Oregon DEQ’s Vehicle Inspection Program puts 2020 in rearview mirror

Inspector checking vehicle diagnostics while customer waits at a safe distance in compliance with COVID-19 guidelines.

From the extraordinary pandemic to the intruding smoke from massive wildfires, 2020 presented Oregon DEQ’s vehicle testing inspectors with demands they had never before encountered. Through ingenuity, flexibility and teamwork, they were able to move from standard operating procedures to an entirely new set of safety protocols and disinfection guidelines, all while maintaining the high quality of service and efficiency for which they are known.

A new report, “Oregon DEQ Vehicle Inspection Program 2020 Update,” summarizes how the program managed the challenges. It provides details on staffing, testing options, improvement initiatives and what to expect next from the team.

Dan Sutherland disinfecting his station between customer visits at the NE Portland vehicle inspection station, June 30, 2020.

Vehicle Inspection Program employees are Oregon DEQ’s frontline workers. They work with the public six days a week to ensure that fewer and fewer emissions and hazardous pollutants enter the environment. We are grateful for their service.

–Susan C. Mills, public affairs specialist

Published by Oregon Department of Environmental Quality

DEQ’s mission is to be a leader in restoring, maintaining and enhancing the quality of Oregon’s air, land and water.

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