What safety precautions should be taken when handling refrigerants?

The correct answer encompasses a comprehensive approach to safety when handling refrigerants. Each aspect mentioned is vital in ensuring the safety of personnel and the environment.

Using personal protective equipment (PPE) is crucial because refrigerants can be hazardous to health. PPE such as gloves, goggles, and appropriate clothing helps protect against skin contact and inhalation of harmful substances.

Ensuring proper ventilation is essential as many refrigerants can displace oxygen or emit harmful gases when leaked. Adequate ventilation reduces the risk of asphyxiation or respiratory issues by allowing the safe dispersal of any harmful vapors.

Following handling procedures to avoid exposure is important because proper protocols establish guidelines on how to safely manipulate refrigerants. This includes understanding how to use tools correctly, knowing the correct ways to connect and disconnect equipment, and being aware of the behavior of the refrigerant in case of a leak.

Combining these practices forms a holistic safety strategy, emphasizing that all of these precautions work together to significantly reduce risks associated with refrigerant handling.