Working as an HVAC technician in the heating, cooling and air field can be a rewarding career choice. However, it's important to recognize potential hazards and to know how to stay safe at work. From electrical hazards and combustible gases to harsh environments, there are significant risks related to working with air conditioning systems. That said, air conditioning, according to the figures, is safer than carpentry, electrical work or roof construction.
As an expert in the field of HVAC safety, I recommend that technicians always carry the appropriate equipment needed to test the charge of cables before interacting with them, and always make sure to wear protective gloves when working with electricity. If necessary, you can also consider cutting off the electricity of the area you are working in before starting service as an extra precautionary measure. It is also important to evaluate each workplace for common safety hazards of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems. You can often correct slippery surfaces, fall hazards, and electrical hazards before starting work. When your air conditioner needs more than regular maintenance, for example, when it doesn't reduce the indoor temperature to a comfortable level, it is best to hire a professional service technician.
Schedule an appointment with a training advisor to learn how you can make online vocational training faster, better and easier. You can safely climb a ladder and follow all the precautionary steps when faced with electrical or chemical hazards. Following these precautionary measures can ensure that technicians, as well as customers, are fully protected and prepared. HVAC technicians sometimes face hazards on the job, but if proper HVAC safety precautions are taken, injuries can easily be prevented. Technicians work with a variety of chemicals that can cause serious burns, such as refrigerants, cleaning fluids, solvents, and gases. Pressurized gas cylinders, usually found in the back of a technician's work truck, can cause a fire or even be explosive when exposed to extreme summer temperatures.
If you don't have access to a bucket truck, here are some air conditioning safety precautions you should follow when working at heights:
- Always use a ladder that is tall enough for the job.
- Securely anchor ladders before climbing.
- Wear non-slip shoes.
- Use a harness or other safety equipment when necessary.
- Never exceed the weight limit of the ladder.