WHY DO I NEED A FILLERS LICENSE?

One of the roles of Refrigerant License New Zealand (RLNZ) is to ensure that there is a better understanding about Hazardous Substances and New Organisms Act 1996 (HSNO) requirements and the risks of releasing harmful refrigerants into the atmosphere.

RLNZ was part of the industry’s response to the Tamahere cool store disaster, when it was revealed that there was widespread ignorance of the regulations, and that many unqualified people were carrying out unsatisfactory work, often in direct contravention of the Compressed Gas and other regulations.

The Approved Filler course (required by the HSNO 2004 Compressed Gas Regulations) is the minimum legal obligation for anyone working with refrigerant.

Why do I have to do an Approved Filler certification when I am already qualified as a refrigeration technician?

Under the Health and Safety at Work (Hazardous Substances) Regulations 2017, anybody handling or recovering compressed gases must have had suitable training and hold an Approved Filler Test Certificate. Most refrigerants currently used in New Zealand are classified as compressed gases under the Health and Safety at Work (Hazardous Substances) Regulations 2017. Some refrigerants currently used in New Zealand such as propane and butane are flammable and hazardous substances under the HSNO Act. Therefore, nearly all users of refrigerants are required by legislation to hold an Approved Filler Test Certificate.

What are A2/A2L refrigerants?

A2/A2L refrigerants are: R1234yf, R1234ze, R454C, R455A, R454A, R454B, R447A, R32, R452B. If you are using any of these refrigerants then pass an A1 online theory, A2/A2L online theory and A2/A2L practical assessment.

How do I renew my Approved Fillers license with RLNZ?

Renew your RLNZ license by learning current information for A1 and A2/A2L refrigerants and passing a practical assessment using current materials and fit for purpose technology.

Please register here:

A1 Approved Filler for non flammable refrigerants, with A1 practical assessment or

A2/A2L Approved Filler for flammable refrigerants, with A2 practical assessment

Useful links:

Health and Safety at Work (Hazardous Substances) Regulations 2017 https://www.worksafe.govt.nz/topic-and-industry/hazardous-substances/

Approved Filler Test Certificate https://www.worksafe.govt.nz/topic-and-industry/hazardous-substances/certification-authorisation-approvals-and-licensing/certification-of-people/approved-fillers/