In BC, Ozone Depleting Substances (ODS) are regulated by a provincial act/regulation and federal code of practice.

The ozone shield screens the earth from some of the sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays – UVB. As that layer is depleted, higher UVB levels are present. Increased exposure to UVB can cause skin cancer and plays a major role in malignant melanoma development.

Ozone Depleting Substances

What are the ozone depleting substances regulatory requirements?

Ozone Depleting Substances (ODS) and other halocarbons are used as refrigerants in air conditioning and refrigeration units. Their purchasing, use, operation and maintenance are regulated. In BC, Ozone Depleting Substances (ODS) are regulated by the following provincial act/regulation and federal code of practice:

• Environmental Management Act
• Ozone Depleting Substances and Other Halocarbons Regulation
• Environmental Code of Practice for the Elimination of Fluorocarbon Emissions from Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Systems (2015)

Compliance with the above regulations ensure the following key requirements are met:

• ODS are not released from refrigeration equipment and ODS are not added to equipment for the purpose of testing
• Only an approved person provides service for ODS containing equipment
• Service is performed according to current code of practice
• Class 1 substances (CFCs, Halogens and Chlorocarbons per Schedule A of ODS regulation) have been phased out by 2015
• All releases of ODS and other halocarbons (refrigerants) are promptly reported

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How are ozone depleting substances applicable at UBC?

Ozone Depleting Substances or other halocarbons are used as refrigerants in various types of equipment at UBC:

• Chillers and air conditioning units in buildings across campus, as well as small departmental equipment
• UBC Food Services refrigeration and cooling units, located in food services facilities and cafes across campus
• Motor vehicle air conditioners
• Note: Fire suppression equipment at UBC contains no ODS

Contact UBC Building Operations Service Centre for safe removal of refrigerants by certified personnel or approved contractors
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What UBC ozone depleting substance forms are available?

• ODS-Release-Report-2024(fillable-pdf)

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