Setting Up Equipment Logbooks & Databases - Brief

This brief summarizes Poland’s experience in setting up and managing logbooks for refrigeration, air conditioning and heat pump (RACHP) systems and highlights the effectiveness of the Central Register of Operators (CRO), a nationwide electronic database. The CRO requires system operators to keep detailed electronic records of system identification, refrigerant type and quantity, maintenance activities and technician certifications. This enables reliable monitoring of HCFC and HFC use and supports compliance with national and international regulations. The system has led to a significant reduction in refrigerant leakage, with F-gas leakage from RACHP appliances falling from 12% in 2016 to 3% in 2019, reducing emissions and maintenance requirements. The brief also presents examples from countries such as Italy, Estonia and Turkey, where similar electronic databases and mandatory logbooks facilitate enforcement, data collection and emissions reduction.