I.5
WARNINGS REGARDING POTENTIALLY TOXIC
SUBSTANCES
DANGER!
Read the following ecological information and
requirements about the refrigerants employed
carefully.
I.5.1.1
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.5.1.2
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.5.1.3
Main Ecological Information Regarding the
Types of Refrigerant Fluids Used
Persistence, degradation and environmental impact
Fluid
Chemical formula
R32
CH
2
R125
C
HF
2
HFC R32 and R125 refrigerants are the single components which make
up R410A when mixed at 50%. 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
index that measures the behaviour of the refrigerant to the
anthropogenic greenhouse effect is the GWP (Global Warming
Potential). The standard GWP index 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 1 kg refrigerant released
over the same period of time.
The R410A mixture does not contain elements that are harmful to the
ozone, such as chlorine, therefore its ODP (Ozone Depletion Potential)
is zero (ODP=0).
Refrigerant
Components
Composition
GWP (over 100 years)
SAFEGUARD THE ENVIRONMENT!
The hydrofluorocarbons contained in the unit
cannot be released into the atmosphere as they are
fluid that contributes to the greenhouse effect.
R32 and R125 are derived from hydrocarbons that decompose
relatively quickly into the lower atmosphere (troposphere).
Decomposition products are highly dispersible and therefore have a
very low concentration. They do not affect the photochemical smog, i.e.
they are not classified among VOC volatile organic compounds,
according to the UNECE agreement.
Effects on effluent treatment
Product waste released into the atmosphere does not cause long-term
water contamination.
Personal 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
3400
5
2
released over a period of 100 years, in
2
R410A
R32 /
R125
50/50
ODP
0
2000
Handling
Avoid inhalation of high concentrations of vapour. The atmospheric
concentration must be minimised and maintained at this minimum level,
below the occupational exposure limits. The vapours are heavier than
air, and therefore high concentrations may form close to the floor where
overall ventilation is poor. In this case, ensure adequate ventilation.
Avoid contact with naked flames and hot surfaces, which could lead to
the formation of irritant and toxic decomposition by-products. Do not
allow the liquid to come into contact with eyes or skin.
Measures to be taken in case of an accidental leak
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, basements or work pits,
as they can create a stifling environment.
I.5.1.4
Inhalation
A high atmospheric concentration can cause anaesthetic effects with
possible loss of consciousness. Prolonged exposure may lead to an
irregular heartbeat and cause sudden death.
Higher concentrations can cause asphyxia due to the reduced oxygen
content in the atmosphere.
Contact with skin
Splashes of nebulised liquid can produce frostbite. Unlikely to be
hazardous if absorbed through the skin. Repeated or prolonged contact
may remove the skin's natural oils, with consequent dryness, cracking
) is 1.
and dermatitis.
Contact with eyes
Splashes of liquid can cause frostbite.
Ingestion
While highly improbable, may produce frostbite.
I.5.1.5
Inhalation
Move the person away from the source of exposure, 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.
7
DANGER!
Users and maintenance personnel must be
adequately trained about the risks involved when
handling potentially toxic substances. Failure to
comply with the above-mentioned guidelines can
cause personal injury or damage the unit.
Main Toxicological Information on the Type
of Refrigerant Used
First Aid Measures
SECTION I: USER