This is not the latest approved version of this apprenticeship. View the latest version
This apprenticeship is in revision
Proposal approved
Occupational standard approved
End-point assessment plan approved
Funding approved
This apprenticeship standard will be reviewed after three years.
This occupation is found in the industrial and commercial contracting sector, providing installation, service and maintenance activities.
The broad purpose of this occupation is the installation of components, routine maintenance, reactive service, commissioning and decommissioning of vapour compression systems, as found in refrigeration, air conditioning and heat pump systems. This is a specialist role involving planning, preparing and safely carrying out activities in process, product and space cooling. Work is carried out in a variety of applications essential for key UK business activities such as food production, product distribution, retail storage and display, transport and office climate control, manufacturing processes (e.g. petrochemical, pharmaceutical), IT/data centres and medical/healthcare services temperature and environmental control. Knowledge must be transferrable between any of the core activities of refrigeration, air conditioning or heat pumps.
In their daily work, an employee in this occupation interacts with clients and end users, as well as liaising directly with other trades. Technicians will be required to travel to various locations to carry out their work at a wide variety of commercial and industrial premises depending on their client base.
An employee in this occupation will be responsible for working autonomously without immediate supervision, typically reporting to a service or project manager who is not usually on the site premises. They usually work as part of a team liaising with other technical trades.
| Duty | KSBs |
|---|---|
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Duty 1 Plans tasks, taking into account technical diagrams, product manuals and refrigerant selection in accordance with standards, legislation and codes. |
K1 K2 K3 K4 K5 K6 K7 K8 K9 K10 K11 K19 K20 K21 K24 K26 K28 K30 |
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Duty 2 Carries out site specific risk assessment and prepares for tasks ensuringselection of appropriate tools, equipment, PPE. |
K1 K2 K3 K4 K5 K6 K7 K8 K9 K10 K11 K19 K20 K21 K24 K26 K27 K28 K30 |
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Duty 3 Carries out component installation tasks in relation to vapour compression systems with due regard to the safety of those in the vicinity and the environment including pipework, jointing, component fixing and connection. |
K1 K2 K3 K4 K5 K6 K7 K8 K9 K10 K11 K12 K19 K20 K21 K24 K27 K28 K30 |
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Duty 4 Charges system with refrigerant, minimising leakage. |
K1 K2 K3 K4 K5 K6 K7 K8 K9 K10 K11 K19 K20 K21 K24 K28 |
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Duty 5 Performs commissioning activities to ensure efficient functioning including system testing (pressure testing and tightness testing) and performance recording. |
K1 K2 K3 K4 K5 K6 K7 K8 K9 K10 K11 K13 K14 K19 K20 K21 K24 K26 K28 K29 K30 |
|
Duty 6 Completes system equipment documentation and hands over to customer. |
K1 K2 K3 K4 K5 K6 K7 K8 K9 K10 K11 K19 K20 K21 K22 K23 K24 K26 K27 K28 K29 K30 S1 S2 S3 S4 S5 S6 S11 S12 S13 S14 S15 S16 S17 S18 S19 S20 S21 |
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Duty 7 Carries out planned service, maintenance, regular leak checks and recording aswell as reactive fault finding and repair of existing systems. |
K1 K2 K3 K4 K5 K6 K7 K8 K9 K10 K11 K15 K16 K19 K20 K21 K24 K26 K27 K28 K29 K30 |
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Duty 8 Performs decommissioning activities including safe recovery, recycling or disposal of refrigerant and other waste products. |
K1 K2 K3 K4 K5 K6 K7 K8 K9 K10 K11 K17 K18 K19 K20 K21 K24 K26 K28 K29 |
|
Duty 9 Work with other trades or equipment operators on site and communicates relevant information about appropriate use and interaction with other services. |
K1 K2 K3 K4 K5 K6 K7 K8 K9 K10 K11 K19 K20 K21 K22 K23 K24 K25 K27 K28 K30 K31 |
K1: Health and Safety legislation and safe working practices applicable to working with pressure systems, electrical circuits and flammable substances.
Back to Duty
K2: Industry codes of practice and standards, legislation and sources of information and advice applicable to working with pressure systems, electrical circuits and flammable substances.
Back to Duty
K3: Environmental and sustainability regulations and guidance. Environmental hazards that can arise from vapour compression system operations. Environmental management systems standard. Environmental Protection Act. Environmental signage and notices. Types of pollution and control measures: noise, smells, spills, and waste.
Back to Duty
K4: Principles of thermodynamics, gas laws, psychrometrics and fluid flow.
Back to Duty
K5: Properties of refrigerant fluids and lubricants and their suitability for use in vapour compression systems. Applications and environmental impact.
Back to Duty
K6: Refrigerant use: handling techniques and risk mitigation.
Back to Duty
K7: Scientific and mechanical principles applicable to vapour compression systems.
Back to Duty
K8: Function and operation of refrigerant system components and how they interact in vapour compression systems.
Back to Duty
K9: Methods of maximising efficient vapour compression refrigerant system performance: heating and cooling loads, component selection and balancing techniques.
Back to Duty
K10: Methods of working with gases under pressure, including brazing work and pressure testing.
Back to Duty
K11: Vapour compression system operating parameters: adjustment techniques to mitigate direct and indirect carbon emissions.
Back to Duty
K12: Installation of electric circuits, pipe work: positioning, fixing, jointing and testing techniques.
Back to Duty
K13: Testing and commissioning practices and techniques applicable to vapour compression systems.
Back to Duty
K14: Testing and commissioning practices and techniques of electrical and electronic control systems applicable to vapour compression systems.
Back to Duty
K15: Routine and reactive service and maintenance practices and techniques applicable to vapour compression systems, including safe electrical isolation techniques.
Back to Duty
K16: Fault finding, diagnosis and rectification practices and techniques of electrical and electronic control systems applicable to vapour compression systems, including safe electrical isolation techniques.
Back to Duty
K17: Decommissioning techniques applicable to vapour compression systems, safe recovery and disposal of equipment, hazardous waste refrigerant transfer.
Back to Duty
K18: Decommissioning techniques of electrical and electronic control systems applicable to vapour compression systems.
Back to Duty
K19: Logbooks and diagrams applicable to refrigeration, air conditioning and heat pump maintenance activities.
Back to Duty
K20: Environmental technologies employed in the sector: heat recovery, low GWP refrigerants, heat gain, cooling load and energy use equipment.
Back to Duty
K21: Tools and equipment used in refrigeration, air conditioning and heat pump activities.
Back to Duty
K22: Collaborative working, relationship management with clients and stakeholders and mutual problem-solving techniques.
Back to Duty
K23: Communication techniques used with different audiences.
Back to Duty
K24: Well-being: mental and physical health considerations in self and others and how to access support. Impact of mental health on the construction industry.
Back to Duty
K25: Equity, diversity and inclusion requirements in the workplace.
Back to Duty
K26: Documentation methods and requirements - electronic and paper.
Back to Duty
K27: Project leadership techniques and principles.
Back to Duty
K28: Planning, prioritising, work scheduling, workflow and time management techniques.
Back to Duty
K29: Requirements for component warranty, legislation or regulation related to installation or other protections.
Back to Duty
K30: Information technology: Management Information Systems (MIS), spreadsheets, presentation, word processing, email, virtual communication and learning platforms. General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). Cyber security.
Back to Duty
K31: Ethical and unethical behaviour, and the routes for reporting if unethical behaviour is identified.
Back to Duty
S1: Comply with health and safety, regulations and standards. Apply safe systems of work, including carrying out a risk assessment.
Back to Duty
S2: Comply with environmental and sustainability regulations and standards for example prevention of refrigerant emissions, segregate resources for reuse and, recycling and disposal of waste.
Back to Duty
S3: Position, fix, joint and test, pipework and electrical circuits.
Back to Duty
S4: Test, charge with refrigerant and commission vapour compression systems.
Back to Duty
S5: Test and commission electrical and electronic control systems applicable to vapour compression systems.
Back to Duty
S6: Interpret information and data from log books and diagrams.
Back to Duty
S7: perform servicing, maintenance, fault diagnosis and rectification procedures and techniques on vapour compression systems including routine and reactive maintenance, installation of components and safe electrical isolation of supply.
Back to Duty
S8: Perform routine service, maintenance, fault diagnosis and rectification procedures and techniques on electrical and electrical control systems applicable to vapour compression systems including carrying out safe isolation procedures.
Back to Duty
S9: Decommission vapour compression systems, safe recovery and disposal of equipment, hazardous waste refrigerant transfer.
Back to Duty
S10: Decommission electrical and electronic systems applicable to vapour compression systems.
Back to Duty
S11: Adjust vapour compression system operating parameters to achieve reductions in carbon emissions.
Back to Duty
S12: Maximise performance of vapour compression systems by determining heating and cooling loads and selecting and balancing components and systems.
Back to Duty
S13: Retrofit and retro fill existing equipment to lower GWP refrigerants.
Back to Duty
S14: Mitigate risks of refrigerants including environmental, toxicity and flammability hazards.
Back to Duty
S15: Identify and use tools and equipment.
Back to Duty
S16: Communicate with others verbally and in writing.
Back to Duty
S17: Complete a customer handover.
Back to Duty
S18: Work collaboratively with clients or stakeholders to solve problems.
Back to Duty
S19: Apply project leadership techniques and principles.
Back to Duty
S20: Use information and digital technology and comply with GDPR and cyber security regulations.
Back to Duty
S21: Apply ethical principles.
Back to Duty
B1: Prioritise health and safety.
Back to Duty
B2: Act ethically.
Back to Duty
B3: Take responsibility for work.
Back to Duty
B4: Team focused to meet work goals, for example, work effectively with others, resolve issues in discussion with others.
Back to Duty
B5: Committed to continued professional development (CPD) to maintain and enhance competence in own area of practice.
Back to Duty
B6: Support an equitable, diverse and inclusive culture.
Back to Duty
Apprentices without level 2 English and maths will need to achieve this level prior to taking the End-Point Assessment. For those with an education, health and care plan or a legacy statement, the apprenticeship’s English and maths minimum requirement is Entry Level 3. A British Sign Language (BSL) qualification is an alternative to the English qualification for those whose primary language is BSL.
Level: 2
Level: 2
Level: 3
This standard aligns with the following professional recognition:
This document explains the requirements for end-point assessment (EPA) for the refrigeration air conditioning and heat pump engineering technician apprenticeship. End-point assessment organisations (EPAOs) must follow this when designing and delivering the EPA.
Refrigeration air conditioning and heat pump engineering technician apprentices, their employers and training providers should read this document.
A full-time refrigeration air conditioning and heat pump engineering technician apprentice typically spends 36 months on-programme. The apprentice must spend at least 12 months on-programme and complete the required amount of off-the-job training in line with the apprenticeship funding rules.
The EPA should be completed within an EPA period lasting typically 6 months.
The apprentice must complete their training and meet the gateway requirements before starting their EPA. The EPA will assess occupational competence.
An approved EPAO must conduct the EPA for this apprenticeship. Employers must select an approved EPAO from the apprenticeship provider and assessment register (APAR).
This EPA has 3 assessment methods.
The grades available for each assessment method are below.
Assessment method 1 - practical assessment with questions:
Assessment method 2 - interview underpinned by an apprenticeship development journal synopsis:
Assessment method 3 - multiple-choice test:
The result from each assessment method is combined to decide the overall apprenticeship grade. The following grades are available for the apprenticeship:
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On-programme - typically 36 months
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The apprentice must:
The qualifications required are: Award in F Gas and ODS Regulations Category 1 Level 2 Diploma in Refrigeration, Air Conditioning and Heat Pump Systems Level 3 Certificate or Diploma in Refrigeration, Air Conditioning and Heat Pump Systems
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|---|---|
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End-point assessment gateway
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The apprentice’s employer must be content that the apprentice is occupationally competent. The apprentice must:
For the interview underpinned by an apprenticeship development journal synopsis, the apprentice must submit an apprenticeship development journal synopsis.
Gateway evidence must be submitted to the EPAO along with any organisation specific policies and procedures requested by the EPAO. |
|
End-point assessment - typically 6 months
|
The grades available for each assessment method are below
Practical assessment with questions:
Interview underpinned by an apprenticeship development journal synopsis:
Multiple-choice test:
Overall EPA and apprenticeship can be graded:
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Professional recognition
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This apprenticeship aligns with:
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Re-sits and re-takes
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The EPA is taken in the EPA period. The EPA period starts when the EPAO confirms the gateway requirements have been met and is typically 6 months.
The EPAO should confirm the gateway requirements have been met and start the EPA as quickly as possible.
The apprentice’s employer must be content that the apprentice is occupationally competent. That is, they are deemed to be working at or above the level set out in the apprenticeship standard and ready to undertake the EPA. The employer may take advice from the apprentice's training provider, but the employer must make the decision. The apprentice will then enter the gateway.
The apprentice must meet the gateway requirements before starting their EPA.
They must:
Apprenticeship development journal synopsis requirements:
The apprentice must compile an apprenticeship development journal synopsis during the on-programme period of the apprenticeship. For the apprenticeship development journal synopsis, the apprentice will provide evidence from a selection of refrigeration, air conditioning or heat pump engineering jobs (typically 3), which the apprentice has undertaken during the on-programme period of the apprenticeship. The jobs provided for the apprenticeship development journal synopsis must contain evidence which relates to the KSBs mapped to this assessment method. The apprenticeship development journal synopsis will be provided to the independent assessor in advance of the interview taking place. Evidence must be mapped against the KSBs. Evidence may be used to demonstrate more than one KSB; a qualitative as opposed to quantitative approach is suggested.
Evidence may be provided from a variety of sources, including:
This is not a definitive list; other evidence sources can be included.
The apprenticeship development journal synopsis should not include reflective accounts or any methods of self-assessment. Any employer contributions should focus on direct observation of performance (for example, witness statements) rather than opinions. The evidence provided should be valid and attributable to the apprentice; the apprenticeship development journal synopsis should contain a statement from the employer and apprentice confirming this.
The EPAO should not assess the apprenticeship development journal synopsis directly as it underpins the interview. The independent assessor should review the apprenticeship development journal synopsis to prepare questions for the interview. They are not required to provide feedback after this review.
Gateway evidence must be submitted to the EPAO, along with any organisation specific policies and procedures requested by the EPAO.
The assessment methods can be delivered in any order.
The result of one assessment method does not need to be known before starting the next.
In a practical assessment with questions, an independent assessor observes the apprentice completing a task or series of tasks set by the EPAO. The EPAO decides where it takes place. The assessment environment must closely relate to the apprentice’s natural working environment. It gives the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate the KSBs mapped to this assessment method.
The practical assessment with questions must be structured to give the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate the KSBs mapped to this assessment method to the highest available grade.
An independent assessor must conduct and assess the practical assessment with questions.
Independent assessors can observe up to two apprentices at a time.
The EPAO must give an apprentice 2 weeks' notice of the . practical assessment with questions
The practical assessment with questions must take 14 hours.
The independent assessor can increase the time of the practical assessment with questions by up to 10%. This time is to allow the apprentice to complete a task or respond to a question if necessary.
The practical assessment with questions may take place in parts but must be completed over 2 working day. A working day is typically considered to be 7.5 hours long. The reason for this split is to allow for the completion of the practical tasks within the time specified.
The EPAO must manage invigilation of the apprentice during the assessment, to maintain security of the EPA, in line with their malpractice policy. This includes breaks and moving between locations.
The independent assessor must explain to the apprentice the format and timescales of the practical assessment with questions before it starts. This does not count towards the assessment time.
The independent assessor must observe the following during the practical assessment:
Component 1: Retrofit and retrofill changing of refrigerant in a working vapour compression system (10 hours over two days).
The apprentice must perform a change of refrigerant on a single vapour compression refrigeration system which operates two different evaporators in two separate insulated cold rooms with a minimum size of 6 metre cubed and both with an insulated door, operating at different temperatures: one at -18 degrees centigrade and the other at + 4 degrees centigrade.
The system should contain a high Global Warming Potential (GWP) refrigerant to be recovered. The system must contain, as a minimum:
The apprentice will, also, be observed:
Component 2: Fault-finding (4 hours)
Two electrical and two mechanical commonly found faults will be pre-installed on a pre-installed vapour compressions refrigeration system.
The apprentice will be observed:
The independent assessor will play the role of the client when the apprentice conducts the client hand over.
Whilst the practical assessment should be completed over two working days, the assessment can continue into 3 days should the apprentice require additional time, up to the maximum of 10%.
These activities provide the apprentice with the opportunity to demonstrate the KSBs mapped to this assessment method.
The independent assessor must ask questions.
The purpose of the questions is to explore aspects of the KSBs linked to the practical assessment and show depth of understanding.
Questioning can occur both during and after the practical assessment. The time for questioning is included in the overall assessment time. The independent assessor must ask at least 3 questions. To remain as unobtrusive as possible, the independent assessor should ask questions during natural stops between tasks and after completion of work rather than disrupting the apprentice’s flow. The independent assessor must use the questions from the EPAO’s question bank or create their own questions in line with the EPAO’s training.
The independent assessor can ask follow-up questions to clarify answers given by the apprentice. These questions are in addition to the above set number of questions for the practical assessment with questions.
The independent assessor must make the grading decision. The independent assessor must assess the practical assessment and responses to questions holistically when deciding the grade. 
The independent assessor must keep accurate records of the assessment. They must record:
The practical assessment with questions must take place in a simulated environment selected by the EPAO for example, the EPAO’s or employer’s premises. The simulated environment must relate to the apprentice’s natural work environment. Equipment and resources needed for the practical assessment with questions must be provided by the EPAO, who can liaise with the employer to provide these.
Additional venue requirements that must be in place include:
The venue must allow apprentices access to the following:
The EPAO must develop a purpose-built assessment specification and question bank. It is recommended this is done in consultation with employers of this occupation. The EPAO must maintain the security and confidentiality of EPA materials when consulting with employers. The assessment specification and question bank must be reviewed at least once a year to ensure they remain fit-for-purpose.
The assessment specification must be relevant to the occupation and demonstrate how to assess the KSBs mapped to this assessment method. The EPAO must ensure that questions are refined and developed to a high standard. The questions must be unpredictable. A question bank of sufficient size will support this. 
The EPAO must ensure that the apprentice has a different set of tasks and questions in the case of re-sits and retakes, to minimise predictability.
The EPAO must produce the following materials to support the practical assessment with questions:
The EPAO must ensure that the EPA materials are subject to quality assurance procedures including standardisation and moderation.
In the interview, an independent assessor asks the apprentice questions. It gives the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate the KSBs mapped to this assessment method.
The apprentice can refer to and illustrate their answers with evidence from their apprenticeship development journal synopsis.
The interview must be structured to give the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate the KSBs mapped to this assessment method to the highest available grade.
An independent assessor must conduct and assess the interview.
The purpose of the independent assessor's questions will be to assess related underpinning KSBs.
The EPAO must give an apprentice 2 weeks' notice of the interview.
The independent assessor must have at least 2 weeks to review the supporting documentation.
The apprentice must have access to their apprenticeship development journal synopsis during the interview.
The apprentice can refer to and illustrate their answers with evidence from their apprenticeship development journal synopsis however, the apprenticeship development journal synopsis is not directly assessed.
The interview must last for 50 minutes. The independent assessor can increase the time of the interview by up to 10%. This time is to allow the apprentice to respond to a question if necessary.
The independent assessor must ask at least 6 questions. The independent assessor must use the questions from the EPAO’s question bank. Follow-up questions are allowed where clarification is required.
The independent assessor must make the grading decision.
The independent assessor must keep accurate records of the assessment. They must record:
The interview must take place in a suitable venue selected by the EPAO for example, the EPAO’s or employer’s premises.
The interview can be conducted by video conferencing. The EPAO must have processes in place to verify the identity of the apprentice and ensure the apprentice is not being aided.
The interview should take place in a quiet room, free from distractions and influence.
The EPAO must develop a purpose-built assessment specification and question bank. It is recommended this is done in consultation with employers of this occupation. The EPAO must maintain the security and confidentiality of EPA materials when consulting with employers. The assessment specification and question bank must be reviewed at least once a year to ensure they remain fit-for-purpose.
The assessment specification must be relevant to the occupation and demonstrate how to assess the KSBs mapped to this assessment method. The EPAO must ensure that questions are refined and developed to a high standard. The questions must be unpredictable. A question bank of sufficient size will support this.
The EPAO must ensure that the apprentice has a different set of questions in the case of re-sits or re-takes.
The EPAO must produce the following materials to support the interview underpinned by an apprenticeship development journal synopsis:
The EPAO must ensure that the EPA materials are subject to quality assurance procedures including standardisation and moderation.
In the multiple-choice test, the apprentice answers questions in a controlled and invigilated environment. It gives the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate the knowledge mapped to this assessment method.
The multiple-choice test must be structured to give the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate the knowledge mapped to this assessment method to the highest available grade.
The test must be computer based.
The test will consist of 50 multiple-choice questions.
Multiple-choice questions must have four options, including one correct answer.
The apprentice must be given at least 2 weeks’ notice of the date and time of the test.
The apprentice must have 100 minutes to complete the test.
The test is closed book which means that the apprentice cannot refer to reference books or materials whilst taking the test.
The test must be taken in the presence of an invigilator who is the responsibility of the EPAO. The EPAO must have an invigilation policy setting out how the test must be conducted. It must state the ratio of apprentices to invigilators for the setting and allow the test to take place in a secure way.
The EPAO must verify the apprentice’s identity and ensure invigilation of the apprentice for example, with 360-degree cameras and screen sharing facilities.
The EPAO is responsible for the security of the test including the arrangements for on-line testing. The EPAO must ensure that their security arrangements maintain the validity and reliability of the test.
The test must be marked by an independent assessor or marker employed by the EPAO. They must follow a marking scheme produced by the EPAO. Marking by computer is allowed where question types support this.
A correct answer gets 1 mark.
Any incorrect or missing answers get zero marks.
The EPAO is responsible for overseeing the marking of the test.
The apprentice must take the test in a suitably controlled and invigilated environment that is a quiet room, free from distractions and influence. The EPAO must check the venue is suitable.
The test could take place remotely if the appropriate technology and systems are in place to prevent malpractice.
Question and resource development
The EPAO must develop a purpose-built assessment specification and question bank. It is recommended this is done in consultation with employers of this occupation. The EPAO
should maintain the security and confidentiality of EPA materials when consulting with employers. The assessment specification and question bank must be reviewed at least once a year to ensure they remain fit-for-purpose.    
The assessment specification must be relevant to the occupation and demonstrate how to assess the KSBs mapped to this assessment method. The EPAO must ensure that questions are refined and developed to a high standard. The questions must be unpredictable. A question bank of sufficient size will support this.  
The EPAO must ensure that the apprentice has a different set of questions in the case of re-sits or re-takes.
The EPAO must produce the following materials to support the test:
The EPAO must ensure that the EPA materials are subject to quality assurance procedures including standardisation and moderation.
Fail - does not meet pass criteria
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Theme
KSBs
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Pass
Apprentices must demonstrate all of the pass descriptors
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|---|---|
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Health and safety
K6 S1 S14 B1 |
Prioritises and applies safe systems of work, in compliance with health and safety regulations, standards and guidance and carries out a risk assessment in line with task requirements. (S1, B1) Applies techniques to mitigate refrigerant environmental, toxicity and flammability risks in line with organisational procedures and industry practice. (K6, S14).
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Tools and equipment
K21 S15 |
Identifies and uses tools and equipment in line with task requirements and operating instructions or manufacturers’ guidelines. (K21, S15) |
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Interpreting information
K19 S6 |
Interprets information and data from log books and diagrams to support task completion. (K19, S6) |
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De-commissioning
K17 K18 S9 S10 |
Applies techniques to decommission vapour compression systems, safe recovery and disposal of equipment, hazardous waste refrigerant transfer in line with organisational procedures and industry guidance. (K17, S9) Applies techniques to decommission electrical and electronic systems applicable to vapour compression systems in line with organisational procedures and industry guidance. (K18, S10) |
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Retrofit and retrofill
K12 S3 S13 B3 |
Taking responsibility for the work, applies techniques to retrofit and retrofill an existing refrigeration system to lower the GWP refrigerants, in line with task requirements and industry guidance. (S13, B3) Applies techniques to position, fix, joint and test, pipework and electrical circuits in line with task requirements, industry guidance and legislative requirements. (K12, S3) |
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Servicing, fault finding and rectification
K15 K16 S7 S8 |
Ensuring the safe isolation of the electrical supply; services and provides routine and reactive maintenance to vapour compression systems, including, the diagnosis and rectification of faults and installation of components. Completes the service and maintenance tasks, in line with task requirements, manufacturer's instructions and industry guidance. (K15, S7) Ensuring the safe isolation of the electrical supply; services and provides routine maintenance to electrical and electrical control systems, including the diagnosis and rectification of faults. Completes the service and maintenance tasks, in line with task requirements, manufacturer's instructions and industry guidance. (K16, S8)
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System performance
K11 S11 S12 |
Adjusts the operating parameters of a vapour compression system to achieve a reduction in direct and indirect carbon emissions in line with manufacturer’s instructions and industry guidance. (K11, S11) Maximises the performance of the vapour compression system by determining heating and cooling loads and selecting and balancing components and systems in line with manufacturer's instructions and industry guidance. (S12)
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Testing, commissioning and customer hand over
K13 K14 K26 S4 S5 S17 |
Applies practices and techniques to test, charge with refrigerant and commission vapour compression systems in line with industry guidance and organisational procedures. (K13, S4) Applies practices and techniques to test and commission electrical and electronic control systems in line with industry guidance, organisational procedures and legislative requirements. (K14, S5) Completes commissioning documentation and carries out a customer handover in line with industry guidance and legislative requirements. (K26, S17)
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Fail - does not meet pass criteria
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Theme
KSBs
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Pass
Apprentices must demonstrate all of the pass descriptors
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Distinction
Apprentices must demonstrate all of the pass descriptors and all of the distinction descriptors
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|---|---|---|
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Environment and sustainability
K3 S2 |
Describes how they comply with environmental and sustainability legislation, regulations and standards when carrying out tasks such as prevention of refrigerant emissions, segregating resources for reuse, recycling and disposal of waste. (K3, S2)
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Explains how their compliance with environmental and sustainability regulations and standards contribute to reducing the impact of vapour compression systems on the environment. (K3, S2) |
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Collaborative working and communication
K22 K23 S16 S18 B4 |
Describes how they communicate with others using verbal and written techniques, and how they adapt their style of communication to suit the audience. (K23, S16) Describes how they apply collaborative working and relationship management techniques with stakeholders or clients to promote teamwork and solve mutual problems. (K22, S18, B4)
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Justifies their choice of collaborative working and relationship management techniques, to ensure a positive outcome to the problem and maintain a positive relationship with clients or stakeholders. (K22, S18)
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Ethical principles and EDI
K25 K31 S21 B2 B6 |
Explains how they apply ethical principles to their role and how they report unethical behaviour in line with organisational procedures. (K31, S21, B2) Describes how they support an equitable, diverse and inclusive workplace. (K25, B6)
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Explains the impact ethical and unethical behaviour can have on the wider team, project objectives and the business. (K31, S21) Explains the importance of supporting an equitable, diverse and inclusive culture for themselves, others and the business. (K25, B6) |
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Work organisation and leadership
K27 K28 S19 |
Describes how they apply project leadership and work organisation principles and techniques when working with others to support task completion. (K27, K28, S19)
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Justifies their choice of leadership and work organisation principles and techniques when working with others to achieve positive outcomes. (K27, K28, S19).
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Digital applications
K30 S20 |
Describes how they use digital and information technology and comply with GDPR and cyber security regulations. (K30, S20) |
Outlines the benefits to the business of ensuring GDPR and cyber security regulations are followed. (K30, S20). |
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Continuous professional development and well being
K24 B5 |
Describes the issues, symptoms and warning signs related to stress anxiety and depression, and how to access sources of help and relevant resources. (K24) Describes how they reflect on their own practise and seek CPD opportunities, explaining how they keep up to date with industry developments. (B5)
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None. |
| Grade | Minimum marks required | Maximum marks required |
|---|---|---|
| Fail | 0 | 29 |
| Pass | 30 | 39 |
| Distinction | 40 | 50 |
Performance in the EPA determines the overall grade of:
An independent assessor must individually grade the practical assessment with questions and interview underpinned by an apprenticeship development journal synopsis in line with this EPA plan.
The EPAO must combine the individual assessment method grades to determine the overall EPA grade.
If the apprentice fails one assessment method or more, they will be awarded an overall fail.
To achieve an overall pass, the apprentice must achieve at least a pass in all the assessment methods. To achieve an overall EPA distinction, the apprentice must pass the practical assessment and achieve a distinction in the interview underpinned by an apprenticeship journal synopsis and multiple-choice test.
Grades from individual assessment methods must be combined in the following way to determine the grade of the EPA overall.
| Practical assessment with questions | Interview underpinned by an apprenticeship development journal synopsis | Multiple-choice test | Overall Grading |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fail | Any grade | Any grade | Fail |
| Any grade | Fail | Any grade | Fail |
| Any grade | Any grade | Fail | Fail |
| Pass | Pass | Pass | Pass |
| Pass | Pass | Distinction | Pass |
| Pass | Distinction | Pass | Pass |
| Pass | Distinction | Distinction | Distinction |
If the apprentice fails one assessment method or more, they can take a re-sit or a re-take at their employer’s discretion. The apprentice’s employer needs to agree that a re-sit or re-take is appropriate. A re-sit does not need further learning, whereas a re-take does. The apprentice should have a supportive action plan to prepare for a re-sit or a re-take.
The employer and the EPAO should agree the timescale for a re-sit or re-take. A re-sit is typically taken within 3 months of the EPA outcome notification. The timescale for a re-take is dependent on how much re-training is required and is typically taken within 6 months of the EPA outcome notification.
Failed assessment methods must be re-sat or re-taken within a 6-month period from the EPA outcome notification, otherwise the entire EPA will need to be re-sat or re-taken in full.
For the practical assessment, only those components failed will need to be resat or retaken
The apprentice will get a maximum EPA grade of if distinction they need to re-sit or re-take one or more assessment methods, unless the EPAO determines there are exceptional circumstances.
| Roles | Responsibilities |
|---|---|
|
Apprentice |
As a minimum, the apprentice should:
|
|
Employer |
As a minimum, the apprentice's employer must:
|
|
EPAO |
As a minimum, the EPAO must:
|
|
Independent assessor |
As a minimum, an independent assessor must:
|
|
Training provider |
As a minimum, the training provider must:
|
|
Marker |
As a minimum, the marker must:
|
|
Invigilator |
As a minimum, the invigilator must:
|
The EPAO must have reasonable adjustments arrangements for the EPA.
This should include:
Adjustments must maintain the validity, reliability and integrity of the EPA as outlined in this EPA plan.
Internal quality assurance refers to the strategies, policies and procedures that an EPAO must have in place to ensure valid, consistent and reliable EPA decisions.
EPAOs for this EPA must adhere to the requirements within the roles and responsibilities table.
They must also appoint independent assessors who:
Institute of Refrigeration
hold an assessor qualification (A1 or equivalent)
Affordability of the EPA will be aided by using at least some of the following:
This apprenticeship aligns with:
| Knowledge | Assessment methods |
|---|---|
|
K1
Health and Safety legislation and safe working practices applicable to working with pressure systems, electrical circuits and flammable substances. Back to Grading |
Multiple-choice test |
|
K2
Industry codes of practice and standards, legislation and sources of information and advice applicable to working with pressure systems, electrical circuits and flammable substances. Back to Grading |
Multiple-choice test |
|
K3
Environmental and sustainability regulations and guidance. Environmental hazards that can arise from vapour compression system operations. Environmental management systems standard. Environmental Protection Act. Environmental signage and notices. Types of pollution and control measures: noise, smells, spills, and waste. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by an apprenticeship development journal synopsis |
|
K4
Principles of thermodynamics, gas laws, psychrometrics and fluid flow. Back to Grading |
Multiple-choice test |
|
K5
Properties of refrigerant fluids and lubricants and their suitability for use in vapour compression systems. Applications and environmental impact. Back to Grading |
Multiple-choice test |
|
K6
Refrigerant use: handling techniques and risk mitigation. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
K7
Scientific and mechanical principles applicable to vapour compression systems. Back to Grading |
Multiple-choice test |
|
K8
Function and operation of refrigerant system components and how they interact in vapour compression systems. Back to Grading |
Multiple-choice test |
|
K9
Methods of maximising efficient vapour compression refrigerant system performance: heating and cooling loads, component selection and balancing techniques. Back to Grading |
Multiple-choice test |
|
K10
Methods of working with gases under pressure, including brazing work and pressure testing. Back to Grading |
Multiple-choice test |
|
K11
Vapour compression system operating parameters: adjustment techniques to mitigate direct and indirect carbon emissions. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
K12
Installation of electric circuits, pipe work: positioning, fixing, jointing and testing techniques. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
K13
Testing and commissioning practices and techniques applicable to vapour compression systems. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
K14
Testing and commissioning practices and techniques of electrical and electronic control systems applicable to vapour compression systems. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
K15
Routine and reactive service and maintenance practices and techniques applicable to vapour compression systems, including safe electrical isolation techniques. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
K16
Fault finding, diagnosis and rectification practices and techniques of electrical and electronic control systems applicable to vapour compression systems, including safe electrical isolation techniques. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
K17
Decommissioning techniques applicable to vapour compression systems, safe recovery and disposal of equipment, hazardous waste refrigerant transfer. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
K18
Decommissioning techniques of electrical and electronic control systems applicable to vapour compression systems. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
K19
Logbooks and diagrams applicable to refrigeration, air conditioning and heat pump maintenance activities. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
K20
Environmental technologies employed in the sector: heat recovery, low GWP refrigerants, heat gain, cooling load and energy use equipment. Back to Grading |
Multiple-choice test |
|
K21
Tools and equipment used in refrigeration, air conditioning and heat pump activities. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
K22
Collaborative working, relationship management with clients and stakeholders and mutual problem-solving techniques. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by an apprenticeship development journal synopsis |
|
K23
Communication techniques used with different audiences. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by an apprenticeship development journal synopsis |
|
K24
Well-being: mental and physical health considerations in self and others and how to access support. Impact of mental health on the construction industry. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by an apprenticeship development journal synopsis |
|
K25
Equity, diversity and inclusion requirements in the workplace. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by an apprenticeship development journal synopsis |
|
K26
Documentation methods and requirements - electronic and paper. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
K27
Project leadership techniques and principles. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by an apprenticeship development journal synopsis |
|
K28
Planning, prioritising, work scheduling, workflow and time management techniques. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by an apprenticeship development journal synopsis |
|
K29
Requirements for component warranty, legislation or regulation related to installation or other protections. Back to Grading |
Multiple-choice test |
|
K30
Information technology: Management Information Systems (MIS), spreadsheets, presentation, word processing, email, virtual communication and learning platforms. General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). Cyber security. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by an apprenticeship development journal synopsis |
|
K31
Ethical and unethical behaviour, and the routes for reporting if unethical behaviour is identified. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by an apprenticeship development journal synopsis |
| Skill | Assessment methods |
|---|---|
|
S1
Comply with health and safety, regulations and standards. Apply safe systems of work, including carrying out a risk assessment. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
S2
Comply with environmental and sustainability regulations and standards for example prevention of refrigerant emissions, segregate resources for reuse and, recycling and disposal of waste. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by an apprenticeship development journal synopsis |
|
S3
Position, fix, joint and test, pipework and electrical circuits. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
S4
Test, charge with refrigerant and commission vapour compression systems. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
S5
Test and commission electrical and electronic control systems applicable to vapour compression systems. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
S6
Interpret information and data from log books and diagrams. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
S7
Perform servicing, maintenance, fault diagnosis and rectification procedures and techniques on vapour compression systems including routine and reactive maintenance, installation of components and safe electrical isolation of supply. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
S8
Perform routine service, maintenance, fault diagnosis and rectification procedures and techniques on electrical and electrical control systems applicable to vapour compression systems including carrying out safe isolation procedures. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
S9
Decommission vapour compression systems, safe recovery and disposal of equipment, hazardous waste refrigerant transfer. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
S10
Decommission electrical and electronic systems applicable to vapour compression systems. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
S11
Adjust vapour compression system operating parameters to achieve reductions in carbon emissions. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
S12
Maximise performance of vapour compression systems by determining heating and cooling loads and selecting and balancing components and systems. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
S13
Retrofit and retro fill existing equipment to lower GWP refrigerants. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
S14
Mitigate risks of refrigerants including environmental, toxicity and flammability hazards. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
S15
Identify and use tools and equipment. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
S16
Communicate with others verbally and in writing. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by an apprenticeship development journal synopsis |
|
S17
Complete a customer handover. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
S18
Work collaboratively with clients or stakeholders to solve problems. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by an apprenticeship development journal synopsis |
|
S19
Apply project leadership techniques and principles. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by an apprenticeship development journal synopsis |
|
S20
Use information and digital technology and comply with GDPR and cyber security regulations. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by an apprenticeship development journal synopsis |
|
S21
Apply ethical principles. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by an apprenticeship development journal synopsis |
| Behaviour | Assessment methods |
|---|---|
|
B1
Prioritise health and safety. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
B2
Act ethically. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by an apprenticeship development journal synopsis |
|
B3
Take responsibility for work. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
B4
Team focused to meet work goals, for example, work effectively with others, resolve issues in discussion with others. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by an apprenticeship development journal synopsis |
|
B5
Committed to continued professional development (CPD) to maintain and enhance competence in own area of practice. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by an apprenticeship development journal synopsis |
|
B6
Support an equitable, diverse and inclusive culture. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by an apprenticeship development journal synopsis |
| KSBS GROUPED BY THEME | Knowledge | Skills | Behaviour |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Health and safety
K6 S1 S14 B1 |
Refrigerant use: handling techniques and risk mitigation. (K6) |
Comply with health and safety, regulations and standards. Apply safe systems of work, including carrying out a risk assessment. (S1) Mitigate risks of refrigerants including environmental, toxicity and flammability hazards. (S14) |
Prioritise health and safety. (B1) |
|
Tools and equipment
K21 S15 |
Tools and equipment used in refrigeration, air conditioning and heat pump activities. (K21) |
Identify and use tools and equipment. (S15) |
None |
|
Interpreting information
K19 S6 |
Logbooks and diagrams applicable to refrigeration, air conditioning and heat pump maintenance activities. (K19) |
Interpret information and data from log books and diagrams. (S6) |
None |
|
De-commissioning
K17 K18 S9 S10 |
Decommissioning techniques applicable to vapour compression systems, safe recovery and disposal of equipment, hazardous waste refrigerant transfer. (K17) Decommissioning techniques of electrical and electronic control systems applicable to vapour compression systems. (K18) |
Decommission vapour compression systems, safe recovery and disposal of equipment, hazardous waste refrigerant transfer. (S9) Decommission electrical and electronic systems applicable to vapour compression systems. (S10) |
None |
|
Retrofit and retrofill
K12 S3 S13 B3 |
Installation of electric circuits, pipe work: positioning, fixing, jointing and testing techniques. (K12) |
Position, fix, joint and test, pipework and electrical circuits. (S3) Retrofit and retro fill existing equipment to lower GWP refrigerants. (S13) |
Take responsibility for work. (B3) |
|
Servicing, fault finding and rectification
K15 K16 S7 S8 |
Routine and reactive service and maintenance practices and techniques applicable to vapour compression systems, including safe electrical isolation techniques. (K15) Fault finding, diagnosis and rectification practices and techniques of electrical and electronic control systems applicable to vapour compression systems, including safe electrical isolation techniques. (K16) |
perform servicing, maintenance, fault diagnosis and rectification procedures and techniques on vapour compression systems including routine and reactive maintenance, installation of components and safe electrical isolation of supply. (S7) Perform routine service, maintenance, fault diagnosis and rectification procedures and techniques on electrical and electrical control systems applicable to vapour compression systems including carrying out safe isolation procedures. (S8) |
None |
|
System performance
K11 S11 S12 |
Vapour compression system operating parameters: adjustment techniques to mitigate direct and indirect carbon emissions. (K11) |
Adjust vapour compression system operating parameters to achieve reductions in carbon emissions. (S11) Maximise performance of vapour compression systems by determining heating and cooling loads and selecting and balancing components and systems. (S12) |
None |
|
Testing, commissioning and customer hand over
K13 K14 K26 S4 S5 S17 |
Testing and commissioning practices and techniques applicable to vapour compression systems. (K13) Testing and commissioning practices and techniques of electrical and electronic control systems applicable to vapour compression systems. (K14) Documentation methods and requirements - electronic and paper. (K26) |
Test, charge with refrigerant and commission vapour compression systems. (S4) Test and commission electrical and electronic control systems applicable to vapour compression systems. (S5) Complete a customer handover. (S17) |
None |
| KSBS GROUPED BY THEME | Knowledge | Skills | Behaviour |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Environment and sustainability
K3 S2 |
Environmental and sustainability regulations and guidance. Environmental hazards that can arise from vapour compression system operations. Environmental management systems standard. Environmental Protection Act. Environmental signage and notices. Types of pollution and control measures: noise, smells, spills, and waste. (K3) |
Comply with environmental and sustainability regulations and standards for example prevention of refrigerant emissions, segregate resources for reuse and, recycling and disposal of waste. (S2) |
None |
|
Collaborative working and communication
K22 K23 S16 S18 B4 |
Collaborative working, relationship management with clients and stakeholders and mutual problem-solving techniques. (K22) Communication techniques used with different audiences. (K23) |
Communicate with others verbally and in writing. (S16) Work collaboratively with clients or stakeholders to solve problems. (S18) |
Team focused to meet work goals, for example, work effectively with others, resolve issues in discussion with others. (B4) |
|
Ethical principles and EDI
K25 K31 S21 B2 B6 |
Equity, diversity and inclusion requirements in the workplace. (K25) Ethical and unethical behaviour, and the routes for reporting if unethical behaviour is identified. (K31) |
Apply ethical principles. (S21) |
Act ethically. (B2) Support an equitable, diverse and inclusive culture. (B6) |
|
Work organisation and leadership
K27 K28 S19 |
Project leadership techniques and principles. (K27) Planning, prioritising, work scheduling, workflow and time management techniques. (K28) |
Apply project leadership techniques and principles. (S19) |
None |
|
Digital applications
K30 S20 |
Information technology: Management Information Systems (MIS), spreadsheets, presentation, word processing, email, virtual communication and learning platforms. General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). Cyber security. (K30) |
Use information and digital technology and comply with GDPR and cyber security regulations. (S20) |
None |
|
Continuous professional development and well being
K24 B5 |
Well-being: mental and physical health considerations in self and others and how to access support. Impact of mental health on the construction industry. (K24) |
None |
Committed to continued professional development (CPD) to maintain and enhance competence in own area of practice. (B5) |
Contact us about this apprenticeship
| Version | Change detail | Earliest start date | Latest start date | Latest end date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Revised version awaiting implementation | In revision | 01/10/2024 | Not set | Not set |
| 1.1 | End-point assessment plan revised | 22/05/2018 | 30/09/2024 | Not set |
| 1.0 | Retired | 10/09/2015 | 21/05/2018 | Not set |
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