Installation Identification Signs

Code requirements for installation identification signs vary based on when an ammonia refrigeration system was built. Most existing installation identification signs were installed in accordance with the Mechanical or Fire Codes (UMC, CMC, and UFC), ASHRAE 15, or IIAR 2 OR 9. Here is a historical snapshot of code requirements for installation identification signs throughout the years.

California Mechanical Code 1998-2016 CMC (§1115.3 for 2016 Version) 

Permanent Sign. In a refrigeration machinery room and for a direct refrigerating system of more than 10 horsepower (7.5 kW), there shall be a permanent sign at an approved location giving the following information:

(1) Name of contractor installing the equipment.

(2) Name and number designation of refrigerant in system.

(3) Pounds of refrigerant in system.

Uniform Mechanical Code 1973-2015 CMC (§1115.3 for 2015 Version) 

Permanent Sign. In a refrigeration machinery room and for a direct refrigerating system of more than 10 horsepower (7.5 kW), there shall be a permanent sign at an approved location giving the following information:

(1) Name of contractor installing the equipment.

(2) Name and number designation of refrigerant in system.

(3) Pounds of refrigerant in system.

Uniform Fire Code 2015-2018 NFPA 1 (§53.2.4.1) 

Refrigeration units or systems shall be provided with approved hazard identification signs in accordance with NFPA 704, emergency operational signs, charts, and labels in accordance with the mechanical code, and the following:

(1) Name and address of the manufacturer or installer

(2) Type and total number of pounds of refrigerant contained in the system

(3) Field test pressure applied

ANSI/ASHRAE 15 2007-2016 (§11.2.1) 

Each refrigerating system erected on the premises shall be provided with a legible permanent sign, securely attached and easily accessible, indicating

1. the name and address of the installer,
2. the refrigerant number and amount of refrigerant,
3. the lubricant identity and amount, and
4. the field test pressure applied.

ANSI/IIAR 2-2014 and 2014 Addendum A (§5.15) 

It shall be the duty of the person in charge of the premises at which the refrigeration system is installed to provide directions for the emergency shutdown of the system at a location that is readily accessible to trained refrigeration system staff and trained emergency responders. Schematic drawings or signage shall include the following:

1. Instructions with details and steps for shutting down the system in an emergency;
2. The name and telephone numbers of the refrigeration operating, maintenance, and management staff; emergency responders; and safety personnel;
3. The names and telephone numbers of all corporate, local, state, and federal agencies to be contacted as required in the event of a reportable incident;
4. Quantity of ammonia in the system;
5. Type and quantity of refrigerant oil in the system; and
6. Field test pressures applied.

New System or Unknown Codes/Standards

The current applicable RAGAGEP for new ammonia refrigeration systems is ANSI/IIAR 2-2021. In regards to installation identification signs, the standard requires the following:

ANSI/IIAR 2-2021 §5.14.1.1

Signage or schematic drawings for each system containing more than 22 lbs. of ammonia shall be posted at a location that is readily accessible to trained refrigeration staff and trained emergency responders. Schematic drawings or signage shall include the following information:

1. Instructions with details and steps for shutting down the system in an emergency;
2. The contact information for whom to contact in an emergency;
3. Maximum intended inventory of ammonia in the system;
4. Type of refrigerant compressor oil(s);
5. Low-side and high-side design pressures.

If the original codes and standards of a system are unknown, then the applicable standard for an ammonia refrigeration system is ANSI/IIAR 9-2020.

ANSI/IIAR 9-2020 §7.2.10

It shall be the duty of the person in charge of the premises at which the refrigeration system is installed to provide directions for the emergency shutdown of the system at a location that is readily accessible to trained refrigeration system staff and trained emergency responders. Documentation shall include the following

7.2.10.1 Instructions with details and steps for shutting down the system in an emergency

7.2.10.2 The name and telephone numbers of the refrigeration operating and maintenance staff.

7.2.10.3 The names and telephone numbers of all local, state, and federal agencies to be contacted as required in the event of a reportable incident.

7.2.10.4 *Quantity of ammonia in the system

7.2.10.5 Signage shall include emergency facility contact title and phone number to call in the event of an alarm or ammonia release