Table of Contents
What happens if you breathe R134a?
The inhalation of high concentrations of R134a vapour may cause temporary central nervous system depression, with narcosis, lethargy and anaesthetic effects. Continued breathing of high concentrations of R134a vapours may produce cardiac irregularities, unconsciousness and death.
Is r134 toxic to humans?
No toxicity data are available on humans following exposure to HFC-134a. Animal studies indicate that HFC-134a has a low level of systemic toxicity following acute, subacute, subchronic, and chronic exposures.
Is R134a safe?
R134a is very low toxic, non-flammable in the air, safety class A1, is a very safe refrigerant. Market Insight: Where Will R134A Refrigerant go? R134A, also known as tetrafluoroethane (CF3CH2F), is a family of HFC refrigerants.
What does Freon smell like in a refrigerator?
Freon and other types of refrigerant emit an almost musty smell, particularly if your refrigerator is in a contained space, such as your garage. While you may not be familiar with what freon smells like, that odd, musty smell may actually be a result of a leak.
Is it illegal to release R134a into the air?
R134a is not an ozone-destroying agent, but it is a greenhouse gas, and is illegal to vent as well.
What are the side effects of a Freon leak?
Signs you’re suffering from refrigerant poisoning include:
- Swelling in your throat or sinuses.
- Difficulty breathing.
- Severe pain in your nose, throat, or sinuses.
- Burning sensation on your eyes, nose, ears, lips, or tongue.
- Vision loss.
- Severe stomach pain.
- Vomiting or diarrhea.
- Indigestion or heartburn.
Can you get refrigerant poisoning from accidental exposure?
Though not as common, it is possible to get refrigerant poisoning from accidental exposure. This is most likely to occur if a person works in a facility that uses refrigerants. Accidental exposure may also occur from working on products that contain the chemicals.
Are refrigerants used in refrigerators toxic?
Modern refrigerants such as R12, R22, R134a — in other words, the stuff used in most modern household electric refrigerators, dehumidifiers and air conditioners since the mid 1900’s — are not poisonous per se. But they displace breathable air in your lungs, which can be suffocating if you breath in too much for too long.
What should I do if I accidentally inhale refrigerants?
If a person suspects they have inhaled refrigerants accidentally, they should contact the emergency services immediately. Symptoms of refrigerant poisoning vary based on exposure. If exposure happens accidentally due to a leaking appliance in a well-ventilated area, poisoning is not likely to occur. Accidental poisoning is rare.