Recent Blog Posts

California Refrigerant Management Program and EPA 608 Certification

August 23rd, 2016

Historically, most facilities that utilize halocarbon (Freon) refrigeration systems have avoided the burdensome Risk and Process Safety Management requirements that their ammonia refrigeration counterparts have been required to comply with since the early 1990s. But as of 2012, the tide has changed for halocarbon refrigeration systems in California. In the remainder of this blog, we […]

Keys to a Successful PSM Inspection

July 26th, 2016

A PSM inspection[1] is about as appealing as a colonoscopy; at least that’s what I’ve ascertained from the numerous clients who have called me, frantic for help and counsel. For those who have been around the PSM/RMP world for any amount of time, we all recognize the stakes are high and the fines can be […]

Ammonia Refrigeration Machinery Room Classification

July 12th, 2016

I was recently asked to consult regarding the several Fire and Building Code issues related to Occupancy Classification for an ammonia refrigeration machinery room. Local authorities were under the impression that the machinery room should be classified as a High-Hazard Group H location, but upon further research into the building and mechanical codes, here is […]

Pipe Labeling – ASME A13.1 Update

June 28th, 2016

ASME A13.1 Scheme for the Identification of Piping Systems provides minimum requirements for the identification of hazardous materials conveyed in piping systems. The document applies to general industry and does not address specific chemical (ammonia, chlorine, etc.) labeling requirements. Basic requirements contained within ASME A13.1 include: Pipe labels must include arrows to indicate flow direction (§3.1) […]

History of Refrigeration

June 14th, 2016

Refrigeration, as a tool, has been used for thousands of years. Early civilizations noticed that cold food remained fresh longer, and would use running water to lower its temperature. The Roman and Greek cultures dug snow pits that were insulated with grass or leaves to cool their beverages. Home refrigeration was attempted by hanging wet […]