THE trade in counterfeit refrigerants is a growing problem and affects every region of the world, according to DuPont, the refrigerant manufacturer urging members of the air conditioning and refrigeration industry to increase their awareness of and action against counterfeit refrigerant activity.
'This problem is real and it is growing, and the impact can include significant injury and tragic loss of life,' said Greg Rubin, global business manager, DuPont Refrigerants. 'Counterfeit refrigerants also have the potential for significant business impact, especially in emerging regions.'

DuPont continued its efforts to combat counterfeit activity last year by removing internet store-front listings of counterfeit refrigerants, conducting investigations, training customs officials, assisting law enforcement in conducting raids and seizure of refrigerant goods in multiple regions, and establishing product identification methods and technologies of DuPont branded refrigerants.

'We've seen evidence of counterfeiting in virtually every region and across multiple product lines,' said Rubin. 'The best defence against the threat of counterfeit refrigerants is to buy refrigerant from a reputable, known supplier.'