14
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
Charging procedures
• In addition to conventional charging procedures, the following requirements shall be
- Ensure that contamination of different refrigerants does not occur when using charging
followed.
refrigerant contained in them.
equipment. Hoses or lines shall be as short as possible to minimise the amount of
- Cylinders shall be kept upright.
refrigerant.
- Ensure that the refrigeration system is earthed prior to charging the system with
- Label the system when charging is complete (if not already).
the system it shall be pressure tested with OFN. The system shall be leak tested on
- Extreme care shall be taken not to overfill the refrigeration system. Prior to recharging
familiar with the equipment and all its detail.
• It is recommended good practice that all refrigerants are recovered safely.
completion of charging but prior to commissioning. A follow-up leak test shall be
carried out prior to leaving the site.
Decommissioning
• Before carrying out this procedure, it is essential that the technician is completely
• Prior to the task being carried out, an oil and refrigerant sample shall be taken in case
analysis is required prior to re-use of reclaimed refrigerant. It is essential that electrical
power is available before the task is commenced.
a) Become familiar with the equipment and its operation.
b) Isolate system electrically.
c) Before attempting the procedure ensure that:
• mechanical handling equipment is available, if required, for handling refrigerant
cylinders;
• all personal protective equipment is available and being used correctly;
• the recovery process is supervised at all times by a competent person;
• recovery equipment and cylinders conform to the appropriate standards.
various parts of the system.
d) Pump down the refrigerant system, if possible.
e) If a vacuum is not possible, make a manifold so that refrigerant can be removed from
f ) Make sure that cylinder is situated on the scales before recovery takes place.
instructions.
g) Start the recovery machine and operate in accordance with manufacturer's
h) Do not overfill cylinders. (No more than 80 % volume liquid charge).
i ) Do not exceed the maximum working pressure of the cylinder, even temporarily.
