Gauge Refrigeration Management

21/10/2024

Relevant and engaging training is the backbone of a strong culture. It’s not just a one-and-done thing—regular refreshers ensure everyone stays on point, skilled, and ready for whatever comes their way. 💪

How often does your team refresh their skills? And how do you prefer to deliver it—eLearning, virtual sessions, or good old face-to-face training?

What’s working best for your team?

Drop your thoughts below! 👇

🛡️

15/10/2024

When managing emissions, choosing between a scrubber/dispersion tank and a simple vent stack isn’t just about preference—it’s about safety, compliance, and performance. Here’s a breakdown of the key considerations:

🔧 Active vs Passive
Scrubbers are active systems that need to be fully functional with pumps and fans. Certification and proper testing are essential.
Vent stacks are passive, relying on natural dispersion. But they must be highly elevated to prevent ground-level contamination

⚠️ Emissions
Scrubbers may not be 100% effective. What happens to the rest?
Dispersion tanks may only hold water, but potentially they may become toxic and corrosive, needing secondary containment and proper placards.
Have you considered Stationary Tank compliance certificates?

🔥 Temperature Matters
Absorption processes can hit 65-70°C—is your tank rated for this heat?
Don’t forget level indicators - are they sealed and protected?
Secure manhole covers, confined space register?
pH monitoring with alarms for leaks or PSV activations.

🛑 Emergency Disposal Plans & Restart Procedures
If there's a release, who moves the waste? How fast can it be cleared so the plant can restart?
Does Aqueous Ammonia need an ERP?
Without the absorption water available can you start the plant without this - is it a safety critical element?

🌡️ Weather & Environment Challenges
In cold areas, how will you prevent freezing?
Tanks are a breeding ground for bacteria—how will you manage this?

💡 Neutralization
Most tank volumes are designed for 10% concentration per hour released? For reference, floor cleaners are 0.1%. Just a ten percent solution will pack a punch!

Whether you opt for a scrubber or a vent stack, solid engineering, certifications, monitoring, and proper signage are non-negotiable. Safety and compliance are the foundation for seamless operations. Stay prepared, stay compliant! 👷‍♂️📋
hashtag hashtag hashtag

21/07/2023

Massive fines here

In 2017, ammonia runoff was spilled into a storm drain and entered a slough that is part of the Fraser River.

10/03/2023

Love it, this is nothing short of amazing. Hats off to Respects I mean Refspecs!

23/02/2023

There are plenty of well-paid, fascinating R717 technician roles available all over Australia - kiwis, please get in touch, and we can organise an introduction and explain the trade recognition process.

Working on a diverse range of applications, Nick’s role within Oomiak embodies of one of our core values, evolution – find out more about Nick’s story here!

03/02/2023

L.A Refrigeration & Air conditioning limited Calling All Refrigeration Engineers Have you been looking for a position in which you'll produce stunning res...

26/01/2023

Yet again we see a combination of training and poor LEO procedures at the root of these fatal incidents.

A combination of broken communication and staffing changes contributed to a deadly ammonia leak at an ice-making facility in Kamloops, B.C., last spring, an investigation has found.

22/01/2023

Team R717 – do yourself a favour and grab a Robust Alloy Vacuum Ejector - the ultimate solution for rough vacuuming Ammonia pressure equipment. With 1/2" BSPT-F connections and a rapid -80 kPa draw-down capability, this ejector can handle even the nastiest jobs. Plus, with no moving parts and the ability to be disassembled for cleaning, maintenance is a breeze. Don't waste money on costly vacuum pump repairs and replacements - invest in the Alloy Vacuum Ejector and save thousands in the long run. Don't miss out on this must-have tool - order yours now for only $304.35 +GST! -- Get in while stocks last!

Robust Alloy Vacuum Ejector. Used for rough vacuuming of Ammonia pressure equipment. - 1/2" BSPT- F connections. - Capable of -80 kPa (127 cfm, 7 bar air supply) - No moving parts. - Can be disassembled for cleaning.

30/12/2022

At Gauge Refrigeration Management Ltd, we are committed to promoting a natural and sustainable future for Aotearoa, our vision is to play a pivotal role in the reduction of Refrigerant incidents on a global scale. As part of this commitment, we believe in delivering knowledge, skills, and inspiration to foster a positive Health, Safety, and Environmental culture among New Zealand workers.

Our online framework aims to present information on Natural Refrigerant safety in a clear and engaging way, catering to a diverse audience.

If you prefer to do your learning at smoko, waiting for pump outs, on the couch, or in the...bathroom you can download the talent LMS app on your mobile device.

26/12/2022

Safely managing lubricant within an Ammonia Refrigeration system is one of the most fundamental activities; yet, also one of the most dangerous - often a live Line and Equipment Opening process.

By performing regular condition-based maintenance on oil rectifiers, you can improve the performance, efficiency, and reliability of the plant. However, it is essential to be cautious and follow proper safety protocols, as any mistakes can have serious consequences.

At Gauge Refrigeration, our primary objective is to play a pivotal role in the reduction of Ammonia incidents on a global scale; therefore, we aim to make our critical course modules accessable to everyone.

Welcome to the Natural Refrigerant Training eLearning portal

24/12/2022

From all of us at Gauge Refrigeration Management Ltd, we wish you a happy and safe holiday season. Thank you for choosing us as your go-to source for all things NH3! Here's to another year of success and happiness, and to many more Christmases to come.

15/12/2022

https://ammonia.co.nz/

I was asked today by one of my clients to list all the benefits of training their workers to help the sale to his manager. Sadly the manager needed persuading and didn't grasp the concept already.

Improved safety:

By providing workers with training on how to safely handle hazardous substances, businesses can help prevent accidents and injuries. This can reduce the risk of harm to employees, as well as to the general public and the environment. By investing in training, companies can help ensure that workers are aware of the risks associated with hazardous substances and know how to properly handle them to avoid accidents and injuries.

Enhanced compliance:

Proper training can help ensure that employees are aware of and adhere to relevant regulations and guidelines for handling hazardous substances. This can help businesses avoid fines and other penalties for non-compliance, as well as protect them from legal action in the event of an accident or injury. By providing training and ensuring that employees understand and follow the appropriate regulations and guidelines, businesses can demonstrate their commitment to safety and compliance.

Increased efficiency:

Trained workers are likely to be more efficient and effective in their tasks, which can help improve overall productivity. By providing training, businesses can help ensure that employees have the knowledge and skills they need to effectively and efficiently handle hazardous substances. This can help reduce the amount of time and resources needed to complete tasks involving hazardous substances, leading to improved efficiency and productivity.

Enhanced confidence:

Providing training can help build confidence among workers, which can lead to improved morale and job satisfaction. When employees feel confident in their ability to handle hazardous substances safely, they are more likely to be engaged and motivated in their work. This can lead to better job performance and a more positive work environment.

Reduced liability:

By providing training and ensuring that employees are knowledgeable about how to handle hazardous substances safely, businesses can help reduce their liability and risk of legal action in the event of an accident or injury. When employees are properly trained, they are less likely to make mistakes that could lead to accidents or injuries. This can help protect businesses from legal action and potential financial losses.

Improved reputation:

A commitment to training and safety can enhance a business's reputation and help it attract and retain employees and customers. By demonstrating a commitment to safety and providing training to employees, businesses can show that they value the well-being of their employees and the community. This can help attract and retain customers, as well as attract and retain top talent. A strong reputation for safety and training can be a valuable asset for businesses.

New Zealand's leading natural Refrigerant Training and Industrial Refrigeration Process Safety Management experts.