What Is Industry Doing About Halon Use?

When the environmental effects of halon became known, industrial users of halon and fire protection professionals worked together to limit halon use and emissions. Through changes in standards and specifications, industry has virtually eliminated its use of halon for testing and training purposes. Historically, testing and training has been responsible for the majority of halon emissions. Many companies have also implemented programs to reduce false discharges due to human error and equipment failure. Safety training and awareness programs in conjunction with advances in detection and control systems have contributed greatly to reduction in emissions. Many organizations that continue to rely on halon systems for fire protection have instituted programs to identify their most critical needs. Halons that can be removed from non-critical or obsolete facilities are then recovered for use in more critical applications.

Is Halon Use Restricted?

Although some states are banning the sale of certain hand-held extinguishers for non-commercial uses, the answer is generally no. However, effective January 1, 1994, the production and importation of new halon was banned in the developed world by international agreement. Careful use and conservation of halon is, therefore, important so that existing supplies will be sufficient to meet all future needs.

For More Information

On halon alternatives and regulations, contact:

The Halon Alternatives Research Corporation (HARC)
Phone: (571) 384-7914
Fax: (571) 384-7959
E-mail: cortinaec@cox.net Web: www.harc.org

On halon recycling and banking, contact:

The Halon Recycling Corporation (HRC)
Phone: (800) 258-1283
Fax: (571) 384-7959
E-mail: cortinaec@cox.net Web: www.halon.org