Technical instructions
for Installation
14
DESHU - October 2015
1/
Instructions concerning refrigerant fl uid handling and associated risks (according to
Westfalen documentation)
1.1/ Important information
Refrigerants R-134A, R407C and R-410A are liquefi ed hydrofl uorocarbons (HFCs) under pressure. As their boiling
point is low, they are extremely volatile and cool down very quickly in case of evaporation. As steams are
heavier than air, insuffi cient ventilation can create a strong concentration near the ground. All the refrigerants
mentioned above have low toxicity. Maximum acceptable concentration (MAC) levels is 1000 ppm according
to the manufacturers. Very high concentration levels may cause dangerous arrhythmias and suffocations due
to the lack of oxygen. The HFCs mentioned above are not fl ammable under normal conditions of pressure
and temperature. However, they are fl ammable when mixed with air under high pressure. Such conditions
must imperatively be avoided. Thermal decomposition (when exposed to an open fl ame for example) results
in the formation of toxic and corrosive vapours such as hydrogen fl uoride. The refrigerants mentioned above
are well-known substances and do not present any risk for human health or the environment when properly
handled. However, it is important to adopt a responsible attitude when in contact with refrigerants.
1.2/ Individual protection
As for any operation that involves consumable materials handling, hygiene rules must be respected when
handling refrigerant. Wear appropriate protective clothings, protective gloves and glasses or mask to avoid
skin or eye contact. Spatters or droplets sprays can cause frostbite and eye damage.
Ensure good ventilation of the working area to avoid inhaling high vapours concentration levels.
Smoking and alcohol consumption are prohibited during work.
Avoid exposing refrigerants to an open fl ame to prevent the formation of toxic decomposition products.
Consequently, all welding and brazing activities must be performed on parts with no trace of refrigerant. Good
ventilation is required. In case of emergency work in high refrigerant concentration levels, self-contained
breathing equipment is mandatory.
1.3/ Technical room safety
Constantly monitor the concentration of refrigerant in room air to make sure that exposure limit values are
respected. Electronic detectors are available through specialised distributors.
With good ventilation/extraction limit values are easily respected. Refrigerant discharge pollutes the
environment and generates unnecessary costs.
Also, it is important to check equipment tightness regularly and to repair any detected leakage immediately.
1.4/ Precautions for handling
Liquid refrigerant transfer may create electrostatic charges. Provide earthing to prevent electrostatic charge
build-up It is recommended to wear insulated gloves when transferring liquefi ed gas, as very cold gas may
be released.
1.5/ Refrigerant safety
These safety measures have been in place for a long time in the refrigeration industry, without any extra cost.
When properly handled and used, the non-toxic and non-fl ammable refrigerants mentioned above offer
optimal safety and environmental friendliness.
1.6/ Fire emergency procedure
The fi re fi ghting procedure depends on the environment. Fire fi ghters should wear self-contained breathing
equipment and full protective clothing. Some refrigerant cylinders may burst as a result of overheating. Cool
them down using a water jet.
