To reduce the environmental impact of fluorinated gases—among the main contributors to the greenhouse effect—the European Union has introduced specific rules for their management. These regulations aim to limit emissions throughout the lifecycle of these gases, from production to final disposal.
Companies working with these substances must comply with these obligations. Since 2019, Regulation (EU) No. 517/2014 (which replaced Regulation (EC) No. 842/2006) has set detailed requirements for the handling of fluorinated gases and requires companies to certify both their personnel and operations to ensure compliance with European standards and reduce environmental impact.
RINA offers the FGAS Company Certification service, which is mandatory for all businesses performing installation, maintenance, servicing, repair and dismantling of:
- Fixed refrigeration, air conditioning, and heat pump equipment (Reg. EU 2015/2067).
- Fire protection equipment (Reg. EC No. 304/2008).
This certification service is aimed at all companies in the sector that wish to comply with current regulations, demonstrating professionalism, technical competence, and a commitment to environmental sustainability.
Adapting business practices to fluorinated gas regulations enables companies to achieve:
- Regulatory compliance: fulfillment of European obligations and regulations, avoiding penalties.
- Enhanced corporate image: increased credibility and reputation as a responsible, environmentally conscious company.
- Competitive advantage: differentiation from non-certified competitors.
- Access to opportunities: eligibility for tenders and contracts requiring FGAS certification.
- Risk management: prevention of gas leaks and reduction of operational costs.
- Continuous training: ongoing skill development for greater efficiency.
To obtain the FGAS certification under Regulation (EU) No. 517/2014, companies must:
- Register in the national electronic registry of certified individuals and companies.
- Submit a certification request to RINA.
- Ensure an adequate number of certified personnel.
- Possess equipment, tools, and procedures compliant with regulations.
Once the contract is signed, RINA performs an initial compliance audit. If successful, the certificate is issued and valid for five years.
To maintain certification, companies must undergo annual surveillance audits, consisting of document checks. These audits are reported to the FGAS Registry within 10 days.
The certification must be obtained within 8 months of registration in the FGAS Registry. Failure to comply results in removal from the registry, following notification.
RINA is a certification body recognized by the Ministry of Ecological Transition for issuing FGAS Company Certifications. With extensive experience in the sector, RINA offers a reliable service that meets the highest European standards.
Currently, the obligation for companies working with fluorinated greenhouse gases to be certified is governed by Presidential Decree 146/2018, which implements Regulation (EU) No. 517/2014 and its implementing regulations. Specifically, companies must be certified to perform installation, maintenance, repair, servicing, or dismantling of:
- Fixed refrigeration equipment.
- Air conditioning systems.
- Fixed heat pumps.
- Fire protection equipment containing FGAS.
Pending the adoption of the new Regulation (EU) No. 573/2024, the current regulatory framework remains in force, ensuring control over fluorinated gas emissions in line with EU environmental goals.
No, it is not. In addition to individual licenses, company certification is also mandatory to perform activities involving equipment containing fluorinated gases.
To begin the FGAS certification process, a company must first register in the national electronic registry of certified individuals and companies. Only after registration can it submit a certification request to RINA, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements such as certified personnel and appropriate equipment and procedures.
It is important to note that the certificate must be obtained within 8 months of registration; otherwise, the company may be removed from the registry after notification.
The certificate can be issued to companies employing a sufficient number of certified individuals to perform regulated activities. The number depends on the expected volume of activity, calculated based on specific turnover (excluding purchase, sale, and use of equipment and materials). Generally, one certified person is required for every €200,000 of specific turnover.
.Failure to perform annual audits may result in suspension of the certificate (for up to 6 months) and, if not resolved, revocation of the certificate.