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<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?><rss version="2.0" xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/" xmlns:wfw="http://wellformedweb.org/CommentAPI/" xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/" xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom" xmlns:sy="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/syndication/" xmlns:slash="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/slash/" xmlns:georss="http://www.georss.org/georss" xmlns:geo="http://www.w3.org/2003/01/geo/wgs84_pos#" > <channel> <title>HVAC&R News</title> <atom:link href="http://www.hvacrnews.com.au/feed/" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml" /> <link>https://www.hvacrnews.com.au/</link> <description>The latest HVAC&R News</description> <lastBuildDate>Tue, 07 May 2024 03:04:22 +0000</lastBuildDate> <language>en-US</language> <sy:updatePeriod> hourly </sy:updatePeriod> <sy:updateFrequency> 1 </sy:updateFrequency> <generator>https://wordpress.org/?v=6.0.8</generator> <image> <url>https://www.hvacrnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/cropped-HVACRNews-icon-32x32.png</url> <title>HVAC&R News</title> <link>https://www.hvacrnews.com.au/</link> <width>32</width> <height>32</height></image> <site xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">144057868</site> <item> <title>How a mobile cooling hub prevented three medical emergencies</title> <link>https://www.hvacrnews.com.au/features/how-a-mobile-cooling-hub-prevented-three-medical-emergencies/</link> <comments>https://www.hvacrnews.com.au/features/how-a-mobile-cooling-hub-prevented-three-medical-emergencies/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Nick Johns-Wickberg]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Tue, 07 May 2024 03:02:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Features]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Dr Timothy English]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category> <category><![CDATA[heat inequity]]></category> <category><![CDATA[HHEATeam]]></category> <category><![CDATA[homelessness]]></category> <category><![CDATA[mobile cooling hub]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Queensland University of Technology]]></category> <category><![CDATA[St Vincent's Hospital]]></category> <category><![CDATA[University of Sydney]]></category> <category><![CDATA[University of Technology Sydney]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.hvacrnews.com.au/?p=17698</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>Dr Timothy English from the University of Sydney's HHEATeam talks about mobile cooling hubs catering to those experiencing homelessness.</p><p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.hvacrnews.com.au/features/how-a-mobile-cooling-hub-prevented-three-medical-emergencies/">How a mobile cooling hub prevented three medical emergencies</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.hvacrnews.com.au">HVAC&R News</a>.</p>]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Dr Timothy English is the leader of the University of Sydney’s HHEATeam, the driving force behind a <a href="https://www.sydney.edu.au/medicine-health/our-research/research-centres/heat-and-health-research-incubator/pop-up-mobile-cooling-hubs.html#uniqueId_aNBjHv4X_1_button" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pop-up cooling hub initiative</a> that provides relief to people experiencing homelessness during extreme heat events. </p> <p>The cooling hub uses <a href="https://www.hvacrnews.com.au/news/mobile-cooling-hub-offers-relief-to-those-doing-it-tough/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">practical, low-cost cooling techniques</a> such as misting fans, ice packs, wet towels, and foot baths to stave off heat.</p> <p>This summer, English and his team – including partners from St Vincent’s Hospital, University of Technology Sydney, Queensland University of Technology, and the City of Sydney – deployed the cooling hub three times across four days of extreme heat.</p> <p>English took the time to reflect on the successes and lessons of the project’s first summer in a Q&A with HVAC&R News.</p> <h4>HVAC&R News: What data did you obtain from your deployments of the cooling hub, and what have you learnt from the data? </h4> <p><strong>Dr Timothy English</strong>: We obtained the number of attendees, physiological measures, survey responses, and people’s length of stay. We haven’t fully analysed these data yet. However, at a quick glance of these preliminary data, it seems as though attendees reported cooler thermal sensation and improved thermal comfort, and gave positive feedback such as feeling comfortable with the support provided and recommending it to others. </p> <p>Most importantly, we averted three cases of potential emergency department (ED) admission, as reported by health services.</p> <h4>What were the most successful aspects of the project? </h4> <p>By far, servicing those three cases that may have been admitted to the ED, as well as the co-design and co-evaluation process. </p> <h4>Is there anything you’d change next time around? </h4> <p>We need to continue to research the feasibility and scalability of the hubs, and are seeking more funding to test and scale. This was just a pilot and we have learnt that there are many things we can change to potentially improve the service, such as whether entertainment like radio, TV and reading materials will reduce boredom and increase length of stay, or if a more structured outreach and greater communications would increase the number of attendees. </p> <p>It is evident that these vulnerable people won’t travel far to the hub, and as such we need to pop up in more locations to service more people.</p> <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.hvacrnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/240326-mobile-cooling-hub-2.webp"><img width="740" height="493" src="https://www.hvacrnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/240326-mobile-cooling-hub-2.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-17701" srcset="https://www.hvacrnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/240326-mobile-cooling-hub-2.webp 740w, https://www.hvacrnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/240326-mobile-cooling-hub-2-300x200.webp 300w" sizes="(max-width: 740px) 100vw, 740px" /></a><figcaption><em>Several visitors to the cooling hub brought their furry friend to beat the heat.</em></figcaption></figure> <h4>Was it challenging to get the staff together at short notice given that you can only forecast a few days in advance? </h4> <p>The first deployment was tough, as most of the fans needed to be assembled and it was the first time assembling the marquees. The <a href="https://www.hvacrnews.com.au/news/university-of-sydney-launches-heatwatch-app/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">HeatWatch app</a> now gives us a seven-day forecast, and we generally make the decision about four to five days out, so getting staff together isn’t a major issue. </p> <p>Sydney is lucky to have an exceptional health service called the <a href="https://www.svhs.org.au/our-services/list-of-services/homeless-health-service/our-services" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Homeless Health Service</a> that operates out of St Vincent’s Hospital Sydney, and the manager there – Matt Larkin – coordinates staffing for the cooling hubs. When in the past he would have organised staff to do more outreach to check in on those sleeping rough and provide bottles of water, now he focuses staff on a more targeted intervention: the cooling hubs. Funding and collaboration with services such as these will be crucial to the scalability of this initiative.</p> <h4>Are there plans to scale the project up across Australia next summer?<strong> </strong></h4> <p>This was the initial plan; however, we may need to delay scaling across Australia to the summer of 2025–26 while we first refine it here in Sydney next summer (2024–25). We want to make sure we service as many people as possible and provide the best service possible, and to do that we need to run more testing, such as deploying multiple cooling hubs in Sydney at one time while testing comms, access, outreach, and many other variables. </p> <h4>What kind of resources are required to scale up, and how many other hubs are you planning to establish? </h4> <p>We will be applying for more funding to refine cooling hubs in the City of Sydney first, and then will expand to other cities nationally. This will require extending collaboration with other councils and health services in those other cities, purchasing the required equipment to deploy the cooling hubs, linking with organisations and volunteers to help with staffing, providing renumeration to members of the team with lived experience of homelessness, travel, and of course employing researchers and funding research students to analyse and publish data and develop policy briefs. </p> <p>We also plan to examine the long-term effectiveness of cooling hubs by comparing ED admissions of people experiencing or at risk of homelessness during extreme-heat events pre- and post-initiative. However, this will likely take upwards of five years to determine.</p> <h4>Will co-design with people experiencing homelessness continue to play a role as you upscale? </h4> <p>Co-design is crucial. However, co-evaluation is just as important; it should be an ongoing process, with lived-experience members of the team included in all evaluation and decision-making wherever possible. So yes, people with lived experience of homelessness will continue to play a pivotal role as we endeavour to scale and ensure the initiative serves those it aims to assist. </p> <p>In fact, lived-experience members of our team will be presenting alongside Associate Professor Jo River, Professor Jane Currie and Alejandro Vasquez Hernandez on the co-design approach of the cooling hubs at our upcoming “Heat and Health Research Incubator Summit Series – Humanitarian Settings” on May 15 at the University of Sydney, in the Susan Wakil Health Building.</p> <p>People who contribute least to climate change are the most affected, and wherever possible should be included in the design and evaluation of interventions that seek to protect them from the devastation predicted.</p> <h4>Heat health summit series</h4> <p>Dr Timothy English and his team will be presenting the results of their cooling hub initiative at the University of Sydney on Wednesday, May 15.</p> <p><strong>Event</strong>: Extreme Heat in Humanitarian Settings – Co-designed pop-up cooling hubs for people experiencing or at risk of homelessness</p> <p><strong>Date:</strong> Wednesday, May 15, 2024</p> <p><strong>Time</strong>: 3–5pm with networking to follow</p> <p><strong>Location:</strong> In-person only, room 416, Susan Wakil Health Building, The University of Sydney, Camperdown Campus</p> <p><strong>Register</strong>: <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/heat-health-research-incubator-summit-series-humanitarian-settings-tickets-877158794567?aff=oddtdtcreator" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Via Eventbrite</a></p> <p><em>Images courtesy of the Sydney Morning Herald via the University of Sydney.</em></p><p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.hvacrnews.com.au/features/how-a-mobile-cooling-hub-prevented-three-medical-emergencies/">How a mobile cooling hub prevented three medical emergencies</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.hvacrnews.com.au">HVAC&R News</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://www.hvacrnews.com.au/features/how-a-mobile-cooling-hub-prevented-three-medical-emergencies/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">17698</post-id> </item> <item> <title>INWIC announces video competition winner</title> <link>https://www.hvacrnews.com.au/events_and_conferences/inwic-announces-video-competition-winner/</link> <comments>https://www.hvacrnews.com.au/events_and_conferences/inwic-announces-video-competition-winner/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Nick Johns-Wickberg]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Tue, 07 May 2024 00:47:32 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Events and conferences]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Charlotte Robinson]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category> <category><![CDATA[INWIC]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Stephen Gill]]></category> <category><![CDATA[video competition]]></category> <category><![CDATA[World Refrigeration Day]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.hvacrnews.com.au/?p=18131</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>Charlotte Robinson from the UK has claimed top spot in the second edition of INWIC's Women in Cooling video competition.</p><p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.hvacrnews.com.au/events_and_conferences/inwic-announces-video-competition-winner/">INWIC announces video competition winner</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.hvacrnews.com.au">HVAC&R News</a>.</p>]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Charlotte Robinson from the UK has claimed top spot in the second edition of the Women in Cooling video competition, run by the <a href="https://www.inwic.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">International Network of Women in Cooling</a> (INWIC). Robinson impressed the judges with her hands-on practical troubleshooting of a compressor, showcasing her expertise and technical acumen in the field.</p> <p>The international competition, which underscores the vital contributions of women in the refrigeration industry, saw eight female professionals vying for the title. This year’s event was particularly notable for its emphasis on practical and design skills, with Robinson’s entry highlighting the importance of problem-solving abilities in maintaining and optimising refrigeration systems.</p> <h4>A titanic award</h4> <p>The award ceremony, set to take place on May 23 at the historic Titanic Museum in Belfast, will honour Robinson’s achievement. </p> <p>Robinson will receive a €1,000 cheque from World Refrigeration Day. Her winning video, along with the submissions from the other talented contestants, is now publicly available. The <a href="https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL9ffJ1vCCAUrXekuuw08sKWSoTkvUd5Q-" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">playlist</a> showcases the innovative work and dedication of these professionals, providing inspiration for future generations of women and men in the industry.</p> <figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper"><div class="jetpack-video-wrapper"><iframe loading="lazy" class="youtube-player" width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/VKMUtcgRq2Q?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&listType=playlist&list=PL9ffJ1vCCAUrXekuuw08sKWSoTkvUd5Q-" allowfullscreen="true" style="border:0;" sandbox="allow-scripts allow-same-origin allow-popups allow-presentation"></iframe></div></div></figure> <p>“I am thrilled to congratulate Charlotte Robinson on her well-deserved victory in this year’s Women in Cooling video competition,” says Stephen Gill, Founder of World Refrigeration Day. </p> <p>“This competition celebrates not just individual achievement, but the collective progress and inspiring potential of all women in refrigeration, air conditioning, and heat pumps. Let us continue to support and amplify the visibility of such talented professionals, paving the way for a more diverse and inclusive future in our field.”</p> <p>The participants in the competition were:</p> <ul><li>Charlotte Robinson – United Kingdom (winner)</li><li>Katie Cronin – Ireland</li><li>Tie Kieuw Lee – Netherlands</li><li>Chloe Jennings – United Kingdom</li><li>Sharon Byrne – Ireland</li><li>Carmen Rodriguez Ortiz – Ireland</li><li>Zdenka Bukovinová – Slovakia</li><li>Joanne Mitchell – United Kingdom</li></ul><p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.hvacrnews.com.au/events_and_conferences/inwic-announces-video-competition-winner/">INWIC announces video competition winner</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.hvacrnews.com.au">HVAC&R News</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://www.hvacrnews.com.au/events_and_conferences/inwic-announces-video-competition-winner/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">18131</post-id> </item> <item> <title>NAWIC to host professional success webinar</title> <link>https://www.hvacrnews.com.au/events_and_conferences/nawic-to-host-professional-success-webinar/</link> <comments>https://www.hvacrnews.com.au/events_and_conferences/nawic-to-host-professional-success-webinar/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Nick Johns-Wickberg]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Mon, 06 May 2024 04:23:26 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Events and conferences]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Kate Bartlett]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Meg Salter]]></category> <category><![CDATA[NAWIC]]></category> <category><![CDATA[professional success]]></category> <category><![CDATA[webinar]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Women in construction]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.hvacrnews.com.au/?p=18125</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>The National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) will host a webinar about professional success on Thursday May 9. </p><p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.hvacrnews.com.au/events_and_conferences/nawic-to-host-professional-success-webinar/">NAWIC to host professional success webinar</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.hvacrnews.com.au">HVAC&R News</a>.</p>]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>The National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) will host a webinar about professional success on Thursday May 9. </p> <p>Recruitment specialists Meg Salter and Kate Bartlett will be presenting during the hour-long webinar. They will talk about how women in the industry can take control of their professional journey by using tools and strategies that can help them thrive in their career.</p> <p>The session will cover:</p> <ul><li>How to confidently request a pay rise</li><li>Crafting an impactful resume and cover letter</li><li>Tips and tricks for using language and posture during meetings.</li></ul> <h4>Presenters</h4> <p><strong>Meg Salter</strong> is a renowned speaker and consultant who has inspired audiences worldwide for over two decades. She co-founded RecruitableHub to empower job seekers globally with effective tools and guidance. Leveraging her expertise in CV writing and coaching, Meg’s platform facilitates success for candidates in securing their desired roles, extending her impact to aspiring professionals everywhere.</p> <p><strong>Kate Bartlett</strong> is an experienced professional in the construction industry, working as a people & culture manager for several companies. Renowned as a corporate matchmaker, she adeptly addresses diverse career challenges. As one of the co-founders of RecruitableHub, Kate is dedicated to equipping job seekers with vital tools, confidence, and knowledge to secure and maximise their job opportunities.</p> <h4>Event details</h4> <p>Date and time: Thursday May 9, 1pm</p> <p>Register: Via <a href="https://nawic.com.au/Site/Events/Event_Registration.aspx?EventKey=NAT240509" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NAWIC website</a></p> <p>Price: Free for NAWIC members</p><p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.hvacrnews.com.au/events_and_conferences/nawic-to-host-professional-success-webinar/">NAWIC to host professional success webinar</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.hvacrnews.com.au">HVAC&R News</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://www.hvacrnews.com.au/events_and_conferences/nawic-to-host-professional-success-webinar/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">18125</post-id> </item> <item> <title>Chemours discontinues US sales of R404A</title> <link>https://www.hvacrnews.com.au/news/chemours-discontinues-us-sales-of-r404a/</link> <comments>https://www.hvacrnews.com.au/news/chemours-discontinues-us-sales-of-r404a/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Mark Vender]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Sun, 05 May 2024 21:55:49 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[News]]></category> <category><![CDATA[American Innovation and Manufacturing Act of 2020]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Chemours]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Doug Westerhoff]]></category> <category><![CDATA[HFC phase-down]]></category> <category><![CDATA[R404A]]></category> <category><![CDATA[refrigerants]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Slider]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.hvacrnews.com.au/?p=18120</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>Global chemistry company Chemours has announced its strategic decision to cease sales of R404A and R507 in the US.</p><p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.hvacrnews.com.au/news/chemours-discontinues-us-sales-of-r404a/">Chemours discontinues US sales of R404A</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.hvacrnews.com.au">HVAC&R News</a>.</p>]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Global chemistry company Chemours has announced its strategic decision to cease sales of R404A and R507 in the US.</p> <p>Chemours says the strategy aligns with regulatory phase-downs of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), outlined under the American Innovation and Manufacturing (AIM) Act and Canada’s Ozone-depleting Substances and Halocarbon Alternatives Regulations (ODSHAR).</p> <p>“This decision supports our commitment to creating a better world through the power of our chemistry, advancing decarbonisation, circularity, and socioeconomic value through greener solutions industrywide,” says Doug Westerhoff, Americas Sales Director of Thermal & Specialized Solutions at Chemours.</p> <p>“The US AIM Act outlines an ambitious phasedown program that demands a significant reduction in HFC sales and consumption with a targeted 40 per cent phase down by 2024. This target helped shape the timing of our announcement, and we are confident this decision will contribute significantly to our customers meeting their sustainability targets.”</p> <p>Alternatives are available for systems operating on both outgoing refrigerants.</p> <p>“By ceasing the provision of higher GWP refrigerants in the market, Chemours is making a clear and decisive move towards real change, underlining the urgent need for industry-wide commitment to this global responsibility,” the company says in a statement.</p> <p>“Chemours will continue investing in research and development to drive the innovation of next-generation refrigerants and other sustainable solutions.”</p> <p>Meanwhile, despite having a GWP of 3,922, R404A is still the go-to option for many small-to-medium commercial refrigeration installations in Australia due to its low first cost for end-users.</p> <p>According to the most recent <em><a href="https://www.dcceew.gov.au/environment/protection/ozone/publications/cold-hard-facts-2022">Cold Hard Facts</a></em> report, 880 tonnes of R404A were consumed in Australia in 2021, growing from an average of 834 tonnes per annum over the previous five years.</p><p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.hvacrnews.com.au/news/chemours-discontinues-us-sales-of-r404a/">Chemours discontinues US sales of R404A</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.hvacrnews.com.au">HVAC&R News</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://www.hvacrnews.com.au/news/chemours-discontinues-us-sales-of-r404a/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">18120</post-id> </item> <item> <title>Idealair Group partners with OneAir</title> <link>https://www.hvacrnews.com.au/products/idealair-group-partners-with-oneair/</link> <comments>https://www.hvacrnews.com.au/products/idealair-group-partners-with-oneair/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Nick Johns-Wickberg]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Sat, 04 May 2024 00:10:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Products]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Idealair]]></category> <category><![CDATA[partnership]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.hvacrnews.com.au/?p=18117</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>Australian wholesaler Idealair Group has announced a partnership with OneAir, a company that innovates in air diffusion systems.</p><p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.hvacrnews.com.au/products/idealair-group-partners-with-oneair/">Idealair Group partners with OneAir</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.hvacrnews.com.au">HVAC&R News</a>.</p>]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Australian wholesaler Idealair Group has announced a partnership with OneAir, a company that innovates in air diffusion systems.</p> <p>The partnership will see Idealair stocking OneAir’s high induction duct systems. OneAir’s microperferated ducts come in a range of shapes, sizes, and materials. These include textiles, metals, and plastics depending on required heating and cooling needs.</p> <p>Idealair has outlets in NSW, Tasmania, Queensland, and Victoria.</p><p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.hvacrnews.com.au/products/idealair-group-partners-with-oneair/">Idealair Group partners with OneAir</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.hvacrnews.com.au">HVAC&R News</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://www.hvacrnews.com.au/products/idealair-group-partners-with-oneair/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">18117</post-id> </item> <item> <title>We observed transcritical CO₂ training in action – here’s what we learnt</title> <link>https://www.hvacrnews.com.au/features/we-observed-transcritical-co%e2%82%82-training-in-action-heres-what-we-learnt/</link> <comments>https://www.hvacrnews.com.au/features/we-observed-transcritical-co%e2%82%82-training-in-action-heres-what-we-learnt/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Nick Johns-Wickberg]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Thu, 02 May 2024 23:35:31 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Education]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Features]]></category> <category><![CDATA[AIRAH]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Airefrig]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Bendigo TAFE]]></category> <category><![CDATA[CA Group Services]]></category> <category><![CDATA[CO2 refrigeration]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Dave Smalldon]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category> <category><![CDATA[GOTAFE]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Peter McQueen]]></category> <category><![CDATA[TAFE Victoria]]></category> <category><![CDATA[training]]></category> <category><![CDATA[transcritical Co2]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.hvacrnews.com.au/?p=18000</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>What does a one-day transcritical CO₂ training course involve? Nick Johns-Wickberg headed out to Airefrig in Melbourne’s west to find out.</p><p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.hvacrnews.com.au/features/we-observed-transcritical-co%e2%82%82-training-in-action-heres-what-we-learnt/">We observed transcritical CO₂ training in action – here’s what we learnt</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.hvacrnews.com.au">HVAC&R News</a>.</p>]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><em>What does a one-day transcritical CO₂ training course involve? Nick Johns-Wickberg headed out to <a href="https://www.airefrig.com.au/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Airefrig</a> in Melbourne’s west to find out.</em></p> <p>As high-GWP refrigerants are phased down and eventually out, carbon dioxide (CO₂) is one of several natural refrigerants that will continue to increase in popularity over the coming decade or so. Supermarket chains are leading the charge, with Woolworths recently announcing the launch of its <a href="https://www.hvacrnews.com.au/events_and_conferences/woolworths-to-celebrate-sustainability-milestone/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">100<sup>th</sup> transcritical CO₂ store</a>. </p> <p>But despite the technology becoming more mainstream, there remains a significant skills gap. Many fridgies have never worked on transcritical CO₂ or received training about how it differs from classic refrigeration. </p> <p>To remedy this, GOTAFE, CA Group Services, and Airefrig have collaborated to offer an accredited transcritical CO₂ training course supported by AIRAH, TAFE Victoria, and Bendigo TAFE. The course uses <a href="https://www.hvacrnews.com.au/education/state-of-the-art-refrigeration-training-pods-on-the-way/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">two mobile training pods</a> that simulate the kind of transcritical CO₂ system you’d find in a supermarket. </p> <p>The latest iteration of the training – which was predominantly for Woolworths refrigeration technicians – took place in five one-day sessions over the week of April 15–19 at Airefrig’s Truganina branch in Melbourne’s western suburbs. During the week, 62 fridgies attended and successfully completed the training. </p> <p>I attended one of these sessions to speak with the instructors, meet the trainees, and see what’s involved in the training. </p> <h4>The classroom </h4> <p>We begin our day at 9am in the classroom, where instructor Peter McQueen gives trainees a one-hour recap of the theory behind transcritical CO₂ systems. A few weeks earlier, the trainees attended two four-hour Zoom sessions, in which McQueen went through the theory in detail. They then completed an online assessment through GOTAFE. </p> <p>“They’ve turned up here with the theory covered and the theory assessment ticked off,” McQueen says. “It covers two units of competency: ‘Apply safety awareness and legal requirements for carbon dioxide refrigeration’ and ‘Repair and service carbon dioxide refrigeration systems’.”</p> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><a href="https://www.hvacrnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/240428-Classroom-1.jpg"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="510" src="https://www.hvacrnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/240428-Classroom-1-1024x510.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18006" srcset="https://www.hvacrnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/240428-Classroom-1-1024x510.jpg 1024w, https://www.hvacrnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/240428-Classroom-1-300x149.jpg 300w, https://www.hvacrnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/240428-Classroom-1-768x382.jpg 768w, https://www.hvacrnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/240428-Classroom-1.jpg 1041w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></a><figcaption><em>Instructor Peter McQueen runs attendees through the theory component of the training.</em></figcaption></figure> <p>This classroom time is mainly for the sake of revision. However, it also gives trainees the chance to ask questions of the experienced instructors, who acknowledge that theory isn’t everyone’s strong suit. </p> <p>“We learn best by doing things,” McQueen says. “Some of the guys do struggle a bit online.” </p> <p>To pass their theory test, trainees have to achieve 100 per cent. They get several attempts to do this. </p> <h4>Hands-on training </h4> <p>Around 10am, we head outside and the real work begins. </p> <p>The trainees today are from Woolsorths – some have travelled from country Victoria to be here, others from interstate. Scott Milburn, Assistant State FM Manager for Victoria and Tasmania at Woolworths, points out how serious Woolworths is about training its staff to work on these systems. </p> <p>“Woolworths enrolled 61 technicians with a range of skill levels, so trying to ensure training meets the brief to support all levels was always high on our priority list,” Milburn says.</p> <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.hvacrnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/CO2-training-2-web-res.jpg"><img loading="lazy" width="679" height="434" src="https://www.hvacrnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/CO2-training-2-web-res.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18115" srcset="https://www.hvacrnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/CO2-training-2-web-res.jpg 679w, https://www.hvacrnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/CO2-training-2-web-res-300x192.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 679px) 100vw, 679px" /></a><figcaption><em>The hands-on component of the course focuses on practical skills and knowledge.</em></figcaption></figure> <p>After a quick briefing from McQueen’s colleague, GOTAFE instructor Dave Smalldon, Affil.AIRAH, the trainees split into two groups of six, with each group working on one of the mobile training pods. During this time, McQueen and Smalldon encourage the trainees to explore the system and familiarise themselves with its components. </p> <p>“After we’ve talked about the theory and those extra components that are unique to transcritical CO₂, we get them to come out here and just spend some time,” McQueen says. “It’s not even about running the plant; we just want them to open the doors up, follow the pipework, get a bit of paper and draw a mud map of where the components are, and get their head around it. </p> <p>“A lot of what we do is observation. We use our senses; we look, we touch, we go around and look for patches of oil that might indicate leaks.” </p> <p>McQueen and Smalldon are on hand to help the trainees with any questions and guide them as they navigate their way around the system. Once the trainees have familiarised themselves with the gear, it’s time to practise what they’ll later be asked to do in their assessment. </p> <p>“There are two practical exercises we make them do,” McQueen says. “The first is to charge some refrigerant into the system, which they do in pairs. That involves setting up the equipment, bringing it down, using a bit of workplace health and safety – they use their head, not their back. They set it all up, charge some refrigerant, then shut it down and remove all the equipment. </p> <p>“In the second exercise, they change an oil filter. This involves isolating some components and removing and replacing the filter.” </p> <h4>A spanner in the works </h4> <p>Maintenance and repair is rarely a smooth ride. Any number of faults could emerge, and fridgies need to be able to think on their feet to resolve potentially complex and evolving problems. </p> <p>That’s why during the training, the instructors mix it up and put trainees to work in scenarios similar to what they might find in their everyday job. </p> <p>“After they’ve had a good look at the system, I show them some scenarios where I actually force the system into some faults,” McQueen says. “I force it to run in subcritical, then we observe and discover things they can do on their plant at work. By opening valves, they can get some feedback on what does what. Then I trick it and force it to run in transcritical, regardless of the conditions, so they can see what changes. </p> <p>“At a certain point I might throw it into overload and the whole thing shuts down, so they can see what’s going on.” </p> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><a href="https://www.hvacrnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/240428-Peter-with-group-web-res-1-scaled.jpg"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="459" src="https://www.hvacrnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/240428-Peter-with-group-web-res-1-1024x459.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18009" srcset="https://www.hvacrnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/240428-Peter-with-group-web-res-1-1024x459.jpg 1024w, https://www.hvacrnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/240428-Peter-with-group-web-res-1-300x135.jpg 300w, https://www.hvacrnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/240428-Peter-with-group-web-res-1-768x344.jpg 768w, https://www.hvacrnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/240428-Peter-with-group-web-res-1-1536x689.jpg 1536w, https://www.hvacrnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/240428-Peter-with-group-web-res-1-2048x919.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></a><figcaption><em>McQueen shows the trainees how the system functions in different scenarios, including subcritical, transcritical, and overload.</em></figcaption></figure> <p>While these exercises are designed to challenge the trainees and make them think, they’re not trying to catch anyone out. McQueen and Smalldon supervise, instruct, and intervene where necessary. </p> <h4>Practical assessment </h4> <p>After lunch is when things get serious. The trainees must complete the two practical assessments: charging refrigerant into the system and changing an oil filter. </p> <p>One of the benefits of this set-up is that there are two mobile training pods, each with their own quirks, as the trainees are likely to find when they move from store to store in their regular work. During the session, trainees need to perform the assessment tasks on both pods. </p> <p>“To prove competency, they have to do it twice,” McQueen says. “The second time, they’ll go to the second pod, which is a little bit different – it’s got some different components. </p> <p>“They’re getting true exposure to what they’re going to do, which is unique because a lot of TAFEs don’t have two different systems. </p> <p>“When you train someone, you show them and do it together first, then they do it on their own.” </p> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><a href="https://www.hvacrnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/240428-Connecting.jpg"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="682" src="https://www.hvacrnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/240428-Connecting-1024x682.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18007" srcset="https://www.hvacrnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/240428-Connecting-1024x682.jpg 1024w, https://www.hvacrnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/240428-Connecting-300x200.jpg 300w, https://www.hvacrnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/240428-Connecting-768x512.jpg 768w, https://www.hvacrnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/240428-Connecting.jpg 1097w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></a><figcaption><em>Every trainee must complete the practical assessments twice.</em></figcaption></figure> <h4>The response </h4> <p>During the training day, I chatted with several of the fridgies as they went about their work. They were full of praise for the trainers and the structure of the course, especially the practical components. They also felt that the knowledge they acquired during the session would be directly applicable to their everyday work. </p> <p>Smalldon says this is typical of the broader response to the training. </p> <p>“From every student and all the supervisors, the feedback has been nothing short of fantastic,” Smalldon says. </p> <figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.hvacrnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/240428-Dave-Smalldon-web-res-1.jpg"><img loading="lazy" width="806" height="430" src="https://www.hvacrnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/240428-Dave-Smalldon-web-res-1.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-18010" srcset="https://www.hvacrnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/240428-Dave-Smalldon-web-res-1.jpg 806w, https://www.hvacrnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/240428-Dave-Smalldon-web-res-1-300x160.jpg 300w, https://www.hvacrnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/240428-Dave-Smalldon-web-res-1-768x410.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 806px) 100vw, 806px" /></a><figcaption><em>Instructor Dave Smalldon, Affil.AIRAH, runs the practical component of the course alongside Peter McQueen.</em></figcaption></figure> <p>Scott Milburn from Woolworths describes the training as a success story for collaboration within the industry. He says feedback from technicians who have undertaken the course “has been extremely positive – engaging, hands-on, trade-relevant and safety-focused are some of the key callouts.”</p> <h4>The value of certification</h4> <p>An important feature of the training is that it’s certified. After their theoretical assessment and their day of hands-on training, participants come away with two formal competencies: ‘Apply safety awareness and legal requirements for carbon dioxide refrigeration’ and ‘Repair and service carbon dioxide refrigeration systems’. </p> <p>Smalldon points out that not only are these qualifications useful, but they could soon become essential. </p> <p>“In the future, it is anticipated that a licence or endorsement for CO₂ will happen,” he says. “The requirement will include these units.” </p> <p>Milburn agrees, noting that formal certification is important for ensuring the quality of the company’s operations.</p> <p>“One of Woolworths’ core values is ‘we’re always improving’,” Milburn says. “Certified training really enables Woolworths to deliver on our core values, improving technicians’ confidence and capabilities to deliver a high service standard to our primary customer: the stores. </p> <p>“Relevant industry training for our team is a key component to supporting the upskilling of our team for now. However, the business will continue to see the return on investment as the knowledge cascades down to our 42 apprentices nationally over time. The industry is changing at pace, and the certified CO₂ course ensures our technicians have the correct accreditation for any class change moving into the future.” </p> <h4>What’s next?</h4> <p>Milburn says Woolworths plans to expand the training to ensure all its refrigeration mechanics are formally certified in CO₂ refrigeration.</p> <p>“Woolworths will continue to invest in upskilling the entire team over time,” he says. “The initial training has been targeted to states that have a larger number of operational CO₂ and TCO₂ plants. </p> <p>According to Smalldon, formal CO₂ regulation can’t come quickly enough. </p> <p>“I am absolutely positive that training on transcritical and subcritical CO₂ systems should be mandatory and regulated,” Smalldon says, “due to the very high pressures and differences compared to other vapour compression systems.” </p> <p>While providing CO₂ training to Australian fridgies en masse will be a challenge, the success of this course shows that the HVAC&R industry can rise to the occasion.</p><p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.hvacrnews.com.au/features/we-observed-transcritical-co%e2%82%82-training-in-action-heres-what-we-learnt/">We observed transcritical CO₂ training in action – here’s what we learnt</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.hvacrnews.com.au">HVAC&R News</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://www.hvacrnews.com.au/features/we-observed-transcritical-co%e2%82%82-training-in-action-heres-what-we-learnt/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">18000</post-id> </item> <item> <title>NCC 2025 open for public comment</title> <link>https://www.hvacrnews.com.au/public_comment/ncc-2025-open-for-public-comment/</link> <comments>https://www.hvacrnews.com.au/public_comment/ncc-2025-open-for-public-comment/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Nick Johns-Wickberg]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Thu, 02 May 2024 07:37:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Legislation updates]]></category> <category><![CDATA[News]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Public comment]]></category> <category><![CDATA[ABCB]]></category> <category><![CDATA[building codes]]></category> <category><![CDATA[compliance]]></category> <category><![CDATA[electrification]]></category> <category><![CDATA[NatHERS]]></category> <category><![CDATA[NCC 2025]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Slider]]></category> <category><![CDATA[thermal efficiency]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.hvacrnews.com.au/?p=18085</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>The Public Comment Draft for the next edition of the National Construction Code (NCC) is open for comment until 11:59pm AEST on July 1, 2024. </p><p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.hvacrnews.com.au/public_comment/ncc-2025-open-for-public-comment/">NCC 2025 open for public comment</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.hvacrnews.com.au">HVAC&R News</a>.</p>]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>The <a href="https://www.abcb.gov.au/news/2024/ncc-public-comment-draft?utm_source=1+May&utm_medium=EDM" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Public Comment Draft</a> for the next edition of the National Construction Code (NCC) is open for comment until 11:59pm AEST on July 1, 2024. </p> <p>The 2025 iteration of the NCC focuses on commercial buildings and contains a number of updates that will be of interest to HVAC&R professionals. We’ve reviewed the most relevant proposed changes below.</p> <h4>Commercial building energy efficiency</h4> <p>According to the ABCB, the <a href="https://www.abcb.gov.au/pcd/pcd-2025-commercial-building-energy-efficiency" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">proposed changes to NCC Volume One</a> provide “cost-effective, fuel and technology neutral ways for buildings to move towards a net zero future”. They also support the continued uptake of electric vehicles (EVs).</p> <p>The changes cover commercial buildings (Class 3 and Class 5 to 9 buildings) and the common areas of apartment buildings (Class 2 buildings). They include:</p> <ul><li>Updates to the Deemed-to-Satisfy (DTS) Provisions</li><li>New infrastructure requirements to further support EV charging</li><li>Requiring photovoltaics (PV) to be installed</li><li>Measures that support broader government initiatives to transition towards a renewable electricity grid. For a building, this means changes to the NCC to enable gas-powered equipment to be easily changed to an electric replacement in the future (electrification).</li></ul> <p>In terms of the detail, there are proposed changes across most of Section J including to the Performance Requirements, Verification Methods and DTS Provisions compared to NCC 2022. </p> <h4>Condensation mitigation</h4> <p>These <a href="https://www.abcb.gov.au/pcd/pcd-2025-condensation-mitigation" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">proposed further changes</a> to NCC Volume One and the Housing Provisions Standard would aim to better manage the risk of condensation in residential and residential-type buildings.</p> <p>These include changes to four main areas:</p> <ul><li>External walls in climate zones 1 to 5</li><li>External walls in climate zones 6 to 8</li><li>Roof ventilation openings</li><li>Application of the requirements to hotels, hostels etc. (Class 3 buildings) and aged-care buildings (Class 9c buildings).</li></ul> <h4>Improving fire safety Performance Solutions</h4> <p>The <a href="https://www.abcb.gov.au/pcd/pcd-2025-improving-fire-safety-performance-solutions" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">proposed changes</a> are to Volumes One and Two of the NCC to improve the robustness of Performance Solutions for the fire safety of buildings. This includes removing Expert Judgement as an Assessment Method for fire safety Performance Solutions (A2G2). There is no proposal for any changes to the NCC fire safety Performance Requirements for the 2025 edition of the NCC.</p> <h4>Apartment energy efficiency – centralised heated water systems</h4> <p><a href="https://www.abcb.gov.au/pcd/pcd-2025-apartment-energy-efficiency-centralised-heated-water-systems" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">These changes</a> would increase the range of compliance options available for apartment buildings (Class 2 buildings) with centralised heated water systems.</p> <p>At present, practitioners cannot use either the Deemed-to-Satisfy elemental or the Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme (NatHERS) compliance pathways to show NCC compliance in apartment buildings with centralised hot water systems. Instead, practitioners must use J1V5 or another Performance Solution to demonstrate compliance with Performance Requirement J1P3.</p> <p>The proposed changes would affect J3D14(1), (2), and (3).</p> <h4>Housing energy efficiency – thermal breaks</h4> <p>These <a href="https://www.abcb.gov.au/pcd/pcd-2025-housing-energy-efficiency-thermal-breaks" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">changes to the Housing Provisions Standard</a> would clarify and align the thermal break requirements for roofs and walls. </p> <p>These changes include:</p> <ul><li>Updating the thermal break provisions for both metal-framed roofs and metal-framed walls (13.2.3(7) and 13.2.5(5))</li><li>Clarifying the requirements for walls constructed from insulated sandwich panels (13.2.5(6)).</li></ul> <h4>Assisting future electrification and EV charging in homes</h4> <p>The <a href="https://www.abcb.gov.au/pcd/pcd-2025-assisting-future-electrification-and-ev-charging-homes" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">following proposed changes</a> to the Housing Provisions Standard referenced by NCC Volume Two would make it easier to replace gas-powered appliances in homes with electric-powered appliances at a low cost.</p> <p>These changes include: </p> <ul><li>Requiring more switchboard capacity for a new house (Class 1 building) (Clause 13.7.10)</li><li>Requiring infrastructure to support faster domestic charging of an EV in the garage (or carport, etc.) of a new house (Clause 13.7.11). </li></ul> <h4>AIRAH to provide target webinar</h4> <p>AIRAH is hosting a <a href="https://airah.org.au/site/event?WebsiteKey=e3b51d3a-9595-4b7d-bdee-7a3ee38caa34&EventKey=WEB160524" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">webinar on how the changes to NCC 2025 will affect HVAC&R professionals</a>. </p> <p>In the webinar Erica Kenna, M.AIRAH, from the Australian Building Codes Board (ACBC) will examine and explain the proposed changes. She will be accompanied by Brett Fairweather, M.AIRAH, and Ken Thomson, F.AIRAH, for a panel discussion on the proposed changes and their overall objectives. The webinar will also provide guidance on how you can make an impact through the public comment draft.</p> <p>The webinar will be held from <strong>12.30-1.45pm on Thursday, May 16, 2024</strong>. You can <a href="https://airah.org.au/site/event?WebsiteKey=e3b51d3a-9595-4b7d-bdee-7a3ee38caa34&EventKey=WEB160524" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">register via the AIRAH website</a> until 10am on the morning of the webinar. The webinar is free for AIRAH members and costs $40 for non-members.</p> <h4>ABCB on the road</h4> <p>The ABCB is running a series of in-person and online roadshow events across Australia to provide information on the NCC Public Comment Draft and the proposed changes. The events will take place in all state and territory capital cities in May and early June. </p> <p>You can find the <a href="https://www.abcb.gov.au/news/2024/register-now-attend-ncc-public-comment-draft-roadshows" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">full schedule of roadshow events</a> and <a href="https://www.abcbroadshow.thisiscreative.com.au/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">register to attend</a> on the ABCB website.</p> <h4>Have your say</h4> <p>You can provide comment directly via the <a href="https://consultation.abcb.gov.au/engagement/ncc-2025-public-comment-draft/consultation/subpage.2020-09-07.3451609615/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ABCB’s online portal</a>. To do so, you will need to provide your name and the name of your organisation. You can choose whether or not to allow the ABCB to publish your comment.</p> <p>You will then need to download the NCC Public Comment Draft Response Sheet, fill in the sheet, then upload the completed document to the ABCB’s portal.</p> <p>Do you strongly agree or disagree with any of the proposed changes? Are there any other changes that you would make to the 2025 edition of the NCC? Let us know in the comment section below.</p><p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.hvacrnews.com.au/public_comment/ncc-2025-open-for-public-comment/">NCC 2025 open for public comment</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.hvacrnews.com.au">HVAC&R News</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://www.hvacrnews.com.au/public_comment/ncc-2025-open-for-public-comment/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">18085</post-id> </item> <item> <title>IAQ and energy – getting the balance right</title> <link>https://www.hvacrnews.com.au/news/iaq-and-energy-getting-the-balance-right/</link> <comments>https://www.hvacrnews.com.au/news/iaq-and-energy-getting-the-balance-right/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Mark Vender]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Thu, 02 May 2024 01:44:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[News]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Brock Manville]]></category> <category><![CDATA[covid-19]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Dr Claire Bird]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Future Buildings Forum]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Geoff Hanmer]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Indoor air quality]]></category> <category><![CDATA[John Penny]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Professor Lidia Morawska]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Simon Witts]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Sohail Hasnie]]></category> <category><![CDATA[THRIVE program]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.hvacrnews.com.au/?p=18088</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>The THRIVE research centre held a Future Buildings Forum in Sydney this week, focusing on the nexus between energy and indoor air quality.</p><p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.hvacrnews.com.au/news/iaq-and-energy-getting-the-balance-right/">IAQ and energy – getting the balance right</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.hvacrnews.com.au">HVAC&R News</a>.</p>]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>The THRIVE research centre held a Future Buildings Forum in Sydney this week, focusing on the nexus between energy and indoor air quality (IAQ).</p> <p>The event united experts from across a wide range of disciplines, with around 25 in person and over 50 online attendees. A strong line-up of Australian and international speakers explored how to balance our expectations for IAQ and thermal comfort with building sustainability and energy use.</p> <h4>Energy in the room</h4> <p>Sohail Hasnie, a former energy specialist with the Asian Development Bank, spoke about the potential for renewable energy and battery storage to transform the built environment – and the opportunities this might offer for using energy to improve IAQ.</p> <p>Brock Manville, Energy Manager at the National Arts Gallery in Washington DC, shared the IAQ and energy journey of his facility through the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond. Of particular interest were the gallery’s air washers that not only reduced the spread of airborne viruses, but were also highly effective in eliminating odours and smoke during the wildfires of 2023.</p> <p>When the COVID-19 pandemic began, the gallery doubled the rate of external air intake, and has maintained this since. According to Manville, staff have responded positively to the air quality being well serviced by the air washer and the higher levels of ventilation. The challenge the gallery now faces is maintaining staff confidence while addressing obligations to climate change. </p> <p>Professor Jason Monty from the University of Melbourne and Professor Geoff Hanmer from the University of Technology Sydney explained some of the key ventilation problems in public buildings, and the underlying issues in the national construction code (NCC).</p> <h4>Structural issues </h4> <p>VA Engineering Director Simon Witts, M.AIRAH, gave a stark explanation of what he called the biggest determinant of building design: price. As he pointed out, by the time a project reaches an engineer, there is limited scope for developing an innovative design – mostly, the requirement is the minimum standard set by the NCC. He also pointed to the lack of building commissioning, especially where the property is being constructed for developers rather than the building owner. Time allocated for commissioning in a project plan frequently gets squeezed out to compensate for earlier delays elsewhere.</p> <p>John Penny, M.AIRAH, agreed, noting that commissioning remains an underused tool in providing buildings that meet their design objectives. The opportunity for commissioning during construction remains a strong contender for better construction outcomes. </p> <p>Associate Director of AIRAH’s IAQ STG Dr Claire Bird, Affil.AIRAH, attended the event and says one of the big takeaways was that some of the most serious barriers to improving IAQ are not just technical or behavioural, but systemic.</p> <p>“There is a tendency for developers to focus on lowest cost, meeting minimum required standards and to push tenders in favour of the fastest timeline,” Bird says. “And when buildings are completed, a lack of oversight can lead to underperformance.</p> <p>“It became very evident that we need strengthening of the NCC. And there remain several issues that members of AIRAH’s IAQ Special Technical Group have separately raised. These include the how, what and when for cheap air quality sensors, and how we gather other metrics of safe air, such as the composition of airborne particulate matter. Other factors that must be considered include dampness and volatile or semi-volatile organic compounds, which will deteriorate the quality of air in the building. Members have also expressed the desire to focus efforts on currently established energy-saving and moisture-mitigating interventions.”</p> <h4><strong>Making IAQ visible</strong></h4> <p>Participants discussed the “dream” of having visible sensor outputs in all public buildings, allowing people to see whether the air is safe, potentially based on the recently published <a href="https://www.hvacrnews.com.au/news/blueprint-for-mandating-indoor-air-quality/">blueprint for mandating indoor air quality</a>.</p> <p>But Bird warns that these parameters will not tell the whole IAQ story. She gives the example of the recommendations of <a href="https://www.ashrae.org/technical-resources/bookstore/ashrae-standard-241-control-of-infectious-aerosols" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ASHRAE Standard 241</a>, which provides for the addition of air filtration devices to reduce aerosol loads at times of high infection risk. These systems improve indoor air by removing inhalable particles, but they do not remove CO<sub>2</sub>, which can lead to elevated CO<sub>2</sub> levels even though the risk of airborne infection transmission has been mitigated.</p> <p>“This is where it remains important to consider effective air infiltration rates, as set out under ASHRAE 241, rather than expect all HVAC systems to be able to achieve a given number of litres/second/person immediately. According to Prof. Hammer, over 90 per cent of our schools have split, recirculating HVAC systems and are likely fitted with inadequate natural ventilation to achieve either the blueprint thresholds for CO<sub>2</sub> or ventilation rate, or the ASHRAE 241 ventilation thresholds in a packed classroom.”</p> <p>As Witts underlined during the discussion, Standard 241 also provides an option to achieve a given ventilation rate on a per person basis by controlling occupant numbers at time of increased infection risk – and explains the decision to set ventilation standards around a per person rate.</p> <h4>Many kinds of vulnerability</h4> <p>Bird also highlights the range of IAQ issues people face.</p> <p>“The metrics you use to show how good your air quality is also depend on which health risks you are trying to manage,” she says. “According to the <a href="https://www.saferairproject.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Safer Air Project</a>, around 30 per cent or so of Australian occupants are vulnerable to serious disease from respiratory infectious diseases like COVID-19. While they might be reassured by public sensors that show low particulate and CO<sub>2</sub> levels, someone entering a building with chemical sensitivities will be more assured by seeing a green light for volatile organic compounds.”</p> <p>Bird notes that high humidity also notably reduces occupant satisfaction with air quality.</p> <p>“High humidity reportedly increases rates of emissions of VOCs from surfaces and increases the potential for dampness-associated contaminants if high levels are not curtailed,” she says. “These include aerosols from mould, unwanted bacteria, dust mites and even rodents. The survival time of many pathogens is increased under specific humidity conditions. And the people who are vulnerable are often surprising. For instance, research out of the University of Melbourne showed that the main population of people with non-allergic asthma when exposed to dampness-related changes in buildings are middle-aged men.”</p> <p>Bird says, however, that despite the challenges around establishing IAQ thresholds, they offer a path forward. </p> <p>“I remain supportive of the need for IAQ thresholds as a starting point, providing that it is made clear to building users that there are limitations around dashboards that claim a safe environment based only on carbon monoxide, CO<sub>2</sub>, respirable particulate matter (PM<sub>2.5</sub>), and ventilation rate,” she says.</p> <h4><strong>IAQ accessibility</strong></h4> <p>As participants spoke about different mechanisms for improving indoor air quality – including updating building codes, regulations and standards – one suggestion that received strong support was treating IAQ as an accessibility and inclusion issue. Just as public buildings these days must be accessible for people with impaired mobility, they should be accessible to people with impaired immunity or other conditions that predispose them to medical issues such as infections, allergies or asthma.</p> <p>And QUT’s Professor Lidia Morawska, leading the event, argued that this kind of accessibility should be a given, without the need for publicly visible indicators.</p> <p>“We don’t go into a building and look for sensors showing that the water is suitable for drinking,” she said. “We don’t go into a restaurant and ask for a certificate to show that the food is fit for consumption. We assume these things are true.</p> <p>“Equally, we should be able to enter a building and know that the air is safe to breathe.”</p> <p>More information about THRIVE, including coming events, is available at <a href="https://aus01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fthriveiaq.com%2F&data=05%7C02%7Cmark.vender%40airah.org.au%7C8ea48bbc30a649060a2808dc69e442e0%7Cb82441acf5e9404baee01f1f04aed2eb%7C0%7C0%7C638501676318932112%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=%2F4BYfrxmWqW%2FSgNQ6iWqufJW%2Feba01kFGCOQMNqTcVs%3D&reserved=0">the research centre website</a>.</p><p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.hvacrnews.com.au/news/iaq-and-energy-getting-the-balance-right/">IAQ and energy – getting the balance right</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.hvacrnews.com.au">HVAC&R News</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://www.hvacrnews.com.au/news/iaq-and-energy-getting-the-balance-right/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">18088</post-id> </item> <item> <title>Abstract submissions open for Building Simulation 2025</title> <link>https://www.hvacrnews.com.au/events_and_conferences/abstract-submissions-open-for-building-simulation-2025/</link> <comments>https://www.hvacrnews.com.au/events_and_conferences/abstract-submissions-open-for-building-simulation-2025/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Matt Dillon]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Thu, 02 May 2024 01:29:53 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Events and conferences]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Building simulation]]></category> <category><![CDATA[climate change]]></category> <category><![CDATA[energy efficiency]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Industry transformation]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Smart cities]]></category> <category><![CDATA[sustainability]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Urban planning]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.hvacrnews.com.au/?p=18082</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>The organising committee for the Building Simulation Conference 2025 is calling for abstracts. Slated for August 24–27 next year in Brisbane, Building Simulation 2025 will explore how building performance simulation can contribute to a climate-positive future via industry and academic transformation. “We are looking for papers and presentations that explore the issue from many different […]</p><p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.hvacrnews.com.au/events_and_conferences/abstract-submissions-open-for-building-simulation-2025/">Abstract submissions open for Building Simulation 2025</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.hvacrnews.com.au">HVAC&R News</a>.</p>]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>The organising committee for the Building Simulation Conference 2025 is calling for abstracts.</p> <p>Slated for August 24–27 next year in Brisbane, Building Simulation 2025 will explore how building performance simulation can contribute to a climate-positive future via industry and academic transformation.</p> <p>“We are looking for papers and presentations that explore the issue from many different angles, from the big-picture city-scale analysis and solutions, to individual building component simulation and optimisation,” says the conference organising committee.</p> <p>“We want to know how practitioners are using building performance simulation in both practice and academia to take climate action, to reduce carbon emissions, to create healthy and comfortable spaces for people, to enable a just energy transition, to push policy reform, and beyond.”</p> <p>Abstracts are now being accepted on a range of topics:</p> <ul><li>Climate change mitigation and adaptation</li><li>Energy efficiency and sustainability</li><li>Innovative design exploration and industry transformation</li><li>Urban planning and smart cities</li><li>Indoor environmental quality (IEQ)</li></ul> <p>The <a href="https://bs2025.org/">BS2025 website</a> has additional information regarding themes, key dates, and a link to the <a href="https://www.conftool.pro/bs2025/index.php?page=login">abstract submission form</a>.</p> <p>For more info, email <a href="mailto:info@bs2025.org">info@bs2025.org</a></p><p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.hvacrnews.com.au/events_and_conferences/abstract-submissions-open-for-building-simulation-2025/">Abstract submissions open for Building Simulation 2025</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.hvacrnews.com.au">HVAC&R News</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://www.hvacrnews.com.au/events_and_conferences/abstract-submissions-open-for-building-simulation-2025/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">18082</post-id> </item> <item> <title>AIRAH announces date for Refcon25</title> <link>https://www.hvacrnews.com.au/events_and_conferences/airah-announces-date-for-refcon25/</link> <comments>https://www.hvacrnews.com.au/events_and_conferences/airah-announces-date-for-refcon25/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Nick Johns-Wickberg]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Wed, 01 May 2024 06:37:37 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Events and conferences]]></category> <category><![CDATA[AIRAH]]></category> <category><![CDATA[AIRAH Refrigeration Conference]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Melbourne]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Refcon25]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.hvacrnews.com.au/?p=18076</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>The 2025 AIRAH Refrigeration Conference (Refcon25) will take place on Monday March 24, 2025, in Melbourne, with registrations opening soon.</p><p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.hvacrnews.com.au/events_and_conferences/airah-announces-date-for-refcon25/">AIRAH announces date for Refcon25</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.hvacrnews.com.au">HVAC&R News</a>.</p>]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>The <a href="https://airah.org.au/refcon" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">2025 AIRAH Refrigeration Conference</a> (Refcon25) will take place on Monday March 24, 2025, in Melbourne, with registrations opening soon. </p> <p>The conference will bring together leading international and local experts, practitioners, and stakeholders from around the globe to explore the latest developments, trends, and challenges shaping the refrigeration industry.</p> <p>Refcon25 is designed for HVAC&R professionals, researchers, technicians, educators, students, policymakers, and anyone passionate about advancing refrigeration technology and its applications. Whether you’re a seasoned industry veteran or a newcomer to the field, there’s something for everyone.</p> <h4>What to expect</h4> <p>Refcon25 will run in two concurrent streams: the conference presentation stream, which will cater to refrigeration engineers and designers, and the technical sessions stream, which will offer practical learning for technicians and mechanics who work in the field.</p> <p>“We’ve divided the conference into these two streams to offer all refrigeration professionals sessions that will be useful in their everyday work,” says AIRAH Conference and Events Manager Marie Karekla. “Refcon25 is a fantastic opportunity for people from all refrigeration specialties to come together and gain new perspectives, but also to access knowledge and share ideas that will serve them well professionally.”</p> <p>The conference will cover the following topics:</p> <ul><li>Ammonia</li><li>Global trends</li><li>Future trends</li><li>Data centres</li><li>Glycol systems</li><li>Technological innovation</li><li>Environmental responsibility</li><li>Regulatory landscape</li><li>Sustainable practices</li><li>Flammable refrigerants</li><li>Adaptation and resilience</li><li>Retrofits</li><li>New refrigerants and continuing battles.</li></ul> <p>There will be a welcome dinner for attendees on Sunday March 23, the night before the conference. The dinner will offer attendees the chance to network, catch up, and share ideas.</p> <h4>Key dates</h4> <p>While AIRAH has yet to announce the venue for Refcon25, the Institute has published several key dates:</p> <ul><li>October 4, 2024: Abstract submissions close</li><li>November 8, 2024: Notification of abstract acceptance</li><li>February 17, 2025: Early-bird registration ends</li><li>February 28, 2025: Speaker PowerPoints due</li><li>March 23, 2025: Welcome dinner</li><li>March 24, 2025: AIRAH Refrigeration Conference.</li></ul><p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.hvacrnews.com.au/events_and_conferences/airah-announces-date-for-refcon25/">AIRAH announces date for Refcon25</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.hvacrnews.com.au">HVAC&R News</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://www.hvacrnews.com.au/events_and_conferences/airah-announces-date-for-refcon25/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">18076</post-id> </item> </channel></rss> If you would like to create a banner that links to this page (i.e. this validation result), do the following:
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