• recover or recycle waste freon on the premises using EPA-approved recycling/recovery equipment with a certified operator
  
• keep records of the dates and quantities of freon recovered and recycled
  
• make sure technicians obtain EPA-approved training
  
• become aware of federal regulations governing the use of "Alternative" refrigerants. In 1994, EPA established the Significant New Alternatives Policy (SNAP) Program to review alternatives to ozone-depleting substances like CFC-12
  
• manage filters from freon recovery equipment as a hazardous waste.

• evaporate or vent freon to the atmosphere
  
• perform service on motor vehicle air conditioners without the proper refrigerant recover/recycling equipment
  
• recharge a vehicle's system with recovered freon that has not been recycled on site or by a refrigerant reclamation facility

If freon is improperly handled during the servicing of car or truck air conditioners, it could be released into the atmosphere, contributing to ozone loss. The refrigerant must be recovered by a qualified technician. Effective July 1, 1992, new federal laws made it illegal to knowingly release refrigerants such as freon into the atmosphere during the repair, servicing, maintenance, or disposal of refrigeration and air conditioning equipment.

For more information concerning the proper handling of freon, contact the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, Bureau of Solid and Hazardous Waste (http://www.dep.state.fl.us/waste/categories/shw/default.htm) or the Florida Center for Solid and Hazardous Waste Management (http://floridacenter.org). This information is offered only as guidance. Specific requirements may vary with individual processes and/or businesses.