Recovering ODS from equipment
How to recover ozone-depleting substances (ODS) from equipment so they can be reclaimed or destroyed.
When equipment containing ODS has reached the end of its life, the ODS must be recovered (taken out). ODS must be recovered from:
- refrigeration, air-conditioning and heat pump (RACHP) equipment
- equipment containing solvents
- fire protection systems
- fire extinguishers
For equipment not listed above, ODS must be recovered if it’s technically feasible and the cost is proportionate.
How to recover ODS
ODS can only be recovered by a technician with qualifications to service equipment containing ODS.
Once recovered, you must use a registered waste carrier to send the recovered ODS (or the whole unit) to a licensed waste facility that accepts waste ODS to either reclaim or destroy it.
You should contact the waste facility to confirm they can accept your waste ODS.
Reclaiming ODS
Reclaiming ODS is the cleaning process by a licensed waste facility into virgin (unused) ODS.
Reclaimed or recycled ODS cannot be used to service RACHP equipment in Great Britain.
ODS can only be recycled (re-used after a basic cleaning process) for critical uses (halons).
Reclaimed ODS can only be used in Great Britain or exported:
- for laboratory and analytical uses
- to be used as feedstock or process agents
- for critical uses (halons)
If you’re exporting reclaimed ODS, you will need to:
- apply for a licence to export ODS
- check that the country you want to export into allows ODS imports
You cannot export reclaimed hydrochlorofluorocarbons for destruction.
You must always label ODS for their intended use.
You can email f-gassupport@environment-agency.gov.uk for advice.