What safety measure should be taken when working with refrigerants during maintenance?

When working with refrigerants during maintenance, wearing protective gear and ensuring proper ventilation is essential for safety. Refrigerants can be harmful if inhaled or if they come into contact with skin. Protective gear, such as gloves and goggles, serves to limit exposure to these potentially hazardous substances. Ventilation is crucial because it helps to dissipate any harmful vapors that may be released, preventing the buildup of toxic or flammable gases in the work area. Proper ventilation minimizes the risk of asphyxiation or other respiratory issues. Therefore, this safety measure is vital in maintaining both personal safety and a safe working environment while handling refrigerants.