Fact Sheet #8
Freon & the Workplace
Tuesday, November 12, 2002
Freon is a generally colorless, non-flammable gas or liquid. It is primarily used as refrigerant and polymer intermediates. Freon is also used in the degreasing of electrical equipment, in aerosol propellants, anesthetics, fire extinguishers, foam blowing agents, and in dry cleaning. Freon is used because of its low toxicity to humans. However, freon is a significant environmental toxin.
Health Effects
Freon is an irritant to the eyes and respiratory passages. Contact with skin may cause dermatitis of skin rashes. Exposure to high concentrations of the chemical can cause dizziness and lack of coordination. Asphyxiation may even be the result of freon exposure.
Freon is taken into the body by inhalation of vapor or gas.
Medical Surveillance
There are no specific diagnostic tests for the toxic effects which occur at high concentrations of freon exposure. Employers should provide all employees who work with or around freon with annual physical exams. (If the employer does not presently give such exams, these should be negotiated into the collective bargaining agreement.) All physical exams should consider possible cardiac or heart effects from acute exposure.
Personal Protective Equipment
Employers should provide exposed workers with the following personal protective equipment:
non-porous gloves, aprons, and goggles; and
the workplace should also be well-ventilated.
What Can You Do?
The key to making the workplace safe for all CWA members is strong, active Local safety and health committees. The committee can identify dangerous conditions at the workplace and discuss them with management. If the company refuses to cooperate, the committee can request an OSHA inspection. The committee should always coordinate its activities through the Local officers, the CWA Representatives, and negotiated safety and health committees.
In addition, CWA members may obtain information and assistance by contacting:
CWA Occupational Safety and Health Department
501 Third Street, N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20001-2797
Phone: (202) 434-1160
