NTT Blog

HVAC: Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning Systems Introduction

When it comes to installing and maintaining HVAC systems, employers want their work force to be well trained on two fronts: efficiency and safety. Refresher courses or seminars devoted to HVAC efficiency and safety topics can help your team stay abreast of the latest developments in the industry.

More Efficient HVAC Systems

The HVAC industry has been revolutionized in recent years by advances in efficiency. New technology has been developed to achieve thermostat set points with less energy, both in residential and commercial buildings. This technology is helping homeowners and businesses save money on utility bills, and for commercial enterprises, is boosting profits. Even in a time when energy is relatively cheap, the HVAC industry continues to push efficiency through new technology, such as:

• mini-split and multi-split heat pumps
• renewable thermal-integrated systems
• ultra high-efficiency rooftop units (RTUs) for both air conditioning and heating systems
• condensing RTUs for heating systems
• electronically commutated motors for greater blower motor efficiency

Additionally, new heat recovery ventilation systems help reduce energy costs by capturing heat generated inside the home when stale air is exhausted through the vents.

These technologies have the added benefit of reducing the carbon footprint of the residence or the business, which not only helps the environment, but also enhances the image of the business as one that is concerned about doing its part to reduce carbon emissions.

Installing units that feature these newer technologies requires that workers know how to obtain maximum efficiencies from the equipment so customers get their money’s worth. Even the installation of older, more familiar systems requires a well-trained technician who understands how HVAC systems work holistically when each component is coordinated with the other to maximize efficiency. For example, the most sophisticated computerized heating system with the highest AFUE (annual fuel utilization efficiency) will not perform at peak if the duct (ventilation) system is not designed, installed, and maintained properly.

Safer Workers

The hazards of working in the HVAC industry are well known to veteran HVAC consultants. Among them are these:

• exposure to refrigerant, which can cause breathing problems and organ damage
• exposure to gas leaks, which can cause an explosion
• exposure to carbon monoxide, which can be deadly
• exposure to dust and other airborne particulates
• exposure to toxic chemicals such as coil cleaner
• exposure to hot fluids or surfaces
• exposure to asbestos
• explosions from improper handling of chemicals
• electrical shock
• injury from fire
• back injury from moving heavy equipment
• injury from moving parts
• head injury
• confined space entry issues
• hearing loss from exposure to loud equipment
• injury from a fall
• contamination of the environment

Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned HVAC worker, it’s important to not only be familiar with well-established safety procedures in the industry, but also to practice them. A refresher course or workforce training seminar can help your team become more alert to industry hazards, safe practices, and the proper use of safety equipment.

A recent article in ACHR (Air Conditioning, Heating and Refrigeration) News, an industry trade publication, lists the following as the major hazards to an HVAC consultant:

• fatigue-related mistakes
• possible exposure to asbestos through insulation
• electrocution from wiring and equipment
• falling from heights during equipment installation
• burns from exposure to hot equipment, flames, and use of soldering equipment

In fact, ACHR reported that in 2014, 4679 U.S. HVAC workers were killed on the job, mainly due to falls and electrocution.

A workplace culture where safety is valued will not only reduce employee downtime due to injury, but also enhance productivity and efficiency. Yes, the HVAC industry has many inherent dangers in the performance of routine installation and repair, but by stressing safe practices, those hazards can be minimized.

An additional incentive for enhanced safety is the fact that in 2016, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) increased fines for safety violations. That is another reason for HVAC consultants to stay on top of safety issues with their teams, to avoid fines and lawsuits.

Creating a Workplace Culture of Safety

Whether you’re involved in commercial or residential HVAC maintenance and installation, you’re wise to provide training for your work force that stresses the following:

• maintaining peak efficiencies and avoidance of downtime due to unscheduled maintenance and repair from breakdowns
• safe practices when dealing with electrical connections and other hazards

Training for Your Work Force

Check out NTT Training’s HVAC Heating and Ventilation course. Help boost efficiency while improving workplace safety by offering this training for your team. Connect with NTT Training today for more information.

For more information about National Technology Transfer or any of our programs click here: http://www.nttinc.com or http://www.nttinc.com/seminar-list-catalog/.