Handling Refrigerant

If refrigerant containers are opened, the contents may escape in liquid or vapor form. This process is intensified the higher the pressure in the container.

The pressure level is governed by two factors:

• The type of refrigerant in the container. "The lower the boiling point, the higher the pressure."
• The temperature level. "The higher the temperature, the higher the pressure."

Protective Eyewear 

Put on protective goggles. They prevent refrigerant getting into the eyes, as this could cause severe injury from exposure to cold.

Protective Gloves and Clothing 

Greases and oils dissolve readily in refrigerants. They would therefore destroy the protective layer of grease if allowed to come into contact with the skin. Degreased skin is however sensitive to the cold and germs.

Fluid Refrigerant and Skin Precaution 

The refrigerant draws heat for evaporation from the surrounding area. Even if this is the skin. This may cause extremely low temperatures. Local frost bite may result (boiling point of R134a: -26.5 °C (-15.7 °F) at ambient pressure).

Refrigerant Vapor Precaution 

If highly concentrated refrigerant vapor escapes, it mixes with the surrounding air and displaces the oxygen necessary for breathing.

Smoking Hazard 

A burning cigarette can cause refrigerant to decompose. The resultant substances are toxic and must not be inhaled.

Welding and Soldering on Refrigeration Systems 

Before performing welding or soldering work on vehicles near A/C system components, extract the refrigerant and remove remnants by blowing them out with nitrogen.

The products of refrigerant decomposition due to the effect of heat are not only toxic, but may also have a highly corrosive effect on lines and system components. They mainly take the form of hydrogen fluoride.

Pungent Odor 

A pungent odor indicates that the products of decomposition mentioned above have already formed. Avoid inhaling these substances under all circumstances, as otherwise the respiratory system, lungs and other organs could be damaged.

First Aid 

• Following contact with eyes or mucous membranes, immediately rinse with copious amounts of running water and consult an eye specialist.
• Following contact with the skin, immediately remove affected clothing and rinse skin with copious amounts of water.
• Following inhalation of highly concentrated refrigerant vapors, immediately take the affected person into the open air. Call a doctor. Administer oxygen in the event of breathing difficulties. If the affected person has difficulty breathing or cannot breathe, tip head back and perform mouth to mouth respiration.

Also refer to HANDLING PRESSURE CONTAINERS