HVAC maintenance is an essential part of keeping your air conditioning and heating system running smoothly. However, it can also be dangerous if not done correctly. From exposure to hazardous chemicals and pollutants to electrocution and burns, there are a variety of potential hazards that HVAC technicians must be aware of. In this article, we'll discuss 10 common safety hazards and HVAC control measures that can help minimize the risk of accidents or injuries. One of the major HVAC accidents experienced by the industry is exposure to hazardous chemicals and pollutants.
Technicians work with a variety of chemicals that can cause serious burns, such as refrigerants, cleaning fluids, solvents, and gases. HVAC work involves frequent interaction with electrical equipment and wiring. One wrong step can mean that you face harmful electrocution. Not only is electrocution harmful to the technician, but if fatigue is also a factor, a live, exposed cable left unattended could also harm the person it serves.
An electrical shock can occur in an instant and it can be difficult to tell if a cable is turned on or not. Therefore, electrocution safety should be one of the primary concerns of HVAC technicians at all times. Always carry the appropriate equipment needed to test the charge of cables before interacting with them, and always make sure to wear protective gloves when working with electricity. If necessary, you can also consider cutting off the power in the area you are working in before starting service as an additional precautionary measure. Any mechanical or electrical appliance carries the risk of certain hazards related to its use or maintenance, and your air conditioning and heating system is no exception.
So what HVAC safety risks should you be alert to when using or maintaining your system? Electric? Most electrical hazards related to your HVAC system have to do with wiring. While you're unlikely to access the electrical wires in your air conditioning system, you can take a look at the thermostat wires to see if they're worn out or loose. Throw the circuit breaker at the thermostat to cut off the power if you plan to tighten the wires or replace them. Chances are you're not charging the refrigerant in your own air conditioner. That's good, because only licensed professionals are allowed to handle refrigerants. However, if you have an R-22 leak in your old system and you have something handy, you might be tempted to charge it yourself.
Spilling this substance on you will not cause a chemical burn, but rather a painful frostbite. Always call a licensed HVAC professional to fill the refrigerant; if there is a leak, the technician must find and repair it. The furnace heat exchanger can crack and lose carbon monoxide (CO), a deadly gas. That's why it's important to have your HVAC technician check the furnace every year. The fumes can also come out of the flue pipes or the chimney.
CO buildup can also occur due to a dirty air filter, which can cause airflow to return to the oven. Install a CO detector and test it regularly. Before performing routine inspections or repairs, technicians should de-energize all equipment and ensure that it is properly grounded. In addition, technicians should always wear insulating gloves and use other tools to minimize the risk of electric shock. Anyone who has ever worked with heavy equipment knows that improper lifting techniques can result in serious injuries. The same is true for employees who work in the air conditioning industry.
Because they often have to lift heavy objects or perform repetitive movements, they are at risk of developing musculoskeletal injuries. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) estimates that more than 30 million workers are exposed to hazardous noise levels at work. While many industries have taken steps to reduce noise levels, it's still important to use hearing protection when using loud equipment. In addition, soundproofing measures can help reduce noise levels in the workplace, making it more comfortable for employees and customers. A fourth common safety hazard in the industrial maintenance of air conditioning and cooling systems is exposure to extreme temperatures. One of the most common and serious safety risks in the industrial maintenance of air conditioning and cooling systems is electrical shock.
Especially when working on commercial systems, HVAC technicians often find themselves in fairly high environments, whether they are on top of a roof or on a ladder, accessing ducts or vents on the roof or in the attic. The nature of an HVAC technician's job can place you in precarious positions because of where you work, how you work, and what equipment you work with. The air conditioning industry is responsible for heating, cooling, and cleaning the air in many types of buildings. Between open flames used in some heating equipment, natural heat that air conditioning and furnaces can produce, equipment exposed to direct sunlight, and welding (which is sometimes used during HVAC installations and repairs), there is no small chance for an HVAC technician getting slightly or severely burned. To avoid mechanical hazards, workers should always wear guards, shields, or covers; wear gloves and protective clothing; secure loose items; and use proper lifting techniques. To avoid chemical hazards, workers should always wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE); read and follow safety data sheets (SDS); store and handle chemicals properly; and dispose of waste safely. To prevent human factors from causing accidents or injuries on-site, workers should always follow standard operating procedures (SOP); attend regular training sessions; report any hazards or defects; maintain a culture of safety; and participate in continuing education programs. There are a variety of potential hazards in the HVAC industry but they can be prevented by providing employees with appropriate training and taking necessary safety precautions. It's also important for technicians to stay up-to-date with their knowledge by participating in continuing education programs.
