Refrigeration Systems
Refrigeration systems are important in many types of vessels, but also introduces a hazard potential because of the gas they use and the pressure under which they operate. Familiarise yourself with the following safety guidelines:
- Ammonia and other refrigerant cylinders should preferably be stored in an open, well-ventilated area.
- Don’t smoke or use open flame in refrigeration areas. Purge the area completely before beginning welding or soldering operations – and test for explosive hazards.
- If you suspect a toxic hazard, get out of the area immediately and report the problem to the skipper. Refrigerants that have leaked or escaped into enclosed spaces create highly dangerous toxic hazards.
- If someone collapses in a refrigeration area, call for help, and don't go after him without a breathing apparatus.
Refrigeration spaces should be provided with:
- Tight fitting doors that can be operated from both sides.
- Alarms inside the space that generate a signal to the control station /bridge.
- Emergency lighting / signs that indicate the location of the exit door in the event the lights fail.
- A separate venting system for extracting leaking refrigerants, ensuring that this is separate from venting in accommodation or work spaces.
- The controls for the venting system must be operable from both inside and outside the refrigeration space.
- A portable means of detecting concentrations of harmful leaking gas. These should be used at all times, and regularly checked for correct functioning.
- A clear means of escape from spaces where toxic refrigerants are used, leading to the weather deck – and these routes must be clearly marked.
- Locate at least one approved breathing apparatus adjacent to the refrigeration area. Ensure that this equipment is always accessible in the event of a leakage.
Always open containers holding refrigerant slowly and carefully, and protect against damage from bumps or shocks. Don't permit them to be overturned, dumped, dropped or rolled. Use the required PPE, like a face guard as protection against liquid refrigerants. Protect containers from heat radiation.
