This paper concerns refrigerant gases classified as Division 2.1 flammable gases under the Australian Dangerous Goods Code (ADG Code) or classified as Flammable Gas Category 1 using the Globally Harmonized System (GHS). It covers general work health and safety/occupational health and safety (WHS/OHS) duties, however, readers should check their legislative responsibilities at the state/territory and Commonwealth level in relation to working with rxefrigerants.
It includes information on:
- the use of flammable refrigerant gases in stationary and mobile (vehicle) workplace environments (including fixed or portable plant);
- how to manage the risk of fire and explosion from refrigeration and air-conditioning systems1 containing flammable refrigerant gases and
- the storage and handling of flammable refrigerant gases.
Whilst refrigerant gases may have one or more of a number of hazards (e.g., toxicity, irritant properties, flammability, environmental hazards) this paper focuses on the issue of flammability. The general duty of care provisions in the WHS/ OHS legislation apply to all workplace hazards, including those not in the scope of this paper such as Flammable Gas Category 2 substances.
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