Refrigerants & Environmental Regulations Flashcards

Under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act (CEPA), which federal regulation specifically controls ozone-depleting substances (ODS) in Canada?

Answer: The Ozone-depleting Substances and Halocarbon Alternatives Regulations (ODSHAR)

The Ozone-depleting Substances and Halocarbon Alternatives Regulations (ODSHAR) under CEPA govern the use, import, export, and disposal of ODS and their alternatives in Canada.

What is the ozone depletion potential (ODP) of R-22 (HCFC-22)?

Answer: 0.034

R-22 has an ODP of 0.034 relative to R-11 (ODP=1.0), meaning it depletes the ozone layer but significantly less than the fully halogenated CFCs it replaced.

Under the Montreal Protocol, which class of refrigerants was phased out first due to the highest ozone depletion potential?

Answer: CFCs (chlorofluorocarbons)

CFCs, such as R-11 and R-12, were phased out first under the Montreal Protocol because their high chlorine content and atmospheric stability give them the greatest ozone depletion potential.

What refrigerant has completely replaced R-22 in new Canadian residential air conditioning equipment?

Answer: R-410A

R-410A became the primary replacement for R-22 in new residential and light commercial air conditioning systems in Canada due to its zero ODP, though it has a high GWP and is now being phased down.

What does GWP (Global Warming Potential) measure for refrigerants?

Answer: The relative contribution of the refrigerant to greenhouse warming compared to CO2 over 100 years

GWP is an index that compares a refrigerant's contribution to climate change relative to carbon dioxide (CO2=1) over a 100-year time horizon.

In Canada, who must be certified to purchase and handle refrigerants containing ODS or HFCs above certain thresholds?

Answer: Technicians certified under the Refrigerant Management Canada (RMC) certification program

Canadian regulations require technicians to hold valid refrigerant handling certification (Refrigerant Management Canada or equivalent provincial program) to purchase and work with controlled refrigerants.