Recent Blog Posts

California ARB Passes Resolution Prohibiting R-404A, R-407C, R-410A, & R-507 by 2022

March 2nd, 2021

In an effort to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, the California Air Resources Board (CARB) unanimously passed a resolution restricting widely used hydrofluorocarbons refrigerants (HFCs).[1] The new laws will change requirements for new and existing cold storages, retail facilities, and air conditioning units. For a detailed review of the amendments, see the December 10, 2020 presentation.  […]

Common PHA Findings (Part 9)

February 16th, 2021

We have chosen to end this blog series by providing examples of findings that are commonly identified during PHAs. Use this information to address any issues prior to your PHA and thus reduce the number of recommendations that are made. Common findings include: Pipe and valves that are susceptible to physical damage from being stepped […]

PHA Documentation (Part 8)

February 2nd, 2021

We all know the mantra “if it wasn’t documented, it didn’t happen.” With this in mind, upon completion of the activity, a report must be prepared to document the PHA study. Inevitably, the PHA report will contain recommendations that must be tracked to completion. Recommendation due dates should be determined by the PHA team and […]

What-If/Checklist Methodology (Part 7)

January 19th, 2021

There are several PHA methodologies listed in the RMP, PSM, and CalARP regulations. The International Institute of Ammonia Refrigeration (IIAR) recommends using the What-If/Checklist methodology for ammonia refrigeration PHAs. The What-If/Checklist methodology is easy to understand since each question begins with the words “What if…” The simplest way to explain how this methodology is implemented […]

Risk Ranking Matrix (Part 6)

January 5th, 2021

In order to objectively rate the risk of each scenario that is considered, most PHAs utilize a risk ranking matrix. The concept of risk is the product of the severity of the event occurring and the likelihood of its occurrence. The matrix that we typically use at Resource Compliance has severity on the vertical axis […]