R32 SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
ii
No ignition sources
- All possible ignition sources, including cigarette smoking, should be kept sufficiently far away from
the site of installation, repairing, removing and disposal. 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.
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.
Checks to the refrigeration equipment
- When 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.
- 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;
- Markings on 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 or materials which are inherently resistant to being corroded or are suitably protected
against being so corroded.
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.
- Initial safety checks shall include:
• that capacitors are discharged: this shall be done in a safe manner to avoid possibility of sparking;
• that no live electrical components and wiring are exposed while charging, recovering or purging the
system,
• that there is continuity of earth bonding.
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