Navigating A2L Refrigerant Storage Regulations in Canada
As the HVACR industry transitions to more environmentally friendly refrigerants, A2L refrigerants have emerged as a great solution. These low-flammability refrigerants offer benefits like reduced environmental impact. However, their storage presents unique challenges, especially within the framework of Canadian safety regulations. This article unpacks key considerations for A2L refrigerant storage in Canada, highlighting safety standards, compliance pathways, and industry best practices.
What Are A2L Refrigerants?
A2L refrigerants are classified as mildly flammable gases with low toxicity. They represent a middle ground between non-flammable A1 refrigerants and highly flammable A3 alternatives. While their low flammability mitigates some risks, their handling and storage still require adherence to stringent safety protocols.
Understanding NFPA 55:2023 and Its Implications for Cylinder Storage of A2Ls
NFPA 55: Compressed Gases and Cryogenic Fluids Code is identified as code that can be followed as part of good engineering practices for storage safety. The 2023 edition of NFPA 55: Compressed Gases and Cryogenic Fluids Code introduces significant updates, particularly the inclusion of a low-flammability low burn velocity classification, which is applicable to A2L refrigerants. This classification brings potential advantages for industries dealing with flammable compressed gases, as it allows for higher Maximum Allowable Quantities (MAQs) for A2L refrigerants compared to highly flammable gases. Here’s a closer look at what this means and the considerations for implementation.
Key Highlights of NFPA 55:2023
- Low-Flammability Classification:
- The latest edition incorporates a new low-flammability classification that can be used for A2Ls.
- A2L refrigerants, characterized by low flammability, benefit from more lenient MAQ limits compared to highly flammable compressed gases.
- Industry Relevance:
- Referenced as a best practice in provincial and national fire codes, NFPA 55 serves as a comprehensive guide for the safe storage and handling of compressed gases and cryogenic fluids.
Maximizing A2L Refrigerant Storage: Understanding Control Areas and Safety Measures
The storage capacity for A2L refrigerants is determined by Maximum Allowable Quantities (MAQs), which vary depending on the building’s type of occupancy and the number of control areas permitted under NFPA 55 guidelines. The revised 2023 standard provides information for safely maximizing A2L storage while maintaining compliance.
The Role of Control Areas in Storage
Each building can incorporate up to four control areas depending on what level the control is at. If the facility has a sprinkler system designed and installed as per NFPA 13 requirements then the MAQ for storage can go up by 100%. This arrangement provides businesses with flexibility to significantly expand their storage capacity.
For instance, in buildings such as a warehouse equipped with fire sprinklers, control areas are separated by 1-hour fire-resistance-rated walls. These barriers are essential for preventing the spread of fire and ensuring compliance with safety regulations, with each area capable of holding up to 40,000 pounds of liquefied A2L refrigerants. When properly implemented, a single warehouse can store up to 160,000 pounds of A2L refrigerants across four control areas. The number of control areas and MAQ depends on the level of the facility and the occupancy classification.
How Does This Impact Compliance in Canada?
It’s important to note that Canada’s National Fire Code currently references the 2020 edition of NFPA 55. This discrepancy means that the 2023 updates are not yet officially recognized in Canadian regulations.
However, the language in the National Fire Code is permissive rather than prescriptive. This gives the user to adhere to requirements of the newer version of the standard which in this case would be the 2023 edition of the NFPA 55 even though it not referenced in the National Fire Code.
That being said, Municipal fire authorities do have the final say in what is acceptable and what is not. So, the recommended practice will always be to get storage requirements from your local fire authority as these rules could be different between municipalities.
Consultation with Fire Authorities
Discussions with fire code consultants indicate that, despite the lack of explicit referencing in current fire codes, the 2023 edition of NFPA 55 may still be utilized under specific circumstances. Here are the recommended steps:
- Verify Local Regulations: Always consult with local fire authorities to confirm whether the 2023 edition of NFPA 55 can be applied in your jurisdiction.
- Clarify Permissive vs. Prescriptive Approaches: Some fire codes allow for the use of newer standards as a permissive alternative to those explicitly referenced, enabling flexibility in compliance.
The Road Ahead for A2L Storage in Canada
The introduction of A2L refrigerants signals a shift toward sustainable practices in the HVACR industry. However, aligning Canadian fire codes with the latest NFPA 55 standards will require time and collaboration between industry stakeholders and regulatory bodies. In the meantime, businesses can proactively engage with local authorities to explore the permissive use of the 2023 edition. By staying informed and proactive, industries can effectively navigate this transition and take advantage of the updated guidelines
Visit https://www.hrai.ca/refrigerant-transition for information regarding the refrigerant transition in Canada
For more information contact gshine@hrai.ca
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