The Malta Environment and Planning Authority (MEPA) and the Malta Competition and Consumer Affairs Authority (MCCAA) have jointly investigated the placing on the market of non-refillable cylinders containing  the substances R 134a, R 407c, R 404a and R 410a which are used in the recharging of air conditioning and refrigeration systems.

These cylinders, shown in the attached photo have been found to be non-refillable even though they have been printed with markings showing to the contrary. These cylinders pose a serious risk to users if they are assumed to be refillable and recharged for more than a single use. Moreover, the placing on the market, including import of the above substances within such non-refillable cylinders is strictly prohibited under applicable legislation.

In view of this, the authorities are ordering the recall of these cylinders from the market. Economic operators having these cylinders in their possession should refrain from using them and return them to the place of purchase. Operators found using or having in their store these cylinders during inspections would be liable to legal action against them.

For any further guidance you may wish to contact the Malta Environment and Planning Authority on 2290-7228 or the Malta Competition and Consumer Affairs Authority on 2395-2000.