Suffocation Risk
Refrigerants are heavier than air and will settle in low-lying areas such as basements and pits. In an enclosed space, a large leak can displace oxygen, creating a suffocation hazard. If a large leak occurs, evacuate the area immediately and ventilate before re-entering.
Refrigerants are heavier than air and can displace oxygen in enclosed spaces, causing suffocation.
Frostbite & Toxic Decomposition
Liquid refrigerant contact with skin causes frostbite because refrigerants boil at very low temperatures. Additionally, when refrigerants are exposed to an open flame or hot surfaces, they can decompose into extremely toxic gases including phosgene, hydrogen fluoride, and hydrogen chloride. Never use a torch near refrigerant leaks.
Liquid refrigerant causes frostbite on contact, and refrigerants exposed to open flame decompose into toxic phosgene gas.
Flammable Refrigerants
Hydrocarbon refrigerants such as R-290 (propane) and R-600a (isobutane) are flammable. An explosion requires two factors: a sufficient concentration of refrigerant within the flammable range AND an ignition source. Always ensure proper ventilation and eliminate ignition sources when working with hydrocarbon refrigerants.
Hydrocarbon refrigerants (R-290, R-600a) are flammable and require both sufficient concentration and an ignition source to explode.
Critical Safety Rules
Pressurization & Leak Detection
Never use oxygen or compressed air to pressurize a refrigeration system. Oxygen mixed with refrigerant oil can cause a violent explosion. Always use dry nitrogen with a pressure regulator for leak testing. For detecting leaks, use electronic leak detectors, UV dye with a UV light, or soap bubbles.
Always use dry nitrogen (never oxygen) for pressure testing, and electronic leak detectors or soap bubbles for leak detection.
Safety Essentials
- Refrigerants are heavier than air and displace oxygen in enclosed spaces, creating suffocation risk.
- Liquid refrigerant causes frostbite; refrigerants decompose into toxic phosgene when exposed to flame.
- Hydrocarbon refrigerants (R-290, R-600a) are flammable and need concentration + ignition source to explode.
- Never use oxygen to pressurize systems; always use dry nitrogen with a regulator.
- Wear safety glasses, gloves, and proper footwear; use a respirator in poorly ventilated areas.