A large R-22 leak occurs in a basement equipment room. What is the main breathing hazard?
Safety · EPA 608 Core. The correct answer, and the reasoning behind it.
Exposure risks, protective equipment, the 80% cylinder limit and nitrogen for leak testing.
The question
A large R-22 leak occurs in a basement equipment room. What is the main breathing hazard?
- R-22 vapor has a strong odor that causes vomiting
- The vapor is lighter than air and rises to the ceiling
- R-22 vapor is highly flammable
- Vapor displaces oxygen and can cause suffocationCorrect answer
Why “Vapor displaces oxygen and can cause suffocation” is correct
Refrigerant vapors are heavier than air and collect in low, enclosed spaces such as basements and pits, pushing out oxygen. Breathing that air can cause oxygen deprivation and suffocation without warning.
Source: EPA: Test Topics
Why the other answers are wrong
- R-22 vapor has a strong odor that causes vomiting — Most refrigerants have little odor, so there may be no warning at all.
- The vapor is lighter than air and rises to the ceiling — Common refrigerant vapors are heavier than air and settle low.
- R-22 vapor is highly flammable — R-22 is not classed as flammable.
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