16 Mar 2023
The IOR has today released a specification for skills, knowledge and behaviours of those working as RACHP Mechanics and Operatives in our sector. The specification is the result of several years of debate and discussion with employers and training providers to clarify the specific requirements and expectations of those employees working in Mechanic/Operative roles and the range of qualification options available to employers and individuals.
The Mechanic/Operative specification covers a range of different job such as Pipework Installer, Service and Maintenance Operative, Air conditioning unit installer etc. It acknowledges that there are various specialist occupations at this level but that all require knowledge of basic refrigerant principles and a thorough understanding of specific tasks related to their role. There are currently qualifications available that fit these requirements such as City & Guilds Diplomas 6090-2 and 6187-01/02 that could be used to provide underpinning knowledge and assessment leading to a suitable Level 2 qualification. Over time, those working in these roles will acquire further skills and knowledge gained from experience at work and might then wish to progress onto a Level 3 RACHP EngTech Apprenticeship.
The purpose is to encourage discussion and provide guidance for the sector. The IOR Education and Training Committee has produced a number of similar Specifications in recent years including one for RACHP Engineering Technicians (based on the Level 3 Apprenticeship) and another for Design Engineers. This new specification includes a useful diagram explaining progression routes between the various roles. The IOR suggests this could be used to help employers draft skills specifications for recruitment purposes, benchmarking employee training and development programmes, as a checklist for continued professional development of technicians, or even as a specification to develop new in-house qualifications.
Download the specification here
Issued initially as a draft for comment, the IOR is welcoming feedback to ior@ior.org.uk
21 Jul 2025
We encourage all members to engage in the consultation process by reading the draft standard and submitting comments through the on-line BSI portal, or by sending comments back to the Institute Technical Committee who will collate the comments and submit them on your behalf.
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.
29 Jul 2025
Three candidates for the next IOR President-Elect have been announced and an election will be held later this year.
24 Jul 2025
We regret to report the sad news that Paul Moseley a Fellow of the Institute and long term member has passed away
21 Jul 2025
The IOR is calling for submissions for the Beyond Refrigeration Environmental Award! This prestigious annual award celebrates innovative UK projects that are making a real impact by cutting environmental emissions from cooling systems, driving us closer to vital net-zero goals.