29 Sep 2022
The IOR technical committee has published a technical guidance note on working on cold store ceilings. The guidance relates specifically to insulated cold and chill stores that are constructed within a building structure with ceiling panels that are supported by that structure, typically using drop rods suspended from a portal frame or building truss. Many refrigerated warehouses and factories are constructed from composite insulated panels which provide a barrier to heat and moisture gain from the surroundings. Accidents and near misses over many years have shown that the original design may be insufficient to safely carry in-service or maintenance loads and can be seriously compromised by degradation of the insulation material or the support structure. The purpose of this Guidance Note is to provide a reference for good practice in design of these buildings and their use and maintenance. The guidance includes sections on design, installation, inspection and maintenance, other safety considerations and general recommendations. It also includes links to useful further information such as the IOR Cold Store Code of Practice, HSE alerts and key legislation and standards.
Free to download here
9 Feb 2026
The IOR has released a new guidance note for those involved in recruitment, development or training within the UK RACHP sector, outlining how to harness the valuable skills that Veterans and Service Leavers bring to the industry and support their introduction into the RACHP profession.
5 Feb 2026
The Institute of Refrigeration has just released a report summarising the key findings and conclusions from its The Future of Training – Right Skills for the Right Job Survey, which it conducted among IOR members in October 2025 to explore future skills and qualification needs within the sector.
5 Feb 2026
The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero has recently released a series of upskilling videos for heat networks. These videos are to support upskilling operation and maintenance in the heat networks sector.
4 Feb 2026
Just downloaded the IOR Technician App? This video walks you through the essentials of using our app, step by step. You’ll see exactly where to tap, how to navigate key tools, and how to get the most out of the app’s main functions. It’s designed to help you feel confident and ready to use the app smoothly from the very start.
3 Feb 2026
The IOR and CIBSE are pleased to announce that they will be working together to provide their respective members with access to relevant technical events in 2026 as part of their commitment to members’ professional development and sharing of expertise.