When released into the atmosphere, refrigerant can harm the environment. Refrigerant-containing equipment (e.g., chillers, air conditioners, and drinking fountains) must be managed in accordance with Postal Service™ and regulatory requirements.
Follow these requirements to ensure compliance with environmental regulations:
n Never vent or otherwise release any refrigerant into the atmosphere for any reason.
n Investigate refrigerant leaks and repair leaking equipment immediately.
n Store refrigerant storage cylinders in a secure location and ensure they are labeled.
n Dispose of refrigerant, refrigerant-containing equipment, and cylinders properly.
n Maintain required documentation, including maintenance and repair records, service logs, and leak rate calculations.
Note: As of January 2026, recordkeeping and annual leak rate (ALR) testing and repair are now required for all refrigerant-containing units with a capacity of 15 or more pounds. The threshold has been lowered from 50 to 15 pounds. Track the amount of refrigerant added and removed from each unit during service or repair to ensure compliance.
Additionally, individuals performing maintenance on refrigerant-containing equipment must complete U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) training and certification.
Training, handling, recordkeeping, and disposal requirements apply to both Postal Service employees and contractors performing maintenance on USPS® equipment.
For more information about refrigerant management:
n Review the Refrigerant Management Environmental Compliance Bulletin/Standard Work Instruction at blue.usps.gov/sustainability/environmental/_pdf/ecb-refrigerant-management.pdf.
n Contact your USPS Environmental Specialist at blue.usps.gov/sustainability/regional-environmental-compliance-all.htm.
— Environmental Affairs and
Corporate Sustainability, 3-5-26
