In refrigerant handling, what is essential to avoid hazardous situations?

Correct labeling and storage of refrigerants is crucial in avoiding hazardous situations during refrigerant handling. Proper labeling ensures that anyone who interacts with the refrigerants understands the contents, the associated risks, and the necessary precautions that must be taken. Mislabeling or lack of labeling can lead to confusion and potentially dangerous mishandling of refrigerants, which could result in leaks, exposure, or even accidents involving incompatible substances.

Moreover, appropriate storage helps to maintain refrigerant integrity and ensures that it is kept in a controlled environment, which minimizes the risks of pressure build-up due to environmental factors. Storage areas should also be well-ventilated and meet specific safety standards to avoid hazards such as fire or chemical reactions.

The other options, while they contribute to a safe working environment, do not directly address the immediate need for minimizing risks associated with refrigerant handling in the same fundamental way labeling and storage do. Thus, correct labeling and storing practices take precedence in ensuring safety and compliance in refrigerant management.