Freon Leak Health Risks & Emergency Response

Freon (HCFC refrigerant) leaks from AC units can harm you via inhalation, skin, or eye contact.

Health Effects

• Inhalation: dizziness, nausea, headache, breathing difficulty; high concentrations cause unconsciousness, cardiac arrest.
• Skin contact: liquid Freon causes frostbite; vapor causes irritation, dermatitis.
• Eye contact: severe irritation, corneal damage, vision loss.
• Chronic exposure: linked to liver/kidney damage, cancer risk.

If Exposed

1. Move to fresh air immediately.
2. Flush skin/eyes with water for 15+ minutes.
3. Call 911 if symptomatic (breathing trouble, dizziness).
4. Seek medical evaluation.

Prevention

Schedule regular AC maintenance by a certified technician. If you suspect a leak, shut off the unit and call a pro.