Refrigerating Systems and Heat Pumps - Safety and Environmental Requirements

BRITISH STANDARD BS EN
378-1:2000
Incorporating
Amendment No. 1
Refrigerating systems
and heat pumps —
Safety and
environmental
requirements —
Part 1: Basic requirements, definitions,
classification and selection criteria
The European Standard EN 378-1:2000, incorporating amendment

A1:2003, has the status of a British Standard
ICS 27.080; 27.200
12&23<,1*:,7+287%6,3(50,66,21(;&(37$63(50,77('%<&23<5,*+7/$:
BS EN 378-1:2000
National foreword
This British Standard is the official English language version of

EN 378-1:2000, including amendment A1:2003. BS EN 378-1:2000 supersedes
BS EN 378-1:1995 and together with BS EN 378-2:2000, BS EN 378-3:2000
and BS EN 378-4:2000 supersedes BS 4434:1995 which is withdrawn.
The UK participation in its preparation was entrusted to Technical Committee
RHE/18, Refrigeration safety, which has the responsibility to:
— aid enquirers to understand the text;
— present to the responsible international/European committee any

enquiries on the interpretation, or proposals for change, and keep the
UK interests informed;
— monitor related international and European developments and
promulgate them in the UK.
A list of organizations represented on this committee can be obtained on

request to its secretary.
Cross-references
The British Standards which implement international or European
publications referred to in this document may be found in the BSI Catalogue
under the section entitled “International Standards Correspondence Index”, or
by using the “Search” facility of the BSI Electronic Catalogue or of British
Standards Online.
This publication does not purport to include all the necessary provisions of a
contract. Users are responsible for its correct application.
Compliance with a British Standard does not of itself confer immunity
from legal obligations.
This British Standard, having Summary of pages

been prepared under the
direction of the Engineering This document comprises a front cover, an inside front cover, the EN title page,
Sector Committee, was pages 2 to 47 and a back cover.
published under the authority
of the Standards Committee The BSI copyright notice displayed in this document indicates when the
and comes into effect on document was last issued.
15 September 2000
Amendments issued since publication
Amd. No. Date Comments
14930 20 February 2004 Revision of EN foreword page, deletion of

Annex ZA and subsequent renumbering
© BSI 20 February 2004
Annex ZB as Annex ZA
ISBN 0 580 34215 8

EUROPEAN STANDARD EN 378-1
June 2000
NORME EUROPÉENNE
+ A1
EUROPÄISCHE NORM December 2003
ICS 01.040.27; 27.080; 27.200 Supersedes EN 378:1994
English version
Refrigerating systems and heat pumps - Safety and

environmental requirements - Part 1: Basic requirements,
definitions, classification and selection criteria
(includes amendment A1:2003)
Systèmes de réfrigération et pompes à chaleur - Exigences Kälteanlagen und Wärmepumpen - Sicherheitstechnische
de sécurité et d'environnement - Partie 1 : Exigences de und umweltrelevante Anforderungen - Teil 1: Grundlegende
base, définitions, classification et critères de choix Anforderungen, Definitionen, Klassifikationen und
(inclut l’amendement A1:2003) Auswahlkriterien
(enthält Änderung A1:2003)
This European Standard was approved by CEN on 11 November 1999. Amendment A1 was approved by CEN on 20 November 2003.
CEN members are bound to comply with the CEN/CENELEC Internal Regulations which stipulate the conditions for giving this European
Standard the status of a national standard without any alteration. Up-to-date lists and bibliographical references concerning such national
standards may be obtained on application to the Central Secretariat or to any CEN member.
This European Standard exists in three official versions (English, French, German). A version in any other language made by translation
under the responsibility of a CEN member into its own language and notified to the Central Secretariat has the same status as the official
versions.
CEN members are the national standards bodies of Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece,
Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Slovakia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and
United Kingdom.
EUROPEAN COMMITTEE FOR STANDARDIZATION

COMITÉ EUROPÉEN DE NORMALISATION
EUROPÄISCHES KOMITEE FÜR NORMUNG
Central Secretariat: rue de Stassart, 36 B-1050 Brussels
© 2000 CEN All rights of exploitation in any form and by any means reserved Ref. No. EN 378-1:2000 + A1:2003 E
worldwide for CEN national Members.
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EN 378-1:2000
Contents
Page
Foreword......................................................................................................................................................3
Introduction .................................................................................................................................................4
1 Scope .............................................................................................................................................5
2 Normative references ...................................................................................................................6
3 Definitions .....................................................................................................................................6
4 Basic requirements.....................................................................................................................11
5 Classification...............................................................................................................................15
6 Selection of refrigerants.............................................................................................................21
7 Selection of cooling or heating systems ..................................................................................22
Annex A (informative) Equivalent terms in English, French and German ...........................................24
Annex B (informative) Total equivalent warming impact (TEWI) ..........................................................28
Annex C (informative) Location of refrigerating systems .....................................................................31
Annex D (informative) Protection of people who are inside cold rooms .............................................38
Annex E (informative) Information about refrigerants...........................................................................39
Annex F (informative) Risk assessment .................................................................................................45
Annex G (informative) Bibliography........................................................................................................46
Annex ZA (informative) A-deviations ......................................................................................................47

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EN 378-1:2000
Foreword
This European Standard has been prepared by Technical Committee CEN/TC 182 Refrigerating systems, safety and
environmental requirements, the secretariat of which is held by DIN.
This European Standard supersedes EN 378:1994.
This European Standard shall be given the status of a national standard, either by publication of an identical text or by
endorsement, at the latest by December 2000, and conflicting national standards shall be withdrawn at the latest by
December 2000.
This document has been prepared under a mandate given to CEN by the European Commission and the European Free
Trade Association.
NOTE 1: This European Standard had also been proposed for inclusion in the mandate under the
EU Directive 89/392/EEC (Machinery Directive). As the mandate has been given after the Standard
had been accepted by the Technical Committee for submission to formal vote and in order not to
further delay its publication, it will be reviewed within the context of the latest version of the Machinery
Directive directly after the publication.
This EN 378-1:1999 is part of a standard consisting of a series of the following parts:
Part 1 Basic requirements, definitions, classification and selection criteria
Part 2 Design, construction, testing, marking and documentation
Part 3 Installation site and personal protection
Part 4 Operation, maintenance, repair and recovery
For the 6-month enquiry, the draft standard was issued in 13 parts. After the discussion of the comments received during the
enquiry it was decided to rearrange the content of 12 parts and to publish the final standard in the above 4 parts. The
remaining part 13 will be published as a separate standard.
The annexes A, B, C, D, E, F, G and ZA of this European Standard are informative.
According to the CEN/CENELEC Internal Regulations, the national standards organizations of the following countries are
bound to implement this European Standard: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany,
Greece, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and the United
Kingdom.
Foreword to amendment A1
This document EN 378-1:2000/A1:2003 has been prepared by Technical Committee CEN/TC 182 Refrigerating systems,
safety and environmental requirements, the secretariat of which is held by DIN.
This Amendment to the European Standard EN 378-1:2000 shall be given the status of a national standard, either by
publication of an identical text or by endorsement, at the latest by June 2004, and conflicting national standards shall be
withdrawn at the latest by June 2004.
This document has been prepared under a mandate given to CEN by the European Commission and the European Free
Trade Association.
According to the CEN/CENELEC Internal Regulations, the national standards organizations of the following countries are
bound to implement this European Standard: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany,
Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Slovakia, Spain, Sweden,
Switzerland and the United Kingdom.
Page 4
EN 378-1:2000
Introduction
This European Standard relates to safety and environmental requirements in the design, construction, manufacture,
installation, operation, maintenance and disposal of refrigerating systems and appliances in respect to the local and
global environments, but not to the final destruction of the refrigerants.
The term "refrigerating system" used in this standard includes heat pumps.
It is intended to minimize possible hazards to persons, property and the environment from refrigerating systems and
refrigerants. These hazards are associated essentially with the physical and chemical characteristics of refrigerants
as well as the pressures and temperatures occurring in refrigeration cycles.
Inadequate precautions may result in:
– rupture of a part or even an explosion, with risk from projected materials;
– escape of refrigerant due to a fracture, a leakage caused by bad design, incorrect operation, and inadequate
maintenance, repair, charging or disposal;
– burning or explosion of escaping refrigerant with consequent risk of fire.
Refrigerants, their mixtures and combinations with oils, water or other materials, which are present in the refrigerating
system, intended or unintended, affect the internal surrounding materials chemically and physically for example due to
pressure and temperature. They can, if they have detrimental properties, endanger persons, property and the environment
directly or indirectly due to global longterm effects (ODP,GWP) when escaping from the refrigerating system. The
specifications of such refrigerants, mixtures and combinations are given in other standards and are not included in this
standard.
Hazards due to the states of pressure and temperature in refrigerating systems are essentially due to the simultaneous
presence of the liquid and vapour phases. Furthermore, the state of the refrigerant and the stresses that it exerts on the
various components do not depend solely on the processes and functions inside the plant, but also from external causes.
The following hazards are worthy of note:
a) from the direct effect of low temperature, for example:
– brittleness of materials at low temperatures;

– freezing of enclosed liquid (water, brine or similar);
– thermal stresses;
– changes of volume due to temperature changes;
– injurious effects to persons caused by low temperatures;
b) from excessive pressure due to, for example:
– increase in the pressure of condensation, caused by inadequate cooling or the partial pressure of
noncondensable gases or an accumulation of oil or liquid refrigerant;
– increase in the pressure of saturated vapour due to excessive external heating, for example of a liquid cooler, or
when defrosting an air cooler or high ambient temperature when the plant is at a standstill;
– expansion of liquid refrigerant in a closed space without the presence of vapour, caused by a rise in external
temperature;
– fire;
c) from the direct effect of the liquid phase, for example:
– excessive charge or flooding of equipment;

– presence of liquid in compressors, caused by syphoning, or condensation in the compressor;
– liquid hammer in piping;
– loss of lubrication due to emulsification of oil;
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EN 378-1:2000
d) from the escape of refrigerants, for example:
– fire;
– explosion;
– toxicity;
– caustic effects;
– freezing of skin;
– asphyxiation;
– panic;
– depletion of the ozone layer;
– global warming;
e) from the moving parts of machinery, for example:
– injuries;
– hearing loss from excessive noise;
– damage due to vibration.
Attention is drawn to hazards common to all compression systems, such as excessive temperature at discharge, liquid
slugging, erroneous operation or reduction in mechanical strength caused by corrosion, erosion, thermal stress, liquid
hammer or vibration.
Corrosion, however, should have special consideration as conditions peculiar to refrigerating systems arise due to alternate
frosting and defrosting or the covering of equipment by insulation.
The above analysis of the hazards applying to refrigerating systems explains the plan on which this European Standard has
been based.
1 Scope
1.1 This European Standard specifies the requirements relating to safety of persons and property, but not goods in storage,
and the local and global environment for:
a) stationary and mobile refrigerating systems of all sizes, including heat pumps;
b) secondary cooling or heating systems; and
c) the location of these refrigerating systems.
1.2 For refrigerating systems with a limited mass of refrigerant only some of the parts and clauses are applicable. The
exceptions are defined in the scope and the clauses of each Part of EN 378.
1.3 This European Standard is not applicable to refrigerating systems with air or water as refrigerant.
1.4 This European Standard covers the hazards mentioned in the introduction.
1.5 This European Standard is applicable to new refrigerating systems. The part dealing with maintenance, repair,
operation, recovery, reuse and disposal also applies to existing systems. Parties responsible for existing refrigerating
systems should consider the safety and environmental aspects of this European Standard and implement the more
stringent requirements so far as they are reasonably practicable.
The extent to which hazards are covered is indicated in the introduction. In addition, machinery should comply as appropriate
with EN 292-1 and EN 292-2 for hazards which are not covered by this standard.
NOTE Directive 94/9/EC concerning equipment and protective systems intended for use in potentially explosive
atmospheres can be applicable to the type of machine or equipment covered by this European standard. The
present standard is not intended to provide means of complying with the essential health and safety requirements
of Directive 94/4/EC.
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EN 378-1:2000
2 Normative references
This European Standard incorporates, by dated or undated reference, provisions from other publications. These normative
references are cited at the appropriate places in the text and the publications are listed hereafter. For dated references,
subsequent amendments to or revisions of any of these publications apply to this European Standard only when
incorporated in it by amendment or revision. For undated references, the latest edition of the publication referred to applies.
EN 292-1 Safety of machinery – Basic concepts, general principles for design – Part 1: Basic terminology, methodology
EN 292-2 Safety of machinery – Basic concepts, general principles for design – Part 2: Technical principles and
specifications
EN 294 Safety of machinery – Safety distances to prevent danger zones being reached by the upper limbs
3 Definitions
For the purposes of this European Standard the following definitions apply:
NOTE: See informative annex A for equivalent terms in English, French and German.
3.1 Refrigerating systems
3.1.1 refrigerating system [heat pump]: Combination of interconnected refrigerant-containing parts constituting one
closed refrigerant circuit in which the refrigerant is circulated for the purpose of extracting and rejecting heat
(i.e. cooling, heating).
3.1.2 self-contained system: Complete factory-made refrigerating 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.
3.1.3 unit system: Self-contained system that has been assembled, filled ready for use and tested prior to its installation
and is installed without need for connecting any refrigerant containing parts; a unit system can include factory assembled
companion or block valves.
3.1.4 limited charge system: Refrigerating system in which the internal volume and total refrigerant charge are such that,
with the system idle, the allowable pressure will not be exceeded if complete evaporation of the refrigerant charge occurs.
3.1.5 absorption or adsorption system: Refrigerating system in which refrigeration is effected by evaporation of a
refrigerant, the vapour then being absorbed or adsorbed by an absorbent or adsorbent medium respectively, from
which it is subsequently expelled at a higher partial vapour pressure by heating and then liquefied by cooling.
3.1.6 secondary cooling or heating system: System employing a fluid which transfers heat from the product or
spaces to be cooled or heated or from another cooling or heating system to the refrigerating system.
3.1.7 closed system: Refrigerating system in which all refrigerant-containing parts are made tight by flanges,
screwed fittings or similar connections.
3.1.8 sealed system: Refrigerating system in which all refrigerant containing parts are made tight by welding,
brazing or a similar permanent connection.
3.1.9 high pressure side: Part of a refrigerating system operating at approximately the condenser pressure.
3.1.10 low pressure side: Part of a refrigerating system operating at approximately the evaporator pressure.
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EN 378-1:2000
3.1.11 mobile system: Refrigerating system which is normally in transit during operation.
NOTE: Mobile systems include the following:
– refrigerating systems in vessels, e.g. refrigerated cargo systems in ships, refrigerating systems in fishing
boats, air conditioning on board, refrigerating systems for provisions;
– transport refrigerating systems, e.g. transport of refrigerated cargo by road, train and containers;
– refrigerating systems for air conditioning in vehicles, e.g. cars, lorries, buses, excavators and cranes.
3.2 Occupancies, localities
3.2.1 special machinery room: Room or enclosure specially intended to contain, for reasons connected with safety
and environmental protection, components of the refrigerating system not accessible to the public but not including
rooms or enclosures containing only evaporators, condensers or piping.
3.2.2 human occupied space: Complete space which is occupied for a significant period by humans. Where the
spaces around the apparent human occupied space are, by construction or design, not air tight, these are considered
as part of the human occupied space, e.g. false ceiling voids, crawl ways, ducts, movable partitions and doors with
transfer grilles.
3.2.3 air lock: Isolating chamber provided with separate entrance and exit doors allowing passage from one place to
another whilst isolating one from the other.
3.2.4 lobby: Entrance hall or large hallway serving as a waiting room.
3.2.5 hallway: Corridor for the passage of people.
3.2.6 exit: Opening in the outer wall, with or without a door or gate.
3.2.7 exit passageway: Passageway immediately in the vicinity of the door through which people leave the building.
3.2.8 cold room: Room or cabinet, maintained by a refrigerating system at a temperature lower than ambient temperature.
3.2.9 direct communication: Communication where the partition wall between rooms contains an opening which can
optionally be shut by a door, window or hatch.
3.2.10 open air: Any unenclosed space, which may be roofed.
3.3 Pressures
3.3.1 gauge pressure: Pressure for which the value is equal to the algebraic difference between the absolute pressure
and atmospheric pressure [see EN 764].
NOTE: All pressures are gauge pressures, unless otherwise indicated.
3.3.2 maximum allowable pressure: Maximum pressure for which the equipment is designed, as specified by the
manufacturer.
NOTE 1: Limit to the operating pressure which should not be exceeded either when the system is working or
not, see EN 764.
NOTE 2: The Pressure Equipment Directive 97/23/EC identifies the maximum allowable pressure by the
symbol "PS".
3.3.3 design pressure: Pressure chosen for the derivation of the calculation pressure of each component, see EN 764.
NOTE: It is used for determining the necessary materials, thickness and construction for components with
regard to their ability to withstand pressure.
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EN 378-1:2000
3.3.4 strength test pressure: Pressure that is applied to test the strength of a refrigerating system or any part of it.
3.3.5 leakage test pressure: Pressure that is applied to test a system or any part of it for pressure tightness.
3.3.6 maximum declared pressure: Pressure declared by the manufacturer of the component or device to which it
may be subjected without reducing its performance.
3.3.7 ultimate strength of a system: Pressure at which a part of the system ruptures or bursts.
3.4 Components of refrigerating systems
3.4.1 refrigerating installation: Assembly of components of a refrigerating system and all the apparatus necessary
for its operation.
3.4.2 refrigerating equipment: Components forming a part of the refrigerating system, e.g. compressor, condenser,
generator, absorber, adsorber, liquid receiver, evaporator, surge drum.
3.4.3 compressor: Device for mechanically increasing the pressure of a refrigerant vapour.
3.4.4 motorcompressor: Fixed combination of electrical motor and compressor in one unit.
3.4.4.1 hermetic motorcompressor: Combination consisting of a compressor and electrical motor, both of which
are enclosed in the same housing, with no external shaft or shaft seals, the electrical motor operating in a mixture of
oil and refrigerant vapour.
3.4.4.2 semihermetic (accessible hermetic) motorcompressor: Combination consisting of a compressor and

electrical motor, both of which are enclosed in the same housing, having removable covers for access, but having no
external shaft or shaft seals, the electrical motor operating in a mixture of oil and refrigerant vapour.
3.4.4.3 canned rotor motorcompressor: Motorcompressor within a sealed housing not enclosing the motor windings
and having no external shaft.
3.4.5 open compressor: Compressor having a drive shaft penetrating the refrigerant-tight housing.
3.4.6 positive displacement compressor: Compressor in which compression is obtained by changing the internal
volume of the compression chamber.
3.4.7 non-positive displacement compressor: Compressor in which compression is obtained without changing the
internal volume of the compression chamber.
3.4.8 pressure vessel: Any refrigerant-containing part of a refrigerating system other than:
– compressors;
– pumps;
– component parts of sealed absorption systems;
– evaporators, each separate section of which does not exceed 15 l of refrigerant containing volume;
– coils and grids;
– piping and its valves, joints and fittings;
– control devices;
– headers and other components having an internal diameter of not greater than 152 mm and an internal net
volume of not greater than 100 l.
3.4.9 condenser: Heat exchanger in which vaporized refrigerant is liquified by removal of heat.
3.4.10 liquid receiver: Vessel permanently connected to a system by inlet and outlet pipes for accumulation of liquid
refrigerant.
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EN 378-1:2000
3.4.11 evaporator: Heat exchanger in which liquid refrigerant is vaporized by absorbing heat from the substance to
be cooled.
3.4.12 coil: Part of the refrigerating system constructed from bent or straight pipes or tubes suitably connected and
serving as a heat exchanger (evaporator or condenser).
3.4.13 grid: Part of the refrigerating system constructed from bent or straight pipes or tubes suitably connected and
serving as a heat exchanger (evaporator or condenser).
3.4.14 compressor unit: Combination of one or more compressors and the regularly furnished accessories.
3.4.15 condensing unit: Combination of one or more compressors, condensers or liquid receivers (when required)
and the regularly furnished accessories.
3.4.16 evaporating unit: Combination of one or more compressors, evaporators, liquid receivers (when required)
and the regularly furnished accessories.
3.4.17 surge drum: Vessels containing refrigerant at low pressure and temperature and connected by liquid feed
and vapour return pipes to (an) evaporator(s).
3.4.18 internal gross volume: Volume calculated from the internal dimensions of a vessel, no account being taken
of the volume of any internal parts.
3.4.19 internal net volume: Volume calculated from the internal dimensions of a vessel, after the subtraction of the
volume of the internal parts.
3.5 Piping, joints and fittings
3.5.1 piping: Pipes or tubes (including any hose, bellows or flexible pipe) for interconnecting the various parts of a
refrigerating system.
3.5.2 joint: Connection made between two parts.
3.5.3 welded joint: Joint obtained by the joining of metal parts in the plastic or molten state.
3.5.4 brazed joint: Joint obtained by the joining of metal parts with alloys which melt at temperatures in general
higher than 450 °C but less than the melting temperatures of the joined parts.
3.5.5 soldered joint: Joint obtained by the joining of metal parts with metallic mixtures or alloys which melt at
temperatures in general from 200 °C to 450 °C.
3.5.6 flanged joint: Joint made by bolting together a pair of flanged ends.
3.5.7 flared joint: Metal-to-metal compression joint in which a conical spread is made on the end of the tube.
3.5.8 screwed joint: Threaded pipe joint not requiring any sealing material e.g. compression joint with deformable
metal ring.
3.5.9 taper pipe thread end: Threaded pipe joint requiring filler materials in order to block the spiral leakage path.
3.5.10 header: Pipe or tube component of a refrigerating system to which several other pipes or tubes are connected.
3.5.11 shut-off device: Device to shut off the flow of the fluid, e. g. refrigerant, brine.
3.5.12 companion [block] valves: Pairs of mating stop valves, isolating sections of systems and arranged so that
these sections may be joined before opening these valves or separated after closing them.
3.5.13 quick closing valve: Shut-off device which closes automatically (e.g. by weight, spring force, quick closing ball)
or has a very small closing angle.
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EN 378-1:2000
3.6 Safety accessories
3.6.1 pressure relief device: Pressure relief valve or bursting disc device designed to relieve excessive pressure
automatically.
3.6.2 pressure relief valve: 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 allowable pressure and
reclosing after the pressure has fallen below the allowable pressure.
3.6.3 bursting disc: Disc or foil which bursts at a predetermined differential pressure.
3.6.4 fusible plug: Device containing a material which melts at a predetermined temperature and thereby relieving
the pressure.
3.6.5 temperature limiting device: Temperature actuated device that is designed to prevent unsafe temperatures.
3.6.6 safety switching device for limiting the pressure: Pressure actuated device that is designed to stop the
operation of the pressure generator.
3.6.6.1 pressure limiter: Device which automatically resets and is called PSH for high pressure protection and PSL
for low pressure protection.
3.6.6.2 pressure cut out: Device which is manually reset without the aid of a tool and is called PZH for high pressure
protection and PZL for low pressure protection.
3.6.6.3 safety pressure cut out: Device which is manually reset only with the aid of a tool and is called PZHH for
high pressure protection and PZLL for low pressure protection.
3.6.7 type tested safety switching device for limiting the pressure: Device which is type tested and designed to
fail safe so that in the event of a defect or malfunction of the device the power supply will be interrupted.
3.6.8 changeover device: Valve controlling two safety devices and so arranged that only one can be made inoperative
at any one time.
3.6.9 refrigerant detector: Sensing device which responds to a pre-set quantity of refrigerant gas in the environment.
3.7 Fluids
3.7.1 refrigerant: Fluid used for heat transfer in a refrigerating system, which absorbs heat at a low temperature and
a low pressure and rejects heat at a higher temperature and a higher pressure usually involving changes of the state
of the fluid.
3.7.2 heat-transfer medium: Fluid (e.g. brine, water, air) for the transmission of heat without any change in its state.
3.7.3 toxicity: Ability of a refrigerant to be harmful or lethal due to acute or chronic exposure by contact, inhalation or
ingestion.
NOTE: Temporary discomfort that does not impair health is not considered to be harmful.
3.7.4 lower flammability limit: Minimum concentration of refrigerant that is capable of propagating a flame within a
homogeneous mixture of refrigerant and air.
3.7.5 fractionation: Change in composition of a refrigerant mixture by e.g. evaporation of the more volatile component(s)
or condensation of the less volatile component(s).
3.7.6 sudden major release: Release and vapourization of the majority of the total refrigerant charge in a short time,
e.g. under 5 min.
3.7.7 short exposure time: Maximum time that humans can be exposed to a major release of refrigerant e.g. no more
than 10 min.
3.7.8 outside air: Air from outside the building.

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EN 378-1:2000
3.7.9 halocarbon and hydrocarbon:
These are:
CFC: Fully-halogenated (no hydrogen remaining) halocarbon containing chlorine, fluorine and carbon;
HCFC: Halocarbon containing hydrogen, chlorine, fluorine and carbon;
HFC: Halocarbon containing only hydrogen, fluorine and carbon;
PFC: Halocarbon containing only fluorine and carbon;
HC: Hydrocarbon containing only hydrogen and carbon.
3.7.10 recover: Removing refrigerant in any condition from a system and store it in an external container.
3.7.11 recycle: Reducing contaminants in used refrigerants by separating oil, removing noncondensibles and using
devices such as filters, driers or filter-driers to reduce moisture, acidity and particulate matter.
3.7.12 reclaim: Processing used refrigerants to new product specifications.
NOTE: Chemical analysis of the refrigerant determines that appropriate specifications are met.
The identification of contaminants and required chemical analysis both are specified in national
and international standards for new product specifications.
3.7.13 disposal: Conveying a product to another party, usually for destruction.
3.8 Miscellaneous
3.8.1 competence: Ability to perform satisfactorily the activities within an occupation.
3.8.2 comfort air conditioning: Method of air treatment designed to satisfy the comfort requirements of the occupants.
3.8.3 self-contained breathing apparatus: Breathing apparatus which has a portable supply of compressed air,
independent of the ambient atmosphere, where exhaust air passes without recirculation to the ambient atmosphere.
3.8.4 vacuum procedure: Procedure to check the gas tightness of an uncharged system by drawing a vacuum.
4 Basic requirements
4.1 General
4.1.1 Refrigerating systems
Refrigerating systems shall be designed, constructed, installed, operated, maintained and disposed of according to
this European Standard.
4.1.2 Refrigerants
Where refrigerants of different groups are used in a refrigerating system the requirements of each individual group
shall apply.
4.1.3 Discharge of refrigerants
Deliberate discharge of environmentally harmful refrigerants shall be avoided.

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EN 378-1:2000
4.1.4 Selection of refrigerants
When selecting a refrigerant the potential influence on global warming and the depletion of ozone in the stratosphere shall be
taken into account.
NOTE 1: A way of assessing global warming is using the concept of total equivalent warming impact
(TEWI) that combines the direct contribution of refrigerant emissions into the atmosphere with the
indirect contribution of the carbon dioxide emissions resulting from the energy required to operate the
refrigerating system over its operational life, also see informative annex B.
NOTE 2: Emitted refrigerant can have global impact due to:
– global warming potential (GWP);
– ozone depletion potential (ODP).
4.2 Design, construction, materials
4.2.1 Components under pressure
All parts of the refrigerant circuit shall be designed and manufactured to remain leakproof and withstand the pressure
which may occur during operation, standstill and transportation taking into account the thermal, physical and chemical
stresses to be expected.
4.2.2 Protection against excessive pressure
In refrigerating systems the pressure during normal operation, standstill and transportation shall not exceed the maximum
allowable pressure of any component. Excessive internal pressure from foreseeable causes shall be prevented or relieved
with minimum practicable risk for persons, property and the environment, and if a pressure relief device is discharging, the
pressure on any component shall not exceed the allowable pressure by more than 10 %.
4.2.3 Indicating and measuring instruments (monitoring)
Refrigerating systems shall be equipped with the indicating and measuring instruments necessary for testing, operating
and servicing as specified in this European standard.
4.2.4 Safeguarding against unauthorized actuation
Control and safety devices which should not be operated by unauthorized persons shall be safeguarded against deliberate
or accidental actuation.
4.2.5 Refrigerant charge
Refrigerating systems shall be designed with due care for their local and global environment in such a way that each
refrigerant charge is kept as small as reasonably practicable in a system which is as tight as reasonably practicable.
4.2.6 Loss of refrigerant
Refrigerating systems shall be so equipped with devices necessary for testing, servicing, maintenance and recovery
of refrigerant and so constructed that even in the case of fire or leakage the loss or refrigerant is minimized.
4.2.7 Liquid slugging in compressors
Refrigerating systems shall be so designed and installed that liquid refrigerant or oil cannot return in excessive quantity
to damage the compressor(s).
4.2.8 Liquid hammer in systems
Piping in refrigerating systems shall be so designed and installed that liquid hammer (hydraulic shock) cannot damage
the system.
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EN 378-1:2000
4.2.9 Moving parts of machinery
Moving parts of machinery shall be guarded according to EN 292-1, EN 292-2 and EN 294.
4.2.10 Noise
Compressors, fans, valves, equipment and ducts of refrigerating systems shall be so designed and constructed that
risks resulting from the emission of airborne noise are reduced to the lowest practical level taking account of technical
progress and the availability of means of reducing noise in particular at source.
4.2.11 Vibration
Compressors, fans, valves, equipment and ducts of refrigerating systems shall be so designed and constructed that
risks resulting from vibration produced by the parts of the system are reduced to the lowest practical level taking account
of technical progress and the availability of means of reducing vibration in particular at source.
4.2.12 Contact with foodstuffs
Parts of refrigerating systems which are in contact or are intended to come into contact with foodstuffs (food or beverages)
shall be designed and constructed from suitable materials, the surfaces of which can be cleaned before each use.
4.2.13 Energy consumption
Refrigerating systems shall be so designed and constructed that under the foreseeable operating conditions the energy
consumption is kept as low as reasonably practicable.
4.3 Installation, commissioning
4.3.1 Installation in relation to occupancies
Refrigerants and refrigerating systems shall be selected, installed and utilized with regard to the categories of
occupancy and operated so that persons are not endangered. If national regulations do not exist, informative
annex C should be used.
4.3.2 Special machinery rooms
In some cases special machinery rooms shall be provided for accommodating parts of refrigerating systems, especially
those of the high pressure side, and the compressors, for reasons of safety.
NOTE: Housings kept tight and vented may also serve as special machinery rooms.
4.3.3 Cold rooms
Cold rooms shall be equipped or so constructed that trapped persons can escape. If national regulations do not exist,
informative annex D should be used.
4.3.4 Discharge of refrigerant
Discharge of refrigerant into the atmosphere shall be minimized. Discharges of refrigerant that cannot be avoided shall
take place so that persons are not endangered.
4.3.5 Protection devices, piping and fittings
Protection devices, piping and fittings shall be protected as far as possible against adverse climatic effects and the
accumulation of dirt or debris.
4.3.6 Electrical installation
The design, construction, installation, testing and use of electrical equipment shall be in accordance with the appropriate
European standards, e.g. EN 60204-1, EN 60335-1, prEN 60335-2-24:1997, EN 60335-2-34, EN 60335-2-40.
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EN 378-1:2000
4.3.7 Flammable refrigerants
Rooms which contain any part of a refrigerating system with a flammable refrigerant, except ammonia or up to a limited
quantity of another flammable refrigerant, shall comply with the requirements for a "potentially explosive atmosphere".
4.3.8 Fire extinguishing equipment
Fire extinguishing equipment shall be readily available and appropriate, in particular, to the size of the refrigerating system,
the refrigerant, the heat-transfer medium, the insulation and the conditions of the site.
4.4 Testing, marking
4.4.1 Tests (in respect to safety and environmental protection)
4.4.1.1 Before putting into service any refrigerating system, all the components or the whole refrigerating system shall
undergo the following tests:
a) strength pressure test;
b) leakage test;
c) functional test of safety devices;
d) test of the complete installation before putting it into operation.
4.4.1.2 Relevant safety accessories shall be tested regularly.
4.4.1.3 The results of the tests shall be recorded.
4.4.2 Marking
4.4.2.1 Every refrigerating system and its main components shall be identifiable by marking. This marking shall always
be visible.
4.4.2.2 Shut-off devices and main control devices shall be suitably marked if it is not obvious what they control.
4.5 Operation, maintenance, repair, personal protective equipment
4.5.1 Operational instructions
4.5.1.1 For refrigerating systems operational instructions shall be prepared giving directions for the operation and
servicing of the system, including precautions to be observed in case of breakdown or leakage.
4.5.1.2 The manufacturer or installer shall supply instruction manuals or leaflets and shall also provide safety
instructions written in one of the languages of the country in which the refrigerating system is to be used.
For refrigerating systems which are used for transport purposes in several countries, such instructions shall be in an
appropriate official language and may be repeated in one or more other languages.
4.5.2 Maintenance, repair
4.5.2.1 Refrigerating systems shall be maintained and repaired only by competent persons (see 4.6).
4.5.2.2 Personnel in charge shall have knowledge and experience of the mode of functioning, use and day to day
monitoring of the whole refrigerating system.
4.5.3 Personal protective equipment
Personal protective equipment appropriate to the quantity and type of refrigerant shall be readily available.
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EN 378-1:2000
4.6 Competence
4.6.1 Training and knowledge
Persons, who are responsible for design, construction, installation, inspection, testing, operation, maintenance, repair,
disposal and assessment of refrigerating systems and their parts shall have the necessary training and knowledge for
their task to achieve competence.
4.6.2 Competence in different tasks
Competence in each task shall be required for health, safety, environmental protection and energy conservation purposes.
4.7 Recovery, reuse, disposal
All parts of refrigerating systems, e.g. refrigerant, oil, heat-transfer medium, filter, drier, insulating material, shall be
recovered, reused and/or disposed of properly in connection with maintenance, repair and scrapping.
5 Classification
5.1 General
5.1.1 Refrigerating systems
Refrigerating systems are classified as shown in table 1 according to the method of extracting heat from (cooling) or adding
heat to (heating) the atmosphere or substance to be treated.
5.1.2 Occupancies
Occupancies are classified in respect to the safety of the persons, who may be directly affected in case of abnormal
operation of the refrigerating system.
5.1.3 Refrigerants
Refrigerants are classified into groups according to their influence on health and safety.
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EN378-1:2000
Table 1: Types of cooling and heating systems
Subclause Denomi- Cooling systems Heating systems

nation
Notes Substance Refrigerating Heat pump Substance Notes
to be cooled system to be heated
5.2.1 Direct Evaporator in direct Condenser in direct
System communication with the communication with
substance to be cooled. the substance to be
heated.
Evaporator Condensor
5.2.2.2 Indirect Evaporator cools a heat- Condenser heats a

Vented transfer medium which is heat-transfer medium
Open brought into direct which is brought into
System communication with the direct communication
substance to be cooled. with the substance to
Evaporator Condensor be heated.
5.2.2.3 Indirect Similar to 5.2.2.2 but with vented vented Similar to 5.2.2.2 but
Vented open or vented tank. with open or vented
Open tank.
System
5.2.2.4 Indirect Evaporator cools a Evaporator Condensor Condenser heats a

Closed heat-transfer medium heat-transfer medium
System which passes through which passes through
a closed circuit in direct a closed circuit in
communication with the direct communication
substance to be cooled. with the substance to
be heated.
Liquid expansion
Liquid expansion
(continued)
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EN378-1:2000
Table 1: (concluded)
Subclause Denomi- Cooling systems Heating systems

nation
Notes Substance Refrigerating Heat pump Substance Notes
to be cooled system to be heated
5.2.2.5 Indirect Similar to 5.2.2.4 but Similar to 5.2.2.4 but
Vented with open or vented with open or vented
Closed tank. tank.
System
5.2.2.6 Double A combination of A combination of

Indirect 5.2.2.2 and 5.2.2.4 5.2.2.2 and 5.2.2.4
System where cooled heat- where heated heat-
transfer medium transfer medium
passes through passes through
second heat second heat
exchanger. exchanger.
Pipework containing refrigerant
Pipework containing heat-transfer medium

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EN378-1:2000
5.2 Classification of refrigerating systems
5.2.1 Direct system
The evaporator or condenser of the refrigerating system is in direct communication with the substance to be cooled
or heated.
5.2.2 Indirect systems
5.2.2.1 General
The evaporator or condenser of the refrigerating system, located externally to the space where the heat is extracted
from or delivered to the substance to be treated, cools or heats a heat-transfer medium which is circulated to cool or
heat the substance.
5.2.2.2 Indirect open system
The evaporator cools or the condenser heats the heat-transfer medium which is brought into direct communication
with the substance to be treated e.g. by sprays or similar means.
5.2.2.3 Indirect vented open system
This system is similar to that of 5.2.2.2 except that the evaporator or condenser is placed in an open or vented tank.
5.2.2.4 Indirect closed system
The evaporator cools or the condenser heats the heat-transfer medium which passes through a closed circuit in
direct communication with the substance to be treated.
5.2.2.5 Indirect vented closed system
This system is similar to that of 5.2.2.4 except that the evaporator or condenser is placed in an open or vented tank.
5.2.2.6 Double indirect system
This system is similar to that of 5.2.2.2 except that the heat-transfer medium passes through a second heat exchanger
located externally to the space as described in 5.2.2.4 and cools or heats a second heat-transfer medium fluid which is
brought into direct communication with the substance to be treated e.g. by sprays or similar means.
5.3 Classification of occupancies
5.3.1 General
Considerations of safety in refrigerating systems take into account the site, the number of people occupying the site and
the categories of occupancy.
The occupancies are classified into three categories, given in table 2, which refer to all those areas where an installation
would affect safety.
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EN 378-1:2000
Table 2: Categories of occupancy
1
Categories General characteristics Examples )
A Rooms, parts of buildings, building where Hospitals, courts or prisons, theatres,

supermarkets, schools, lecture halls, public
– people may sleep; transport termini, hotels, dwellings, restaurants.
– people are restricted in their movement;
– an uncontrolled number of people are

present or to which any person has access
without being personally acquainted with the
necessary safety precautions.
B Rooms, parts of buildings, buildings where only Business or professional offices, laboratories,
a limited number of people may be assembled, places for general manufacturing and where
some being necessarily acquainted with the people work.
general safety precautions of the establishment.
C Rooms, parts of buildings, buildings where only Manufacturing facilities, e.g. for chemicals, food,
authorized persons have access, who are beverage, ice, ice-cream, refineries, cold stores,
acquainted with general and special safety dairies, abattoirs, non-public areas in
precautions of the establishment and where supermarkets.
manufacturing, processing or storage of material
or products take place.
1)
The list of examples is not exhaustive.
5.3.2 More than one category of occupancy
Where there is the possibility of more than one category of occupancy, the more stringent requirements apply. If
occupancies are isolated, e.g. by sealed partitions, floors and ceilings, in which case the requirements of the individual
category of occupancy apply.
NOTE: Attention is drawn to the safety of adjacent premises and occupants in areas adjacent to a refrigerating
system. Refrigerants heavier than air can cause oxygen deficient pockets at low level (see molar mass in the
informative annex E).
5.4 Classification of refrigerants
5.4.1 General
Refrigerants are classified into groups according to their influence on health and safety.
NOTE: The classification of some refrigerants is listed in the informative annex E. The classification of
refrigerants as defined in Directive 97/23/EC is listed in the European standard on "Pressure equipment
for refrigerating systems and heat pumps – Part 1: Vessels – General requirements" which is in preparation,
see informative annex G.
5.4.2 Health and safety classification
Refrigerants are classified according to their flammability and toxicity.

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EN 378-1:2000
5.4.2.1 Flammability classification
Refrigerants shall be assigned to one of the three groups 1, 2 and 3 based on the lower flammability limit at atmospheric
pressure and room temperature:
– group 1: Refrigerants which are not flammable in vapour form at any concentration in air;
– group 2: Refrigerants whose lower flammability limit is equal to or greater than 3,5 % V/V when they form a mixture
with air;
– group 3: Refrigerants whose lower flammability limit is less than 3,5 % V/V when they form a mixture with air.
NOTE: The lower flammability limits are determined in accordance with an appropriate standard e.g.
ANSI/ASTM E 681.
5.4.2.2 Toxicity classification
Refrigerants shall be assigned to one of the two groups A and B based on toxicity:
– group A: Refrigerants with a time weighted average concentration not having an adverse effect on nearly all workers
who may be exposed to it day after day for a normal 8-hour workday and a 40-hour workweek whose value is equal
3
to or above 400 ml/m (400 ppm (V/V));
– group B: Refrigerants with a time weighted average concentration not having an adverse effect on nearly all workers
who may be exposed to it day after day for a normal 8-hour workday and a 40-hour workweek whose value is below
3
400 ml/m (400 ppm (V/V)).
NOTE: Toxic decomposition products may result from contact with flames or hot surfaces under certain
conditions. Major decomposition products of group L1 (A1) refrigerants, with the exception of carbon dioxide,
are hydrochloric acid and hydrofluoric acid. Although toxic, they provide an automatic and definite warning by
their exceedingly irritant smell even at low concentrations.
5.4.2.3 Safety groups
Refrigerants are assigned to safety groups as shown in table 3.
Table 3: Safety groups as determined by flammability and toxicity
Safety group
Higher A3 B3
flammability
Lower A2 B2
flammability
flammability
Increasing
No flame A1 B1
propagation
Lower Higher
toxicity toxicity
→
Increasing toxicity
For the purpose of this standard a simplified grouping is made as follows:

L1 = A1;
L2 = A2, B1, B2;
L3 = A3, B3.
The refrigerant shall be classified in that group requiring the more stringent precautions where there is doubt under
which group a refrigerant is to be classified.
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EN 378-1:2000
5.4.2.4 Health and safety classification of refrigerant mixtures (blends)
Refrigerant mixtures, whose flammability and/or toxicity characteristics may change as the composition changes
during fractionation, shall be assigned a dual safety group classification separated by a slash (/). The first classification
listed shall be the classification of the formulated composition of the mixture. The second classification listed shall be
the classification of the mixture composition at the "worst case of fractionation". Each characteristic shall be considered
independently.
Each of the two classifications shall be determined according to the same criteria as a single-component refrigerant.
For toxicity, "worst case of fractionation" shall be defined as the composition that results in the highest concentration of
the component(s) in the vapour or liquid phase. The toxicity of a specific mixture composition shall be determined on the
basis of the single components.
NOTE 1: Since fractionation can occur as the result of a refrigerating system leak, the composition of the
mixture remaining in the refrigerating system and the composition of the mixture leaking from the refrigerating
system should be considered when determining the "worst case of fractionation". The "worst case of
fractionation" can be either the formulated composition or a composition that occurs during fractionation.
NOTE 2: The "worst case of fractionation" for toxicity might not be the same as the "worst case of fractionation"
for flammability.
5.4.2.5 Practical limits
Practical limits shall be as required by national regulations. If national regulations do not exist, informative annex E
should be used.
6 Selection of refrigerants
6.1 Refrigerants shall be selected with due regard to their potential influence on the global environment as well as
their possible effects on the local environment and their suitability as refrigerants for the particular system, see
informative annex F.
The influence of a refrigerant on the global environment is a function of the application and the leak tightness of the
system, the type of system, the refrigerant charge, the handling of the refrigerant and the potential of the refrigerant to
create or add to hazards to the environment.
6.2 Refrigerants shall be selected with as low an ODP as is reasonably practicable. Refrigerants shall be selected such
that their possible impact on health and safety (toxicity/flammability) are minimized.
NOTE: For refrigerants ODP values are determined according to their global environmental influence in
respect to their ozone depletion potential which are indicated in the informative annex E. The ODP values
are relative to R11.
6.3 Refrigerants shall be selected with as low a GWP as is reasonably practicable whilst at the same time giving a good
energy efficiency.
NOTE: For refrigerants GWP values are determined according to their global environmental influence in
respect to their global warming potential which are indicated in the informative annex E. The GWP values
are relative to carbon dioxide (CO2) and to a time horizon of 100 years.
6.4 Refrigerants shall be selected which give good energy efficiency for the system.
6.5 If it is necessary to use refrigerants with an ODP or a GWP greater than zero (0), the charge shall be minimized.
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EN 378-1:2000
6.6 If global warming is the only environmental effect, energy efficiency shall be given preference over low charge, if
both requirements cannot be fulfilled simultaneously.
NOTE 1: Be aware that low charges could affect the energy efficiency thus contributing indirectly to the global
warming.
NOTE 2: Indirect systems reduce the charge of refrigerants and should provide a more leakresistent system,
however, the energy efficiency may be lower than with direct systems.
6.7 The system shall be designed and installed to remain leakproof (as tight as possible).
Particular attention shall be paid to the following factors affecting the tightness of the system:
– type of compressor;
– type of joints;
– type of valves.
NOTE 1: Where it is technically possible a hermetic compressor should be chosen.
NOTE 2: Welding and brazing are preferred to flanged, screwed or other similar joints.
NOTE 3: Capped valves are preferred.
NOTE 4: Factory-made systems are usually more tight than site erected systems.
6.8 Refrigerants shall be selected with due regard to the ease of their subsequent reuse or disposal.
7 Selection of cooling or heating systems
7.1 General
If a cooling or heating system is to be installed, the refrigerant and the type of refrigerating system shall be selected
and applied with regard to the category of occupancy specified in table 2.
When refrigerating systems are to be installed in locations adjacent to occupancies categorised in table 2 due regard
shall also be paid to the safety of the adjacent locations and their occupants.
For each category of occupancy, certain systems and certain locations of refrigerating equipment and piping in
combination with certain refrigerants shall be either prohibited or subjected to restriction or permitted without
restriction of refrigerant charge.
7.2 Location of cooling or heating systems
The location of cooling or heating systems shall be as required by national regulations. If national regulations do not
exist, informative annex C should be used.
7.3 Skating rinks
7.3.1 General
Halocarbon refrigerants with an ODP greater than 0 shall not be used for direct systems in skating rinks, see
informative annex E.
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EN 378-1:2000
7.3.2 Indoor skating rinks
Indoor skating rinks shall comply with 5.3.1 where an adequate, reinforced, tightly sealed concrete floor separates
the refrigerating system from the public area. If direct systems with group L2 refrigerant are used, refrigerant receivers
shall be provided which can hold the total refrigerant charge. In all cases there shall be adequate means of escape in
an emergency.
7.3.3 Outdoor skating rinks and installations for similar sporting activities
Outdoor skating rinks shall comply with 5.3.2. All refrigerating equipment, piping and fittings shall be fully protected
against unauthorized interference and so arranged that they are accessible for inspection. There shall be adequate
means of escape in an emergency. Refrigerant receivers shall be provided as in 7.3.2.
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EN 378-1:2000
Annex A
(informative)
Equivalent terms in English, French and German
Index Répertoire Verzeichnis Clause

of the terms des termes defines der in der Norm number
defined in the standard dans la norme definierten Benennungen
absorption or adsorption système à absorption ou à Absorptions- oder 3.1.5

system adsorption Adsorptionsanlage
accessible hermetic [semi- motocompresseur hermétique Halbhermetischer 3.4.4.2

hermetic] motor compressor accessible Motorverdichter
air lock sas Luftschleuse 3.2.3
block [companion] valves robinets-vannes [ou contre- Trenn-[Verbindungs-]arma- 3.5.12

robinets] de sectionnement turen
brazed joint joint brasé fort Hartlötverbindung 3.5.4
bursting disc disque de rupture Berstscheibe 3.6.3
canned rotor motorcompressor motocompresseur à rotor Spaltrohr-Motorverdichter 3.4.4.3

chemisé
changeover device inverseur Wechselventil 3.6.8
closed system système fermé Geschlossene Anlage 3.1.7
coil serpentin Rohrschlange 3.4.12
cold room enceinte réfrigérée Kühlraum 3.2.8
comfort air conditioning conditionnement de l'air de Behaglichkeitsluft- 3.8.2

confort konditionierung
companion [block] valves contre-robinets [ou robinets- Verbindungs-[Trenn-]armatur 3.5.12

vannes] de sectionnement
competence compétence Sachkunde 3.8.1
compressor compresseur Verdichter 3.4.3
compressor unit groupe compresseur Verdichtersatz 3.4.14
condenser condenseur Verflüssiger 3.4.9
condensing unit groupe de condensation Verflüssigungssatz 3.4.15
design pressure pression de conception Konstruktionsdruck 3.3.3
direct communication communication directe Direkte Verbindung 3.2.9
disposal mise au rebut Entsorgung 3.7.13
evaporating unit groupe évaporateur Verdampfersatz 3.4.16
evaporator évaporateur Verdampfer 3.4.11
exit sortie Ausgang 3.2.6
exit passageway passage de sortie Ausgangskorridor 3.2.7
flanged joint joint à bride Flanschverbindung 3.5.6
flared joint joint évasé Bördelverbindung 3.5.7
fractionation fractionnement Fraktionierung 3.7.5

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EN 378-1:2000

fusible plug bouchon fusible Schmelzpropfen 3.6.4
gauge pressure pression effective Überdruck 3.3.1
grid batterie Rohrregister 3.4.13
hallway corridor Durchgang 3.2.5
halocarbon/hydrocarbon halocarbure/hydrocarbure Halogenkohlenwasserstoff/ 3.7.9

Kohlenwasserstoff
header collecteur Sammel- und Verteilstück 3.5.10
heat pump [refrigerating pompe à chaleur [système de Wärmepumpe [Kälteanlage] 3.1.1

system] réfrigération]
heat-transfer medium fluide caloporteur Wärmeträger 3.7.2
hermetic motorcompressor motocompresseur hermétique Hermetischer Motorverdichter 3.4.4.1
high pressure side côté haute pression Hochdruckseite 3.1.9
human occupied space espace occupé par des Personen-Aufenthaltsbereich 3.2.2

personnes
hydrocarbon/halocarbon hydrocarbure/halocarbure Kohlenwasserstoff/Halogen- 3.7.9

kohlenwasserstoff
internal gross volume volume interne brut Bruttoinhalt 3.4.18
internal net volume volume interne net Nettoinhalt 3.4.19
joint joint Verbindung 3.5.2
leakage test pressure pression de l'essai de fuite Dichtheits-Prüfdruck 3.3.5
limited charge system système à charge limitée Anlage mit begrenzter 3.1.4
Füllmenge
liquid receiver réservoir de liquide Flüssigkeitssammler 3.4.10
lobby hall d'entrée Vorhalle 3.2.4
low pressure side côté basse pression Niederdruckseite 3.1.10
lower flammability limit limite inférieure d'inflammabilité Untere Explosionsgrenze 3.7.4
maximun allowable pressure pression maximale admissible Maximal zulässiger Druck 3.3.2
maximum declared pressure pression maximale déclarée Höchster angegebener Druck 3.3.6
mobile system système mobile Ortsveränderliche Anlage; 3.1.11

Kälteanlage
motorcompressor motocompresseur Motorverdichter 3.4.4
non-positive displacement compresseur non volumétrique Strömungsverdichter 3.4.7

compressor
open air air libre Im Freien 3.2.10
open compressor compresseur ouvert Offener Verdichter 3.4.5
outside air air extérieur Außenluft 3.7.8
piping tuyauterie Rohrleitung 3.5.1

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EN 378-1:2000

positive displacement compresseur volumétrique Verdrängerverdichter 3.4.6

compressor
pressure cut out pressostat à réenclenchement Druckbegrenzer 3.6.6.2

manuel sans outil
pressure limiter limiteur de pression Druckwächter 3.6.6.1
pressure relief device dispositif de surpression Druckentlastungseinrichtung 3.6.1
pressure relief valve soupape de sécurité Druckentlastungsventil 3.6.2
pressure vessel réservoir à pression Druckbehälter 3.4.8
quick closing valve robinet à fermeture rapide Schnellschlußventil 3.5.13
reclaim régénération Wiederaufbereitung 3.7.12
recover récupération Rückgewinnung 3.7.10
recycle recyclage Recycling 3.7.11
refrigerant fluide frigorigène Kältemittel 3.7.1
refrigerant detector détecteur de fluide frigorigène Kältemitteldetektor 3.6.9
refrigerating equipment composants frigorifiques Kältetechnische Komponenten 3.4.2
refrigerating installation installation de réfrigération Kältetechnische Einrichtung 3.4.1
refrigerating system [heat système de réfrigération Kälteanlage [Wärmepumpe] 3.1.1

pump] [pompe à chaleur]
safety pressure cut out pressostat de sécurité Sicherheitsdruckbegrenzer 3.6.6.3
safety switching device for dispositif de sécurité de Sicherheitsschalteinrichtung zur 3.6.6
limiting the pressure limitation de la pression Druckbegrenzung
screwed joint joint vissé Schraubverbindung 3.5.8
sealed system système scellé Dauerhaft geschlossene Anlage 3.1.8
secondary cooling or heating système secondaire de Indirektes Kühl- oder 3.1.6

system refroidissement ou de Heizsystem
chauffage
self-contained breathing appareil respiratoire Unabhängiges Atemschutz- 3.8.3

apparatus gerät (Isoliergerät)
self-contained system système autonome Kältesatz 3.1.2
semihermetic [accessible motocompresseur hermétique Halbhermetischer 3.4.4.2

hermetic] motorcompressor accessible Motorverdichter
short exposure time temps d'exposition maximal Kurzzeitexposition 3.7.7
shut-off device dispositif d'arrêt Absperreinrichtung 3.5.11
soldered joint joint brasé tendre Weichlötverbindung 3.5.5
special machinery room salle des machines spéciale Besonderer Maschinenraum 3.2.1
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EN 378-1:2000

strength test pressure pression de l'essai de Festigkeits-Prüfdruck 3.3.4

résistance
sudden major release émission majeure Plötzliche größere 3.7.6

Freisetzung
soudaine
surge drum réservoir-tampon Abscheider 3.4.17
taper pipe thread end joint fileté conique Rohrende mit konischem 3.5.9
Gewinde
temperature limiting device dispositif de limitation de la Temperaturbegrenzungsein 3.6.5

température richtung
toxicity toxicité Giftigkeit 3.7.3
type tested safety switching dispositif de sécurité de Baumustergeprüfte 3.6.7

device for limiting the limitation de pression ayant
pressure subi un essai de type Sicherheitsgehalteinrichtung
zur Druckbegrenzung
ultimate strength of a system résistance ultime d'un Bruchfestigkeit einer Anlage 3.3.7
système
unit system système monobloc Betriebsfertiger Kältesatz 3.1.3
vacuum procedure tirage au vide Vakuumverfahren 3.8.4
welded joint joint soudé Schweißverbindung 3.5.3

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EN 378-1:2000
Annex B
(informative)
Total equivalent warming impact (TEWI)
The total equivalent warming impact (TEWI) is a way of assessing global warming by combining the direct contribution
of refrigerant emissions into the atmosphere with the indireat contribution of the carbon dioxide emissions resulting from
the energy required to operate the refrigerating system over its operational life.
TEWI is designed to calculate the total global warming contribution of the refrigeration process in use. It measures both
the direct global warming effect of the refrigerant, if emitted, and the indirect contribution of the energy required to power
the unit over its normal operational life. It is only valid for comparing alternative systems or refrigerant options for one
application in one location.
For a given system TEWI includes:
– the direct global warming effect under certain conditions of refrigerant loss;
– the direct global warming effect of greenhouse gases emitted from insulation or other components, if applicable;
– the indirect global warming effect from the CO2 emitted during generation of the power to run the system.
Figure B.1: Refrigerating system
It is possible to identify the most effective means to reduce the actual global warming impact of a refrigerating system
by using TEWI. The main options are:
– design/selection of the most suitable refrigerating system – and refrigerant – to meet the demand of a specific
cooling application;
– optimisation of the system for best energy efficiency (the best combination and arrangement of components and
system use to reduce energy consumption);
– proper maintenance to sustain optimum energy performance and to avoid refrigerant leaks (e.g. all systems will
be further improved with correct maintenance and operation);
– recovery and recyling/reclaim of used refrigerant;
– recovery and recyling/reclaim of used insulation.
NOTE: Energy efficiency is therefore a far more significant target for reducing global warming from refrigeration.
In many cases, a very efficient refrigerating system with a refrigerant which has a global warming potential may
be better for the environment than an inefficient refrigerating system with a low GWP-refrigerant which increases
energy consumption. All the more so if emissions are minimised: no leaks mean no direct global warming.
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EN 378-1:2000
TEWI is calculated relative to a particular refrigerating system and not only to the refrigerant itself. It varies from one system
to another and depends on assumptions made relative to important factors like operating time, service life, conversion factor
and efficiency. For a given system or application, the most effective use of TEWI is made by determining the relative
importance of the direct and indirect effects.
For instance, where the refrigerating system is only an element of a larger system, such as in a secondary circuit/system
(e.g. central station air conditioning) then the total energy consumption in use (including the standing and distribution losses
of the air conditioning system) has to be taken into account in arriving at a satisfactory comparison of the total equivalent
warming impact.
The TEWI factor can be calculated by the following formula where the various areas of impact are correspondingly
separated.
TEWI = [GWP×L×n]+[GWP×m(1-αrecovery)]+[n×Eannual×β]
GWP×L×n = impact of leakage losses direct GWP
GWP×m(1-αrecovery) = impact of recovery losses }

n×Eannual×β = impact of energy consumption } indirect GWP
where:
TEWI is the total equivalent warming impact, in kilogrammes of CO2;
GWP is the global warming potential, CO2-related;
is the leakage, in kilogrammes per year;
n is the system operating time, in years;
m is the refrigerant charge, in kilogrammes;
αrecovery is the recovery/recycling factor, 0 to 1;
N x Eannual is the energy consumption, in kilowatt-hour per year;
β is the CO2-emission, in kilogrammes per kilowatt-hour.
NOTE 1: This global warming potential is rated in comparison to CO2 and it is based on an agreed time horizon
of 100 years. GWP-values for different refrigerants, see informative annex E.
NOTE 2: The conversion factor β gives the quantity of CO2 produced by the generation of 1 kWh.
When greenhouse gases may be emitted by insulation or other components the global warming potential of such gases is to
be added:
GWPi ×mi(1 – αi)
where
GWPi is the global warming potential of gas in the insulation, CO2-related;
mi is the gas charge in the insulation system, in kilogrammes;
αi is the rate of gas recovered from the insulation at the end of life, from 0 to 1;
Page 30
EN 378-1:2000
Important
When calculating TEWI it is very important to update GWP CO2-related and CO2-emission per kilowatt – hour from the
latest figures.
Many of the assumptions and factors in this calculation method are usually specific to an application in a particular
location.
Comparisons (of results from) between different applications or different locations are therefore unlikely to have
much validity.
This calculation is of particular importance at the design stage or when a retrofit decision is to be made.
EXAMPLE:
Comparison of two different refrigerant charges in a medium temperature system with HR 134-a having a capacity
of 13,5 kW and operating with an evaporating temperature of -10 °C and a condensing temperature of +40 °C. The
leakage is assumed to be 8 % of the charge per year. The other characteristics are as follows:
m 10 kg or 25kg αrecovery 0,75
L 0,8 kg/year or 2,0 kg/year n 15 years
Eannual 5 kW×5 000 h/year GWP] 300 (CO2 = 1)

[time horizon 100 years
β 0,6 kg CO2/kWh
Figure B.2: Comparison of two TEWI figures (Example)

Page 31
EN 378-1:2000
Annex C
(informative)
Location of refrigerating systems
C.1 General
There are three types of location for refrigerating systems. The appropriate location shall be selected in accordance
with this European Standard which takes account of possible hazards.
The three types of location are:
a) a refrigerating system located in a human occupied space which is not a special machinery room;
b) a refrigerating system with the high pressure side (except air cooled condensers) located in a special
machinery room (see EN 378-3) or in the open air;
c) a refrigerating system with all refrigerant containing parts located in a special machinery room (see EN 378-3)
or in the open air.
NOTE 1: Some heat pumps/air conditioners operate for either heating and cooling by reversing the flow from
the compressor to the heat exchangers by means of a special reversing valve. In these cases the high and low
pressure sides of the system can change depending on the mode of the unit.
Refrigerating systems or parts of systems shall not be installed in or on stairways, landings, entrances or exits used by
the public, if free passage is thereby limited.
NOTE 2: Table C.1 shows whether combinations are permitted or not. Combinations which are permitted but
subject to restrictions are indicated by the number(s) of the clause(s) or subclause(s) specifying the restriction
of refrigerant charge.
The maximum charge of refrigerant in the refrigerating system shall comply with the requirements in C.2
(see also table C.1).
C.2 Maximum charge of refrigerant
C.2.1 Group L1 refrigerants
C.2.1.1 General
The practical limits for group L1 refrigerants (see informative annex E) are based on the effect of a sudden major release
of refrigerant with short exposure time. They do not refer to safe limits for regular day to day exposure. Such limits are
given in tables of occupational exposure limits.
C.2.1.2 Occupancy category A
C.2.1.2.1 A refrigerating system located in a human occupied space which is not a special machinery room shall meet
the following requirements:
a) The refrigerant charge, in kilogrammes, contained in a refrigerating system shall not exceed the product of:
1) the practical limit for the refrigerant, in kilogrammes per cubic metre, (see informative annex E); and
2) the volume, in cubic metres, of the smallest human occupied space in which refrigerant containing equipment
is located;
NOTE 1: The total volume of all the rooms cooled or heated by air from one system is used as the volume for
calculation, if the air supply to each room cannot be restricted below 25 % of its full supply.
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EN 378-1:2000
NOTE 2: If the space has a mechanical ventilation system which will be operating during the occupation of the
space, the effect of the air change may be considered in calculating the volume.
NOTE 3: Other methods of ensuring safety in the event of a sudden major release of refrigerant are permitted.
Such methods should ensure that the concentrations will not rise above the practical limits given in the informative
annex E or to give adequate warning to occupant(s) in the space of such a rise so that they may avoid excess
exposure time. The alternative method should demonstrate a level of safety at least equivalent to the method
described in a).
b) occupancies where people may be restricted in their movement and in which open flames or similar hot surfaces are
present shall always be sufficiently vented because of possible danger from decomposition products. If this is not done,
direct and indirect open systems shall not be used.
C.2.1.2.2 A refrigerating system with the high pressure side (except air cooled condensers) located in a special machinery
room or in the open air shall meet the following requirements:
a) for direct and indirect open systems (see table 1) the restriction of refrigerant charge of C.2.1.2.1 shall apply;
b) for indirect vented open, indirect closed, indirect vented closed and double indirect systems (see table 1) there is no
C.2.1.2.3 A refrigerating system with all refrigerant containing parts located in a special machinery room or in the open air
has no restriction of refrigerant charge.
C.2.1.3 Occupancy category B
C.2.1.3.1 A refrigerating system located in a human occupied space which is not a special machinery room has no
restriction of refrigerant charge except that the use of such systems below ground or on upper floors without adequate
emergency exits shall meet the same restriction of refrigerant charge as for occupancy category A (see C.2.1.2.1).
room or in the open air or with all refrigerant containing parts located in a special machinery room or in the open air has no
C.2.1.4 Occupancy category C
C.2.1.4.1 A refrigerating system located in a human occupied space which is not a special machinery room has no
restriction of refrigerant charge except that, where direct or indirect open systems are used below ground or on upper floors
without adequate emergency exits, taking into account the number of persons normally present, the refrigerating system
shall meet the same restriction of refrigerant charge as for occupancy category A (see C.2.1.2.1).
room or in the open air or with all refrigerant containing parts located in a special machinery room or in the open air has no
C.2.2.1 General
In general, group L2 refrigerants shall not be permitted in direct, indirect open or indirect vented open systems for air
conditioning or heating for human comfort, if people are restricted in their movement.
C.2.2.2.1 A refrigerating system located in a human occupied space which is not a special machinery room or with the high
pressure side (except air cooled condensers) located in a special machinery room or in the open air shall be a sealed
system and for compression systems the refrigerant charge shall not exceed the amount derived from the practical limits
given in the informative annex E and the volume of the space. For sealed sorption systems the refrigerant charge shall not
exceed 2,5 kg.
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EN 378-1:2000
shall meet the following requirements:
a) for direct, indirect open and indirect vented open systems the refrigerant charge of a refrigerating system shall not
exceed 2,5 kg;
b) for indirect closed, indirect vented closed and double indirect systems which do not have a direct communication to rooms
of category A and which have an exit into the open air there is no restriction of the refrigerant charge.
C.2.2.3.1 For a refrigerating system located in a human occupied space which is not a special machinery room the
refrigerant charge shall not exceed 10,0 kg.
a) for direct, indirect open and indirect vented open systems the refrigerant charge shall not exceed 25 kg;
b) for indirect closed, indirect vented closed and double indirect systems there is no restriction of refrigerant charge.
C.2.2.3.3 For a refrigerating system with all refrigerant containing parts located in a special machinery room or in the
open air there is no restriction of refrigerant charge provided the special machinery room has no direct communication
to a human occupied space.
C.2.2.4.1 A refrigerating system located in a human occupied space which is not a special machinery room shall meet the
following requirements:
a) where the density of personnel is lower than 1 person per 10 m2 and provided there are a sufficient number of
clearly indicated emergency exits for the number of persons normally present the refrigerant charge shall not
exceed 50 kg;
b) where the density of personnel is not restricted apart from the restrictions imposed by building regulations the
refrigerant charge shall not exceed 10,0 kg.
a) for direct, indirect open and indirect vented open systems there is no restriction of refrigerant charge provided the
2
refrigerating system does not extend to rooms where the density of personnel is greater than 1 person per 10 m and
there are clearly indicated emergency exits;
b) for indirect closed, indirect vented closed and double indirect systems there is no restriction of refrigerant charge.
C.2.2.4.3 For a refrigerating system with all refrigerant containing parts located in a special machinery room or in the open
air there is no restriction of refrigerant charge.
C.2.3.1 General
In general, group L3 refrigerants are highly flammable and explosive. Direct, indirect open and indirect vented open systems
shall not be permitted for air conditioning and heating for human comfort.
C.2.3.2.1 A refrigerating system not located in a special machinery room or in the open air shall be sealed system with a
refrigerant charge calculated from the practical limits given in the informative annex E up to a maximum of 1,5 kg provided
there are no sources of ignition associated with the refrigerating system.
Page 34
EN 378-1:2000
a) above ground the refrigerant charge shall be calculated from the practical limits given in the informative annex E
up to a maximum of 5,0 kg;
b) below ground the refrigerant charge shall be calculated from the practical limits given in the informative annex E
up to a maximum of 1,0 kg.
C.2.3.3.1 A refrigerating system located in a human occupied space which is not a special machinery room or with the
high pressure side (except air cooled condensers) located in a special machinery room or in the open air shall meet the
a) above ground the refrigerant charge shall be calculated from the practical limits given in the informative annex E up
to a maximum of 2,5 kg;
b) below ground the refrigerant charge shall be calculated from the practical limits given in the informative annex E up
to a maximum of 1,0 kg.
C.2.3.3.2 A refrigerating system with all refrigerant containing parts located in a special machinery room shall meet the
a) above ground the refrigerant charge shall not exceed 10,0 kg;
b) below ground the refrigerant charge shall not exceed 1,0 kg.
C.2.3.4.1 A refrigerating system located in a human occupied space which is not a special machinery room shall meet the
a) above ground the refrigerant charge shall not exceed 10,0 kg;
a) above ground the refrigerant charge shall not exceed 25 kg;
a) above ground there is no restriction of refrigerant charge;
Page 35
EN378-1:2000
Table C.1: Allowable refrigerant charge of a refrigerating system according to occupancy categories (synoptic chart of C.2)
Occupancy category A
Refrigerant Group L1 (C.2.1) L2 (C.2.2) L3 (C 2.3)
Coling or heating Direct or indirect Other indirect Direct, indirect Other indirect Direct, indirect Other indirect
systems open open, indirect closed open, indirect closed
Location vented open vented open
of refrigerating
equipment
Not in a special machinery room If people are restricted Not for air conditioning Not for air conditioning for
C.1a) in their movement, for human comfort, if human comfort
open flames or similar people are restricted in C.2.3.1
hot surfaces are to be their movement
avoided in rooms without C.2.2.1
proper steady
ventilation
C.2.1.2.1b)
Refrigerant charge not exceed the product of Only sealed systems. Only sealed systems calculated from practical
practical limit "PL" of the informative annex E Sorption systems up to 2,5 kg limits up to 1,5 kg provided there are no sources
and the volume "V" of the smallest human occupied Otherwise calculated from practical limits of ignition.
space in which refrigerant containing equipment C.2.2.2.1 C.2.3.2.1
is located.
PL (kg/m3)×V (m3)
C 2.1.2.1a)
Compressor, accumulator in a No restrictions of charge
special machinery room or in the C.2.1.2.2
open air
C.1b)
All refrigerant containing parts in No restrictions of charge C.2.1.2.3 Not for air conditioning With exit to the open Not for air conditioning for
a special machinery room or in for human comfort, if air no restrictions of human comfort
the open air people are restricted in charge C.2.3.1
C.1c) their movement C.2.2.2.2b)
C.2.2.1
Otherwise up to
2,5 kg
C.2.2.2.2a)
Calculated from practical limits
Below ground up to 1,0 kg
C.2.3.2.2b)
Otherwise up to 5,0 kg
C.2.3.2.2a)
(continued)
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EN 378-1:2000
Table C.1 (continued)

Occupancy category B
Refrigerant Group L1 (C.2.1) L2 (C.2.2) L3 (C.2.3)
Cooling or heating Direct or indirect Other indirect Direct, indirect Other indirect Direct, indirect Other indirect
of refrigerating
equipment
Not in a special machinery room Below ground or on upper floors without adequate Not for air conditioning for Not for air conditioning
C.1a) emergency exits like category A human comfort, if people for human comfort
Otherwise no restrictions of charge are restricted in their C.2.3.1
C.2.1.3.1 movement
C.2.2.1
Up to 10,0 kg
C.2.2.3.1
Compressor, accumulator in a No restrictions of charge Not for air conditioning for No restrictions of Calculated from practical limits
special machinery room or in the C.2.1.3.2 human comfort, if people charge Below ground up to 1,0 kg
open air are restricted in their C.2.2.3.2b) C.2.3.3.1b)
C.1b) movement Otherwise up to 2,5 kg
C.2.2.1 C.2.3.3.1a)
Otherwise up to 25 kg
C.2.2.3.2a)
All refrigerant containing parts in a Not for air conditioning for Not for air conditioning
special machinery room or in the human comfort, if people for human comfort
open air are restricted in their C.2.3.1
C.1c) movement
C.2.2.1
Without direct communication to a human occupied Below ground up to 1,0 kg
space; no restrictions of charge C.2.3.3.2b)
C.2.2.3.3 Otherwise up to 10,0 kg
C.2.3.3.2a)
(continued)
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EN378-1:2000
Table C.1: (concluded)
Occupancy category C
Refrigerant Group L1 (C.2.1) L2 (C.2.2) L3 (C.2.3)
Cooling or heating Direct or indirect Other indirect Direct, indirect Other indirect Direct, indirect Other indirect
of refrigerating
equipment
Not in a special machinery room Below ground or on Not for air conditioning Not for air conditioning for
C.1a) upper floors without for human comfort, if human comfort
adequate emergency people are restricted in C.2.3.1
exits like category A their movement
C.2.1.4.1 C.2.2.1
Otherwise no restrictions of charge up to 10,0 kg Below ground up to 1,0 kg
C.2.1.4.1 C.2.2.4.1b) C.2.3.4.1b)
Otherwise up to 10,0 kg
C.2.3.4.1a)
No more than 50 kg, if density of personnel < 1/10m2
and adequate exits available
C.2.2.4.1a)
Compressor, accumulator in a No restrictions of charge Not for air conditioning No restrictions of charge Not for air conditioning for
special machinery room or in the C.2.1.4.2 for human comfort, if C.2.2.4.2b) human comfort
open air people are restricted in C.2.3.1
C.1b) their movement
C.2.2.1
No restrictions, if density
of personnel < 1/10 m2
and adequate exits
available
C.2.2.4.2a)
Below ground up to 1,0 kg
C.2.3.4.2b)
Otherwise up to 25 kg
C.2.3.4.2a)
All refrigerant containing parts in a Not for air conditioning Not for air conditioning for
special machinery room or in the for human comfort, if human comfort
open air people are restricted in C.2.3.1
C.1c) their movement
C.2.2.1
No restrictions of charge C.2.2.4.3 Below ground up to 1,0 kg
C.2.3.4.3b)
Otherwise no restrictions of charge C.2.3.4.3a)
Page 38
EN378-1:2000
Annex D (informative)
Protection of people who are inside cold rooms
D.1 General
In order to minimize the hazard for people who get locked in cold rooms, sometimes along with strong currents of air,
measures as described in the following clauses shall be taken. Care shall be taken to ensure that no personnel are
locked in cold rooms at the end of the working day.
D.2 Operation of doors and emergency exit doors
It shall be possible to leave a cold room at all times. Therefore it shall be possible to open doors both from the inside and
the outside.
D.3 Emergency switch or signal
According to the operating conditions, the following devices shall be provided in cold rooms with a volume of more
3
than 10 m :
a) an alarm switch operated by illuminated push buttons near the floor or by chains hanging near the floor, installed in a
suitable place in the cold room, the operation of which initiates an audible signal and a sight signal, in a place where the
permanent presence of a person is guaranteed. It shall not be possible to stop this signal except by means of a specific
operation;
b) signal devices connected to an electric circuit with a voltage of at least 12 V. Batteries for this purpose shall have an
operating time of at least 10 h and be connected to a mains supplied automatic charging device. If a transformer is used,
it shall be supplied with current from a different circuit to the one used for other equipment in the cold room. Furthermore,
the device shall be of such design that it does not cease to function due to corrosion, frost or the formation of ice on
contact surfaces;
c) a light switch in the cold room in parallel with light switches located outside this room so that the lighting turned on by
means of the inside switch cannot be turned off by means of the outside switch;
d) a plug switch or other systems giving the same result for the fans located in the cold room in series with the switches
located on the outside so that the fans turned off by means of the inside switch cannot be turned on by means of the
outside switch;
e) light switches shall have permanently illuminated buttons;
f) in the event of failure of the lighting, the routes towards the emergency exit (and/or alarm switch) shall be indicated by
independent lighting or by other approved means;
g) a permanent emergency lighting system.
D.4 Cold rooms with a controlled atmosphere
In cold rooms with a controlled atmosphere (rooms with an atmosphere in which the concentration of oxygen, carbon
dioxide and nitrogen are different from those in normal air) the following additional requirements apply:
a) a self-contained breathing apparatus shall be worn when entering these cold rooms;
b) if a cold room with a controlled atmosphere is entered, another person shall remain outside the room and in visual
contact with those inside through an inspection port. The person outside shall also have a self-contained breathing
apparatus at his disposal in case he should have to enter the room in order to rescue the person inside in an emergency.
c) doors, hatches and other appliances giving access to the cold room shall be provided with a written warning notice
against too low oxygen level in the cold room.
Page 39
EN378-1:2000
Annex E (informative)
Information about refrigerants

1
Table E.1: Information about refrigerants )
Classification Description Molar Practical Flammability Global Ozone

Group Safety Refrigerant Formula mass3) limit4),5) Auto-ignition Flammability limits warming depletion
L group number2) temperature concentration in air potential6) potenital7)
(MM) lower limit upper limit
(composition = % weight) kg/kmol kg/m3 °C kg/m3 % v/v kg/m3 % v/v GWP100 ODP
1 A1 R-11 Trichlorofluoromethane CCl3F 137,4 0,3 – – – – – 4000 1
1 A1 R-12 Dichlorodifluoromethane CCl2F2 120,9 0,5 – – – – – 8500 1
1 A1 R-12B1 Bromochlorodifluoromethane CBrClF2 165,4 0,2 – – – – – * 3
1 A1 R-13 Chlorotrifluoromethane CClF3 104,5 0,5 – – – – – 11700 1
1 A1 R-13B1 Bromotrifluoromethane CBrF3 148,9 0,6 – – – – – 5600 10
1 A1 R-22 Chlorodifluoromethane CHClF2 86,5 0,3 635 – – – – 1700 0,055
1 A1 R-23 Trifluoromethane CHF3 70 0,68 765 – – – – 12100 0
1 A1 R-113 1,1,2-Trichloro-1,2,2-trifluoroethane CCl2FCClF2 187,4 0,4 – – – – – 5000 0,8
1 A1 R-114 1,2-Dichloro-1,1,2,2-tetrafluoroethane CClF2CClF2 170,9 0,7 – – – – – 9300 1
1 A1 R-115 2-Chloro-1,1,1,2,2-pentafluoroethane CF3CClF2 154,5 0,6 – – – – – 9300 0,6
1 A1 R-124 2-Chloro-1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane CF3CHCIF 136,5 0,11 * – – – – 480 0,022
1 A1 R-125 Pentafluoroethane CF3CHF2 120 0,39 733 – – – – 3200 0
1 A1 R-134a 1,1,1,2-Tetrafluoroethane CF3CH2F 102 0,25 743 – – – – 1300 0
1 A1 R-218 Octafluoropropane C3F8 188 1,84 – – – – – 7000 0
1 A1 R-C318 Octafluorocyclobutane C4F8 200 0,81 – – – – – 9100 0
1 A1 R-500 R-12/152a (73,8/26,2) CCl2F2 + 99,3 0,40 * – – – – 6300 0,74

CF2HCH3
(continued)
Page 40
EN378-1:2000
Table E.1: (continued)

1 A1 R-501 R-12/22 (25/75) CCl2F2 + CHClF2 93,1 0,38 * – – – – 3400 0,29
1 A1 R-502 R-22/115 (48,8/51,2) CHClF2 + 111,7 0,45 * – – – – 5600 0,33

CF3CClF2
1 A1 R-503 R-13/23 (59,9/40,1) CClF3 + CHF3 87,3 0,35 * – – – – 11900 0,6
1 A1 R-507 R-125/143a (50/50) CF3CHF2 + 98,8 0,49 * – – – – 3800 0

CF3CH3
1 A1 R-508A R-23/116 (39/61) CHF3+C2F6 100,1 * * – – – – 12300 0
1 A1 R-509 R-22/218 (44/56) CHCIF2+ 124 0,56 * – – – – 4700 0,024

C3F8
1 A1 R-718 Water H20 18 – – – – – – 0 0
1 A1 R-744 Carbon dioxide CO2 44 0,1 – – – – – 1 0
1 A1/A1 R-401A R-22/152a/124 (53/13/34) CHClF2 + 94,4 0,30 681 – – – – 1100 0,037
CHF2CH3 +
CF3CHClF
1 A1/A1 R-401B R-22/152a/124 (61/11/28) CHClF2 + 92,8 0,34 685 – – – – 1200 0,040
CHF2CH3 +
CF3CHClF
1 A1/A1 R-401C R-22/152a/124 (33/15/52) CHClF2 + 101 0,24 * – – – – 830 0,030

CHF2CH3 +
CF3CHClF
(continued)
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EN378-1:2000

1 A1/A1 R-402A R-125/290/22 (60/2/38) CF3CHF2 + 101,5 0,33 723 – – – – 2600 0,021
CH3CH2CH3 +
CHClF2
1 A1/A1 R-402B R-125/290/22 (38/2/60) CF3CHF2 + 94,7 0,32 641 – – – – 2200 0,033
CH3CH2CH3 +
CHClF2
1 A1/A1 R-403A R-22/218/290 (75/20/5) CHClF2 + C3F8 + 92 0,33 * – – – – 2700 0,041
C3H8
1 A1/A1 R-403B R-22/218/290 (56/39/5) CHClF2 + C3F8 + 103,2 0,41 * – – – – 3700 0,031
C3H8
1 A1/A1 R-404A R-125/143a/134a (44/52/4) CF3CHF2 + 97,6 0,48 728 – – – – 3800 0

CF3CH3 +
CF3CH2F
1 A1/A1 R-405A R-22/152a/142b/C318 CHCIF2+ 111,9 * * – – – – 4800 0,028
(45/7/5,5/42,5) CHF2CH3+
CH3CCIF2+C4F8
1 A1/A1 R-407A R-32/125/134a (20/40/40) CH2F2 + 90,1 0,33 685 – – – – 1900 0
CF3CHF2 +
CF3CHF2F
1 A1/A1 R-407B R-32/125/134a (10/70/20) CH2F2 + 102,9 0,35 703 – – – – 2600 0
CF3CHF2 +
CF3CHF2F
1 A1/A1 R-407C R-32/125/134a (23/25/52) CH2F2 + 86,2 0,31 704 – – – – 1600 0
CF3CHF2 +
CF3CHF2F
1 A1/A1 R-408A R-125/143a/22 (7/46/47) CF3CHF2 + 87 0,41 * – – – – 3100 0,026
CF3CH3 +
CHClF2
(continued)
Page 42
EN378-1:2000

1 A1/A1 R-409A R-22/124/142b (60/25/15) CHClF2 + 97,5 0,16 * – – – – 1400 0,048
CF3CHCIF +
CH3CClF2
1 A1/A1 R-409B R-22/124/142b (65/25/10) CHClF2 + 96,7 0,17 * – – – – 1400 0,048
CF3CHClF +
CH3CClF2
1 A1/A1 R-410A R-32/125 (50/50) CH2F2 + 72,6 0,44 * – – – – 1900 0
CF3CHF2
1 A1/A1 R-410B R-32/125 (45/55) CH2F2 + 75,5 0,43 * – – – – 2000 0

CF3CHF2
1 A1/A1 R-508B R-23/116 (46/54) CHF3+C2F6 95,4 * * – – – – 12300 0
2 A1/A2 R-406A R-22/142b/600a (55/41/4) CHClF2 + 89,9 0,13 * – – – – 1800 0,057

CClF2CH3 +
CH(CH3)3
2 A1/A2 R-411A R-22/152a/1270 (87,5/11/1,5) CHCIF2 + 82,4 * * – – – – 1500 0,048
CHF2CH3 +
C3H6
2 A1/A2 R-411B R-22/152a/1270 (94/3/3) CHCIF2 + 83,1 * * – – – – 1600 0,052
CHF2CH3 +
C3H6
2 A1/A2 R-412A R-22/218/142b (70/5/25) CHCIF2 + 92,2 0,18 * – – – – 2000 0,055
C3F8 +
CClF2CH3
(continued)
Page 43
EN378-1:2000

3) 4) 5)
Group Safety Refrigerant Formula mass limit , Auto-ignition Flammability limits warming depletion
2 A2 R-32 Difluoromethane CH2F2 52 0,054 530 0,27 12,7 0,710 33,4 580 0
2 A2 R-50 Methane CH4 16 0,006 645 0,032 4,9 0,098 15 24,5 0
2 A2 R-141b 1,1-Dichloro-1-fluoroethane CCl2FCH3 117 0,053 532 0,268 5,6 0,847 17,7 630 0,11
2 A2 R-142b 1-Chloro-1,1-difluoroethane CClF2CH3 100,5 0,049 632 0,247 6 0,74 18 2000 0,065
2 A2 R-143a 1,1,1-Trifluoroethane CF3CH3 84 0,048 750 0,244 7 0,553 16,1 4400 0
2 A2 R-152a 1,1-Difluoroethane CHF2CH3 66 0,027 455 0,137 5,1 0,462 17,1 140 0
2 A2 R-160 Ethylchloride CH3CH2Cl 64,5 0,019 510 0,095 3,6 0,39 14,8 * 0
2 B1 R-123 2,2-Dichloro-1,1,1-trifluoroethane CF3CHCl2 152,9 0,10 730 – – – – 93 0,02
2 B1 R-764 Sulfur dioxide SO2 64,1 0,00026 * – – – – * 0
2 B2 R-30 Methylene chloride CH2Cl2 84,9 0,017 662 0,417 12 0,764 22 15 0
2 B2 R-40 Methylchloride CH3Cl 50,5 0,021 625 0,147 7,1 0,382 18,5 * 0
2 B2 R-611 Methylformate C2H4O2 60 0,012 456 0,123 5 0,687 28 * 0
2 B2 R-717 Ammonia NH3 17 0,00035 630 0,104 15 0,195 28 0 0
2 B2 R-1130 1,2-Dichloroethylene CHCl = CHCl 96,9 * 458 0,246 6,2 0,595 15 * 0
(continued)
Page 44
EN 378-1:2000
Table E.1: (concluded)
3 A3 R-170 Ethane CH3CH3 30 0,008 515 0,037 3 0,19 15,5 3 0
3 A3 R-290 Propane CH3CH2CH3 44 0,008 470 0,038 2,1 0,171 9,5 3 0
3 A3 R-600 Butane C4H10 58,1 0,008 365 0,036 1,5 0,202 8,5 3 0
3 A3 R-600a Isobutane CH(CH3)3 58,1 0,008 460 0,043 1,8 0,202 8,5 3 0
3 A3 R-1150 Ethylene CH2 = CH2 28,1 0,006 425 0,031 2,7 0,391 34 * 0
3 A3 R-1270 Propylene C3H6 42,1 0,008 455 0,043 2,5 0,174 10,1 * 0
3 A3 – Dimethylether CH3OCH3 46 0,011 235 0,064 3,4 0,489 26 * 0
* = not known
– = not applicable
1)
The table is not a complete list of substances which could be used as refrigerants. If other substances are used the appropriate practical limits are derived using the method outlined in 4) and the
refrigerant is applied as appropriate to its safety group and practical limit.
2)
The R-numbers are in accordance with ISO 817.
3)
For comparison, the molecular mass of air is taken equal to 28,8 kg/kmol.
4)
The practical limits for group L1 refrigerants are less than half the concentration of the refrigerant which can lead to suffocation due to oxygen displacement or which has narcotic (N) or cardiac
sensitisation (CS) effect (80 % of the effect level) after a short time, whichever is the most critical.
For single component refrigerants of group L1, the calculation of practical limits (PL) is "PL (kg/m3) = CS or N (ppm)×0,8×MM×10-6/24,45"; for blends (A/B/C), the calculation
is "PL (kg/m3) = 1/[A/100/PL(A)+ B/100/PL(B)+C/100/PL(C)]" with A, B, C expressed in % weight.
For group L2 refrigerants the practical limits refer to the toxicological and flammability characteristics, whichever is the most critical. For group L2-B1 a value corresponding to 100 % of IDLH
(immediately dangerous concentrations for life or health) is taken for R-764 and 100 % of OEL (occupational exposure limit) is taken for R-123. For group L2-B2 a value corresponding to 100 % of
IDLH or 20 % of LFL (lower flammability limit) is taken, whichever is the lower value.
For Group L3 refrigerants 20 % of LFL is used as practical limit.
5)
These values are reduced to 2/3 of the listed value for altitudes higher than 2 000 m above sea level and to 1/3 of the listed value for altitudes higher than 3 500 m above sea level.
6)
The GWP is defined in the "Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change: 1994, The IPCC Scientific Assessment". These data are the most updated scientific values and can be revised.
7)
The ODP data are those listed in the "Official Journal of the European Communities L 333, volume 37, 22 December 1994" and used by all regulators. They are different from scientific ODP-values,
which are continuously updated.
Page 45
EN 378-1:2000
Annex F (informative)
Risk Assessment
When selecting a refrigerant the following factors in respect of risk should be considered:
NOTE: Without priority.
a) environmental effects (global environment);
b) refrigerant charge;
c) application of refrigerating system;
d) design of refrigerating system;
e) manufacture of refrigerating system;
f) competence;
g) maintenance;
h) energy efficiency;
i) health and safety, e.g. toxicity, flammability (local environment).
This list is not exhaustive.

Page 46
EN 378-1:2000
Annex G (informative)
Bibliography
EN 133, Respiratory protective devices – Classification

EN 378-3, Refrigerating systems and heat pumps – Safety and environmental requirements – Part 3:
Installation site and personal protection
EN 736-1, Valves – Terminology – Part 1: Definition of types of valves
EN 764, Pressure equipment – Terminology and symbols – Pressure, temperature, volume
EN 60204-1, Safety of machinery – Electrical equipment of machines – Part 1: General requirements
(IEC 60204-1 : 1997)
EN 60335-1, Safety of household and similar electrical appliances – Part 1: General requirements
(IEC 60335-1 : 1991, modified)
prEN 60335-2-24 : 1997, Safety of household and similar electrical appliances – Part 2: Particular requirements
for refrigerators and food-freezers and ice-makers (IEC 60335-2-24 : 1997)
EN 60335-2-34, Safety of household and similar electrical appliances – Part 2: Particular requirements for
motorcompressors (IEC 60335-2-34 : 1996)
EN 60335-2-40, Safety of household and similar electrical appliances – Part 2: Particular requirements for electrical heat
pumps, air-conditioners and dehumidifiers (IEC 60335-3-40 : 1997, modified)
ISO 817, Organic refrigerants – Number designation
ANSI/ASTM E 681,
Test method for concentration limits of flammability of chemicals
Pressure equipment for refrigerating systems and heat pumps – Part 1: Vessels – General requirements (WI 00182025)
Page 47
EN 378-1:2000
Annex ZA (informative)
A-deviations
A-deviation: National deviation due to regulations, the alteration of which is for the time being outside the competence of
the CEN/CENELEC member.
This European standard falls partly under Directive 97/23/EU and 98/37/EU.
In the relevant CEN/CENELEC countries these A-deviations are valid instead of the provisions of the European Standard
until they have been removed.
Sweden has at present national legislative requirements in conflict with some clauses of 378 Part 2. National regulations
concerning pressure equipment are covered by AFS 1994:39, Tryckkärl issued by the National Board of Occupational
Safety and Health.
The following parts in EN 378-2 are in conflict:
Clause Deviation
3.4.8 Pressure vessel (AFS 1994:39 Chap. 1 section 2 and Chap. 2 section 2).
4.4.2 Marking (AFS 1994:39 Chap. 3 section 6)
BS EN 378-1:2000
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this British Standard would inform the Secretary of the technical committee
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BRITISH STANDARD BS EN

The European Standard EN 378-1:2000, incorporating amendment

ICS 27.080; 27.200

This British Standard is the official English language version of

— aid enquirers to understand the text;

— present to the responsible international/European committee any

A list of organizations represented on this committee can be obtained on

This British Standard, having Summary of pages

Amendments issued since publication

Amd. No. Date Comments

14930 20 February 2004 Revision of EN foreword page, deletion of

ISBN 0 580 34215 8

ICS 01.040.27; 27.080; 27.200 Supersedes EN 378:1994

Refrigerating systems and heat pumps - Safety and

EUROPEAN COMMITTEE FOR STANDARDIZATION

Central Secretariat: rue de Stassart, 36 B-1050 Brussels

2 Normative references ...................................................................................................................6

7 Selection of cooling or heating systems ..................................................................................22

Annex A (informative) Equivalent terms in English, French and German ...........................................24

Annex B (informative) Total equivalent warming impact (TEWI) ..........................................................28

Annex C (informative) Location of refrigerating systems .....................................................................31

Annex E (informative) Information about refrigerants...........................................................................39

Annex F (informative) Risk assessment .................................................................................................45

Annex G (informative) Bibliography........................................................................................................46

Annex ZA (informative) A-deviations ......................................................................................................47

This European Standard supersedes EN 378:1994.

This EN 378-1:1999 is part of a standard consisting of a series of the following parts:

Part 1 Basic requirements, definitions, classification and selection criteria

Part 2 Design, construction, testing, marking and documentation

Part 3 Installation site and personal protection

Part 4 Operation, maintenance, repair and recovery

The annexes A, B, C, D, E, F, G and ZA of this European Standard are informative.

Inadequate precautions may result in:

– rupture of a part or even an explosion, with risk from projected materials;

– burning or explosion of escaping refrigerant with consequent risk of fire.

The following hazards are worthy of note:

a) from the direct effect of low temperature, for example:

– brittleness of materials at low temperatures;

b) from excessive pressure due to, for example:

c) from the direct effect of the liquid phase, for example:

– excessive charge or flooding of equipment;

d) from the escape of refrigerants, for example:

e) from the moving parts of machinery, for example:

b) secondary cooling or heating systems; and

c) the location of these refrigerating systems.

3.1 Refrigerating systems

NOTE: Mobile systems include the following:

3.2 Occupancies, localities

3.2.4 lobby: Entrance hall or large hallway serving as a waiting room.

3.2.5 hallway: Corridor for the passage of people.

3.2.10 open air: Any unenclosed space, which may be roofed.

NOTE: All pressures are gauge pressures, unless otherwise indicated.

3.4 Components of refrigerating systems

3.4.4.2 semihermetic (accessible hermetic) motorcompressor: Combination consisting of a compressor and

– component parts of sealed absorption systems;

– coils and grids;

– piping and its valves, joints and fittings;

3.5 Piping, joints and fittings

3.5.2 joint: Connection made between two parts.

3.6 Safety accessories

3.7.8 outside air: Air from outside the building.

3.7.9 halocarbon and hydrocarbon:

HCFC: Halocarbon containing hydrogen, chlorine, fluorine and carbon;