year’s audit. Our auditing team is always happy to provide guidance with any questions that pop up during this phase. What Makes Alliance Technical Group's Audit Approach Different Tailored preparation based on your facility’s systems and regulatory obligations Cross functional expertise spanning CEMS, ambient monitoring, emissions testing, DAS configuration, and regulatory reporting our auditing team has unique experience in a diverse range of air regulations and in-field work. Proactive identification of issues and opportunities for improvement before they turn into bigger concerns, or costly mistakes. Clear, actionable recommendations rather than generic checklists Support during and after the audit, including corrective action planning and guidance. Critical Success Factors for a Compliant CEMS or AMD Audit From our experience, successful audits share these characteristics: Documentation is complete, organized, and accessible Staff are trained and knowledgeable in their roles Maintenance logs are detailed and up to date QAPs reflect current operations Data is validated regularly--not just before the audit Preparing for a CEMS or AMD audit doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right structure, documentation, and team readiness, facilities can move through the audit process with confidence and clarity. The key is shifting from reactive to a proactive, year-round approach-one that strengthens data integrity, reduces compliance risk, and supports operational excellence. As the regulatory landscape continues to evolve, audit readiness becomes not just a requirement, but a strategic advantage. By following the steps outlined in this guide, your facility can ensure smoother audits, reduced regulatory risk, stronger performance, and long-term compliance success. Not sure where your compliance gaps are? Our auditing team can help. Emily Darragh Regulatory Manager, Calgary, AB, Canada