Technician Safety Information

R-12 DESCRIPTION AND PRECAUTIONS
The refrigerant used in the air conditioning system is R-12. R-12 is non-explosive, non-flammable and non-corrosive. It has practically no odor and is heavier than air. Although it is classified as a safe refrigerant, certain precautions must be observed to protect the parts involved and the person working on the unit. Use only R-12 such as Motorcraft YN-1A or YN-7 or equivalent. Do not use refrigerant that was canned for pressure-operated accessories (such as boat air horns). This type is not pure R-12 and will cause a malfunction.

R-12 PERSONAL INJURY AND TREATMENT
Liquid R-12, at normal atmospheric pressures and temperatures, evaporates so quickly that it has the tendency to freeze anything it contacts. For this reason, extreme care must be taken to prevent any liquid refrigerant from coming in contact with the skin and especially the eyes.

R-12 is readily absorbed by most types of oil. For this reason, a bottle of sterile mineral oil and a quantity of weak boric acid solution must always be kept nearby when servicing the air conditioning system. Should any liquid refrigerant get into the eyes, immediately use a few drops of mineral oil to wash them out, then wash the eyes clean with the weak boric acid solution. Seek a doctor's aid immediately even though irritation may have ceased.

R-12 PERSONAL PROTECTION
Always wear safety goggles such as Rotunda Safety Shield Goggles 063-00003 or equivalent when servicing any part of the refrigerant system. The R-12 in the system is always under pressure. Because the system is tightly sealed, heat applied to any part could cause this pressure to build up excessively.

WARNING: To avoid an explosion never weld, solder, steam clean, bake body finishes or use a blow torch or excessive heat on or in the immediate area of refrigerant system components or supply tank (whether filled with refrigerant or not) unless the system and tank are open to the atmosphere.

R-12 STORAGE AND HANDLING
Ensure that R-12 is both stored and installed in accordance with all applicable state and local ordinances.

When admitting R-12 gas into the cooling unit, always keep the tank in an upright position. If the tank is on its side or upside down, liquid R-12 will enter the system and may damage the compressor.