2.2.4 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 flammable atmospheres. Ensure that
the leak detection equipment being used is suitable for use with flammable refrigerants,
i.e. no sparking, adequately sealed or intrinsically safe.
2.2.5 Presence of fire extinguisher
If any hot work is to be conducted on the refrigeration equipment or any associated parts,
appropriate fire extinguishing equipment shall be available to hand. Have a dry powder
orCO2 fire extinguisher adjacent to the charging area.
2.2.6 No ignition sources
No person carrying out work in relation to a refrigeration system which involves exposing
any pipe work that contains or has contained flammable refrigerant 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 flammable 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.
2.2.7 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.
2.2.8 Checks to the refrigeration 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 charge size 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;
– Marking to the equipment continues to be visible and legible. Markings and signs that
are illegible shall be corrected;
– refrigeration pipe or components are installed in a position where they are unlikely to be
exposed to any substance which may corrode refrigerant containing components, unless
the components are constructed of materials which are inherently resistant to being
corroded or are suitably protected against being so corroded.
2.2.9 Checks to electrical devices
Repair and maintenance to electrical components shall include initial safety checks and
component inspection procedures. If a fault exists that could compromise safety, then no
electrical supply shall be connected to the circuit until it is satisfactorily dealt with. If the
fault cannot be corrected immediately but it is necessary to continue operation, an
adequate temporary solution shall be used. This shall be reported to the owner of the
equipment so all parties are advised.
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