Why Is It Important To Test Your Vehicle For Emissions?
If you’re trying to learn more about vehicle emissions testing in South Africa, you are in the right place.
Emissions from your vehicle can contain harmful pollutants that can impact the quality of the air we breathe. Excessive pollutants indicate that your vehicle may need maintenance to prevent mechanical failure.
In this article, we will explore some of the reasons why vehicle emissions testing is essential. By the end of this article, you will better understand why emissions testing is crucial to your business operations and the environment.
What Is A Vehicle Emissions Test?
Vehicle Emissions Testing (VET) determines the opacity (darkness) of the exhaust fumes emitted by diesel-powered engines.
The emitted smoke’s opacity is an indicator of the engine’s condition.
The higher the opacity of the smoke, the more carbon black particulates are emitted. This is a good indication of an existing internal problem or that a problem is developing inside the vehicle.
Such issues can shorten the engine lifespan or result in unnecessary costs unless remedial action is taken.
How Is A Vehicle Emissions Test Performed?
Vehicle Emissions Testing is a simple procedure that takes less than 5 minutes per vehicle.
At Apex Environmental, we utilise the TEXA OPABOX Autopower. This is the latest exhaust gas analyser from TEXA, an Italian company with 30 years of design, industrialisation, and manufacturing of exhaust gas analysers.
The opacity of the smoke being emitted from a diesel-powered engine is measured through an optical sensor. This sensor measures the opacity of the smoke as it passes through it.
The opacity is then compared to municipalities’ limits to determine if the vehicle is compliant or non-compliant.
Why Is It Important To Test Your Vehicle For Emissions?
There are a few reasons why it is essential to test your vehicle for emissions. They include:
Comply With The Law
In South Africa, vehicle emissions tests are a legal requirement.
Section 8 (a)(ii) of the National Environmental Management: Air Quality Act (2004) (NEMA) requires that national standards be established for municipalities to monitor point, non-point, and mobile source emissions.
Along with the NEMA regulations, companies that are ISO 14001 accredited perform vehicle emission testing to comply with their ISO 14001 accreditation.
Improve Efficiency
Emissions testing can help improve the efficiency of your vehicle, which can save you money in the long run.
By ensuring that your vehicle is running as efficiently as possible, you can reduce your fuel consumption and emissions. A less efficient engine will burn more fuel, resulting in more emissions.
In addition, testing can also identify any issues with your vehicle that may be causing it to run less efficiently. For example, a dirty air filter can restrict airflow and cause your engine to work harder than it needs to.
Vehicle emissions testing helps improve air quality and saves you money on fuel costs in the long run.
Protect Your Workers
The health of your employees is vital to you and your business. When your employees are exposed to air pollution, they may suffer from several health problems, including respiratory illnesses and heart disease.
These diseases can lead to missed workdays, decreased productivity, high healthcare costs, and potential claims against your business.
One of the best ways to protect your employees is to ensure that your vehicles are not emitting harmful pollutants. Having your vehicle’s emissions tested can help keep your employees healthy and productive.
Create A Positive Image
Today, people are more concerned than ever about the environment. When your business is seen as taking steps to reduce air pollution, you will create a positive image that can attract new customers and partners.
By testing your vehicles for emissions, you send a message that you care about the environment and take steps to protect it. This can help you stand out from your competition and build a strong reputation.
Positive marketing comes with many perks, including more significant contracts, referrals, happier clients, enhanced relationships with vendors, and increased sales.
Schedule Your Vehicle Emissions Test Today
Not everyone can do a vehicle emissions test. Testing should be left to the professionals who have the skills, equipment, certification, and experience to do the job right.
At Apex Environmental, we are a SANAS Accredited Inspection Body (No. OH 0084) qualified to perform vehicle emissions tests. We use state-of-the-art equipment to ensure accurate results.
Don’t wait to get your vehicle emissions tested. Schedule a test today to help protect the environment, your employees, and your business. You’ll be glad you did.