What precaution should be taken when handling refrigerants?

When handling refrigerants, using protective equipment and adhering to environmental regulations is essential for several reasons. Refrigerants can be harmful to human health as they may cause skin irritation, respiratory issues, or other health problems upon contact or inhalation. Therefore, appropriate protective gear, such as gloves, goggles, and protective clothing, helps to minimize direct exposure and safeguard the handler’s health.

In addition, refrigerants can have significant environmental impact, particularly if they leak into the atmosphere, as many are potent greenhouse gases. Following environmental regulations ensures that the handling, storage, and disposal of these substances are conducted in a manner that complies with legal standards and safeguards the environment.

The other choices suggest practices that could compromise safety. Wearing casual clothing may not provide sufficient protection against chemical exposure, using open flames poses a fire hazard and is unsafe for detecting leaks, and handling refrigerants without gloves increases the risk of direct skin contact with hazardous materials. Thus, option B encapsulates the correct safety protocols necessary when working with refrigerants.