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.
30 Jul 2026
The Government has announced a significant change to apprenticeship funding that will make it easier and more affordable for employers to invest in the next generation of talent from 1 August 2026.
28 Jul 2026
Bookings are now open for the 2nd IIR International Conference on Refrigeration Adapting to Rising Temperatures. Taking place in Birmingham (UK) from 8 to 10 March 2027, the conference programme will take an international view of adaptation strategies and bring together international experts to accelerate the transition toward a sustainable, future‑proof global cooling sector.
23 Jul 2026
The next IOR Industry Skills Alliance in-person meeting will be held in London on 24th September. Join us to help us progress in our key areas, which include strengthening apprenticeship and T Level pathways, shaping qualification design, expanding STEM and early engagement activity, and increasing the number of young people entering the profession.