The manual provides four services to the Compliance Data System (CDS) data manager. First it serves as a quick-reference user's guide for data entry. It contains instructions and definitions for all CDS data elements. Second, it provides an outline for effective data entry procedures. The outline helps to ensure not only that data is correct before it enters CDS, but that it is checked for accuracy all during the edit and update processes. Third, the manual explains several methods of checking existing data on CDS and provides a step-by-step approach for analyzing and correcting erroneous data. Finally, the manual contains a list of references and sources of information which can help the data manager in the search for accurate, reliable data. The manual contains a complete review of CDS communications documents and user assistance staff available to supply helpful information on all capabilities of CDS. In short, the CDS Quality Assurance Manual is designed to be an easy reference guide to help the CDS data manager maintain data reliability.

"June 1984." EPA project officer: Franklin G. Smith.