Refrigeration
A Refrigeration Plant means a pressure plant in which refrigerants are vaporized compressed, and liquefied in their refrigerating cycle, and includes the complete installation of machinery in connection with it.
Refrigeration plants require new installation inspections, periodic graded regular inspections, and valid inspection certificates in order to operate. Any exclusions and fees are as outlined in the Steam and Pressure Plants Act and regulation. Available on the Legislation and Regulations page
A refrigerant is a fluid used for heat transfer (absorbing heat and transferring it) in a refrigeration system. There are many different refrigerants and they are classified into safety groups based on flammability and toxicity.
When the quantity of refrigerant exceeds a specified limit, then the refrigeration system must be permanently installed and operated in a room designated as a machinery room. When the quantity of refrigerant exceeds an additional specified limit or is considered a more hazardous refrigerant, then the machinery room is subject to specific restrictions and requirements, and needs to be a Class T machinery room.
Ammonia Refrigeration
While ammonia as a refrigerant has many benefits, users must be aware of the hazards of an accidental leak and practice ammonia refrigeration system safety. Accidental Ammonia leaks, from any pressurized system, have the potential to cause injury or even death to any person in the immediate vicinity and surrounding area. The owner is responsible for the proper care and safe operation of a mechanical refrigeration plant, examples could be in an ice arena or a curling rink.
It is critical that an Ammonia leak is detected as soon as possible and that corrective action is taken immediately. Safe operating procedures, inspection, maintenance, and monitoring are all important aspects of prevention.
One way to reduce the risk of an ammonia leak is by monitoring for leakage through the analysis of the secondary coolant (often brine) for signs of ammonia. This analysis should be carried out by a responsible person who has the necessary skills and knowledge.
Related documents as adopted by the Steam and Pressure Plants Regulation:
- CSA B52 - Mechanical Refrigeration Code
- ASME B31.5 - Refrigeration Piping and Heat Transfer Components
Other useful documents for reference only:
- ABSA AB-615 Guidelines for Care and Operation of Mechanical Refrigeration Systems Containing Ammonia - https://www.absa.ca/media/1189/ab-615-guidelines-for-care-operation-of-mech-refrig-sys-with-nh3.pdf
- TSASK Information Paper IP-BPV-2021-08-02 Guidelines for Care and Operation of Mechanical Refrigeration Systems Containing Ammonia - https://www.tsask.ca/public/images/IP-BPV-2021-08-02_Guidelines_For_Care_And_Operation_Of_Mechanical_Refrigeration_Systems_Containing_Ammonia.pdf
- Technical Safety BC Fernie Investigation Report, Findings and Recommendations - https://www.technicalsafetybc.ca/state-safety/fernie-investigation-report-findings-and-recommendations
- ASHRAE Standard 15 Safety Standard for Refrigeration Systems and Standard 34 - Designation and Safety Classification of Refrigerants - https://www.ashrae.org/technical-resources/bookstore/standards-15-34
