No person carrying out work in relation to a refrigeration system which
involves exposing any pipe work that contains or has contained flammable
refrigerant shall use any sources of ignition in such a manner that it may
lead to the risk of fire or explosion. All possible ignition sources, including
igarette smoking, should be kept sufficiently far away from the site of
installation, repairing, removing and disposal, during which flammable
refrigerant can possibly be released to the surrounding space. Prior to work
taking place, the area around the equipment is to be surveyed to make sure
that there are no flammable hazards or ignition risks. “No Smoking” signs
shall be displayed.
1.7 Ventilated area
Ensure that the area is in the open or that it is adequately ventilated before
breaking into the system or conducting any hot work. A degree of ventilation
shall continue during the period that the work is carried out. The ventilation
should safely disperse any released refrigerant and preferably expel it
externally into the atmosphere.
1.8 checks to the refrigeration equipment
Where electrical components are being changed, they shall be fit for the
purpose and to the correct specification. At all times the manufacturer’s
maintenance and service guidelines shall be followed. If in doubt consult
the manufacturer’s technical department for assistance.The following
checks shall be applied to installations using flammable refrigerants: the
charge size is in accordance with the room size within which the refrigerant
containing parts are installed; the ventilation machinery and outlets are
operating adequately and are not obstructed; if an indirect refrigerating
circuit is being used, the secondary circuit shall be checked for the presence
of refrigerant; marking to the equipment continues to be visible and legible.
Markings and signs that
are illegible shall be corrected; refrigeration pipe or components are
installed in a position where they are unlikely to be exposed to any substance
which may corrode refrigerant containing compo
nents, unless the components are constructed of materials which are
inherently resistant to being corroded or are suitably protected against
being so corroded.
1.9 checks to electrical devices
Repair and maintenance to electrical components shall include initial
safety checks and component inspection procedures. If a fault exists that
could compromise safety, then no electrical supply shall be connected to
the circuit until it is satisfactorily dealt with. If the fault cannot be corrected
immediately but it is necessary to continue operation, an adequate
temporary solution shall be used. This shall be reported to the owner of the
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