TM 9-2320-302-34
0009 00-4
AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEM TROUBLESHOOTING AND TESTING - CONTINUED
0009 00
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS - CONTINUED
WARNING
Do not work in an area where refrigerant may contact an open flame or any burning material, such as a ciga-
rette. When it contacts extreme heat, refrigerant breaks down into poisonous phosgene gas which, if
breathed, causes severe respiratory irritation. Do not breathe the fumes from an open flame leak detector.
5.
Even though refrigerant does not burn, when it contacts extreme heat or flame, poisonous phosgene gas is created. This
gas is also produced when an open flame leak detector is used. Phosgene fumes have an acrid (bitter) smell.
6.
You must work in an area where there is a constant flow of fresh air when the system is discharged, flushed, charged,
and leak tested using an open flame leak detector.
7.
Changes in both federal and state laws will affect the way dealerships service air conditioning systems. Under current
federal laws, refrigerant must be recovered and recycled by all users to protect the environment, and not released into
the atmosphere. Many service operations not directly involving the air conditioning system require the release of the
refrigerant charge. Under the new regulations, dealerships not having the required recovery and recycling equipment
(and properly trained and certified personnel) will not be allowed to do any of this service work.
8.
Because of its very low boiling point, refrigerant must be stored under pressure. To prevent the refrigerant cans from
exploding, never expose them to temperatures higher than 125°F (52°C). Never leave refrigerant cans in the sun, and do
not store them in sun-exposed areas where heat can build up, such as in gloveboxes, automobile trunks, etc.
