Use of halon and alternatives for fire protection in control rooms

Recent concern about the depletion of the ozone layer has forced global restrictions on the production of halon. Current regulations (both international and domestic) that will impact the cost and availability of halon fire protection are discussed. Changes in the method previously used to design and use halon systems are described. Measures taken by the fire protection industry to secure the continued availability of safe, effective fire extinguishing systems are examined. Programs using the current halon agents are discussed, including design changes, modification of the NFPA standards, and the initiation of halon recycling. New extinguishing agents are described. The combination of halon initiatives and new agent development will allow ample time for conversion of existing halon systems to the next generation of fire protection technology.<>