Unspecialised operators are appearing on the market offering refrigerants that have not been properly processed in a reclamation installation and therefore cannot be considered reclaimed refrigerants. They do not meet quality standards and may pose a hazard. Their use is prohibited and is subject to criminal liability and administrative financial penalties.

Which refrigerants are prohibited?

Under Regulation 2024/573, which has been in force since 1 January 2025, the servicing of stationary refrigeration equipment with refrigerants having a GWP > 2500 (e.g. R404A, R507A, R422D) is prohibited, with the exception of substances that have been reclaimed in accordance with applicable regulations. However, for a refrigerant to be considered reclaimed, it must: ✅ Have been recovered, ✅ Have undergone a reclamation process at an authorised facility, ✅ Achieve a quality equivalent to that of a virgin refrigerant.

How to identify a legal, reclaimed refrigerant?

A reclaimed refrigerant carries: ✔️ A quality certificate compliant with Regulation 2024/573, containing:

• the name and address of the authorised reclamation facility (must be located in the EU)
• data relating to the refrigerant tested
• the batch number of the reclaimed refrigerant
• a quality specification compliant with the AHRI 700 standard
• a legible signature and stamp

✔️ Container labelling:

• name and address of the authorised reclamation facility
• the statement “100% Reclaimed” in accordance with Regulation 2024/2174
• the refrigerant batch number

✔️ An authorised reclamation facility should hold:

• permits for the processing of hazardous waste (code 140601*)
• appropriate reclamation equipment
• a laboratory equipped with suitable instruments for full refrigerant quality assessment
• qualified personnel

What are the consequences and risks of using illegal refrigerants?

Illegal refrigerants carry not only the risk of criminal liability and administrative financial penalties, but also:

• Potential damage to installations and increased service costs,
• Risks to the health and safety of persons operating the equipment,
• Reduced energy efficiency,
• Negative environmental impact — increased emissions of harmful greenhouse gases.

How to protect yourself?

Before purchasing a refrigerant from a new source: ✅ Check whether the reclamation operator holds the appropriate permits in the BDO register: https://rejestr-bdo.mos.gov.pl/ ✅ Contact the reclamation facility directly to verify the authenticity of the certificate and the refrigerant. Remember that by choosing verified, legal sources you will ensure the safety of your business and employees, and protect our shared environment. If you have any concerns, report your suspicions anonymously at: www.bezpiecznehfc.pl