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 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 shall be displayed.
General Warnings
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 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 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
shall be checked for the presence of refrigerant.
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