5 Storage of packed (unsold) equipment
Storage package protection should be constructed so that mechanical damage to the equipment inside the package will not
cause a leak of the refrigerant.
The maximum number of pieces of equipment permitted to be stored together will be determined by local regulations.
6 Information on servicing
6.1. Checking the area
Prior to beginning work on systems containing ammable refrigerants, safety checks are necessary to ensure that the risk of
ignition is minimised. To repair the refrigerating system, the following precautions should be complied with prior to conducting
work on the system.
6.2. Work procedure
Work shall be undertaken following a controlled procedure so as to minimise the risk of ammable gas or vapour being
leaked while the work is being performed.
6.3. General working area
• All maintenance staff and others working in the local area shall be instructed on the nature of work being carried out.
Work in conned spaces shall be avoided.
• The area around the workspace shall be sectioned off. Ensure that the conditions within the area have been made safe
by controlling ammable material.
6.4. Checking for leakage of refrigerant
• The area shall be checked with an appropriate refrigerant detector prior to and during work, to ensure the technician is
aware of potential ammable atmospheres.
• Ensure that the leak detection equipment being used is suitable for ammable refrigerants, i.e. non-sparking, adequately
sealed or intrinsically safe.
6.5. Fire extinguisher
• If any hot work is to be conducted on the refrigeration equipment or any associated parts, appropriate re extinguishing
equipment shall be available.
• Have a dry powder or CO
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re extinguisher adjacent to the charging area.
6.6. 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 ammable refrigerant shall use any sources of ignition in such a manner that it may lead to the risk of re
or explosion.
• All possible ignition sources, including cigarette smoking, should be kept sufciently far away from the site of installation,
repairing, removing and disposal, during which ammable refrigerant can possibly be released to the surrounding space.
• Prior to working, the area around the equipment should be checked to make sure that there are no ammable hazards or
ignition risks. “No Smoking” signs shall be displayed.
6.7. Ventilated area
• Ensure that the installation area is outdoors or that it is adequately ventilated before dismantling the system or conducting
any hot work.
• Ventilation shall be kept during the period that the work is carried out.
• The ventilation should safely disperse any released refrigerant and preferably discharge it externally into the atmosphere.
6.8. Checking the refrigeration equipment
• Where electrical components are being changed, they shall be t for the purpose and the correct specication.
• 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 ammable refrigerants:
- The charge amount 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 used, the secondary circuit shall be checked for the leak of refrigerant;
- Marking of the equipment should be visible and legible. Illegible markings and signs shall be corrected;
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
HO2019289HA
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EN