23 Apr 2026
The IOR is made up of around 1950 individuals in many different roles and career stages from student to business owner. It was formed in 1899 and exists today to promote the advancement of refrigeration and its applications for the public good. What does this mean in practice? It means that members come to the IOR to share and learn. We avoid commercial or product/business promotion in both our education and technical output. We offer national and local events, networks, training webinars, technical guidance and promote innovation. The IOR also takes a leadership role in promoting careers, CPD and encouraging training. The IOR represents the sector to give it the profile and recognition for its contribution to the many positive aspects of society that it deserves.
The IOR is a professional affiliate of the Engineering Council, the UK representative body of ASHRAE, provides UK membership of the International Institute of Refrigeration, is a member of the Construction CPD Service and nominates to the BSI standards development organisation. It is a registered scientific and educational charity, owned by its members. It provides recognition of individual achievement and innovation through awards, provides free technical advice for apprentices and students and funds a variety of STEM initiatives to promote careers.
Explore our pages on Education, Events, Environment and Publications to find out more.
23 Apr 2026
Find out what the IOR can do for you: technical queries, safety codes of practice, new technologies and professional development.
23 Apr 2026
When you become a member of the Institute of Refrigeration you are joining a group of specialist experts driving the sector forward.
23 Apr 2026
The IOR’s Environmental Committee has today published the first in a new series of Technology Briefs on the topic of Heat Recovery.
20 Apr 2026
Keen to promote our brilliant sector to young people? The Big Bang Fair, the UK's biggest free celebration of STEM for young people is looking for volunteers!
16 Apr 2026
The IOR is hosting is first-ever Talk & Tour on 19 May; this half-day in-person event will bring together delegates from across the RACHP sector to explore the practical path to net zero.