15 Nov 2021
The following guidance to assist installers and suppliers in compliance is available from the IOR website:
RACHP Systems: The Pressure Equipment (Safety) Regulations and Pressure Equipment Directive (GN36) - Published in 2021 this IOR Technical Committee guidance note outlines the legal requirements of the Pressure Equipment (Safety) Regulations - PE(S)R and Pressure Equipment Directive (PED) for installers of RACHP systems. In the RACHP sector components are supplied by a manufacturer for site installation by a specialist third party contractor who might not realise that they have the responsibilities of the manufacturer of the assembly under PE(S)R. With the move to R32 and other A2L refrigerants, classified as PE(S)R group 1 fluid (“dangerous”), this moves many systems from SEP (sound engineering practice) or hazard category 1 into hazard category 2 or higher. Systems which are category 2 or higher must comply with the PE(S)R and must be assessed by an approved Conformity Assessment Body or under an assessment scheme which has been certified by a Conformity Assessment Body. Download at https://ior.org.uk/technical/buy-documents?id=667&state=b
Pressure Testing RACHP Systems (GN35) - This IOR Technical Committee Guidance Note provides an explanation of the different ways in which a system has to be tested under pressure for Strength, Tightness and Leaks. Download at https://ior.org.uk/technical/buy-documents?id=655&state=b
PED Guide to pressure systems installation site assembly - published by SAFED 2021, the Pressure Equipment Consultation Forum (PECF), Safety Assessment Federation (SAFed) and Engineering Equipment and Materials Users Association (EEMUA) in consultation with Lloyd’s Register and other stakeholders within the pressure equipment industry to help designers, purchasers, installation contractors, users and other parties achieve their legal requirements to
ensure pressure equipment can be correctly certified prior to use in the United Kingdom. It was prepared using technical advice provided by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). Download at https://ior.org.uk/technical/buy-documents?id=666&state=b or www.safed.co.uk
To find a list of UK Market Conformity Assessment Bodies see https://www.gov.uk/uk-market-conformity-assessment-bodies?uk_market_conformity_assessment_body_legislative_area%5B%5D=pressure-equipment
Queries about these guidance notes or other technical matters can be addressed to the Institute of Refrigeration Technical Committee here.
If you are an installer, manufacturer or user of refrigeration and air conditioning equipment, you should consider joining the Institute of Refrigeration. The IOR is an independent organisation, whose members are individual experts whether they work as engineers, technicians, manufacturers or researchers. Find out how you can become part of the IOR at www.ior.org.uk/membership
15 Sep 2025
This year’s AGM will be held on 29th October. members can vote in advance, or attend live in person or online.
10 Jul 2025
The IOR’s RACHP EngTech Section is proud to announce the launch of an innovative mobile technician’s app, now available on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.
6 Oct 2025
HSE is gathering information and evidence relating to the Pressure Systems Safety Regulations 2000 (PSSR) and whether their scope and application are still fit for purpose.
30 Sep 2025
The paper by Prof. Ahmed Kovacevic, FREng on emerging technologies in compressors and their systems is now available and will be presented online and in person on 29 October 2025.
29 Sep 2025
Congratulations to all the winners and shortlisted candidates whose success highlights the passion and talent driving the RACHP sector forward.