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16. Information on servicing:
1) 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 complied with prior to conducting work on the system.
2) 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.
3) 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. The area around the
workspace shall be sectioned off. Ensure that the conditions within the area have been made
safe by control of flammable material
4) 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.
non-sparking, adequately sealed or intrinsically safe.
5) Presence of fire extinguisher
If any hot work is to be conducted on the refrigeration equipment or any associated parts,
appropriate fire extinguishing equipment shall be available to hand. Have a dry powder or CO
2
fire extinguisher adjacent to the charging area.
6) 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 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 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.
7) 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.
8) 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.
INSTRUCTION FOR SERVICING(R32)
15
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