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►Checks to the area
Prior to beginning work on systems containing ammable refrigerants, safety checks are necessary to ensure that the risk of ig-
nition is minimised.
For repair to the refrigerating system, following precautions shall be taken prior to conducting work on the system.
►W
ork procedure
Work shall be undertaken under a controlled procedure so as to minimise the risk of a ammable gas or vapour being present
while the work is being performed.
►General work 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 control of ammable materials.
►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 toxic or ammable atmospheres.
Ensure that the leak detection equipment being used is suitable for use with all applicable refrigerants, i.e.
non-sparking, adequately sealed or intrinsically safe.
►Presence of re extinguisher
If any hot work is to be conducted on the refrigeration equipment or any associated parts, appropriate re extinguishing equip
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ment shall be available to hand. Have a dry powder or CO2 re extinguisher adjacent to the charging area.
►No ignition sources
No
person carrying out work in relation to a refrigeration system which involves exposing any pipe work 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, re
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pairing, removing and disposal, during which 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 ammable 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
Where electrical components are being changed, they shall be t for the purpose and to the correct specication. At all times the
manufacturer’s maintenance and service guidelines shall be followed. If in doubt consult the manufacturer’s technical depart
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ment for assistance.
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