I.3
WARNINGS REGARDING POTENTIALLY
TOXIC SUBSTANCES
DANGER!
Read the ecological information and the following
instructions regarding the refrigerant fluids used
carefully.
I.3.1.1 Identification of the type of refrigerant fluid
used
• Difluoromethane (HFC 32) 50% by weight
CAS No.: 000075-10-5
• Pentafluoroethane (HFC 125) 50% by weight
CAS No.: 000354-33-6
I.3.1.2 Identification of the type of oil used
The lubricant used in the unit is polyester oil; please refer to the
indications on the compressor data plate.
DANGER!
For further information regarding the
characteristics of the refrigerant and oil used, refer
to the safety data sheets available from the
refrigerant and oil manufacturers.
I.3.1.3 Main ecological information regarding the
types of refrigerant fluids used
• Persistence, degradation and environmental impact
Refrigerant
Chemical formula
R32
CH
R125
C
HF
2
HFC R32 and R125 refrigerants are the single components which
mixed at 50% make up R410A. They belong to the hydrofluorocarbons
group and are regulated by the Kyoto protocol (1997 and subsequent
revisions) being gases that contribute to the greenhouse effect. The
measure of how much a given mass of greenhouse gas is estimated to
contribute to global warming is GWP (Global Warming Potential). The
standard measure for carbon dioxide (CO
The value of GWP assigned to each refrigerant represents the
equivalent amount in kg of CO
order to have the same greenhouse effect of 1kg refrigerant released
over the same period of time.
The R410A mixture does not contribute to ozone depletion unlike
Chlorine, therefore its ODP (Ozone Depletion Potential) is zero
(ODP=0).
Refrigerant
Components
Composition
GWP (over 100 years)
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION!
The hydrofluorocarbons contained in the unit
cannot be released into the atmosphere as they are
gases that contribute to the greenhouse effect.
R32 and R125 hydrocarbons which decompose rapidly into the lower
atmosphere (troposphere). Decomposition by-products are highly
dispersible and thus have a very low concentration. They have no
influence on photochemical smog (that is, they are not classified among
VOC volatile organic compounds, according to the guidelines
established by the UNECE agreement).
• Effects on effluent treatment
Waste products released into the atmosphere do not produce long-term
water contamination.
• Individual protection/exposure control
Use protective clothing and gloves; protect eyes and face.
• Professional exposure limits:
R410A
HFC 32
TWA 1000 ppm
HFC 125
TWA 1000 ppm
GWP (over 100 years)
F
550
2
2
3400
5
) is GWP=1.
2
released over a period of 100 years, in
2
R410A
R32/R125
50/50
ODP
0
2000
• Handling
DANGER!
Users and maintenance personnel must be
adequately informed about the risks of handling
potentially toxic substances. Failure to observe the
aforesaid indications may cause personal injury or
damage the unit.
Avoid inhalation of high concentrations of vapour. Atmospheric
concentration must be reduced to a minimum and maintained at this
minimum level, well beneath professional exposure limits. Vapour is
heavier than air, and thus hazardous concentrations may form close to
the floor, where overall ventilation may be poor. In this case, ensure
adequate ventilation. Avoid contact with naked flames and hot surfaces,
which could lead to the formation of irritating and toxic products of
decomposition. Do not allow the liquid to come into contact with eyes or
skin.
• Procedure in case of accidental refrigerant escape
Ensure adequate personal protection (using means of respiratory
protection) during clean-up operations. If the conditions are sufficiently
safe, isolate the source of leak.
If the amount of the spill is limited, let the material evaporate, as long as
adequate ventilation can be ensured. If the spill is considerable,
ventilate the area adequately.
Contain the spilt material with sand, soil, or other suitable absorbent
material.
Prevent the liquid from entering drains, sewers, underground facilities or
manholes, because suffocating vapours may form.
I.3.1.4 Main toxicological information on the type of
refrigerant used
• Inhalation
A high atmospheric concentration can cause anaesthetic effects with
possible loss of consciousness. Prolonged exposure may lead to
irregular heartbeat and cause sudden death.
Higher concentrations may cause asphyxia due to the reduced oxygen
content in the atmosphere.
• Contact with skin
Splashes of nebulized liquid can produce frostbite. Probably not
hazardous if absorbed through the skin. Repeated or prolonged contact
may remove the skin's natural oils, with consequent dryness, cracking
and dermatitis.
• Contact with eyes
Splashing liquid may cause frostbite.
• Ingestion
While highly improbable, may produce frostbite.
I.3.1.5 First aid measures
• Inhalation
Move the person away from the source of exposure area, keep him/her
warm and let him/her rest. Administer oxygen if necessary. Attempt
artificial respiration if breathing has stopped or shows signs of stopping.
In the case of cardiac arrest carry out heart massage and seek
immediate medical assistance.
• Contact with skin
In case of contact with skin, wash immediately with lukewarm water.
Thaw tissue using water. Remove contaminated clothing. Clothing may
stick to the skin in case of frostbite. If irritation, swelling or blisters
appear, seek medical assistance.
• Contact with eyes
Rinse immediately using an eyewash or clean water, keeping eyelids
open, for at least ten minutes.
Seek medical assistance.
• Ingestion
Do not induce vomiting. If the injured person is conscious, rinse his/her
mouth with water and make him/her drink 200-300 ml of water.
Seek immediate medical assistance.
• Further medical treatment
Treat symptoms and carry out support therapy as indicated. Do not
administer adrenaline or similar sympathomimetic drugs following
exposure, due to the risk of cardiac arrhythmia.
30
SECTION I: USER