Teaching R-410A Takes Planning

Despite all the fuss over R-410A, Winnipeg contractor and RSES regional director Brian Baker and others were concerned over what they perceived as a lack of training being offered about the refrigerant — so they decided to do something about it well in advance of the cooling season. The planners first got informal feedback on the idea for a day-long seminar. Then RSES Winnipeg Chapter members took part in a three-hour session to fine-tune the idea.

Then the promotions started, including faxes and e-mails to more than 500 addressees. Supply houses and manufacturers were encouraged to disperse the information through their mailing lists. The planners also tied their efforts into the recent publication of the 100-page book Universal R-410A Safety and Training, published by ESCO Press. Speakers from the local vocational school Red River College, as well as from Trane, were asked to gear their presentations to the general outline of the book. This allowed the promoters to provide a detailed listing of topics to be covered at the seminar.

Those involved in the planning knew that a few flyers at supply houses would not be enough, so reminder announcements went out on a regular basis.

The planners were hoping for about 30 attendees. At the close of registration, some 60 had signed up.

Those who registered were sent e-mail reminders as the day neared. Phone calls were made in the final days. Some last-minute scheduling conflicts and the sub-zero weather caused some cancellations, but 50 were on hand for the seminar, including two who had driven four hours to attend.

There are several points that any group wanting to provide education should consider: