The EC Ozone Regulation (No. 1005/2009) was introduced to control and phase out the remaining uses of all Ozone Depleting Substances (ODS) such as R22 refrigerant. This has led to a total ban on its use for service and maintenance by the start of the year 2015.
ODS can result in greater UV radiation reaching the earth’s surface which is harmful for humans, animals and plants, leading to increases in skin cancer, cataracts and a reduction in food crop yields. Modern alternatives such as HFC’s, which include R410A, do not have the same ozone depleting potential (ODP).
- Since 31st December 2009, the use of virgin R22 refrigerant for servicing and maintenance has been banned.
- From 31st December 2014, there will be a total ban on all recycled and reclaimed R22 thereby making it impossible to service and maintain air conditioning systems that operate on R22.
- Provision should be made to prevent leakages of R22 on currently operational air conditioning systems.
Companies will be breaking the law and will face site shut down and/or fines if R22 regulations are not adhered to. Therefore, replacing R22 air conditioning systems with modern alternatives is essential.
To assist you in adopting a sensible approach to replacement, Mitsubishi Electric have developed The Case for Replace, a guide full of key facts and viable solutions to help businesses replace old air conditioning equipment efficiently as possible.
Source: https://airconditioning.mitsubishielectric.co.uk/RegulationsAndCertifications/Pages/R22-Phase-Out.aspx