ACRIB Flammable Refrigerants Training Course (A2L, A2, A3)

This course is designed to provide a thorough understanding of working safely and compliantly with flammable refrigerants in RACHP systems. Training covers both essential theory and practical application, equipping you with the knowledge and skills required to meet current legal and industry standards.

Theory

You will learn to identify and understand the different classes of flammability for refrigerants, referencing key legislation, safety standards such as BS EN 378, ISO 5149, BS EN 60335, and manufacturers’ guidelines. The course covers:

• The classification of refrigerants by flammability and their implications in the workplace.
• Specific health and safety considerations when handling A2L, A2, and A3 refrigerants.
• Legislative and organisational procedures to ensure compliance during the installation, servicing, maintenance, and decommissioning of RACHP systems using flammable refrigerants.
• The differences between various refrigerant classes and how they apply across different RACHP system types.
• Procedures for planning and preparing safe working environments before engaging with RACHP systems.

Practical Application

You will be guided through the correct steps to:

• Plan and prepare for work on systems containing flammable refrigerants.
• Install and pressure-test RACHP equipment in accordance with safety standards and manufacturers’ specifications.
• Perform servicing and maintenance activities, ensuring safe and effective handling, leak detection, and component replacement as required.
• Carry out proper decommissioning procedures for systems containing flammable refrigerants, utilising safe recovery and disposal methods.

The course combines knowledge with real-world practice, ensuring you are able both to understand and to apply the correct procedures at every stage of working with flammable refrigerants. All content is aligned with the ACRIB specification, helping you to achieve competence recognised throughout the industry. You will receive a comprehensive Flammable Refrigerants Reference Training Manual as part of the course.

Assessment for this course is carried out through a multiple-choice theory test, which can be completed in-centre. Upon successful completion, candidates will receive the LCL Awards Level 3 Award in Understanding the Properties and Use of Flammable Refrigerants in Accordance with ACRIB Specification (A2L, A2, and A3). The assessment and certification fees are included in the course price. The awarded certificate will remain valid for five years.

Candidates must hold a valid Level 3 F-Gas certificate, either category 1 or 2. Practical field experience in refrigeration, air conditioning, or heat pump systems is strongly recommended.

All required personal protective equipment (PPE) will be provided for use while attending the course in the training centre. The course fees include all tuition, assessment and refreshments. You will receive a comprehensive Flammable Refrigerants Reference Training Manual as part of the course.

This course is for qualified engineers and technicians in refrigeration, air conditioning, or heat pump sectors who need to handle flammable refrigerants in compliance with ACRIB, legal, and industry standards.

These are international safety classifications for refrigerant flammability and toxicity:

• A2L Refrigerants (e.g., R32, R1234yf) have lower flammability. They are difficult to ignite but are still subject to specific safety rules for handling, storage, and transport.
• A2 Refrigerants are classified as flammable but are less common in the UK market.
• A3 Refrigerants (e.g., R290 Propane, R600a Isobutane) have higher flammability and require the most stringent safety procedures.

Yes, a current Level 3 F-Gas certificate (category 1 or 2) is required, in line with ACRIB specification entry standards.

Certificates are valid for 5 years and are recognised throughout the industry as compliance with the ACRIB flammable refrigerant specification.