Refrigerant Hazards

Although fluorocarbon refrigerants (R-404A/R-452A and R-134a) are classified as safe, observe caution when working with refrigerants or around areas where they are being used in the servicing of your unit.

    Danger
  • Hazardous Gases - Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Required
  • Refrigerant in the presence of an open flame, spark, or electrical short produces toxic gases that are severe respiratory irritants which can cause serious injury or possible death. When working with or around hazardous chemicals, ALWAYS refer to the applicable Material Data Safety Sheets (MSDS) and OSHA/GHS (Global Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals) guidelines for information on allowable personal exposure levels, proper respiratory protection, and handling instructions.
    Danger
  • Refrigerant Vapor Hazard
  • Do not inhale refrigerant. Use caution when working with refrigerant or a refrigeration system in any confined area with a limited air supply. Refrigerant displaces air and can cause oxygen depletion, resulting in suffocation and possible death. When working with or around hazardous chemicals, ALWAYS refer to the applicable Material Data Safety Sheets (MSDS) and OSHA/GHS (Global Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals) guidelines for information on allowable personal exposure levels, proper respiratory protection, and handling instructions.
    Warning
  • Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Required
  • Refrigerant in a liquid state evaporates rapidly when exposed to the atmosphere, freezing anything it contacts. Wear butyl lined gloves and other clothing and eye wear when handling refrigerant to help prevent frostbite. When working with or around hazardous chemicals, ALWAYS refer to the applicable Material Data Safety Sheets (MSDS) and OSHA/GHS (Global Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals) guidelines for information on allowable personal exposure levels, proper respiratory protection, and handling instructions.

    Danger
  • Hazardous Pressures
  • Always store refrigerant in proper containers, out of direct sunlight and away from intense heat. Heat increases pressure inside storage containers, which can cause them to burst and could result in severe personal injury.
    Danger
  • Combustible Hazard
  • Do not use oxygen (O2 ) or compressed air for leak testing. Oxygen mixed with refrigerant is combustible.
    Warning
  • Hazardous Gases
  • Do not use a Halide torch. When a flame comes in contact with refrigerant, toxic gases are produced. These gases can cause suffocation, even death.
    Warning
  • Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Required
  • Refrigerant in a liquid state evaporates rapidly when exposed to the atmosphere, freezing anything it contacts. Wear butyl lined gloves and other clothing and eye wear when handling refrigerant to help prevent frostbite. When working with or around hazardous chemicals, ALWAYS refer to the applicable Material Data Safety Sheets (MSDS) and OSHA/GHS (Global Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals) guidelines for information on allowable personal exposure levels, proper respiratory protection, and handling instructions.

Parent topic: Safety Precautions