What does ASHRAE Standard 15-1994 require for machinery rooms regarding refrigerant concentrations?

ASHRAE Standard 15-1994 sets forth guidelines to ensure safety in machinery rooms where refrigerants are present. Specifically, it requires an alarm and mechanical ventilation system to monitor and address refrigerant concentrations.

The reasoning behind this requirement is centered on the potential hazards associated with refrigerants, which can be harmful to health if allowed to build up in confined spaces. An alarm is crucial for alerting personnel to dangerous levels of refrigerant, while a mechanical ventilation system is necessary to continuously circulate air and disperse any leaked refrigerant, thus ensuring a safe environment.

This standard emphasizes the importance of proactive safety measures in handling refrigerants to minimize health risks and promote a safe working atmosphere in mechanical rooms. By combining alarms with mechanical ventilation, facilities can better manage the risks associated with refrigerant leaks effectively.