The Updated Refrigerant Handling Code of Practice: What You Need to Know
Australia’s refrigeration and air-conditioning (RAC) industry is evolving, and with it, so are the standards and regulations that govern best practices. The updated Refrigerant Handling Code of Practice (2025 Edition) has been released by the Australian Refrigeration Council (ARC) under the ARCTick program, replacing the 2007 version. This new code reflects the latest in safety, environmental protection, and compliance requirements for technicians and businesses handling refrigerants.
Here’s a breakdown of what you need to know about the updated code, including key changes, environmental considerations, safety measures, and compliance obligations.
Key Objectives of the Code
The primary goal of the Refrigerant Handling Code of Practice is to minimise refrigerant emissions into the atmosphere to protect the ozone layer and reduce greenhouse gas impacts. The updated code:
- Covers the entire refrigerant lifecycle – from system design and installation to maintenance, decommissioning, and recovery.
- Applies to all scheduled fluorocarbon refrigerants regulated under Australian law.
- Provides guidance on both mandatory legal requirements (“must”) and recommended best practices (“should”).
- Ensures industry professionals meet their legal obligations under the Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas Management Act 1989.
What’s New in the 2025 Edition?
The 2025 update brings several important changes, aligning the Code of Practice with modern industry standards:
1. Alignment with Current Standards & Regulations
The new code reflects updates to Australian and New Zealand standards, ensuring best practice guidance for system design, installation, and maintenance.
2. Greater Focus on Leak Prevention & Detection
- Leak checking is now a mandatory step during maintenance.
- Topping up a leaking system without repairing it is prohibited.
- Emphasis on proactive maintenance to prevent refrigerant loss.
3. Recognition of New Refrigerants & Technologies
- Acknowledges the transition to lower-GWP refrigerants (including flammable alternatives like R32 and R1234yf).
- Provides additional guidance for handling flammable refrigerants.
4. Strengthened Safety Measures
- Explicit bans on unsafe practices such as using refrigerant for pressure testing (nitrogen must be used instead).
- Clearer guidance on safe cylinder storage and handling.
- Enhanced recommendations for working with flammable refrigerants, including proper ventilation, leak detection, and PPE use.
5. Improved Clarity on Compliance & Enforcement
- More explicit linkage to the ARC Refrigerant Handling Licence (RHL) and Refrigerant Trading Authorisation (RTA) requirements.
- ARC field officers will audit businesses and technicians to ensure compliance.
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Environmental Considerations
With a strong focus on sustainability, the updated code reinforces several critical environmental practices:
- Zero Venting Policy – Venting refrigerants into the atmosphere is strictly prohibited.
- Mandatory Recovery & Proper Disposal – All refrigerant must be reclaimed, recycled, or sent for destruction.
- Encouragement of Low-GWP Refrigerants – Transitioning to lower-GWP alternatives is supported where possible.
These measures align with Australia’s HFC phase-down program, ensuring that the RAC industry plays its part in reducing global emissions.
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Key Safety Measures for Technicians
The code provides comprehensive safety guidance, ensuring that technicians work safely and efficiently. Some of the most important updates include:
- Proper Equipment Use – Recovery units, vacuum pumps, and leak detectors must be used correctly to prevent leaks.
- Flammable Refrigerant Precautions – Extra safety measures are outlined for flammable refrigerants, including no open flames, proper ventilation, and fire safety protocols.
- Cylinder Storage & Handling – Cylinders must be secured, stored upright, and regularly leak-tested.
- Training & Licensing – Only trained, qualified, and licensed technicians can handle refrigerants.
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Compliance & Legal Obligations
Compliance with the Code of Practice is not optional—it is legally enforceable for all ARC licence holders. Key points to note:
- Mandatory for Licence Holders – All RHL and RTA holders must comply with the code.
- Regular Audits & Inspections – ARC field officers will conduct compliance audits.
- Record-Keeping Requirements – Businesses must track refrigerant usage, recovery, and disposal.
- Failure to Comply Has Consequences – Non-compliance can result in fines, loss of licence, or legal action.
By following the updated Code of Practice, businesses and technicians ensure they are meeting legal obligations while upholding industry standards.
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Why This Matters
The 2025 Refrigerant Handling Code of Practice is a crucial update for the Australian refrigeration and air-conditioning industry. It ensures that professionals are working to reduce emissions, enhance safety, and comply with the latest regulations.
By staying informed and implementing these best practices, technicians and businesses contribute to a more sustainable and responsible industry while safeguarding their own operations.
For more information, visit [ARCTick’s official website](https://arctick.org/refrigerant-handling-licence/codes-of-practice/).
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Your Thoughts?
How do you think these changes will impact the RAC industry? Are there any aspects of the update that stand out to you? Let’s discuss in the comments!