UEI College’s HVAC Training Program will prepare you for the installation, repair, and maintenance of HVAC systems, but practicing smart safety on the job is also important. The field comes with some inherent risks; below are five safety tips that you can incorporate into your work for your protection, particularly when first beginning your career.

HERE ARE 5 IMPORTANT SAFETY TIPS TO CONSIDER FOR HVAC TECHNICIANS

1. THE RIGHT TOOLS FOR THE JOB:

It’s important to ensure that you have the proper tools for any HVAC job before you get started. These include wrenches, wire strippers, an anemometer, clamp meter, and vacuum gauge. It’s also a wise idea to have a leak detector due to the risk of gas and radiation leaks. Because HVAC maintenance often requires working in dark spaces, you will also want to have a flashlight and/or headlamp. And your toolkit isn’t complete without safety equipment like goggles, gloves, earplugs, and work boots.

2. ALWAYS DOUBLE-CHECK YOUR EQUIPMENT:

Having the right tool for the job is a necessity, but it’s not enough. In addition to making sure you have on hand everything you need to complete a job before you get started, just as importantly, double-check your tools to confirm they are in good working order. From wrenches to wire strippers, and everything in between, you will want to ensure that when performing repairs that you are not running the added risk of hurting yourself or slowing down your work. 

3. TAKE THE TIME TO ASSES THE SITUATION:

Before getting started on any new job, it’s a good idea to carefully assess what needs to be done and take the time to avoid any unnecessary safety risks. This is the best time to pause, look around, identify any potential hazards, and take any measures to avoid injury. While efficiency and speed are generally appreciated when completing a job, rushing will do you and your customers no favors.

4. SAFETY FIRST:

Once you assess your environment, you will know what type of protective gear you should be wearing. For instance, 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 hot equipment. If there are contaminants in the area (dust, debris, gas, etc.) you may want to use a respirator to avoid inhaling dangerous elements. Depending on the job site and if there is the risk of falling objects or a slippery surface, hard hats and work boots may also be a required staple. If the area is loud, you will want to consider earplugs.

5. TAKE CAUTION AROUND CHEMICALS:

When working in HVAC it is inevitable that you will be exposed to some harsh and dangerous chemicals like refrigerants, cleaning liquids, and solvents that must be handled, moved, and stored carefully.  Be sure to follow all directions for storage, only work with them in well-ventilated areas, and wear appropriate protective gear when using them.

Being a Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning technician is an in-demand, rewarding, and growing profession. To make sure that your career in the field is safe from needless hazards and safety risks, follow these five tips for ensuring your environment, tools, and yourself are protected.

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