HPA releases Flammable Refrigerant Training Policy Statement

The Heat Pump Association (HPA) has published a new Flammable Refrigerant Training Policy statement, recommending that awareness of both F-Gas and non-F-Gas flammable refrigerants should be held by all those installing heat pumps.

In light of the ongoing review of GB F-Gas regulations and the anticipated consultation, along with recent action in the EU to introduce mandatory certification for flammables, the statement comes at a welcome time for the sector.

The policy statement is further supported by findings from a recent ACRIB survey of sector companies, including HPA members, focused on refrigerant handling training, qualifications and skills. The survey revealed strong employer support for mandatory certified training for those handling flammable refrigerants in the UK, reinforcing the need for the sector to support developments in this area.

Positively, the survey results show high levels of awareness of available qualifications for handling flammable refrigerants, with many employers already implementing training programmes.

Additionally, the survey highlights the sector’s commitment to avoiding gaps in refrigerant handling, when policies are encouraging the use of lower GWP refrigerants, some of which are not fluorinated gasses, and therefore are not covered by the current regulations, which require operatives to be certified.

Commenting on today’s releases, Charlotte Lee, HPA Chief Executive, said: “Today’s publication demonstrates the strong support from the sector for levelling the playing field in terms of installer training and certification requirements for both F-Gas and non F-Gas flammable refrigerants. The HPA will continue to work with its members, stakeholders and policy officials to call for this alongside the expected review of GB F-Gas regulations.”

To view the HPA’s Flammable Refrigerant Training Policy, click here.

Notes to Editors:

For media inquiries, please contact:

Olivia Smalley

Head of Policy and Communications

Email: Olivia.smalley@thehpa.org.uk

About the Heat Pump Association:

The HPA is the UK’s dedicated voice for the Heat Pump Sector, driving widespread deployment of heat pump technology throughout the UK. Our membership includes the country’s leading manufacturers of heat pumps, components, and associated equipment as well as energy companies, certification bodies, installers and training providers.  We currently represent over 350 member organisations working in the heat pump sector, with our members representing around 90% of the volume of heat pumps sold in the UK market.