TSSA Refrigeration Regulations Explained for Ontario businesses

The Technical Standards and Safety Authority (TSSA) enforces strict regulations on refrigeration systems across Ontario to ensure public safety and environmental protection. Whether you're running a grocery store, arena, food processing facility, or commercial HVAC operation, understanding TSSA refrigeration regulations is essential to avoid penalties, reduce risk, and operate legally.

This article outlines everything you need to know about TSSA refrigeration regulations—from system definitions and registration to licensing, inspections, and compliance obligations.

Key takeaways

• TSSA regulates refrigeration systems under Ontario’s Technical Standards and Safety Act.
• Systems over 3 kW or using pressurized refrigerants are generally regulated.
• Design registration, licensed installation, and periodic inspections are required.
• Non-compliance can lead to fines, shutdowns, and legal liability.
• GA Enns Industrial offers certified refrigeration operators to ensure TSSA compliance across Ontario.

What is the TSSA?

The Technical Standards and Safety Authority (TSSA) is the agency responsible for enforcing technical safety laws and standards in Ontario. Operating under the Technical Standards and Safety Act, the TSSA regulates equipment and operations in sectors that involve elevated risk to public safety due to pressure, flammable materials, or mechanical complexity.

The TSSA oversees the following key sectors:

• Boilers and pressure vessels
• Fuels and gas appliances (natural gas, propane, oil)
• Elevating devices such as elevators and escalators
• Amusement rides and ski lifts
• Refrigeration and air conditioning systems

Why refrigeration systems are regulated

Refrigeration systems fall under the TSSA’s authority because they frequently:

• Operate under high pressure, increasing the risk of mechanical failure
• Use volatile or hazardous refrigerants like ammonia, CO₂, or hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs)
• Involve complex mechanical components that must meet rigorous engineering and safety standards

The TSSA’s mandate is to prevent accidents such as explosions, fires, ammonia leaks and other toxic leaks, and equipment malfunctions by enforcing design, installation, maintenance, and operational standards. This protects not only the safety of workers and the public but also the environment and infrastructure.

If your business operates or installs refrigeration equipment in Ontario, compliance with TSSA regulations isn’t optional—it’s a legal requirement.

What qualifies as a regulated refrigeration system under TSSA rules

A refrigeration system is regulated by the TSSA if it meets the following criteria:

• Uses a refrigerant operating under pressure (e.g., ammonia, CO₂, R-134a, R-410A)
• Has a total capacity of 3 kW (0.85 tons) or more
• Contains pressure-retaining components such as vessels, compressors, evaporators, or condensers

Examples of TSSA-regulated refrigeration systems:

• Industrial cold storage systems
• Ice rink refrigeration plants using ammonia
• Commercial chillers in high-rise buildings
• Supermarket walk-in freezers using HFC refrigerants

If your system meets these criteria, it must comply with Ontario Regulation 220/01 and CSA B52 standards.

TSSA refrigeration system registration and approval process

Before installing or operating a regulated system, the design must be registered with the TSSA. This includes the submission of technical documentation such as:

• System schematics and layout
• Mechanical drawings with pressure ratings
• Manufacturer's Data Reports (MDRs)
• Component specifications and certifications

Approved systems are issued a Canadian Registration Number (CRN) for pressure vessels and fittings. All pressure-retaining equipment in the system must have a valid CRN before installation.

TSSA installation and inspection requirements for refrigeration systems

TSSA regulations require that refrigeration systems be installed by licensed contractors who understand the applicable codes. The following steps are part of the process:

1. Installation by a certified technician or contractor
2. Pressure and leak testing of the system
3. TSSA inspection to verify compliance with design and safety standards
4. Commissioning and certification of the system

The TSSA may also conduct spot inspections or request documentation audits during or after installation.

TSSA licensing and trade certification requirements

To work on regulated refrigeration systems in Ontario, individuals must hold valid trade certifications and, in some cases, additional licenses. These may include:

• 313A or 313D Certificate of Qualification (Refrigeration and Air Conditioning)
• Gas Technician License (G1, G2, G3) for fuel-burning equipment
• Pressure welder certification for welding on vessels or piping

All tradespeople must follow Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA) regulations, especially when working with dangerous refrigerants or high-pressure equipment.

TSSA maintenance and operation obligations for refrigeration system owners

Once a refrigeration system is in service, the owner or operator is legally responsible for its safe operation and ongoing compliance. This includes:

• Keeping accurate maintenance logs and inspection records
• Ensuring annual testing of safety controls (e.g., pressure relief valves)
• Hiring licensed professionals for repairs or modifications
• Reporting incidents or refrigerant leaks to the TSSA as required

Failure to fulfill these obligations can result in enforcement actions, including shutdown orders or fines.

TSSA enforcement, penalties, and risks of non-compliance

The TSSA enforces Ontario’s technical safety laws through inspections, investigations, and penalties. Common violations include:

• Operating an unregistered system
• Using non-CRN-approved equipment
• Hiring unlicensed workers for regulated work
• Not reporting safety incidents or refrigerant leaks

Possible consequences:

• Monetary fines under the Provincial Offences Act
• Equipment shutdowns or business interruptions
• Legal liability in the event of injury or environmental harm

Being proactive about compliance is the best way to avoid these risks.

Upcoming changes to TSSA refrigeration regulations and environmental considerations

While TSSA regulations focus on pressure and mechanical safety, there are growing environmental regulations impacting refrigerant use:

• Federal bans on high-GWP refrigerants (HFCs) are being phased in
• New refrigerants like CO₂, ammonia, and hydrocarbons require special safety measures
• CSA B52 is regularly updated, and the TSSA typically adopts these changes

Staying current with both safety and environmental standards is key to future-proofing your system.

TSSA resources and support for refrigeration professionals and building owners

If you’re unsure whether your refrigeration system is regulated—or how to comply—the following resources can help:

• TSSA official website: Application forms, technical guidelines, CRN requirements
• CSA B52 Mechanical Refrigeration Code: Current safety design standards
• Skilled Trades Ontario: Licensing information for refrigeration and HVAC trades
• HRAI and ASHRAE: Industry associations offering training and compliance resources

You can also consult a licensed professional engineer (P.Eng.) or certified refrigeration contractor for expert support.

Comply with TSSA regulations with certified Refrigeration Operator Coverage in Ontario

TSSA compliance goes beyond equipment, it requires licensed, qualified operators to manage and monitor industrial refrigeration systems daily. That’s where Enns Industrial can help.

Refrigeration Operator Services in Toronto and across the GTA

GA Enns Industrial provides certified Class A and Class B refrigeration operators, along with 2nd, 3rd, and 4th Class Operating Engineers to help your facility meet TSSA requirements. Our operators ensure:

• 24/7 monitoring and emergency support
• Daily inspections and preventative maintenance
• Full compliance with all TSSA reporting and documentation standards
• Safe, efficient, and continuous system operation

Whether you're running an ice rink, dairy plant, food warehouse, or pharmaceutical facility, Enns delivers the oversight you need to stay compliant.

Why partner with Enns Industrial:

• Avoid fines and shutdowns with expert regulatory management
• Protect your assets and staff with certified operator oversight
• Minimize downtime and maximize system reliability
• Get support across Ontario—Toronto, Guelph, London, Mississauga, and more

�Call 647-643-4110 for emergency support or to book a consultation.

Or visit: Enns Industrial Refrigeration to learn more about our Refrigeration Operator Coverage services in Ontario.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about TSSA refrigeration regulations in Ontario

Which refrigeration systems require TSSA registration?‍

Any system with a total capacity of 3 kW or more and containing pressurized refrigerants falls under TSSA regulation.

Do all components in a system need a CRN?‍

Only pressure-retaining components, such as vessels, heat exchangers, and piping assemblies, require a valid CRN.

Can I perform repairs on my refrigeration system without a license?‍

No. Repairs on regulated systems must be performed by licensed and certified professionals in compliance with TSSA requirements.

How often are TSSA inspections required?‍

Inspections are typically required at installation and after major modifications. Owners must also maintain their own inspection and maintenance records.

Is the TSSA phasing out certain refrigerants?‍

While refrigerant phase-outs are federally regulated, the TSSA enforces the safety side. Systems using newer or flammable refrigerants must still comply with safety codes.