Associations
CHOOSE AN ASSOCIATION PARTNER THAT CAN HELP
SUPPORT YOU AND YOUR BUSINESS
By the South African Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Contractors Association
In an industry struggling with non-compliance , contractors who would like to work within the law are encouraged to bring an association partner in to support their business .
The HVAC & R market in South Africa is established , regulated and globally competitive , it carries many intricacies and without guidance , navigating the landscape may prove detrimental to a new business .
Start-ups , for example , may not be fully aware of the regulations governing the installation , repairs , and maintenance of various air conditioning and refrigeration systems , pressure vessels and handling of refrigerants .
The South African Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Contractors Association ( SARACCA ) is an association committed to supporting a new business by providing members with relevant information and training opportunities .
SARACCA UPLIFTMENT SARACCA uplifts and supports its members , preparing them to be effective players in the industry . These are some of the member benefits .
• Through its director , SARACCA is involved in the administration of SAQCC Gas for authorised refrigeration gas practitioner registration and certificate of conformity monitoring all in terms of the pressure equipment regulations ( PER ).
• SARACCA provides a subsidy to members for the training of site staff in duct erection , refrigeration , air conditioning , and project management via short courses that follow a SAQA approved training curriculum .
• SARACCA supports the experiential training of engineers from university with a grant to the member who engages a student for the practical experience . In addition , SARACCA
also assists companies who train apprentices for the industry .
• SARACCA is a member of the Steel and Engineering Industries Federation of South Africa , which allows member ’ s access to industrial relations services such
Photo created by rawpixel . com - www . freepik . com as advice on labour matters , dispute resolution , and employment conditions .
• Membership of the Metal Engineering Industries Bargaining Council is available through SEIFSA .
• SARACCA is represented at the SABS to provide input on the review and revision of SANS standards such as SANS 10147 on refrigeration , SANS 10173 for installation , testing and balancing of air conditioning ductwork and SANS 1238 for the manufacture of ductwork . All of these have an impact on our industry , and it should be noted that SANS 10147 is now referred to in the OSH Act and Pressure Equipment Regulations which has major implications regarding responsibility and obligations on refrigeration installations , maintenance , and repairs .
• SARACCA publishes and circulates to members regular updates on the Contract Price Adjustment Provisions ( CPAP ) and SEIFSA indices , which enable members to monitor the movement of these indices and weightings for work groups specific to our industry .
www . hvacronline . co . za RACA Journal I February 2022 15