What to expect from an EPA inspection – a guide for contractors
This short guide provides a brief summary of what to expect if your business/premises is selected for an Inspection by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) under the Ozone Depleting Substances (ODS) and Fluorinated Greenhouse Gas (F-Gas) Regulations.
What are the EPA inspecting?
- F-gases and ODS gases are widely used in equipment and systems which are common in most premises/businesses. These include refrigeration, air conditioning equipment, fire suppression systems and refrigerated trucks & trailers.
- The aim of the inspection is to determine whether your company is compliant with the laws controlling the management of F-gases and ODS gases in these applications. These laws come from Europe and control the gases because they have a negative effect on the environment if they are emitted. These European laws apply directly in Ireland and the EPA is responsible for enforcing them, under specific Irish law. The laws place restrictions, controls and obligations on contractors involved in the installation, servicing and maintenance of ODS/F-Gas systems.
Why are the EPA carrying out the Inspection?
- The EPA is responsible for enforcing the laws controlling these gases. One of the enforcement powers designated to the EPA under the Irish Legislation is the power to inspect any company involved in handling ODS / F-gases.
These inspections can be carried out without prior notice under EPA’s powers. However, in many cases, inspections will be pre-notified by the EPA. - The EPA also has the power to take prosecutions where it sees fit.
Here You can to download a guide