Annual Guide 2025 I SOURCE TESTING ASSOCIATION


STA’s Role in Standardisation


By the late 1990s, the STA broadened its scope to encompass the international landscape, marking a signifi cant evolution in its mission. Recognising the absence of UK representation in the standardisation of stack testing, the STA took proactive steps to fi ll this void. This move led to active participation in collaborations with major global standard-setting bodies, including the European Committee for Standardization (CEN) and the International Organization for Standardization (ISO).


Dave Curtis at CEM 2001 STA’s Core Aims and Objectives


The STA is committed to elevating the fi eld of emission monitoring and upholding exceptional service standards. Its primary objectives include:


• Developing comprehensive industry standards and safety procedures.


• Promoting personal and professional development for both testers and students.


• Ensuring members maintain up-to-date knowledge on sampling methodologies.


• Upholding ethical conduct throughout the industry.


• Collaborating with professional organisations and regulatory bodies on a global scale.


Member Benefi ts


The STA provides a robust array of benefi ts designed to support its members and enhance their professional capabilities. Key member benefi ts include:


• Access to expert technical advice on emission monitoring practices.


• Opportunities to participate in conferences and exhibitions relevant to the industry.


• Comprehensive training programs and seminars focusing on various aspects of emission monitoring.


• Representation within National, European, and International standards organisations to shape and infl uence industry practices.


• Active liaison with UK and international regulatory bodies to keep members informed and compliant with the latest regulations.


By joining the STA, members commit to maintaining:


• The use of appropriate and validated testing protocols and methods.


• Reliable, state-of-the-art sampling and analysis equipment.


• Employment of qualifi ed, experienced personnel to uphold high standards in testing and analysis.


During this period, the STA’s infl uence was pivotal in the drafting of critical standards such as EN 1911, which focuses on the measurement of gaseous compounds in emissions, and EN 13284, which pertains to the determination of low dust concentrations. The creation and refi nement of these standards were complex, multi-year projects that spanned over a decade and underscored the STA’s dedication to meticulous, high-quality work.


Today, the STA remains at the forefront of international standardisation efforts, ensuring that the UK maintains a strong voice in the development of global stack testing practices. Its enduring involvement refl ects a commitment to advancing precision, safety, and best practices across the industry, reinforcing its role as a leader in the emission monitoring sector.


Health and Safety Initiatives


In its early years, health and safety considerations were not a major focus within the emission monitoring industry. However, a tragic incident involving a fatal fall from height served as a critical wake-up call, prompting signifi cant changes. In response, the STA established the Health and Safety Task Group (HSTG), which developed the industry’s fi rst health and safety guide—a concise 12-page booklet that laid the foundation for safer practices. This initial effort evolved into what is now known as the comprehensive “Yellow Book.”


The “Yellow Book” has become an essential resource in the fi eld and is recognised as a standard within the UK’s Monitoring Certifi cation Scheme (MCERTS). This guide is widely adopted across the industry and outlines key safety protocols to ensure the well-being of professionals in various operational contexts. Its comprehensive coverage includes:


1. Introduction – Overview of health and safety principles. 2. The Basics of Risk Assessment – Frameworks for evaluating potential risks.


3. General Site Hazards – Common dangers present at worksites.


4. Physical Hazards at the Stack – Safety measures for work performed at heights.


5. Chemical Hazards at the Stack – Protective strategies against exposure.


6. Chemical Hazards in the Laboratory – Ensuring safe handling within lab environments.


7. Weather, Environment, and Welfare – Addressing environmental factors and worker welfare.


This guide has played a crucial role in raising safety standards and embedding best practices within the emission monitoring industry.


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