What is the primary risk of working with refrigerants?

The primary risk of working with refrigerants lies in the potential environmental and health hazards if these substances are not handled properly. Refrigerants can include chemicals that are harmful to human health if inhaled or contacted with skin. Some refrigerants are known to cause respiratory issues, skin irritations, or even more severe health conditions upon exposure.

Additionally, many refrigerants, particularly older types, can have significant environmental impacts, such as contributing to ozone depletion or climate change if they leak into the atmosphere. Because of this, safe handling, proper training, and adherence to regulations are critical to mitigate these risks.

While the other options highlight important safety concerns in HVAC work—such as electrical hazards associated with the equipment, fire risks due to flammable refrigerants, and mechanical hazards from moving parts—these do not directly relate to the specific risks associated with refrigerants themselves. The comprehensive training and strict regulations surrounding refrigerant handling emphasize the priority of addressing health and environmental impacts.