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
23 Apr 2026
The Institute of Refrigeration is the professional engineering body for all individuals working in RACHP. Find out more about the IOR here.
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.
3 Jun 2026
This new education guidance note outlines an example of an effective in-house training and engineering development programme, and demonstrates how employers can successfully build their own design capability, develop future technical leaders and create a sustainable skills pipeline for both their organisation and the wider industry.
2 Jun 2026
A new STEM careers leaflet is now available from the IOR! It's an ideal resource for anyone engaging with young people about opportunities in the cooling sector. It showcases the vital role cooling plays in modern life, the diverse areas they could work in, and the all‑important insights into career progression and salary expectations!