The Fluorinated Greenhouse Gases Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2015, No. 425 (as amended)

The Fluorinated Greenhouse Gases Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2015 aim to regulate the use, handling, and release of fluorinated greenhouse gases (F-gases) to mitigate their impact on climate change. Here's a summary of its purpose, requirements, and applicability:

1. Purpose: These regulations are designed to reduce emissions of F-gases, which are potent greenhouse gases with high global warming potential. By controlling the production, use, and release of F-gases, the regulations seek to limit their contribution to climate change and promote the transition to more environmentally friendly alternatives.
2. Requirements: The regulations set out requirements for the containment, handling, recovery, recycling, and destruction of F-gases to minimize their release into the atmosphere. They establish measures for leak prevention, leak detection, and reporting of F-gas usage, as well as requirements for certification, training, and competence of personnel involved in handling F-gases.
3. Applicability: The regulations apply to a wide range of activities and sectors where F-gases are used or produced, including but not limited to refrigeration, air conditioning, heat pump systems, fire protection, and electrical switchgear. They apply to manufacturers, importers, users, installers, and operators of equipment containing F-gases, as well as companies involved in the supply chain and maintenance of F-gas equipment.

In summary, The Fluorinated Greenhouse Gases Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2015 aim to control the emissions of F-gases by regulating their use, handling, and release, with the overarching goal of mitigating climate change and promoting sustainable environmental practices.

The evidence requirements of The Fluorinated Greenhouse Gases Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2015 primarily focus on monitoring, reporting, and compliance verification related to the use, handling, and release of fluorinated greenhouse gases (F-gases). Here's a summary of the key elements:

1. Usage Reporting: Entities subject to the regulations must maintain records of the quantity of F-gases produced, imported, exported, and placed on the market. This includes detailed information on the types of F-gases used, the volume or mass of each gas, and the purpose of use.
2. Leak Prevention and Detection Records: Facilities and equipment containing F-gases must implement measures for leak prevention, such as regular maintenance and inspection schedules. Records of leak checks, leak detection system performance, and any corrective actions taken in response to leaks must be maintained.
3. Recovery and Recycling Documentation: Entities involved in the handling and disposal of F-gases must keep records of the recovery, recycling, and destruction of F-gases. This includes documentation of recovery rates, recycling processes, and disposal methods used to minimize emissions.
4. Certification and Training Records: Personnel responsible for handling F-gases must be appropriately trained and certified to ensure competence in safe handling practices. Records of training programs attended, certifications obtained, and ongoing competency assessments must be maintained.
5. Compliance Documentation: Regulatory authorities may require entities to submit reports or documentation demonstrating compliance with specific requirements of the regulations. This could include evidence of equipment maintenance, leak prevention measures, emission reduction strategies, and other compliance efforts.
6. Audits and Inspections: Regulatory authorities may conduct audits or inspections to verify compliance with the regulations. Entities must cooperate with inspectors, provide access to relevant records and documentation, and address any identified non-compliance issues promptly.

In summary, The Fluorinated Greenhouse Gases Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2015 require entities to maintain comprehensive records and documentation related to the usage, handling, and disposal of F-gases to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and facilitate effective monitoring and enforcement of environmental protection measures.