The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has issued a warning to appliance repair technicians, stating that those who do not acquire the necessary certification to work on refrigerators will be prohibited from practicing.
Joseph Amankwa Baffoe, Director of Ozone Layer and Climate Change at the EPA, highlighted the dangers of untrained technicians, noting that improper handling of refrigerants like Chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) gases could lead to the depletion of the ozone layer, a critical shield against harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation.
Speaking after an educational engagement with students in the Eastern Region, Mr. Baffoe underscored the importance of raising awareness about ozone layer depletion.
He emphasized the need for school children to understand environmental issues, saying, “We want students to understand what the ozone layer is, what depletes it, and the consequences, so they can be part of the solution as they grow.”
In line with global efforts under the Montreal Protocol, Ghana is committed to phasing out ozone-depleting substances. As part of these efforts, Mr. Baffoe encouraged refrigeration technicians to enroll in the EPA’s free training program to obtain certification. He warned that those who fail to comply will face penalties, including fines or possible arrest.
“We want technicians to take advantage of this training,” he said. “This certification serves as a license proving that they have the necessary skills to work. Without it, they will not be allowed to operate in this field.”
The EPA’s initiative aims to reduce harmful emissions from refrigerators and air conditioners, which contribute significantly to the depletion of the ozone layer.
