6)No ignition sources
No person carrying out work in relation to a refrigerating 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 su ciently far away from the site of installation, repairing, remov-
ing and disposal, during which flammable refrigerant can possibly be released
to the surrounding space. Prior to work taking place, the area around the equip-
ment 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 refrigerating equipment
Where electrical components are being changed, they shall be fit for the pur-
pose and to the correct specification. At all times the manufacturer's mainte-
nance and service guidelines shall be followed. If in doubt consult the manufac-
turer's technical department for assistance. The following checks shall be
applied to installations using flammable refrigerants:
The actual refrigerant charge 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 equip-
ment continues to be visible and legible. Markings and signs that are illegible
shall be corrected; Refrigerating 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 pro-
tected against being so corroded.
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 com-
promise 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:
That 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 conti-
nuity of earth bonding
.
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