Becoming an HVAC technician is no easy task. It requires specialized training to learn the ins and outs of HVAC installation and repair. Even with extensive training, HVAC technicians might forget or have missed out on some of the key safety procedures for installing or repairing HVAC equipment.
1. Always Wear the Right Safety Gear
Protective gear has a purpose. While this gear isn’t always comfortable, it is essential to the job. This gear helps protect HVAC technicians against contaminants and other common on-the-job hazards.
Protective clothing can protect the hands, skin, and body from burns, chemicals, and other potential hazards. It is important that HVAC technicians protect their bodies from anything that could lead to injuries.
Hard hats are necessary when technicians are working in areas with low lying beams or potential falling objects. Heavy objects falling on the head can cause serious injuries that hard hats can prevent.
Slip-resistant shoes are one of the most important pieces of safety gear for HVAC technicians. When leaks occur, floors can become wet and slippery. Without slip-resistant shoes, technicians might slip and fall, leading to serious injuries. In some cases, work boots might be required to protect the feet from heavy objects falling on top of them. Whatever the situation requires, you should have the proper footwear available for your own safety.
Face shields should be worn any time technicians are working with potentially dangerous chemicals and liquids. Respiration masks should also be used when working with unsafe air contaminants. Earplugs should be used any time that loud equipment is necessary. Safety glasses are another facial safety device that can protect the eyes from flying debris.
2. Double-Check Your Equipment
As you travel from job site to job site, you might lose track of important tools. Before you head out to any job site, make sure that you have the equipment you need, and make sure all of this equipment is in proper working order.
Not having the proper equipment can lead to accidents. While you want to get the job done, don’t use improper equipment to complete the task. The safety of the technician is always the most important aspect of any job.
Malfunctioning equipment is also a leading cause of injuries for HVAC technicians. Before using the equipment, check that any power cords are in good condition. Make sure moving parts are working properly, as well.
3. Know Safety Precautions
Safety precautions might just seem like more things a technician has to take the time to learn about, but they are the most important things to be knowledgeable about. Chemical and electrical safety are crucial aspects of the HVAC technician’s job.
Electrocution risks can be high if HVAC technicians don’t take all of the necessary precautions. It is also important to remember that electric shock risks are high when water leaks occur. Turning off the main circuit breakers before getting started is the best way to avoid an electricity-related injury, as well as preventing damage to equipment.
Chemicals can be incredibly dangerous. Some can explode, and others may cause severe burns. When technicians are handling chemicals, it is important that they understand proper handling recommendations. If a technician is unsure about a particular chemical, they should get advice from an expert. Additionally, safety gear should be worn during the handling of chemicals.
4. Do the Job the Right Way
Shortcuts may seem like a great way to quickly get through a job. However, shortcuts can have disastrous consequences. When working with heavy equipment, tools, chemicals, and electricity, there is no room for shortcuts. Safety should always be the number one priority, and the few seconds you might save are not worth risking your safety.
Additionally, there is usually a procedure that HVAC technicians are supposed to follow. If a technician decides to not follow this procedure, there could be consequences within the employing company—especially if an injury occurs.
5. Evaluate the Job Site
Not all job sites are created equally. For this reason, HVAC technicians should never rush to get started. Instead, technicians need to take a few minutes to evaluate the area to make sure that everything is safe before getting started on the job. A few common things to check for include:
- Slippery surfaces
- Electrical dangers
- Chemical dangers
- Asbestos exposure
- Fall dangers
- Equipment temperatures
At Cates Heating and Cooling, all of our HVAC technicians have been through extensive safety training. This training ensures that all of our technicians are properly handling equipment, chemicals, and tools in the homes of our clients. As a premier HVAC installation and repair service in the Kansas City Metro Area, all of our clients can be sure that our technicians are properly handling their equipment in the safest possible manner.
To set up an appointment with one of our expert technicians, give us a call today at 913-888-4470 (Kansas) or 816-944-1844 (Missouri).
