EPA Method 9 Certification in Wyoming
Wyoming visible emissions observers can prepare for certification without planning a trip to a scheduled smoke school. VR Smoke School provides an EPA-approved virtual program with online lecture materials, computer-based practice, and an official visual test completed on an approved VR headset.
Whether you work at one facility or travel between sites, you can fit training around your work schedule. The certification is valid for six months from the test date, just as it is after an in-person smoke school.
Watch: Wyoming EPA Method 9 Certification
Video: Wyoming EPA Method 9 Certification (Now Virtual)
Using Your Certification in Wyoming
VR Smoke School certification is recognized by the Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ). Observers can use it when conducting Method 9 visible emissions observations for applicable Wyoming air quality requirements, as well as at federally regulated sources.
EPA Method 9 describes how trained observers determine and document the opacity of visible emissions. Certification demonstrates an observer's ability to estimate smoke opacity; your facility's permit or applicable rule determines when observations are needed.
The EPA-Approved Alternative to a Field Smoke School
Our program operates under EPA ALT-152, the alternative method that allows observer certification using recorded smoke plumes viewed on a qualifying headset. Our team co-authored the method with the U.S. EPA and brings more than 45 years of smoke school training experience to the program.
The visual test includes 25 black and 25 white smoke readings and uses the same passing standards as traditional smoke school. After passing on an approved headset and choosing to validate, you receive EPA Method 9 certification for use in the field.
Prepare from Your Office or Home
A standard computer is enough to review the lecture, download reference materials, and practice estimating opacity. This gives Wyoming students a way to prepare before using a headset and lets employers organize training around shifts and facility responsibilities.
- No event calendar: Begin when you need training rather than waiting for a spring or fall class.
- No travel for the test: Complete certification at a suitable location with internet access.
- Consistent viewing conditions: Take the visual test without outdoor wind, lighting, or weather changes.
- Shared equipment: One approved headset can serve unlimited students and certifications.
Explore the training benefits when comparing this option with attending an in-person event.
From Free Account to Certification
- Create your free account to access the program.
- Review the online lecture and observation resources. The lecture is required for initial certification; prior lecture completion satisfies that requirement.
- Practice on a computer until you are comfortable with the controls and opacity readings.
- Sign in through the browser on an approved VR headset and pass the official visual test.
- Choose to validate your certification and obtain your certificate.
Computer tests are for practice only and cannot be used to obtain certification. An approved headset is required for the official test because it controls ambient light and provides the standardized viewing conditions required by the method.
Free Training and Testing. Pay When You Pass.
Lecture access, practice, and testing are free. You pay $250 only after passing on an approved VR headset and choosing to validate your certification. No credit card is required to create an account or explore the program.
For organizations coordinating several observers, sharing a headset and avoiding repeated travel can reduce the time and expense of maintaining certifications. Keep track of each observer's six-month expiration date so renewal fits your facility's observation schedule.
Plan Your Next Certification
Review our frequently asked questions for more information about training, testing, and certification. When you are ready, create a free account and start preparing for your next Wyoming opacity certification.