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 should be available to hand. Have a dry powder or
CO2 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
pipework that contains or has contained flammable refrigerant should 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 should 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 should 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 should be fit for the purpose and to the
correct specification. At all times, the manufacturer’s maintenance and service guidelines should
be followed. If in doubt consult the manufacturer’s technical department for assistance.
The following checks should 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 should be checked for the
presence of refrigerant.
– Marking to the equipment continues to be visible and legible. Markings and signs that are
illegible should be corrected.
To Next Page
Loading...
