•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.,nonsparking, adequately sealed, or intrinsically safe.
•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. 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.
•Detection of flammable refrigerants: Under no circumstances shall potential
sources of ignition be used in the searching for or detection of refrigerant leaks.
A halide torch (or any other detector using a naked flame) shall not be used.
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