Automotive Refrigerant Handling: Technical Specialist in Automotive Refrigerant Handling Level 3 Award Part-time
Course Overview
Automotive Refrigerant Handling: Technical Specialist in Automotive Refrigerant Handling Level 3 Award Part-time
Enhance your professional standing and secure your licence to operate with the Level 3 Technical Specialist in Automotive Refrigerant Handling (EC842-2006) (Award) from the Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI).
This industry-recognised qualification is a legal requirement for technicians working with automotive air conditioning systems containing fluorinated greenhouse gases, making it essential for anyone committed to building a successful career in the motor industry.
Designed for experienced automotive technicians and Mobile Air Conditioning (MAC) specialists, this course enables you to continue working lawfully while strengthening your technical competence and environmental compliance. With growing emphasis on sustainability and regulatory standards, qualified refrigerant handling specialists are increasingly in demand across the sector.
This focused programme combines vital F-Gas regulatory knowledge with practical, hands-on training in a professional workshop environment. You will develop confidence in safe refrigerant recovery, correct cylinder handling, system connection and disconnection procedures, and the effective operation of recovery equipment. Achievement is assessed through an IMI practical assessment and an online knowledge test.
Delivered in a fully-equipped workshop using industry-standard air conditioning service and recovery units, this qualification ensures you are trained to current industry standards. Whether you are employed in the sector or renewing your certification, this course provides the recognised status, practical expertise, and competitive edge needed to stand out in today’s evolving automotive industry.
The Level 3 Technical Specialist in Automotive Refrigerant Handling (EC842-2006) Award is a single-unit qualification designed to ensure compliance with EU F-Gas regulations for technicians working on motor cars and car-derived vans.
Mandatory unit
AC1: Refrigerant Handling: This mandatory unit covers the essential knowledge and practical competencies required to safely and legally handle fluorinated greenhouse gas refrigerants in automotive air conditioning systems.
Subject areas covered
You will develop your understanding and practical ability in the following areas:
F-Gas Legislation and Environmental Responsibilities: Overview of Commission Regulation EC 842/2006 and associated environmental regulations, including legal obligations for refrigerant recovery and record keeping.
Principles of Automotive Air Conditioning Systems: System components, operation, refrigerant properties, and the environmental impact of fluorinated greenhouse gases.
Safe Refrigerant Handling Procedures: Best practice for refrigerant recovery, recycling and storage in line with current legislation.
Use of Refrigerant Recovery Equipment: Correct operation of approved recovery units and associated service equipment.
Health and Safety Requirements:Safe working practices, personal protective equipment (PPE), and risk awareness in workshop environments.
This qualification is delivered in a workshop-based environment and is suitable for both employment-based and centre-based students. Successful completion confirms legal compliance and professional competence in automotive refrigerant handling.
Located at: Automotive Technology Centre
Course Start: Flexible start dates
Course length: 2 Days
Study Mode: Part-time
Course Code: QMTRARH311
Course Fees and Funding
How much does the course cost?
£600
If the course is listed as 'full fee payable', you will have to pay for the course.
Other funding information
Course Content
Other Resources
For further details, please contact our Information Unit by calling 01226 216 123 or emailing: info@barnsley.ac.uk
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The course information on this page was last updated 19 March 2026.
