Distributor takes stand on supply of refrigerants
IDS Refrigeration has declared that it will only supply refrigerants to contracting companies which employ engineers suitably trained and qualified to work on air-conditioning and refrigeration systems. Managing director Mel Bridges say, ‘A great deal of industry discussion has taken place on this issue over the past few years, particularly in recent months. After careful consideration, rather than wait any longer for the anticipated introduction of regulatory controls, we have decided to take positive action with the introduction of our own scheme. This will support the many responsible contractors who have invested in their refrigeration and air-conditioning engineers over the years, and are continuing to do so.’ IDS Refrigeration has taken this step as it believes it has a duty of care to businesses purchasing its products, and that engineers using its refrigerants should be trained as required by legislation. Currently, it is not illegal to supply refrigerant to any contractor. This IDS initiative has won warm support from the industry at large including training specialist Business Edge. Mike Creamer, managing director of Business Edge, says, ‘Over the past 12 months, many of my contracting clients have asked when our sector is going to put its house in order and only supply refrigerant to suitably trained and certified personnel. Personally, I have been amazed at the way in which contracting companies and freelance engineers have voluntarily undertaken CITB Refrigerant Safe Handling Certification over the last 10 years, even though this was not a mandatory requirement until now. This IDS initiative is a responsible and forward-thinking action. I sincerely hope that other distributors follow this initiative and exemplary IDS lead. This will also send the right message to Government, confirming the genuine interest we all have in providing essential and efficient cooling/heating, whilst protecting our environment.’
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