BST BS*4434 89 MM LL24bb9 OOb0715 2 mm 7 BS 4434 : 1989 1 {upc 621.565,92.008.008,0022 0014 6204 6148 {© British Standards ination. No part ofthis publication may be photocopied or otherwise reproduced without the prior permission in writing of BST — ems British Standard Specification for Safety aspects in the design, construction and installation of refrigerating appliances and systems Exigences de sécurité de la conception, de la construction et de ‘installation des appareils et systémes de réfrigération — Spécifications Sicherheitstechnische Grundsétze bei der Bemessung, Ausfiihrung und Aufstellung von Kihigerdten und -anlagen British Standards Institution| BS 4434 : 1989 BST BS*4434 69 MM LL24bb9 CObO71b 4 mm Foreword ‘This revision of BS 4434 has been prepared under the direction of the Refrigeration, Heating and Air Conditioning Standards Policy Committoe, It isa thorough review of tho requirements and content in BS 4434 : Part 1 : 1980 and BS 4434 : Part 2 : 1976 that rolate to safety in the design, manufacture and installation of refrigerating systems and appliances, which are both superseded and are withdrawn, Aspects relating to ‘operation and maintenance of commercial and industrial appliances and systems that were dealt with in tho previous editions of Parts 1 and 2 have buon retained as appendix H in this edition for guidance purposes. Particular attention has been given, In the proparation of this revision, to presenting the safety requirements in Iogical sequence from initial selection, through design and construction to installation, testing and documentary roquirements. Attempts have been made to distinguish clearly between those considerations for which verifiable requirements can be specified and those whiich can only be deatt with in terms of general guidance information, ‘much of which is now included in appen« Co.incident with the overall revision of BS 4434, attempts hhave beon made to ensure, through liaisons with other rolevant committees, that the role of BS 4434 in cantrally coordinating the safety requirements for refrigerating appliances, components and systems is properly intograted within the framework of standards concerned. ‘Since commencing this revision, the ‘Montreal Protocol” hhas beon signed and is in the process of ratification. ‘This will have an effect on the availablity and handling of some of the refrigerants montioned in this standard, notably R11, R12, R113, A114, R116 and R13B1. Compliance with this British Standard does not of itself confer immunity from legal obligations.“BSI BS¥4434 84 MM Db24Gb9 OOL0717 b BS 4434: 1980 @ Contents Page Page Foreword Inside front cover Section five. Instruction manual of leaflet Committees responsible Back cover §,1 Provision of instruction manuel or leaflet 20 5.2 Contents of instruction manual or leaflet 20 Specification Section one, General Appendices 1.0 Intraduetion 2A Refrigerants and their physical prope 2 11 Scope 2B Materials 2 412 Definitions 2G Pipo supports and hangers 2 413 Refrigerant groupe 4D Relationship between maximum working 44 Categories of occupancy 5 pressure and other pressuras 23 415 “Types of cooling sytem 8 Minimum design pressures for selected refrigerants 2 Section two, Deslgn and construction F Ventilation ond refrigerant detection in 2.1 Rotrigerant group and cooling system 7, machinery rooms . ro aa Maint ee area JG Guide tothe sclection of electrical apparatus 23 Design and maximum working pressures 9 forhazardous (potentially explosive) areas, 26 Bees 10H Guide to the operation and maintenance of 355 Hest oxchengers JO. __commacil and industrial refrigerating 36 Piping ond fa JO. appliances and systems in relation to safety a 277 protection egal " 2.8 Instrumentation 13 Tables 1 Group claefcation of refrigerants 5 Section thre. Installation 2 Categories of occupancy 5 3.1 General 14.3 Types of cooting system 8 32 Mechinery room 15 4 Selection of refrigerant group and cooling 3.3 Safety provisions for personnel in system in relation to category of occupancy a refrigerated spaces 16 5 Moximum concentration of refrigerant in the 34 Refrigerant detectors 16 event of major release 9 38 Clecuteal Insalltions 16 6 Refrigerant and their physical properties a 2.6 Charging end discharging refrigerant 177 Recommended maximum spacings fr single pipe supports 22 Section four. Testing, inspection, documentation 8 Minimum design pressures 2 and marking f 4.1 Testing 18 touwes 7 Aa haecen {8 1 Schematic diagram ofthe relationship betwaen rs|bccnaaeen 18 the maximum working pressure and other 3 Marking 19. pressures referred to in this standard 23 2 Salaction of electrical apparatus for hazardous (potentially explosive) arose 2BSI BSx4434 89 MM DL24LL9 OOLO718 & mm BS 4434 Specification. Section one Section one. General 1.0 Introduction ‘This standard is intended to minimize possible hazards peculiar to refrigerating appliances, systoms and ancillary equipment; itdoes not constitute a technical design manual. ‘The standard is draw up for the protection of life and limb and the health of the individual and also for the Prevention of damage to property in the sense of premises ‘but not, for example, goods in storag In order to attain these objectives, good design, construc: tion, installation, operation and maintenance are necessary. It is intended that this standard be applied to all kinds of ‘refrigerating systems in which the refrigerant is evaporated {and condensed in a closed circuit, including heat pumps and absorption systems, but excluding systems using ait as the working fluid, Attention is directed to relevant standards, refrigeration safety codes, pressure-vessel and piping codes, electrical ‘codes and statutory regulations for health, safety and fire*. In many countries such documents exist and compliance ‘with their provisions may be mandatory. In the absence of such rules a relevant document should be used that has received national or international recognition and has been. accepted by agreement of all parties properly concerned In each transaction. Attention is also drawn to dangers common to all compres- sion systems such as excessive temperature at discharge, erroneous operation (e.g, discharge valve closed while running) or reduction in mechanical strength caused by corrosion, erosion or vibration. Corrosion should have special consideration as conditions peculiar to refrigerating systems arise due to alternate frosting and defrosting, the covering of apparatus by insulation, and faulty vapour seals, Special consideration should also be given to possible offects of low temperatures such as: (a) brittleness of materials; {b) freezing of ground beneath or adjacent to rofrigorat ing equipment, with consequent danger to buildings; (c} ruptures in associated equipment caused for example by the freezing of products, water or heattransferring liquids and consequent release of rofrigorant to atmos: phere or into other apparatus unsuitable for the pressure * For example: for pressure vases: 8S 5500, 8S 7005, nd the American Sa Section VIII, Rules for construction of pressure vse for piping: BS 2871, ANSI ty of Mechanical Engineer (ASME) Bot fe from BSI Sales De B.31-8 ~ Code for prossure piping — Refi resulting from, or excessive pressures exerted by, substances being processed and/or pumped. In standards for particular classes or types of appliance, certain tests included in this standard may be specified as type tests only. 1.1 Scope ‘This British Standard specifies requirements for the safety aspects in terms of the design, construction, installation and, ingpection of refrigerating appliances, systems and ancillary ‘equipment intended for use or instalation In Institutional, Public assembly, residential, commercial and industrial ‘occupancies. It applies to new refrigerating systems, extensions and moditications of systems and for used systems on being re-installed and operated on another sito. It also applies in the case of the conversion of a system for use with another refrigerant, e.g. R12 to R114 or R717 ‘to R22 {see appendix A), It does not apply to the use of air as a refrigerant, or to liquefied gas storage tanks. Requirements for safety aspects in the design of appliances, systems and ancillary equipment are given in section two. Requirements for safety aspects in the installation and location of appliances, systems and ancillary equipment are given in section three. Requirements for testing, inspection, documentation and marking are given in section four. Requirements for the instruction manval of leaflet are aiven in section five, NOTE. The titles ofthe pubtietions refered to inthis tandard ‘ar listed on the inside bck cover, 12 Definitions For tho purposes of this British Standard the following definitions apply. 1.2.1 absorption refrigeration system (adsor rofrigerating system), A system in which refrigeration is effected by evaporation of a refrigorant, the vapour then and Pressure Vessel Code, rment, Linford Wood, Milton Keynor, MK14 6LE. tion piping: for electrical equipment: 8S 3456 : Part 101 and Part 2 section 102-24 IEE Rlgulations for Electrical Installations; for occupational exposure limits of refrigerants the current eltion of Health and Safety Executve Guidance Note EH 40 "Occupational Exposure Limits’ published annually by HMSO. {or moce detailed considera {or Ammont Carshalton, Surrey, SM 2. ‘For example, chapter 6 of the ‘Guide to Refrigorated Storage’ published by the International Institute of Rai tvalable from BS! Sales Department. n of cartainretigerants reference may also nd ehlorofluoracarbans, Parts and 2, published by the Instituto of Refrigeration, Kelvin House, 76 Mil Li tion (Paris), ant 2BSI BS*4434 89 MM Lb24bb4 being absorbed or adsorbed by an absorbent or adsorbent medium respectively, from which itis subsequently expelled at a higher partial vapour pressure by heating and liquefied by cooling. 1.2.2 brazed joint, A gas-tight joint obtained by the join- ing of motal parts with non-ferrous filler metal alloys that melt at ess than the melting temperatures of the joined parts. The parent metal does not participate by fusion in making the joint. NOTE 1. Non-forrou filler meta slloys used for brazed Joints ‘generally have a melting point higher than 450 *C, NOTE 2. The term brazing includes the process otherwise known ‘as sllver soldering, 1.2.3 bursting dise. A safety device that will rupture at @ predetermined pressure. 1.2.4 changeover device. A valve controlling two protec- tion devicas and so arranged that only one can be made inoperative at any one timo. 1.26 coll, A heat-exchanging battery made of tubing formed into a compact shape by spiral or serpentine configuration. 1.2.6 compressor. A mechanically operated component for compressing a refrigerant vapour, drawing from an evaporating system and discharging to a condensing system, 1.2.7 condenser, A heat exchangor in the form of a vessel of arrangement of tubing in which vapour is liquefied by ‘the removal of heat. 1.28 cooling coll. A heat exchanger of coil form intended ‘0 reduce the temperature of fluid passing in or around or ‘through it. 1.2.9 cooling system. The part of the refrigerating system ‘that includes the evaporator and any secondary system for the purpose of cooling air or other substances. NOTE. For tha purporos of ths standard, cooling systems aro clasttied into wx types or Ilustreted and deseribed In tae 3, 1.2.10 design pressure, The pressure usod in determining ‘tho necessary materials, thickness and construction for components with regard to their ability to contain pressure. 1.2.11 evaporator. A hoat exchanger In which liquid. refrigerant is vaporized by absorbing heat from the sub- stance to be cooled. 1.2.12 exit, An opening in the outer wall, with or without a door or gate, NOTE. Emergoney exits aro required to comply with the Building ogulations. 1.2.13 exit passageway. A passageway immediately in the vicinity of the door through which people leave the building. 1.2.14 fusible plug or fusible component. A safety device having a low temperature melting point element to release pressure at a predetermined temperature. "1 bor= 108 Nim? = 100 KPe. 0060725 7 mm BS 4434 : 1989 Section one 1.2.15 gauge pressure. The difference between the absolute pressure in the system and the atmospheric pressure at the site, NOTE. The etmospharic prssurw Is gonorally assumed to be 1.018 bar* 1.2.16 hallway. A corridor for the passage of people. 1.2.17 header. A pipe or tube component of a refrigerating system to which several pipes or tubes are connected, 4.2.18 hoat pump system. A refrigerating system designed to make use of the heat rejected by the system, e.g. for space heating. 1.2.19 hoat-transferring liquid. Any liquid used for the transmission of heat without any change in its liquid state NOTE. Seo 2.24 for requirements regarding temperature imitations 1.2.20 high pressure side, That portion of a refrigerating system which is subject to the higher or condensing pressure, 1.2.21 humanly occupied space. Space normally frequented ‘oF occupied by people with the exception of machinery rooms (1.2:80) and of refrigerated spaces (1.2.48). 1.2.22 internal gross volume. The volume calculated from the internal dimensions of a pressure vessel, no account boing taken of the volume of any internal parts 1.2.23 Isolating valve, A valve used to shut off flow completely. NOTE, Valves may be arranged to lsolatossctions of systams for ‘the purposes of assembly or maintonance while other sections remain ehorged with otrigorant 1.2.24 leakage test prossure. The prassute that is applied to test a system or any part of it for prossure tightness. 1.2.25 limited charge system. A refrigerating system in Which the internal volume and total rafrigerant charge are such that, with the system idle, the maximum working pressure will not be exceaded if complete evaporation of the refrigerant charge occurs. 1.2.26 liquid receiver. A vessel permanently installed in the high pressure side of a system to provide a reserve of liquid refrigerant. 1.2.27 lobby. An ontranco hall or large hallway serving a awaiting room. 1.2.28 low pressure side. That portion of a refrigerating system which is subject to the lower or evaporating pressure, 1.2.29 machinery. The refrigerating equipment forming 2 part of the refrigerating system. NOTE. This wil Include any or all ofthe following compressor, condanser,gonerator, absorber, (edsorbor), liquid receWver, connecting piping, evaporator, pump, surge drum.BSI BS*Y434 89 MM Lb24b69 OOL0720 & mm BS 4434 : 1989, Section one 1.2.30 machinery room. An enclosure in which equipment such as pumps and compressors are housed. NOTE. Fora refrigerating eystam this doss not includo evaporators located in 8 coldroom, rerigerator box, at cooled space or any ‘other enclosed space 1.231 maximum charge. The maximum allowable mass of the rafrigerant in the rofrigerating eystem, 1.2.32 maximum working pressure. The pressure that is ‘not to be exceeded in any part of the system, irrespective ‘of whether the system is or is not operating, except within the range of any pressure relief davies. It may be differently specified for the high and low pressure sides. 1.2.33 non positive displacement compressor. A compres- sor in which increase in vapour pressure is attained without changing the internal volume of the compression chamber. 1.2.34 ool drain, An arrangement on a reftigerating system, whereby lubricating oil carried from the compressor may bo drained from the system. 1.2.36 piping. The pipes or tubes (including any hose, bellows or flexible pipe) for interconnecting the various parts of a refrigerating system. 1.2.36 positive displacement compressor. A compressor in which inorease in vapour pressure is attained by chang- ing the internal volume of the compression chamber. 1.2.37 pressure limiting dovice, A pressure actuated adjustable or factory pre-set non-adjustable instrument (e.g. high pressure switch) that is designed to stop the operation of the pressure imposing element and may also operate an alarm. 1.2.38 pressure relief device. A valve (1.2.39) or bursting dis (1.2.3) designed to relieve excessive prossure automatically. 1.2.39 pressure relief valve. A pressure actuated valve held shut by a spring or other means and designed to relieve excessive pressure automatically by starting to open at a pressure not exceeding the maximum worki ‘and reclosing, to prevent further flow of fl ‘conditions of service have baon restored, 1.2.40_pressure system. A refrigerating system comprising a pressure vessel or connected group of pressure vessels, any associated piping, and any associated compressor, 1.2441 pressure vessel. A closed vessel containing fluid at a pressure differing from atmospheric prossure. 1.2.42 process valve. A valve used on a regular basis for ‘process operations. 1.2.43 receiver. A vessel that stores refrigerant located in the refrigerating system. nt, A substance used to produce ‘efrigoration by its vaporization. NOTE. A table isting typical refrigerants and ther physical properties is given in append A. 1.2.48 refrigarated space. A refrigerated room used for ‘operational or service purposes (e.g. cold stores, freezing ‘tunnels, low temperature environmental areas). 1.2.46 rofrigerating system. A combination of inter connected refrigerant-containing parts constituting one closed refrigerant circuit in which a refrigerant is circulated for the purposos of extracting heat. 1.2.47 sealed absorption system. A unit system in which all refrigerant-containing parts, except for a fusible ‘component, are made permanently tight against refrigerant loss. 1.2.48 self-contained system, A complete factory-made system in a suitable frame and/or enclosure, that is fabricated and transported in one or more sections and in which no refrigerant containing parts are connected on site other than by companion or block valves. 1.2.49 soldered joint. A gastight joint, obtained by the Joining of metal parts with metallic mixtures or alloys ‘that melt at temperatures in general from 200 °C to. 450 °C. The parent metal does not participate by fusion in making the joint. NOTE. Thie definition do components usod fr el 1.2.50 strength test pressure. The gauge pressure that is applied to test the strength of a refrigerating system or any patt of it, not apply to fusible plugs (7.2.14) oF 1.2.51 surge drum, A vessel containing liquid refrigerant at low pressure and temperature and connected by liquid feed and vapour return pipes to an evaporator. 1.2.62 unit system. A solf contained system that has been assembled and tested prior to its installation and is. installed without connecting any refrigerant containing Parts; a unit system may include factory assembled ‘companion or block valves. 1.2.53 vent. A device permitting fluid flow in order to maintain the balance of pressure between the atmosphere and the system. 1.2.54 vestibule with doors (air lock). An isolating cham- bor provided with separate entrance and exit doors allowing ‘passage from one place to another whilst isolating one from the other, 1.2.85 welded joint. A gastight joint obtained by the join: ing of the metal parts In tha plastic or molten state.BSI BS*4434 89 MM LL24bb9 O0L0721 4 mm Table 1. Group classification of refti Group nt choractorstcs Refrigerants which are non-flammable in vapour form at any concentration in air at ‘atmospheric pressure and 20 °C and are of 4 low order of toxicity. Toxie decomposition products may result from eontact with flames or hot surfaces in the presence of air. Major decomposition products of this group, with the exception of carbon dioxide, are hydrochloric and hydrofiuorie acid. Although toxic, they provide an automatic and definite warning by thelr exceodinaly irritant smell even at low concentrations. Roftigerants which have toxicity as @ dominant characteristic. It is almost impossible to make a functioning refrigerat ing system that would not produce toxic ‘concentrations if the refrigerant escaped Into the spaces concerned. Refrigerants which have flammability or ‘explosion hazards as their dominant characteristics. They are of a low order of toxicity. BS 4434 : 1989 Section one 1.3 Refrigerant groups For the purposes of this standard refrigerants are clasified into three groups as given in table 1. NOTE. A list of typical refrigorants In each group i given in appendix A. 1.4 Categories of occupancy Occupancy is categorized according to table 2. 1.5 Types of cooling system Types of cooling system are designated in table 3 (see overleaf) Table 2. Catagories of occupancy Category onoral characteristics Examples A Where persons are restricted in their Hospitals, court houses, prisons with cells Institutional ‘movernont B Where people may freely assemble Theatres, dance rooms, department stores, Public assembly ppassonger stations, schools, churchas, lecture halls; restaurants. c Where sleeping accommodation is provided | Homes, hotels, residential apartments, clubs, Residential colleges D Where any number of people may be Business or professional offices, small shops and Commerci assombled, some being necessarily restaurants, laboratories, places for general acquainted with the general safety manufacturing and the performance of work, precautions of the establishment markets with unrestricted entry E Where only authorized persons have access | Plants manufacturing chemicals, food, Industrial and where manufacturing, processing or beverages, ice cream and ice, refineries, storage of materials or products takes place cold stores, dairies, abattoirsBSI BS*4434 894 MM 162465 OOb0722 T Am BS 4434 : 1989 Section one Table 3. Types of cooling system* Designation Fotrigoratina source ‘Space whe Notes substence is cooled (0) Direct systom Evaporator | Evaporator in direct ‘communication with substance to be cooled. (0) Indirect open Evaporator cools a hoat system IF transferring liquid which is brought into direct 6 aed communication with substance. (c) indirect vented ‘Simi to (b) but with ‘open system Vent ‘open or vented evaporator tank. | (a) Indirect closed iui y Evaporator cools a heat system ‘quid ena transferring liquid which expansion L 4-4 passes through @ closed ‘Similar to (d) but with ‘open or vented evaporator tank, (e) Indirect vented closed system 4 eircut in direct communication with substanes. = }-Q. Vent ‘A combination of {b) and (e) “itr where cooled heat transfer — S cy heat exchanger. (6) Double indirect system liquid passes through second *By analogy heat pumps are classified in @ similar way,BSI BSx4434 89 MM 1b246b9 0060723 1 a BS 4434 : 1989 Section two Section two. Design and construction 2.1. Refrigerant group and cooling system 2.1.1. The refrigerant group and the type of cooling system (oo 1.6) shall be solectod according to the category of ‘occupancy (see 1.4) as given in table 4. NOTE 1. Table 4 gives erorereferancer to clautes specifying otaled roquiramants forthe refrigerant and the type of cooting §ystem selected In relation to the category of occupancy. NOTE 2. Whon ratigerating systems are to be installed in locations Tn any ofthe eatoporos described Important that due regard should be paid to the adjacent property and its occupants. lection af the refrigerating/eooting syst also depends on detailed considerations in relation to the natuce of the Intonded installation, Thess are dealt with in sootion three. 2.1.2 Whore there is more than one category of occupancy ‘the most stringent requirements shall apply, except that when the occupancies are isolated (e.g, by tightly sealed partitions, floors and celtings) the requirements of the individual occupancies apply. 2.2 Maximum charge of refrigerant 2.2.1 Refrigorants of group 1 2.2.1.1 Direct and indirect open cooling systems. For systems designed to be used in occupancy categories A, B, C and D, the chargo of refrigerant My (in kg) shall not ‘oxcznd the mass given by the following Ma=eV where ¢ is the maximum allowable concentration (in kg/m?) of the refrigerant in the humanly occupied space as given in table 5 Vis either (a) the volume (in m®) of the smallest humanly ‘occupied space into which the whole of the refrigerant charge could leak or, {b) the total volume (in m®) ofall humanly Cccupied spaces cooled by one air circulation system, provided the duct work sorving those spaces cannot bo shut off other than in an emergency. NOTE 1. It isnot necesaey to relate the maximum refrigerant Charge tothe volume of fooms eresed by Bp carried through le, tg sale, on honnals oF ducts vented to atmosphere orto 8 machinery room ‘concorned withthe systam or toa space containing othor parts ‘ofthe system (soe 3.1.8.2). NOTE 2, fa may be less than eV. 22.1.2 Indirect vented open, indirect closed, indirect vanted closed and double indirect refrigerating systems. The maximum charge of refrigerant shall be restrictad in accordance with 2.2.1.1 unless the refrigerating system (other than components outside the building and piping, $00 3.1.3.2) to be installed in a mechinery room, in Which case no restrictions on charge shall apply. 2.2.2 Refrigerants of group 2 2.2.2.1 Direct, indirect open, Indirect vented open and {indirect closed refrigerating systems. The maximum charge of group 2 refrigerants and other restrictions on the use of ‘group 2 refrigerants shall be as follows. (2) Category A occupancies. The mass of refrigerant shall not exceed 2.6 kg and the use of the refrigerant shall be restricted to hermetically sealed absorption systems installed or designed to be used in kitchens, mortuaries and laboratories. (b) Category 8 occupancies. The mass of refrigerant shall not exceed 2.6 kg and the use of the refrigerant shall be restricted to hermetically sealed absorption systems, or solf-contained systems or unit systems installed or designed to be used only in kitchen depart: ‘ments, mortuaries and laboratories. {c} Category C occupancies. The mass of refrigerant shall not excged 2.6 kg and tho use of the refrigerant, shall be restricted to hermetically sealed absorption systems, self-contained systems and unit systems. (4) Catagory D occupancies. The mass of the refrigerant shall not exceed 10 kg and the use of the refrigerant shall be restricted to hermetically sealed absorption systems, self-contained systoms and unit systoms. (e) Category E occupancies. There are no restrictions con the charge. Systems using group 2 refrigerants shal hhave all compressors and high pressure side machinery installed in a machinery room with special requirements (see 3.2.2) or in the open air. 2.2.2.2 Indirect vented closed systems and double indirect refrigerating systems. The maximum charge of group 2 refrigerant shall be as follows: (a) for category A occupancies, 250 kg: {b) for category B occupancies, 500 kg; {c) for category C, D and E occupancies, no restriction ‘on the charge. Machinery shall be installed in a machinery room with special requirements (see 3.2.2) or in the open air as, follows: (1) for category A and B occupancies, all machinery; (2) for category C, D and E occupancies where the refrigerant charge excoeds 600 kg, all compressors and high pressure side ma“ETE os ser) armesedumr 09 01s sow) 40 sa00} ne 104 Ave Jo aumnBedwr On L-Zp'E U! poy ede Sunda RaSOK® UED "YEH © Jo uens aur Ul TuCHeRUODLD ei Sau JpU0® He 40} pasn 94 03 ou wsiehe BuMOOD ou wna op ues 5.9 "wojuio> ueuiny 45 8 ' au 3 o “Burtuen pus Bujpooy Inout qUesesd a1 sawe|y Uado 5} Pasn aq 02 I0U WAEAS BULIOOD, 13 7 2 soaupur aigneg au sete peso paver a | ‘yoeu!pur 1 zize peso eupUL S asn aq 01 20N (oerasrenetl| 2 | | odo paar | fi 20eTz | | | & z re HOMES FHUPLTTS loOreee saeTee lsueneee | Bb |e | £ bez] eee a 2 | aug “4 | g sn uo suonoyns Bu aes 3] al olelv - a 2 a via} a} [s v owen ers “ewan & 7 z t | aro vwmatsBa009 | ‘Aouedna20 jo A1ofs129 0} uonej24 ut wioyshs Buljooe pue dnodB 2ues9B{lj03 40 WONDeIeg “p aIaeL 21989 Section two BS 4434BST BS*4434 84 MM 12469 OOLO72S 5 ‘Table 5. Maximum concentration of refrigerant In the event of major release Refrigerant numb Maximum concentration R kg/m? (20°C) " 0.07 12 0.40 13 0.60 1381 0.60 22 0.17 113 0.085, m4 0.70 115 0.60 500 0.40 502 0.20 503 0.50 [NOTE 1, The maximum chorge of refrigerant and the caleulation of the maximum concantration of rofrigerant {eo 2.2.1 in dracty related to the humanly occupled pace into which It could Teak. NOTE 2. The maximum eoncontration of rfrigrants ‘pply to eccidents and ineldonts producing 8 major ‘olosta of rofrgprant. They do not refer to safe loves for ‘gular day to day axporute for whieh reference should bbe made to tables of ‘Occupational Exposure Limits {Guidance Nota EH 40 from the Health ond Safoty Executive) NOTE 3. The limits on tha safe amount of refrigerant fre tet to avoid narcoss, cardiac sensitization and lack ‘of oxygen. Cardiac sanitization refers tothe ability of {chemical to make the heert sensitive to edronaline. 2.2.3 Refrigerants of group 3 Group 3 refrigerants shall not be used for occupancy categories A, B and'C. ‘The maximum charge of refrigorant and restrictions on the se of group 3 refrigerants shall be as follows: (a) Category D occupancies. The mass of refrigerant shall not exceed 2.6 kg and the use of the refrigerant shall be restricted to unit systems installed or designed to be used in laboratories. (b) Category E occupancies. For installations on floors with more than one person per 10 m?, the mass of refrigerant shall not exceed 2.5 kg and the use of the refrigerant shall be restricted to unit systems, (c) For other category E occupancies. Category 3 rofrigerants may be used, but when the mass of rofrigorant exceeds 2.5 kg the machinery shall be installed in machinery rooms with special requirements {see 3.2.2) o in the open air and all electrical equip- ‘ment shall comply with the requirements for hazardous NOTE. For further guidance, ee appendix G, BS 8345, BS 4683 ‘and BS 8501 BS 4434 : 1989 Section two 2.2.4 Secondary refrigerants (heat-transferring liquids) Secondary refrigerants used in any indirect system in any ‘occupancy shall have either: {a} no flashpoint; oF (b) a flashpoint higher than 65 °C. 2.3 Design and maximum working pressures 2.3.1. Maximum working pressure ‘Tho systam shall be such that the maximum working pressure is not exceeded, with the system either in ‘operation or at rest, except within the operating range of any pressure relief valve (see 2.7.3.1.1). NOTE 1. The overall system may, for operations! reasons, be sub-divided into two oF more parts (eq. low and high pressure Sides) for each of which there might bea different maximum working pressure. “The maximum worklng pressure is docided by the dasigner taking into acount such Factors (a) the ambient temperature; (b) the build-up of non-condensable gases prior to purging: (€) the margins between the (operating) pressure and the switching pressure ofthe pressure limiting device; (4) the setting of any pressure relief device: (6) the method of defrosting; (9 the application (eg. cooling or heat pump applications); (6) solar radiation; {) fouling NOTE 2. The maximum working pressure wil bo higher than the ture at which the stom (or part system) normally operates. [NOTE 8. The interrolationship between maximum working pres- ‘ure and other pressures rforred to in this standard ie shown in ‘sppendix D. 2.3.2 Component design pressure NOTE 1. Notwithstanding any subdivision of the refrigerating svstom into functional parts (29. low and high pressure sds), tho tara will comprise a umber of components (e.. vessels, tereonnecting pipework), Some of the components may bo parataly ordered (perhaps as stock items) from manufacturers! suppliers other than the detgnec/manutacturer of the systam. “The design pressure for each component shall not be less ‘than the grester of either of the following: (a) the maximum working pressure of the system or part system (see 2.3.1); or {b) the pressure corresponding to the appropriate saturation temperature selected from the following: (1) for the high pressure side with air-cooled condensing: at least 50°C; (2) for the high pressure side with water-cooled. condensing: at least 40 °C; (3) for the low pressure side: at least 30°C. NOTE 2, The minimum ssturation temperatures specified in (b) appropriate for temperate zones, ot. the UK. Saturation temperatures above the minimum may need to be used when ‘the refrigerating system sto be installed in countries where high ambient temporotures oe entcipeted. NOTE 3. Examples of minimum design pressures in relation to saturation temperatures ere given In appendix EBSI BS*4434 69 MM Lb24bb9 OOLO72L 7 mm 2.4 Pressure vessels 2.4.1 General Pressure vessels shall comply with either of the following: {2} BS 7008, for serially produced vessels with outside diameters not exceeding 610 mm, or with BS 5500; or (b) a stated written specification having at least equivalent status and safety provisions to the corres ponding standard referred to in (a). NOTE, The ASME Boiler and Praseute Vets Code, Section VII, ules for construction of pressure vesas, or examplo, recog: nized ss being 9 least equivalent to BS 8600 by Independent ingpaction authorities. 2.4.2 Strength ‘The strength of a vessel protected by a fusible plug shall be sufficient to withstand, without rupture, a pressure of at least 2.5 times the refrigerant saturation pressure corresponding to the stamped temperature on the fusible plug, 2.5 Heat exchangers Shell and tube exchangers shall comply with either of the following (a) BS 3274; or {b) a stated written specification having at least equivalent status and safety provisions to the standard referred to in (8). 2.6 Piping and fi 2.6.1. General Refrigerating piping, valves and fittings shall be designed for internal pressures In accordance with 2.3.2. ‘The material, wall thickness, tensile strength, ductility, corrosion resistance, forming and testing methods for piping shall be suitable for the refrigarant used and satisty ‘the pressure, mechanical stress and thermal stress conditions of the application, NOTE, See appendix 8 for goneral considerations of sultablo ‘matarals of contruction. ings 2.6.2 Pipe connections 2.6.2.1 Flanges. Flanges shall be such that the gasket or jointing is retained. NOTE. This dass nat imply the use of tongue and groove flanges asthe only means of retention 10 2.6.2.2 Screwed couplings. The use of screwed fittings shall be restricted as follows: (a) screwed compression fittings 16 mm inside diameter maximum; (0) liquid lines 26 mm inside diameter maximum; (c} vapour lines 40 mm inside diameter maximum. 2.6.2.3 Flared fittings. Flarod fittings shall be restricted ‘0 annealed pipe only and to pipe sizes nat exceeding 22 mm and to locations where the joints remain exposed ‘or visual inspection. NOTE. When flared connactions are use care should be taken fot to under or over flare and not to flars any pipe which hat been work hardened. 2.6.2.4 Welding fittings. Steel butt welding fittings and socket welding fittings shall be of low carbon stee! (i.e. less than 0.26 % carbon) and shall be compatible with the piping material Socket welding fittings shall be restricted to piping of nominal bore 40 mm or smaller. 2.6.2.8 Welded connections. Welded connections shall comply with BS 2633 (Class 1) or BS 2971 (Class 11) according to the design condition. 2.6.2.6 Brazed and soldered connections (soe appendix B) 2.6.2.6.1 Soft solder shall not be used for discharge lines. 2.6.2.6.2 Brazing shall not be used on components containing or carrying ammonia. 2.6.2.6.3 Brazing shall be carried out in accordance with 8S 1723: Part 1 2.6.2.6.4 Filler metals for brazing shall comply with BS 1845, 2.6.3 Valves 2.6.3.1 General 2.6.3.1.1. Hand operated valves required for use during ‘normal operational conditions shall be fitted with a hand ‘wheel or operating handle, 2.6,3,1.2. Unintentional turning out of valve spindles, ‘covers or gland packing from the valve body shall be provented. 2.6.3.1.3 It shall be possible to tighten or change the gland, seal(s) while the valve is exposed to system pressure. 2.6.3.2 Isolating valves 2.6.3.2.1 Isolating valves shall provent flow in either direction when closed.BST BS*4434 69 MM Lb2Hi 2.6:3.2.2 Isolating valves shall be provided on refrigerating systems to minimize dangor and loss of refrigerant particu- larly during repair and/or maintenance. ‘2 hand wheel or operating handle, They may be capped valves (soo 26.83). 2.6.3.3 Capped valves. The design of cappod valves shall be such that any refrigerant pressure which may be present under the cap shall be rapidly vented as soon as removal of the cap is commenced. 2.6.34 Draining of oll. For draining oil from systems containing groups 2 and 3 refrigerants, facilities shall be provided in accordance with either or both of the following: (a) in addition to a shut off valve with a hand wheel, 4 rapid closing valve with spring or weight loading; (b) a catehpot oll collecting system which enablos Isolation from the liquid refrigerant system, safe venting of oll entrained refrigerant and isolation of the refrigerant vapour line before the oil is drained off. NOTE, When dining oll fram compressors by moans ofa drain plug, ii essential to reduce the pressure to atmosphorie before “ttempting to remove the plus. 2.7 Protection against excess pressure 2.7.1 Fire conditions Every refrigerating system shall be so designed that pressure dup to fire conditions will be safely relieved. 2.7.2 Protection devices 2.7.2.1 Pressure relief devices 2.7.2.1.1 Pressure relief valves shall comply with BS 6759 Part 3. 2.7.2.1.2. Bursting discs and bursting dise devices shall comply with BS 2918. 2.7.2.2 Fusible plugs. The melting temperature of the ‘fusible material shall be stamped on the plug. 2.7.2.3 Pressure limiting device. & pressure limiting device having an adjusting means shall have a stop or be sealed to limit adjustment. The set pressure shall be less than the maximum working pressure, (Se0 2.7.3.6.2 and appendix D.) NOTE. This device eannot prove machine lsat a stant. rise In pressure when the 2.7.3 Application of the protection devices 2.7.3.1 Protection of the refrigerating system 2.7.3.1.1 Pressure relief devices shall begin to operate at ' pressure not exceeding the maximum working pressure. bb9 0060727 9 il BS 4434 : 1989 Section two 2.7.3.1.2 If other pressure relief devices discharge into the low pressure side, the low pressure side shall be protected with a pressure relict valve or bursting disc discharging to ‘vent that leads to a safe place. The capacity of the low pressure relief valve shall be sufficient to relieve the whole system. NOTE. The discharge of a ref ceonsidred to vent t0 9 safe place when all reasonably forsaeable ‘dangers eleing from thet dlecherge have been removed. 2.1.3.1.3 Portions of the system capable of being complotoly filled with liquid refrigerant and boing shut off from the rest of the system shall be protected against the dangor of hydrostatic expansion. 2.1.3.2 Protection of machinery components 2.7.3.2.1 Positive displacoment compressors absorbing ‘more than 10 kW prime mover power or having more than ‘85 m? /h of swept volume shall be protected by a pressure relief device on the discharge side. The flow capacity of the device shall be equal to the full compressor capacity at the maximum suction pressure. The discharge from the device shall be either: (a) to atmosphere; or {(b) into the low pressure side of the system. NOTE. In cates where dtcharge shutoff valves are not fitted, 2 high tide pressure rele devi wil suffice prowiding there are fo intermedlata shutoff valves 2.7.3.2.2 Positive displacement pumps in any circult of 2 refrigerating system shall be protected by a pressure reliof davice on the discharge side. 2.7.8.3 Protection of pressure vessols 2.7.3.3.1 Pressure vessels which may contain liquid refrigerant and which may be shut off from other parts of the refrigerating system shall be protected by means of ‘wo prossure roliofvalvos, or two bursting dises, oF ono prescura roliof valve and one bursting dise, controlled by ‘a changeover device. One of the specified relief devices and the changoover device may be omitted for the following: {a) vessels of less than 300 L. internal gross volume: (b) vessels used as evaporators; {c} vessels with the pressure relief valve dischargi into the low pressure side. Both of the specified relief devices may bo omittod for the following: (1) vessols having an internal diameter less than 1152 mm and fitted with a fusible plug (2) vessels having an internal diameter less than 76 mm. 2.7.3.3.2 The refrigerant charge in the system or vessel protected by a fusible plug shall not exceed 80 % of the amount of liquid required to fill the system or vessel at the dansity corresponding to the temperature stamped on the plug "BSI BS*4434 85 MM LL24bb4 OObO728 O mm BS 4434 : 1989 Section two 2.7.3.4 Arrangement of protection devices 2.7.3.4.1 Pressure relief devices shall be mounted on, or in proximity to, a pressure vessel or other parts of the refrigerating system which they protect. They shall be easily accessible and shall be connected above the level of the liquid refrigerant. 2.7,3.4.2 A fusible plug shall be mounted on the pressure vessel or other part which it protects. ‘The fusible plug shall be placed above the liquid refrigerant. level. ‘The fusible plug shall not be insulated. 2.7.3.4.3 There shall be no shut off valve between the apparatus to be protected and the pressure relief device. NOTE. A changaover device may be uted in arder to fecilitate testing and repair. 2.7.3.4.4 Where the pressure relief device discharges the low pressure side of the system the following shall apply. (a) The pressure rolief device shall be a pressure reliet valve and shall be of a type not appreciably affected by back pressure, (b) The low pressure sido of the system shall be equipped with a pressure relief valve or bursting disc (c) The relieving capacity of the pressure relief valve ‘ bursting disc on the low pressure side of the system shall protect all connected vessels, compressors and ‘pumps subjected to excess pressure simultaneously. 2.7.3.4 A bursting dise shal! not be used in series with a relief valve. 2.7.35 Application of pressure limiting devices 2.7.3.6.1. High pressure limiting devices shall be provided ‘on all systems containing more than 10 kg rofrigerant and cn all systems that are so constructed that the pressure imposing element is capable of producing a pressure in ‘excess of the maximum working pressure. Pressure limiting devices may be omitted in the following cases, (a) Systems containing not more than 1.5 kg of group 1 Fefrigerant and sealed absorption systems (see 1.2.47) in which the pressure developed by the prossure impos ing element cannot create a stress exceeding one-fifth of the ultimate strength (rupture pressure) of the system. (b) Systems containing not more than 1.5 kg of group 1 refrigerant in which an overload device will stop the action of the pressure imposing elomant before the prossure developed creates a strass exeaeding one-fifth of the ultimate strongth of the system. {c} Systems containing not more than 1.6 kg of group 1 refrigerant and sealed absorption systems in which part Of the system safely relieves pressure, 2.7.3.6.2 Pressure limiting doviees shall stop the action ‘of the pressure imposing element at the pressures given in ‘the following: (a) for positive displacement compressors, a pressure not exceeding the maximum working pressure of the high side of the system; NOTE. A setting of 80% of any pressure relief davic setting ie ul (b) for non positive displacement compressors, 4 pressure no greater than the pressure relief devica setting, 2.7.3.8.3 Pressure limiting devices shall be connected to ‘the pressure imposing element and there shall be no intervening shut off valve unless either: (a) a second device is fitted and the shut off valve is @ changeover device; or (b) a pressure relief valve or bursting dise is fitted to the compressor relieving from high pressure to low pressure and in accordance with the requirements of 27.3.4, 2.7.3.8.4 Pressure limiting devices shall be so arranged to prevent unauthorized adjustment after setting. 2.7.3.8. Pressure limiting devices may be wired directly {nto the control circuit of the compressor motor or may be connected through a computer. Failure of electrical power to the pressure limiting device or to the computor shall stop the compressor. Where the signal from the pressure limiting device to the computer is analogue, ‘the computer shall stop the compressor If the signal reaches either end of its possible range. 274 tharge from pressure raliof dovicos 2.7.4.1 Discharge capacity of pressure reliet valves. ‘The discharge capacity of prossure relief valves shall be determined in accordance with BS 6759 : Part 3, 2.7.4.2 Discharge capacity of bursting discs and fusible plugs. The discharge capacity shall be determined in accordance with E.3 of BS 2916 : 1984, 2.7.4.3 Discharge piping from pressure relief devices. ‘The dischargo piping shall be in accordance with D.3 of BS 6759 : Part 3: 1984, 2.7.8.4 Safety. Discharge from pressure relief devices shall take placa in such a way that persons are not endangered by the escaping refrigerant. NOTE. tt may be ditfused to air or discharged Into an absorbing Hig 2.7.5 Precautions against environmental effects ‘Adverse environmental effects, e.9. the danger of water collecting and freezing in rolif discharge pipes or the accumulation of dirt or debris, shall be considerad, 122.8 Instrumentation NOTE, For lighting arcangements 00 3.1.6. 2.8.1. Arrangement of pressure gauges NOTE. The term gouge includes Instruments utilizing elthe oF digital deploys. 2.8.1.1 When the refrigerant charge mass of the system ‘exceeds 3 kg the system shall be equipped with suction and discharge pressure gauge connections. ‘Systems using refrigerants of group 1 with a charge mass of refrigerant in the system exceeding 60 kg, systems using refrigerants of group 2 with a charge mass of refrigerant in the system exceeding 25 kg and systems using refrigerants of group 3, shat! be equipped with suction and discharge pressure gauge 2.8.1.2 Pressure vessels requiring retesting (see 4.1.3) shall be provided with a pressure gauge connection separate and independent from the test pressure connection. 13 BSI BS*4434 89 MM LL24Gb9 O0b0729 2 mm BS 4434 : 1989 Section two 2.8.1.3 Stoam heating jackets of pressure vessels shall be equipped with a pressure gauge and any fittings necessary ‘to prevent the pressure of steam in the jacket exceeding the safe working pressure, e.g. pressure reducing valve, pressu rolief valve. NOTE. Certain steam heating jckets may be considered to be steam Feesivor, In whieh caso tho statutory provisions of Section 35 of the Factories Act 1981 will ply. 2.8.1.4 Any part of a system which will be cleaned or dofrosted in the warm or hot state and will be under manual control shall be equipped with a pressure gauge Unless already covered by 2.8.1.1 to 2.8.1.3. 282 Liquid level indicators Top and bottom connections of bolted flat glass or reflex. lass indicators shall have automatic shut-off devices. Glass tube type indicators shall not be used. NOTE. When seleting liquid lve Indicator It should be ‘sccortained that they moot the requirements of 4.1.1 and 41.2,BSI BSx4H34 85 BS 4434 : 1989 Section three Section three. Installation 3.1 General 3.1.1 Pedestrian thoroughfares 3.1.1.1. Refrigerating systems shall not be installed on public stairways or stairway landings or in public entrances and exits. 3.1.1.2 Refrigerating systoms shall not obstruct the free movement of persons in hallways and lobbies. 3.1.1.3. Refrigerating systems installed in public hallways Cr lobbies shall have fire resistant (see BS 476 : Part 8) enclosures or surrounds vented to open ait and in occu: pancies A, B, C and D shall be restricted to unit systems Using a refrigerant of group 1 and containing not more ‘than the quantity of refrigerant specified in 2.2.1.1 except that in occupancies C and D unit systems of the hermetic: ally sealed absorption type containing not more than 1.3kg of a refrigerant of group 2 may be used. 3.1.2 Protection of fans and other moving machinery Fans and all moving machinery shall be guarded in accord: ance with BS 5304, NOTE. Reference shouldbe made elso to Health and Safety Regulations 3.1.3 Location of refrigerant piping 3.1.3.1 General 3.1.3.1.1 Refrigerant piping shall be supported (see appondix C). 3.1.3.1.2 Free passage shall not be obstructed by refrigerant piping 3.1.3.1.3 The pipe route shall be chosen to avoid potential rubbing of the pipe against any obstruction or other pipes. 3.1.3.1.4 The clearance around the piping shall be sufficient to allow routine maintenance of components, checking pipe joints and repairing leaks. 3 3.1.3.1.6 Long runs of piping shall have provision for expansion and contraction. 3.1.3.1.7 Where applicable, piping shall be protected. against impact by vehicles and fork lift trucks. 3. 3.1.3.2.1 Piping containing group 1 refrigerants in public, hallways, lobbies or stairways shall be guarded against impact damage, particularly if loss than 2 m above the floor. 55 Refrigerant piping shall not enter lift wells. 2 Piping in hallways, lobbies, rooms and stairways 3.1.3.2.2 For group 1 refrigerants in occupancies of categories A, B and C, piping crossing rooms not served by the system or served by the system indirectly shall be mM 2624669 0060730 9 mm laid in fire resistant ducts (see BS 476 : Part 8) vented to atmosphere or to a space where parts of the refrigerating system are located, if the refrigerant chargo is greater than ‘that required by 2.2.1.1. 3.1.3.2.3 Piping containing group 2 refrigerant shall not be placed in public hallways, lobbies or stairways or be laid in rooms of occupancy category A, B or C. 3.1.32.4 For group 2 refrigerants in occupancies of category D, piping crossing rooms not containing other refrigerating machinery shall be carried through rigid, tightly sealed continuous fire resistant channels or ducts, vented to atmosphere or to the machinery room. 3.1.3.2.8 For group 3 refrigerants piping shall be restricted to the rooms containing the other refrigerating machinery concerned. 3.1.3.2.6 Where refrigerant piping passes through channols or duets there shall be no other piping or electric wiring unless protection is provided to prevent damage due to interaction between the sorvices, e.g. due to fire, electric arcing or corrosion. 3.1.3.8 Fire precautions 3.1.3.3.1 Piping passing through fire resisting walls and 195 shall be so sealed as not to allow spreading of fire ‘to neighbouring rooms. Pipe ducts and shafts shall be shut off from other rooms in such a way as to resist the spread of fire. 3.1.3.3.2 Ducts containing piping for flammable or toxic rofrigerants shall be vented to atmosphere. 3.1.4 Machinery and equipment in the open air In addition to the requirements of 3.1.1 to 3.1.3, the following shall apply. (a) Machinery and equipment installed in outdoor areas shall be spocifically designed for that purpose (see BS 4999 : Part 20), (b) In the case of installations on the roof, care shall be taken that in the event of a leak, liquid refrigerant cannot enter the building. 3.1.5 Water lines ‘Water lines shall not connect directly to a supply, a drain ‘or a sewer if there is any possibility of contamination or ‘danger to persons, 3.1.6 Li Where refrigerating systems and ancillary equipment are equipped with the measuring and indicating instruments necessary for service and operation, illumination of gauges and instruments shall be provided by general room lighting ‘and/or local lighting as appropriate, 14BST BS*4434 89 MM Lb246b9 00b0731 0 mm 3.2 Machinery rooms NOTE. Machinery rooms sorve for accommodating refrigerating ‘machinery but need not sorve exclusively for this machinery. IIs however recommended thet boilers and othor opan flame devices shouldbe exclude. Where air comarestore of internal combustion engines are secom- ‘modated in e room used for refigereting machinery, the air intakes, should be outside the room and positioned so that they eannat lok up aceldantal leakage of refrigerant. 3.2.1 General 3.2.1.1 A machinery room shall be so di all parts are easily accessible with adequate space for proper service, maintenance, and operation 3.2.1.2 There shall be cloar headroom (floor to underside of equipment) of not less than 2 m below equipment situated over gangways. 8.2.1.8 Refrigerating machinery rooms shall have well- fitting doors opening outwards, solf-closing if they open Into other parts of the building, and adequate in number to ensure freedom for persons to escape in an emergency. ‘There shall be no openings that permit passago of escaping refrigerant to other parts of the building. NOTE, Reforence should be mada to local builsng ogulatons. 3.2.1.4 Machinery rooms shall be vented to the outer air by means of natural ventilation (windows and door ‘openings) or by mechanical ventilation in accordance with 3.2.1.5 to 3.2.1.8 (soe appendix F). Natural ventila- tion systems shall have pormanent, purpose made door ‘and wali openings positioned to promote a good ventilation flow taking account of the density of the vapour, and placed clear of obstructions. 3.2.1.8 Machinery rooms without natural ventilation or in basements or sub-basements shall be ventilated to the outside by mechanical ventilation suitable for the safety, health and comfort of persons concerned and for emergency purposes in the event of a major leak. NOTE. To obtain @ reduced ale flow under non-emergency conditions, multi-speed fans may be use. 38,2.1.6 Mechanical ventilation shall be provided in machinery rooms housing systems with group 2 or group 3 refrigorants. .7 Mechanical ventilation shall be by power driven let to fans or exhaust ducts shall be suitably guarded and be located near to the refrigerating ‘machinery and equipment. The discharge of air shall be to ‘the outside of the building in such a manner as not to cause inconvenience or danger. Openings for fresh air shall be positioned to avoid short circuiting, NOTE. Ducts may bo required to accomplish this. 3.2.1.9 Machinery supports shall be designed to allow for ‘the load and vibration characteristics of the supported machinery. Foundations, or supports over 150 mm high, shall be of non combustible mate BS 4434 : 1989 Section three %2.2 Machinery rooms with special requirements Where a machinary room with spacial requirements is specified by the designer, the machinery room shall comply. with 3.2.1 and the following. NOTE. For group 2 and group 3 refrigerant systems some explosion if should be provided where ressonably practical if it fs posible, {or the concentration to reach the lower explosive limit, (2} Communication with adjacent rooms, permanently or for general use, shall only be by means of ing, self-closing doors of not less than 1h fire-resistive construction in accordance with BS 476 Part 8. (b) Rooms adjacent to machinery rooms to which ‘access might be needed during an emergency in the machinery room shall be provided with a separate means of access from a safe area in addition to access from the machinery room. {c) Walls, floors and cellings shall be tightly soaled. {@) All piping and ducting through walls, ceilings and floors shall be tightly sealed to the walls, ceilings or floors through which they pass. (6) Exterior openings shall not be under emergency exits and staircases. (f) At least one emergency exit shall be provided which ‘opons directly to the outer air or through a vestibule type exit equipped with a self-closing tight-fitting door. (g) A remote switch for isolating al electrical equipment not protected for use in flammable atmospheres and for stopping machinery shall be provided outside and near the machinery room door. {h) Independent mechanical ventilation equipment shal be installed with independent emergency control located ‘outside and near the machinery room door. (i) There shall be no flame producing equipment permanently installed and operated in the room. 3.2.3 Protection against explosion Machinery rooms for systems using group 2 and group 3 refrigerants shall be designed to prevent the ignition of an explosive refrigerant/air mixture. NOTE. Guldane on the slection of electrical apparatus is given In appendix G. 3.2.4 Flammable refrigerants 3.2.4.1 For refrigerants of group 2 and group 3 the restrictions on use given in 2.2.2 and 2.2.3 shall apply. 3.2.4.2 In machinery rooms where fan motors and other electrical equipment are likely to operate in flammable concentrations of gas they shall comply with the require ments for hazardous (potentially explosive) areas. NOTE. For further guidance, soe appendix G, BS 645, BS 4083 and 85 5501 The construction and materials of the fans shall not be conducive to fire or sparking. 3.2.4.3 In the special case of ammonia, if suitable refrigerant detectors are installed in accordance with 3.4, specially protected electrical equipment shall not ba roquired. 15BSI BS*4434 89 MM LE24669 OOLO732 2 mM BS 4434 : 1989 Section three 333 Safety provisions for personnel in refrigerated spaces Cold rooms shall incorporate the following safety provi sions for personnel (a) access doors that can be opened both from the inside and outside; NOTE. Emergency doors may be eapable of being opened from the inside only. (b) in the case of electrically or pneumatically operated doors, a means for opening the door manually; (c) an alarm light with a fixed or flashing signal or an ‘alarm buzzer or bell, operated from within, near the door and visible or audible outside the refrigerated space; operation to be by illuminated buttons or chains situated near the door; () indopondent electric light inside every room which cannot be switched off from outside the room, and with an indicator lamp outside the room; (e} one or more of the following: (1) an axe inside each room near the door; (2) a telephone in every room; (3) unlocked insulated safety exit door(s) which can only be opened from the inside (4) a panel removable from the door or adjacent wall from the inside of the room making an opening large enough for a person to pass through easily; (f) independant lighting indicating the ways towards the emergency exit or alarm button, 34 Refrigerant detectors NOTE. Rotrigorant dotsetors are intended to give prompt werning af arise In concentration of refrigerant vapour inthe air surround: Ing te eystam. Refrigerant detectors may be ud to trigger ‘omergeney ventilation rns andor 3.4.1. Humanly occupied spaces 3.4.1.1. Thore is no requirement for refrigerant detectors to be fitted in humanly occupied spaces but in cases where they are specifically requested, they shall be arranged to activate an alarm (see F.2 for guidlines), NOTE. Occupied spaces. In some industrial envionments stat requied to work near evaporators through which rlativaly facge {quantities of refrigerants are ereulatd. In the event ofa hlo- carbon ratrigerant lk from the evaporator a high evel of teoncentration could build up in the working eres without being ‘notice. Its repommended that undee these circumstances one of more gat Setoctor alarm systoms should be installed In the working ora to sve warning of the presence of refrigerant bofore a dangerout oacontration it rosehod, 3.4.1.2 The alarm shall be audible and visible both from inside and outside the humanly occupied space," 3.4.2 Machinery rooms 3.4.2.1 Refrigerant vapour detectors shall be provided In ‘machinery rooms to activate an alarm and to automatically switch on the ventilation fans, as follows: {1 group 1 refrigerants: If the concentration of refrigerant exceeds the occupational exposure limits (see HSE Guidance Note EH 40 ‘Occupational Exposure Limits‘); (b) group 2 refrigerants: if the concentration of refrigerant exceeds 1 5 (V/V); (c) group 3 refrigerants: if the concentration of refrigerant exceeds 30 % of the lower explosive limit. NOTE. Lowor concentrations are preferred to allow for more ‘response time but this is dependant on the avalable instrumentation Jn unmanned machinery rooms for groups 2 refrigerants, the detector(s) shall also isolate all electrical circuits, other than emergency lighting and ventilation, by circuit breakers located in a safe place. 3.4.2.2 The refrigerant concentration in each machinery oom shall be monitored at one or more points within ‘the room and detectors shall be appropriately positioned ‘to give warning of any leakage before a dangerous vapour accumulation can occur. (See appendix F for guidelines.) 3.4.2.3 The refrigerant detector when sensing a refrigorant concentration exceeding its pre-set limit shall in addition to its other functions initiate an alarm in the machinery room and also elsewhere so that emergency action may be initiated, 3.5 Electrical installations 3.6.1. Goneral ‘The design, construction, installation, testing and use of electrical equipment shall be in accordance with IEE Regulations for Electrical Installations and with BS 3456 2s applicable. 3.5.2 Electrical supplies 3.5.2.1 Main power supply. The electrical powor supply to refrigerating systems shall be arranged so that it can be switched off independently of the electricity supply to other equipment in general and, in particular, to any lighting system and mechanical ventilation unit. It shall be capable of being switched off independently from @ safe place not likely to bo affected by escaping refrigerant. 3.5.2.2 Mechanical ventilation. Fans for the ventilation of spaces containing refrigerating machinery shall be so arrangod that they ean be controlled by switching arrange: ments both inside and immediately outside the space and, if not at ground level, by a further switch at ground level. 3.5.2.3 Lighting. Petmarient lighting appliances shall be provided in spaces containing refrigerating machinery to provide illumination for safe operation. ‘An emergency lighting system shall be provided, to allow ‘operation of controls and evacuation of personnel, when normal lighting fails. 16"BST BS*4434 89 MM Lb24bb9 0060733 4 mm 3.6.2.4 Alarm system. Any refrigerant leak alarm system (see 3.4.2) shall incorporate an independent power supply, eg. battery. 3.5.3 Condensation Where moisture from condensation may contact an enclosure containing electrical equipment, the enclosure shall conform to at least IP 4 of BS 4999 : Part 20: 1972. 3.6 Charging and discharging refrigerant 3.6.1 Charging WARNING. Extreme care should be taken not to fill the refrigerating system beyond the quantities specified and marked or with refrigerant(s) other than those identified in the marking. 3.6.1.1 Refrigerant shall be charged into the low pressure side of the system. Service containers shall be disconnected 2s soon as charging is completed. NOTE. Any point on the downstream side of the main liqud ine shut off valva is considored to be part ofthe low prossure side ‘hon the sol shut off valve i In the closed position BS 4434 : 1989 Section three 3.6.1.2 Service containers shall not be heated beyond the reference temperatures given in BS 5356. NOTE, Only containers that are undamaged and ere within the ‘date oftheir periodic examinetion and tet should be used, 3.6.1.3 Where practicable, charging points for refrigerants in groups 2 and 3 shal be in the fresh air. Where this is not practicable, they shall not be sited near exit passageways. 3.6.2 Discharging In casos whore a system may be inadvertently overcharged and itis necessary to transfer some of the charge into service containers, the container(s) shall be carefully and continuously weighed during the transfer and the permis sible charge of refrigerant in the container at a reference temperature of 45 °C shall be observed. NOTE 1. See OS 5255, rs are marked witha tare weight and an ht of refrigerant that can safely be contained, ‘but some old containers do not give a cloar indication. If there Is any doubs, the weight of refrigerant which can be contained should be chackes. 17BSI BS*4434 89 MM Vb2469 OOGO734 & BS 4434 : 1989 Section four Section four. Testing, 4.1 Testing 4.1.1 Strength pressure testing NOTE. Tho relationship between the maximum working pressure and other pressures i shown In appendix D. 4.1.1.1. All system components shall be subjected to 2 pressure test for strength, followed by a leak test, either individually or in groups according to location in the system. NOTE. This may be eerried out by the manufacturer or on ste Permanent deformation shall not result from these tests, ‘except that where deformation by pressure is necessary to ‘the manufacture of the component it shall be deemed adequate if the components are designed to withstand a pressure not less than three times the design pressure with- out rupture. ‘The means to build up pressure for tost purposes shall have a pressure limiting relief device, reducing valve with geuge, ‘oF other device for preventing any pressure being imposed ‘over that prescribed. 4.1.1.2 The strength pressure test for components shall be carried out at the following prossures: {a) for castings, at least 1.5 times the component design pressure (so0 2.3.2). {b) for rolled or drawn components, at last 1.3 times the component design pressure (seo 2.3.2). NOTE. Prssure gauges and control dovieos which may go out of tallbreton at 1.3 thmas maximum working pressure should bo ‘tthe maximum working presure by the manufactures. 4.1.1.3 The strength pressure test shal be carried out as a hydrostatic pressure test by means of water or some ‘other liquid except where a component cannot be prossuro tasted with liquid for practical or technical reasons, in which case it shall bo tested by moans of a suitable gas, e.g. air, nitrogen (oxygen free) or other inert gas (soe 4.1.1.6). NOTE. Oii/aie mixtures ao extremoly dangorous and should be avoided by appropriate choice of procedure 4.1.1.4 Before systems are put into service they shall be subjected to a pressure tast for mechanical strength (4.1.1.8) followed by a prassure test for leaks (4.1.2). NOTE. Compressors, condensers, evaporators, prosure vessels, safety devien, control mechanisms and compioteeystome that have ben strength tested previously need not be subjected to a furth strangth test 4.1.1.5 The system strength test shall be carried out at a prossure of not lass than 1.3 times the maximum working pressure but the test pressure shall not exceed the strength pressure test carried out on components at the ‘manufacturers. If the testis carried out pneumatically a suitable inert gas shall be used (e.g. nitrogen, oxygen free). Oxygen, any combustible gas or any combustible mixture of gases shall not be used as a test medium. Carbon dioxide or any ‘avaiable trom Hor Majesty’ Stationery Office, 18 inspection, documentation and marking hhalocarbon refrigorant shall not be used as a test medium in ammonia systems. Ammonia shall not be used as a test ‘medium in halocarbon systems. Mixtures of R22 or R502 with air shall not be used. NOTE 1. This may require the testing ofthe low-pressure ‘the system separately from the high-pressure side NOTE 2. High pressure mixtures of sir and R22 hove been Found tobe combustible, of 4.1.1.6 Precautions shall be taken to prevent danger to people and to minimize risk to property. NOTE. In particular, the dongors associated with pneumatic testing ‘and the consoquoncts of failure of any part of the vessel under tst {due tothe stored eneray in & compressed gas should be recogntzed “The evacuation ofall personnel from the area of ris, the provision ‘of remote monltaring af pressure, the provision of exploslon-aroot pits, blast walls or enclosures, ot, are necessary cons In certain cases, the provision of extra support to enab testing to be carried out may be a practical alternative to enclosures. {Attention is dravn tothe Health and Safety Executive Guidance Nate GS 4* Safety In pressure testing’, which gives guidance an the precautions tobe taken inthe eas of pneumatic testing 4.1.2 Leak prossure testing ‘A leakage test shall ba carriod out with a sultable inert 185, (2g, nitrogen, oxygen-free) or a mixture of inert gases at the following test pressures: {a} for components bafore delivery to site, not less than the design pressure; (b) for systems other than those covered by (c), not less than 1.0 times and not more than 1.1 times the maximum working pressure; (6) for systoms assembled and installed on site and group 1 refrigerants and with pipelines not excseding 16 mm outside diameter, the refrigerant intended for operation may be used at a pressure not lower than that corresponding to 20 °C. 4.1.3 Repeat pressure tests Ropeat strength testing in accordanco with 4.1.1 and leak ‘esting in accordance with 4.1.2 shall be carried out following work likely to affect strength or whon a change use subjects the vessels to higher stress. 42 Inspection 4.2.1 Welded joints 4.2.1.1 Welding of steel piping for class | duties shall be inspected in accordance with BS 2633. 4.2.1.2 Welding of steel piping for class II duties shall be Inspected in accordance with BS 2971. 4.2.2 Brazed joints Brazed joints shall be inspected in accordance with BS 1723 : Part 1BST BS*4434 85 MM b24bb9 O 4.3 Documentation 4.3.1 Material test cortficates Material test cortificatas shall be provided as required by the purchaser or inspection authority. 4.3.2 Strength test and repeat test certificates (see 4.1.1 and 4.1.3) Any necessary strength test certificates and any necossary copies shall be prepared on behalf of and signed by the person(s) witnessing and responsible for the test NOTE. For equipment in series production this certification may ‘ake tho form of tho inspection clearance mark, stamp or docket ognized Inspection authority, oF the menufacture's name his data plate preferably showing the test pressure 44 Marking 4.4.1 Marking of refrigerating systems installed on site Refrigerating systems installed on site shall be provided with a clearly visible plato giving at least the following information: (a) the installer’s name and address; (b) the year of installation; (c) the refrigerant number, or whore a mixture is employed, the individual numbers and parentage ‘whore not already defined; (4) the system maximum working pressure(s). 4.8.2 Marking of compressors, unit systems and liquid refrigerant pumps Each unit system, each compressor (or where the compres- sor forms part of a condensing unit, each unit) end each uid refrigerant pump shall be provided with a perma- nently connected plate giving at least the following information: {a} the manufacturer's name or the name of the responsible vendor; (b) the model or type reference; (c) the serial number (can be omitted for units in series production); 19 Ob0735 6 BS 4434 : 1989 Section four (4) for unit systems only, the it is designed; {) for unit systems only, the mass of refrigerant, or of each refrigerant in a mixture, for normal operation; frigerant{s) for which (€) the test pressure and the maximum working pressure {may be omitted for household type hermetically soalad refrigerating systems); in the case of compressors, the pressures for high and low sides should be stated; (g) the maximum speed in revolutions per minute (for ‘open type compressors and liquid refrigerant pumps only). 44.3 Marking of pipes Pipes shall be marked, preferably accor code, them. NOTE. See, for exsmple, BS 1710 and BS 6378 : to a suitable -g. colour, to indicate the substance flowing through ct 4.4.4 Marking of pressure vessels Prossure vessels whose maximum working pressure excseds 0.5 bar gauge and in which the product of the internal gross volume of the vessel in litres and the maximum working pressure in bar gauge exceeds 200, shall be provided with an identification plato bearing at least the following data: (a) the manufacturer's or supplier's name; (b) the serial number; (c) the year of manufacture; (4) the design pressure or maximum working pressure; (6) the internal gross volume; (f) the refrigerant (if known); (g) the strength test pressure and date of test; {h) the minimum permissible temperature, for vessels intended to operate below 0 °C. ‘The identification plate shall be permanently connected with the vessel. If the plato is not readily visible @ second plate, marked with the word ‘duplicate’ shall be fixed in ‘the most convenient adjacent position, 4.8.5 Marking of other parts Main shut-off valves and controls for services (gas, air, water, electricity), remote control devices and pressure limiting devices shall be clearly marked.BSI BS*4434 84 BS 4434 : 1989 Section five M@ 1624665 O0b073b T mm Section five. Instruction manual or leaflet e 5.1 Provision of instruction manual or leaflet ‘The contractor or the manufacturer shall provide at least ‘one copy of a leaflet or instruction manual containing at least the information given in 6.2. NOTE. If tho purchaser wishes to have more then one copy of the Instructlon manual, thie should be agreed with the menufecturer oF supplier a the time of anqulry end order. 5.2 Contents of instruction manual or leafiet ‘The instruction manual or loaflet shall contain at least the following information: (a) the name, address and telephone number of the manufacturer or supplier; (b) an address and telephone number for customer service, if different from those given in (a); (c) full instructions for the operation, maintenance and servicing of the system and its components, including the following as appropriste: (1) a description of the system and its components, its functioning and its purpose, including a rofrigerant and an electrical circuit diagram (2) normal starting and stopping the system; (3) stopping the system in an emergency; (4) causes of possible faults and appropriate methods of repair; (6) proposals for planned maintenance; (6) reference to the requirements of 3.6 regarding charging with the refrigorant; (7) warning against charging with the wrong refrigerant; (@) precautions rolating tothe storage of suppl mentary refrigerant in a machinery room (see appendix Hl; (0) a warning that substitution of another rofrigorant should not be made without the approval of @ competent perso (10) precautions to be taken to prevent the freezing of water in condensers, coolers, ete., in low ambient ‘temperatures or by normal reduction in the system pressure/temperature; (11) the functions, routine testing and maintenance of all safety and alarm devices (e.g. emergency ting, detectors and emergency ventilation) that are parts of the appliance, system or installation supplied; (12) procedures to be followed in the event of ‘emergencies and/or injuries to parsons, e.g. first aid; (13) details of any necessary protective equipment, stressing the importance of its routine maintenance and replenishment to ensure its readiness for immediate and effective use. 20g g 8 £ ‘ojos pr u Sue pee acne abn a ‘pn 9c gE BL UNO OK UN 3 38 Bat OOL = WIN OL =289 Le =8 ae vil ee ar | om 16 ar | cu ong a< Ove “et sev gos s6 eeot- v9ez euaiAy3 se} #8 cor | oe cee. co | cen sof ost sx | ese ees) fo | een se | te aur | Se #96 ger | Seat sso.g su | oe sis | oer ree se | ace eons e et a 089 oe wzet cee | coor euowury z ' - - ~ ren ee (ron eee at wee co | sue | cose seronere sos - - : : #410% 5 co | sor | ave oe = & a aH 5 - - -l + - 5 | ve ce | ecco | coe | (HH gy -| ze coe | wee | svat =| Ge se | wer | goa z =| ve ‘ie | ore vest | 2 =| co sor | ose | 00 | z =| see & | oss | can % | =| see sis | sree | shot cera a 7 cw sec~ 9'89 wort aueypawouonyipas =| ee see | “so | res sunuoronyon F ' 2. | ve 2. | prone = S a enone rasiot z Snead aod |e tact | sunmce | we] smasc, | segona x Zagapewacg | “Teoma surat | “Sanoa |S | sen | eid | rues emg | weisny | doin & au ‘sorpiodoud jeorshyd aroun pue ueLeBUjeH “9 O1geL ‘i 8 2 on ep A Hove uP RRR HE ORLY seniedoid jeorsAyd 4rolp pue sweseBuyoy “y xipueddy saoipueddy e ® e@ e 21BSI BS*4434 89 MM Ub24b69 OOb0738 3 mm BS 4434 : 1989 Appendices B and C Appendix B. Materials B.1 General ‘The compatibility of all materials with the refrigerant should be thoroughly established by investigation. Some non-ferrous metals are liable to react with refrigerants, in particular magnesium and zinc and some aluminium alloys. General guidelines are given in B.2 to B.B. B.2 Ferrous metals B,2.1 Cast iron and malleable iron may be used for machines and fittings of the refrigerant circuit as well as for heat transferring liquid circuits, but should not be used with calcium chloride brine ifthe circuit includes copper. B.2.2 Carbon and low alloy steel may be used for all parts carrying refrigerant and also for heat transfarring liquid circuits. In low temperature installations steel with an adequate impact strength should be used paying regard to thickness, the lowest service temperature and the tost procedure. B.2.3 High alloy steel! may be required at low temperature and where corrosion risks are present. The impact strength should be adequate for the particular duty and the material suitable for welding as required B3 Non-ferrous metals and their alloys (cast, forged, rolled and drawn) 8.3.1 Copper and copper alloys Copper in contact with refrigerants should be oxygen-troe ‘or deoxidized. Copper alloys (for example brass and bronze) may be used after testing their compatibility with the refrigerant. Copper and alloys with a high percentage of copper should not be used for parts carrying ammonia. B.3.2 Aluminium and aluminium alloys ‘Aluminium used for gaskets with ammonia should be of adequate purity (ie. at least 99.9 %). Aluminium alloys containing more than 2 % magnesium should not be usod with group 1 refrigerants unless proved satisfactory in ‘accordance with B.1 B.3.3 Magnesium Magnesium should not be used unless proved satisfactory in accordance with B.1. B.3.4 Zinc and zinc alloys Zine and its alloys should not be used unless proved satisfactory in accordance with B.1. B4 Brazing alloys Brazing alloys are used for high stresses and for tempera- tures below ~10 °C. Their alloy components should be tested for compatibility with refrigerants. B.5 Non-metallic materials B.5.1 Packing materials for sealing joints and for sealing stuffing boxes on fittings, ete. should be resistant to the refrigerants and refrigerating machine oils used and should be suitable for the temperatures occurring. The arrange ‘ments should be such as to minimize erosion which might cause leaks. B.6.2 Glass may bo used for gauges and for sight glassos, but it should be of special quality resistant to the pressures, temperatures and chemical actions which may B.5.3 Asbestos should not be used without precautions being taken. NOTE. Attention i dravn to varlous Guidance Notes on the use of asbestos lend by the HSE, Appendix C. Pipe supports and hangers C.1 General Al piping should be adequately supported, the supports ‘or hangers being sized to carry the weight of the pipe ineluding contents and where required insulation, C2 Spacing ‘The distance between supports depends on the size and service weight of the pipeline. The recommended maximum. spacing for single pipe supports is shown in table 7. ‘Table 7. Recommended maximum spacings for single pipe supports Pipe dimonsions ‘Spacing Copper pipe sizes outside diameter 18 to 22soft 1 2210 64 half hard 2 8410 67 half hard 3 Steel pipe sizes nominal bore mm m 18 to 25 2 3210 60 3 65 to 80 38 100 to 175 4 200 to 350 6 400 to 450 78 22BST BS*4434 89 MM 162469 0060739 5 mm BS 4434 : 1989 Appendix D Appendix D. Relationship between maximum working pressure and other pressures “The relationship between the maximum working pressure (MWP) and other pressuras referred to in this standard is shown in figure 1 Prossuro System Individual vessel or component (or part of system) | ----------- Rupture pressure Strength pressure test for castings Design prossure x 1.5 (or to construction standard if different) Strength test pressure for rolled or drawn components Design prossure x 1.3, (or to construction standard if different) Systom strength test pressure MWP x 1.3 Maximum leak test prossure Design pressure x 1.1 Leak test pressure range ure rl devin fully open Design press ex a system ak et rn | ‘System MP Prossure relief device operates ‘Systom MNP. Pressure limiting device operates MWP x 0.9 [NOTE 1. It is osontal that system values (aft of diagram) do not exceod component value (ight of diagram). (see 2.3.2) NOTE 2. Design pressure and maximum working pressure sre normally equal, Bt may fer for reasons unrelated to safety, 4, commoreial reaons, (see 2.3.2), Figure 1. Schematic diagram of the relationship between maximum working pressure and other pressures roforred to in this standard c 23BST BS*4434 89 MM LL24bb4 OOLO740 1 mm BS 4434 : 1989 Appendices € and F Appendix E, Minimum design pressures for selected refrigerants Minimum design pressures for selected refrigerants are given in table 8. ‘Table 8. Minimum design pressures” Refrigerant | Saturation temperature Low High pressure pressure | sido Side | water | Air eooled | cooled °c °c | °c | bar (gauge) 30 0.24 RW 40 0.72 50 13 30 64 R12 40 86 so [112 30 109 R22 40 143 50 | 185 R14 30 | 16 40 | 24 60 35 R600 30 78 40 10.4 so | 136 30 12.2 R602 40 168 so | 20.1 30 10.6 R717 40 145 so | 19.3 “Salction of higher desion presures may be required to setisty the maximum working pressure specified In 2.3.2 Apendix F. Ventilation and refrigerant detection in machinery rooms: F.1 Ventilation F.1.1 General ‘The subject of ventilation is complex and it is emphasized that the desigh of ventilation systems, particularly those required to reduce risk where flammable and toxie refrigerants are involved, should be referred to ventilation ‘engineering experts. Goneral guidelines are given in F.1.2 to F. F.1.2 Natural ventilation "Natural ventilation takes place mostly by air movement through doors and windows and openings in the wall and in the roof. This air movement is caused by wind pressure fon and tamperature differentials in the building. If natural ventilation is to be effective then it is nacossary to provide ppurpose:made openings or vents of adequate size in the ‘walls and/or roof. Because natural ventilation is affected by weather conditions itis only suitable for group 1 refrigerants F.1.3 Mechanical vonti F.1.3.1 General. Where mechanical ventilation is required the system designer has to ensure that the ventilation requirements for safety do not produce air velocities which cause discomfort to operators working in the machinery F.1,3.2 Machinery rooms. Ventilation of machinery rooms will be required for the following: (a) to remove the heat load generated by machinery ‘and apparatus; (b) to maintain refrigerant/air concentrations in accordance with Health and Safety Executive Guidance Note EH40 ‘Occupational Exposure Limits’; (c] to dissipate an emergency concentration as quickly 2s possible to reduce the risk of explosion, and to prevent the uncontrolled release of toxic or flammable rant from the machinery room, In order to satisfy (c) it may be necessary to have extra fans rather than relying on two speed fans. F.1.3.3 Emorgency ventilation, Mechanical ventilatic systems for group 2 and 3 re and sized to maintain the machinery room at a lower pressure than surrounding areas so that in the event of a substantial release of toxic or flammable refrigarant there is no escape to surrounding areas. Where ventilation is required to remove flammable ges or vapour the following should be considered. {a} The air flow rate should be sufficient to reduce the concentration of flammable gas or vapour to below the owar explosive limit. 24BSI BS*4434 89 MM Lb24669 OOLO74] 3 mm {(b) The associated oxtract fan motor should be mounted outside the ducting. Consideration should be given to ‘the material of construction of the fan and ducting to reduce the likelihood of sparking due to friction or static lectricity. All ducts and associated items should be of fire resistant materials. Fa 3.4 Ventilation discharge. Air from mechanical ventilation systems should always discharge in a safe place, away from occupied areas, ventilation system inlets, ‘opening windows and doors, and sources of ignition, F.1.3.5 Air changes. Tho torm alr changes as used by ventilation engingors in the past Is mainly rostricted to ‘normal environmental conditions. When it is used for the dispersion of flammable or toxic gas mixtures the number Of air changes is significantly largor and the ventilation equipment has to be designed accordingly. For emergency conditions a figure of 10 to 15 alr changes per hour Is, recommended. It should be noted that these figures may not be sufficient to maintain a toxicity safe atmosphere in the machinery room. When the alarm is activated the room should be evacuated and not entered again until declared safe by suitably qualified personnel. F.1.3.6 Refrigerants heavier or lighter than air. Refrigerants ‘may be heavier or lightor than air, therefore tho molecular ‘mass of the refrigerant should be compared with air when assessing the ventilation requirements. For heavier than air rofrigorants, itis recommended that at least 60 % of ‘the exhaust volume is taken from the lowost point in the machinery room adjacont to the main potential leak sources and the remaining quantity exhausted from high level. BS 4434 : 1989 ‘Appendix F For lighter than air refrigerants the exhaust volume should bbe taken from high level, care being taken that pockets of stagnant air/refrigerant cannot accumulate between beams, ote, F2 Detection F.2.1 General Detectors are only a means of providing a signal to isolate equipment which does not meet the requirements of BS 5945 : Part 1 (see appendix G) or a means of detect- ing a toxic atmosphere. They do not prevent the formation of a flammable concentration of group 2 and group 3 refrigerants, or a toxic concentration of refrigerants F.2.2 Use of detectors F.2.2.1 Area of coverage. A detector will normally cover an area of about 36 m? provided it is mounted near ling level or near floor level depending on the refrigerant density (soe F.1.3.6). F.2.2.2 Machinery rooms. itis recommended that detectors are sited above or to both sides of compressors or other non statie parts of the system or down wind of such equipment in the direction of continuously operating ventilation extracts. Where there are deep beams and lightor than air refrigerants itis recommended that the dotectors are mounted between pairs of beams and also (on the underside of the beams. 25BS 4434 Appen BSI BS*4434 89 MM LL24LL4 OOLO742 S mw 1989 G Appendix G. Guide to the selection of electrical apparatus for hazardous (potentially explosive) areas Electrical apparatus for hazardous areas should be selected in accordance with figure 2. Start >. ‘Are the criteria of hazardous area BS 5345 : Part 1 being adopted? No Y ‘Whether leakage detection is by personnel ‘or gas detactor ensure that detection takes place and electrical apparatus is rendered safe before a flammable concentration of refrigerant can reach a source of ignition. ‘This is particularly critical where normally sparking non-explosion protected electrical ‘apparatus or electrical apparatus with ‘temperatures above 630 °C is installed. — Is the machinery room continuously menned? —_- Continuously manned Main electrical considerations: {a} isolation of all electrical circuits effected manually or automatically by circuit breaker{s) located in a safe placo; (b) the manual initiation of circuit breakers in (a) above controlled by strategically placed push buttons located immediately outside the machinery room; (6). the push buttons also activate visual ‘and audible alarms and mechanical ventil Unmanned Main electrical considerations: (a) suitable refrigerant detector dovicos strategically sited; (b) isolation of all electrical circuits effected by circuit breakers located ine safe place; (6) visual and audible alarms and ‘mechanical ventilation also activated by the detector devices. ‘assessment and apparatus selection in || determined and selection of electrical ‘The hazardous zone(s) obtaining should be apparatus carried out in accordance with BS 6245 : Part 1 No further action required {s any electrical apparatus required to ‘operate in the area after detection of a leakage? Figure 2. Selection of électrical apparatus for hazardous (potentially explosive) areas” ‘This Figure is reproduced withthe kind permission of the Institute of Refrigeration, 26Appendix H. Guide to the operation and maintenance of commercial and industrial refrigerating appliances and systems in relation to safety H.1 General Whilst following this guidance, the user of refrigerating appliances and systems should be aware of the important contribution that can be made to refrigeration safety, and performance, by operating within the design conditions. A data-logging system kept on a strictly routine day-to-day basis, either by use of hand entered data on ‘traditional log sheets or modern electronic data-logging systems offering potential for remote monitoring and recording, is a valuable and recommended means to this end, ‘Analysis of operational and performance data on a routine basis will give warning to the operator of a deteriorating performance and possible hazards, when compared with normal design operation. H.2 Operational instructions Every refrigerating system should have briefly worded Instructions for operation affixed in a conspicuous position (on or near the machinery, including: (a) brief instructions for stopping and starting the system; (b) instructions for stopping the system in an emergency. NOTE. For unit systems this information should be deivered with the unit system, 3 Personnel instructions H.3.1. Responsibilities of the user ‘The user is responsible for the safety of operating personnel and itis essential that they should be adequately instructed. H.3.2 General instructions ‘The installer or manufacturer is required by the Health and Sofety at Work etc, Act 1974* to draw the attention of the ser to the need for adequate instruction of personnel and in addition to operational instructions the following are pertinent. (a) The extra danger to health from dacomposition products caused by smoking or naked flames in the prosence of certain refrigerants. (b) In the case of systems assembled and installed on site itis advantageous for operating personnel to be present during their assembly, evacuation, charging with refrigerant (c) Before a new system is put into service, the operating personnel should be instructed, proferably by the Installer or manufacturer, concerning the operation, *Avellale from Her Majesty's Stationery Office. BST BS*4434 89 MM DL246b5 OOLO743 7 mm maintenance of the system and safety measures to be taken, 1.3.3 Emergency procedures ‘Tho user of every systom containing group 2 oF group 3 refrigerants should prepare a suitable plan of evacuation of areas likely to be affected in the event of a leak of the rofrigerant. This may be the same as evacuation procedures, In the case of fire. The procedure should detail respons. ibilities for rescue and plant isolation. Its essential that suitable training is given to personnel liable to be affected by the evacuation procedures. H.34 Safety of personnel in cold rooms H.3.4.1. Attention is drawn to the danger of persons being unable to move, e.g. due to an accident, or being inadver- tantly locked in cold rooms, especially in those having ‘temperatures below 0 °C. Some measures to increase safety are given in H.3.4.2 and H3.4.3, 1.3.4.2 A person should not work alone in a cold room. However, if this is unavoidable the person’s safety should be verified at least every hour. H.3.4.3 Soveral minutos after work ceases, a responsible person should make a duty round so as to ensure thet no ‘one has remained behind in the cold rooms and to lock ‘them after it has boon ascertained that they are clear of personnel. H4 Operating precautions H.4.1 Protection of compressors from liquid ref and oil entering the inlet connection, Al compressors, particularly modern high speed machines, are designed to pump refrigerant gas only and neod to be protected by suitable design features to prevent liquid refrigerant and free oil droplets entering the inlet side of the compressor. In the caso of reciprocating compressors, liquid hammer rosulting from liquid refrigerant and/or free oll that has entered the cylinders can severely damage the valves and in extreme cases can lead to breakage of the compressor housing, cylinder liners (if fitted), pistons, connecting rods, valve gear and mounting plates, and the cylinder hhaed covers. Similar or rolated damage can be caused in other types of compressor. Care should therefore be taken, both during running and at start up, that any excessive quantity of liquid refrigerant oF oll cannot enter the compression chamber of the com- pressor. The separation of liquid should be adequate to censure dry aspiration, if required. Condensation of refrigerant in or near the compressor due ‘to a low ambient temperature should be prevented, for example by moans of heating; this applies in particular when the compressor is not running. The discharge line may be fitted with a check valve to prevent refrigerant entering the compressor during shut down, 27BST BS*4434 89 MM Ub2469 OObO744 9 mm BS 4434 : 1989 Appendix H H.4.2 Protection of persons from fans and other moving ‘machinery Fans and all moving machinery should be guarded at ell ‘times in accordance with BS 5304, 1.3.3 Transfer, substitution and storage of rafri nts 1.3.3.1. Transfer. When adding or removing refrigerant the following should be taken into account. {a) Extreme care should be taken not to fill the refrigerating system beyond the quantities permitted and marked (see 2.2, 3.6 and 4.4), () Full attention should be given to the content of refrigerant containers in order to prevent charging with the wrong refrigerant. (c) Refrigerant containers should be disconnected from the system immediately on completion of a transfer of refrigerant. (a) Refrigorant containers should not be heated during the transfer process. H.3.3.2 Substitution, Conversion of a refrigerating system for usa with another refrigerant should only be carried out under the guidance of a competent person. H3.3.3 Refrigerant stored in a machinery room. Refrigerant containers should not be stored in a machinery room. Separate storage areas should be provided for this purpose, the siting of which should take into account toxicity and fire hazards, H.5 Maintenance and decommissioning H.5.1 General All parts of refrigerating systems should be properly maintained so as to avoid damage to equipment and danger to persons. Accumulation of dirt and debris should be prevented and accessibility should not be impaired. H.5.2 Repair of faults and leakages Faults and leakages should be repsired promptly and if ‘this cannot be done by the operating staff, a compotont servica mechanic should be instructed to repair the defect, H.5.3 Pressure gauges and safety instruments/controls Pressure gauges and all instruments and controls installed as safety measures should be maintained in good working ‘order and should be regularly checked and particularly whenever any work has been earried out on the system. H.5.4 Repairs (use of arc and flame producing equipment) 'No repair work should be carried out until the following precautions have been taken. {2} Isolation of the sections to be repaired, removal of all refrigerant (liquid and gas) and purging with inert 92s. (b) Thorough ventilation of rooms. (c} Mechanical ventilation with doors and windows opt open during repair. (d) The presence of a second person for observation and assistance. (e) Availability of protective equipment and, in the case of open flames or arcs, fire extinguishing equipment should be ready to hand, All non routine work on systems containing liquid or gaseous hazardous refrigerants (i.e. toxic, flammable, etc.) should be subject to a strict permit to work system under the control of a person who is fully aware of the potential hazards and the precautions required. [No hot work should be carried out on any system or equipment that contains, or has contained, flammable ‘materials until all such materials (including vapours, oils and residues) have been either completely removed from ‘the system or equipment or, alternatively, rendered non-flammable, Inert gas used for purging should be vented down to atmospheric pressure before burning or welding commences. H.5.5 Decommissioning ‘When decommissioning, as much of the refrigerant as is Possible should be transferred to suitable containers using ‘normal production pumps. NOTE 1. Contsiners provided for the supply of now refrigerant should not be employed as containers for used refrigorant without prior consent of the owners ofthe containers since this may lead to the contaminstion ofthe container ‘Any residual liquid left inthe system should be removed by an acceptable method. NOTE 2. Acceptable methods for removal of residual substances could include the eveporation of lguid duo to heat goin than urge, ensuring enough purge gas can enter to prevent the cretion ff 8 vacuum (group 2 vrerigorans) oF fore off vapour (group 3 refrigerants), Surplus or unusable refrigerants should either be returned to the original supplier or a similar organization for reprocessing or be disposed of as special waste through an ‘organization licanced for the disposal of hazardous waste. NOTE 3. Special wosto is 9 controlled waste consieting of or Containing substances thet could be dengerous to health or hove fa flesh point of 21°C or les and lieted inthe Control of Pollution (Special Wasto) Roguletions 1980. For transport andl storage purposes the suitable containers should be appropriately labelled. NOTE 4, Attontion is drawn to the Clasitication, Packaging ond Labelling of Dangerous Substances Regulations 1984 (as amended ‘086 and 1988), H.56 Discharging Refrigerants are riot to be discharged into watercourses {unless subject to specific consent by the Water Authority), drains or sewers, H.87 Gas detectors Gas detection apparatus and systems should be checked and tested for correct electrical operation and positive response to the gas being detected. NOTE. For guidance on the selection installation, ute and rmaintananee of combustible gee detection apparatus soo BS 6969. For the performance of auch enperatut, 0 BS 6020, 28>BSI BSx4434 89 MM Lb246b9 OOLO74S O mM H.6 Protection equipment H.6.1. General For the protection of people and property, equipment ‘appropriate to the size of the system and type of refrigerant should be provided. H.6.2 Fire extinguishing equipment Appropriate fire extinguishing equipment should be avail- able. The extinguishing fluid should be chosen carefully, {as recommended by the refrigerant supplier. 1.6.3 Porsonnol protection equipment 16.3.1 General. Suitable protection equipment should be provided for persons who may be exposed to potentially dangerous concentrations of refrigerant. This protective equipment may include respiratory protective equipment, gloves, eye protection and impervious suits. This protec- ‘tivo aquipment should be carefully and safely stored, {free from Interference and be readily available in the vicinity of the installation but external to the area of risk. Tho protective equipment should be placed in the charge of a responsible person who has the task of ensuring that It is thoroughly examined at least once a month by a competent person and @ report of every examination should be kept. NOTE 1. The Factors Act 1961, Section 30 and the Breathing ‘Apparatus etc. (Report of Examination) Order 1961 makes specie requirements for the provision and maintenance of protective equipmant. “Availabe from Her Majesty's Stationery Offic, BS 4434 1989 ropriate standard of personal protsetion Including ratory protective equipment will depend on the nature of the igarant. Cartridge respirators are not gonerallysultable for work Involving groupe 2 and cerigerante exept for immediate emergency escape purposes, Canister respirators are only sulteble {or limited exposure to these rerigorants For any work whee there is the possibilty of more then minor leaks of those gases, slf-contalned breathing apparatus to 8S 4667 : Parts 1 nnd 2 of arline breathing apparatus to BS 4067 Part isttkely to be required. Dotalls of sultable respiratory otuctive equipment are con (Greathing Appar Health and Safety Executive® 1.6.3.2 Respiratory equipment for group 2 refrigerants. For group 2 refrigerants in charges of 10 kg up to and Including 500 kg there should be at least one set of approved respiratory equipment; if the charge exceeds 500 kg at least two sets should be provided, 1.6.3.3 Training. All personnel who may have to wear respiratory protection or other protective clothing should be fully trained in its safe use. H.64 First aid equipment Suitable first aid provisions should be made to deal with exposure to hazardous concentrations of toxic refrigerants and the effects of intense cold in addition to other likely risks. The provisions should be in accordance with the Health and Safety (First Aid) Regulations 1981 and the Approved Code of Practice which complements it. 29“BST BS*4434 84 MM LL24Gb9 OOLO74L 2 mm Publications referred to 8s 476 8s 1710 85 1723 Bs 1845 8S 2633 8S 2871 Bs 2015 882971 85.2274 85 3486 8S 4067 Bs 4089 85 4000 85.5304 85 6345 85 6265 85 6378 8S 6500 BS 5501 8S 6588 8s 6020 8S 6759 8s 6959 18S 7005 Fee tess on building materials and structures ia forthe fire resstanceof elements of building construction ‘Specification for identifieation of pipelines and sarees Brazing Part 1 Specification for brazing ‘Spocfication for flr metals for brazing tion for eopper and copper alloys, Tubes Pert 2 Tubes for goneral purposes Specification for bursting lites and bursting dis devieas Specification for Class I? ere welding of carbon steel pipework for csrrying fluids Spacifletion for tubular heat exchanger for gon Specification for safety of Household snd sniier Part 101 General requirements Pert 102 Particular requiramonts Section 102.24 Rerigerators end food freezers Breathing opperctus Port 1 Closed-circult bresthing apparatus Port 2 Opon-eircult bresthing apparatus Pert 3 Fresh al hose and compressed alt line brasthing apparatus Specification for electrical apparatus for explosive atmospheres, General requirements for rotating electrical machines Pert 20 Classification of types of enclosure (Code of practice for safeguarding of machinery Code of practice for seloction, Installation, and maintenance of electrical apperatus for use in potentially explosive _atmoxphores (other than mining applications or explosive procesing and manufecture) Part 1 Basle requirements forall Prts of the code ‘Spectieation for filing ratios and davoloped pressure for iquefiable and permanant gases Safoty signs and colou Part 1 Specification for colour and design ‘Spoefietion for untied fusion welded pressure vesels Pparatus for potentially explosive atmosphere ons inthe design and construction of bulldings Part 2 Code of practice for shops Intrumonts forthe detection of combustible gases Safety vals Part 3 Specification for safety valves for process fuide (Code of practice for selection installation, use and maintenance of apparatus forthe detection of combustible gases {other than for mining eppieations or explosives processing and manufacture) Specification for design and manufacture of earbon steel Untied pressure vertels fr use in vapour compression refrigeration systems Previous page is blankeT OSsuuak AG ww LL ULLG ooninz _ BSI BS*4434 89 MH Lb24bb9 OObO74? 4 mm ‘This British Standard, having boon proparad under the rection of the Refrigeration, Heating and Air Conditioning Standards Policy Committe, wee published under the authority ofthe Board of BSt ‘and comes into effect on 31 Mey 1889, (© British Standards institution, 1989 First published as BS 4434 85 4434 first amend oe BS 4434 : Part 1, February 1976 Pare 2 first published, February 1976 First revision, Port 1, March 1980 Second vavsion a8 85-4434, Mey 1989 '80N 0 580 17228 7 ‘The following BSI references relate to the work on this standard: Committee reference RHE/18. Draft for comment 86/76176 OC British Standards Institution. Incorporated by Hoyal Charter, BSI is the independent nations! Body for the praparation of British Standords. Iris the UK member of the Internationa Organization for Standardization and UK sponsor of the British National, ‘Committee of the International Eletrotechnieal Commission, In addition to the preparation and promulestion of standards, 81 offers specialist services including the provision of Information ‘through the BS! Library ond Standardine Database; Technicel Help te Exporters: and other services. Advice can be obtained trom the Enquiry Section, BSI, Milton Keynes MICI4 GLE, tslephone (0808 221166, telex 626772 (Copyright. Users of British Standard are reminded that copyright subsists in all SI publications. No part of this publication may bo BS 4434 : 1989 reproduced in any form without the prior permission in writing of BSI. This doos not preclude the tre use, in the course of Implementing the standard, of necesery deals such as symbols and Size, type or grade designations, Engutles shouldbe addresad to the Publications Manager, BSI, Linford Wood, Milton Keynes MK 14 GLE. The number for telephone enquiries i 0908 220022 ‘and for telex 825777. Contract requirements. A British Standard does not purport to Include all the necessary provsione of a contract. Users of British Stondards are responsibe for thelr coreect application ‘Revision of British Standard, British Standards are reveed, when rnacessoy, by tho insu either of amendments or of reviged editions. {tis important that users of British Standards should ascotain that ‘they ate in possesion ofthe latest amendments or eitions. Automatic updating sevice. BSI provides an economic, individual and automatic standards updating sorvies called PLUS. Detlls ae ‘uailabe from BSI Enquiry Section at Mion Keynes, telephone (0908 221166, olx 825777 Information on all 851 publications isin the 89Y Catafogue, supplemented each month by BS! News which is available to {ubscribing members of 851 and gives details of now publications, Fovisions, amendments ond withdrawn standards. Any person who, when making use of a British Standard, encounters an inaccuracy Gr {mbiguity 1s requested to notify BSI without delay in order that the mator may bo investigated and eppropriatesetion taken, e Committees responsible for this British Standard ‘The proparation of this British Standard wos entrusted by the Fetrigeration, Heeting and Air Concitioning Standards Policy Committe (RHE/,) to Technical Committze RHE/T8, upon which the following bodies ware raprosented: ‘Associated Ofticas Technical Committoo ‘Association of Manufecturers of Domestic Electvicel Appliances Brith Garp. British Fetrigeration Association CChertered Institution of Bullding Sarvices Engineers Department of the Environment (Property Services Agency) Health and Sofety Exacutive Heating and Ventilating Contractors! Association Ice Cream Federation Limited Instituto of Refrigeration Liqueties Petroleum Gas Industry Technical Association (UK) Lloyds Register of Shipping National Cold Storage Federation United Kinadom Association of Frazen Food Producers ‘Amendments issued since publication ‘Amd. No, Date of issue | Text affected 6861: verrSa British Standards Institution . 2 Park Street London W1A 28S. Telephone 01-629 9000 - Telex 266933 18005- 8-1.6-8 RHE