EPA 609 Safety & Environmental Practices

Question 1

What personal protective equipment (PPE) should be worn when handling refrigerants?

Accepted Answer

Safety glasses and gloves rated for refrigerant exposure

Answer

At minimum, safety glasses and gloves should be worn to protect against refrigerant splashes, which can cause frostbite and eye damage.

Question 2

What should be done immediately if liquid refrigerant splashes in your eyes?

Accepted Answer

Flush immediately with large amounts of water for 15 minutes and seek medical attention

Answer

Refrigerant in the eyes requires immediate flushing with water for at least 15 minutes followed by prompt medical evaluation.

Question 3

Refrigerant stored in a hot environment (above 125°F/52°C) poses what risk?

Accepted Answer

Cylinder pressure increases and may cause rupture or pressure relief valve activation

Answer

High temperatures increase cylinder pressure dramatically; cylinders must be stored below 125°F to prevent relief valve discharge or catastrophic failure.

Question 4

What hazardous gas can form when refrigerant contacts an open flame or very hot surface?

Accepted Answer

Phosgene or hydrofluoric acid gas

Answer

When refrigerants decompose in flames, they can produce phosgene (from CFCs) or hydrofluoric acid (from HFCs), both of which are extremely toxic.

Question 5

Refrigerant work areas should have:

Accepted Answer

Adequate ventilation to prevent refrigerant accumulation at floor level

Answer

Refrigerant vapors are heavier than air and accumulate at floor level, where they can displace oxygen and cause asphyxiation in enclosed spaces.

EPA 609 - EPA Section 609 Refrigerant Certification Practice Test

EPA 609 - EPA Section 609 Refrigerant Certification Practice Test

EPA 609 Safety & Environmental Practices