On August 14, 2018, the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued G/TBT/N/USA/1325/Add.3 to amend the conditions of use of the three flammable refrigerants used in new home refrigerators, freezers and combination refrigerators, namely Isobutane (R-600a), Propane (R-290) and R-441A. The EPA intends to inform consumers and technicians of potential flammability hazards by providing references, marking refrigerant capacity limits and usage requirements on refrigeration equipment, and minimizing flammability risks. The final rule will take effect on September 7, 2018. The revised conditions of use apply to domestic refrigerators and freezers manufactured after the entry into force of this rule.

 New conditions of use

 1. New equipment only and cannot be used as a retrofit alternative: i.e., the three refrigerants, isobutane, propane and R-441A, can only be used for new equipment that is specifically designed and clearly identified for refrigerants, and cannot be used as a conversion or “retrofit” refrigerant for existing equipment designed for different refrigerants. 

 2. The objects used meet US Underwriters Laboratories (UL) standards: these refrigerants can only be used to meet the requirements of UL 60335-2-24 “Safety of Household and Similar Electrical Appliances - Part 2: Special Requirements for Refrigeration Equipment, Ice Cream Equipment and Ice Machines (2017)”.

 3. In addition, the manufacturing process must comply with US Federal Regulations 29 CFR 1910 Occupational Safety and Health Standards, including 29 CFR 1910.106 (flammable liquids), 1910.110 (Liquid Storage and Handling of Liquefied Petroleum Gas), 1910.157 (Portable Fire Extinguisher) And 1910.1000 (toxic and hazardous substances) requirements. Proper ventilation should always be maintained during the manufacture and storage of equipment containing hydrocarbon refrigerants by adhering to good manufacturing practices. If the level of refrigerant in the air surrounding the equipment exceeds a quarter of the lower limit of flammability, evacuate the site immediately and re-enter only if adequately ventilated. Technicians and equipment manufacturers should wear appropriate personal protective equipment, including chemical goggles and protective gloves, when handling these refrigerants. Care should be taken to avoid contact with the skin as these refrigerants can cause frostbite to the skin like many refrigerants. Class B dry powder fire extinguishers should be placed nearby. Workers should use fire protection tools when working in refrigerators and freezers that use these three refrigerants. Any recycling equipment used should be designed for use with flammable refrigerants. The refrigerant should be handled in a well ventilated area, such as outside the building.