
2.2.6 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 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.
2.2.7 Ventilated area
Ensure that the area is in the open air 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.
2.2.9 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.
Initial safety checks shall include:
- those capacitors are discharged: this shall be done in a safe manner to
avoid possibility of sparking;
- that there no live electrical components and wiring are exposed while
charging, recovering or purging the system;
- that there is continuity of earth bonding.
2.2.8 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.
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;
– Marking to the equipment continues to be visible and legible. Markings and
signs that are illegible shall be corrected;
– 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 being corroded or are suitably protected
against being so corroded.
2.2.5 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 CO2 fire extinguisher adjacent to the
charging area.
WARNING!
Install the unit in rooms which exceed 43sq.ft(4 m²).
Do not install the unit in a place where inflammable gas may
leak.
NOTE!
The manufacturer may provide other suitable example or
may provide additional information about the refrigerant
odour.
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