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.

 

Recent posts

What We Do

What we do

23 Apr 2026

Find out what the IOR can do for you: technical queries, safety codes of practice, new  technologies and professional development.

News
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Join us

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.

News
Mike Tinsley

Tinsley Fund: Open for Applications

20 May 2026

The Tinsley Fund was set up in memory of Mike Tinsley and offers targeted financial help for people facing barriers to entering or progressing in the refrigeration and air conditioning sector.

Education
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Do You Know An Oustanding Student or Apprentice?

20 May 2026

The deadline for the RAC and IOR National Student of the Year Cooling Industry Award has been extended to 29 May, which means there’s still time to put forward the exceptional students you know and help them gain the recognition they deserve.

News
 F Gas Consultation Update

Update on the Proposal to Reform the HFC Phasedown Schedule

18 May 2026

On 15 May 2026, the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA) announced its decision to delay changes to the phasedown to beyond 2027.

News