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National Performance Evaluation Program
This section provides information on the National Performance Evaluation Program (NPEP). A critical element in any quality assurance program is the process of independent assessment. Independent assessment provides for a level of objectivity and consistency in the determination of data quality. As the Federal organization responsible for the implementation and oversight of the Ambient Air Monitoring Program, OAQPS, in partnership with the EPA Regions and the National Environmental Research Laboratory (NERL), have always provided the function of independent assessment that includes: site characterization and network reviews, technical systems audits and performance evaluations. Performance evaluations (PE) are a type of audit in which the quantitative data generated in a measurement system are obtained independently and compared with routinely obtained data to evaluate the proficiency of an analyst or laboratory.
- August 16, 2011 Memorandum from Chet Wayland to Air Directors Regarding National Performance Audit Program, PM2.5 Performance Evaluation Program and Pb Performance Evaluation Program Implementation Decision Memorandum for Calendar Year 2012 (PDF) (8pp, 970k)
- PEP Program Adequacy and Independence Criteria: Monitoring Rule Requirements and Implementing Instructions Revised June 30, 2009 (PDF) (9pp, 51k)