HVAC technicians must take chemical safety seriously. If not handled properly, they can cause serious injury. Combustible chemicals can lead to an explosion if the right precautions are not taken. That's why it is essential to wear the right protective equipment and practice chemical safety at all times.
To avoid HVAC accidents, always use personal protective equipment (PPE).According to a CDC report, “every year in the U. S., one of the most common causes of death and injury in the workplace is prevented if some additional measures are taken to properly secure the ladder. Make sure the straight extension or ladder extends at least 3 feet above the fulcrum. As part of their job, HVAC technicians touch various surfaces (door handles, thermostats, etc.).Before COVID-19, there were fewer health risks associated with transmission, but the pandemic has reminded us to take extra steps to ensure the health and safety of technicians and customers.
This remains a cause for concern, especially for those who may be classified as vulnerable. Simple security strategies can help mitigate these current risks. In situations where contracting COVID may continue to be a health problem, all transactions that can be made virtually (such as receipts and payments) must be made in advance to limit contact. During the actual visit, all employees must wear a mask that fits them properly. In addition, technicians must carry hand sanitizers and equipment and maintain a distance of 6 feet.
Once the job is finished, all employees should wash their hands or, at least, disinfect them until they have the option to do so. Understandably, any employee who has symptoms or has health problems should not be working. Following these precautionary measures can ensure that technicians, as well as customers, are fully protected and prepared. Once you assess your environment, you'll know what type of PPE you should be wearing. For example, goggles or a face shield will protect your eyes from dangerous chemicals or airborne particles.
Gloves will protect your hands from sharp or rough edges, or from hot equipment. If there are contaminants in the area (dust, debris, gas, etc.), depending on the place of work and if there is a risk of falling objects or the surface becoming slippery, you may also need to wear helmets and work boots. If the area is noisy, you should consider using earplugs. The PPE described above protects the skin, eyes, and respiratory system from exposure to hazardous chemicals. The United States government created the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) in 1970 as a division of the United States Department of Labor. Its mission is to establish and enforce standards for safe and healthy working conditions.
However, some accidents can be more serious than others. The 3-point contact rule is a simple method that can reduce the chances of falling off a ladder. In the United States alone, there are approximately 1,000 deaths a year due to electrical injuries. Every year, about 400 people in the United States suffer serious burns from high-voltage electrical injuries. At least 30,000 people suffer electric shocks every year, and this number is increasing.
Each year, approximately 5% of all admissions to burn units in the United States are due to electrical injuries. Because HVAC technicians' work can be hazardous, these workers must follow OSHA regulations. These regulations include requiring employers to train new employees on how to use HVAC equipment safely. They also require employers to provide respirators to workers who may be exposed to harmful chemicals or dust bags while on the job. Safety is essential for HVAC technicians because it helps protect them from potential harm while on the job. Employers must provide proper training and PPE so that technicians can do their job safely and efficiently without putting themselves at risk of injury or illness.
