EPA Method 9 Form Instructions

How to complete a Method 9 observation form

This is a series of videos that will play in order of appearance on the form.

Individual videos are available below.

Completing the EPA Method 9 visible emissions observation (VEO) form correctly is a critical step in every field opacity reading. This series of videos walks through each field on the VEO form, explaining what information is required and how to record it accurately.

Topics covered include observer and facility identification, source and unit description, date and time documentation, sky and background conditions, wind direction, observer positioning, and the 15-second opacity readings that make up the observation set.

Whether preparing for an upcoming stack test, brushing up before recertification, or training new observers, this video series provides a clear, practical reference for producing a complete and accurate Method 9 observation form.

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Watch Method 9 Form Videos Individually

EPA Method 9 Form Overview Video

This video introduces the Compliance Assurance video series and provides an overview of the EPA Method 9 visible emissions observation form — its purpose, the categories of opacity readings it addresses, and what to know before getting started with it.

Next: Company Info & Equipment »

Method 9 Observation Form - Company Info & Equipment Video

This video walks through the Company Information and Process/Control Equipment sections of the EPA Method 9 visible emissions observation form, outlining what each field requires and where to track down the information needed to complete it accurately.

Next: Emission Point, Description & Conditions »

Visible Emissions Observation Form Video- Emission Point, Description & Conditions

Three sections of the EPA Method 9 form deal with where you're observing, what you're observing, and the conditions around you when you observe — Emission Point, Emission Description, and Environmental Conditions. This video breaks down each one and explains how to fill them in accurately.

Next: Source Sketch Section »

Method 9 Form - Source Sketch Section Video

The Source Sketch section of the EPA Method 9 form calls for more than a simple drawing — it has to document precise details about your observation setup. This video breaks down what needs to appear in the sketch and how to fill it out correctly.

Next: Additional Info, Form Number & Observer »

VEO Form: Additional Information, Form Number & Observer Video

This video covers the Additional Information, Form Number, and Observer sections of the EPA Method 9 visible emissions observation form, breaking down what each field is asking for and where to find the corresponding information

Next: Observation Data »

How to Complete the Observation Data Section of the EPA Method 9 Form

This video covers the Observation Data section of the EPA Method 9 visible emissions evaluation form, including how to properly record observations and determine the average opacity reading.