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  • Where can I download hourly emissions data from continuous monitoring?

    Hourly emissions data files are available from the Clean Air Markets Division of EPA, collected as part of 40 CFR Part 75. The download location has changed in February, 2023. The new location is https://campd.epa.gov/data/bulk-data-files . Once on this new site, use the menu (at the left) and the Keyword…

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  • Where can I find older NEI data (prior to 2008)?

    The raw data and summaries that are still available (dating back to 1990) can be obtained from the web page https://www.epa.gov/air-emissions-inventories/pollutant-emissions-summary-files-earlier-neis . Starting with 2001 data, a more limited selection of summary files are available.

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  • How do the different parts of particulate matter (PM) fit together?

    The various parts of PM in the NEI are related as follows. PM10-FIL > PM25-FIL because PM10-FIL includes PM25-FIL PM25-PRI = PM25-FIL + PM-CON This equation only applies at the process level. Because some sources only can report PM2.5 (due to test method differences), this equation does not apply to…

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  • How does PM2.5 relate to PM species such as EC, OC, SO4, NO3, PMFINE, and DIESEL-PM25?

    Primary PM2.5 estimates are speciated into the five PM species in the NEI: elemental (black) carbon (EC), organic carbon (OC), nitrate (NO3), sulfate (SO4), and the remainder of PM25-PRI (PMFINE). Diesel engine PM25-PRI and PM10 emissions are also labeled as DIESEL-PM25 and DIESEL-PM10 for mobile source diesel engines. For all…

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  • When testing a work area, does one lead test kit or paint chip sample suffice for any single component?

    The certified renovator is only required to use one lead test kit or paint chip sample for each component, even if the surface of the component is extensive (e.g., a large wall). Question Number: 23002-23865 Find a printable PDF copy of all frequent questions pertaining to lead .

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  • Can a homeowner use an EPA-recognized lead test kit to check for lead-based paint?

    Answer: A number of lead test kits are available for consumer purchase in most retail hardware stores; however, the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) states that consumers should exercise caution when using these lead test kits to evaluate consumer products for potential lead exposures. Find more information online . To…

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  • How can I obtain D-Lead® test kits?

    The D-Lead® test kits are available for purchase from certain distributors and retail outlets. Locate a distributor or retailer online , email [email protected] or call 414-962-3006. Question Number: 23002-16390 Find a printable PDF copy of all frequent questions pertaining to lead .

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  • Is lead paint testing required under the Lead Renovation, Repair and Painting (RRP) Rule?

    No. A firm can either assume lead-based paint is present and follow the requirements of the RRP Rule (which requires no testing), or test and if lead-based paint is found follow the requirements of the regulation. Question Number: 23002-32338 Find a printable PDF copy of all frequent questions pertaining to…

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  • How complete are the data in the National Emissions Inventory?

    While the goal of the National Emissions Inventory (NEI) program is to include all emissions data, there are always challenges meeting this goal. The answer about completeness of coverage of sources depends on the emissions sector and pollutant. In general, the criteria air pollutants and precursors (CAPs) are expected to…

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  • Where is more information available about emissions estimation methods used by the EPA?

    For criteria air pollutants and precursors as well as for hazardous air pollutants, the methods are described in the technical support document (TSD) for the latest National Emissions Inventory (NEI) available from the main NEI page . For greenhouse gas emissions, you can find greenhouse gas inventory methods from the…

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  • What sources make up the Tier 1 categories used in the emissions trends?

    Tier 1 categories are assigned by source classification codes (SCCs) that are the most specific processes available in the NEI. The latest SCC list with the Tier 1 assignments can be downloaded from the EPA SCC website in Comma Separate Values (CSV) format.

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  • What is the cause of the large decrease in electric utility emissions, particularly sulfur dioxide, starting in 1995?

    SO2 emissions reductions from utilities during this time are primarily attributed to the impacts of the acid rain program. As described on EPA’s Acid Rain Program web page, Phase 1 of this program began in 1995 and affected 263 units at 110 most coal-burning electric utility plants in 21 eastern…

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  • Can I get access to the Emissions Inventory System if I am not a data provider to EPA?

    The Emission Inventory System (EIS) is a secured database for EPA and State/Local and Tribal Air Agencies only. The EIS is used to develop the National Emission Inventory (NEI). While you cannot have access to EIS, you can have access to the current and past NEIs through EPA’s NEI website…

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  • Are biogenic emissions included in the emissions trends Tier 1 data?

    No, the biogenic emissions are not included in the emissions trends Tier 1 data. If needed, users can add the biogenic data either as a separate Tier, or specify its inclusion in the “Miscellaneous” Tier 1 group.

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  • Does EPA recognize the 3M LeadCheckTM test kit for use on red paint?

    Yes. EPA recognizes this lead test kit for use on any color paint as long as the lead test kit is used in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. Note: As of October 2023, 3M has suspended the production and sale of 3M™ LeadCheck™ test kits. More information about EPA recognized…

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