Back to HVAC/R Toolkit
    HVAC/R Toolkit

    PPE & Safety Quick-Card

    Required PPE, exposure limits, and first-aid notes per refrigerant.

    PPE Safety Reference

    Select a refrigerant to view required PPE, exposure limits, and first-aid guidance based on OSHA, ASHRAE, and ACGIH standards.

    Refrigerant
    Safety Group: A1non-flammable (Class 1)lower toxicity (Class A)
    Exposure Limits (PEL / TLV / REL)
    OEL: 1000 ppm
    Source: OSHA PEL / ACGIH TLV-TWA

    Ceiling limit in some jurisdictions; cardiac sensitization at very high conc. ASHRAE 34 OEL 1000 ppm (pre-2022 addendum showed 5000 ppm ASHRAE 34 RCL-based). Montreal Protocol CFC - fully phased out.

    Required PPE
    • Eyes: Chemical splash goggles; face shield for transfer operations
    • Hands: Insulated thermal/cryogenic gloves when handling liquid (boils near room temp at -23.8°F); chemical-resistant gloves
    • Body: Long sleeves; chemical-resistant apron or coveralls for bulk handling
    • Respiratory: No respirator required for routine work below OEL; SCBA or airline respirator if spill or confined-space entry above 1000 ppm
    • Feet: Steel-toe leather boots
    First-Aid Notes
    • Skin: Flush with lukewarm water 15+ min; remove contaminated clothing; treat frostbite - do not rub; seek medical attention if symptoms persist
    • Eyes: Flush with water 15+ min holding lids open; seek immediate medical attention
    • Inhalation: Remove to fresh air; administer oxygen if breathing labored; CPR if not breathing; call 911. Avoid exertion - cardiac sensitization risk
    • Ingestion: Not applicable (gas/liquid at room temp); if liquid ingested seek immediate medical attention
    Ventilation Requirements
    Min ACH: 4

    Ventilate area; no ignition sources (refrigerant itself non-flammable, but thermal decomposition produces phosgene/HF/HCl at high temps); evacuate if above OEL

    Spill Response

    Evacuate non-essential personnel min 25 ft; ventilate; PPE per above; do not enter low-lying areas (vapor heavier than air); report releases >100 lbs per EPA CAA

    Fire Response

    Non-flammable; decomposition products (HCl, HF, phosgene) toxic - use SCBA. Class B/C extinguisher for surrounding materials