To minimize ignition risk around a flammable refrigerant system during service, which safety measure should be implemented?

To minimize ignition risk around a flammable refrigerant system during service, which safety measure should be implemented?

• A. Increase ventilation
• B. Designate a safe perimeter around the work area
• C. Move equipment outdoors
• D. Remove all electrical equipment

Answer: (B)

Controlling ignition risk with flammable refrigerants relies on creating a defined, controlled zone where ignition sources are restricted. Establishing a safe perimeter around the work area sets clear boundaries so smoking, hot work, open flames, and unnecessary electrical equipment are kept out, and only authorized personnel can enter with proper precautions. This boundary makes it easier to enforce no-ignition rules and ensures everyone knows the limits of the work area, reducing the chance that an ignition source reaches the refrigerant vapors. While additional measures like increasing ventilation can help dilute vapors and other options might be situational, they don’t provide the same level of access control and source elimination as a designated perimeter.

Controlling ignition risk with flammable refrigerants relies on creating a defined, controlled zone where ignition sources are restricted. Establishing a safe perimeter around the work area sets clear boundaries so smoking, hot work, open flames, and unnecessary electrical equipment are kept out, and only authorized personnel can enter with proper precautions. This boundary makes it easier to enforce no-ignition rules and ensures everyone knows the limits of the work area, reducing the chance that an ignition source reaches the refrigerant vapors.

While additional measures like increasing ventilation can help dilute vapors and other options might be situational, they don’t provide the same level of access control and source elimination as a designated perimeter.