If R134 accidentally touches a refrigeration engineer's skin, what first aid should be applied?

Flushing the skin with water is the appropriate first aid measure for exposure to R134, which is a refrigerant that can cause frostbite or skin irritation upon contact. When R134 touches the skin, it can rapidly cool the surface, leading to tissue damage. Immediate and thorough flushing with water helps to remove the chemical and warms the affected area gradually, reducing the risk of further injury.

Using a topical ointment could trap the refrigerant against the skin, potentially worsening the exposure and skin damage. Covering the area with a bandage without first removing the chemical could seal it against the skin, which is also not advisable. Likewise, leaving the area untouched could lead to more severe reactions or complications, as the chemical may continue to affect the skin.

Therefore, promptly flushing the skin with water is the best immediate response to minimize harm after accidental contact with R134.