IMI Level 3 Technical Specialist in Automotive Refrigerant Handling (EC842-2006) (Award)

This qualification is ideal for automotive technicians and mobile air conditioning (MAC) professionals who work with motor cars and car-derived vans and need to legally handle refrigerants under EU F-gas regulations. It’s particularly suited to:

• Experienced technicians seeking compliance with Commission Regulation EC 842/2006.
• Individuals who have previously completed in-house or formal air conditioning training.
• Professionals aiming to continue working legally with fluorinated greenhouse gases after the regulatory deadline.

Achieving this award ensures technicians meet DEFRA-approved standards, enabling them to safely and legally recover refrigerants, protect the environment, and maintain industry best practices.

The selection criteria for entry should take into account each applicant’s existing academic/vocational qualifications and experience. Individuals should already have a basic knowledge of the operation of Air Conditioning Systems containing fluorinated greenhouse gases in motor cars (and car derived vans), the environmental impact of fluorinated greenhouse gas refrigerants, the corresponding environmental regulations, and procedures for environment friendly recovery of fluorinated greenhouse gases.

By completing this qualification, you will gain:

• A thorough understanding of EU F-gas regulations and their application in automotive settings.
• Practical skills in safe refrigerant handling, including:
  • Connecting/disconnecting systems
  • Operating recovery equipment
  • Handling refrigerant cylinders
• Knowledge of the environmental impact of fluorinated gases and how to recover them responsibly.
• The ability to pass both practical and online assessments, ensuring legal compliance and professional competence.

How the Course Is Delivered at Derby College

This qualification is delivered on-site at Derby College through a blend of classroom-based theory and hands-on practical training in the workshop.

Classroom Sessions

• Cover the legal framework, environmental impact, and technical knowledge of refrigerant handling.
• Prepare learners for the online multiple-choice assessment.
• Led by experienced instructors using up-to-date resources aligned with EU F-gas regulations.

Workshop-Based Training

• Takes place in a fully equipped automotive workshop.
• Focuses on practical skills such as:
  • Handling refrigerant cylinders
  • Connecting/disconnecting systems
  • Operating recovery equipment
• Delivered in a realistic working environment to simulate industry conditions.

All students must arrive on site with their own personal protective clothing (overalls and safety boots).

Assessment is split into two key components:

Practical Assessment – You’ll demonstrate safe refrigerant handling procedures, including connecting/disconnecting systems, operating recovery equipment, and handling cylinders. This must be completed in a controlled workshop environment and assessed by an IMI-approved assessor.

Online Assessment – A timed, multiple-choice test (20 questions, 40 minutes) designed to confirm your understanding of F-gas regulations and refrigerant handling. A minimum pass mark of 60% is required, with instant results and re-sit options available after 48 hours.

After completing the Level 3 Award in Automotive Refrigerant Handling, learners can progress to a range of advanced automotive qualifications at Derby College Group (DCG), including:

• Level 3 Diploma in Light Vehicle Maintenance and Repair – ideal for those seeking broader technical expertise across vehicle systems.
• Apprenticeships such as:
  • Motor Vehicle Service and Maintenance Technician (Light Vehicle) – Level 3
  • Auto-care Technician – Level 2
• Part-time upskilling courses in areas like:
  • Hybrid and Electric Vehicle Maintenance

For more information contact Derby College on 0800 0280289 or enquiries@derby-college.ac.uk