UNEP OzonAction and the European Association of Refrigeration, Air Conditioning and Heat Pump Contractors have developed a training manual to support refrigeration and air-conditioning technicians in safe, efficient and environmentally responsible refrigerant use.
The UNEP-AREA Refrigerants Servicing and Best Practices Manual responds to the need for updated skills in handling low-GWP refrigerants, including A2L and A3 refrigerants with higher flammability. It is aimed primarily at technicians and training institutes in developing countries.
The manual is organized as a flexible, modular training programme with 10 individual modules that can be combined into tailored courses. It also includes eight pre-assembled courses, ranging from five-hour sessions to comprehensive programmes of up to 56 hours.
Each module or course is delivered as a complete training package, including lecture notes, presentations, assessments, trainer requirements, equipment specifications and certificate templates. The content combines theoretical instruction and hands-on practical training on refrigerant characteristics, environmental considerations and safe handling practices for conventional and alternative refrigerants.
The manual covers safe handling, storage and transport of refrigerants, leak detection and prevention, compliance with relevant policies and standards, and refrigerant selection for different applications. It also provides guidance on managing risks linked to more flammable, low-GWP refrigerants.
The training manual is available through the OzonAction Download Portal, where registered RAC training institutes can request access to modules and courses.
