Emergency Procedures for Leaks and Fires Flashcards
6 cards from real A2L practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 Emergency Procedures for Leaks and Fires flashcards as text
If a large A2L refrigerant leak is detected in an enclosed space, what is the first action?
Answer: Evacuate the area, ventilate the space, and eliminate ignition sources before re-entering
Safety first: evacuate to prevent exposure, ventilate to dilute the refrigerant below dangerous concentrations, and remove ignition sources. Only then investigate the leak source.
What type of fire extinguisher is recommended for an A2L refrigerant fire?
Answer: Dry chemical (ABC) or CO2 extinguisher
Dry chemical (ABC) and CO2 extinguishers are effective on A2L refrigerant fires. Water can be used for cooling surrounding areas but is not the primary agent for the refrigerant fire itself.
What toxic byproduct is produced when A2L refrigerants burn or decompose from high heat?
Answer: Hydrogen fluoride (HF) — a highly corrosive and toxic gas
When fluorinated A2L refrigerants (like R-32 or R-454B) burn or are exposed to open flames, they decompose and produce hydrogen fluoride (HF), which is extremely toxic and corrosive.
A technician detects a refrigerant odor in a mechanical room. The leak detector reads above the LFL. What should they NOT do?
Answer: Use a cell phone or radio to call for help while still in the room
Electronic devices including cell phones and radios can produce sparks that could ignite a flammable concentration. Communication should happen after exiting the contaminated space.
What emergency information should be readily available at any job site where A2L refrigerants are being serviced?
Answer: Safety Data Sheets (SDS), emergency contact numbers, evacuation routes, and the location of fire extinguishers and ventilation controls
Complete emergency preparedness includes SDS for the specific refrigerant, emergency contacts (fire dept, poison control), clear evacuation routes, and knowledge of safety equipment locations.
If a person is exposed to high concentrations of A2L refrigerant vapor, what first aid should be administered?
Answer: Move them to fresh air immediately, monitor breathing, and seek medical attention
Immediate removal to fresh air is critical. High-concentration exposure can cause dizziness, asphyxiation, or cardiac effects. Medical evaluation should follow any significant exposure.