Metadata update and formatting corrections in refrigeration mechanic apprenticeship exam rules
This regulation, which has already been repealed, received a metadata update (last modified date changed from May 2026 to June 2026) and several formatting corrections. The only substantive change is that "Mechaniker" (mechanic) was added as an additional profession eligible to take the supplementary exam in refrigeration mechanics, alongside electricians and electrical machine builders.
What changed
The regulation's internal metadata was updated to reflect a new last-modified date. More importantly, paragraph 5(1) now states that persons who have successfully completed apprenticeship exams in "Elektromechaniker and -maschinenbauer or Mechaniker" (electrician, electrical machine builder, or general mechanic) may take the supplementary exam in refrigeration mechanics. Previously, only the first two professions were listed. Additionally, several quotation marks were changed from straight quotes to German-style quotes (" to „"), and line breaks within compound words were removed for better formatting.
Who is affected
Persons who completed apprenticeships as general mechanics (Mechaniker) and wish to obtain a qualification in refrigeration mechanics can now take the supplementary exam. This opens the pathway to cooling equipment specialization for a broader group of tradespeople. Note that this regulation itself was repealed, so its practical effect today is limited.
What to look out for
The substantive eligibility change (addition of "Mechaniker") means that general mechanics no longer need to be electricians or electrical machine builders to qualify for the supplementary exam. The formatting changes are cosmetic and do not alter the exam requirements or procedures.