15/19
Instruction, Repairing Appliances Containing R 290
1.
Checks to the area
Prior to beginning work on systems containing
flammable refrigerants
, safety checks
are necessary to ensure that the risk of ignition is minimised. For repair to the
refrigerating system
, the following precaution shall be completed prior to conducting
work on the system.
2.
Work procedure
Work shall be undertaken under a controlled procedure so as to minimise the risk of a
flammable gas or vapour being present while the work is being performed.
3.
General work area
All maintenance staff and others working in the local area shall be instructed on the nature
of work being carried out. Work in confined spaces shall be avoided.
4.
Checking for presence of refrigerant
The area shall be checked with an appropriate refrigerant detector prior to and during work,
to ensure the technician is aware of potentially toxic or flammable atmospheres. Ensure that
the leak detection equipment being used is suitable for use with all applicable refrigerants,
i.e. non-sparking, adequately sealed or intrinsically safe.
5.
Presence of fire extinguisher
If any hot work is to be conducted on the refrigerating equipment or any associated
parts, appropriate fire extinguishing equipment shall be available to hand. Have a dry
powder or CO2 fire extinguisher adjacent to the charging area.
6.
No ignition sources
No person carrying out work in relation to a
refrigerating system
which involves
exposing any pipe work 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 cigarette
smoking, should be kept sufficiently far away from the site of installation, repairing,
removing and disposal, during which 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.
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.
8.
Checks to the refrigerating 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 actual
refrigerant charge
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;
