Hazardous Material HVAC safety talk

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Material peligroso HVAC

HVAC workers can encounter various hazardous materials daily including cleaning fluids, refrigerants, detergents, and solvents. Under the right circumstances, each of these can be a serious risk to life and health.

Chemical exposure occurs in four different ways:

  • Inhalation – breathing in dust, mists, and vapors.
  • Ingestion – eating contaminated food (food exposed to airborne contaminants).
  • Absorption – skin contact with a chemical.
  • Injection – forcing an agent into the body through a needle or high-pressure device.

Protect against chemical hazards by:

  • Reading container labels, safety data sheets (SDS), and safe-work instructions before handling a chemical.
  • Using specified personal protective equipment (PPE) that may include chemical-splash goggles, a respirator, safety gloves, an apron, steel-toed shoes, or safety glasses with side shields.
  • Inspect all PPE before use; look for defects in the equipment such as cracks, missing parts, rips, etc.
  • Know where the safety showers and eyewash stations are located and how to use them.
  • Wash hands before eating, especially after handling chemicals
  • Leave contaminated clothing at work to eliminate the possibility of exposing others to hazards.
  • Always be familiar with the chemicals that are being used, safe transportation, and storage guidelines.
  • New technicians should take extra time to become familiar with the chemicals before using them.

Disclaimer:

This article is provided solely as a reference tool to be used for information purposes only. The information in this article shall not be construed or interpreted as providing legal or any other advice. The information material does not amend the provisions of any insurance policy issued by CompSource Mutual. It is not a representation that coverage does or does not exist for any particular claim or loss under any such policy. Coverage depends on the facts and circumstances involved in the claim or loss, all applicable policy provisions, and any applicable law.

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