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
2 Mar 2026
Members are invited to attend the launch of the IOR's Industry Skills Alliance. This event is open to individuals interested in shaping the future of the skills agenda for the RACHP sector. Find out more about the evet and the role of the Skills Alliance here.
9 Mar 2026
The recording for the IOR TechTalk on “Unscrambling the Refrigerant Clutter for the Future” on 5th March is now available from the IOR Webinar Channel.
3 Mar 2026
The Engineering and Building Services Skills Alliance (EBSSA) published recently their strategic Sector Skills Plan, as part of the work undertaken by the Construction Mission Skills Board.
26 Feb 2026
We're delighted to announce that the IOR Technician App has been shortlisted as a finalist for the ACR News Awards in the Training Initiative of the Year Category.
24 Feb 2026
A review of the IOR Constitution has been carried out to ensure it complies with current Charity Commission guidance and improve the wording for clarity. Open for consultation and comment by members until 30th April 2026.