The main differences between the requirements of the old to new qualifications are: 

 1. Increased knowledge of vapour compression theory, the nature   and function of all major components and some ancillary components. 

 2.  Knowledge and skill to use and interpret pressure-enthalpy charts (Mollier diagrams). 

 3.  Make a brazed joint, insert it into refrigeration system, pressure test it, then remove it, dissect and inspect. 

 4. Install, adjust (where necessary or possible) and maintain a major component e.g. compressor, condenser, metering device or evaporator. 

 5.  Knowledge of S I units e.g. pressure, density, mass, temperature etc. 

 6. Remove HFC contaminated oil. 

 7. Manipulate front and back seating service valves. 

 8. Testing & evaluating system performance to determine if system is leaking (indirect methods as defined in new regulations).

None of the above tasks were required in the old assessment or written paper.

Additionally, of course, all skills and knowledge required to pass the old qualification (which is still legally valid whilst in date to July 2011) are still required.  These are: 

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT 

•       Fluorocarbons
•       Ultra violet radiation & the Ozone Layer
•       The effect of CFC & HCFCs on the ozone layer
•       Climate change & the effect of all Fluorocarbons 

FLUOROCARBON CONTROL & ALTERNATIVES 

•       Montreal Protocol
•       Kyoto Protocol
•       European Union Regulations
•       Replacement Refrigerants, HFCs and blends and others 

LEGISLATION, REGULATIONS & STANDARDS 

•       The U.K. Environmental Protection Act 1990
•       Hazardous Waste Regulations 2005
•       EC Regulation 2037/2000
•       EC Regulation 842/2006 – The ‘F Gas Regulations’
•       BS EN 378-2008 

REFRIGERANT RECOVERY & HANDLING 

•       Definitions & options for re-use
•       Refrigerant recovery
•       Safe decanting 

REFRIGERATION THEORY 

      Vapour compression refrigeration theory 

PRACTICAL ASSESSMENT 

• Correct selection & use of PPE
• Pressure testing & leak testing (direct methods as defined in new regulations)
• Evacuation, dehydration & measurement of vacuum
• Refrigerant charging
• Testing & evaluating system performance to determine if system charge is correct
• Cylinder safety, calculation of contents & fill capacity &
• Documentation
• Refrigerant recovery & decanting