Industry backs mandatory alternative refrigerants training

UK: As the RACHP Industry prepares for the revision of the F-gas regulations, the industry has shown overwhelming backing for the introduction of mandatory certified training for those handling flammable refrigerants.

Respondents to a recent survey conducted by the Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Industry Board (ACRIB) also considered that options were required for those handling other alternative refrigerants including carbon dioxide and ammonia.

The ACRIB survey, carried out during April and May, sought to ensure that the industry’s views on refrigerant handling training, qualifications and skills were taken into account by DEFRA in the forthcoming review of the GB F-gas regulations. 

The survey, distributed to 10 ACRIB member organisations, received a total of 132 individual responses. Just over 30% were micro businesses, defined as those employing less than four operatives who handle refrigerants, and around 12% were companies employing over 50 people.

Over 80% of respondents claimed a high level of awareness of the availability of qualifications for handling of alternative refrigerants, and nearly 90% backed mandatory certification under any F-gas revision.

Another positive finding of the survey is that many employers already have the necessary certified training in place – or are planning to do so. 

The positive response is perhaps reflective of the fact that the survey was sent out under the ACRIB umbrella to members of trade associations and professional institutes who would be expected to be reasonably well informed by their membership body. These organisation were the Association of Manufacturers of Domestic Appliances (AMDEA), Associated Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Contractors (ARC), BESA, the British Frozen Food Federation (BFFF), CIBSE, Catering Equipment Suppliers Association (CESA), Cambridge Refrigeration Technology (CRT), FETA, Cold Chain Federation (CCF) and the IOR.

The survey, however, did produce mixed views on the need for regular re-certification, with a fairly even split between those who would like to see renewal every five, and those who would only cab re-certification when legislation changes. 

Not surprisingly, the smaller employers tended to be less supportive of a regime of regular reassessment. However, ACRIB notes that under the EU F-gas regulation, UK Building Safety Act, and to align with Engineering Services CSC Skills Card renewal periods, this was something that the sector was likely to have to move towards in the future. 

As a result of the survey, a meeting was held with DEFRA last month to present the industry’s views.

The current European F-gas regulation (517/2014) was transferred into UK law post brexit. Great Britain (England, Scotland and Wales) is required to revise the current regulation, but can, if desired, diverge from the requirements of the recently revised European F-gas regulations.