ARC Update: What the 2025 Code of Practice Means for the Cold Food Chain
The 2025 editions of the Australian and New Zealand Refrigerant Handling Code of Practice introduce important updates that impact the refrigeration and cooling sectors, including the cold food chain.
These revised codes reflect significant advancements in refrigerant technology, safety practices, and environmental standards. Compliance with the updated codes is mandatory for anyone holding a refrigerant handling licence or trading authorisation through the Australian Refrigeration Council (ARC).
The codes provide mandatory requirements, best-practice recommendations, and essential guidance on the proper handling of scheduled refrigerants and any equipment containing them. These updates aim to reduce refrigerant emissions, delivering both environmental benefits and cost savings. The cold food chain, which spans cold storage, transport, and refrigeration systems for perishable goods, is a vital part of the economy. It relies heavily on effective refrigerant management to maintain product quality, prevent food waste, and ensure energy efficiency. The new codes strengthen safety, enhance system efficiency, and optimise refrigerant management, all of which are essential for businesses in the cold food chain sector.
Glenn Evans, ARC’s Chief Executive Officer, highlights the importance of these updates in relation to safety, industry standards, and evolving technology.
"The updated Code of Practice provides clearer guidelines and enhanced safety measures for technicians working with refrigerants in stationary systems," says Glenn.
"This update not only strengthens the competence and safety of our technicians but also aligns with ongoing changes in industry standards, refrigerants, and technology. By setting these clear benchmarks, the Code ensures that our technicians continue to meet the highest standards in the industry."
The updated Codes of Practice are freely available on the ARCTick website (https://arctick.org/refrigerant-handling-licence/codes-of-practice/). ARC strongly encourages all technicians and businesses in the cold food chain to familiarise themselves with these latest standards to ensure compliance, efficiency, and environmental responsibility.
