Keeping yourself safe on the job is a win for everyone: your employer, your customers, your family and of course your own health and well being. Here’s a quick primer with the most essential work safety tips for HVAC technicians.
We recommend posting this list where you can see it often, like in your truck, so you’ll be reminded often to keep these tips top-of-mind. If you have questions about safety protocols, ask your employer for resources to refresh your knowledge.
14 work safety tips to prevent injury on the job
1. Use protective gear correctly and consistently
As an HVAC technician, you’re working around electricity, chemicals, heavy objects, sharp tools, heights, and sometimes construction environments. You need the proper gear to keep you safe. Depending on the conditions, that may include hard hats, face shield or goggles, slip resistant and steel-toed boots, protective gloves, back braces, and respirators. Be sure to wear them when and how they are intended.
Learn more> HVAC & Refrigeration Safety: Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
2. Follow electrical safety protocols
Electricity is one of the biggest dangers you face on the job, so this is one of the most important work safety tips for HVAC technicians. ALWAYS follow lockout/tagout protocols to prevent equipment being turned out while you’re working on it. And be extra cautious around moisture (such as water leaks).
3. Be vigilant about refrigerant safety
Your EPA 608 training taught you how to safely reclaim, store, and transport refrigerants. However, as older refrigerants are phased out and new ones are introduced, there may be changes in protocols and containers. Make sure you stay up to date on how to handle these potentially dangerous chemicals.
4. Practice roof and ladder safety
It’s common for HVAC & Refrigeration equipment to be located on rooftops and other high places. When you need to climb, place ladders on a stable surface, have a spotter available, stay away from roof edges, and consider using a safety harness.
5. Keep your eyes and ears open
Always be on the lookout for potential hazards around you. Being alert can prevent trips-and-falls and help you avoid an accident.
6. Be tidy
Keep your work area neat. Spreading tools around and leaving debris where you or others can trip over it leads to injuries.
7. Follow manufacturer instructions
Before heading out to a job, make sure you have access to manufacturer instructions for the equipment you’ll be working on and review it ahead of time. This practice can save you time as well as prevent accidents. The same goes for reviewing instructions for tool use.
8. Clean and test tools
Tools in poor condition cause accidents. Set a regular time to clean and inspect all your tools, and replace anything that’s no longer safe.
9. Use the right tool for the job
Grabbing whatever is handy can lead to mistakes and injuries. Keep tools properly organized so you can find what you need.
Learn more> Organizing Your Tool Bag (Why and How)
10. Avoid shortcuts
Stick to the protocols you’ve been taught. Taking shortcuts can be dangerous and can also waste time in the long run.
11. Use safe lifting techniques
Lifting the wrong way is a common cause of back injuries. Know your limit, use both hands and a straight back, go slow, and bend your knees instead of your waist.
12. Commit to safe driving practices
It’s easy to forget that driving is often the most dangerous thing we do. Make sure you get to each job safely with cautious driving.
Learn more> Driving in NYC: Safe Driving Practices & Tips
13. Take breaks when needed
Pushing too hard through mental and physical fatigue leads to mistakes that cause injury. Take breaks when needed to recharge your energy, focus, and strength.
14. Know when to ask for help
Always speak up when you’re given a task that you aren’t properly trained or comfortable doing. Asking for help can prevent a deadly outcome.
Chances are you’ve been trained on safety practices and these work safety tips will serve as a helpful reminder. If you do need more detailed information, this article can help:
Refrigeration & HVAC Safety Tips for Technicians
More resources for HVAC technicians
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HVACR Career Connect NY was created to promote the exceptional quality-of-life benefits of a career in HVAC and Refrigeration service, and also to provide a clear path for getting started in the profession. In doing so, we serve as a resource for employers in the New York City metro area to find and hire smart and capable new technicians. We also serve as an educational resource to support business growth and to help service technicians succeed in their chosen profession.
Learn about technical careers in the HVAC & Refrigeration industry, how to get hired and tips to build your career.