safety handling

Personal Protective Equipment for Refrigerant Work

Protect your eyes, skin and lungs when working with refrigerant.

11 steps5 criticalLimit 5 minAlways tested

Steps

1Assess the job hazards first: refrigerant type, enclosed space, and chance of a leak
2Check the refrigerant's safety data sheet for its PPE and first-aid advice
3Critical stepInspect your PPE and do not use anything damaged
4Critical stepPut on safety glasses with side shields; use chemical goggles where liquid could reach your eyes
5Put on gloves when liquid contact is possible; the Chemours sheets call for cold-insulating or low-temperature-resistant gloves, and the R-410A sheet says insulated gloves if prolonged contact is anticipated
6Critical stepWear general work clothing and safety shoes; remove clothing wet with refrigerant promptly
7Ventilate the work area and stay out of enclosed or low spots where vapor can collect
8Critical stepFor a leak, enclosed space or unknown concentration, use a self-contained or supplied-air respirator under your employer's respirator program
9With a flammable refrigerant, keep ignition sources away and remove all of them if there is a leak
10Keep flame, welding and other very hot work away from refrigerant; flames, hot spots or welding can create toxic and corrosive decomposition products
11Know the first aid before you start: fresh air for inhalation, lukewarm water for frostbite, water flush for eyes

Tips

Liquid refrigerant boils off fast and can freeze skin. Wear gloves and eye protection whenever liquid contact is possible.
Refrigerant vapor can be heavier than air and push out breathable air, so low and closed spaces are the danger zones.
For the exam, remember the EPA topic list: gloves, goggles, and SCBA only in extreme cases. The product's safety data sheet sets the details for the job.

Skipping the hazard check because the job looks routine.
Using no gloves when liquid refrigerant could spray, then getting frostbite.
Wearing glasses without side shields, or glasses where splash goggles are called for.
Working in a closed room or low area without ventilation, where vapor can collect.

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