July 28, 2023. ComplyNet is EPA Approved to Certify Technicians Under Section 609 of the Clean Air Act.
The Environmental Protection Agency (“EPA”) protects both the environment and public health. To accomplish its mission, EPA enforces federal laws, like the Clean Air Act. Pay close attention to the Clean Air Act. Violations can reach up to $446K violation and one particular section of the Clean Air Act applies specifically to dealerships and service centers – Section 609.
Section 609 of the Clean Air Act aims to reduce emissions of ozone-depleting substances (ODS) and greenhouse gases from motor vehicle air conditioning (MVAC) systems, which can impact the environment and public health. Section 609 applies to anyone who performs service, repair, or maintenance on MVAC systems for vehicles that use regulated refrigerants, such as hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) or hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs).
There are key compliance requirements for Section 609:
- Technician Certification: Technicians who work on MVAC systems and handle regulated refrigerants must be certified by an EPA-approved certification provider. The EPA-approved certification program ensures that technicians understand the proper handling and recycling of refrigerants to prevent their release into the atmosphere.
- Safe Handling and Recycling: The regulation outlines specific procedures for the proper handling, recovery, and recycling of refrigerants from MVAC systems to minimize their environmental impact. This includes using EPA-approved recovery equipment and ensuring that refrigerants are not vented during servicing.
- Record Keeping: Your dealerships and service centers must keep records of technician certifications, refrigerant purchases, disposals, and other relevant information to demonstrate compliance.
- Sales Restriction: Section 609 also prohibits the sale of regulated refrigerants to uncertified individuals or entities.
