R-134A Health & Safety Information; Inhalation Toxicity; Cardiac Sensitization; Spills Or Leaks - Electrolux Side by Side Refrigerators Service Manual

R-134A HEALTH AND SAFETY INFORMATION

INHALATION TOXICITY

HFC-134a poses no acute or chronic hazard when it is
handled in accordance with DuPont recommendations
and when exposures are maintained at or below the
DuPont Acceptable Exposure Limit (AEL) of 1,000 ppm
(8 and 12 hour Time-Weighted Average or TWA).
An AEL is an airborne exposure limit established by
DuPont scientists that specifies time-weighted average
(TWA) airborne concentrations to which nearly all work-
ers may be repeatedly exposed without adverse effects.
The AEL for HFC-134a has the same value as the
Threshold Limit Values (TLVs) established for
12 and HCFC-22. TLVs are established by the American
Conference of Governmental and Industrial Hygienists
(ACGIH).
However, inhaling high concentrations of HFC-134a
vapor may cause temporary central nervous system
depression with narcosis, lethargy and anesthetic effects.
Other effects that may occur include dizziness, a
feeling of intoxication and a loss of coordination.
Continued breathing of high concentrations of HFC-134a
vapors may produce cardiac irregularities (cardiac
sensitization), unconsciousness, and with gross
overexposure, death. Intentional misuse or deliberate
inhalation of HFC-134a may cause death without warning.
This practice is extremely dangerous.
If you experience any of the initial symptoms, move to
fresh air and seek medical attention.

CARDIAC SENSITIZATION

If vapors are inhaled at a concentration of 75,000 ppm,
which is well above the AEL, the heart may become
sensitized to adrenaline, leading to cardiac
irregularities and, possibly, to cardiac arrest. The
likelihood of these cardiac problems increases if you are
under physical or emotional stress.
Medical attention must be given immediately if
exposed to high concentrations of HFC-134a. DO NOT
treat with adrenaline (epinephrine) or similar drugs.
These drugs may increase the risk of cardiac arrhythmias
and cardiac arrest. If the person is having difficulty
breathing, administer oxygen. If breathing has stopped,
give artificial respiration.

SPILLS OR LEAKS

If a large release of vapor occurs, such as from a large
spill or leak, the vapors may concentrate near the floor
or low spots and displace the oxygen available for
breathing, causing suffocation.
Evacuate everyone until the area has been ventilated.
Use blowers or fans to circulate the air at floor level. DO
NOT reenter the affected area unless you are equipped
with a self-contained breathing apparatus or unless an
area monitor indicates that the concentration of
HFC-134a vapors in the area is below the AEL.
Always use self-contained breathing apparatus or an air-
line mask when entering tanks or other areas where
vapors might exist. Use the buddy system and a lifeline.
Refer to the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for
HFC-134a for more information.
CFC-
HFC-134a vapors have a slightly sweet odor that can be
difficult to detect. Therefore, frequent leak checks and
the installation of permanent area monitors may be
necessary in enclosed spaces. Refer to ASHRAE
Standards 15 and 34 for refrigeration machinery rooms.
To ensure safety when working with HFC-134a in en-
closed areas:
1. Route relief and purge vent piping (if present)
outdoors, away from air intakes.
2. Make certain area is well ventilated, using
auxiliary ventilation, if necessary, to move vapors.
3. Make sure area is clear of vapors prior to
beginning work.
4. Install air monitoring equipment to detect leaks.

SKIN AND EYE CONTACT

At room temperature, HFC-134a vapors have little or no
effect on the skin or eyes. However, in liquid form,
HFC-134a can freeze skin or eyes on contact, causing
frostbite. Following contact, soak the exposed area in
lukewarm water, not cold or hot. If medical treatment
cannot begin immediately, apply a light coat of a
nonmedicated ointment, such as petroleum jelly. If the
exposed area is in a location where the presence of the
ointment would be awkward, such as on the eye, apply
a light bandage. In all cases of frostbite, seek medical
attention as soon as possible.
Always wear protective clothing when there is a risk of
exposure to liquid HFC-134a. Where splashing is possible,
always wear eye protection and a face shield.
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