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was issued regarding punctuality, as any delays would directly impact a competitor ' s allocated task time.
UPHOLDING INTEGRITY AND SAFETY Integrity and safety were paramount throughout the competition. Contestants were explicitly forbidden from using cell phones or engaging in any unauthorised communication with others, with immediate disqualification as the consequence for non-compliance. Bathroom breaks were encouraged to be scheduled strategically between tasks to minimise disruption.
Safety protocols were heavily emphasised. Participants were reminded to always wear appropriate safety shoes and to strictly observe all safety measures, particularly when working with refrigeration units and refrigerants.
A critical rule for all practical tasks was the documentation of every step and test performed. " If you don ' t write it down, you haven ' t done the test," Laidlaw stressed, highlighting that the onus was entirely on the competitor to ensure their actions were recorded for the judges. While judges would observe, the primary responsibility for documentation lay with the contestants.
Laidlaw clarified that the theory test was not a pass / fail component, but rather a means to assess broader knowledge, with some questions intentionally designed to be challenging. To ensure a smooth flow, coordinators were on hand to provide logistical support, assisting competitors with tools or any other necessary equipment. However, a clear distinction was made: " They will help you. They will not assist you passing the test." Their role was facilitative, not instructional.
DISPUTE RESOLUTION In the event of any disputes or questions regarding scoring, the chief judge held the ultimate authority. Should a moderation be required, the chief judge would consult with the designated moderator( who was also the competition ' s organiser), whose advice would inform the final, binding decision. This clear chain of command ensured fairness and transparency throughout the event.
As the competition officially began, participants embarked on a challenging yet invaluable experience, set to test their skills and push their boundaries within the dynamic world of HVAC & R. RACA
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RACA Journal I August 2025 www. refrigerationandaircon. co. za