Every entrepreneur appreciates the importance of computer tech in modern business, not least when it comes to compliance. If your company deals with refrigerants, it is imperative that you pay attention to the pending law changes and the transitions that are set to occur over the coming years. 

Here’s what you need to know about refrigerant and IT compliance heading towards 2022 and beyond.

The Changing Landscape Of Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) 

While the global pandemic essentially slammed the brakes on any transitions taking place throughout 2020, the plans to phase out HFCs will now commence towards the end of 2021. The EPA has set out the road to reducing their presence over the next 15 years, with a target reduction of 85% being set for that period. This forms a significant part of the overall desire to create a better environment for future generations.

Sixteen states also confirmed their own plans back in February 2020. For companies and consumers, the national and regional protocols for eliminating the Global Warming Potential (GWP) cannot be ignored. Companies working with refrigerants must avoid the use of HFCs in a bid to create lower emissions and greener performances. Refrigerators, air conditioners, and other appliances responsible for completing the refrigeration cycle should be included.

Failure to employ efficient management of chronic leakage, refrigerant usage, CO2e, carbon footprint by appliance, and overall CO2e will lead to severe repercussions. Fines can surpass $200,000 for just one week of violations. So, preparing for the Sept. 23, 2021, American Innovation and Manufacturing Leadership (AIM) Act deadline is key. Serial violators could potentially be forced to close their entire business model.

The Role Of New IT Compliance

The EPA has stated that refrigerants like R-410A, R-407C, R-134a, and R-404A will be on the list of ozone-depleting substances (ODSs) for the chop while Ammonia (NH3) and other low-impacting materials will be promoted. However, as well as choosing better materials, manufacturers and companies within the industry will need to master various elements. This is why IT will play a central role in the transition and evolution.

Companies will need to implement facilities that use real-time data to identify gaps with compliance. The automated notifications will enable companies to take quick action and limit the time that they are in violation of the new regulations. Leak detection and fixing is another priority while businesses also need to show a continued commitment to satisfying the expectations to phase out refrigerants.

The development and installation of software and infrastructure will be key for the coming months. Companies will find that a bulk of the IT management aspects will be housed off-site and powered by dedicated facilities. Finding a data center in Idaho can promote a smoother transition and ongoing management process. The smoother running of the data-tracking and refrigerant monitoring will boost the entire venture.

If your company works with appliances that use refrigerants, the pandemic has given you a year to plan for the pending changes, but now is the time to take note. Through a combination of material upgrades and IT compliance, success is assured.