F gases and ozone depleting substances

Fluorinated gases (F gases) are a group of chemicals containing fluorine. F gases are powerful greenhouse gases that trap heat in the atmosphere and contribute to global warming.

Ozone-depleting substances (ODS) are gases which damage the ozone layer in the upper atmosphere. They are being phased out, but can be found in older equipment. There are also a few exceptions for certain uses.

If you manufacture, supply, use, install or service equipment containing F gas or ODS, or if you manufacture or supply F gas, you must comply with legislation which aims to limit such releases.

Under the terms of the Northern Ireland Protocol, EU regulations continue to apply to all businesses in NI who produce, supply, import, export or use F gases or ODS.

This guide explains what F gases and ODS are, what steps are being taken to phase down their use, how to get the right qualifications and certification to work with F gas and ODS legislation in NI, GB and the EU, and information on moving F gas between GB and NI.