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Checklist for Selecting an Online Continuous Emission Monitoring System (OCEMS)

When investing in an OCEMS, it's essential to conduct a comprehensive evaluation of both the system and the vendor to ensure compliance, reliability, and suitability for your specific needs. 

Below is a checklist of 10 critical factors you should check, investigate, and understand before making a purchase:

1. Regulatory Compliance and Certification

Adherence to Indian Standards:
Ensure the OCEMS complies with the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) guidelines and other relevant Indian environmental regulations.

International Certifications:
Check for certifications like ISO 9001 for quality management and ISO 14001 for environmental management.

2. Measurement Technology Suitability

Type of System (Extractive vs. In-situ):
Assess which technology is more appropriate for your needs based on the types of gases to be measured and site conditions. Consider the pros and cons of each system concerning response time, maintenance, and reliability.

Gas Detection Capabilities:
Ensure the system can accurately measure all required pollutants. Check the detection limits and ranges to confirm they meet regulatory and operational requirements.

3. Environmental and Site Compatibility

Operating Conditions:
Confirm the system's ability to function effectively under local environmental conditions such as high temperatures, humidity, and dust levels common in India.

Space and Installation Requirements:
Evaluate the physical footprint of the system and any additional infrastructure needed, such as shelters for extractive systems.

4. Maintenance and Service Support

Maintenance Needs:
Understand the routine maintenance requirements, including calibration frequency, cleaning, and parts replacement.

Service Availability of Vendor:
Check if the vendor has a local service network in India for prompt support. Ensure availability of spare parts and consumables within the country to minimize downtime.

5. Vendor Reputation and Experience

Track Record:
Research the vendor's history in supplying OCEMS, particularly within India or similar markets.Look for client testimonials, case studies, or references to gauge customer satisfaction.

Expertise and Accreditation:
Verify the vendor's technical expertise and whether they have certified professionals for installation and maintenance. Confirm any industry awards or recognitions that attest to their credibility.

6. Total Cost of Ownership

Initial Investment:
Obtain detailed quotations covering all costs, including equipment, installation, commissioning, and training

Operational Costs:
Calculate ongoing expenses such as energy consumption, maintenance, calibration gases, and consumables.

7. Calibration and Quality Assurance

Calibration Procedures:
Understand the calibration methods used (automatic vs. manual) and the ease of performing them.Ensure the system includes features for zero and span checks to maintain accuracy.

Quality Control Measures:
Check if the system has built-in diagnostics and error reporting to facilitate troubleshooting.Confirm adherence to quality assurance standards like ISO 14956 for measurement uncertainty evaluation.

8. Data Management and Reporting

Data Accuracy and Security:
Ensure the system provides precise and reliable data suitable for compliance reporting.

Reporting Capabilities:
Assess the system's ability to generate reports in formats required by regulatory authorities.

9. Certifications

Vendor Certifications:
ISO 9001 (Quality Management),ISO 14001 (Environmental Management),ISO 45001 (Occupational Health and Safety)

Product Certifications:
CE Marking,QAL1 Compliance Test Report (Quality Assurance Level 1) /MCERTS Certification

10. Training and After-Sales Support

User Training:
Verify if the vendor provides comprehensive training for your staff on operation, maintenance, and safety procedures.

After-Sales Service:
Understand the warranty terms, including coverage duration and what components are included.Inquire about service level agreements (SLAs) for ongoing support, updates, and emergency response.

Conclusion
Investing in an OCEMS is a significant decision that impacts regulatory compliance, environmental responsibility, and operational efficiency. By meticulously evaluating these factors, you can select a system and vendor that not only meets your current needs but also supports your operations in the long term.

Action Steps:

  1. Compile Information: Gather detailed proposals from multiple vendors to compare offerings.
  2. Stakeholder Involvement: Involve key personnel from operations, maintenance, compliance, and IT in the evaluation process.
  3. Consult Experts: Consider engaging an independent consultant or industry expert to provide an unbiased assessment.
  4. Documentation: Keep thorough records of all communications, proposals, and evaluations to support your decision-making process.