Industry plea to engage authorised refrigeration companies in wake of Icepak Coolstore fire

The Refrigeration Air Conditioning Companies Association (RACCA) has made a plea to homeowners and businesses undertaking any refrigeration or airconditioning work to seek the advice of an authorised RACCA company.

The request follows the completion of the court proceedings for the Icepak Coolstores explosion in 2008 which resulted in the death of one Hamilton fireman and seriously injured seven others.

RACCA Chairman Wally McCrory says as an industry body it is working with its members to ensure they are trained and skilled in dealing with all types of refrigeration and air conditioning risks and operational issues. “We are working to introduce a self regulated licensing system that will identify engineers as safe and competent users of refrigerant and refrigeration equipment,” he says.

“We have also been working with other industry bodies to formulate additional industry training and skill development within the wider refrigeration and air conditioning industries.”

RACC asks that all refrigeration and air conditioning works are carried out by an authorised RACCA company. “Or, if you are using a single operator, please ensure that they have the relevant skills and qualifications to complete the work required in a competent and safe manner.

“Something as simple as servicing an air conditioning unit if not done properly can have significant safety risks. And unless those risks are identified, the people occupying that area can suffer serious injury,” he says.

RACCA wishes to pass on its sympathies to all those that have been, and continue to be involved in the Tamahere disaster. “This has been a trying and difficult time during which serious issues of safety and best practice have been raised within our industry.”

ENDS

For further information please contact:

Wally McCrory Ph: 09 262 1405
Chairman
RACCA


Background to RACCA

RACCA is involved in the setting of industry standards; ensuring companies are equipped to train their employees to the highest standards and providing ongoing training for members in new technologies and trends. RACCA can act or appoint arbitrators in areas of dispute relating to technical practice and has a comprehensive Code of Conduct and Code of Practice, to which members must adhere.

For further information about RACCA and a list of our approved members please visit our website www.racca.org.nz or call us on 09 262 1405.