In anticipation of the implementation of AHRI Guideline N, “Assignment of Refrigerant Container Colors” to one uniform paint color, Airgas Refrigerants is beginning its transition now.
Guideline N, announced mid-2016, stipulated that all refrigerant containers use one uniform paint color, light gray-green RAL 7044. This means that all existing individually assigned container paint colors will be transitioned to this one color by 2020.
Airgas will begin transitioning cylinders departing from its facilities to this color during the first quarter of 2017.
Containers that have transitioned to the uniform color will bear labels and markings that identify the refrigerants contained in them. Flammable refrigerants will have a red band on their tops.
The U.S. Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Title 49 for hazmat transportation regulations and CFR Title 29 for occupational safety and health regulations, require that all hazardous material containers are properly labeled to clearly identify the contents.
AHRI will continue to assign individual PMS ink colors for printed materials only, including the product label on containers and container cartons.