Circular No. 10/2021/TT-BTNMT on technical procedures for environmental monitoring and management of monitoring information and data on environmental quality

 CIRCULAR

Technical regulations for environmental monitoring and management of monitoring information and data

_______________________

MINISTER OF NATURAL RESOURCES AND ENVIRONMENT

Pursuant to the Environmental Protection Law on June 23, 2014;

Pursuant to the Environmental Protection Law dated November 17, 2020;

On the basis of Decision No. 36/2017/NĐ-CP dated April 4, 2017, of the Government stipulating the functions, tasks, powers, and organizational structure of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment;

Pursuant to Decree No. 127/2014/NĐ-CP dated December 31, 2014 of the Government stipulating conditions for organizations operating environmental monitoring services;

Pursuant to Decree No. 38/2015/NĐ-CP dated April 24, 2015 of the Government on waste management;

Pursuant to Decree No. 73/2017/NĐ-CP dated June 14, 2017 of the Government on the collection, management, exploration, and utilization of information and data on natural resources and the environment;

Pursuant to Decree No. 40/2019/NĐ-CP dated May 13, 2019 of the Government amending and supplementing certain articles of decrees detailing and guiding the implementation of the Law on Environmental Protection;

At the proposal of the Director General of the General Department of Environment, the Head of the Science and Technology Department, and the Head of the Legal Department;

The Minister of Natural Resources and Environment promulgates this Circular stipulating technical regulations for environmental monitoring and management of environmental monitoring information and data.

PART I

GENERAL PROVISIONS

Article 1. Scope of Regulation

This Circular stipulates technical regulations for environmental monitoring and management of environmental quality monitoring information and data, including:

1. Technical regulations for environmental monitoring of ambient air quality, noise and vibration, surface water, groundwater, seawater, rainwater, soil, sediment.

2. Technical regulations for monitoring persistent organic pollutants (POPs) in accordance with the Stockholm Convention and materials, fuels, substances, products, goods, equipment containing POPs.

3. Technical regulations for environmental monitoring of industrial wastewater, exhaust gas, sludge from wastewater treatment systems.

4. Regulations on ensuring and controlling the quality of environmental monitoring.

5. Requirements and technical characteristics of automatic and continuous ambient air quality and surface water quality monitoring stations.

6. Basic requirements and technical characteristics of automatic and continuous wastewater and exhaust gas monitoring systems.

7. Requirements for receiving, transmitting, and managing automatic and continuous environmental monitoring data.

8. Management, provision, and sharing of environmental quality monitoring information and data.

Article 2. Applicability

This Circular applies to organizations and individuals related to environmental monitoring activities.

Chapter II of this Circular does not apply to environmental monitoring of offshore oil and gas activities.

Article 3. Principles for applying environmental monitoring methods

1. Application of environmental monitoring methods must comply with the methods prescribed in this Circular and current national technical standards on the environment.

2. International, regional, or foreign national standard methods may be accepted for application if they have equivalent or higher accuracy than the standard methods prescribed in this Circular.

3. If the environmental monitoring methods prescribed in this Circular are amended, supplemented, or replaced, the new methods shall be applied.

4. For environmental monitoring programs that include parameters not covered by the technical monitoring regulations in this Circular, national or international standard methods must be applied.

Article 4. Explanation of terms

The terms used in this Circular are understood as follows:

1. Quality Assurance (QA) in environmental monitoring: is an integrated system of management and technical activities within an organization aimed at ensuring that environmental monitoring activities meet specified quality standards.

2. Quality Control (QC) in environmental monitoring: involves implementing measures to assess, monitor, and promptly adjust to achieve consistency and accuracy in measurements to ensure that environmental monitoring activities meet the prescribed quality standards.

3. Quality Control Sample (QC sample): is either a real sample or a sample created from a standard used to control quality during field monitoring processes and laboratory environmental analysis.

4. Precision: is the degree of closeness between independent test results obtained under specified conditions.

5. Repeatability: is precision under repeated conditions.

6. Reproducibility: is precision under reproducible conditions.

7. Accuracy: is the degree of closeness between test results and an accepted reference value.

8. Sample Batch: is a group of actual samples processed and analyzed under the same conditions, using the same procedures and methods within the same time frame. Each analytical sample batch must include quality control samples (QC samples).

9. Field Blank Sample: is a clean material sample used to control contamination during field monitoring processes. Field blank samples are handled, stored, transported, and analyzed in the laboratory under similar conditions as actual samples.

10. Field Replicate/Duplicate Sample: are two or more samples taken from the same location at the same time, processed, stored, transported, and analyzed under similar conditions in the laboratory. Field replicate samples are used to control errors in field monitoring activities, laboratory analysis, and to evaluate the precision of monitoring results.

11. Trip Blank Sample: is a clean material sample used to control contamination during sample transportation. Trip blank samples are transported under the same conditions as actual samples, stored, and analyzed in the laboratory under similar conditions as actual samples.

12. Equipment Blank Sample: is a clean material sample used to control contamination from sampling equipment, evaluate equipment stability and interference. Equipment blank samples are processed like actual samples using sampling equipment, stored, transported, and analyzed in the laboratory like actual samples.

13. Method Blank Sample: is a clean material sample used to control contamination from tools and chemicals, standards during sample analysis. Method blank samples undergo the same processing and analysis steps as actual samples.

14. Laboratory replicate/duplicate sample method: includes two or more portions of the same homogenized sample analyzed using the same method. The laboratory replicate sample method is a sample used to evaluate the precision of analytical results.

15. Reference material: is a material sufficiently homogeneous and stable with respect to one or more specified properties, established for use in a measurement process.

16. Certified reference material (CRM): is a reference material accompanied by a certificate, in which one or more values of its properties are certified, whereby the property values are stated and each certified value is accompanied by information on the corresponding level of uncertainty at the specified confidence level.

17. Laboratory control sample: is a sample prepared from a reference material with a known concentration, within the measuring range of the equipment or calibration curve working range, used to check the operation of the equipment and monitor the analytical process.

18. Spike sample/matrix spike: is a sample supplemented with a known quantity of the analyte at a known concentration on a real sample matrix. A spike sample is prepared and analyzed like a real sample to evaluate the analytical process.

19. Interlaboratory comparison: is the organization and evaluation of measurements or tests performed on the same test sample or similar samples by two or more laboratories under defined conditions.

20. Proficiency testing: is an activity that evaluates the performance of participants in measurement and analysis according to established criteria through interlaboratory comparisons.

21. Quality Assurance Project Plan (QAPP): is a plan describing all necessary quality assurance procedures, quality control activities, and other technical activities required to be carried out in an environmental monitoring program to ensure that the results obtained meet the requirements set forth.

22. Method Detection Limit (MDL): is the lowest concentration of a substance in a sample when analyzed, yielding a signal significantly different from the signal of a blank sample with 99% confidence, the concentration of the analyte being greater than 0 and determined from the analysis of a background sample containing the analyte.

23. Instrument Detection Limit (IDL): is the lowest value of an analyte that can be detected greater than five times the instrument noise signal.

24. Technical inspection: is the examination of the normal operating condition and adjustment mechanism of the measuring instrument according to technical documentation.

25. Calibration (initial calibration before use, periodic calibration during use, and calibration after repair): is the activity of evaluating, confirming the metrological characteristics of environmental monitoring equipment according to metrological requirements and implementing measures to control measurements.

26. Calibration: is the activity of determining and establishing the relationship between the measured value of the measurement standard, measuring instrument, and the value of the quantity to be measured.

27. Regular environmental monitoring: is the activity of sampling, measuring parameters directly at the site or preserving and transporting them back for processing and analyzing parameters in the laboratory according to a pre-established plan regarding space and time.

28. Automatic continuous monitoring: is the continuous measurement and analysis over time of environmental parameters using automatic measuring or analytical devices.

29. Fixed automatic monitoring station/system: is a monitoring station/system installed permanently and long-term at a specific location and capable of automatically monitoring environmental parameters.

30. Isokinetic sampling method: is a sampling method ensuring that the suction velocity of the sampling pump at the sampling point equals the exhaust gas velocity at the sampling point.

31. Direct measuring device: is a device placed in the environment to be measured and immediately displays the value of the measured parameter.

32. Resolution of a measuring device: is the smallest change in measured values (not zero) that a measuring device can respond to provide a definite measurement.

33. Response time: is the period between the moment when the input quantity of the measuring instrument or measurement system suddenly changes between two constant values and the moment when the corresponding reading falls within the specified limits around the final stable value.

34. Measuring range (working range) of a measuring device: is the set of values of the same type of quantity that can be measured by a given automatic monitoring device with a specific measurement uncertainty, under defined conditions.

Measurement traceability: is the characteristic of a measurement result that allows it to be related to a reference standard (international measurement standard or national measurement standard) through a continuous chain of calibrations documented, each calibration contributing to the measurement uncertainty.

Chapter II

TECHNICAL ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY MONITORING METHODS

Article 5. Establishing a regular environmental quality monitoring program

1. The regular environmental quality monitoring program shall be designed to align with the objectives of environmental monitoring. Determining the objectives of environmental quality monitoring must be based on current environmental protection policies and laws, strategies, planning, management and protection plans for the environment, environmental quality monitoring network planning, and information required to be collected according to the requirements of state agencies responsible for the environment.

2. Based on the objectives of environmental quality monitoring, current national technical standards, local technical standards, and the requirements of competent authorities, the parameters to be monitored should be determined and included in the monitoring program at appropriate frequencies.

3. National and provincial-level regular environmental quality monitoring programs serving state management of the environment must be established in accordance with the environmental quality monitoring network planning.

4. The regular environmental quality monitoring program must include the establishment of implementation plans to ensure quality and quality control measures as specified in Appendix 1 attached to this Circular.

Article 6. Ambient Air Quality Monitoring

1. Ambient air quality monitoring parameters and methods are stipulated in Appendix 2.1 attached to this Circular and other parameters according to national technical standards on ambient air quality or as required by environmental quality monitoring programs.

2. For national-level and central city-level environmental quality monitoring programs, at least the following parameters must be selected: meteorological conditions, SO₂, CO, NO_x, TSP, PM₁₀ with a minimum monitoring frequency of twice every two months (six times per year). Depending on the monitoring program's objectives and the characteristics of the monitoring location, additional parameters may be chosen to be included in the monitoring program at appropriate frequencies.₂, CO, NO₂, TSP, PM_2,5 with a minimum monitoring frequency of 02 months/session (06 sessions/year). Depending on the objectives of the monitoring program and the characteristics of the monitoring location, additional parameters may be selected to include in the monitoring program at appropriate frequencies.

3. For provincial-level environmental quality monitoring programs, at least the following parameters must be selected: meteorological conditions, SO₂ with a minimum monitoring frequency of twice every two months (six times per year). Depending on the monitoring program's objectives and the characteristics of the monitoring location, additional parameters such as PM₁₀ and others may be chosen to be included in the monitoring program at appropriate frequencies.₂, CO, NO₂, TSP, PM₁₀with a minimum monitoring frequency of 02 months/session (06 sessions/year). Depending on the objectives of the monitoring program and the characteristics of the monitoring location, additional parameter PM_2,5  and other parameters may be selected to include in the monitoring program at appropriate frequencies.

Article 7. Noise and Vibration Monitoring

1. Noise monitoring parameters include: equivalent sound level (Leq), maximum equivalent sound level (Lmax).

2. Vibration monitoring parameters: vibration acceleration level (dB) or vibration acceleration (m/s²).²).

3. Noise monitoring methods shall comply with TCVN 7878 (consisting of two parts TCVN 7878-1:2018 and TCVN 7878-2:2018) - Acoustics - Description, measurement, and assessment of environmental noise.

3. Noise monitoring methods follow TCVN 7878 (including two parts TCVN 7878-1:2018 and TCVN 7878-2:2018) - Acoustics - Description, measurement, and assessment of environmental noise.

4. Vibration monitoring methods follow TCVN 6963:2001 - Vibration and shock - Vibration caused by construction and industrial production activities - Measurement method.

Article 8. Surface water quality monitoring

1. The parameters and methods for surface water quality monitoring are specified in Appendix 2.2 attached to this Circular, and other parameters according to national technical regulations on surface water quality or the requirements of environmental quality monitoring programs.

2. For national and provincial-level environmental quality monitoring programs, at least the following parameters must be selected: pH, TSS, DO, COD, BOD5, NH3; select either Total Nitrogen or NO3; select either Total Phosphorus or PO4; total coliforms with a minimum monitoring frequency of 02 months/period (06 periods/year). Depending on the objectives of the monitoring program and the characteristics of the monitoring location, additional parameters may be chosen to include in the monitoring program at appropriate frequencies.₄⁺; select Total Nitrogen or NO₃^-; select Total Phosphorus or PO₄^3-; total coliforms with a minimum monitoring frequency of 02 months/session (06 sessions/year). Depending on the objectives of the monitoring program and the characteristics of the monitoring location, additional parameters may be selected to include in the monitoring program at appropriate frequencies.

Article 9. Groundwater quality monitoring

1. The parameters and methods for groundwater quality monitoring are specified in Appendix 2.3 attached to this Circular, and other parameters according to national technical regulations on groundwater quality or the requirements of environmental quality monitoring programs.

2. For national and provincial-level environmental quality monitoring programs, at least the following parameters must be selected: pH, TDS, permanganate index, NH4, Fe, As with a minimum monitoring frequency of 03 months/period (04 periods/year). Depending on the objectives of the monitoring program and the characteristics of the monitoring location, additional parameters may be chosen to include in the monitoring program at appropriate frequencies.₄⁺), nitrite (NO₃^-, Fe, As with a minimum monitoring frequency of 03 months/session (04 sessions/year). Depending on the objectives of the monitoring program and the characteristics of the monitoring location, additional parameters may be selected to include in the monitoring program at appropriate frequencies.

Article 10. Marine water quality monitoring

1. The parameters and methods for marine water quality monitoring are specified in Appendix 2.4 attached to this Circular, and other parameters according to national technical regulations on marine water quality or the requirements of environmental quality monitoring programs.

2. For national and provincial-level environmental quality monitoring programs, at least the following parameters must be selected: pH, DO, TSS, NH4, PO4, mineral oil, with a minimum monitoring frequency of 02 months/period (06 periods/year) for nearshore marine water quality; parameters pH, As, Cd, mineral oil for nearshore and offshore marine water with a minimum frequency of 02 periods/year. Depending on the objectives of the monitoring program and the characteristics of the monitoring location, additional parameters may be chosen to include in the monitoring program at appropriate frequencies.₄⁺, PO₄^3-, mineral oil, with a minimum monitoring frequency for coastal seawater quality of 02 months/session (06 sessions/year); parameters pH, As, Cd, mineral oil for nearshore and offshore seawater with a minimum frequency of 02 sessions/year. Depending on the objectives of the monitoring program and the characteristics of the monitoring location, additional parameters may be selected to include in the monitoring program at appropriate frequencies.

Article 11. Rainwater monitoring

1. The parameters and methods for rainwater monitoring are specified in Appendix 2.5 attached to this Circular, and other parameters according to the requirements of environmental quality monitoring programs.

2. Based on the monitoring objectives and the requirements of competent state agencies, the parameters to be monitored shall be determined.

3. Frequency and time of sampling:

a) Rainwater samples per storm: each rainwater sample is taken during each storm and the start and end times of each storm must be determined;

b) Daily rainwater samples: if it is not possible to collect and analyze samples for each storm, daily samples (continuously over 24 hours) can be collected. Sampling time for a day starts at 8 am and the sample must remain intact during and after collection (kept cold or preserved with suitable preservatives);

c) Weekly rainwater samples: if it is not possible to collect and analyze daily samples, weekly samples can be collected (combining daily samples within one week or continuously over one week when the sample remains intact during and after collection, kept cold or preserved with suitable preservatives).

Article 12. Soil Quality Monitoring

1. The monitoring parameters and methods for soil quality monitoring are specified in Appendix 2.6 attached to this Circular, and other parameters according to national technical standards on permissible limits of certain pollutants in soil or as required by environmental quality monitoring programs.

2. Based on the monitoring objectives, current national technical standards on the environment, and the requirements of competent state authorities, determine the monitoring parameters with a minimum frequency of two rounds per year.

Article 13. Sediment Quality Monitoring

1. The monitoring parameters and methods for sediment quality monitoring are specified in Appendix 2.7 attached to this Circular, and other parameters according to national technical standards on sediment quality or as required by environmental quality monitoring programs.

2. Based on the monitoring objectives, current national technical standards on the environment, and the requirements of competent state authorities, determine the monitoring parameters with a minimum frequency of two rounds per year.

Chapter III

TECHNIQUES FOR MONITORING PERSISTENT ORGANIC POLLUTANTS (POPs) IN RAW MATERIALS, FUELS, MATERIALS, PRODUCTS, GOODS, AND EQUIPMENT

Article 14. List of POPs and raw materials, fuels, materials, products, goods, and equipment containing POPs as stipulated by the Stockholm Convention

The list of POPs, areas of use, generation of POPs as stipulated in Appendices A, B, and C of the Stockholm Convention, and raw materials, fuels, materials, products, goods, and equipment containing POPs are specified in Appendix 3.1 attached to this Circular.

Article 15. Monitoring of POPs in raw materials, fuels, materials, products, goods, and equipment

1. The monitoring methods for POPs in raw materials, fuels, materials, products, goods, and equipment are specified in Appendix 3.2 attached to this Circular.

2. Based on the monitoring objectives, national technical standards on the environment, relevant national and international standards, and the requirements of competent state authorities, monitor POPs in raw materials, fuels, materials, products, goods, and equipment.

Chapter IV

TECHNIQUES FOR MONITORING WASTEWATER, EMISSIONS, AND SLUDGE FROM WATER TREATMENT SYSTEMS

Article 16. Wastewater Monitoring

1. The monitoring parameters and methods for wastewater monitoring are specified in Appendix 4.1 attached to this Circular, and other parameters according to national technical standards on the environment for wastewater or as required by environmental monitoring programs.

2. Based on the monitoring objectives, current national technical standards on the environment, type of production, scale, characteristics of the source of pollution, and the requirements of competent state authorities, determine the necessary monitoring parameters and sampling locations.

3. The frequency of wastewater monitoring shall be carried out in accordance with the provisions of current laws.

Article 17. Emissions Monitoring

1. The monitoring parameters and methods for emissions monitoring are specified in Appendix 4.2 attached to this Circular, and other parameters according to national technical standards on the environment for emissions or as required by environmental monitoring programs.

2. Based on the monitoring objectives, current national technical standards on the environment, type of production, scale, characteristics of the source of pollution, and the requirements of competent state authorities, determine the necessary monitoring parameters.

3. For parameters such as SO₂), nitrite (NO_x (NO and NO₂), CO and O₂: in addition to taking samples at the site and analyzing them in the laboratory, direct measurement methods can be used at the site when all conditions specified in Appendix 6 attached to this Circular are met.

4. Emission samples must be taken during stable operation of the facility at a minimum of 50% of its design capacity.

5. The frequency of emissions monitoring shall be carried out in accordance with the provisions of current laws.

6. The flue must have a sampling point (door) with a diameter or width as prescribed, equipped with a cover to adjust the opening width, and arranged with a safe and convenient work platform for sample collection. The location of the sampling point, diameter or width are specified in Appendix 5 attached to this Circular.

Article 18. Monitoring of sludge discharged from wastewater treatment systems

1. The monitoring parameters and methods for sludge discharged from wastewater treatment systems are specified in Appendix 4.3 attached to this Circular and other parameters according to national technical regulations on the environment for sludge discharged from wastewater treatment systems or as required by environmental monitoring programs.

2. Based on current national technical regulations on the environment, production type, scale, characteristics of the source of pollution, and requirements of competent state agencies, the necessary monitoring parameters shall be determined to distinguish sludge discharged from wastewater treatment systems in accordance with waste management regulations.

Chapter V

ENSURING QUALITY AND QUALITY CONTROL IN ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING

Article 19. Requirements for laboratory area, environmental protection work, and labor safety

1. Organizations participating in environmental monitoring activities must have laboratories with sufficient space to reasonably arrange functional zones, separate incompatible testing activities to avoid mutual interference, and provide adequate space for each testing activity as required.

2. Waste from laboratory operations must be classified according to their properties, collected, stored, transported, and treated in accordance with the law. Hazardous wastewater from analytical and testing activities in the laboratory must be classified and stored separately according to their properties and components to prevent chemical interactions that could produce harmful substances in the environment.

3. Activities involving sample processing and analysis that cause hazardous substances to evaporate into the environment must be conducted in fume hoods.

4. Programs, rules, and regulations on fire prevention and labor safety must be established in laboratories and during field monitoring activities to inform and guide all workers, and ensure that those conducting field monitoring and laboratory analysis are fully equipped with personal protective equipment.

5. Individuals participating in field monitoring activities must be trained in labor safety in accordance with the Labor Safety and Health Law and related legal provisions.

Article 20. Environmental Monitoring Quality Management System

1. Organizations participating in environmental monitoring activities must apply a quality management system according to ISO/IEC 17025:2017 or equivalent standards to establish an internal quality management system to ensure the quality of monitoring results. The quality management system must be documented and communicated to employees for implementation. The quality management system must be maintained and continuously improved in line with the scope of activities to ensure the objectivity and accuracy of monitoring results.

2. Annually, organizations must develop plans and conduct internal assessments of their quality management systems. Assessments include reviewing relevant documentation files on quality management and evaluating environmental monitoring activities to check and confirm the organization's compliance with quality management system requirements. After assessment, organizations must take corrective and improvement measures for any identified issues.

Article 21. Proficiency Testing Activities

1. An organization that has been issued a Certificate of Qualification for Environmental Monitoring Services must participate in proficiency testing programs organized by units with appropriate competence according to ISO/IEC 17043:2010. Within the validity period of the Certificate, the Organization must participate in at least one proficiency testing program for each parameter group that has been certified, as follows:

a) Participate at least once per year in the analysis of parameters within the basic parameter group, including: BOD, COD, TSS, NH₅, Cl₃⁺.^-, F^-), nitrite (NO₃^-), nitrite (NO₂^-, PO₄^3-;

b) Participate at least once per year in the analysis of parameters within the metal parameter group, including: As, Cd, Pb, Total Cr, Cu, Zn, Ni, Mn, Hg, Fe;

c) Participate at least once during the validity period of the Certificate in the analysis of parameters within the certified parameter group, including: Total Phenol, Cyanide (CN^-), surfactants, chlorinated pesticides, phosphorus-based pesticides, PCB, Dioxin, PAHs.

2. For parameters specified in Point c Clause 1 of this Article but for which there are no domestic units with sufficient capacity to organize proficiency testing programs, the organization may participate in inter-laboratory testing programs with a minimum of three participating laboratories or participate in proficiency testing programs organized by international organizations with appropriate competence according to ISO/IEC 17043:2010.

3. In cases where the absolute value of the result of participation in the proficiency testing program │Z_score│ > 2, the organization must take corrective and preventive measures against the discovered errors.

Article 22. Quality Assurance and Quality Control in On-Site Monitoring Activities

Organizations conducting on-site monitoring activities must comply with the following requirements for quality assurance and quality control:

1. Assign specific tasks to staff responsible for environmental monitoring. The person conducting on-site monitoring must be trained in a relevant field and only officially assigned to conduct on-site monitoring when assessed as meeting internal criteria and having successfully completed training courses on safety for fieldwork.

2. Prepare all necessary documentation, equipment, tools, chemicals, standards, transportation means, and personal protective equipment according to the established on-site monitoring program and plan.

3. Chemicals, standard samples, and standards must be prepared in accordance with the requirements of each monitoring method, stored in suitable containers labeled with full information including: name or type of chemical, standard sample, standard; manufacturer's name; concentration; preparation date; preparer; usage period, and other relevant information. These items must be stored separately, properly preserved, and kept safe. The monitoring unit must maintain a chemical inventory record showing the quantity of chemicals, standard samples, and standards received and used, regularly conducting stocktaking and tracking the usage period of these items.

4. Ensure that equipment is calibrated and maintained according to regulations before going to the site.

5. Collect samples using appropriate methods. Sample containers must be clean and suitable for each monitored parameter, not affecting or altering the quality of the sample, and must be labeled for identification. Labels must include information about the monitored parameter, sample code (sample symbol), sampling time, and other relevant information.

6. Quality control samples (QC samples) collected on-site must be blank transport samples, blank equipment samples, blank site samples, replicate site samples, or other QC samples as required by the monitoring program or quality assurance program for on-site monitoring. Programs with fewer than 30 samples must collect at least one replicate site sample (except technical samples that cannot be replicated such as exhaust gas, dust, etc.) and one blank site sample or blank equipment sample. Programs with 30 or more samples must collect 10% of the total number of samples as QC samples. QC samples must be handled, coded, and analyzed in the laboratory like other samples.

7. Field measurement and sampling records must be completed immediately after sample collection. The format of the on-site monitoring record is specified in Tables 2, 3, and 4 of Appendix 5 attached to this Circular.

8. Sample preservation and transportation methods: Samples must be preserved and pre-treated appropriately at the site according to the monitored parameters. Transportation must preserve the quality and quantity of the samples. Transportation time and temperature during transportation must comply with sampling, analysis standards, or current regulations for each monitored parameter. A reasonable transportation plan must be implemented to ensure the analysis time after sample collection for certain monitored parameters.

9. Sample handover: There must be a handover record signed by all relevant parties.

10. On-site monitoring methods must be selected appropriately and defined in Appendices 2, 3, and 4 attached to this Circular. For on-site measurements, standard solutions (standard solutions, standard gases) must be used to control the quality of on-site measurement results. When conducting on-site measurements, repeated measurements must be performed to obtain the average of the measurement results.

Article 23. Quality Assurance and Quality Control in Environmental Analysis Activities

Organizations conducting environmental analysis activities must implement quality assurance and quality control requirements as follows:

1. Assign specific tasks to staff members responsible for environmental analysis. The person conducting the analysis must be trained in the field of environmental analysis appropriate to the assigned work and can only officially perform analysis after being assessed as meeting internal criteria standards.

2. Analytical methods must be approved to assess suitability based on actual laboratory application conditions before implementation. Method approval must be documented in a report as stipulated in Appendix 7 issued with this Circular.

3. Develop Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for approved analytical methods. A minimum SOP must include contents as prescribed in Appendix 8 issued with this Circular.

4. Chemicals, standard samples, and reference materials: must be prepared fully according to each monitoring method's specifications, stored in suitable containers with labels indicating full information such as: name or type of chemical, standard sample, reference material; manufacturer’s name; concentration; preparation date; preparer; usage period and other relevant information (if applicable). Chemicals, standard samples, and reference materials must be placed in separate areas, properly stored, ensuring safety. The monitoring unit must maintain a chemical inventory record showing quantities of chemicals, standard samples, and reference materials received and used, periodically conducting stocktaking and tracking usage periods.

5. Inspect, maintain, service, and calibrate environmental analysis equipment.

6. Monitor laboratory environmental conditions to ensure they do not affect analysis results or adversely impact the quality of analytical procedures.

7. Sample management: upon receipt for analysis, samples must meet preservation conditions suitable for each analysis parameter as specified. Samples must be coded, and sample codes must be attached to the samples throughout their storage time at the analysis organization. After completion of analysis, samples must be retained and preserved according to guidelines in corresponding analysis and sampling standards or current regulations for potential retesting and reanalysis.

8. Quality control in environmental analysis activities: in addition to on-site QC samples analyzed, laboratory QC samples must be analyzed in each batch of samples. The minimum number of QC samples required in each batch must be sufficient to check contamination from equipment, chemicals, reagents, influencing factors, and evaluate precision and accuracy of analysis results. Depending on the applied analytical method, laboratory QC samples include: blank equipment samples, blank method samples, replicate samples, spiked standard samples, certified standard samples, verification standard samples, or other QC samples as required by standard methods and monitoring programs or quality assurance programs established by the organization.

9. Establish quality control acceptance criteria according to standard method requirements and as stipulated in Appendix 9 issued with this Circular.

Article 24. Use and Management of Environmental Monitoring Equipment

1. Environmental monitoring equipment must ensure quality, standards, and technical regulations in accordance with current laws on product quality before being put into use. Environmental monitoring equipment must be controlled for measurement (calibration, verification, testing) in accordance with current laws on measurement.

2. The use of environmental monitoring equipment must comply with the manufacturer's user guide, usage procedures, and technical requirements for measurement as stipulated in Vietnamese measurement technical documents.

3. Prior to use, environmental monitoring equipment must be inspected (external inspection, technical inspection, and accuracy inspection). In cases where equipment does not meet the technical measurement requirements, it must be stopped from use, documented in a record, and kept in the environmental monitoring equipment management file.

4. Maintenance, repair, and replacement of environmental monitoring equipment: plans and implements regular maintenance, repair, and replacement of environmental monitoring equipment according to the manufacturer's guidelines and usage procedures.

5. Environmental monitoring equipment management files: organizations conducting environmental monitoring activities are responsible for establishing environmental monitoring equipment management files. These files are stored at the organization conducting environmental monitoring activities and are available for presentation upon request from competent state authorities. The management files include:

a) List and technical characteristics of monitoring equipment; manufacturer's user guide;

b) Standard operating procedures, inspection procedures;

c) Logbook for receiving, transferring, and using equipment;

d) Logbook for inspection, maintenance, repair, and replacement of spare parts;

đ) Measurement control records of monitoring equipment;

e) Certificates accompanied by calibration, verification, and testing reports and other documents proving ownership of the equipment.

Article 25. Management of Environmental Monitoring Data

1. Field monitoring data and environmental analysis results must be checked, statistically processed, and evaluated.

a) Result verification: comprehensive review of the rationality of monitoring and environmental analysis results based on sample documentation (field monitoring records, sample transfer and receipt records, field measurement records, laboratory analysis result logs, etc.) and quality control sample (QC) results (blank samples, replicate samples, standard samples, etc.);

b) Monitoring and environmental analysis results can only be accepted after reviewing and evaluating QC sample analysis results that ensure reliability according to laboratory quality control criteria;

c) Statistical processing: based on the number of samples and report content, statistical processing may use different methods but must minimally include minimum value, maximum value, average value, and number of values exceeding standards;

d) Result evaluation: comparing and cross-referencing monitored results, which have been checked and statistically processed, with relevant technical standards and regulations.

2. All documents, data, and files related to field monitoring and environmental analysis activities must be fully collected, ensuring authenticity and timeliness, and managed in accordance with regulations.

3. Original records of field monitoring and environmental analysis activities must be retained and made available to competent authorities upon request. Original records include:

a) Field monitoring records including: field sampling records, sample transfer and receipt records, field measurement result forms, field repeated sample measurement records (if applicable), original data stored in the memory of direct field measurement devices or directly backed up from the memory of direct field measurement devices, calculation and field monitoring results;

b) Environmental analysis records including: analysis records, analysis result reports, original data stored in the memory of analysis devices or directly backed up from the memory of analysis devices;

c) Records of quality assurance and control activities in field monitoring and environmental analysis must minimally include quality control sample collection and result records, field device calibration test results using standard substances, and quality control sample results during environmental analysis activities.

4. Data in field monitoring and environmental analysis activities must be complete and consistent with field monitoring records and environmental analysis records; consistent with sampling time and location and analysis time and parameters; consistent with monitoring methods and equipment; consistent with acceptance criteria for measurement results.

5. In cases of suspected errors in environmental monitoring activities, data must be rechecked or discarded and not used for reporting monitoring results. Initial documents and data before discarding must be retained as original records for reference in case of future inquiries.

Chapter VI

BASIC TECHNICAL REQUIREMENTS AND CHARACTERISTICS OF AUTOMATIC AND CONTINUOUS SURFACE WATER AND AIR QUALITY MONITORING STATIONS

Article 26. Basic requirements for automatic, continuous surface water quality monitoring stations

1. Measured parameters:

a) The mandatory parameter group includes the following parameters: temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen (DO), Total Suspended Solids (TSS), Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD);

b) In addition to the measured parameters specified in Point a Clause 1 of this Article, based on the monitoring objectives and characteristics of the monitored area, the automatic surface water monitoring station may measure other parameters including: turbidity, TDS, NH₄⁺, Total Nitrogen, Total Phosphorus, PO₄^3-), nitrite (NO₃^-, Total Organic Carbon (TOC) and other parameters according to the monitoring objectives.

2. Monitoring location and technical requirements:

a) Monitoring location:

Based on the monitoring objectives, agencies and organizations may install automatic, continuous surface water quality monitoring stations to monitor water quality changes and warn of environmental pollution risks, prioritizing the installation of automatic monitoring stations that meet the following criteria:

a1) Points upstream within the Water Supply Area Sanitation Protection Zone as stipulated by the Law on Water Resources;

a2) Upstream areas of rivers near borders with neighboring countries to monitor and assess water quality from bordering countries flowing into Vietnam;

a3) Points downstream adjacent to concentrated industrial production bases with large-scale effluent discharge, posing potential environmental risk hazards to monitor and promptly warn of environmental pollution incidents;

b) Technical requirements for monitoring locations:

b1) The installation site of the monitoring station must be selected based on considerations of feasibility in building the station, representativeness of sampling location, long-term monitoring needs, safety assurance, and operational cost maintenance;

b2) The installation site should have favorable conditions for transportation, electricity, clean water, telecommunications, appropriate distance to the monitoring point, ability to sample during dry seasons, safety in operation and maintenance, and other basic conditions ensuring the construction of the monitoring station house;

b3) For river-based monitoring stations, the monitoring location must be chosen at straight river sections with uniform water quality; stable flow velocity and regime, at least 1 km downstream from wastewater discharge points or river mouths. The selection of automatic monitoring locations must be consistent and comparable to the selection of conventional monitoring locations to ensure the continuity of monitoring data;

b4) For lake-based monitoring stations (static water sources), the monitoring location must be chosen in areas with good hydraulic exchange regimes, representative of lake water quality, avoiding locations in stagnant water zones, sedimentation-prone areas, or areas prone to aquatic plant proliferation.

3. Basic equipment requirements for automatic, continuous surface water quality monitoring stations:

a) Based on the measured parameters and the measurement and analysis principles of the monitoring equipment, determine the appropriate equipment installation plan, specifically:

- Direct method: sensors are placed directly at the surface water quality monitoring location; sensor placement must be at least 10 cm from the water surface and at least 15 cm from the bottom, taking into account measurement during low water periods;

- Indirect method: surface water is pumped into the monitoring station's sample container for direct measurement using submerged sensors or transferred to the automatic analysis system (if available);

b) Data acquisition, transmission, and management system (data logger): to collect, store, and transmit automatic, continuous monitoring data to the management agency. The data acquisition, transmission, and management system is detailed in Article 39 of this Circular;

c) Standard solutions for checking and calibrating the monitoring station's equipment;

d) Cameras: it is encouraged to install cameras to provide real-time images at the equipment monitoring station locations;

đ) Technical requirements for other auxiliary equipment for automatic, continuous surface water quality monitoring stations are specified in Appendix 10 issued together with this Circular.

Article 27. Technical characteristics requirements for automatic and continuous surface water quality monitoring stations

Automatic surface water quality monitoring stations must meet the following technical characteristic requirements at a minimum:

1. The technical characteristics of automatic and continuous surface water quality monitoring equipment must meet the following requirements:

Table 1. Technical characteristics of automatic and continuous surface water quality monitoring equipment

Where:

- Regarding the accuracy requirement of measuring devices in Table 1: the technical characteristics of the monitoring equipment can choose to apply accuracy based on reading value or accuracy based on measurement range;

- As for the measurement range regulation in Table 1: the measurement range specified in Table 1 is used as a reference. The automatic monitoring equipment must be able to set at least one measurement range with the upper limit of the measurement range not exceeding the upper limit of the measurement range specified in Table 1 and suitable for the monitoring objectives according to the National Technical Regulation on Surface Water Quality. The regulation on measurement range does not compulsorily apply to devices using accuracy based on reading value.

2. Calibration solution for testing and calibrating the monitoring equipment for parameters specified in Table 1 of the station must meet the following requirements:

- Must have a minimum accuracy of ± 5% (for pH it is ± 0.1 pH) and must be linked to standards according to the law on metrology;

- The calibration solution must meet at least one concentration point within the measurement range of each corresponding device for each parameter specified in Table 1, except for temperature parameter.

3. Encouraging the use of synchronous monitoring equipment from the same manufacturer and certified by international organizations including: United States Environmental Protection Agency (US EPA), British Certification Organization (mCERTs), German Technical Inspection Agency (TÜV).

4. Capable of automatically storing and exporting monitoring results and information on the status of measuring instruments (at a minimum including the following statuses: measuring, calibration, and equipment malfunction). Flow rate and temperature parameters do not require calibration status notification.

Article 28. Management and operation requirements for automatic and continuous surface water quality monitoring stations

1. Automatic and continuous surface water quality monitoring stations must have complete related files including: station information file, maintenance and replacement equipment file at the station, equipment file, technical design drawings, and operational, maintenance, replacement, and repair procedures.

2. Ensuring quality and quality control (QA/QC) for automatic and continuous surface water quality monitoring stations: before the station is put into operation, the station operator is responsible for establishing standard operating procedures (SOP) during station management and operation. Standard operating procedures must include the following contents: operation procedures, inspection procedures, maintenance of measuring heads and equipment, data management procedures, troubleshooting procedures.

3. Operation staff must be fully trained in station management and operation, troubleshooting, and occupational safety.

4. Regular verification, calibration, and inspection of automatic and continuous monitoring equipment

a) Equipment must be verified and calibrated according to current laws on metrology;

b) Equipment (except temperature measuring equipment) must be regularly inspected using calibration solutions as recommended by the manufacturer but must ensure at least once a month by the station operator; re-verification and calibration of measuring equipment must be carried out according to regulations when the measured value on the equipment differs from the concentration value of the calibration solution by ≥ 10%. It is encouraged to re-verify and calibrate measuring equipment when the measured value on the equipment differs from the concentration value of the calibration solution by < 10%. The process of inspecting equipment with calibration solutions and verifying and calibrating equipment must be recorded in the station operation logbook;

c) Encouraging regular inspection of equipment through cross-checking with periodic monitoring results according to the methods stipulated in Appendix 2.2 issued together with this Circular;

d) Maintenance, repair, and replacement of spare parts must be planned by the station operator and detailed in the standard operating procedure (SOP);

5. Station management and operation must have a complete operation logbook recording the following contents: the operational status of measuring equipment and other auxiliary equipment; data transmission and reception status at the station; equipment inspection process using calibration solutions and equipment verification and calibration (if applicable);

6. The station operator shall allocate personnel for station management and operation based on the scale and monitoring method of the station according to regulations on the usage quota of workshop area, equipment, and staffing for environmental monitoring stations.

Article 29. Classification of Automatic and Continuous Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Stations

Automatic and continuous ambient air quality monitoring stations are classified according to specific monitoring purposes as follows:

1. Ambient air quality monitoring stations are those that comply with the provisions set out in Point a Clause 1, Clause 2 Article 30 and Article 31 of this Circular for the purpose of regularly and continuously monitoring the air quality at the monitoring location and area, and using the data to provide information to state management agencies and publish regular and continuous air quality information to the public through the Air Quality Index (AQI).

2. Reference monitoring stations are ambient air quality monitoring stations that do not fully meet the technical requirements stipulated in Point a Clause 1, Clause 2 Article 30 and Article 31 of this Circular, used for internal monitoring purposes, scientific research, providing data for calculation models and pollution forecasts, and publishing monitoring data based on pollutant concentrations.

Article 30. Basic Requirements for Automatic and Continuous Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Stations

Automatic and continuous ambient air quality monitoring stations must meet the following basic requirements:

1. Measured parameters:

Based on the monitoring objectives and characteristics of the monitoring area, select appropriate environmental parameters to monitor in accordance with the provisions below:

a) The minimum group of parameters for air quality monitoring stations aimed at publishing information through the AQI index includes: particulate matter PM_2,5; ozone (O₃) and one of the three parameters nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), sulfur dioxide (SO₂), carbon monoxide (CO).

b) Other groups of parameters: total suspended particles (TSP), particulate matter PM₁₀, particulate matter PM₁, benzene (C₆H₆), toluene (C₇H₈), ethylbenzene (C₈H₁₀), xylene (C₈H₁₀), methane (CH₄) and other harmful parameters.

c) Depending on the monitoring objectives, reference monitoring stations may choose parameters specified in Point a and Point b Clause 1 of this Article.

2. Station Location: The station must be placed in a well-ventilated area where meteorological parameters can be measured without obstruction, meeting the monitoring objectives and representing the environmental quality of the monitoring area. Based on the monitoring objectives and technical requirements of each type of station, select an appropriate location, specifically as follows:

a) Background station: located in areas least affected by emissions sources;

b) Composite station: composite stations are located in areas influenced by multiple sources of impact (urban, residential, traffic, construction, industry, etc.);

c) Residential station: located in typical residential areas, not near major roads with heavy traffic;

d) Roadside station (traffic): located on straight sections of road, avoiding proximity to intersections and traffic nodes; located on highways and national roads with the highest traffic density in the region;

đ) Industrial station: located within the nearest residential area in the direction of the prevailing wind relative to the industrial zone and large emission sources. For high-stack emission sources, air pollution dispersion models may need to be used to determine the area with the highest pollution levels, from which the station location is determined.

3. Basic Equipment Requirements for Automatic and Continuous Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Stations:

a) Automatic and continuous monitoring equipment: consisting of one or more measuring and analyzing devices capable of automatically and continuously measuring and providing results for the parameters in the ambient air;

b) Data acquisition, transmission, and management system (data logger): for collecting, storing, and transmitting automatic and continuous monitoring data to environmental state agencies. The data acquisition, transmission, and management system is detailed in Article 39 of this Circular;

c) Calibration gas cylinders or other specialized standards: providing calibration standards for the monitoring equipment of the station;

d) Cameras: it is encouraged to install cameras to provide real-time images at the equipment monitoring station locations;

đ) Technical requirements for other auxiliary equipment for automatic and continuous ambient air quality monitoring stations are specified in Appendix 11 issued together with this Circular.

Article 31. Technical characteristics requirements for automatic and continuous ambient air quality monitoring stations

1. Automatic and continuous ambient air quality monitoring stations must use measuring devices listed in the Catalogue of Equivalent Methods and Equipment for Monitoring published by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (US EPA) or monitoring equipment certified by international organizations including the United Kingdom Accreditation Service (mCERTs) and the German Technical Inspection Association (TÜV).

2. The technical characteristics of automatic and continuous ambient air quality monitoring equipment must at least meet the following requirements:

Table 2. Technical characteristics for automatic and continuous ambient air quality monitoring equipment

Where:

- Regarding the accuracy requirement of the monitoring equipment in Table 2: the technical characteristics of the monitoring equipment can choose to apply accuracy according to reading value or accuracy according to measurement range;

- For the measurement range provision in Table 2: the measurement range specified in Table 2 is used as a reference. The automatic monitoring equipment must be able to set at least one measurement range with the upper limit of the measurement range not exceeding the upper limit of the measurement range specified in Table 2 and suitable for the monitoring objectives according to the National Technical Regulation on Ambient Air Quality. The measurement range provision is not mandatory for equipment using accuracy according to reading value.

3. Calibration standards

a) Calibration standards used to calibrate automatic ambient air quality monitoring equipment for parameters specified in Table 2;

b) Calibration standards must still be within their validity period, have a minimum accuracy of ± 5%, and must be traceable according to legal metrology regulations.

4. Capable of automatically storing and exporting monitoring results and device status information (at least including the following statuses: measuring, calibration, and device error report). Temperature parameter does not require calibration status reporting.

Article 32. Requirements for management and operation of automatic and continuous ambient air quality monitoring stations

1. The station must have all relevant files related to the station: Station information file, maintenance and replacement station file, equipment file, technical design drawings, and operational, maintenance, replacement, and repair procedures.

2. Quality assurance and quality control (QA/QC) for automatic and continuous ambient air quality monitoring stations: before the station is operated, the station operator is responsible for establishing standard operating procedures (SOP) during station management and operation. The SOP must include the following contents: operation procedures, inspection procedures, maintenance of measuring heads and equipment, data management procedures, and troubleshooting procedures.

3. Station operators must be fully trained in station management and operation, troubleshooting, and occupational safety.

4. Regular verification, calibration, and inspection of automatic and continuous monitoring equipment

a) Equipment must be verified and calibrated according to current laws on metrology;

b) Monitoring equipment (except temperature measuring devices and dust PM₁₀, particulate matter PM_2,5) must be periodically checked with calibration standards according to the manufacturer's recommendations but must ensure at least once every month by the station operator; recalibration and retesting of measuring devices must be performed when the measured value on the measuring device differs from the concentration value of the calibration standard by ≥ 10%. It is encouraged to recalibrate and retest measuring devices when the measured value on the measuring device differs from the concentration value of the calibration standard by less than 10%. The process of checking equipment with calibration standards and recalibrating and retesting equipment must be recorded in the station operation log;

c) Periodic checks are encouraged through comparison with periodic monitoring results according to the methods specified in Appendix 2.1 issued together with this Circular;

d) Maintenance, repair, and replacement activities must be planned by the operator and detailed in the standard operating procedure (SOP).

5. Station management and operation must have an operation log recording all contents: status of operation of measuring devices and other auxiliary devices; data transmission and reception status at the station; equipment calibration and testing process with calibration standards and equipment recalibration and retesting (if applicable).

6. Management and operation personnel: based on the scale and monitoring method of the station to allocate station management and operation staff according to regulations on area usage standards, equipment, and staffing for environmental monitoring stations.

Chapter VII

PROVISIONS ON BASIC REQUIREMENTS AND TECHNICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF AUTOMATIC AND CONTINUOUS WASTEWATER AND EMISSION MONITORING SYSTEMS

Article 33. Basic requirements for automatic and continuous wastewater monitoring systems

1. Monitoring parameters and locations: Based on the characteristics of the pollution source, the wastewater treatment system, and management requirements, the competent state agency shall require facilities to automatically monitor pollution parameters and determine the installation location of the automatic and continuous wastewater monitoring system in accordance with the provisions of the law.

2. Basic components of the automatic and continuous wastewater monitoring system:

a) Automatic and continuous monitoring equipment: Based on the monitored parameters and the measurement and analysis principles of the monitoring equipment, the appropriate installation method for the monitoring equipment is determined specifically as follows:

- Direct method: The monitoring equipment (pH probes, temperature sensors, etc.) is placed directly at the monitoring location after the wastewater treatment system. The placement of the probes must be at least 10 cm from the surface of the wastewater and at least 15 cm from the bottom.

- Indirect method: Wastewater after treatment is pumped up to the station house into a sample container for direct measurement using submerged probes or transferred to an automatic analysis system (if available).

b) Data reception, transmission, and management system: Used to collect, store, and transmit data from the automatic and continuous monitoring system to the state environmental management agency. The data reception, transmission, and management system is detailed in Article 39 of this Circular.

c) Calibration standards: For checking and calibrating the monitoring equipment of the system.

d) Automatic sampling device: To take and store water samples when any of the monitored parameters exceed the permissible standard limits or upon request of the competent state authority.

đ) Camera: To provide real-time images at the location of the monitoring equipment and the discharge outlet of the wastewater treatment system before being discharged into the receiving water body, specifically as follows:

đ1) In the case of direct installation: One camera is installed at the discharge outlet of the wastewater treatment system.

đ2) In the case of indirect installation: One camera is installed inside the station house and one camera is installed outside the station house at the discharge outlet of the wastewater treatment system.

đ3) The camera must ensure the ability to rotate (horizontally, vertically), have night vision capability, and clearly observe the objects under surveillance; it must also have the ability to record images over time and schedule recordings.

e) Technical requirements for other auxiliary devices for the automatic and continuous wastewater monitoring system are specified in Appendix 10 issued together with this Circular.

Article 34. Technical characteristics requirements for automatic and continuous wastewater monitoring systems

The automatic and continuous wastewater monitoring system must minimally meet the following technical characteristic requirements:

1. Automatic and continuous monitoring equipment

a) The technical characteristics of the automatic and continuous wastewater monitoring equipment in the system must minimally meet the following requirements:

Table 3. Technical characteristics of automatic and continuous wastewater monitoring equipment

Where:

Regarding the accuracy requirement of the measuring equipment in Table 3: the characteristics of the monitoring equipment can choose to apply accuracy according to the reading value or accuracy according to the measurement range.

b) The automatic monitoring equipment must have at least one measurement range capable of measuring values ≥ 3 times the limit value specified in the National Technical Regulation on the environment applicable to the facility (except for temperature and pH parameters).

c) It is encouraged to use synchronized monitoring equipment certified by international organizations including: United States Environmental Protection Agency (US EPA), UK Accreditation Service (mCERTs), German Technical Inspection Association (TÜV).

d) Must have the ability to automatically retain and export monitoring results and equipment status information (at least including the following statuses: measuring, calibration, and equipment fault report). Flow rate and temperature parameters do not require calibration status notification.

2. Calibration Standards

a) Periodic calibration standards must still be within their validity period, have a minimum accuracy of ± 5% (for pH, ± 0.1 pH), and must be linked to standards in accordance with legal metrology regulations.

b) Calibration standards must meet at least one concentration point within the measurement range of each corresponding equipment for each parameter specified in Table 3, except for temperature and flow rate parameters.

3. Automatic Sampling and Storage Device

The automatic sampling and storage device must have the following features:

a) Automatically take samples (periodically, suddenly, or at specific times) and store them in a refrigeration cabinet at 4 ± 2°C for a suitable time for analysis of the parameters.^°b) Have the ability to receive control signals from competent state authorities to facilitate remote automatic sampling.

c) The automatic sampling cabinet must be sealed and managed by the Department of Natural Resources and Environment.

c) Automatic sampling cabinets must be sealed and managed by the Department of Natural Resources and Environment.

Article 35. Requirements for Management and Operation of Automatic Continuous Wastewater Monitoring Systems

1. Setting the measurement range of the system: When operating the automatic continuous wastewater monitoring system to transmit data to the receiving unit, the equipment must be set with a measurement range capable of measuring values ≥ 3 times the limit value specified in the National Technical Regulations on the Environment applicable to the facility.

2. Ensuring the quality of the system

a) Management and operation personnel: There must be sufficient personnel knowledgeable about the system to perform management, maintenance, and operation tasks;

b) The management files of the system must be kept at the unit operating the system and ready for presentation upon request from competent state authorities. The management files include:

b1) List of monitored parameters;

b2) List and technical characteristics of monitoring equipment provided by the manufacturer;

b3) Equipment user guide;

b4) Design drawings and descriptions of the system;

b5) Standard Operating Procedure (SOP): At least including contents on startup and operation procedures of the system; daily inspection procedures of the system; frequency and procedures for checking the accuracy of equipment using standard solutions; procedures for preparing chemicals, standards, and calibration curves for analytical devices (if any); frequency and procedures for maintaining and servicing monitoring equipment; frequency and procedures for testing and calibrating equipment; frequency and procedures for replacing spare parts and consumables according to the manufacturer's recommendations; procedures for troubleshooting and resolving issues that arise; data backup procedures; data verification and reporting procedures; safety regulations during system operation; and procedures for storing, managing, and disposing of generated waste;

b6) Spare equipment and accessories;

b7) System operation logbook, maintenance, servicing, testing, and calibration equipment logbook;

b8) Handbook of common errors and methods to resolve issues during system management and operation;

b9) Daily activity tracking and inspection log of the system;

b10) Certificates attached with reports on the results of testing and calibrating system monitoring equipment as prescribed;

b11) Inspection records of the system using standard solutions.

3. Before the system is officially put into operation, the system operating unit must submit relevant documents to the Department of Natural Resources and Environment, including:

a) Information about the investment and operating units: name and address of the unit;

b) Installation time of the equipment (start time, end time) and the time and results of implementing system quality control in accordance with Clause 6 of this Article;

c) Design drawings and descriptions of the system; list of monitoring parameters and installation plans for monitoring equipment (direct or indirect); information description and images, diagrams, maps of the monitoring location;

d) List and technical characteristics of measuring and analyzing devices; manufacturer and model of the device; certificates attached with test and calibration device reports; data collection, storage system; static IP address (data transmission protocol) linked to the system.

4. Testing, calibration, trial, and periodic inspection of automatic continuous monitoring equipment

a) Equipment must be verified and calibrated according to current laws on metrology;

b) Equipment must be periodically checked using standard solutions according to the manufacturer's recommendation but must ensure at least once every month by the system operating unit; recalibration of the measuring device must be performed when the measured value on the measuring device differs from the concentration value of the standard solution by ≥ 10%. Recalibration of the measuring device is encouraged when the measured value on the measuring device differs from the concentration value of the standard solution by less than 10%. The process of checking equipment using standard solutions and testing and calibrating equipment must be recorded in the system operation logbook;

c) Periodic checks through cross-referencing with the results of monitoring parameters in the facility's regular environmental monitoring program (if available) are encouraged;

d) Maintenance, repair, and replacement of spare parts must be planned by the system operating unit and detailed in the standard operating procedure (SOP).

5. In cases where maintenance, testing, calibration, replacement of spare parts, repair, and replacement of measuring and analyzing devices are required, the facility owner must comply with the following requirements:

a) Submit a written notice to the Department of Natural Resources and Environment; clearly stating the implementation plan, end date for maintenance, testing, calibration, replacement of spare parts, repair, and replacement of measuring and analyzing devices;

b) During the period when the automatic continuous wastewater monitoring equipment is not operational for 48 hours or more, the facility owner must conduct manual monitoring at least once a day for parameters that cannot be measured by the automatic continuous wastewater monitoring equipment until the equipment resumes operation. The monitoring results must be retained and submitted to the Department of Natural Resources and Environment.

6. Quality control of the system before official operation and annually thereafter by an independent entity capable of performing according to the following procedures:

a) Inspect the monitoring location in compliance with regulations;

b) Check the system's ability to collect, store, and transmit automatic continuous monitoring data;

c) Inspect the components, technical characteristics, and other features of the system;

d) Evaluate the relative accuracy of the system, including:

d1) Conducting comparative monitoring:

d1.1) Comparative monitoring involves using the periodic monitoring methods stipulated in Appendix 4.1 issued together with this Circular or methods accepted by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (US EPA) as equivalent methods for comparison and evaluation of results obtained with those from the system;

d1.2) Conduct comparative monitoring separately for each parameter;

d1.3) Minimum number of comparative monitoring samples: 06 samples per parameter per instance;

d2) Calculate and evaluate the results of comparative monitoring through relative accuracy (RA) as follows:

d2.1) Calculated according to the provisions in Appendix 12 issued together with this Circular;

d2.2) Evaluate the RA results as follows:

- Monitoring data from the system shall be accepted for use when the RA falls within the permissible limits set out in Table 4 below:

Table 4. Permissible Limits for Parameters When Used to Assess Relative Accuracy

- For parameters not specified in Table 4, the RA values for such parameters must be sent to the agency responsible for receiving automatic monitoring data for review and decision on acceptance and management of the data;

d) Quality control information shall be recorded in the Technical Characteristics Testing Report, Functionality and Relative Accuracy of the System as stipulated in Appendix 13 issued together with this Circular.

Article 36. Basic Requirements for Automatic Continuous Emission Monitoring Systems

1. Monitoring Parameters: Based on the characteristics of the emission source, the exhaust gas treatment system, and management requirements, the competent state authority shall require the implementation of automatic monitoring parameters in accordance with the provisions of the law.

2. Sampling Port Location:

a) Determination of sampling port location: comply with the regulations on determining sampling port locations as stipulated in Clause 1, Section III, Appendix 5 issued together with this Circular;

b) For gaseous pollutants: in cases where the chimney does not meet the conditions to determine the sampling port location as prescribed in Clause 1, Section III, Appendix 5, the selection of the sampling port location must satisfy the following conditions: not at the chimney mouth; not at a position where the pipe is constricted or expanded; not near the blower or suction fan; and prioritize choosing a place with stable airflow;

c) In cases where a facility has multiple emission sources with similar characteristics discharged into the environment through a single chimney, it may choose to implement automatic monitoring at the exhaust duct of each source or conduct automatic monitoring on the common chimney. In cases where a facility has multiple emission sources with different characteristics discharged into the environment through a single chimney, an automatic monitoring system must be installed for each source;

3. Basic Components of the Automatic Continuous Emission Monitoring System:

a) Automatic Continuous Monitoring Equipment: Based on the parameters and measurement principles of the monitoring equipment, determine the appropriate installation method for the monitoring equipment, specifically:

- Direct method on the chimney body (in-situ): the monitoring equipment is directly attached to the chimney body to measure exhaust gas parameters without using a sample extraction pipe;

- Indirect method through sample extraction: exhaust gas samples are extracted from inside the chimney body via a sample extraction pipe and conveyed to the monitoring equipment;

b) Data Reception, Transmission, and Management System: To collect, store, and transmit continuous automatic monitoring data to environmental authorities. The data reception, transmission, and management system is detailed in Article 39 of this Circular;

c) Calibration Standards: For calibration and testing of the monitoring equipment in the system;

d) Cameras: Install cameras to provide real-time images at the locations of the system's monitoring equipment to ensure the following requirements:

- There must be a camera capable of monitoring emissions from all chimneys of the facility, ensuring that emissions from the chimney mouths can be observed and the data controller installed in the chimney area (if any) can be monitored, transmitting images to the Department of Natural Resources and Environment;

- There must be a camera installed inside the station house to monitor the data controller of the monitoring equipment to serve security purposes for the station house, transmitting and extracting camera data upon request;

- The camera must have the ability to pan and tilt; have night vision capability; ensure clear observation of objects under surveillance; have the ability to record images over time intervals and schedule recordings;

đ) Technical requirements for other auxiliary equipment for the automatic continuous emission monitoring system are stipulated in Appendix 11 issued together with this Circular.

Article 37. Requirements for Technical Characteristics of Automatic and Continuous Emission Monitoring Systems

The automatic and continuous emission monitoring system must at least meet the following technical characteristic requirements:

1. Automatic and Continuous Emission Monitoring Equipment

a) The technical characteristics of the automatic and continuous emission monitoring equipment in the system must comply with the requirements set out in Table 5 below:

Table 5. Technical Characteristics of Automatic and Continuous Emission Monitoring Equipment

Where:

Regarding the accuracy requirement of the measuring devices in Table 5: the technical characteristics of the monitoring equipment may choose to apply accuracy based on the reading value or accuracy within the measurement range;

b) The automatic monitoring equipment must have at least one measurement range capable of measuring values ≥ three times the limit value specified in the National Technical Regulation on the Environment applicable to the facility (except for temperature, flow rate, and pressure parameters);

c) For temperature, pressure, particulate matter (PM), and flow rate parameters, the measuring devices must be installed on the flue stack body;

d) For parameters using the sampling probe installation method, the system must meet the following requirements:

d1) Sampling probe: made of stainless steel material, placed perpendicular to the flue stack wall. The sampling probe has a length of 1 meter or equal to 30% of the inner diameter of the flue stack (or equivalent diameter for rectangular stacks);

d2) The sample line from the sampling port to the monitoring equipment must not be constricted, expanded, or bent at an angle less than 90 degrees;

d3) The exhaust gas passing through the sample line must be heated to remove all moisture before entering the measuring and analyzing device;

đ) It is encouraged to use synchronized monitoring equipment certified by international organizations: United States Environmental Protection Agency (US EPA), United Kingdom Certification Organization (mCERTs), German Technical Inspection Agency (TÜV);

e) Must have the ability to automatically store and export monitoring results and information about the status of the measuring devices, including at least the following statuses: measuring, calibration, and device error reporting. Calibration status does not apply to temperature, pressure, flow rate, and particulate matter (PM) parameters.

2. Calibration Standards

a) Reference materials used to calibrate the automatic emission monitoring equipment for parameters specified in Table 5 (excluding temperature, particulate matter (PM), and pressure parameters);

b) For automatic monitoring systems using extractive sampling, reference materials must be directed to the position where the exhaust gas enters the sample line in the automatic and continuous emission monitoring system diagram. For direct monitoring systems on the flue stack, manufacturer's instructions for checking with reference materials are acceptable;

c) Reference materials must be within their validity period, have a minimum accuracy of ± 5%, and must be linked to standards according to legal metrology regulations;

d) The concentration of reference materials must be within the range of 10%-70% of the measurement range of each corresponding device for each parameter specified in Table 5.

Article 38. Requirements for Management and Operation of Automatic and Continuous Emission Monitoring Systems

1. Setting Measurement Ranges of the System: When operating the automatic and continuous emission monitoring system to transmit data to the receiving unit, the equipment must be set to a measurement range capable of measuring values ≥ three times the limit value specified in the National Technical Regulation on the Environment applicable to the facility.

2. Ensuring Quality of the System:

a) Management and operation personnel: must have sufficient trained personnel to perform management, maintenance, and operation tasks of the system;

b) Management files related to the system must be kept at the system operation unit and ready for presentation upon request of competent state authorities. Management files include:

b1) List of monitored parameters;

b2) List and technical characteristics of the monitoring equipment in the system;

b3) Equipment user guide;

b4) Design drawings and descriptions of the system;

b5) Standard Operating Procedures (SOP): must include at least contents on startup and operation procedures of the system; daily inspection procedures; sample line inspection and reference gas testing procedures (once a month); frequency and procedures for maintenance and repair of monitoring equipment; frequency and procedures for testing and calibrating equipment; frequency for replacing spare parts and consumables according to manufacturer recommendations; troubleshooting procedures; data backup procedures; data verification and reporting procedures; safety operation regulations; and procedures for managing and handling generated waste;

b6) Spare equipment and accessories;

b7) Operation logbook, maintenance and repair logbook, testing and calibration logbook;

b8) Handbook of common errors and methods to resolve issues during system management and operation;

b9) Daily activity tracking and inspection log of the system;

b10) Certificates attached with reports on the results of testing and calibrating system monitoring equipment as prescribed;

b11) Inspection report of the system using reference materials.

3. Before the system is officially put into operation, the system operation unit must submit relevant files to the Department of Natural Resources and Environment, including:

a) Information about the system operation unit: name and address, production type, production line technology, design capacity;

b) Installation time of the equipment (start time, end time) and quality control time and results of the system according to Clause 6 of this Article;

c) Design drawings and descriptions of the system; list of monitored parameters and installation methods of monitoring equipment; information about the flue stack (height, diameter), location and images of sampling ports on the flue stack;

d) List and technical characteristics of monitoring equipment, sampling probes; manufacturer and model of equipment; certificates attached with test result reports of equipment calibration; data collection and storage system; system name and static IP address associated with the system.

4. Testing, calibration, trial, and periodic inspection of automatic continuous monitoring equipment

a) Equipment must be verified and calibrated according to current laws on metrology;

b) Equipment (excluding temperature, pressure, PM dust measuring devices) must be periodically checked using standard substances according to the manufacturer's recommendations but at least once every month by the system operator; recalibration and verification of measuring equipment must be carried out when the measured value on the device differs from the concentration value of the standard substance by ≥ 10%. It is encouraged to recalibrate and verify measuring equipment when the measured value on the device differs from the concentration value of the standard substance by < 10%. The process of checking equipment with standard samples and recalibrating and verifying equipment must be recorded in the operation log;

c) Periodic checks of automatic monitoring equipment are encouraged through cross-checking with the results of monitoring parameters in the regular environmental monitoring program of the facility (if available);

d) For temperature, pressure, PM dust, flow measuring devices, the system operator must conduct periodic checks through cross-checking with the results of monitoring these parameters in the regular environmental monitoring program of the facility (if available); recalibration and verification of measuring equipment must be carried out when the measured value on the device differs from the measured value in the regular environmental monitoring program by ≥ 10%. It is encouraged to recalibrate and verify measuring equipment when the measured value on the device differs from the measured value in the regular environmental monitoring program by < 10%. The process of checking equipment and recalibrating and verifying equipment must be recorded in the operation log;

đ) Maintenance, repair, replacement of spare parts must be planned by the system operator and detailed in the standard operating procedure (SOP);

5. In cases where maintenance, testing, calibration, replacement of spare parts, repair, and replacement of measuring and analyzing devices are required, the facility owner must comply with the following requirements:

a) Send a written notice to the Department of Natural Resources and Environment specifying the implementation plan, the end time for maintenance, calibration, verification, replacement of spare parts, repair, and replacement of measuring and analysis equipment;

b) During the period when the automatic monitoring equipment is not operational for 48 hours or more, manual monitoring shall be conducted as follows for parameters that are required to be automatically monitored according to the law and regulatory requirements:

- The facility owner must conduct monitoring at least once every two days for exhaust gas parameters that cannot be continuously monitored by automatic equipment until such equipment resumes operation;

- The facility owner must conduct monitoring at least once every seven days for PM dust parameters that cannot be continuously monitored by automatic equipment until such equipment resumes operation;

- After completing the measurement and analysis, the monitoring results must be retained and sent to the Department of Natural Resources and Environment;

6. Quality control of the system must be performed before official operation and annually thereafter by an independent entity capable of performing it according to the following procedures:

a) Check the sampling port location in accordance with Clause 2, Article 36;

b) Check the probe in accordance with Point d1, Clause 1, Article 37;

c) Check the sample line using standard gases as prescribed in Point d2, Clause 1, Article 37. During the measurement of standard gases, the entire pump and monitoring equipment system must operate in a similar manner to the measurement and analysis of exhaust gas streams, specifically as follows:

c1) The duration of the standard gas measurement check must be at least 20 minutes per measurement;

c2) If the measured standard gas value differs by ≤ 5% from the standard gas concentration value, the sample line meets the requirement. After the inspection, record information about the standard gas measurement results;

d) Check the measurement capability and report results in mg/m³ for pollution parameter monitoring devices;

đ) Check the data collection, storage, and transmission capabilities of the continuous automatic monitoring system;

e) Check other components and features of the system;

g) Evaluate the relative accuracy of the system including:

g1) Conduct comparative monitoring:

g1.1) Comparative monitoring involves using periodic monitoring methods specified in Appendix 4.2 issued together with this Circular or accepted by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (US EPA) as equivalent methods for comparison and evaluation of results obtained with the system;

g1.2) Conduct separate comparative monitoring for each parameter;

g1.3) Collect at least six comparative monitoring samples per parameter per comparative monitoring session;

g1.4) During comparative monitoring, the facility's operating capacity must be maintained at a minimum of 50% of its design capacity;

g2) Evaluate comparative monitoring results through relative accuracy (RA) as follows:

g2.1) Calculate comparative monitoring results using the comparative monitoring results between the system and the comparative monitoring method to calculate: difference, standard deviation, confidence factor, and relative accuracy (RA) for each device and each parameter separately according to Appendix 12 issued together with this Circular;

g2.2) Evaluate the RA results as follows:

- System monitoring data is acceptable for use when RA ≤ 20%;

- For parameters not listed in Table 5, the RA values for these parameters must be submitted to the automatic monitoring data receiving agency for review and decision on acceptance and management of the data;

h) Quality control information must be recorded in the Technical Characteristics, Features, and Relative Accuracy Inspection Report of the System at Appendix 14 issued together with this Circular;

Chapter VIII

REQUIREMENTS FOR RECEIVING, TRANSMITTING AND MANAGING DATA FROM CONTINUOUS AUTOMATIC ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING

Article 39. Requirements for the system to receive, transmit, and manage data (data logger) at stations and automatic, continuous environmental monitoring systems

The system to receive, transmit, and manage data at stations and systems equipped with environmental monitoring devices (water quality, ambient air quality, wastewater, exhaust gas) must meet the following minimum requirements:

1. Receiving, storing, and managing environmental monitoring data in the data logger

a) The system must be directly connected to measuring, analyzing, and control devices (data controller), and automatic sampling systems (if available), without connecting through other devices;

b) The output signal of the system must be digital;

c) Ensure continuous storage of at least the most recent 60 days of data. The minimum stored data include: measurement parameters, measurement results, units of measurement, measurement time, status of the measuring device (measuring, calibration, and equipment error report);

d) For automatic, continuous wastewater and exhaust gas monitoring systems, unused ports for transmitting and receiving data to management authorities must be sealed by local state management agencies;

đ) Ensure display of information including: measurement parameters, measurement results, units of measurement (according to the national technical regulation units for comparison), measurement time, status of the measuring device, and extraction of data from the data reception, transmission, and management system;

2. Transmitting environmental monitoring data

a) Transmit data via FTP, FTPs, or sFTP to the server address provided by the Department of Natural Resources and Environment using the account and address provided by the Department; the internet connection must be at least 30 Mb/s. In cases where both the transmitting and receiving units have the technical capability to meet these conditions, it is encouraged to use more advanced data transmission methods than those specified;

b) Data must be transmitted in real-time, no later than five minutes after the monitoring system produces the result, each time as one file, and these files must be stored in folders. For automatic, continuous wastewater and exhaust gas monitoring systems, data must be transmitted to the Department of Natural Resources and Environment from a static IP address previously notified to the Department;

c) Ensure synchronization with real-time international standard time (GMT+7);

d) In case of data transmission interruption, immediately upon recovery, the system must automatically transmit data for the interrupted period. If the data transmission interruption lasts longer than twelve hours, the system operating unit must promptly notify the cause and measures to resolve the interruption issue in writing and by email to the agency receiving automatic, continuous environmental monitoring data;

đ) Allow remote signals to control automatic sampling (if available) and retrieve data upon request;

3. File data format and content

a) Data must be formatted as a *.txt file;

b) The file data content includes five main pieces of information: measurement parameters, measurement results, units of measurement, measurement time, status of the measuring device (measuring, calibration, and equipment error report). The structure, content, and naming of the file data must comply with the provisions set out in Appendix 15 issued along with this Circular;

c) Information from cameras must be transmitted to the Department of Natural Resources and Environment using the RTSP method. Camera data must be stored for a minimum of three months;

4. Data security and integrity

a) After the automatic, continuous wastewater and exhaust gas monitoring systems officially commence operation, the data logger system must be accessed controlled by accounts and passwords, and connection ports must be sealed. The highest level accounts (Admin, Host, Superhost, Master, Supervisor) of the data logger must be provided to the Department of Natural Resources and Environment to manage, control connection ports, configure, and software upgrade processes (firmware) of the data logger;

b) The facility and system operating units must ensure and be responsible for data security, integrity, server FTP access accounts, and static IP addresses where data is transmitted.

Article 40. Requirements for the system to receive, transmit, and manage data at Provincial Departments of Natural Resources and Environment

The system to receive, transmit, and manage data at Provincial Departments of Natural Resources and Environment must meet the following requirements at a minimum:

1. Receiving and managing data from the facility

a) Must have at least two servers with a minimum configuration as follows: processor speed of 2.5 GHz; internal memory (RAM) of 64 GB; hard drive capacity of 2 TB;

b) Internet connection speed of at least 30 Mb/s;

c) Must have a static IP address and report this static IP address to the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment;

d) Must have at least two screens (minimum 40 inches) for displaying, monitoring, and supervising real-time continuous automatic monitoring data;

đ) Provide access accounts to the FTP server for the facility to transmit data and allow the facility to view files of data transmitted within the last three years;

e) Data received at the Provincial Department of Natural Resources and Environment must be verified based on the static IP address of the facility and the FTP access account provided to the facility;

g) Shall be responsible for establishing, managing access accounts and passwords for the system to receive, transmit, and manage data in the automatic, continuous environmental monitoring system of the facility.

2. Requirements for managing data

a) Must have a database to retain data from all stations and automatic continuous monitoring systems within the province to manage basic information: station/system name, measurement parameters, measurement results, units of measurement, measurement time, and status of measuring equipment (measuring, calibration, and equipment fault reporting);

b) Must use software developed and provided by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment to transmit data to the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment.

3. Requirements for transmitting data to the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (through the General Department of Environment)

a) Data transmitted includes: monitoring data and data from surveillance cameras;

b) Monitoring data is formatted as *.txt files;

c) Connect and transmit data via FTP, FTPs, or sFTP methods to the server address using the FTP account and address provided by the General Department of Environment. In cases where Provincial Departments of Natural Resources and Environment and the General Department of Environment can meet technical conditions, it is encouraged to use more modern data transmission methods than those specified;

d) Automatically transmit monitoring data every hour to the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment and no later than ten days upon request of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment. Transmitted monitoring data is the hourly average value at even hours (1:00 AM, 2:00 AM, 3:00 AM... 12:00 AM) of each parameter. The content of the hourly average value data file includes main information: measurement parameters, measurement results, units of measurement, measurement time, status of measuring equipment (measuring, calibration, and equipment fault reporting). The structure, content, and naming rules of the hourly average value data file are stipulated in Appendix 15 issued together with this Circular;

đ) Ensure the automatic transmission of continuous monitoring data to the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment to meet the demand for information provision and usage, achieving at least 80% of total measurement results for each monitored parameter;

e) Ensure synchronization with international standard Vietnam time zone (GMT+7);

g) In case of data transmission interruption, once restored, the system must automatically transmit data for the interrupted period. If the data transmission interruption exceeds twelve hours, the Provincial Department of Natural Resources and Environment must provide a written or email notification about the cause and measures to resolve the interruption issue to the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (through the General Department of Environment);

h) The Provincial Department of Natural Resources and Environment must ensure and be responsible for the security, integrity of data, FTP server access accounts, and the static IP address of the facility.

Article 41. Requirements for the system of transmitting, receiving, and managing automatic, continuous environmental monitoring data at the Department of Environment, Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment

The system for receiving and managing data at the Department of Environment, Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment must meet the following minimum requirements:

1. Receiving and storing data

a) There must be a minimum of three servers, each server having the following minimum configuration: processor speed of 2.5 GHz; internal memory (RAM) of 256 GB; hard drive capacity of 20 TB;

b) Ensuring an internet connection with a minimum speed of 100 Mb/s and a static IP address;

c) Having a minimum of eight screens (each at least 40 inches) to display, monitor, and supervise real-time data from automatic, continuous environmental monitoring;

d) Providing access accounts to the FTP server for the Department of Natural Resources and Environment to transmit data;

đ) Monitoring results from stations and automatic environmental monitoring systems must be directly transmitted to the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment to ensure information provision and usage needs, achieving a minimum of 80% of the total monitoring results for each parameter of the station or monitoring system;

2. Requirements for managing data

a) Having a database to store and manage data from all monitoring stations and automatic systems with the following minimum information: station/system name, measurement parameters, measurement results, units of measurement, measurement time, and status of measuring equipment (in operation, calibration, and equipment error report);

b) Having software that meets the following minimum functions: extracting data in table and chart formats; managing and displaying data (station/system name, parameters, time, units of measurement, measurement results, and status of measuring equipment (in operation, calibration, and equipment error report)); calculating comparisons and editing data (calculating maximum, minimum, average values, comparing measurement results with QCVN standards); online monitoring and alerting (measurement results exceeding QCVN limit values, interruptions in data transmission); system management (creating and assigning permissions for user accounts);

c) Data reception requirements from the Department of Natural Resources and Environment: received data must be verified according to the static IP address of the Department of Natural Resources and Environment and the FTP access account provided to the Department of Natural Resources and Environment;

3. Requirements for transmitting data from water quality and air quality monitoring stations managed by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment:

a) Automatic, continuous water quality and air quality monitoring data transmission must ensure information provision and usage needs, achieving a minimum of 80% of the expected total monitoring results from the monitoring station;

b) In case of data transmission interruption, immediately upon recovery, the system must automatically transmit data for the interrupted period. If the data transmission interruption exceeds 12 hours, the units responsible for managing and operating the station must provide a written and email notification to the Department of Environment regarding the cause, measures to resolve the interruption issue, implementation plan, resolution timeframe for the interruption issue or maintenance, inspection, calibration, replacement of spare parts, repair, and replacement of measuring and analytical equipment;

Chapter IX

MANAGEMENT, PROVISION, AND SHARING OF ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY MONITORING INFORMATION AND DATA

Article 42. Environmental Quality Monitoring Data

1. Environmental quality monitoring data includes: periodic environmental quality monitoring results, automatic and continuous environmental quality monitoring results of programs prescribed under this Decree.

2. Reports on environmental quality monitoring results include: reports on periodic environmental quality monitoring results by batches and annually; reports on automatic and continuous environmental quality monitoring results by quarters and annually.

3. Forms of environmental quality monitoring data and reports:

a) Format of environmental quality monitoring data: The data specified in Clause 1 of Article 42 of this Circular shall be stored in computer files in Word format (.doc or .docx) for environmental quality monitoring reports; Excel format (.xls or .xlsx) for periodic monitoring results; text file for automatic and continuous monitoring results.

b) Templates for periodic monitoring result reports shall be implemented according to the provisions at Table A1, Table A2; templates for automatic and continuous monitoring result reports shall be implemented according to the provisions at Table A3, Table A4 in Appendix 16 issued together with this Circular.

Article 43. Reporting System for Environmental Quality Monitoring Data

1. Units directly under the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, units within the national environmental monitoring network funded from the state budget to implement national environmental quality monitoring programs shall be responsible for submitting to the General Department of Environment annual reports on environmental quality monitoring results (for periodic and automatic and continuous monitoring) as stipulated in Clause 2 of Article 42 of this Circular. Annual reports on environmental quality monitoring results must be submitted before February 15 of the following year. Periodic batch monitoring reports and quarterly automatic and continuous monitoring reports shall be retained at the unit.

2. Departments of Natural Resources and Environment shall submit to the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (through the General Department of Environment) annual reports on environmental quality monitoring results (for periodic and automatic and continuous monitoring) as stipulated in Clause 2 of Article 42 of this Circular before February 15 of the following year. Periodic batch monitoring reports and quarterly automatic and continuous monitoring reports shall be retained at the unit.

3. All monitoring result reports must have signatures and stamps of the reporting agency, and one copy must be sent to the receiving agency through the Electronic Document Management System or directly delivered in bound form. In case of direct delivery in bound form, electronic files of the reports must be sent via email or the receiving agency's information portal.

Article 44. Management, Storage, Provision, and Sharing of Environmental Monitoring Data

1. Agencies entrusted with managing environmental monitoring data shall be responsible for storing such data in accordance with current laws.

2. The General Department of Environment shall establish a national environmental monitoring database; guide provincial natural resources and environment departments to establish local environmental monitoring databases ensuring consistency, synchronization, and connectivity with the national environmental information system and database.

3. Annually, the General Department of Environment shall update and publish national environmental monitoring results on the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment’s and the General Department of Environment’s information portals.

4. Annually, provincial natural resources and environment departments shall update and publish local environmental monitoring results on the provincial People's Committee’s information portal and the provincial natural resources and environment department’s website.

5. Agencies, organizations, and individuals outside the national environmental monitoring system and provincial environmental monitoring systems when conducting environmental quality monitoring for the purpose of publicizing information must comply with technical requirements for environmental quality monitoring stipulated in this Circular and laws on publicizing information.

Chapter X

IMPLEMENTING PROVISIONS

Article 45. Effective Date

1. This Circular takes effect from August 16, 2021, except as provided in Clause 2 of this Article.

2. Chapter III of this Circular takes effect from January 1, 2022.

3. Circular No. 24/2017/TT-BTNMT dated September 1, 2017, of the Minister of Natural Resources and Environment on technical procedures for environmental monitoring and Chapter III of Circular No. 43/2015/TT-BTNMT dated September 29, 2015, of the Minister of Natural Resources and Environment on environmental status reports, environmental indicators, and management of environmental monitoring data shall cease to be effective upon the effectiveness of this Circular.

Article 46. Transitional Provisions

1. Monitoring methods and techniques certified in certificates of eligibility for environmental monitoring service activities shall continue to be used until the certificates expire; it is encouraged that organizations with valid certificates adjust their certificates according to the monitoring methods and techniques stipulated in this Circular.

2. Automatic and continuous ambient air quality monitoring stations specified in Clause 1 of Article 29 of this Circular, automatic and continuous surface water quality monitoring stations, and automatic and continuous wastewater and exhaust gas monitoring systems that were invested in and operated before the date this Circular took effect but did not fully meet the technical requirements of this Circular may continue to be used for 24 months from the date this Circular takes effect. After 24 months from the date this Circular takes effect, these devices must be upgraded or replaced with devices that fully meet the technical requirements stipulated in this Circular.

Article 47. Implementation Organization

1. The General Department of Environment shall be responsible for guiding, inspecting, and supervising the implementation of this Circular.

2. The Minister, Heads of ministerial-level agencies, Heads of government-affiliated agencies, Chairpersons of People's Committees at all levels, and related organizations and individuals shall be responsible for implementing this Circular.

3. During the implementation of this Circular, if there are difficulties or obstacles, relevant agencies, organizations, and individuals are requested to report them to the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (through the General Department of Environment) for timely consideration and resolution./.