VR Smoke School vs In-Person Smoke School

In-Person Smoke School & VR Smoke School Similarities

There are numerous similarities between traditional in-person smoke school and smoke school completed on a VR headset.

• Both show standard values and practice questions of known opacity.
• The visual test protocol of 25 white smoke and 25 black smoke questions is the same.
• The grading standards used to determine whether a student passed the visual test are the same.
• A certified and calibrated smoke generator is used for both methods.
• Both types of smoke school allow individuals to earn EPA Method 9 certification.
• EPA Method 9 certification is valid for 6 months.
• Opacity observations are performed the same way, regardless of the certification method.

Advantages of VR Smoke School Over In-Person Smoke School

• VR Smoke School can be completed anytime from anywhere.
• Travel to in-person events is eliminated, along with lost time and expenses.
• Certification time and expenses are significantly reduced.
• Testing is consistent and not subject to weather conditions.
• In a study published by the EPA, observers certified using the VR Smoke School program were more accurate than observers certified at in-person smoke school.
• A smoke generator is only needed once to create videos, significantly reducing air pollution created by hundreds of annual in-person smoke schools.
• Private testing reduces pressure from crowds at in-person events.
• Students can learn from mistakes by replaying missed readings.
• Students can practice as much as they want at no cost. No VR headset is needed to practice.
• Students only pay when they pass and choose to unlock their certificate.

Create your free account for full access to the VR Smoke School Program and earn your EPA Method 9 certification today.

Ready to get started? Register here.