RACA Journal June 2023 | Page 7

www . refrigerationandaircon . co . za RACA Journal I June 2023 7
Associations is to leave the planet in good condition for future generations . Technicians must assess each case individually to determine if a system can be recovered or if it needs to be destroyed .
One issue that arises is when the refrigerant is mixed or blended , making it impossible to separate . It is essential to handle such cases with care , as contaminated refrigerant can cause significant damage . The government may not support the recovery of small amounts of gas , which can lead technicians to recover the gas themselves . This practice can lead to workshops being filled with bottles of recovered refrigerant , which can then be given to recovery companies to dispose of properly .
One common question is whether there are any legal repercussions for companies that fail to recover refrigerant . The answer is yes . There are laws and regulations in place that mandate proper recovery and disposal . Failure to comply can lead to fines and other penalties . Therefore , it is important to ensure that all cylinders used for recovery are checked and certified to be safe for reuse .
In conclusion , the recovery of refrigerant is a critical process that protects the environment , complies with legal requirements , and generates income . While there may be challenges and costs associated with recovery , it is important to view it as an investment in the future . Business owners must be encouraged to prioritise environmental responsibility and see the value in recovery , while technicians must be trained to assess each case individually and follow proper regulations . Ultimately , a focus on quality curriculum , education and facilities can help ensure that the recovery process is done correctly and safely . RACA
Presenter Werner Terblanche of A-Gas South Africa describing the Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protcol phase-out and phasedown regulations .
A rapt audience at the April SAIRAC Johannesburg Tech Talk hosted at ACRA .

www . refrigerationandaircon . co . za RACA Journal I June 2023 7