What should an inspector do if their equipment malfunctions during an emissions test?

When an inspector's equipment malfunctions during an emissions test, the appropriate course of action is to follow protocol to recalibrate or replace the equipment. This ensures that the integrity and accuracy of the emissions testing process are maintained, which is crucial for compliance with environmental regulations.

Properly functioning testing equipment is essential to obtaining reliable results, which can impact regulatory decisions, vehicle emissions compliance, and environmental health. Continuing the test with malfunctioning equipment can lead to incorrect readings, potentially allowing non-compliant vehicles to pass or unnecessarily failing compliant ones. Following established protocols for maintenance, recalibration, or replacement ensures that the testing process adheres to industry standards and regulatory requirements.

If the equipment is not functioning correctly, it’s vital for the inspector to address the issue promptly before resuming testing to uphold the quality and reliability of the emissions testing process.