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Halon 1301
Q: What is Halon
1301?
Chemically - BTM (bromotrifluoromethane) 1301 CF3Br: An excellent fire
extinguishing agent (gas) currently installed in thousands of locations
throughout the world protecting sensitive electronic equipment,
typically found in computer rooms, telecommunications centers, data
processing environments, aviation and may other places.
Q: Are there
other Halons?
Yes and some are used in Fire Protection. Where could you find others? -
As refrigerant and propellant gases.
Q: What
is the Montreal Protocol?
An agreement reached by signatory nations in Montreal Canada on the 16
September 1987 (amended twice since signing). As part of the United
Nations Environmental Program, a goal has been set to initially control
and further eliminate global emissions of ozone depleting chemical
compounds.
The timescale set for the cessation of production of
these chemicals was effectively the end of 1993 in the developed world
and 2010 in developing countries.
Q: What
is the Kyoto Protocol?
Following in the footsteps of the Montreal Protocol the Kyoto Protocol
was agreed on the 10 December 1997 and committed the parties to specific
reductions in the release of Global Warming Gases. The most significant
for the fire protection industry are Carbon Dioxide and
hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs).
Q: What
is CFC (Chlorofluorocarbon)?
They are ozone-depleting substances used in fire extinguishant systems,
refrigeration and air conditioning equipment including
chlorofluorocarbons and hydrochlorofluorocarbons, collectively referred
to as CFCs. This group of chemicals has been demonstrated to be harmful
to the environment, specifically the stratospheric ozone layer.
Q: Why
does Halon need replacing?
As a CFC based gas, Halon 1301 and 1211 are ozone-depleting agents.
Their release to atmosphere during manufacture, decanting to application
cylinders and use or misuse in service has contributed to the depletion
of the ozone layer. They also have a long atmospheric life.
Q: When
does it need replacing?
The new EC Regulation 2037/2000 came into force on 1 October 2000 and
states:
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New halons cannot be used for refilling existing
systems unless for critical uses (military).
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Recovered, recycled or reclaimed halon 1301 /
1211 can only be used in existing systems until 31st December 2002.
After this date no refilling can take place.
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Mandatory decommissioning of fire extinguishing
systems with halons must be completed before 31st December 2003.
Q: What
will happen to the removed Halon 1301?
The regulations will make it compulsory to safely dispose of any Halon
recovered. This will include banking for organizations who are exempt
and have "Critical Uses" which will continue.
Q: Who will be
exempt?
Owners and users of halon with "Critical Uses" may be able to
claim exemption if broadly speaking the application is within the
aircraft industry, military / armed forces, petrochemical industry and
some marine applications, i.e., use that can claim to be connected with
national security.
Q: Is
there a "Drop In" replacement?
No, not directly but there are alternatives. See FAQ on Halon
Alternatives
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