If you’re working on air conditioning systems on today’s cars, especially hybrids or electric vehicles, the right certification is essential. Most of these systems now use F-Gases (Fluorinated Greenhouse Gases), which are tightly regulated. Without proper training, it is illegal to handle them and doing so could be unsafe.

Limerick and Clare Education and Training Board (ETB) offer mobile up-to-date F-Gas training that comes to your workshop, anywhere in Ireland, Courses are run by expert instructor Brian O’Flaherty, who’s been training garage and workshop staff for over 11 years.

Brian says, “A/C systems contain Fluorinated Greenhouse Gases and to handle F-Gas in the workplace, you are legally required to hold valid certification as recognised by the EU. We offer training to achieve this, which is approved by Quality and Qualifications Ireland (QQI) and the national awarding body for F-Gas Registration, FGR.” 

Recently introduced EU legislation (EC 573/2024) has brought in stricter rules for anyone working with F-Gases, including in mobile air-conditioning systems. Brian also points out that many technicians previously completed F-Gas training with other awarding bodies. He says, “Under new EU rules these certs are no longer valid, so it is important to update to a course recognised by the EPA.” 

One major change is the introduction of mandatory refresher training. The EPA will soon confirm the schedule, but it’s expected to be required every five years. Speaking about this Brian said: “The F-Gas used in vehicles is changing, not only is the more flammable R1234yf being increasingly used, but R744 is now used in some VW and Mercedes models, which again has different handling requirements. This means it is important to train regularly to stay up-to-date.”

Unlike other training options, Limerick and Clare ETB makes it easy and cost-effective by bringing the course directly to a workshop, meaning no travel r loss of working hours. 

Brian explains, “We have a fully equipped training van, complete with test equipment and simulator. This means we can offer a comprehensive one day course for up to eight participants on site.”

The one-day course is split into two parts, with the covering F-Gases theory and legal requirements and the afternoon being hands-on training using the workshops own equipment, plus the training van’s tools and simulator. Training includes safe handling, installation, servicing, and repairs to recovering and decommissioning A/C systems. After completing the course, participants receive a QQI Level 5 Special Purpose Award Certificate.

If preferred, the training can also take place at Limerick and Clare ETB’s College of Further Education and Training (FET) Shannon Campus, located at Shannon Industrial Estate, Shannon. Co. Clare.

This is a practical course aimed not just at achieving the appropriate certification, but at recognising the environmental and personal dangers of handling F-Gas, how to make A/C service and repair more efficient and getting the most out of A/C service equipment. This is a fast growing business area, so having the relevant knowledge and skills can really give a garage an advantage.

Brian says the feedback from technicians is always very positive and Limerick and Clare ETB were winners of the Best Training provider at the Institute of Refrigeration Ireland’s Industry Awards 2024.

To find out more or book a course visit collegeofFET.ie/fgas, email: fgas@lcetb.ie or call Brian on: 086 205 3158.