MACPARTNERS is “gravely concerned” that DEFRA's decision goes directly against the directive (EU) 517/2014 concerning F-gases. The association is also upset by the decision because it believes that 'undisclosed UK stakeholders' challenged DEFRA on its ability to restrict who can buy F-gas products.
“This action by DEFRA not only allows the sale of so called DIY top ups of R134a to untrained service technicians and even further to the general public via auto spare parts outlets, but it allows untrained individuals to simply add refrigerant to a leaking system without seeking the services of qualified service personnel to properly recover the refrigerant from the vehicle and perform repairs.”
The association is concerned about the consequences upon the environment and the vehicle repair industry that allowing unlicensed individuals to buy F-gases will have. MACPARTNERS says it will be taking up the issue with DEFRA and the European Commission.