Back to basics
What does this mean for us in the refrigeration and air
conditioning industry? The changes are now coming fast and
furious and are our installers and mechanics who are competent
on the natural refrigerants and up to the task? The natural
refrigerants have safety issues such as flammability, toxicity
and very high pressures which requires the mechanics to be
competent in handling these gases. Therefore, the competence
of practitioners in these gases with SAQCC Gas registration is
so important. This is to meet the requirements of the OHS Act
and Pressure Equipment Regulations on safety for systems
under pressure and then the need to comply with the Montreal
and Kyoto Protocols and amendments on ozone depletion
and global warming. The sale, recovery, reclamation and the
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RACA Journal I January 2020
usage of all refrigerants needs to be recorded and monitored
much like what is done in the UK and Australia. This presents
a challenge on how wholesalers will verify those authorised to
purchase refrigerant and monitor sales. In Australia, contractors
are required to keep a record of refrigerant usage and to have
the equipment for recovery available as well as the required
skills, and to avoid unnecessary leaks. Regular audits should be
carried out by compliance inspectors from the Department of
Environment, Forestry and Fisheries (DEFF) and Department
of Employment and Labour (DEL). This process needs to be
introduced in South Africa therefore we need to be prepared.
This preparedness starts with being competent and registered
as an Authorised Refrigeration Gas Practitioner. RACA
www.hvacronline.co.za