Technical data

1.9 Material Safety Data
Refrigerant Data:
Safety Data R134a
Toxicity Low.
In contact with skin Liquid splashes or spray may cause freeze burns. Unlikely to be hazardous by skin
absorption. Thaw affected areas with water. Remove contaminated clothing
carefully — may adhere to skin in case of freeze burns. Wash affected areas with
plenty of warm water. If symptoms occur (irritation or blistering) obtain medical
attention.
In contact with eyes Vapour has no effect. Liquid splashes or spray may cause freeze burns.
Immediately irrigate with eyewash solution or clean water for at least 10 minutes.
Obtain immediate medical attention.
Ingested Highly unlikely to occur — but should this occur freeze burn will occur. Do not
induce vomiting. Provided patient is conscious, wash mouth with water and give
about 250 ml (0.5 pint) to drink. Obtain immediate medical attention.
Inhalation High atmospheric concentrations may have an anaesthetic effect, including loss of
consciousness. Very high exposures may cause an abnormal heart rhythm and
prove suddenly fatal.
At higher concentration there is a danger from asphyxiation due to reduced oxygen
content of atmosphere. Remove patient to fresh air, keep warm and at rest.
Administer oxygen if necessary. Apply artificial respiration if breathing has ceased
or shows signs of failing. In event of cardiac arrest apply external cardiac massage.
Obtain immediate medical attention.
Further medical advice Symptomatic and supportive therapy is indicated. Cardiac sensitisation has been
described which may, in the presence of circulating catecholamines such as
adrenalin, give rise to cardiac arrhythmia’s and subsequent arrest following
exposure to high concentrations.
Long term exposure A lifetime inhalation study in rats has shown that exposure to 50,000 ppm resulted
in benign tumours of the testis. This is not considered to be of relevance to humans
exposed to concentrations at or below the occupational exposure limit.
Occupational exposure limits Recommended limit: 1000 ppm v/v - 8 hr TWA.
Stability Not specified.
Conditions to avoid Use in presence of naked flames, red hot surfaces and high moisture levels.
Hazardous reactions
May react violently with sodium, potassium, barium and other alkali and alkaline
earth metals. Incompatible materials: Magnesium and alloys containing more then
2% magnesium.
Hazardous decomposition products
Halogen acids by thermal decomposition and hydrolysis.
General precautions Avoid inhalation of high concentrations of vapours. Atmospheric concentrations
should be minimised and kept as low as reasonably practicable below the
occupational exposure limit. The vapour is heavier than air and collects at low level
and in confined areas. Ventilate by extraction at lowest levels.
Respiratory protection Where doubt exists on atmospheric concentration, approved breathing apparatus
should be worn. This should be self contained or of the long breather type.
Storage Keep containers dry and in a cool place away from fire risk, direct sunlight, and all
sources of heat such as radiators. Keep at temperatures not exceeding 45 °C.
Protective clothing Wear overalls, impervious gloves and goggles/face protection.
1-4 035L02381-GB0