1
1. FOREWORD
1.1 Read the Manual Before Operation
WARNING
Do not use methods to accelerate the defrosting process or to clean, other than those recommended
by the manufacturer. The appliance shall be stored in a room without continuously operating ignition
sources (for example: open flames, an operating gas appliance or an operating electric heater.
Do not pierce or burn.
Be aware that refrigerants may not contain an odour.
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.
Checks to the area
Prior to beginning work on systems containing flammable refrigerants, safety checks are necessary
to ensure that the risk of ignition is minimized. For repair to the refrigerating system, the following
precautions shall be completed prior to conducting work on the system.
Work procedure
Work shall be undertaken under a controlled procedure so as to minimize the risk of a flammable gas
or vapor 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 confined spaces shall be avoided.
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 flammable atmospheres. Ensure that the leak detection
equipment being used is suitable for use with flammable refrigerants, i.e. nonspeaking, adequately
sealed or intrinsically safe.
Presence of fire extinguisher
If any hot work is to be conducted on the refrigerating equipment or any associated parts, appropriate
fire extinguishing equipment shall be available to hand. Have a dry powder or CO2 fire 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 that contains or has contained flammable refrigerant shall 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
To Next Page
Loading...