How harmful is R-134A or freon on the skin?

Answer 1

Freons generally have a low order of toxicity. However, exposure to relatively high

concentrations (>100 ppm) may produce adverse effects on health. Possible exposure routes

include inhalation, ingestion, skin and eye contact (NIOSH, 2003B; NIOSH, 2003C).

Freon vapor may cause irritation of the eyes, nose, throat, and mucous membrane at low

concentrations (Meditext, 2003; Hazardtext, 2003B). At high concentrations, Freon vapor may

cause pulmonary edema and neurological problems such as central nervous system depression,

dizziness, headache, drowsiness, tremors, seizures, confusion, in-coordination, loss of

consciousness, and paralysis (Hazardtext, 2003B; Dupont, 1996A; OSHA, 1998; NIOSH, 2003C).

Inhalation of high concentrations may also result in temporary alteration of the heart's electrical

activity by increasing the sensitivity of the heart to the arrhythmogenic action of epinephrine,

causing irregular pulse, palpitations, or inadequate circulation (Dupont, 1996A; Dupont, 1996F;

OSHA, 1998; Reprotext, 2003). Deliberate inhalation ("sniffing") may cause death without

warning (Dupont, 1996A; Dupont, 1996F; OSHA, 1998).

At extremely high concentrations (several thousand ppm), Freon vapor has the potential to

reduce the amount of oxygen available for breathing, especially in confined spaces, which can

lead to suffocation (Dupont, 1996A; Dupont, 1996F; OSHA, 1998; Reprotext, 2003).

Ingestion of liquid Freon 11 may cause nausea, headache, or weakness (Dupont, 1996B);

ingestion of larger volumes may also cause stomach perforation and necrosis (Hazardtext,

2003B; Lewis, 1997A). Direct eye contact with liquid Freon may cause irritation with discomfort,

tearing, or blurring of vision. Skin contact with liquid Freon can cause frostbite.

Repeated skin contact with liquid Freon may also cause drying of the skin resulting in mild skin irritation with discomfort or rash (Dupont, 1996A; Dupont, 1996F; OSHA, 1998).

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