RFP61227001 Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Systems Service and Operation

Description

In British Columbia, ambient air quality monitoring is conducted by the province (and in the Lower Mainland by Metro Vancouver), by select industrial sources permitted under the Environmental Management Act and by the BC Energy Regulator (“The Regulator” or “BCER”). Information on monitoring by the province and industrial sources can be accessed online at https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/environment/air-land-water/air Oil and gas activities are predominant in the Northeast Air Zone. Information on current readings and available data is available at https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/environment/air-land-water/air/air-quality/current-air-quality-data/northeast-air-zone

The Regulator monitors ambient air quality from oil and gas activities to protect public safety and conserve the environment. The roving air monitoring trailer known as the CAMEL (Continuous Air Monitoring Environmental Laboratory) and fully mobile van known as RAM (Roaming Air Monitor) units are used for this purpose.

The CAMEL can be deployed to study community air quality where there is no fixed monitoring station. To date, the CAMEL has been deployed to Taylor, Fort Saint John, Dawson Creek, Tumbler Ridge, Chetwynd, Buick Creek, Pouce Coupe, Venturian Mica, Briar Ridge and Fort Nelson.

The RAM can be quickly deployed , and can monitor air quality when in motion or at a fixed location. One of the main advantages of the RAM is that it can be powered by battery, engine alternator or connection to 120 volt AC power.

The Regulator requires a technical expert to service the CAMEL and RAM, ensure both units are fully operational at all times, move the CAMEL between locations, and validate all recorded data prior to public release. Oversight and direction will be provided by the Regulator Air Emissions Scientist and Environmental Response Specialist as appropriate. The Regulator also operates the permanent FARMINGTON Air Monitoring Station. Funding sources are determined on a year-to-year basis and may be added to this contract if required at the agreed upon rate schedule.