IOR Newsletter
A Year for Connection, Cooperation and Bold Steps Forward
IOR President Lisa-Jayne Cook FInstR reflects on the power of working together
As I begin to settle into my term as President of the Institute of Refrigeration, I’m thrilled to focus on a theme that, I hope, will guide us throughout the year: collaboration.
The RACHP industry doesn’t work in isolation - it’s deeply intertwined with the worlds of sustainability, engineering, and public wellbeing. That’s why it’s vital for the Institute to have a seat at the table with fellow engineering organisations. I’ve already had the privilege of seeing this in action at the recent Presidents’ Breakfast Meeting in London with ASHRAE, IMechE, and CIBSE. It was inspiring to witness leaders from across our field coming together, sharing ideas, and focusing on how we can support each other and create meaningful change.
This collaborative spirit is also at the heart of the Institute’s recent strategic priorities review. Members from our technical, education, environment, service, international, membership, and publications groups came together in November to identify the key issues our industry must address. The consensus was clear: education and skills are the unifying priority for the refrigeration, air conditioning, and heat pump (RACHP) industry. This focus builds on the momentum of the past two years, with achievements such as the launch of new STEM toolkits, the expansion of our educational website, and the award-winning Masterclasses for apprentices.
This renewed emphasis on education isn’t just about equipping our workforce with the skills to meet today’s demands, it’s about preparing for the challenges and opportunities of tomorrow. As John Skelton FInstR, Chair of the Educational Committee, rightly pointed out, “The IOR needs to continue to show leadership.......ensuring the right training for the right role, and the right skills for the future.”
To advance this critical priority, the IOR is initiating a project to map out gaps in training provision, qualifications, and skills. This will involve close collaboration with training providers, employers, and other industry bodies, with the goal of producing a white paper to guide discussions with Government and training organisations. Already, members across the education, technical, and environment sectors are stepping up to shape this work. If you’d like to contribute your expertise and help influence the future positively, I’d love to hear from you.
As we embark on this exciting journey, I’m incredibly optimistic about what we can achieve together. This is a year for connection, cooperation, and bold steps forward. Let’s make it a success—together.
Editor: Miriam Rodway
Design and Applications Courses What’s Missing?
Liam Davies MInstR discusses the lack of availability of design and applications courses for the sector and explores potential industry solutions to support the next generation of design engineers
I ndustry training is more visible than ever, with several excellent examples on offer through various institutions, and strong performances by GB entrants at the recent WorldSkills competition. This is great to see.
At a recent workshop at Glasgow Kelvin College, I was impressed with the level of enthusiasm and engagement shown by participants, particularly from industry apprentices looking to develop their knowledge and skills.
Despite progress in a number of areas, there still seems to be a gap in formal industry training when it comes to system design. To give an illustration, my employer recently brought on a trainee sales engineer from a pool of graduates. However, when searching for suitable courses, I was unable to find anything beyond short-form courses of one to five days.
Having discussed this with industry contacts, it appears many people are developing their own internal programmes – but all informal, with recognition only through experience.
The gap on formal provision for training in system design doesn’t seem to be something new. It resonates with my experience when I joined the industry in 2011, and moved straight into a technical applications role. I was signed-up to a distance learning course on building services and air conditioning, and, perhaps surprisingly, didn’t even receive a welcome e-mail from my tutor, let alone any other form of communication.
Contribute to the Skills Spec Review
The IOR is forming a working group to help review the current Skills Specification for Design Engineers. This initiative aims to align the specs with existing industry courses and training opportunities. Are you interested in shaping the future of skills development in our industry? Contact us at ior@ior.org.uk to get involved.
As a result of this lack of engagement, it was little surprise I left the course after a month. It is slightly disheartening to see not much has progressed over the past fourteen years.
The focus on service is of course important. We need skilled technicians and boots on the ground to install and maintain equipment. However, we need to train a new generation of applications engineers on how to design efficient and reliable systems, particularly given the imperative to reduce the impact of refrigeration and heating equipment on the environment.
With this in mind, I am keen to collaborate with industry contacts during 2025, to develop a long-form standardised design course to transfer existing knowledge from the industry to the next generation, and protect this vital skill while we can.
If you would like to contribute, or have ideas on what such a course should cover and how it could be implemented, please get in touch. I would be delighted to hear from you.
From Apprentice to World-Class Engineer
“Aim to be THE Engineer,” says Luke Haile TMInstR, reflecting on winning the Silver Medal at this year’s WorldSkills and the growth he experienced throughout his learning journey.
When I began my career, I never imagined I’d one day be recognised as one of the best in the world. Starting as an apprentice, I was eager to learn and determined to advance in any way I could. It was during this period that my tutor Shaun Creech encouraged me to take part in WorldSkills. The competition began at college level, progressed to regional and then national stages and in 2022, I earned the UK Gold Medal in Refrigeration and Air Conditioning.
WorldSkills is no ordinary competition. It pushes you to your limits, demanding not only technical precision but also the ability to perform under extreme pressure. I’m incredibly grateful for the unwavering support of my employer and the guidance of my training manager Mark Forsyth who continuously challenged me to improve.
My preparation took me across the globe, across England to China and France, each experience sharpening my abilities and preparing me for the ultimate test. But this journey has always
been about more than “winning”.
For me, it’s been about growth—learning to push boundaries, embrace challenges, and strive for excellence. If there’s one piece of advice I could share, it’s this: take every opportunity to improve, be proactive, and never shy away from pushing your limits. Remember, you have a choice. Don’t just aim to be an engineer—aim to be THE engineer:
• The one others look up to.
• The one solving problems no one else can.
• The one who gets it right the first time.
• The one making a real difference. The path to excellence isn’t easy, but it’s worth every step. Aim high, challenge yourself, and discover just how far you can go.
What did I just build? Young people consider a career in RACHP
Recruiting new blood for the RACHP may require lateral thinking according to Edwin Bowater MInstR
There will be little disagreement with the statement that the UK refrigeration industry needs to recruit new blood (both young and old) – the question instead is how can we, as an industry, best achieve this? There is no one single solution; at one end of the age spectrum, we should talk to and inspire young people by making them aware of how close and necessary refrigeration is to their everyday lives. At the other end, we should be actively looking to recruit people from outside of our industry in order to bring in new and fresh ideas. Finally, we must raise awareness.
The IOR’s recent Lego initiative is just one example of indirectly expanding refrigeration’s reach to people, both young and old. The initial satisfaction of completing the model, will hopefully be followed by questions, such as “what have I just built?” or “how does it work?”. In those words, the seed of refrigeration has been planted and who knows, one day that person may decide to enter our industry.
At the IOR Dinner in 2010, the after-dinner speaker, Gyles Brandreth, opened his address by asking “Who on earth is the Institute of Refrigeration?” – it raised a laugh – but the serious point was that we do not promote ourselves or our industry enough. We need to change this.
Cooling Matters at COP
Cooling featured significantly at COP29 last year, partly because it was the first anniversary of the signing of the Global Cooling Pledge, but also because cooling is gaining momentum.
In both of these the UK was very central. Particularly with The Global Cooling Pledge Ministerial Round Table where they welcomed more countries to the group, and discussed a new “Intergovernmental Committee of Cooling”. Graeme Maidment from SICE (DESNZ) moderated the meeting – Graeme is a past President of the IOR and has been involved in developing the IOR Beyond Refrigeration environment initiative. You can read more about the round table at https://coolcoalition.org/ cop29-ministerial-roundtabledelivering-on-the-global-coolingpledge/
At a Buildings and Cooling Pavilion organised by the UNEP Cities unit there were 50 events that were either building, cooling or jointly related to both. Topics on cooling related to district cooling, NCAPs (National Cooling Action Plans), embedding cooling within NDCs (Nationally Determined Contributions), Passive cooling and district cooling. UK initiatives that were discussed included ACES (African Centre of Excellence in Sustainable Cooling), the Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers leading on Part O of the Building Regulations and the TICR (Transport Industrial and Commercial Refrigeration) project – which IOR is a partner in.
Events at COP can play an
important role in driving the world towards net zero by demonstrating that real-world climate action is possible and is taking place. They can also help bring new and emerging information to a range of actors, encourage delegates to think differently about issues, and promote the UK’s work, as well as provide opportunities to build our connections and collaborations.
At COP this time, these provided the opportunity to develop international links on innovation in cooling, discuss collaboration with the Montreal Protocol secretariat and explore how cooling might be embedded in UK policy.
Enter the IOR Beyond Refrigeration Award
The IOR Beyond Refrigeration Award is presented annually at the IOR Dinner to a project or innovation that demonstrates the achievements of our sector in reducing environmental emissions from cooling in the UK. Entries are accepted year round. Visit www.ior.org.uk/beyond-refrigeration-environment-award to find out more and to download an application form.
The Key to Net-Zero?
Whilst education is central to achieving net-zero, there are many more factors to consider, argues Dermot Cotter FInstR
Achieving Net Zero in refrigeration requires a robust education system for engineers and technicians, supplemented by resources like IOR CoolTalks, MasterClasses, Codes of Practice and guidance notes though further efforts remain essential.
As part of the Transport, Industrial and Commercial Net Zero Refrigeration Project (TICR) fifty site surveys were recently completed. Whilst end-users have responsibilities for their sites’ Net Zero goals, the surveys identified that they are reliant on the skills of the refrigeration industry and that there are some problems with this.
In some cases new refrigeration systems containing F gases were still being installed even where more energy efficient natural refrigerant alternatives are available.
Installing new systems with F-gas is short sighted as carbon emissions emitted in years to come will be mainly from refrigerant leakage from these kinds of systems if they are not properly maintained.
Many of the recently installed refrigeration systems were found to be using 20% more energy than the best in class. These new inefficient systems range from the very small to the multi-million-pound.
Whilst technologies like electronically controlled (EC) fans on evaporators are common, they were typically found to be running at a fixed speed making no benefit of having reduced fan power by reducing fan speed on low load conditions.
So the project is identifying a lot of missed opportunities to improve efficiency. It is often not a matter of using the latest technologies but selecting the equipment that will result in an efficient system design. Upskilling of designers has a critical role to play to ensure refrigeration systems are designed for efficiency utilising the benefits of existing and new technologies.
It was concerning that not all sites looked at had F Gas logs available to review. End-users often had not proactively worked with their refrigeration service providers to maintain their refrigeration equipment for efficiency. The issue of dirty condensers/ gas coolers resulting in higher discharge pressures was prevalent. Some of the refrigeration systems were operating significantly out of their optimised conditions on many sites. In conclusion, the need to work towards net zero is going to become an ever more important factor in the operation of refrigeration equipment but we are still a long way off where we need to be.
But end-user expectations are changing and refrigeration service providers are going to have to be able to demonstrate they have the necessary skilled work force to help achieve energy reductions to remain competitive or risk being replaced by competitors prepared to invest in their future workforce.
Update on F-Gas
Kelvin Kelly FInstR anticipates the new GB F-Gas regulations, which are still pending.
Within mainland Europe F Gas 3.0, as it is being commonly called, came into force on 7th February 2024. Further to this, Implementing Regulation 2024/2215 was published on 6 th September 2024. This describes the necessary changes to the minimum skills and knowledge criteria required for technicians working on refrigeration, air conditioning and heat pump systems. As we have left the European Union, EU Regulation 2024/1937 does not apply in the UK. The government are, at present, drafting the GB Regulations for potential implementation early 2026. As the existing 4 levels of
qualification, as specified in EU F Gas 2.0, seem to have worked, it might be fair to assume that our regulations will reflect the European ones. The main changes between F Gas 2.0 and 3.0 is the inclusion of flammable refrigerants with the practical and theoretical criteria plus two additional levels of certification:
• B Installation and good practice servicing for equipment and systems relying on R744 (CO 2 )
• C Installation and good practice of servicing for equipment and systems relying on R717 (NH 3 )
The various groups within the Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Industry Board (ACRIB) are in discussion with their members as to whether they feel this should be the way to progress within the UK. Another point for discussion is whether or not existing qualifications such as
the ACRIB specification for Understanding the properties of Flammable Refrigerants, City and Guilds and LCL Awards qualifications on the safe handling of CO 2 and City and Guilds qualification for the safe handling of ammonia, meet the requirements described in the EU implementing act or will require updating and modification.
If you wish to comment about the upcoming potential changes or have a suggestion on how the F Gas assessment process can be improved, this is the ideal opportunity to do so.
The more information from a diverse range of individuals and organisations involved in our industry, the better placed we are to present those views to Government.
See www.acrib.org.uk
What is the role of ACRIB?
Neil Roberts MInstR shares what you should know about ACRIB and how it benefits IOR members.
Refrigerants in the spotlight
As part of its events programme, the IOR will be hosting a Cool Talk on Refrigerants and Heat Pumps. This FREE talk will focus on:
- Refrigerants and the correct lubricant choices
- What you need to know about R290 heat pumps
The talk will be held online on 3 June, register at www.ior.org.uk/events/cooltalks-june25
The Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Industry Board (ACRIB) is an umbrella organisation where trade associations and other industry organisations work collaboratively to ensure the interests of the whole Refrigeration, Air Conditioning and Heat Pump (RACHP) industry are safeguarded and continuing to advance. Representatives from ARC, BESA, CIBSE, Cold Chain Federation, CRT, FEA, FETA and the IOR meet to address issues around the environment and energy, education and training and technical safety and standards. ACRIB works closely with employers and government departments, as well as City & Guilds on qualification development, and is responsible for operating a widely recognised safe refrigerant handling certification scheme as part of the Engineering Services SKILLCard scheme.
Training is currently a particularly hot topic in the industry both in terms of attracting new students into the industry, but also recognising the increasing use of refrigerants that have either a degree of flammability, very high pressure or high toxicity, it is critical that refrigeration technicians have the knowledge and skills to handle these safely. The recent update to the EU F-Gas legislation stipulates that training and certification is required for non-F-Gas refrigerants as well as F-Gases, a measure which is broadly supported by the industry. With the impending update of the F-Gas regulation in Great Britain, ACRIB is lobbying government to follow the EU lead on training and reviewing the current training guidance to ensure it continues to be fit for purpose.
Over the coming years the RACHP industry will be facing many challenges, and the work of industry organisations will become even more important to represent the best interests for everyone involved. ACRIB is a key part of that process to ensure the whole industry is co-ordinated to achieve the best positive result for the future. If you are not already involved but feel you are able to contribute to these efforts, then get in contact through the IOR or any of the other trade associations listed.
The international community are keen to support this new conference taking place in Manchester this year.
80 abstracts have been received for the inaugural IIR International Conference on Refrigeration Adapting to Rising Temperatures that will be held in person from 10 to 13 August 2025 in Manchester UK.
As global temperatures continue to rise, the RACHP sector is confronted with
Adaptation
2025 UK Conference
increasing challenges.
This conference aims to address these issues with dialogue and innovation among professionals developing sustainable, climate-resilient solutions. Everyone taking part in the
Net Zero Refrigeration Reports
The Transport Industrial Commercial Refrigeration (TICR) project will be holding a workshop in March where you can see previews of reports and the key findings that include roadmaps, emissions reports, guidance for industry benchmarking tools and much more.
event will hear case studies, innovations, research and expert insights on topics at the intersection of refrigeration technology and climate change adaptation. The conference’s themes are:
• Managing Risks
• Environmental and Social Governance
• The Future Landscape of RACHP
The full programme and keynote speakers will be announced shortly. Make sure you keep up to date by signing up to the mailing list here
Further details will be published shortly and registration for this free event will open in February. See https://netzerorefrigeration.uk for more details.
IOR Supports Key Industry Shows
The IOR is pleased to announce its participation in the InstallerSHOW in Birmingham in June and elementalLONDON at London’s ExCel in November.
At both events, the IOR will host an informative technical programme featuring updates on key
issues relevant to the RACHP industry based on the masterclasses.
Further details are on the website and for more information on the shows, visit www.installershow.com and www.elementallondon.show
Join the 125th celebrations at the IOR Annual Dinner
The 125th IOR Annual Dinner will take place on 27 February 2025 at the London Hilton Bankside, a brand new venue ideally located near the Tate Modern.
Members and guests will celebrate their industry and support the Institute of Refrigeration’s efforts in education and the promotion of industry standards. Reconnect with old friends, engage with customers, and meet new contacts, while enjoying a guest speaker. Sponsorship packages are available.
In 2025, the ‘Original Fridge Dinner’ will be held at a new venue, bringing a fresh twist to a long-standing tradition.
Find out more and book your place on the IOR website
Membership News & Welcome
A Patron of the IOR ?
The IOR is planning to invite a notable person from outside our sector to be recognised as a patron of the IOR.
The Patron will bring their extensive contacts and relevant knowledge to the IOR and will be invited as our guest at key events. Committees are currently discussing who should be considered for this prestigious role.
We welcome your views at ior@ior.org.uk
Welcome to New:
Technicians
Saleh Ab-Bariki
Adam Doe
Associates
James Drabble
Marin Markov
Zakk Treacy
Pre Associates
Reiss Armstrong
William Martin
Affiliates
Ashley Beatens
Daren Bezants
Welcome to New Members
Scott Davies
Tom Luff
Mathew McDonnell
Akeem Waheed
Richard Darlison
Stewart Betteridge
Salah Zantout
John Hammond
Matthew Day
Robert Pateman
Matthew Gill
John Horn
Michael Thurlow
Ben Carter
Benjamin Bayliss
Robert Williamson
Adam Swain
William Morham
Andrew McPhun
Anton Jungblut
Andy Yearley
Obituary - John Buswell AMInstR
Born in 1948 John served his apprenticeship straight from college qualifying in 1968 and worked actively as a Refrigeration & Air Conditioning Engineer up until his passing at the age of 75 years - over 56 years of dedicated service. He was an Associate Member of the IOR for 44 years and actively sought to further his professional development obtaining his FGAS certification in 2011. John’s occupation, hobby, interest and motivation was being a Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Engineer. He mentored countless apprentices throughout his career. John’s legacy is undoubtedly the immeasurable commitment and contribution to design, installation, commissioning, decommissioning, repair, maintenance and servicing of refrigeration, air conditioning, and heat pumps. John’s family are comforted that his skills, knowledge and passion for engineering live on in all those he employed, trained, and mentored in over 5 decades.
Celebrate the 125th Anniversary of Your Institute
Did you receive the sticker with your events card this month? The IOR is turning 125 this year! Join in the celebrations and display your sticker. An electronic version to use on emails and websites can be downloaded here
IOR Committee and Branch Chairs
Lisa-Jayne Cook FInstR, Board
David Paget FInstR, Technical Committee
John Skelton FInstR, Finance Committee
Chris Griffiths MInstR, Environment Committee
Dermot Cotter FInstR, Papers Committee
Andy Pearson FInstR, International Committee
Kevin Glass FInstR, Ethics and Conduct Committee
John Skelton FInstR, Education Committee
Damian Wiszniewski FInstR, Membership Committee
Bob Wright AMInstR, IOR RACHP EngTech
Sam Buckell and Astrid Prado MInstR, Women in RACHP
John R Emm FInstR, Hampshire Refrigeration Society
Danny Watson MInstR, IOR Scotland
Damian Wiszniewski FInstR, South West and South Wales
Refrigeration Society
Matt Morton FInstR, Northern Branch
IOR Board of Trustees
Lisa-Jayne Cook FInstR, President
John Skelton FInstR, Hon Treasurer
Dermot Cotter FInstR
Craig Girdlestone FInstR
Chris Griffiths MInstR
Julie Murray MInstR
Paul Singh FInstR
Damian Wiszniewski FInstR