Transportation of A2Ls

The HVAC world is evolving fast, and refrigerants with low global warming potential (GWP), like A2Ls, are here to stay. With these changes, you'll need to stay on top of new safety regulations when transporting these mildly flammable gases. Let's break it down, so you're informed and compliant without the headache.

Key Regulations

1. A2L Refrigerants: They are classified as Dangerous Goods

A2L refrigerants like R-32 and R454b fall under Class 2.1 (Flammable Gases) according to the Transportation of Dangerous Goods Regulations (TDGR). So, while transporting these gases, you're technically handling dangerous goods, and you need to follow specific rules as per the TDGR to keep things safe and legal.

2. 500 kg Gross Mass Exemption

Part 1.15 of the TDGR, 150 kg Gross Mass Exemption, is not available to HVACR contractors and wholesalers.  HVACR contractors and wholesalers must operate under the provisions of Part 1.16 of the TDGR known as the 500 kg Gross Mass Exemption. The exemption allows you to carry up to 500 kg of gross mass but your driver would need training and you must follow the reporting requirements of the TDGR. That means making sure you’re certified to handle dangerous goods and are ready to report any issues that arise during transport. You need to comply with Part 6 (Training) and Part 8 (Reporting Requirements) of the TDGR. Please check the Transport Canada website for more information.

Safety Essentials: What You Need in Your Vehicle

A short summary of code requirements, manufacturer recommendations, and industry best practices for transporting A2L refrigerants are listed below, and it is always best to follow them:

Proper Containment: A2L Cylinders must be stored upright and securely fastened.

Fire Extinguishers: Your vehicle must have a 10B-C rated fire extinguisher onboard and ready.

Vented Cargo Space: Make sure your vehicle’s cargo area is vented to prevent gas buildup.

No Smoking in the Vehicle: This one is self-explanatory, but it’s worth repeating.

New Requirement Alert: Register with Client Identification Database

Contractors or wholesalers operating under the 500 kg Gross Mass Exemption will need to register with Transport Canada’s Client Identification Database. This new requirement helps ensure everyone is properly accounted for and following regulations. Some contractors and wholesalers, depending on your dangerous goods activities, may be required to register the sites where flammable dangerous goods are stored, with Transport Canada. Click here to check if you need to register.

Fully Regulated Loads: Know the Difference

If you’re transporting at least one squat cylinder (55.8L) or any cylinder containing more that 46L of Class 2.1 flammable gas including recovery cylinders in your vehicle, your load   becomes fully regulated even if your load falls under the 500kg Gross Mass Exemption. This means you’ll need:

  • Placards on your vehicle
  • Shipping documents
  • Certified training
  • Proper containment measures to prevent any accidents
  • Training & Reporting: Stay Compliant

Fully regulated loads are to comply with Part 3,4,5,6 and 8 of the TDGR. Please refer to the regulation for more information. When handling A2L refrigerants, make sure you’re trained and have a valid TDGR certificate. To find a training provider click here. If there’s an incident, such as a leak or loss of refrigerant, it must be reported to local authorities and Transport Canada.

Stay Safe and Compliant

It’s crucial to stay up to date with these regulations to keep yourself, your team, and your vehicles safe. Regularly check your vehicle setup, maintain your training certifications, and always follow the latest rules for transporting dangerous goods as per Transport Canada Requirements.

For more information, visit the Transport Canada website and contact Gautham Shine, Technical Advisor at gshine@hrai.ca if you have any questions.

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