SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
16. Charging procedures
In addition to conventional charging procedures, the following requirements should be followed. Ensure
that contamination of different refrigerants does not occur when using charging equipment. Hoses or
lines should be as short as possible to minimize the amount of refrigerant contained in them. Cylinders
should be kept upright. Ensure that the refrigeration system is earthed prior to charging the system with
refrigerant. Label the system when charging is complete (if not already). Extreme care should be taken
not to overfill the refrigeration system. Prior to recharging the system, it should be pressure tested with
OFN. The system should be leak tested on completion of charging but prior to commissioning.
A follow-up leak test shall be carried out prior to leaving the site.
17. Decommissioning
Before carrying out this procedure, it is essential that the technician is completely familiar with the
equipment and all its detail. It is recommended good practice that all refrigerants are recovered safely.
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 it’s operation.
b. Isolate the system electrically.
c. Before attempting the procedure ensure that:
i. Mechanical handling equipment is available, if required, for handling refrigerant cylinders
ii. All personal protective equipment is available and being used correctly
iii. The recovery process is supervised at all times by a competent person
iv. Recovery equipment and cylinders conform to the appropriate standards
d. If possible, pump down refrigerant system.
e. If a vacuum is not possible, make a manifold so that refrigerant can be removed from various
parts of the system.
f. Make sure that cylinder is situated on the scales before recovery takes place.
g. Start the recovery machine and operate in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions.
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.
j. When the cylinders have been filled correctly and the process completed, make sure that the
cylinders and the equipment are removed from site promptly and all isolation valves on the
equipment are closed off.
k. Recovered refrigerant should not be charged into another refrigeration system unless it has
been cleaned and checked.
18. Labelling
Equipment should be labelled stating that it has been de-commissioned and emptied of refrigerant. The
label should be dated and signed. Ensure that there are labels on the equipment stating the equipment
contains flammable refrigerant.
CONTINUED
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