News & Views, July 2017

HFO-1234yf REFRIGERANT IS A FLAMMABLE GAS

Automobiles have been using refrigerant gases in their AC systems for decades.  The refrigerant gases have generally been inert gases, such as Freon-12 and R-134.  Recently, many auto manufacturers have started to use HFO-1234yf as the refrigerant gas in their AC systems.  This gas is expensive, about $80/lb., and the recycling machine costs another $5000.  The bigger issue is that it is a flammable gas.  Flammable gases pose special hazards and dealers should take steps to address this concern.

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Wastewater Disposal, Respiratory Protection Program, Forklift Operator Training, etc., May 1999

Wastewater Disposal

A number of auto dealers in Orange County, California are involved in a lawsuit over improper disposal of wastewater to storm drains.  A company that previously was involved in cleaning the shop floors at some of these dealerships has filed the lawsuit.  While the legal theories being used in the lawsuit are complex, the objective of this article is to reinforce proper wastewater disposal procedures for the dealerships.

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