The IOR is made up of around 1950 individuals in many different roles and career stages from student to business owner.  It was formed in 1899 and exists today to promote the advancement of refrigeration and its applications for the public good.  What does this mean in practice? It means that members come to the IOR to share and learn. We avoid commercial or product/business promotion in both our education and technical output.  We offer national and local events, networks, training webinars, technical guidance and promote innovation. The IOR also takes a leadership role in promoting careers, CPD and encouraging training.  The IOR represents the sector to give it the profile and recognition for its contribution to the many positive aspects of society that it deserves.

The IOR is a professional affiliate of the Engineering Council, the UK representative body of ASHRAE, provides UK membership of the International Institute of Refrigeration, is a member of the Construction CPD Service and nominates to the BSI standards development organisation. It is a registered scientific and educational charity, owned by its members. It provides recognition of individual achievement and innovation through awards, provides free technical advice for apprentices and students and funds a variety of STEM initiatives to promote careers.

Explore our pages on Education, Events, Environment and Publications to find out more.

 

Recent posts

Constitution update and revision 2026

29 Sep 2026

Find out about updates being proposed to the IOR Constitution following member feedback and Charity Commission updated guidance.

News

What we do

23 Apr 2026

Find out what the IOR can do for you: technical queries, safety codes of practice, new  technologies and professional development.

News

Join us

23 Apr 2026

When you become a member of the Institute of Refrigeration you are joining a group of specialist experts driving the sector forward.

News

Exploring the Critical Role of Thermal Insulation in Refrigeration and the Cold Chain

26 Oct 2026

Join us on 5 November for an IOR Technical Talk featuring two presentations that explore the vital role thermal insulation plays in refrigeration and cold chain applications.

Online event

CIBSE and HPA UK Launch Comprehensive Domestic Heat Pump Guide

15 Oct 2026

CIBSE and HPA UK have unveiled a new Domestic Heat Pump Design and Installation Guide, providing industry professionals with a practical resource to support the specification, installation and commissioning of domestic air-to-water heat pump systems.
Publication