What are the primary risks associated with ammonia as a refrigerant?

Ammonia as a refrigerant is recognized for its effectiveness and efficiency, but it poses significant health and safety risks. The primary concerns associated with ammonia include its toxicity and the potential for hazardous exposure.

Ammonia is a colorless gas that can be harmful or even fatal in high concentrations. Inhalation of ammonia can result in serious health effects, including respiratory distress and potential damage to lung tissue. Additionally, ammonia is flammable in specific concentrations within the air, which heightens the risk of fire or explosion in certain scenarios.

Because of these risks, it's crucial for technicians working with ammonia refrigeration systems to have proper training and safety measures in place. This includes using appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), ensuring adequate ventilation, and having emergency protocols for leak detection and response.

This understanding underscores why option C accurately captures the primary risks associated with ammonia as a refrigerant. Other options, such as those focusing on cost, efficiency, odor, or regulatory issues, do not directly address the main safety concerns that professionals must prioritize when working with ammonia.