Which of the following statements is true about R-134a refrigerant?

R-134a, also known as tetrafluoroethane, is a hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) that is commonly used as a refrigerant in automotive air conditioning systems. The statement that it does not pose a cancer or birth defect hazard is substantiated by extensive health and safety evaluations conducted on R-134a.

In particular, studies by organizations such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) have shown that R-134a does not exhibit carcinogenic properties or a significant risk for causing birth defects. This assessment has led to its approval for widespread use in various cooling applications.

In contrast to this, assertions about cancer hazards or risks for birth defects associated with other substances or certain refrigerants like R-12 (which is chlorofluorocarbon - CFC-12) could be applicable, but R-134a has been specifically found to be safe in these respects. Additionally, while R-134a should still be handled with care due to the potential for minor health effects at high exposure levels, it does not carry the same level of danger as suggested by claims of it being highly dangerous in any quantity