E – 1877 HVAC Refrigerants and Clean Air Act

In refrigerating systems, the fluid that absorbs heat and transfers it to a heat sink, usually with a phase change is called “Refrigerant”. Due to several environmental issues such as ozone layer depletion (ODP), global warming (GW) and their relation to the various refrigerants used, the refrigerant handling, storage and recovery has become one of the most important issues in recent times.

EPA Section 608 of the Clean Air Act is an extremely important law for the owners/operators of refrigerant-containing appliances and the HVAC technicians who service them.Section 608 prohibits individuals from intentionally or knowingly venting ozone-depleting substances, such as the chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) commonly found in refrigerants. Furthermore, Section 608 establishes guidelines for how refrigerants containing CFCs and HCFCs are collected and recycled. It also outlines the certification requirements for refrigerant recycling and recovery equipment, technicians who handle refrigerants, and individuals who reclaim refrigerants.

This 6-hour course outlines some of the safe handling, storage, recovery and disposal of refrigerants.To work on stationary air conditioners and refrigeration systems, you must be certified under Section 608 of the Clean Air Act. This course serves as a guide for technicians, O&M personnel, HVAC engineer, designers, facility managers, HSE personnel working in the air-conditioning and refrigeration trades.