E/0204/39/74
20.4 SAFETY STANDARDS TO COMPLY WITH WHEN WORKING ON REFRIGERATION
CIRCUITS
The refrigerant used for this machine can be dangerous if it is not properly used. Several
precautions must be taken when handling this substance:
· never release, store or use the refrigerant near open flames. The refrigerant is non-toxic.
Contact with flames causes combustion which generates toxic gases that can corrode
metal surfaces;
· never expose the eyes to contact with the refrigerant since it can reach temperatures of -
40°C;
· never expose the skin to contact with the refrigerant. If this happens then the damaged
part must be treated using the same procedures used in combination with frostbite and
freezing;
· avoid high concentrations of refrigerant since these can cause suffocation. In this case
the person must be evacuated from the room and undergo artificial respiration;
· avoid brazing or welding in the presence of refrigerant vapours;
· do not place gas heating equipment or electrical radiators in places where refrigerant
vapours may be present;
· do not smoke;
· do not overheat gas cylinders; do not exceed the refrigerant gas limit indicated on the
technical data plate;
· the cooling system must be handled with care as it may contain acids as a result of motor
burn-out.
Therefore, protective gloves, goggles and clothing must be worn.
· eliminate pressure from the entire cooling system before brazing or welding. Welding
when the circuit is under pressure is extremely dangerous due to the risk of the piping
rupturing and molten material being projected by the refrigerant gas pressure.
20.5 HAZARDS ARISING IN CASE OF FIRE
There are no direct dangers.
The refrigerant gas, in the presence of flames, generates toxic and corrosive substances.
The way to prevent this risk, in view of the relatively small quantities of refrigerant contained
in the machine, is to position the unit in adequately ventilated rooms.
