Where It Comes From
Leaks or venting from older R‑12 refrigerators, freezers, and car A/C systems, and some legacy aerosol products. [1][3]
How You Are Exposed
Breathing air in poorly ventilated areas during equipment leaks, servicing, or disposal; accidental releases in enclosed spaces. [1][2]
Why It Matters
High exposures can cause dizziness, confusion, fainting, irregular heartbeat, and frostbite from liquid contact; extreme concentrations can asphyxiate. Ozone depletion from CFC‑12 increases skin cancer and cataract risk. [2][3]
Who Is at Risk
Workers who service, repair, or scrap older refrigeration/auto A/C equipment; people near leaks in small rooms. [1][2]
How to Lower Your Exposure
Replace or retrofit old R‑12 units; use certified technicians to recover refrigerant (no venting); ensure good ventilation; follow PPE and safe‑work practices when handling refrigerants. [2][3]
References
- [1]ATSDR. ToxFAQs for Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs). Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry. https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/toxfaqs/
- [2]CDC/NIOSH. NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards: Dichlorodifluoromethane. https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/npg/
- [3]U.S. EPA. Health and Environmental Effects of Ozone Layer Depletion; and Class I Ozone-Depleting Substances (CFC‑12). https://www.epa.gov/ozone-layer-protection/health-and-environmental-effects-ozone-layer-depletion; https://www.epa.gov/ozone-layer-protection/ozone-depleting-substances#classI