Exceptions for ODS Trade
ODS Containers and ODS in Equipment and Products
ODS (and mixtures, or blends, containing ODS) in bulk containers that are transported or stored ARE controlled. For example, a 12 ounce can of CFC-12 that is used to fill a car air conditioning system is considered a bulk shipment and is controlled.
Manufactured products, or use systems, containing ODS for either commercial or non-commercial uses ARE NOT controlled. For example, a car containing ODS (such as a CFC refrigerant) in a fully charged air conditioning system is considered a use system and is not controlled.
However, some countries may have certain bans on products containing ODS; regulations specific to these ODS product bans are covered in the country-specific sections later in this course module.
Other Exceptions
Customs Inspectors should be aware that there are exceptions to import bans and must always verify that import of a banned ODS falls within one of the exceptions before releasing the shipment.
- Exempted uses of ODS include: certain essential uses; use as feedstock (as an agent in chemical reactions); and use as process agents that assist in a chemical reaction, but are not consumed.
- Exceptions to the import of ODS include used ODS that are reclaimed or recycled, and ODS that are imported for transformation or destruction purposes.
- Laboratory uses, quarantine and preshipment for methyl bromide, and critical uses for methyl bromide.
