2025 Code of Practice just released

Codes of Practice: A must-read resource for technicians
New editions of the Australian and New Zealand Refrigerant Handling Codes of Practice are now available.

As New Zealand’s product stewardship scheme, Cool-Safe understands the importance of staying up-to-date with the latest standards and regulations in our industry. That's why we’re excited to announce the release of the 2025 edition of the Australian and New Zealand Refrigerant Handling Codes of Practice.

The updated codes are a vital resource for all air conditioning and refrigeration technicians. Compliance with these codes is mandatory for anyone holding a refrigerant handling licence or refrigerant trading authorisation in New Zealand and Australia.

“We’re proud to be part of an industry that values continuous improvement,” says Megan Dinsdale-Jones, General Manager, Operations at Cool-Safe. “With the support of technical experts and industry leaders, the 2025 edition of the Refrigerant Handling Codes of Practice brings essential updates to reflect the advancements in technology, safety standards, and regulations.”

The last update to the codes was in 2007 and much has changed since then. New refrigerants, enhanced safety protocols, and cutting-edge technology have reshaped the way we work. The updated codes ensure that technicians are fully equipped to handle these changes while maintaining the highest standards of safety and environmental responsibility.

The new codes comprehensively cover every stage of the refrigeration system lifecycle: from design and manufacturing, shipping, installation, and commissioning, to servicing, decommissioning, and refrigerant recovery.

• Part 1 addresses self-contained low charge systems—systems that require no work on the refrigeration circuit during installation and contain less than 2 kg of fluorocarbon refrigerant.

• Part 2 covers all other stationary and transport refrigeration and air conditioning systems, with automotive air conditioning systems being addressed in a separate code prepared by the automotive industry.

 “We highly recommend that every technician—whether new to the industry or seasoned—takes the time to review the latest edition. It’s important to keep up with today’s technologies, codes, and best practices. Not only will this ensure you’re working safely and efficiently, but it will also help protect the environment by minimising refrigerant emissions.” says Australian Refrigeration Council AusRC CEO, Glenn Evans.

At Cool-Safe, we believe that adhering to these codes is key to maintaining the integrity of our work and the health of our planet. Stay informed, stay compliant, and continue to deliver the highest standard of service to your clients.

You can download a free copy of the code here