On-site safety tips technicians often forget

I can’t stress enough the importance of on-site safety in the HVAC industry. Even for those of you like me who have been in the industry for more than 25 years, we can get so used to our daily routine that safety slips our minds. Before you head out on that next job, brush up on these top five major safety tips that sometimes even experts forget.

1. No matter how uncomfortable they are, safety glasses are a must! Flying debris can cause an eye injury, even with quick reflexes; you won’t be able to react fast enough.
2. Wearing gloves will help prevent lacerations or electrical shock, but what about refrigerant burns? When R22 or R410A is released into the atmosphere, its temperature is around -40°F to - 60°F. A good pair of gloves can prevent a career-ending injury.
3. When using an extension ladder, it must extend outward from the wall at least one foot for every three feet of height. This will prevent you from falling backwards. Be sure the ladder extends at least three feet above the landing surface.
4. A cylinder of R410A inside a van that is 110°F will have a pressure of 366 psig, and a large cylinder may be 1500 square inches. The total pressure inside the cylinder will be 549,000 psig. Be aware that if it falls and is damaged, it will take off like a rocket.
5. Air filters capture things like mold, bacteria, fungus, and pet dander. Think about the last time you changed a filter in an attic. You pulled it out, took a deep breath because it was hot, and sucked that nasty stuff in. This leads to sinus and respiratory infections. Wear gloves and a disposable mask when changing filters. Your health is worth it.

Whether you are a first-year tech or a seasoned professional, safety protocols and safety-related training should always be at the core of your business in the office and on the job. What are your top safety tips? Share them with us on our Facebook.