Entrepreneurship is an extremely common career path for anyone who has just graduated from an automotive training program. There are so many benefits to running your own business, including more control over hours of operation, equipment used, and your work environment.
However, with that freedom comes extra responsibility and as climate change concerns continue to escalate on a global scale, federal regulations are cracking down on business owners to decrease pollution.
For the sake of the environment and the well-being of your future business, it’s in your best interest to get to grips with all the creative ways you can strive for more eco-friendly equipment. If you see yourself starting your own automotive business in the future, you probably have some questions.
Keep reading if you want to know how the government’s new regulations will affect automotive businesses and how to comply with these new standards.
What New Regulations Can You Expect?
Hydrochlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) are man-made ozone-depleting gasses that are often used for air conditioning, refrigeration, the cleaning of electronics, and as solvents. Because of the negative effects–they have been shown to exacerbate global warming–the Canadian government has put regulations in place. The Ozone-depleting Substances and Halocarbon Alternatives Regulations (ODSHAR) went into effect in 2016 but just recently, in 2020, the manufacturing of HCFCs and products containing them were banned.
In the automotive industry, many ozone-depleting substances like solvents, cleaners, and chemicals in vehicle air conditioners have been commonplace for so long. If you’re in automotive school it’s a good idea to stay updated on the environmental regulations around auto equipment in Canada. In many cases, extra certification is advised, like the one offered at ATC Surrey.
How Will the New Regulations Affect Those in Auto Careers?
If you’re in auto mechanic school and have a particular interest in servicing vehicle air conditioners, the ODSHAR will affect any business you work for in the future. This is particularly important if you decide to start your own business, as you will need to comply with the ODSHAR regulations by ensuring that none of the products you export, import, manufacture, or sell contain prohibited substances.
The Ozone-depletion prevention program at ATC Surrey is designed for that exact situation and offers valuable knowledge on environmentally correct equipment design, the proper handling of ozone-depleting substances, and environmental awareness.
Handle and Dispose of Chemicals Ethically
Vehicle refrigerant, also known as Freon, is harmful to the environment and to your health if not handled properly. There are refrigerant management solutions available through the Heating Cooling and Air Conditioning Institute of Canada (HCAI), which only accepts refrigerants that don’t contain ozone-depleting HFOs. Taking the Ozone-depletion Prevention program will grant you a certificate from the HCAI which is valid across the entire country. This certification is required to run A/C businesses as it permits you to purchase and handle Freon in an environmentally conscious way.
Interested in auto careers?
Contact ATC for more information!
