R22 refrigerant gas is one of the concerns when it comes to harming the environment.

The UK and many other countries around the world have joined together in an effort to convert usage of R22 refrigerant in commercial facilities to more environmentally friendly alternatives.

Among the refrigerants approved by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for use in commercial facilities are R404A & R410A

In addition to being more energy efficient, none of them will deplete the ozone layer like hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs). 

Used extensively throughout the world, R22 refrigerant is vital to the operation of older Refrigeration & Air-Conditioning systems installed in the majority of Commercial and Business facilities.

It can also be found in process chillers and Industrial refrigerant plants.

The widespread use of the chemical is a paramount concern because when a leak occurs hydrochlorofluorocarbons are released.

They are deemed harmful because they damage the ozone layer and contribute to global warming.

It is a monumental task for facilities to replace R22 refrigerant. For many, it means changing existing cooling systems or installing new equipment, all with minimal interruption to business.

During this process, special care needs to be given to the chemical's safe removal and proper discarding to comply with the EU regulations.

From 1 Jan 2010 it has been illegal to use virgin hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) such as R-22 (which has been the most commonly used refrigerant) when servicing and maintaining Refrigeration & Air Conditioning equipment.

Until the 31 December 2014 temporary use of recycled/recovered R-22 is possible but availability could be limited and costs high.

From 1 January 2015 sales or use of recycled/recovered R-22 will be prohibited.

The regulation also calls for all operators of HCFC refrigeration systems to take "all precautionary measures practicable" to prevent and minimise leakage. It states that all fixed equipment systems with a refrigerant charge greater than 3kg will require an annual check for leakage.

This must be undertaken by qualified personnel and they will be required to properly recover any HCFC refrigerant removed from a system.