If refrigerant has been released what is the first thing you should do?

• A. Shut off the equipment
• B. Locate a self contained breathing apparatus
• C. Call the supervisor
• D. Open doors and windows

Answer: (B)

When a refrigerant has been released, your first concern is protecting yourself from exposure. Refrigerant gases can displace oxygen or irritate the lungs, and entering a contaminated area without protection can lead to serious harm very quickly. A self-contained breathing apparatus provides breathable air independent of the surrounding atmosphere, so you can assess the situation, evacuate if necessary, or shut equipment safely without risking inhalation or oxygen deficiency.

Opening doors and windows might seem helpful, but ventilation alone may not remove the hazard fast enough and could spread the gas to other areas. Shutting off the equipment or calling the supervisor are important steps, but they require you to be protected first; attempting those actions without proper respiratory protection puts you at serious risk.