F-Gasses

Guidance on use of f-gases

This guidance, published by the Environment Agency and DEFRA, sets out the regulatory requirements for organisations that use, service, produce, import, export or sell fluorinated greenhouse gases (F-gases) and equipment containing them.

The UK F-gas regime is designed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by controlling the production, import, sale, use and disposal of high global warming potential gases. Compliance typically requires certified personnel, leak management, record keeping, quota controls, equipment labelling and verification that gases are not subject to current or future bans. For businesses using refrigeration, air conditioning or SF₆ equipment, these are the most significant operational obligations.

911½ñÈÕºÚÁÏ is registered to use f-gases for certain applications, but the usage and quantities need to be registered prior to purchasing the substances. Please contact safetydept@imperial.ac.uk if you need ot use anything subject to these regulations. In some cases, specific training may also be required.

What are F-gases?

The guidance applies to:

  • Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs)
  • Perfluorocarbons (PFCs)
  • Sulphur hexafluoride (SF₆)

These gases are commonly found in refrigeration, air conditioning, switchgear, aerosols, solvents and other industrial equipment.

Key Requirements

  1. Producers, Importers and Exporters

Organisations manufacturing, importing or exporting F-gases or equipment pre-charged with F-gases must:

  • Comply with import/export controls.
  • Maintain records and submit regulatory reports.
  • Obtain and manage F-gas quotas where required.
  • Follow specific rules for movements between Great Britain and Northern Ireland.
  1. Quota Management

Businesses placing bulk F-gases on the Great Britain market may need:

  • An allocated quota.
  • A transferred quota.
  • A quota authorisation or delegation from an existing quota holder.
  1. Users and Service Providers

Companies operating or maintaining F-gas equipment may need to:

  • Hold appropriate personnel qualifications.
  • Obtain company certification.
  • Conduct leak checks.
  • Keep records of F-gas quantities in equipment.
  • Recover, recycle or reclaim gases during maintenance or decommissioning.
  • Follow specific requirements for SF₆-containing electrical switchgear.
  1. Equipment Labelling

All products containing regulated F-gases that are produced, imported or installed must be correctly labelled.

  1. Bans and Restrictions

Organisations must check whether:

  • Certain F-gases are prohibited for refilling existing equipment.
  • Particular F-gases are banned in new products or equipment placed on the market.
  • Any exemptions apply to their intended use.
  1. Sales Controls

Specific legal requirements apply when selling:

  • F-gases in cylinders.
  • Equipment containing F-gases.