Government of New Brunswick

Mobile Air Quality Monitoring Unit

Mobile Air Quality Monitoring Unit

Since 2001 DELG has operated a mobile air quality monitoring unit to supplement monitoring carried out at established (non-mobile) monitoring sites. The facility can be moved to various areas of the province, fulfilling temporary monitoring needs. The current air quality monitoring trailer was acquired from the National Air Pollution Surveillance (NAPS) program in 2007.

Personnel within the Environmental Evaluation and Reporting Branch are responsible for deploying, operating, and maintaining the mobile air quality monitoring unit. Personnel from the Department’s Regional Offices may also provide support.

Features

The vehicle is able to measure the following pollutants in ambient air: sulphur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, total reduced sulphur, carbon monoxide, and fine particulate (PM10 or PM2.5). The vehicle is also fitted with a retractable 10-meter mast with wind speed and wind direction instruments. Additional monitoring capabilities (e.g., volatile organic compounds) can be added when necessary.

The facility is equipped with a data-logging computer and is connected to the central office database via the Internet.  This allows real-time access to data and equipment diagnostic funtions.

 

Intended Uses

air quality monitoring unit

The mobile air quality monitoring unit is deployed as needs arise. Typical applications include:

  • Assessment of the local impact of point or area emission sources
  • Site evaluation prior to establishing permanent monitoring sites
  • Comparative analysis studies with permanent monitoring sites.
  • Verification of air quality modelling predictions
  • Determination of background (baseline) air quality levels
  • Monitoring the effects of short-lived events that have potential for air quality impacts (e.g., slash burning, forest fires, fire training exercises)