What harmful effect can occur when refrigerants are exposed to fire?

When refrigerants are exposed to fire, they can decompose and produce toxic fumes, which poses a significant health hazard. The breakdown of refrigerants at high temperatures can lead to the release of hazardous compounds, such as phosgene or hydrogen fluoride, depending on the type of refrigerant. These chemicals can be highly toxic if inhaled or if they come into contact with skin. Understanding this risk is crucial for anyone working with refrigerants, particularly in environments where fire could be a concern.

The other choices, while they address potential consequences of heat exposure, do not highlight the immediate and serious health risks associated with the release of toxic byproducts from decomposed refrigerants. Thus, recognizing the production of harmful fumes underscores the critical need for safety measures and proper handling of refrigerants in any situation where fire could occur.