Separating Facts from Fiction on F-Gas Regulations

Simply put they are known as F-Gas Regulations. They fall under the Commission Regulation (EC) No 308/2008

These Regulations establish controls on certain Fluorinated Gases used in refrigeration systems, aerosol propellants, Solvent applications, as well as other uses.

The objective of Regulation is to control the use of PerFluoroCarbon (PFC) and HydroFluoroCarbon (HFC) materials and ensure Best Working Practice

The Regulation become effective from 4th July 2009.

On the 11th December 1997 a Protocol was ratified in Kyoto, Japan, focused on reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions (GHG). This Kyoto Protocol aimed at getting Industrialised Countries to collectively reduce GHG by 5.25% when compared with 1990.

If you are recovering F-Gas Solvents, It will be necessary to hold a valid training certificate to ensure competency and compliance. This effectively means that maintenance personnel involved in recovering the Solvent from equipment need to be qualified through training.

There is no ban on use or restriction on quantities used and therefore none on Emissions to Atmosphere from Equipment.

The objective of Certification is to ensure Best Practice in reducing Solvent loss to atmosphere during maintenance, providing the added advantages of reducing process costs, and providing good Health and Safety by using a defined Solvent Management system. It also works with the spirit of the Solvent Emissions Directive (SED)

A Cost Effective, Environmentally friendlier and compliant system shows responsibility and awareness of the wider community need, whilst providing an efficient process.

Fraser Cleaning Technologies have taken the lead within the UK in providing Training and Certification for the control of F-Gas products.

A half day course, provided at the site of operation is convenient for the trainee. Bookings can be made by contacting Fraser Cleaning Technologies direct.

Commenting on obligations under the regulations, Mr Jacob Anderson of DEFRA said “As long as Companies have booked onto a suitable training course before 4th July 2009 there will be a grace period to allow the high number of Companies that require Certification to be accommodated. We are delighted that Fraser Technologies have stepped forward to ensure UK users of these specialised and important Chemistries can comply with this legislation”

As a supplier of Fluorinated Chemicals for process cleaning, Fraser Cleaning Technologies offer first- hand experience in this field.

Whilst some Fluorinated products may be deemed to fall marginally outside the Global Warming Potential levels of concern under F Gas Regulations, it is prudent to consider their potential for Environmental impact. Even a simple item like a boiling point needs to be considered when showing concern for our Environment.

Contact us now for Training Information. cleaning@frasertech.co.uk

You will also find it helpful to view further information on F-Gas Regulations via the dedicated Website at DEFRA www.defra.gov.uk