Section 30. Performance testing

A. Performance tests for new or modified sources shall be conducted and reported and data shall be reduced as set forth in this chapter and the test methods and procedures contained in each applicable subpart listed in 9VAC5-50-410 unless the board (i) specifies or approves, in specific cases, the use of a reference method with minor changes in methodology; (ii) approves the use of an equivalent method; (iii) approves the use of an alternative method the results of which the board has determined to be adequate for indicating whether a specific source is in compliance; (iv) waives the requirement for performance tests because the owner of a source has demonstrated by other means to the board's satisfaction that the affected facility is in compliance with the standard; or (v) approves shorter sampling times and smaller sample volumes when necessitated by process variables or other factors. Any new or modified source, for which no standards of performance are set forth in Article 5 (9VAC5-50-400 et seq.) of this part, shall be performance tested by appropriate reference methods unless the board (i) specifies or approves, in specific cases, the use of a reference method with minor changes in methodology; (ii) approves the use of an equivalent method; (iii) approves the use of an alternative method the results of which the board has determined to be adequate for indicating whether a specific source is in compliance; (iv) waives the requirement for performance tests because the owner of a source has demonstrated by other means to the board's satisfaction that the affected facility is in compliance with the standard; or (v) approves shorter sampling times and smaller sample volumes when necessitated by process variables or other factors. In cases where no appropriate reference method exists for a new or modified source subject to a standard of performance for volatile organic compounds, the test methods in 9VAC5-20-121 may be considered appropriate.

B. Performance testing for new or modified sources shall be subject to testing guidelines approved by the board. Procedures may be adjusted or changed by the board to suit specific sampling conditions or needs based upon good practice, judgment and experience. When such tests are adjusted, consideration shall be given to the effect of such change on established standards. Tests shall be performed under the direction of persons whose qualifications are acceptable to the board.

C. Performance tests for new or modified sources shall be conducted under conditions which the board shall specify to the owner based on representative performance of the source. The owner shall make available to the board such records as may be necessary to determine the conditions of the performance tests. Operation during periods of startup, shutdown and malfunction shall not constitute representative conditions for the purpose of a performance test. During the initial performance test, emissions in excess of the level of the applicable emission limit during periods of startup, shutdown, and malfunction shall not be considered a violation of the applicable emission limit unless otherwise specified in the applicable standard.

D. An owner may request that the board determine the opacity of emissions from a new or modified source during the performance tests required by this section.

E. Unless specified otherwise in the applicable standard, each performance test for a new or modified source shall consist of three separate runs using the applicable test method. Each run shall be conducted for the time and under the conditions specified in the applicable standard. For the purpose of determining compliance with an applicable standard the arithmetic mean of the results of the three runs shall apply. In the event that a sample is accidentally lost or if conditions occur in which one of the three runs must be discontinued because of forced shutdown, failure of an irreplaceable portion of the sample train, extreme meteorological conditions or other circumstances beyond the owner's control, compliance may, upon the approval of the board, be determined using the arithmetic mean of the results of the two other runs.

F. The board may test emissions of air pollutants from any new or modified source. Upon request of the board the owner shall provide, or cause to be provided, performance testing facilities as follows:

1. Sampling ports adequate for test methods applicable to such source. This includes (i) constructing the air pollution control system such that volumetric flow rates and pollutant emission rates can be accurately determined by applicable test methods and procedures and (ii) providing a stack or duct with acceptable flow characteristics during performance tests, as demonstrated by applicable test methods and procedures.

2. Safe sampling platforms.

3. Safe access to sampling platforms.

4. Utilities for sampling and testing equipment.

G. Upon request of the board, the owner of any new or modified source subject to the provisions of this chapter shall conduct performance tests in accordance with procedures approved by the board.

Historical Notes

Derived from VR120-05-03, eff. January 1, 1985; amended, Volume 18, Issue 21, eff. August 1, 2002.

Statutory Authority

§ 10.1-1308 of the Code of Virginia.