Pro-Elec PEL01201 - Presence of fire extinguisher; No ignition sources; Ventilated area; Checks to the refrigeration equipment

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Presence of re extinguisher
• If any hot work is to be conducted on the refrigeration equipment or any associated
parts, appropriate re extinguishing equipment shall be available to hand. Have a
dry powder or CO2 re extinguisher adjacent to the charging area.
No ignition sources
• Any 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 sufciently 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 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 specication. 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:
1. The charge size is in accordance with the room size within which the
refrigerant containing parts are installed.
2. The ventilation machinery and outlets are operating adequately and are not
obstructed.
3. If an indirect refrigerating circuit is being used, the secondary circuit shall be
checked for the presence of refrigerant.
4. Marking to the equipment continues to be visible and legible. Markings and
signs that are illegible shall be replaced.
5. 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 of materials
which are inherently resistant to corrosion or are suitably protected against
corrosion.
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.