By Eamonn Ryan
The Southern African Development Community Refrigeration and Air Conditioning (SADC RAC) association held a workshop in Johannesburg in November. This is Part 2 of a seven-part article.
The audience at the SADC RAC in November. © RACA Journal
The association works closely with the SAQCC Gas to maintain a registry of qualified technicians, ensuring that every individual in the industry is properly certified and equipped to perform their duties safely. This collaborative effort is essential in preventing accidents and ensuring that refrigerants, which can be hazardous to both human health and the environment, are managed responsibly.
David Botha, the executive director of both the South African Qualification and Certification Committee (SAQCC) and the South African Refrigeration Air Conditioning Contractors’ Association (SARACCA), noted the importance of using refrigerants safely to protect both technicians and the environment. He noted that refrigerants are classified based on their hazardous properties, such as flammability and toxicity, and it is essential that technicians are trained to handle these substances with care. The goal is to ensure that technicians not only perform their work safely but also contribute to minimising the environmental impact of refrigerants, particularly those that contribute to ozone depletion and climate change.
The safety and environmental impact of refrigerants are of particular concern in South Africa, where refrigeration and air conditioning are integral to a wide range of industries, including supermarkets, pharmaceuticals, mining and more. Technicians must be aware of the risks associated with the substances they work with and take the necessary precautions to avoid accidents. Botha highlighted the dangerous potential of improperly handled refrigerants, referencing incidents of explosions and injuries that have been captured in videos circulating on social media. Such events underscore the importance of proper training and certification.
A growing concern within the South African HVAC&R industry is the shortage of qualified technicians. Botha noted that while efforts are being made to train more professionals, the current infrastructure is not sufficient to meet the rising demand. He advocated for the establishment of more training centres across the country and discussed the potential of e-learning initiatives to increase access to certification programmes, especially for technicians in remote areas. By expanding training options, South Africa can ensure that more individuals are equipped with the necessary skills to safely handle refrigerants and work within the industry.
Botha also touched upon the growing shift towards natural refrigerants, which are more environmentally friendly compared to traditional synthetic refrigerants. He pointed out that while the industry has made significant strides in adopting these alternative substances, it is crucial to ensure that technicians are properly trained to handle these new refrigerants, which can present their own set of challenges in terms of safety and performance.
The transition to natural refrigerants represents a significant opportunity for the industry to reduce its environmental impact. However, this transition also necessitates a new level of technical expertise. Botha emphasised that as the industry moves toward these more sustainable options, it will be essential to maintain a focus on technician education and certification.
