Regulations & SafetyQuestion 51 of 240
A technician is brazing near a line that still contains R-22 vapor. Why is exposing refrigerant to an open flame or very high heat dangerous?
a.It can decompose into toxic gases such as phosgene and HCl
b.It turns the refrigerant into harmless water vapor
c.It permanently improves the refrigerant's cooling ability
d.It has no effect because refrigerants are inert
Explanation
When refrigerant contacts an open flame or very high heat, it can thermally decompose into toxic and corrosive gases such as phosgene, hydrogen chloride, and hydrogen fluoride, which are hazardous to breathe. It does not become harmless water vapor, improve performance, or stay inert. Systems should be recovered and purged before any hot work is performed nearby.
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