Eliminating Dependency on Halons:
Self Help Guide for
Low Volume Consuming Countries
What is good for fighting fires is not always good for the
environment. In the case of halon fire extinguishing
agents, their chemical properties make them extremely
damaging to the stratospheric ozone layer, which protects
humans, animals and plants from the damaging effects of
ultraviolet solar radiation. Accordingly, the Parties to the
Montreal Protocol have agreed to phase them out worldwide under a precise timetable.
How can developing countries ensure effective fire protection while at the same time eliminating their dependency on these effective chemical agents? This guide helps
developing countries to take the initial steps in managing
their halon stocks and eventually phasing them out in line
with the Montreal Protocol schedule. It provides a step-bystep approach to designing a national strategy that
involves building awareness, setting policies, reducing
unnecessary halon uses, switching to alternative fire protection methods, and halon banking. This guide was
developed as part of UNEP’s Work Programme under the
Multilateral Fund for the Implementation of the Montreal
Protocol, in cooperation with the UNEP Halons Technical
Option Committee.
United Nations Environment Programme
Division of Technology, Industry and Economics
OzonAction Programme
39-43, quai André Citroën
75739 Paris Cedex 15 - France
Tel.: (33.1) 44 37 14 59
Fax: (33.1) 44 37 14 74
Email: [email protected]
http://www.unepie.org/ozonaction.html
Eliminating
Dependency on
Halons
Self-Help Guide for
Low Consuming Countries
United Nations Environment Programme
Division of Technology, Industry and Economics
OzonAction Programme
Multilateral Fund for the Implementation
of the Montreal Protocol
ISBN 92-807-1783-9
Copyright © 1999 UNEP
United Nations Publication
ISBN 92-807-1783-9
Trademarks
All trademarks and/or servicemarks used in this sourcebook are the
trademarks or servicemearkes of their respective companies.
Reproduction of this document
You may print, reproduce and use the information in this document
for non-commercial, personal, or educational purposes only,
provided that you (i) do not modify such information, and (ii)
include any copyright notice and disclaimer notice and other
notice(s) originally included with such information and include
these notices in all such copies.
Cartoons are used with permission of British Petroleum and the
Halons Alternatives Research Corporation (HARC).
Disclaimer
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and the
reviewers of this publication and their employees do not endorse the
performance, worker safety, or environmental acceptability of any
of the technical or policy options described therein. While the
information contained herein is believed to be accurate, it is of
necessity presented in a summary and general fashion. The decision
to implement one or more of the options or alternatives presented in
this publication is a complex one that requires careful consideration
of a wide reange of situation specific parameters, many of which
may not be addressed by this publication. Responsability for this
decision and all of its resulting impacts rests exclusively with the
individual or entity choosing to implement the option or alternative.
UNEP and the reviewers of this publication and their employees do
not make any warranty or representation, either express or implied,
with respect to its accuracy, completeness or utility; nor do they
assume any liability for events resulting from the use, or reliance
upon, any information, material or procedure described herein,
including but not limited to any claims regarding health, safety,
environmental effects, efficacy, performance, or cost made by the
sources of the information contained herein.
The reviewers have reviewed one or more interim drafts, but have
not reviewed the final version. These reviwers are not responsible
for any errors which may be presented in this publication or for any
effects which may result from such errors.
Eliminating
Dependency on
Halons
Self-Help Guide for
Low Consuming Countries
United Nations Environment Programme
Division of Technology, Industry and Economics
OzonAction Programme
Multilateral Fund for the Implementation
of the Montreal Protocol
Acknowledgements
This document was produced by UNEP Division of Technology, Industry and Economics (UNEP
TIE) as part of its OzonAction Programme under the Multilateral Fund.
The project was managed by:
Ms. Jacqueline Aloisi de Larderel, Director, UNEP TIE
Mr. Rajendra Shende, Chief, UNEP TIE Energy and OzonAction Unit
Mr. James S. Curlin, Information Officer, UNEP TIE OzonAction Programme
The document was written by:
Mr. Gary Taylor, Co-Chair, UNEP Halons Technical Options Committee
Quality review comments were provided by:
Ms. Dominique Kayser, Bilateral Programmes Officer, Environment Canada
UNEP TIE wishes to thank all contributors and their employees for helping to make this document possible.
Preface
Technical innovations in fire protection methods have contributed to great reductions in risk to
human life, business, government, national security and cultural heritage, especially during the
second half of the 20th century. The develoment and widespread adoption of effective, safe and
affordable chemical fire protection agents such as bromochlorofluorocarbons ( commonly known as
halons), have significantly helped to increase fire safety worldwide.
Unfortunately, what is good for fighting fires is not always good for the environment. In the case of
halons, their long atmospheric lifetimes and high ozone destruction potential makes them extremely
damaging to the stratospheric ozone layer, which protects humans, animals and plants from the
damaging effects of ultraviolet solar radiation. Recognizing the danger posed by the continued use
of these fire fighting agents, the world community through the Montreal Protocol has agreed on a
schedule to phase out halons.
How can countries ensure effective fire protection while at the same time eliminating dependency
on halons to protect the ozone layer? Developed countries have already made significant progress
towards meeting this goal, as evidenced by their phase out of halon production by January 1994.
Developing countries (known as “Article 5 countries”), which will now have to meet the challenge
of freezing their halon consumption by January 2002, reducing it by 50% by January 2005 and
totally phasing out by January 2010. Action towards meeting these targets must begin now.
Today halons are used by virtually every country on earth, although their use differs from one
country to another. Small countries, including island states, have unique needs related to the phase
out of halons. They import and use halons and usually do not produce fire fighting equipment. Most
of their existing halon stocks are dispersed in myriad small-sized extinguishers, bottles and systems.
Unlike their larger brethren, low-volume halon consuming countries need information and skills,
not large financial investments, in order to avoid new halon uses, identify and manage existing halon
stocks, and begin the transition to non-halon alternatives.
This guide is intended to help low-volume halon consuming countries take the initial steps in
managing their halon stocks and eventually phasing them out in line with the 2002 and 2005 target
dates. It provides a step-by-step approach to designing a national strategy that involves building
awareness, setting policies, reducing unnecessary halon uses, switching to alternative fire protection
methods, and halon banking. Although specifically written for National Ozone Units (NOUs)
within the government, the guide is also designed to be used by other members of the fire protection
community, including public fire services, fire equipment vendors, halon users, insurance
companies, customs officials, and NGOs.
Eliminating Dependency on Halons: Self Help Guide for Low Volume Consuming Countries was
developed as part of UNEP’s Work Programme under the Multilateral Fund for the Implementation
of the Montreal Protocol, in cooperation with the UNEP Halons Technical Option Committee. Both
this guide and a companion document that provides examples of halon replacement and halon
banking (Eliminating Dependency on Halons: Case Study Logbook) are available through the
UNEP TIE OzonAction Programme web site at http://www.unepie.org/ozonaction.html.
— UNEP DTIE OzonAction Programme
Contents
1. Introduction .............................................................................................................................. 1
1.1 What are halons and how do they work? ............................................................................ 1
1.2 Where are halons used?....................................................................................................... 1
1.3 Halons deplete the Ozone Layer ......................................................................................... 1
1.4 Where were halons produced? ............................................................................................ 2
1.5 International Trade .............................................................................................................. 2
1.6 Why is a Halon Management Plan important? ................................................................... 2
1.7 Montreal Protocol Article 5(1) Countries Control Measures .............................................. 2
1.8 Action plan .......................................................................................................................... 3
2. Step 1: Meet with members of the fire protection community and assess the uses of
halons in your country ....................................................................................................... 5
2.1 Structure of the fire protection community .......................................................................... 5
2.2 Country categories of halon use ........................................................................................... 6
2.3 Identifying what needs to be done ....................................................................................... 6
2.4 Estimating the total quantity of halon within the country ................................................... 7
2.5 The “Fire Protection Community” - Partners in Ozone Layer Protection. .......................... 8
3. Step 2: Build awareness of the problem of ozone depletion .................................................. 9
3.1 Speeches............................................................................................................................... 9
3.2 Simple Brochure .................................................................................................................. 9
3.3 Articles in Fire Protection Publications and Trade Publications........................................ 10
4. Step 3: Commit to phase out of halons ................................................................................. 11
5. Step 4: Reduce unnecessary emissions and uses of halons ................................................. 13
5.1 Portable Fire Extinguishers ................................................................................................ 13
5.2 Fixed Halon Systems ......................................................................................................... 13
6. Step 5: Switch to alternative fire protection methods ......................................................... 15
7. Step 6: Develop halon bank management and recycling eliminate the need for newly
manufactured halons ............................................................................................................. 17
8. Step 7: End all imports of newly manufactured halons ...................................................... 19
Annex A:
What is the Ozone Layer? (brochure) ...................................................................................... 23
Annex B:
The Ozone Layer and Halons (brochure) ................................................................................. 27
Annex C:
Sample Presentations ................................................................................................................. 31
Annex D:
Fire Protection Alternatives to Halon ....................................................................................... 45
Annex E:
Safety in Halon Decommissioning ............................................................................................. 71
Annex F:
Responsible Management of Remaining Halon Uses and Stocks .......................................... 79
Annex G:
Glossary and Definitions .......................................................................................................... 103
Annex H:
About the UNEP TIE OzonAction Programme ..................................................................... 111
Annex I:
Halons Sector Organisations ................................................................................................... 113
Annex J:
Multilateral Fund Secretariat, Implementing Agencies and UNEP Ozone Secretariat ..... 122
1.
Introduction
1.1
What are halons and how do they work?
Halons are halogenated hydrocarbons. They are colorless, odorless gases that
are electrically nonconductive, leave no residue and are low in toxicity. They
are sometimes referred to as “Clean Agents”.
There are two main types of halons: halon 1211 - used mainly in portable fire
extinguishers and halon 1301 - used mainly in fixed fire extinguishing systems.
Three things must come together at the same time to start a fire. The first
ingredient is fuel (anything that can burn), the second is oxygen (normal breathing
air is ample) and the last is an ignition source (high heat can cause a fire even
without a spark or open flame). Traditionally, to stop a fire you need to remove
heat, fuel or oxygen. Halons add a fourth dimension to fire fighting - breaking
the chemical chain reaction that allows a fire to self-sustain once started. Halons
stop the chemical reaction necessary for a fire to continue.
Halons do this at low concentrations without displacing oxygen - there is still
plenty of air for people to use in the evacuation process.
1.2
Where are halons used?
Major use for halon 1301 has been in fixed system applications in large computer
facilities, industrial control rooms, military facilities and mobile military
equipment, telephone and telecommunications equipment rooms, museum and
art gallery storage rooms and in air traffic control centers and on-board airplanes.
Halon 1301 systems are also typically found in private telephone exchanges
operated by hotels and financial services companies.
Halon 1211 has been used in portable fire extinguishers that could be located in
hotels, office buildings, libraries or even homes.
Although this is not a comprehensive list, it provides a good place to start in
assessing the halon stocks that may exist within a country.
1.3
Halons deplete the Ozone Layer
Although halons represented less than 2% of the historic production of CFCs,
their high ozone depletion potential (ODP) makes them very effective at depleting
ozone. As a result halons may be responsible for as much as 25% of the problem
of Stratospheric Ozone Layer depletion.
Page - 1
The Stratospheric Ozone Layer protects the earth from harmful Ultra Violet (UV)
radiation from the sun. A loss of Stratospheric Ozone results in an increased
amount of UV reaching the surface of the earth. Increased UV causes an increase
in skin cancers to humans and causes harm to animals and plants on land and in
the oceans.
1.4
Where were halons produced?
On January 1, 1994, production of halon 1301 and halon 1211 ceased in France,
Germany, Japan, the United Kingdom and the U.S.A., as required by the control
measures of the Montreal Protocol. India voluntarily ceased halon production
in 1998, however production of halons in Korea and China continues. India,
Korea and China are classified as Article 5(1) countries under the Montreal
Protocol and are allowed to produce halons until 2010.
1.5
International Trade
The Montreal Protocol allows trade in newly produced halons from Article 5(1)
countries only to other Article 5(1) countries. However, all countries are allowed
to trade recovered and recycled halons, providing they are of acceptable quality
to allow reuse.
1.6
Why is a Halon Management Plan important?
In the near future non-availability of halons (especially halon 1301) could make
it difficult to recharge currently installed fire protection systems. The lack of
availability could leave important facilities unprotected from the threat of fire
until a new fire protection system of another type can be installed. As recycled
halons are now becoming the only source of supply the cost of halons is rising.
Halons are the most potent of all of the ozone depleting substances (ODS). A
Halon Management Programme is a responsible way to help avoid unnecessary
venting of halons to the atmosphere.
1.7
Montreal Protocol Article 5(1) Countries Control Measures
Year Beginning
01-January-2002
01-January-2005
01-January-2010
Control Measure
Freeze of halons at 1995-97 avearage levels
Halons reduced by 50% from 1995-97 average levels
Halon consumption* phase-out
* consumtion = production + imports - exports
Page - 2
1.8
Action plan
The elimination of halon dependency is a logical, step by step procedure. A
program developed jointly with the fire protection community should include
the following elements and be implemented in the following order:
1
Meet with members of the fire protection community and assess the uses of
halons in your country and estimate the level of installed capacity
2
Build awareness of the problem of ozone depletion and the need to eliminate imports of newly produced halons
3
Commit to phase out use of halons for all but essential uses
4
Reduce unnecessary emissions and uses of halons
5
Educate users and fire equipment companies to allow for a safe transition to
alternative fire protection methods
6
Develop a halon bank management programme - eliminate the need for
newly manufactured halons
7
End imports of newly manufactured halons
The steps outlined should be followed in the order shown. The information that
you need to accomplish each step is provided in the following chapters - one
chapter for each step. Resource materials for presentations and meetings are
also provided in the Appendices of this publication.
Page - 3
Page - 4
2.
Step 1 - Meet with members of the fire protection community
and assess the uses of halons in your country
2.1
Structure of the fire protection community
Fire protection is a basic service of a community. Public fire departments have
evolved due to community efforts to protect inhabitants from the risk of personal
injury or death from fire and the risk of catastrophic loss resulting from fire. In
order to provide this basic service to communities fire brigades are organized
and basic fire protection rules are developed. The fire brigade usually has the
dual responsibility of fighting fires and ensuring that fire prevention measures
are enforced.
Where the values of property and/or equipment warrant it, many people insure
themselves against the potential catastrophic results of fire. Insurance companies
may require that measures, in addition to those required by law, be instituted in
order for the property to be eligible for insurance.
In addition some property owners, especially those with high values or those
providing an important public service may apply their own more stringent fire
protection measures.
To fight a fire equipment is required, as a result enterprises or agencies are
established to supply fire equipment.
In general fire equipment must meet certain established standards, verified by
test. Standards for such testing are therefore developed within the country or
technical standards developed externally are used. As well testing agencies may
be established within the country or the mark applied by an independent testing
agency in another country accepted.
We are therefore beginning to see an established structure that encompasses
public fire protection authorities, insurers, important users, fire equipment
suppliers, testing agencies and standards writing agencies. This structure is
typical, at least in part, in virtually every country. This structured fire protection
community has the resources and the ability to help control the use of halons.
Page - 5
2.2
Country categories of halon use
It may be practical to consider the following three categories to describe typical
situation:
A. Countries that produce halon(s) and manufacture halon based fire equipment.
B. Countries that consume (import) halon and manufacture halon based fire
equipment.
C. Countries that consume (halon) and import halon based fire equipment - “Small
Halon Consuming Countries”
Which category describes your country?
2.3
Identifying what needs to be done
For Category A Countries there will be a need for halon production sector
conversion projects. Conversion projects must be examined very carefully
because the type of enterprise that produces halon will not likely be the same
enterprise that produces alternatives.
For Category A and B Countries that produce halon fire equipment, the
manufacturing operations that fabricate halon portable fire equipment and those
that fabricate halon fixed systems equipment will likely make up for the loss of
production of halon fire equipment by manufacturing alternative based equipment.
For portable fire extinguishers the overwhelming choice has been a switch to
multipurpose dry chemical fire extinguishers. Often the same enterprise that
manufactured halon fire extinguishers also made dry chemical fire extinguishers.
For manufacturers of halon fixed systems, HFC 227ea can be used in halon type
fixed system hardware with minor modifications - more cylinders are required
to achieve equivalent areas. For inert gases and HFC 23, carbon dioxide systems
type hardware can be used. Conversion projects for fire equipment manufacturers
should be examined carefully. In some cases halon fire equipment was produced
in competition with conventional non-halon fire equipment and there may be
sufficient existing manufacturing to fulfill needs for alternatives. In fact, funding
could create an unfair situation where an existing manufacturer of alternatives,
based on private funding is suddenly faced with a new competitor whose costs
have been subsidized.
For Category C countries the problem is how to recharge existing halon 1301
based fire equipment that has been used to extinguish a fire or requires refill as
the result of discharge from a cause other than a fire. This indicates a need for a
management plan for the existing halons within the country. For halon 1211,
usually contained in portable fire extinguishers, the issue is somewhat simpler.
Page - 6
Once used, the portable fire extinguisher should not be re-charged, as there are
adequate alternatives available. Usually it costs less to replace a used halon
1211 fire extinguisher than it would to re-charge it. This guide is specifically
targeted to help Category C countries develop a halon management programme.
2.4
Estimating the total quantity of halon within the country
Use of import data for bulk consumption of halons as a basis for categorizing
countries may result in an erroneous basis for developing a viable country
programme. Many countries may appear to be “small” however they may have
very important halon installations that were imported pre-charged and are used
to provide fire protection for very important installations such as major computer
installations, telephone exchanges, power generating facilities, industrial control
rooms and military equipment/facilities. As a result, although their imports of
bulk halon may have been quite small, their installed system base (halon 1301
bank) and holdings of portable halon extinguishers (halon 1211 bank) may be
larger than their bulk import data would reflect.
This idea of categorizing “Small Halon Consuming Countries” based on import
data of bulk halon will often be an incorrect basis for an assumption, because in
all cases of Category C countries (see above) bulk imports will be much less
than halon shipped into the country in fire equipment and for the purposes of
Import it would not be classified as a bulk import. The Montreal Protocol does
not classify halon contained in fire equipment as a bulk import and therefore
does not require reporting of imports of halon contained in fire equipment.
In summary, much of the data that would be used to determine consumption as
defined by the Montreal Protocol could be seriously flawed because it will not
reflect the actual use or stocks held within the country.
A rule of thumb that can be used to estimate the installed base of fire equipment
that uses halons would be to consider that all bulk imports are used to service
existing halon fire equipment. Approximately 5% of the installed base is
expended annually due to fires, etc. As such annual bulk imports probably
represent about 5% of the installed base. On this basis the installed base can be
estimated by multiplying the annual import figure for the year of largest import
times 20. The resultant figure will provide an order of magnitude estimate of the
total quantity of halon contained in installed fire equipment in the country. This
estimate should be discussed with members of the fire protection community
within the country as they will have the best knowledge of how and where halons
were and are being used.
Page - 7
2.5
The “Fire Protection Community” - Partners in Ozone Layer Protection.
In all countries one or more of the following organizations will exist:
•
National fire service
•
National standards writing organization
•
National building and fire code organization
•
National fire protection association
•
Trade association of fire equipment companies
•
Fire insurance companies
Contacting these organizations would be an appropriate first step in establishing
a national program to manage halons within the country. Then contact major
users of halons (they were identified in the Introduction to this guide). It is
likely that the fire service, insurers and fire equipment companies will be able to
assist in identifying the major halon users.
The objective of your first meeting will be to estimate the magnitude of the
existing halon within the country and develop a strategy to manage the existing
halons and eliminate any need for further imports of newly manufactured halons.
You might like to share the Halon Ozone Awareness Brochure, found in Appendix
A, with the group you meet with from the fire protection community. The
brochure could serve as a good start in raising awareness.
Page - 8
3.
Step 2:
Build awareness of the problem of ozone depletion
Fire protection equipment users within the country must be made aware that in
addition to posing an environmental threat, halon based fire protection equipment
is a poor investment because it will be insupportable in the future. Therefore the
first step is to build awareness within the fire protection community. This can be
accomplished by informing the public fire service, insurers, fire equipment
manufacturers and suppliers, standards writing organizations, testing agencies
and halon users.
A campaign to create awareness among halon users and fire equipment companies
can be accomplished by:
•
speeches and presentations at fire protection conferences
•
a simple brochure that can be mailed to the customers of fire equipment
companies
•
articles in fire protection publications
•
articles in trade publications applicable to typical halon users
Make contact with organization in your country that determines what requirements
are necessary to comply with the Building and Fire Code. As well determine
what technical standards may contain existing legal requirements relating to use
of halons. For example are there legal requirements to use halons for certain
applications? If so it is time to begin work on revising these requirements.
3.1
Speeches
At this stage the goal is to build awareness of the threat to the ozone layer posed
by halons. A brief presentation suitable for presentation to fire department
personnel, insurance company employees, fire equipment companies and major
users is provided in the resource section of this guide. A sample presentation
will be found in Appendix C.
3.2
Simple Brochure
An example of a single page brochure is provided in Appendix B of this guide.
The brochure folds in three and can be easily inserted into an envelope. In other
countries this brochure has been printed and provided to the fire equipment
companies and insurers. These organizations can include the simple brochure
with normal mailings to their customers. As such no added cost for mailing is
Page - 9
required.
3.3
Articles in Fire Protection Publications and Trade Publications
Articles in fire protection publications and trade publications directed at major
users groups have been a useful means of building awareness. You may wish to
contact the fire protection organisations listed in Appendix I of this publication
to obtain articles that have been published in other countries.
Page - 10
4.
Step 3:
Commit to phase out of halons
It would now be wise for the fire protection community and the national
government to agree to cap halon availability at existing levels, as soon as
possible. It would also be wise to agree to a schedule to reduce availability of
halons annually and eliminate dependency on newly produced halons in as timely
a manner as feasible.
In order to achieve this goal a steering group, made up of stakeholders will be
helpful. The steering group should represent a balance of interests and include
representation from the following interest groups:
•
Public fire service
•
Fire equipment trade association
•
Insurance company
•
Halon user company
•
Environmental advocacy groups (NGOs)
•
Environment Ministry
•
Customs officials
The Steering Group should be asked to put forward a plan to achieve phaseout
of halon imports in a timely manner. In conjunction with the Fire Equipment
industry a Code of Practice should be developed and agreed upon by all members
of the Steering Committee. An example of such a Code of Practice is provided
in Appendix F of this guide.
The plan to be developed by the Steering Committee should consider the
following:
•
Determine the likely applications where halons have been used within the
country and prepare an estimate of the size of the installed base of both
halon 1211 and halon 1301.
•
Determine whether the installed capacity/import levels warrant a national
halon management plan or whether coordinating halon 1301 recovery and
recycle would be best accomplished by cooperating with another country in
your region.
Page - 11
•
Examine any changes in regulations that will reduce unnecessary emissions
of halons. This may include requirements for internal inspection of cylinders,
discharge test and training regulations, etc. In some cases there may be
regulations that require the installation of halon fire equipment. Work with
the appropriate organizations such as standards writers, public fire protection
authorities to ensure that regulations do not require unnecessary discharge
or use.
•
Develop preliminary plans for recycling including who will operate
equipment, who will act as a clearinghouse, how cost recovery will be
achieved, how people will be advised of the fact that recycled halons will be
available and how they will know who to contact to either provide or receive
halons. Develop simple brochures to be distributed by trade associations
and industry groups. Develop labels to be applied to halon fire equipment to
advise users to recycle their halon when they no longer require the equipment.
Provide news releases to trade magazines to explain to users what action is
being taken.
•
Hold workshops to explain the problem of ozone depletion and the efforts
made by the Fire Protection Community as represented by the members of
the steering group to reduce use and emissions and explain plans for recycling
of halons. The cost of these workshops can be recovered by charging a
nominal admission fee. If these workshops are held to coincide with an
announcement about the import phase-out schedule users and fire equipment
companies will be motivated to attend. The workshops can be used to educate
users about alternatives that can be used. This will also provide a forum for
companies that offer alternatives to halons.
•
Develop final plans for halon banking and establish a Halon Recycling
Information Clearinghouse. Cost recovery can be achieved by charging sellers
and buyers of halons a small fee for putting them in contact with each other.
Conduct engineering training programmes for fire equipment companies, large
users, specifiers, fire authorities and loss prevention engineers to provide them
with the knowledge to implement alternatives safely and effectively. In many
cases fire equipment companies and insurance company loss prevention
engineering departments will be able to assist in finding knowledgeable
instructors.
Page - 12
5.
Step 4:
Reduce unnecessary emissions and uses of halons
Now is the time to begin implementation of the plan developed by the Steering
Committee.
An obvious first step is to reduce unnecessary atmospheric emissions of halons.
The following may be of assistance in accomplishing this:
5.1
Portable Fire Extinguishers
Change regulations to ensure that halon 1211 portable fire extinguishers are not
used to achieve compliance with legal fire protection requirements, this will
encourage use only for cases where a clean fire extinguishing agent is actually
required. Guidance on selection of alternatives for halon 1211 portable fire
extinguishers is provided in Appendix D of this guide.
Ensure that during maintenance and when internal inspection of portable fire
equipment is required, recycling equipment is used to capture and recycle halon
1211. The cost of this equipment can be recovered by a small increase in the
charge to service halon 1211 fire extinguishers.
5.2
Fixed Halon Systems
Discharge testing of halon systems can be virtually eliminated by use of a door
fan test to check ability of the protected enclosure to contain the halon and by
use of other non-destructive testing procedures.
Improved detection systems and maintenance procedures have been shown to
reduce unnecessary emissions of halon resulting from leakage and inadvertent
discharge.
Use alternatives wherever possible. Guidance regarding available alternatives
for halon 1301 fixed systems is provided in Appendix D of this guide.
The remainder of the plan developed by the Steering Committee should now be
implemented and the agreed upon schedule to restrict halon imports should begin.
The import restriction schedule that could be followed might look like this:
Page - 13
•
First year - immediate freeze at previous year import levels (base level).
Achieve this by allocating tradable import rights for import of newly produced
halons to importers of record for equivalent quantities of import for previous
year. Except for equipment that would qualify as an essential, use ban import
of all fire equipment that contains halons.
•
Second year - reduce import rights by 50%
•
Third year - reduce import rights to 0.
Page - 14
6.
Step 5:
Switch to alternative fire protection methods
The process of eliminating halon dependency can begin by carefully considering
each proposed use of halon fire fighting equipment.
The following criteria should be satisfied before reaching the conclusion that a
halon use is essential:
A critical need must exist to minimize damage due to fire, explosions or
extinguishing agent application, which would otherwise result in serious
impairment of an essential service to society, or pose an unacceptable threat
to life, the environment, or national security
and
All other appropriate fire protection measures have been taken.
It should be noted that “critical needs” does not mean all uses. Users should
recognize that existing stocks of halons are a finite fire protection asset. This
asset must be used wisely.
In the developed countries, dependency on newly produced halons has been
eliminated without a replacement chemical for halon 1211. For most applications,
conventional alternatives such as water, dry powder and carbon dioxide provide
adequate fire protection capability. The most widely used alternative for halon
1211 portable fire extinguishers are multipurpose dry chemical fire extinguishers.
For fixed system applications, in the majority of cases where halons had
traditionally been used, early warning fire detection systems combined with
conventional alternative fire protection systems such as water sprinklers and
carbon dioxide systems have been the alternate of choice. Where a municipal
water supply is available, the cost of a conventional sprinkler system is lower
than halon protection. A complete discussion of new technology alternatives
can be found in Appendix D of this guide.
Current information regarding alternatives for halon 1211 portable fire
extinguishers and halon 1301 fixed systems is maintained at the Halons section
of the TEAP WebSite: http:/www.teap.org
It is now the time to work with the Steering Group to evaluate the types of
alternatives that would be applicable for use within the country. Some nonArticle 5(1) countries have placed restrictions on use of gaseous halocarbon
alternatives due to environmental concerns related to atmospheric lifetime and
global warming potential. Continue with simple brochures and workshops to
keep users and other stakeholders advised of progress and developments.
Page - 15
Page - 16
7.
Step 6: Develop halon bank management and recycling
eliminate the need for newly manufactured halons
•
Develop final plans for halon banking and acquire halon a commercially
available database computer program, such as FileMaker Pro, to manage the
Halon Information Clearinghouse. Establish the procedures necessary to
export recovered halons to a regional recycling centre of your choice.
Guidance on such procedures is provided in Appendix E of this guide. At
present such recycling centres exist in many countries including Venezuela,
Canada, the United States of America, and the United Kingdom. For a current
list of National Halon Management Centres and contact information, contact
UNEP/TIE in Paris. For more information regarding Halon Management
see Appendix F of this guide.
•
Conduct engineering training programmes for fire equipment companies,
large users, specifiers, fire authorities and loss prevention engineers to provide
them with the knowledge to implement alternatives safely and effectively.
These programmes can be developed within the country by the fire equipment
industry. The Halon Alternatives Research Corporation (HARC) also offers
a training programme.
Halon Alternatives Research Corporation (HARC)
2111 Wilson Boulevard
Suite 850
Arlington, Virginia 22201
Tel: (1) 703 524 6636
Fax: (1) 703 243 2874
Email: [email protected]
Web Site: http://www.harc.org
•
Hold large scale workshops to explain the final halon banking and recycling
programme and provide users with an overview of alternatives.
•
Follow up with Steering Group to continue technology transfer and monitor
the effectiveness of the programme.
Page - 17
Page - 18
8.
Step 7:
End all imports of newly manufactured halons
This is the final goal. If you have reached this point ahead of schedule congratulations! Perhaps you would like to recognize the people who were
instrumental in achieving this success. A small award at a final workshop would
be a very good way to publicly recognize the individuals who were most helpful.
A celebration of this achievement will also help solidify the ongoing commitment
to maintain a successful program and continue to protect the ozone layer. Perhaps
the lessons that have been learned can be useful in working with other use sectors
of Ozone Depleting Substances - maybe you have a team to help explain that
eliminating dependency on ODS is an achievable goal.
Page - 19
Page - 20
A
Four Page Brochure
The following brochure can be used as a simple presentation or it can be used
as a brochure. The brochure can be printed on either A4 paper or North
American letter size paper. Electronic files of the graphic images and text are
available in either Microsoft Word or Adobe Pagemaker format at:
ftp://UNEP:[email protected]
Page - 21
Page - 22
What is
the Ozone
Layer ?
Ozone is a naturally occurring gas found
in the earth’s atmosphere. At the outer
edge of the atmosphere there is a thin
layer of ozone gas that is critical to life
on earth. It is the stratospheric ozone
layer. This layer protects us from the
harmful rays of the sun. If it weren’t for
the ozone layer, we’d get wicked
sunburns, wreck our eyes and kill our
plants.
What Causes Reductions of the Ozone
Layer?
When certain chemicals used on earth escape into the atmosphere they are
broken down by solar radiation and release chlorine and bromine atoms which, in
a chain reaction, destroy ozone molecules. This reaction occurs more frequently
than natural ozone replenishment, resulting in a thinning of the ozone layer.
Is The Ozone Layer Threatened?
Atmospheric measurements tell us that the ozone layer is getting thinner, and
that at certain times of the year an ozone layer “hole” appears over Antarctica.
Some people believe that this reduction is due to solar or volcanic activity, but
most scientists believe that certain man-made chemicals are major contributors
to the problem. These chemicals include the chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) found
in refrigerators, solvents and blowing agents used for foams, and the halons
used for fire fighting.
Page - 23
Wha t Are H alons And How Do T hey
Wo rk?
Halons are halogenated hydrocarbons. They are colorless, odorless gases that
are electrically nonconductive, leave no re sidue a nd are l ow in toxicity.
Ther e are two main ty pes of halons: halon 1211 - used mainly in portabl e fire
extinguisher s and halon 13 01 - used mai nly in fixed fire extinguishing sys tems.
Thre e things must come t ogether at the same time to start a fire. The first
ingre dient is fuel (a nything that can burn), the second is oxygen (n ormal
breathing air i s amp le) an d the last is an ign ition source (high he at can cause a
fire even wi thout a spark or open flame) . Trad itiona lly, to stop a fire you need to
rem ove on e side of the fire triangle - heat, fuel or oxygen. Ha lons add a fourth
dimen sion to fire fighting - br eaking the chemi cal chain rea ction that allows a fire
to self-sustain on ce started. Halons stop the chemi cal rea ction ne cess ary for a
fire to continue. Halons do this at low concentrations without displacing o xygen ther e is still pl enty of air for people to use in th e evacuation pr ocess.
How Da maging Are Halons?
Although halons repre sented less than 2% of the prod uction of CFCs, their high
ozone depletion potential (ODP) ma kes them very effective at depleting ozone.
As a result halon s may be responsible for as much as 25% of the pro blem of
ozone de pletion
Page - 24
Who Uses Halons?
Major use for halon 1301 has been in fixed system applications in Comp uter
Facilities operated by businesses, the Petroleum and Chemical Industry,
Defense, Telephone and Telecommu nications, Financial Sector, Aviation,
Cultural Heritage, Power Generation and Distribution and Industrial Control
Rooms. Halon systems are
also typically found in private
telephone exchanges operated
by hotels and financial services
companies.
Halon 1211 has been used in
portable fire extinguishers that
could be located in hotels,
office buildings, libraries and
museums, governmen t buildings, public buildings, industrial facilities or even
homes.
Halons were a rel atively expensive fire extinguishing me ans and were ge nerally
used to protect valuable equipment. Although this is not an inclusive list, it
provides a good p lace to start in assessing the halon stocks t hat ma y exist within
a country.
What Alternatives Are There?
There are a numb er of traditional fire extinguishing agents such as water, carbon
dioxide, dry chemicals and foam that are go od alternatives to halons for many
applications. In addition, recent research has led to the comm ercialization of
new non-ozone d epleting halocarbon compounds, inert gas mixtures, water mist
or fogging systems and powdered aerosols. The growing list of alternatives to
halons, in conjunction w ith advanced de tection and use of fire resistant materials,
provides protection for all but the most exotic of the ha zards that were
traditionally protected with halons.
What Is Industry In Many Countries
Doing About Halon Use?
When the environmen tal effects of halons became known, industrial users of
halons and fire pro tection pro fessionals worked together to limit halon u se and
emissions. Through changes in standards and specifications, industry has
virtually eliminated its use of halons for testing and training - previously a major
source of halon emissions. Fire equipment service companies have impro ved
training of service personnel to reduce accidental discharges of halon 13 01
systems and special equipment has been d eveloped to recover halon 12 11 wh en
Page - 25
identify their most critical needs. Halons that can be remo ved from non-critical or
obsolete facilities are then recovered for use in more critical applications.
Fire equipment service companies have developed “Codes of Practice” to help
achieve environmental objectives.
Can Halons Be Recycled?
Unlike aluminum cans or
newspapers, once halon is released it
is virtually impossible to recover. If
halon is still contained in cylinders
retired from service or if a container is
leaking, the halon can be recovered
for reuse. In fact some fire
equipment companies and users
have been doing this for many years,
long before halon emissions were
identified as an environmental
problem. In many countries the fire equipment industry and major users have
established halon banks to make it possible for companies that need halons to
obtain them from companies that no longer re quire their halons. Recycling
facilities that can refurbish recovered halons to their original manufactured quality
are now operating in many countries. Under certain conditions halons from one
country can be shipped to another for this refurbishment procedure to be
undertaken.
Need More Information?
The Halons Technical Options Comm ittee and the United
Nations Environment Programme can both provide additional
technical information to assist you. The Halons Technical
Options Committee provides current, impartial information
about new alternatives, halon banking and many of the other
technical issues that must be dealt with in making a fire safe
transition away from halons. The Halons Technical Options
Committee provides this information over the Internet . The
Internet address for the Halons Technical Options Committee
is: http://www.teap.org
Thanks to British Petroleum and HARC - the Halon Alternatives Research Corporation,
for use of the Dinosaur characters.
Page - 26
B
Simple Brochure
The simple brochure that follows can be printed on either A4 or North
American letter size paper. The tri-fold brochure can be easily included with a
regular mailing to customers of fire protection equipment companies and other
halon users. Electronic files of the graphic images and text in Word and
Adobe PageMaker are available over the internet from:
ftp://UNEP:[email protected]
Page - 27
Page - 28
HALONS
Halons are low-toxicity, chemically stable
compounds that have been used extensively for
fire and explosion suppression and enclosure
inertion for the past 20 years. Halon 1211 is a
liquid streaming agent used mainly in hand-held
fire extinguishers, and halon 1301 is a gaseous
agent used mainly in total flooding extinguishing
systems.
OUR THREATENED OZONE LAYER
The stratospheric ozone layer lies at the edge of the
earth’s atmosphere, and shields the earth and its
inhabitants from harmful ultraviolet radiation
generated by the sun. Recent scientific evidence
indicates that man-made chemicals, including
halons, are depleting ozone in the stratosphere. If
the loss continues it may lead to an increase in skin
cancer and cataracts, and could damage the human
immune system and disrupt crop production. For
this reason, emissions of halon should be
eliminated or minimized.
Page - 29
PROTECTING THE OZONE LAYER
Much of the damage to the ozone layer can be
prevented if users stop relying on haloncontaining equipment for training and testing. The
fire protection community has already responded
to this by eliminating discharge testing using
halon through standards, research, and field
practice. Fire suppression systems and equipment
should be serviced and maintained on a regular
basis to avoid leaks, false discharges, and other
unnecessary emissions.
HALON PRODUCTION HAS ENDED
Recognizing that ozone depletion is a serious
issue and that the halons currently contained in
fire equipment in XXXXX can be reused to meet
important fire protection applications, XXXXX
has voluntarily stopped the import of newly
produced halons. As well, under the terms of the
Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the
Ozone Layer, halon production has ceased in the
United States, United Kingdom, Germany, France
and Japan.
HALONS SHOULD BE RECYCLED
XXXXX, along with other parties to the
Montreal Protocol, encourages the recovery of
halons to meet critical fire protection needs. It is
clear that recycled halon will be necessary to
bridge the gap between the end of halon
production and the commercial availability of
like replacements, and to provide for critical
uses for which satisfactory substitutes or
alternative protection measures cannot be found.
To accelerate establishment of a national
recycling program, YYYYY is working with the
fire protection industry to develop halon
recycling and management of the bank of
existing halons in XXXXX.
FIRE EQUIPMENT COMPANIES
Most halon systems in use today were
purchased, installed, and are serviced by fire
equipment distributors. The simplest way to
assure proper recycling of halon is to reverse this
process. If you have a halon fire suppression
system that is being replaced, or is protecting a
facility that is being closed, it is important that
you contact your fire equipment distributor for
assistance in achieving best use of your existing
halon or for helping you ensure that the halon is
used to meet another organizations critical fire
protection needs. YYYY can assist you in
locating your nearest fire equipment distributor.
RECYCLING TECHNOLOGY AND
EQUIPMENT
Equipment to recycle both halon 1211 and halon
1301 is currently in use in XXXXX. Halons can
be refurbished to meet International Standards
for purity.
I HAVE HALON
FIRE EXTINGUISHERS WHAT SHOULD I DO?
Halon 1211 is an excellent, clean fire extinguishing
agent. You may continue to use portable fire
extinguishers that contain halon 1211. In XXXXX,
technical requirements to test the extinguisher every
twelve years are required for your safety. When this
test is required please ensure that the company who
will service your halon fire extinguisher will ensure
that the halon is recovered and reused in your fire
extinguisher. Proper service is important for your
safety and the safety of the ozone layer. If you use
your halon fire extinguisher to put out a fire, do not
recharge the extinguisher, replace it with another type
of fire extinguisher. Your fire equipment company is
skilled in helping you make the correct choice to
meet your needs.
I HAVE HALON FIXED FIRE PROTECTION
SYSTEMS - WHAT SHOULD I DO?
If your facilities are protected by halon fire
suppression systems, please ensure that the system is
professionally maintained by a qualified fire
protection company on a regular basis. You are
allowed to continue to use your halon 1301 fixed
systems to protect the important applications where
they are currently installed. If available halon 1301
can also be used to meet certain critical fire
protection needs where substitutes are not yet
available and/or alternative fire protection measures
would not provide adequate protection. Examples are
use on-board aircraft and other applications where
flammable liquids or gases would likely be involved
in a fire within an enclosed space.
If the facility that you have that is
protected with a halon system is
being abandoned or dismantled
please contact a fire equipment
company to ensure that your halon
1301 is recycled to meet the critical
fire protection needs of another user.
WHAT CAN THE PUBLIC DO TO PROTECT
THE OZONE LAYER
Check your home and garage to see what type of
portable extinguisher you have. Do you have a
halon extinguisher? Don’t worry - the halon
causes no damage while it is in its container.
However, don’t discharge it needlessly, and
regularly check the container for leaks. If you need
to buy a new fire extinguisher or replace a halon
fire extinguisher that has been used consider
available alternatives which are also effective.
Page - 30
NEED MORE HELP?
For more information on eliminating halon use and
emissions, and on halon recycling and
extinguisher disposal contact:
Your fire equipment company or
YYYYY.
SUPPORT FOR RECYCLING & BANKING
Halon recycling and banking is endorsed by the
following organizations around the world:
AFESA
Aircraft Industry Association (AIA)
Atochem
CETESB (Brasil)
COVENIN of Venezuela
Du Pont
Environment Canada
Environmental Defense Fund (EDF)
Factory Mutual Insurance
U.S.A. Fire Equipment Manufacturers Association
(FEMA)
U.S.A. Fire Suppression Systems Association (FSSA)
FONDOIN of Venezuela
Friends of the Earth
Great Lakes Chemical Corporation
Halon Alternatives Research Corporation
Industrial Risk Insurers
ICI Americas, Inc.
Kali-Chemie Corporation
National Aeronautics and Space Administration
(NASA)
U.S.A. National Association of Fire Equipment
Distributors (NAFED)
National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)
Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC)
North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO)
Underwriters Laboratories (UL)
United Nations Development Programme
United Nations Environment Programme
United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
United States Air Force (USAF)
United States Army (USA)
United States Coast Guard (USCG)
United States Navy (USN)
Protect
the
Ozone Layer
PRINTED COURTESY OF:
Recycle
Halons
C
Presentation
This is a presentation that can be used to introduce and explain the halon/
ozone issue. Other presentations are available in Microsoft PowerPoint
format from:
ftp://UNEP:[email protected]
Page - 31
Page - 32
Page - 33
Halons and the Environment
Halon Use
Although halons may be the most suitable fire
extinguishants for many applications, in most cases,
adequate fire fighting capability can be provided by
other means.
Page - 34
For the very small number of cases where halonshalons
are are
bebe
used.
required, recycled halons
halonscancan
used.
There is therefore no technical justification for
continued import of newly produced halons
halons
Halon Use
Page - 35
Halons are the most potent destroyers of ozone
of all substances controlled by the
Montreal Protocol
3
New use of halons
can be eliminated by:
Page - 36
X
X
X
X
X
X
Building awareness of the ozone depletion problem
Committing to phase out use of new halonhalon
Reducing unnecessary emissions and uses of halonshalons
Switching to alternative fire protection methods
Developing halon bank management and recycling
Eliminating need for newly manufactured halonshalons
Awareness
Existing institutions can help build awareness of the
problem of Ozone Depletion
X National Standards Organizations
Page - 37
X Fire Equipment Company Trade Associations
X Fire Departments
5
Reducing Use and Emissions
Page - 38
Changes in Fire Protection Technical Standards and
Requirements can help to reduce unnecessary use
and emissions.
The fire equipment companies can develop a
Code of Practice to help reduce emissions.
6
Switch to Alternative Methods
Fixed Fire Protection Systems
Examples of other alternative, fixed fire protection
systems are:
Page - 39
Monitored Detection
Water sprinkler systems
Fine water mist systems
Carbon dioxide systems
Foam systems
Dry powder systems
Inert gas systems
Halocarbon alternatives
7
Switch to Alternative Methods
Portable Fire Extinguishers
The most widely used alternative for halon portable
halon
fire extinguishers is multipurpose dry chemical.
portable
Page - 40
Other proven alternatives include water and
carbon dioxide.
A replacement chemical for halon 1211
halon
has 1211 has
not been required.
8
Switch to Alternative Methods
Readily Available Alternatives
Page - 41
The use of existing, conventional fire protection
systems has been a key factor in enabling the
phase out of new use of halon
halon .
Halon recycling
Halon 1211
1211should
shouldbeberecovered
recoveredand
andreused
reused
when an internal inspection of a portable
fire extinguisher is required
X
Halon 1301
1301should
shouldbe
berecovered
recoveredand
andmade
made
available for reuse when an installation
reaches the end of useful life
Page - 42
X
Halon recycling
Put those who need halon
haloninincontact
contactwith
withthose
thosewho
who
have halon .
Page - 43
Establish a clearinghouse organization to represent
The country internationally as the national organization
recognized by UNEP IE.
Eliminating the need for new halon
halon
Page - 44
phase
The will and commitment to accomplish a halonhalon
phase
p
out will come from the Fire Protection Community.
In every country the Fire Protection Community has
led the way in eliminating the use of Ozone Depleting
Substances.
D
Fire Protection Alternatives to Halon
D.1
Introduction
The phase-out of halon production has had a dramatic impact on the fire and
explosion protection industry. Halons were clean, non-conductive, safe for
people, and highly effective. Replacing them in their many applications continues
to present challenges for fire protection professionals.
The use of traditional non-halon fire protection materials has been promoted as
a means of reducing halon use. The degree to which these traditional not-inkind alternatives successfully replace halon is driven by the details of the hazard
being protected, the characteristics of the alternative method, and the risk
management philosophy of the user.
Clean agent replacement chemicals and new “not-in-kind” alternative
technologies have been introduced at a rapid pace. The purpose of this chapter
is to provide a brief review of the types of alternatives that are available, including
information on physical and chemical characteristics, fire protection capabilities,
toxicity, and key environmental parameters.
As this report is being published, there are three significant changes being
considered by standards making organizations that - if adopted - will affect some
of the measures of performance and guidelines for use of the agents described in
this chapter. These include:
•
The consideration of new testing protocol(s) to measure the performance of
gaseous halon alternatives on Class A fires independent of the performance
of the agents in the Class B cup burner. Preliminary Class A fire tests indicate
that halocarbon agent concentrations lower than the heptane cup burner value
plus the 20% factor of safety will likely be found adequate for Class A fires
for all the halocarbon agents listed in this report.
•
The development of new procedures for determining safe personnel exposure
guidelines (the PBPK or physiologically based pharmacokinetic model) where
exposure time is considered in addition to the NOAEL and LOAEL values.
•
The serious debate, on an international basis, on whether the minimum 20%
safety factor mandated for these agents is adequate or should it be increased
- perhaps to 30%.
The document, Tech Note #1 at the Halons - Reports section of the TEAP Web
Site (http://www.teap.org) provides current information regarding halon
alternatives and their characteristics. This document will be updated in the future
Page - 45
to continue to provide the most current information regarding new technology
halon alternatives.
The types of new technology alternatives currently include the following:
Table D.1
New Technology Halon Alternatives
Total Flooding Gaseous Alternatives
Halocarbons
HCFC:
HFC:
PFC:
FIC:
Inert Gases
Nitogen:
Argon:
Nitrogen/argon blend:
Nitrogen/argon/CO2 blend:
Water Mist Technologies
Single Fluid, Low/Moderate Pressure
(3 - < 50 bar)
Single Fluid, High Pressure
(> 50 bar)
Dual Fluid Systems
Flashing Liquid Systems
Inert Gas Generators
Fine Particulate Aerosols
Streaming Agents
HCFC:
HFC:
PFC:
D.2
Alternatives for Fixed Systems
D.2.1
Halocarbon Agents
Composition
HCFC Blend A, HCFC 124
HFC-23, HFC-125, HFC-227ea, HFC-236fa
FC-3-1-10, FC-2-1-8
FIC-13I1
IG-10
IG-01
IG-55
IG-541
Manufacturer
Grinnell, Kidde, GW Sprinkler, and Total Walther
Marioff, Reliable, Ultra Fog, Semco, and Unifog
Securiplex, ADA Technologies, Kidde and Ginge Kerr (BP)
MicroMist Ltd.
Manufacturer
ICI and Primex
Manufacturer
Kidde, Powsus, Spectrex, Russian Research Institute
for Applied Chemistry, Soyz Association,
Intertexnolog Assoc., and Dynamit-Nobel
Composition
HCFC Blend B, HCFC Blend E, HCFC-124
HFC: HFC-227ea, HFC-236fa
PFC: FC-5-1-14
These agents share several common characteristics, with the details varying
between chemicals. These common characteristics include the following:
1. All are electrically non-conductive;
2. All are clean agents; they vaporise readily and leave no residue;
3. All are stored as liquefied compressed gases;
4. All can be stored and discharged from fire protection system hardware that is
similar to that used for halon 1301;
5. All (except HFC-23) use nitrogen super-pressurisation for discharge purposes;
Page - 46
6. All (except CF3I) are less efficient fire extinguishants than halon 1301 in
terms of storage volume and agent weight. The use of most of these agents
requires increased storage capacity;
7. All are either permanent gases after discharge or are liquefied compressed
gases which vaporise upon discharge (except HCFC Blend A which consists
of 3.75% of a non-volatile liquid). Many require additional care relative to
nozzle design and mixing;
8. All (except CF3I) produce more decomposition products (primarily HF) than
halon 1301 given similar fire type, fire size, and discharge time; and
9. All are more expensive at present than halon 1301 on a weight (mass) basis.
These agents differ widely in the areas of toxicity, environmental impact, storage
weight and volume requirements, cost, and availability of approved system
hardware. Each of these categories will be discussed for each agent in the
following sections.
D.2.1.1
Toxicity
Table D.2.1(b) summarises the toxicity information available for each chemical.
The NOAEL is the No Observed Adverse Effect Level. This is the concentration
at which no adverse effect was observed in the test specimen. The LOAEL is
the Lowest Observed Adverse Effect Level. This is the lowest concentration at
which an adverse effect was observed. For halocarbon agents, these levels are
usually driven by the cardio-sensitisation level of the agent. Several compounds
including HFC-23 and FC-3-1-10 have little or no cardio-toxicity. Historically,
it has been recommended that halon replacement agents should not normally be
used at concentrations above the NOAEL in occupied areas. Use of agents up to
the LOAEL has been permitted in occupied areas if adequate time delays and
pre-discharge alarms were provided and time required for escape was short.
New recommendations have been proposed that would allow use at or above the
LOAEL based on the use of a physiologically-based pharmocokinetic (PB-PK)
model.
D.2.1.2
Environmental Factors
The primary environmental factors to be considered for these agents are ozonedepletion potential (ODP), global-warming potential (GWP), and atmospheric
lifetime, and these are summarised in Tables D.2.1(c). It is important to select
the fire protection choice with the lowest environmental impact that will
adequately provide the necessary fire protection performance for the specific
application. The use of any synthetic compound that accumulates in the
atmosphere carries some potential risk with regard to atmospheric equilibrium
changes. PFCs, in particular, represent an unusually severe potential
environmental impact due to the combination of extremely long atmospheric
Page - 47
lifetime and high GWP.
International agreements and individual actions by national governments may
affect future availability of these compounds and subsequent support for installed
fire protection systems that utilise them. Some examples are presented below:
•
HCFCs are scheduled for a production and consumption phase-out under
the Montreal Protocol in 2020-2030 in developed countries and 2040 in
developing countries. It is the presumption of the Multilateral Fund that
Article 5(1) countries should avoid a transition policy that includes HCFC
based halon alternatives.
•
Currently the European Union restricts fire protection usage of HCFCs.
•
HFCs and PFCs are included in the basket of six gases. The other four gases
are; SF6, carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide. Flexible and binding
emission reduction targets were agreed as part of the Kyoto Protocol to the
United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). The
Kyoto Protocol requires developed countries to reduce their aggregate
emissions of the six gases by an average of 5% below 1990 levels. HFCs
and PFCs represent less than 2% of current greenhouse gas emissions on a
carbon-equivalency basis.
•
The United States allows use of PFCs only when no other agent or engineering
approach will meet the fire protection need.
Page - 48
Table D.2.1 (a)
Halocarbon Gaseous Agents for Fixed Systems
Physical Properties
Page - 49
Generic Name
Trade Name Chemical Composition
Halon 1301
HCFC Blend A
(HCFC-22)
(HCFC-124)
(HCFC-123)
(isopro penyl-1methylcyclohexane)
HCFC-124
HFC-23
HFC-125
HFC-227ea
HFC-236fa
FC-2-1-8
FC-3-1-10
FIC-13I1
BTM
NAF S-III
FE-24
FE-13
FE-25
FM-200
FE-36
CEA-308
CEA-410
Triodide
LCG* = Liquified Compressed Gas
LIQ** = Liquid
Group
Stored
Vapour pressure
k1,
k2,
Vapour Density Liquid Density
Agent State
bars @ 20º C m3/kg (9) m3/kg/deg C (9) @ 20º C (kg/m3) @ 20º C (kg/m3
LCG*
12.90
0.1478
0.00057
6.283
1,572
CF3Br
Halon
Component
Weight % HCFC
CHClF2
82%
LCG*: 91.5%
CHClFCF 3
9.50%
LIQ**: 8.5%
CHCl2CF3
4.75%
C10H16
3.75%
CHClFCF 3
CHF 3
CF 3CHF 2
CF3CHFCF 3
CF 3CH2CF3
CF3CF2CF 3
C4F10
CF3I
HCFC
HFC
HFC
HFC
HFC
PFC
PFC
FIC
LCG*
LCG*
LCG*
LCG*
LCG*
LCG*
LCG*
LCG*
8.30
0.2413
0.00088
3.862
1,200
3.30
41.83
12.10
3.91
2.30
7.92
2.84
4.65
0.1575
0.3164
0.1825
0.1269
0.1413
0.1171
0.0941
0.1138
0.00066
0.00122
0.00073
0.00052
0.00057
0.00047
0.00034
0.00050
5.858
2.934
5.074
7.283
6.549
7.904
9.911
8.078
1,373
807
1,218
1,407
1,377
1,320
1,517
2,096
Table D.2.1 (b)
Halocarbon Gaseous Agents for Fixed Systems
Minimum Extinguishing Concentrations and Agent Exposure Limits
Page - 50
Generic Name
Trade Name
Halon 1301
HCFC Blend A
HCFC-124
HFC-23
HFC-125
HFC-227ea
HFC-236fa
FC-2-1-8
FC-3-1-10
FIC-13I1
BTM
NAF S-III
FE-24
FE-13
FE-25
FM-200
FE-36
CEA-308
CEA-410
Triodide
Heptane
Minimum Inerting
Extinguishing Class B Fire Methane/Air
Concentration Design Conc. Design Conc.
vol% (1)
vol% (1) vol%
3.2
5.0
4.9
9.9
12.0
20.1
6.7
8.0
Not Reported
12.5
18.0
22.2
8.1
9.7
Not Reported
6.6
7.9
8.8
6.1
7.3
Not Reported
7.3
8.8
9.8
5.9
7.1
8.6
3.0
3.6
7.15 propane
NOAEL
vol% (2)
5
10
1
50
7.5
9
10
30
40
0.2
LOAEL
vol% (2)
7.5
>10
2.5
<50
10
10.5
15
>30
>40
0.4
Table D.2.1 (c)
Halocarbon Gaseous Agents for Fixed Systems
Environmental Factors
Generic Name
Trade Name
Ozone
Depletion
Potential
Page - 51
Global
Global
Warming
Warming
Potential*
Potential*
100 yr.
500 yr.
Halon 1301
BTM
10
6,900
2,700
HCFC-22 = 0.05
HCFC-22 = 1,900
HCFC-22 = 590
HCFC Blend A
NAF S-III
HCFC-124 = 0.02
HCFC-124 = 620
HCFC-124 = 190
HCFC-123 = 0.02
HCFC-123 =120
HCFC-123 = 36
HCFC-124
FE-24
0.02
620
190
HFC-23
FE-13
0
14,800
11,900
HFC-125
FE-25
0
3,800
1,200
HFC-227ea
FM-200
0
3,800
1,300
HFC-236fa
FE-36
0
9,400
7,300
FC-2-1-8
CEA-318
0
8,600
12,400
FC-3-1-10
CEA-410
0
8,600
12,400
FIC-13I1
Triodide
0.0001
<1
<<1
* Source of GWP and ALT values "Scientific Assessment of Ozone Depletion: 1998." World
Meteorological Organization, Global Ozone Research and Monitoring Project - Report No. 44
Atmospheric
Lifetime*
years
65
HCFC-22 = 11.8
HCFC-124 = 6.1
HCFC-123 = 1.4
6.1
243
32.6
36.5
226
2,600
2,600
0.005
Table D.2.1 (d)
Halocarbon Gaseous Agents for Fixed Systems
System Features
Page - 52
Generic Name
Trade Name
Halon 1301
HCFC Blend A
HCFC-124
HFC-23
HFC-125
HFC-227ea
HFC-236fa
FC-2-1-8
FC-3-1-10
FIC-13I1
BTM
NAF S-III
FE-24
FE-13
FE-25
FM-200
FE-36
CEA-318
CEA-410
Triodide
Mass
Cylinder
Nominal
Required Storage Volume Discharge
Relative to
Relative to
Time
Halon 1301 Halon 1301
seconds
1
1
10
1.6
1.9
10
1.5
1.5
10
2.0
2.5
10
1.6
2.2
10
1.9
1.8
10
1.6
1.4
10
2.3
2.2
10
2.3
1.9
10
0.9
0.6
10
Cylinder
Pressure
bar
24 to 42
24 to 42
24
42
24
24 to 42
24 to 42
24 to 42
24 to 42
24
Maximum
Fill
Density
kg/m3 (7)
1,082
900
1,140
860
831
1,150
1,200
1,124
1,280
1,680
Note: Mass and volume ratios based on "Minimum Class B Fire Design Concentrations" from Table 1.2.1(b)
Notes to Tables D.2.1 (x)
1. Nominal agent extinguishing and design concentrations are minimum values
recommended by manufacturers, where available.
2. Maximum unrestricted agent concentration: NOAEL for halocarbons.
3. Maximum restricted agent concentration: LOAEL for halocarbons.
4. Liquid densities are nominal in 20-25ºC range.
5. NFPA 2001, Sec. A-2-1.4.1
6. k1 and k2 are the constants used in the vapor / gas specific volume correlation.
Vapor specific volume: S = k1 + k2*t, m3/kg. Vapor density = 1/S, kg/m3
where the temperature, t, is in ºC.
D.2.2
Inert Gas Systems
There have been at least four inert gases or gas mixtures commercialised as
clean total flooding fire suppression agents. Inert gases are used in design
concentrations of 35-50% by volume which reduces the ambient oxygen
concentration to between 14% to 10% by volume, respectively. It is known that
for most typical fuels oxygen concentrations below 12-14% will not support
flaming combustion. The inert gas mixtures proposed contain nitrogen and/or
argon; one blend contains carbon dioxide (<8%). Although CO2 is not an inert
gas the addition of CO2 is added by one manufacturer to act as a breathing
stimulant. This may increase safety to personnel for cases where accidental
(non-fire) release of the agent has occurred, however it may also increase
inspiration of fire by-products during a release of the agent on an actual fire.
The addition of CO2 should be considered in relationship to the types of fuels
present in the space to be protected and their likelihood of by-product formation
during a fire.
Proposed commercialised inert gases/mixtures are summarised in Tables D.2.2(a)
and D.2.2(b)
These agents are electrically non-conductive, clean fire suppressants. They differ
from halocarbon agents in the following ways:
1. They are not liquefied gases. They are stored as high pressure gases and
hence require high pressure storage cylinders which may have storage volume
and weight impact.
2. These systems use pressure reducing devices at or near the discharge manifold.
This reduces the pipe thickness requirements and alleviates concerns regarding
high pressure discharges.
3. Discharge times are on the order of one to two minutes. This may limit some
applications involving very rapidly developing fires.
Page - 53
4. Inert gas agents are not subject to thermal decomposition and hence form no
by-products.
D.2.2.1
Physiological Effects
The primary health concern relative to the use of these agents is the effect of
reduced oxygen concentration on the occupants of a space. The use of reduced
oxygen environments has been extensively researched and studied. Many
countries have granted health and safety approval for use of inert gases in occupied
areas in the workplace. One product contains a limited concentration of carbon
dioxide to stimulate breathing in a reduced oxygen atmosphere.
D.2.2.2
Environmental Factors
There is no concern regarding the ozone depletion or global warming potential
of inert gas systems.
Page - 54
Table D.2.2 (a)
Inert Gases for Fixed Systems
Physical Properties
Page - 55
Generic Name
IG-541
IG-55
IG-01
IG-100
Trade name
Inergen
Argonite
Argotec
NN100
Chemical composition
Nitrogen
52%
50%
0%
100%
Argon
40%
50%
100%
0%
Carbon Dioxide
8%
0%
0%
0%
Chemical group
Inert gas blend Inert gas blend
Inert gas
Inert gas
Agent form, stored
Compressed Gas Compressed Gas Compressed Gas Compressed Gas
k1, m3/kg (9)
0.65799
0.6598
0.5612
0.7998
k2, m3/kg/deg C (9)
0.00239
0.00242
0.00205
0.00293
Specific Volume, m3/kg
0.697
0.708
0.602
0.858
Gas Density@20 C,kg/m3
1.434
1.412
1.661
1.165
Liquid Density, kg/m3 (6)
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
Extinguishing (8)
Heptane extinguishing Conc., vol%
29.1
32.3
37.5
33.6
Minimum Class B fire design conc., vol% (1)
34.9
36.8
45.0
40.3
Minimum Class A fire design conc., vol% (1)
33.8
31.6
35.9
41.0
Inerting:Methane-Air, Design Conc., vol%
47.3
Not Reported
61.4
41.7
Table D.2.2 (b
Inert Gases for Fixed Systems
Toxicity, Storage and Environmental Factors
Page - 56
Generic Name
IG-541
IG-55
IG-01
IG-100
Trade name
Inergen
Argonite Argotec NN100
Agent exposure limits
Max unrestricted agent concentration, vol% (2)
42.8
42.8
42.8
42.8
Max restricted agent concentration, vol% (3)
52.3
52.3
52.3
52.3
Other
In Relation to Halon 1301
Mass Required (Class A)
2.2
2
2.8
2
Cylinder Storage Vol.
~10 (5)
~10 (5) ~10 (5) ~10 (5)
Environmental factors
Ozone depletion potential
0
0
0
0
Global warming potential, 100 yr.
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
Atmospheric Life Time, yrs.
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
System Features
Nominal Discharge Time, seconds
60
60
60
60
Cylinder pressure, bar
150 or 200 150 or 200 180 180 or 240
Notes to Tables D.2.2(x)
1. Nominal agent extinguishing and design concentrations are minimum values
recommended by manufacturers, where available.
2. Maximum unrestricted agent concentration: NOAEL 12% oxygen for inert
gases except CO2
3. Maximum restricted agent concentration: LOAEL 10% oxygen for inert gases
except CO2
4. Inert gas at 150 bar cylinder pressure
5. NFPA 2001, Sec. A-2-1.4.1
6. There are inconsistencies in the inert gas heptane extinguishing concentration
values in relation to the heat capacities of the various agents. Heat capacity is
the principal figure of merit for agents lacking chemically active extinguishing
mechanisms.
D.2.3
Water Mist Technology
One of the non-traditional halon replacements which has been developed and
partially commercialised is fine water mist technology. Fine water mist relies
on relatively small (less than 200 m) droplet sprays to extinguish fires. The
mechanisms of extinguishment include the following:
•
gas phase cooling,
•
oxygen dilution by steam expansion or by combustion products,
•
wetting of surfaces, and
•
turbulence effects.
Water mist systems have attracted a great deal of attention and are under very
active development due primarily to their low environmental impact, ability to
suppress three-dimensional flammable liquid fires, and reduced water application
rates relative to automatic sprinklers. The use of relatively small (10-100 m)
diameter water droplets as a gas phase extinguishing agent has been established
for at least 40 years. Recent advances in nozzle design and improved theoretical
understanding of fire suppression processes has led to the development of at
least nine water mist fire suppression systems. Several systems have been
approved by national authorities for use in relatively narrow application areas.
To date, these applications include shipboard accommodation, storage and
machinery spaces, combustion turbine enclosures, flammable and combustible
liquid machinery areas as well as light and ordinary hazard sprinkler application
areas.
Page - 57
Theoretical analysis of water droplet suppression efficiencies has indicated that
water liquid volume concentrations on the order of 0.1 L of water per m3 of air
is sufficient to extinguish fires in the gas phase. This represents a potential of
two orders of magnitude efficiency improvement over application rates typically
used in conventional sprinklers. The most important aspect of water mist
technology is the extent to which the mist spray can be mixed and distributed
throughout a compartment versus the loss rate by water deposition and gravity
dropout. The suppression mechanism of water mist is primarily gas phase cooling
of the flame reaction zone below the limiting flame temperature. Other
mechanisms are important in certain applications; for example, steam expansion/
O2 dilution has been shown to be important for suppression of enclosed 3-D
flammable liquid spray fires.
While water mist offers excellent control of fires, it does not always guarantee
extinguishment. Small, obstructed fires may require response team intervention
to achieve total extinguishment. Applying water mist for a sufficient time period
to allow response by trained fire fighters may be an important design
consideration, especially where small, obstructed fires could develop.
The performance of a particular water mist system is strongly dependent on its
ability to generate sufficiently small droplet sizes and distribute adequate
quantities of water throughout the compartment. This depends on the droplet
size, velocity, distribution, and spray pattern geometry, as well as the momentum
and mixing characteristics of the spray jet and the geometry and other
characteristics of the protected risk. Hence, the required application rate varies
by manufacturer for the same hazard. Therefore, water mist must be evaluated
in the context of a system not just an extinguishing agent.
There is no current theoretical basis for designing the optimum droplet size and
velocity distribution, spray momentum, distribution pattern, and other important
system parameters. This is quite analogous to the lack of a theoretical basis for
nozzle design for total flooding, gaseous systems, or even conventional sprinkler
and water spray systems. Hence, much of the experimental effort conducted to
date is full-scale fire testing of particular water mist hardware systems which
are designed empirically. This poses special problems for standards making and
regulatory authorities.
There are currently two basic types of water mist suppression systems: single
and dual fluid systems. Single fluid systems utilise water stored at 40-200 bar
pressure and spray nozzles which deliver droplet sizes in the 10 to 100 m diameter
range. Dual systems use air, nitrogen, or other gas to atomise water at a nozzle.
Both types of systems have been shown to be promising fire suppression systems.
It is more difficult to develop single phase systems with the proper droplet size
distribution, spray geometry, and momentum characteristics. This difficulty is
offset by the advantage of requiring only a high pressure water source versus
Page - 58
water and atomiser gas storage.
Water mist systems are reasonably weight efficient. The use of small diameter
distribution tubing and the possible use of composite, lightweight, high-pressure
storage cylinders would increase this efficiency. It may also be possible to
integrate a “central storage” of agent for use in several potential fire locations
(for example, cargo and passenger cabin locations). This would further increase
the benefit.
The major difficulties with water mist systems are those associated with design
and engineering. These problems arise from the need to distribute the mist
throughout the space while gravity and agent deposition loss on surfaces deplete
the concentration and the need to generate, distribute, and maintain an adequate
concentration of the proper size droplets. Engineering analysis and evaluation
of droplet loss and fallout as well as optimum droplet size ranges and
concentrations can be used effectively to minimise the uncertainty and direct the
experimental program. Approval testing and standardisation efforts have begun.
Some of these systems have received acceptance from approval authorities for
limited applications. Other manufacturers are in the R&D phase with their
particular hardware.
D.2.3.1
Physiological Effects
At the request of the United States Environmental Protection Agency,
manufacturers of water mist systems and other industry partners convened a
medical panel to address questions concerning the potential physiological effects
of inhaling very small water droplets in fire and non-fire scenarios. Disciplines
represented on the Panel included inhalation toxicology, pulmonary medicine,
physiology, aerosol physics, fire toxicity, smoke dynamics, and chemistry, with
members coming from commercial, university, and military sectors. The
Executive Summary (draft “Water Mist Fire Suppression Systems Health Hazard
Evaluation;” HARC, US Army, NFPA; March 1995) states the following: “The
overall conclusion of the Health Panel’s review is that...water mist systems using
pure water do not present a toxicological or physiological hazard and are safe
for use in occupied areas. Thus, EPA is listing water mist systems composed of
potable water and natural sea water as acceptable without restriction. However,
water mist systems comprised of mixtures in solution must be submitted to EPA
for review on a case-by-case basis.”
D.2.3.2
Environmental Factors
There is no concern regarding the ozone depletion or global warming
potential of water mist
Page - 59
Table D.2.3
Water Mist Technologies
Page - 60
Manufacturer
ADA Technologies
Fike
Kidde Graviner
Ginge Kerr
Grinnell
GW Sprinkler
Chemetron
Marioff Hi-fog
Microguard-Unifog
MicroMist
Reliable Automatic Sprinkler
Securiplex
Semco
Total Walther
Ultra Fog
Country
USA
USA
UK, USA
UK, Denmark, Norway
USA
Denmark
USA
Finland
Germany
UK
USA
Canada
USA, Denmark,
Germany
Sweden
Atomization Method
Gas Atomized
Gas Atomized
Gas Atomized
Gas Atomized
Impingement
Impingement
Impingement
High Pressure
High Pressure
Flashing
High Pressure
Gas Atomized
High Pressure
Impingement
High Pressure
Activation Method
Manual
Smoke or heat detectors/Manual
Smoke or heat detector/Manual
Smoke or heat detector/Manual
Fusible link or glass bulb/Manual
Fusible link or glass bulb/Manual
Smoke or heat detector/Manual
Detectors/glass bulb/Manual
Fusible link or glass bulb/Manual
Smoke or heat detector/Manual
Smoke or heat detector/Manual
Smoke or heat detector/Manual
Fusible link or glass bulb/Manual
Smoke or heat detectors
Unknown
D.2.4
Inert Gas Generators
Inert gas generators utilise a solid material which oxidises rapidly, producing
large quantities of CO2 and/or nitrogen. The use of this technology to date has
been limited to specialised applications such as engine nacelles and dry bays on
military aircraft. This technology has demonstrated excellent performance in
these applications with space and weight requirements equivalent to those of
halon 1301 and is currently being utilised in some U.S. Navy aircraft applications.
D.2.4.1
Physiological Effects
Applications to date have included only non-occupied areas. The precise
composition of the gas produced will obviously affect the response of exposed
persons. Significant work is required to expand application of this technology
to occupied areas.
D.2.4.2
Environmental Effects
There is no concern regarding the ozone depletion or global warming potential
of inert gas generators.
Table D.2.4
Inert Gas Generator Technologies
Manufacturers
ICI
Primex
D.2.5
Fine Solid Particulate Technology
Another category of new technologies being developed and introduced are those
related to fine solid particulates and aerosols. These take advantage of the well
established fire suppression capability of solid particulates, with potentially
reduced collateral damage associated with traditional dry powders. This
technology is being pursued independently by several groups and is proprietary.
To date, a number of aerosol generating extinguishing compositions and aerosol
extinguishing means have been developed in several countries. They are in
mass production and are used to protect a range of hazards.
One principle of these aerosol extinguishants is in generating solid aerosol
particles and inert gases in the concentration required and distributing them
uniformly in the protected volume. Aerosol and inert gases are formed through
a burning reaction of the pyrotechnic charge having a specially proportioned
composition. An insight into an extinguishing effect of aerosol compositions
Page - 61
has shown that extinguishment is achieved by combined action of two factors
such as flame cooling due to aerosol particles heating and vaporising in the
flame front as well as a chemical action on the radical level. Solid aerosols must
act directly upon the flame. Gases serve as a mechanism for delivering aerosol
towards the seat of a fire.
A number of Russian enterprises have commercialised the production of aerosol
generators for extinguishing systems which are installed at stationary and mobile
industrial applications such as nuclear power station control rooms, automotive
engine compartments, defence premises, engine compartments of ships,
telecommunications/electronics cabinets, and aircraft nacelles.
Fine particulate aerosols have also been delivered in HFC/HCFC carrier gases.
The compositions are low in cost and use relatively simple hardware. A wide
range of research into aerosol generating compositions has been carried out to
define their extinguishing properties, corrosion activity, toxicity, and effect upon
the ozone layer as well as electronics equipment.
Solid particulates and chemicals have very high effectiveness/weight ratios. They
also have the advantage of reduced wall and surface losses relative to water mist,
and the particle size distribution is easier to control and optimise. However,
there is concern of potential collateral damage to electronics, engines, and other
sensitive equipment. They are unsuitable for explosion suppression or inerting
since pyrotechnic/combustion ignited aerosols can be re-ignition sources. These
agents also have low extinguishing efficiency on smouldering materials. Technical
problems including high temperature, high energy output of combustion generated
aerosols and the inability to produce a uniform mixture of aerosol throughout a
complex geometry remain to be solved.
D.2.5.1
Physiological Effects
There are several potential problems associated with the use of these agents.
While none of these problems has been proven, they remain potential concerns.
These effects include inhalation of particulate, blockage of airways, elevated
pH, visibility, and the products of combustion from combustion generated
aerosols, such as HCl, CO, and NOx.
1.2.5.2
Environmental Factors
There are no environmental concerns with respect to ODP or GWP for solid
particulates beyond those of carrier gases (if any) that may be used.
Page - 62
Table D.2.5
Fine Particulate Aerosol Technologies
Manufacturers
Kidde
Powsus
Spectrex
Russian Research Institute for Applied Chemistry
Soyz Association
Intertexnolog Assoc
Dynamit-Nobel
D.3
System Design Considerations for Fixed Systems
The new gaseous fire extinguishing agents are less forgiving in total flooding
applications than halon 1301. Care must be taken throughout the design process
to assure satisfactory system performance. Halon 1301 typically employed safety
factors of 60% to over 100%. This extra margin did not require the very high
degree of attention required to apply the new technology agents in a reliable
manner. Hazard definition, nozzle location and design concentration must be
specified within carefully defined limits. Further, a high degree of enclosure
integrity is required. Design requirements are provided by national and
international standards such as NFPA 2001 and ISO 14520. An outline of factors
to be taken into consideration is given below.
D.3.1
D.3.2
Definition of the Hazard
•
Fuel type(s)
•
Fuel loading
•
Room integrity (openings, ventilation, false ceilings, sub-floors)
•
Dimensions and Net Volume of the room
•
Temperature extremes
Agent Selection
•
Statutory approvals
•
Personnel safety (occupied, not occupied?)
•
Minimum concentration required (cup burner / full scale tests)
•
Design concentration required with factor of safety
•
NOAEL / LOAEL okay at minimum volume, max temperature and design
Page - 63
concentration
D.3.3
•
Decomposition characteristics
•
Replenishment availability
System Selection
•
System intended for use with the agent selected
Pressures, elastomers, gauges, labels
•
System has appropriate approvals as the result of third party testing
Strength tests (containers, valves, gauges, hoses, etc.)
Leakage tests
Cycle testing of all actuating components
Corrosion tests
Cylinder mounting device tests
Ageing tests for elastomers
Flow tests (software verification, balance limitations)
Fire tests (nozzle area coverage, nozzle height limitations
•
D.3.4
System has documented design, installation, maintenance procedures
System Design
•
Automatic detection and control
Type of detection (smoke, heat, flame, etc.).
Logic (cross zoned, priority designated)
Control system features
Local and remote annunciation
Start up and shut down of auxiliary systems
Primary and back-up power supply
Manual backup and discharge abort controls
•
Central agent storage, distributed or modular
•
Electrical, pneumatic or electrical/pneumatic actuation
•
Detector location
•
Alarm and control devices location
•
Class A (control loop) or Class B electrical wiring
Page - 64
D.3.5
•
Electrical signal and power cable specifications
•
Nozzle selection and location
•
Piping distribution network with control devices
•
Piping and other component hangers and supports
•
Agent hold time and leakage
•
Selection of an appropriate design concentration
•
Agent quantity calculations
•
Flow calculations
•
Pipe size and nozzle orifice determination
System Installation
•
Installed per design
•
System recalculated to confirm “as built” installation
•
Correct piping
Size
Routing
Number and placement of fittings
Pipe supports
Correct type, style, orifice size nozzle in each location
•
Fan test to confirm tightness of protected volume
•
Acceptance functional test of full system without discharge
Test each detector’s operation
Test system logic with detection operation
Test operation of auxiliary controls
Test local and remote annunciation
Test signal received at system valve actuators
Test system manual operators
Test system abort discharge abilities
D.3.6
Follow Up
•
Integrity of the protected space does not change
Walls, ceiling and floor intact
Any new openings sealed properly
•
Net volume and temperature range of the space does not change
Page - 65
•
Regular maintenance for detection, control, alarm and actuation system
•
Regular verification of the agent containers’ charged weight
•
Regular cleaning of the detection devices
•
Confirmation of back-up battery condition
D.4
Alternatives for Portable Extinguishers
D.4.1
Traditional Streaming Agents
D.4.1.2
Straight Stream Water
Straight stream water is suitable for use on fires of ordinary combustibles such
as wood, paper and fabrics only. This type of extinguisher is unsuitable for use
in extinguishing fires involving liquids or gases and in fact could spread a
flammable liquid fuel. Straight stream water extinguishers are unsafe for use on
fires where electrical circuits are present.
D.4.1.2
Water Fog (Spray)
Water spray extinguishers are most suitable for use on fires of ordinary
combustibles such as wood, paper and fabrics. This type of extinguisher may be
less effective on deep-seated fires. The spray stream is generally more effective
on burning embers and may provide a very limited capability for fires involving
combustible liquid fuels. Some water spray extinguishers can be used on fires
where live electrical circuits are present. Users should ensure that the extinguisher
has been tested and certified before use on live electrical circuits.
D.4.1.3
Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF)
AFFF extinguishers generally may increase the effectiveness of water on fires
of ordinary combustibles such as wood, paper and fabrics and provide a limited
capability to extinguish fires involving flammable or combustible liquids. As
well, this agent has the ability to reduce the likelihood of ignition when applied
to the liquid surface of an unignited spill. The aqueous film forming foam
reduces vapor propagation from the flammable liquid.
Depending upon the stream pattern, this type of extinguisher may not be safe for
use on fires where live electrical circuits are present.
D.4.1.4
Carbon Dioxide (CO2)
Carbon dioxide extinguishers use CO2 as a liquefied compressed gas. Carbon
dioxide is most suitable for use on fires involving flammable liquids. Carbon
dioxide does not conduct electricity and can be used safely on fires involving
live electrical circuits. In general, carbon dioxide extinguishers are not capable
of extinguishing fires of ordinary combustibles such as wood, paper and fabrics.
Page - 66
D.4.1.5
Dry Powder
Dry chemical extinguishers are of two types. Ordinary dry chemicals, usually
formulations based on sodium bicarbonate, are suitable for fires involving
flammable liquids and gases. Multipurpose dry chemicals, usually formulations
of ammonium dihydrogenphosphate, are suitable for use on fires of ordinary
combustibles such as wood, paper and fabrics and fires involving flammable
liquids and gases. Both ordinary and multipurpose dry chemicals may be safely
used on fires where electrical circuits are present; however, after application dry
chemical residue should be removed because in the presence of moisture it could
provide an electrical path that would reduce insulation effectiveness.
D.4.2
Halocarbon Agents
Information on halocarbon streaming agents is contained in Table 1.4.2. These
agents come closest to matching all the desirable properties of halon 1211. For
example they are effective on both solid and liquid fuel fires and they permeate
well avoiding secondary damage. However, in general, they are more expensive
than traditional fire protection agents.
D.4.2.1
Toxicity
The toxicity of streaming agents is assessed based on the likely exposure of the
person using the extinguisher. This is sometimes measured using breathing zone
samples. All of the streaming agents discussed above are considered safe for
normal use. Use of some of these agents in confined spaces may be a cause for
concern.
D.4.2.2
Environmental Factors
The environmental factors for halocarbon streaming agent alternatives are the
same as those discussed for halocarbon total flooding agents. Information on
ODP, GWP and atmospheric lifetime are presented in Table 1.4.2. Traditional
streaming agents do not present environmental concerns in the areas of ODP,
GWP, or atmospheric lifetime.
Page - 67
Table D.4.2
New Technology Streaming Agents
Physical Characteristics
Generic Name Trade Name Group
Storage
State
Halon 1211
BCF
Halon
LCG*
HCFC Blend B Halotron I HCFC/
LCG*
PFC Blend
Page - 68
HCFC Blend E NAF P-IV
HCFC
Blend
HCFC-124
HFC-236fa
HFC-227ea
FC-5-1-14
HCFC
HFC
HFC
PFC
FE-24
FE-36
FM-200
*LCG - Liquified Compressed Gas
**ODP - Ozone Depletion Potential
***GWP - Global Warming Potential
Environmental Factors
ODP GWP GWP Atmospheric
100 yrs 500 yrs Lifetime (yrs)
3
1300
390
11
0.02
120
36
1.4
0
5700
8900
50000
0
n/a
n/a
n/a
0.02
120
36
1.4
0
3800
1200
32.6
0
n/a
n/a
n/a
Chemical Composition
Weight % Species
CF2ClBr
>96%
HCFC-123
CF
4
<4%
<4%
Argon
LCG*/ 90%
HCFC-123
Liquid 8%
HFC-125
2%
isopro-penyl1-methylcyclohexene
CHClFCF 3
0.022
LCG*
CF
CH
CF
LCG*
3
2
3
0
CF3CHFCF 3
0
LCG*
C6F 14
0
LCG*
620
9400
3800
9000
190
7300
1300
13200
6.1
226
36.5
3200
D.5
Selecting an Alternative Streaming Agent
D.5.1
Assessment of Alternative Streaming Agents
The important features of alternative, manually applied fire extinguishing agents
are described below. In general portable extinguishers are only used on actual
fires and can be readily directed at the burning material.
D.5.1.1
Effectiveness on Ordinary Combustibles
This parameter considers the ability of the agent to extinguish fires in ordinary
solid combustibles, including cellulosics. These are called Class A fires and the
extinguisher should carry a rating categorising its Class A performance.
D.5.1.2
Effectiveness on Liquid Fuel Fires
This parameter considers the ability of the agent to extinguish liquid fuel fires
(Class B). The extinguisher should carry a Class B rating.
D.5.1.3
Electrical Conductivity
Minimal conductivity is important in fighting fires where electricity is involved.
D.5.1.4
Ability to Permeate
This parameter reflects the ability of the agent to extinguish fires in locations
where direct application to the fuel surface or flame reaction zone is not possible,
for example, in the floor void of a commercial airliner.
D.5.1.5
Range
This parameter reflects the ability of the agent to maintain a coherent effective
stream over a modest distance.
D.5.1.6
Effectiveness to Weight Ratio
This parameter considers the relative fire suppression capability across all fuels
per unit weight of agent.
D.5.1.7
Secondary Damage
This category refers to the “clean agent” aspects of the agents, i.e. secondary
damage caused by the suppressant agent itself.
D.5.2
Match the performance of the Alternative Streaming Agent to the Hazard
The performance of each alternative is summarised in the table below. The
relative importance of each parameter has not been rigorously derived and final
selection depends on detailed knowledge of the risk to be protected.
Page - 69
Table D.5.2
Streaming Agents for Portable Fire Extinguishers
Type
Page - 70
Ordinary
Flammable Electrically Ability to
Stream Effective Secondary
Combustibles
Liquids
Non
Permeate
Range
Weight Damage
Conductive Concealed
Spaces
CO2
Poor
Fair
Yes
Good
Fair
Poor
Good
Multi-purpose Dry Powder
Good
Good
Yes
Fair
Very Good Good
Poor
AFFF
Good
Fair
No
Poor
Good
Poor
Poor
Water Stream
Good
Ineffective
No
Poor
Good
Poor
Poor
Water Fog
Good
Fair
Yes
Fair
Fair
Fair
Fair
Halocarbons
Good
Good
Yes
Good
Good
Good
Good
Halon 1211
Good
Good
Yes
Good
Good
Good
Good
E
Safety in Halon Decommissioning
E.1
Introduction
Decommissioning is the process of removing a halon system from service. This
must be done in order to recover the halon so it can be made available for other
uses. As a logical and natural outcome of the decision to phase out production in
Non-Article 5(l) countries, the rate at which halon systems are being
decommissioned is increasing around the world. This is because recycled halon
is now the only source for the remaining Essential Uses in Non-Article 5(l)
countries, and in most Article 5(l) countries as well. Because safety is such an
important aspect of decommissioning, it is becoming a more significant issue
for the fire protection industry as more systems are being removed so their halon
can be used elsewhere.
Halons are pressurised gases. Therefore, the cylinders containing them are under pressure and must be handled with great care. If the pressure is released in
an uncontrolled way, the cylinder will become a projectile and can cause serious
injury or death to people working on the cylinder, or to bystanders. It is of
utmost importance that proper safety procedures be followed at all times when
handling halon cylinders. There are basically two ways halon bottles can become dangerous. One is by damaging the valve and the other is to activate the
discharge mechanism. It can be easy to accidentally activate these bottles, and
cause serious injury or death. In Canada last year, a service technician was
killed while preparing to remove halon from a cylinder. His death occurred
because proper safety procedures were not being followed. In the US, the Fire
Suppression Systems Association (FSSA) has received a number of reports of
incidents involving cylinders that accidentally discharged in an uncontrolled
way when they were being removed from service or during handling. In all
cases, the cause was improper handling of the cylinders by untrained and unqualified people.
Today, the remaining needs for halons in all Non Article 5(l) countries, and most
Article 5(l) countries is being met with recycled halon. This halon becomes
available to the market when an owner of a halon system removes the system
from service and makes the halon available to another buyer. Before the phaseout
when halon was widely available, halon systems were decommissioned at a much
slower pace than is occurring today. With the process taking place so much
more frequently, the temptation to hire untrained and inexperienced people is
increasing. This situation can occur when the market demand for service professionals exceeds the capacity of the local industry, or because of a need to
acquire halon quickly.
Page - 71
Halon systems components have been manufactured for over 20 years, in many
places around the world, and by many different companies. As a result, many
different types and models of valves and activation mechanisms are installed on
halon cylinders. Because of this, it can be difficult to know exactly how a particular valve mechanism works, or the proper procedures for safe
decommissioning. This can even be true for professionals who may not have
encountered a particular design before. Ideally, the people who decommission a
system should be those who installed and serviced it, however this is not always
possible. In any case, the procedures outlined in the Operations and Maintenance Manuals, Owners Manuals, Service Manuals, etc., that are provided by
the manufacturer for the specific type of equipment installed must be followed.
Some of the key steps that would be considered as mandatory in any procedures
manual are detailed below:
E.2 Secure Cylinders
Before any steps are taken to disconnect any piping from a halon cylinder, it
must first be firmly secured to an immovable object. If this is not done, and the
valve becomes damaged, the cylinder could become a projectile. Cylinders connected to installed systems are usually adequately secured to a system manifold.
E.3
Disable Actuation Devices
Once the cylinder is firmly secured, the first step in decommissioning is to disable the actuation devices so the cylinder cannot accidentally fire. The actuation
device triggers the valve to open. The valves holding the pressure in the cylinder
are designed such that when activated, they go from a fully closed to fully open
position instantly, and the cylinder will be fully emptied in approximately 10
seconds. When this happens, the cylinder depressurises rapidly. If the cylinder
is not safely secured in place when this occurs, it will become a projectile. This
is why the first thing the technician must do when decommissioning (after
securing to an immovable object) is to disable the actuation mechanism.
Actuation mechanisms can be either electrical, pneumatic or mechanical. However, simply disconnecting the device from its electrical or pneumatic source is
not enough to deactivate the device. In the case of pneumatic systems, there is
usually a small pin exposed that must be covered with a safety cap. Failure to do
this could result in accidental discharge. On electrically activated valves, disconnecting the electrical leads to the solenoid valves is acceptable. However, if
the electrical connection is to an explosive initiator, it is very important to remove the initiator. This is a very important safety practice, because static electricity can cause the explosive to detonate, firing the valve. These actions must
be taken before any further dismantling is done.
Page - 72
E.4
Install Anti-Recoil Devices
At this point, it is now safe to carefully disconnect any discharge piping from the
discharge port. Immediately upon disconnection of the piping, an anti-recoil
device must be installed. The anti-recoil device prevents the cylinder from becoming a projectile in the event the cylinder activates or if the valve becomes
damaged. Most fire suppression system cylinders are furnished with valve outlet anti-recoil devices, and in some cases cylinder protection/safety caps. DO
NOT disconnect cylinders from the piping system, or move or ship the cylinders
if the anti-recoil devices or safety caps are missing.
Obtain these parts from the Distributor or the Manufacturer. These devices are
provided for safety reasons, and must be installed at all times, except when the
cylinders are connected to the piping system, or being filled. All control heads,
pressure operating heads, initiators, discharge heads, or other type of actuation
devices must be removed; and anti-recoil devices or safety caps must be installed before disconnecting the cylinders from the system piping. Fire suppression system equipment varies according to manufacturer, therefore it is important to follow the instructions and procedures provided in the manufacturer’s
manuals. Decommissioning should only be undertaken by qualified fire suppression system service company personnel.
A safety cap is a device to prevent recoil. It is simply a cap which is secured
over the discharge port to disperse a sudden release of halon and prevent the
cylinder from becoming a projectile. It is important that the caps designed and
manufactured for the specific model of valve be used. This is because the threads
are not standardised, and if the wrong size is used they may not hold the pressure
of the halon release.
If the proper manufacturers caps cannot be obtained, pipe caps, plugs or plates
can be substituted, but must be installed correctly. If pipe caps, plugs or plates
are used, at least four opposing holes must be drilled in the cap, plug or plate so
that in the event of a discharge, the pressure is dispersed in a way that balances
the forces exerted on the cylinder. Anti-recoil device safety caps, plugs or plates
must always be properly installed before handling the cylinders.
E.5
Packing Cylinders for Shipment
Complying with the above safety practices is paramount before removing any
cylinders from the mounting position. Once the safety devices are in place,
cylinders can be moved with relative safety. However, it is always important to
remember that these are high pressure compressed gas cylinders, and must be
handled according to all the safety procedures applicable to any other high pressure gas cylinder. At this point, with the actuating mechanism removed or
Page - 73
disabled and the anti-recoil device correctly installed, the cylinder may be
moved to the location where the halon will be removed. Sometimes the halon is
removed on site, but usually the cylinders are secured onto pallets or packed in
crates and shipped to a central point.
E.6
Receiving Shipped Cylinders
At the receiving point for the cylinders, there are a number of safety procedures
that must be followed. When opening the shipping container, a “halon sniffer”
should be used to determine if there has been an accidental discharge or leakage
during transit. If there is a reading, people should move away and allow any
heavy concentrations of halon to dissipate.
Technicians should then look carefully at each cylinder to determine which one
of the following devices is present:
•
Burst disk/initiator
•
Mechanical/cutter valve
•
Shraeder valves/pilot check valves
If there is no initiator present and the safety cap is in place, the cylinder may be
safely unloaded and stored.
If the burst disk/initiator valve is present, look for initiators and safety caps and
proceed as follows:
If the initiator and safety cap are both in place, the cylinder may be carefully
unloaded, but the initiator must be disabled immediately by a qualified technician. It is important not to discharge any static electricity to the initiator or the
initiator wiring during unloading. This could cause the valve to discharge,
If the initiator is in place and there is no safety cap in place, first connect an
electrical ground strap to the cylinder, the vehicle the containers were shipped
in, and the person unloading the cylinder. Then install an anti-recoil device
(safety plug, plug or plate) over the outlet, taking care not to release any static
electricity to the initiator or its wiring. After the anti-recoil device is installed,
the initiator must be immediately disabled by a qualified technician.
Page - 74
If the valve is of the mechanical/cutter type, look for the safety caps/plugs and
proceed as follows:
If the cutter mechanism is removed and the safety cap is in place, or if the cutter
mechanism is in place with a safety cap or plug in place, the cylinder may be
safely unloaded and stored.
If the cutter mechanism is in place and no safety plug is installed, DO NOT
INSTALL A SAFETY PLUG. Make sure the cylinder is secured to a pallet, and
is handled in a safe manner. Cutter valves are activated by a sharp edge which
cuts into the disk sealing the cylinder opening. Be careful that the cylinder and
pallet are not hit hard against anything since this could cause the cutting edge of
the mechanism to cut into the disk and discharge the cylinder. Hold the cylinders in a safe location until a qualified technician can take action.
If the valve type has a Shraeder core, look for safety caps and proceed as follows:
•
If the safety caps are installed and the release valve or mechanism is secured,
the cylinder may be safely unloaded and stored.
•
If the safety cap is not in place and the release mechanism is not secured,
install the appropriate safety caps and secure the release mechanism before
unloading the cylinder.
The procedures for actually removing the halon differ depending on the type of
valve the cylinder has connected. There are many different types, manufactured
by many different companies around the world.
E.7
Measures to Improve the Safety of Decommissioning
The Halons Technical Options Committee recommends fire protection industry
associations, regulatory agencies of government with cognisant authority, and
system manufacturers work together to make sure only qualified people work
on halon systems, and that all necessary literature for the safe decommissioning
be made widely available throughout the industry, anticipating a greater than
usual demand for this information.
Owners of halon systems wishing to make the halon available to other buyers
should first turn to the company that installed the system originally, or the company which provided service to the system to have the system decommissioned.
If these companies are no longer available, a company with experience with the
specific system should be contacted. HTOC suggests that the following options
might form some appropriate guidelines:
Page - 75
E.7.1
For Consideration by Governments:
Governments which regulate their domestic fire protection industries should be
aware that decommissioning will be taking place much more frequently than
they have in the past. Governments can use the same methods they now use to
communicate regulatory requirements to industry to increase awareness about
the importance of safety during decommissioning, and to distribute technical
information. It would also be prudent at this time to review the adequacy of
existing rules and regulations governing the qualifications of people who perform this work and the procedures to be followed, and make adjustments as
necessary.
E.7.2
For Consideration by Halon System Owners:
It is in the interest of the halon system owners that the removal of the system
proceed without incident. Once the decision to sell halon has been taken, the
owner should first determine whether a halon bank is operating in their country.
This information can usually be obtained from the ozone protection, or Montreal Protocol unit of the national government’s environment ministry, department, or agency. The halon banking organisation may also be able to locate a
buyer, arrange for testing of the material to protect both buyer and seller, negotiate a price, and identify companies competent to remove and recycle the halon.
E.7.3
For Consideration by Repository Operators, Halon Recyclers, and Halon Service Professionals:
Be aware of the increasing pace of halon decommissioning. Develop awareness
and training materials for use by the industry. The guide to different valves and
some of the safety information in this report would serve as a good start to
awareness material targeted to the service professionals. In a number of countries in which halon banks operate, a surcharge has been placed on the halon
transactions brokered. Such a scheme could finance the development, publishing and distribution of such safety material for the industry.
E.7.4
For Consideration by All Interested Groups:
The US DOD through their ODS Reserve Program Office has assembled a halon
system valve types and safety issues manual. The ODS Reserve Office has
kindly agreed to make this manual available on a case by case basis to parties
engaged in the decommissioning of halon systems. In addition, they have volunteered to expand this document as additional technical information is submitted by other companies, individuals, or fire protection organisations. The Halon
Technical Options Committee would appreciate it if fire protection
Page - 76
professionals reading this report would submit technical information on cylinders, valve assemblies and actuators not included in this manual so they may be
added to future updates. Please send information and requests for to the the
following address:
DOD ODS Reserve (DSCR-RP)
Defense Supply Center Richmond
8000 Jefferson Davis Highway
Richmond, VA 23297-5100
www.denix.osd.mil
Page - 77
Page - 78
F
Responsible Management of Remaining Halon Uses and Stocks
F.1
Introduction
HTOC, in its response to the Parties with respect to decisions VIII/17 and IX/
21, provided several options for consideration on the feasibility of embarking
on an early halon system decommissioning programme for non-critical uses in
non-Article 5(1) countries. The majority of these options lead to a possible
reduction in unnecessary emissions of the halons to atmosphere, with the
concept of responsible management of remaining halon uses and stocks being
the key to achieving that objective.
HTOC considers that efforts resulting in the careful management of the total
halon inventory will result in lower emissions to atmosphere. Responsible
management mitigates the need for any Essential Use production to satisfy
Critical Uses. It also establishes programmes that would be suited to manage
environmentally sound disposal of excess stocks should alternatives for Critical Uses become available at some future date.
This chapter is therefore devoted to the responsible management of halons.
Important topics, such as halon recycling and inventory undertakings, emission reduction strategies, Critical Use concepts and applications are discussed
in turn. The application of the concept of responsible management in major
sectors such as aviation, oil and gas, military and merchant shipping is described in the attached appendices.
F.2
Halon Recovery, Recycling and Reuse
F.2.1 Introduction
The recovery and recycling of the existing halons is key to the minimisation of
unnecessary emissions, and provides an environmentally sound pathway for
halons to be directed to Critical Uses while environmentally acceptable alternatives are developed.
Prior to the late 1980s, relatively few firms recovered and recycled halons
from fire protection equipment which was being serviced or decommissioned.
Major losses or emissions resulted also from system discharge proof testing.
High levels of halon 1211 emissions also occurred as a result of frequent
discharge testing, personnel training and equipment-proving exercises.
Page - 79
As information about the magnitude of the potential environmental damage
caused by release of CFCs and halons was more widely publicised, the fire protection community, along with the major users of halon, voluntarily began implementing procedures to minimise unnecessary halon emissions. Changes to
national and international technical standards, the adoption of the Montreal Protocol and various other regulations, as well as changes implemented by users
and industry members, have resulted in increased recovery and recycling activity and the virtual cessation of discharge testing of systems.
Many large corporations have adopted specific policy guidelines regarding usage and disposal of halons. Small corporations, with some exceptions, generally have not. Typically, firms providing fire protection services are consulted
by both large and small corporations for recommendations about halon use and
disposal, as well as the status and availability of replacement agents, or alternative means of providing fire protection for vital facilities. As a result, firms
providing fire protection services are in an excellent position to help.
Whilst this chapter is mainly devoted to the recovery and management of halons
1301 and 1211, because of their past widespread use and world-wide distribution, many of the principles also apply to halon 2402. However, the recovery
and responsible management of halon 2402 faces additional problems due to its
past use in a specific sector, mainly in military equipment produced in the former
USSR. Consequently, owing to its limited production, the potential inventory
of halon 2402 is likely to be small and insufficient to meet current Critical Use
demands. In addition, the majority of countries affected have economies that
are in transition and thus will require both financial and in-kind assistance in
areas such as technology transfer, training and information exchange. This assistance should then enable those countries to put into place effective halon 2402
recovery, management and emission reduction programmes and the timely introduction of environmentally friendly alternatives.
F.2.2 Definitions
There has been much confusion regarding the term “halon bank”. For clarity, the
following convention will be observed. The total halon holding of a country or
an organisation will be referred to as the “inventory”; halon held in purpose built
physical stores as “repositories”; and agencies which facilitate contacts between
those offering and those requiring halon as “clearinghouses”.
F.2.3 Managing the Halon Inventory
In virtually all countries, at the local level, the fire equipment industry will be
Page - 80
key to the success of recovery programmes. In these cases, fire equipment companies will be the interface between halon contributors and consumers in the
market served. They will manage quantities of halon as they become available
from contributors, putting them in touch with consumers who need the halon to
service other systems or for new installations.
In most countries, fire equipment distributors belong to an industry association
or are registered with a government agency that could require compliance with
an industry “Code of Practice”. Such associations or agencies will have an
important role to play to ensure the fire fighting effectiveness and safe transfer
of recovered halons. The association or agency should list qualified fire equipment service organisations that have complied with training and equipment standards necessary for the safe and efficient recycling of halons, and who would be
able to certify acceptance to a required standard of halon purity such as ISO
7201 Part 1 or ASTM D 5632-94a. The association or agency should also require transfer records. Those providing halon for recycling, the fire equipment
company and the purchaser would thus be assured of compliance with recognized and acceptable levels of safety and quality, thereby reducing liability concerns and building confidence in the viability of recycled material. This is very
important where international transfers are concerned to ensure compliance with
the provisions of the Basel Convention. The records gathered and maintained
could also begin the process of developing an inventory of halons if required.
At the national level, the establishment of a brokerage company or clearinghouse
to manage transfers between contributors and consumers of recyclable halon
within a country may be necessary. Fire equipment companies, agencies of
government, and large organisations with a surplus or deficit of halon are the
likely users of such a company. It will also have an important role to play if
halon is to be imported into, or exported from, the country. Such a company
would not necessarily have physically to undertake halon reclamation; it may be
more appropriate to contract for these services to minimise capital investment.
A clearinghouse could be established as a non-profit making organisation with
cost recovery accomplished by an administrative fee. The management of such
an organisation would best be undertaken by a steering committee comprising
representatives of government, the fire protection community, and industrial users.
A function of such a clearinghouse could be to undertake a criticality review on
behalf of the parties to the transaction. This could be accomplished by establishing a “Critical Use Review Panel” made up of persons representing a balance of interest in this issue. For example, representation could come from
halon contributors, halon consumers, the fire equipment industry, regulatory
Page - 81
oversight agencies, environmental advocacy groups, and fire protection organisations. This review panel might be necessary to satisfy the public that these
important fire extinguishants would be used wisely and with the utmost respect
to environmental concerns. This procedure is also important to instill confidence in those organisations with surplus halon that others will use it wisely,
preferably only for Critical Uses. Without such a review procedure, responsible
potential contributors may be inclined to withhold halons from use due to concerns that they could be viewed as simply ridding themselves of a hazardous
waste.
Some countries, militaries or large industrial organisations, may wish to consider establishing their own physical halon repository to provide immediate back
up in the event of discharge, or to maintain strict control of halon stocks. This
concept requires warehouses and storage tanks, and may require the repository
managers to purchase halons, ‘recycle’ them and have them ready for redistribution. When considering this option, it is important that there be known uses for
the material before collection and storage begin. This is particularly true for
halon 1211 where much of the material is contained in small portable fire extinguishers. The collection of the extinguishers and removal of halon is likely to be
an expensive undertaking. In this instance, users may wish to consider the simple redeployment of halon 1211 portable extinguishers from non-critical applications to critical applications if recharge or re-certification is not necessary.
F.2.4 Balancing Supply and Demand
As a result of the phase out of production of the halons in Article 2 countries,
recycled quantities now represent the only legitimate supply in the developed
countries, and are the primary supply of halon 1301 elsewhere. This has created
a need for a system of procedures to measure and predict both supply and demand, and to match contributors and consumers of halon. The management of
halon stocks is of equal importance to countries as it is for large multi-national
corporations, government agencies and similar organisations, although their
approaches to solving the problem are likely to differ.
An important objective of any halon management programme must be to balance supply and demand, and manage this resource as part of a life safety strategy. Both excess and inadequate supplies should be avoided. An excess of supply will decrease the value of the halon to the point where some holders may
surreptitiously vent their surplus material rather than incur the high cost of destruction or storage. Conversely, an inadequate supply may lead to compromises in fire protection (and human safety) or requests for Essential
Page - 82
Use production exemptions. Several factors could influence this delicate balance, the most significant being:
•
A list of Critical Uses.
•
The rapid development of fully acceptable replacement agents.
•
Regulatory actions that would discourage recycling and reuse, such as specific
use limitations or overly restrictive transport regulations.
•
Actions leading to the devaluation of the halons to the point where they
become an economic liability.
A list of Critical Uses could be a threat to the establishment of responsible inventory management programmes both nationally and internationally and possibly make it difficult to balance supply and demand in the early years. This
particular issue is covered further in this chapter under section 4.4.
Several government agencies and major corporations have invested significant
funds in the research and development of halon replacements and alternative
technologies. To date none of this research has resulted in an acceptable alternative that can replace the halons in all situations or for minimal equipment change.
However, viable alternatives have been developed for many applications and
they are now being commercialised. The gradual introduction of these alternatives has been of benefit to the halon recycling market as it has allowed supplies
of unwanted halons from systems being taken out of service to keep pace with
demand. Attempts to force these replacements on to specific protection applications through legislation would upset this delicate balance.
It should also be remembered that the freedom of unrestricted recycling and
reuse was a key recommendation to the Parties to the Montreal Protocol that
enabled agreement to the early phase out of halon production in Article 2 countries. Regulations that discourage recycling and reuse, such as specific use limitations or overly restrictive transport regulations, will have a major impact on
the ability of some nations and their industries to meet their fire protection needs
- particularly those needs, such as transportation, that cross national boundaries.
It has been reported that continued production of halon 1211 in a few Article
5(1) countries, coupled with a reduced demand in non-Article 5(1) countries, is
resulting in a world-wide surplus of this agent. Whilst this may be true, some
countries are also reporting local shortages. Clearly, therefore, there is a need to
match the world-wide supply and demand through the redistribution of existing
stocks and the discouragement of further production.
Page - 83
HTOC believes that, while it may appear to be possible to destroy part of the
Halon 1211 inventory, this should not be done until supply and demand are
confirmed to be in balance.
For halon 1301, HTOC believes that there is no excess over the needs for Critical Uses, and thus it would not be prudent to consider destruction of halon 1301
at this time if future Essential Use production is to be avoided.
F.3
Halon Emission Reduction Strategies
F.3.1
Introduction
The release of the halons into the atmosphere is a fundamental consequence of
the process of flame extinction and enclosed space inertion. However, these
necessary emissions only use a small proportion of the available supply of the
halons in any year. Most countries have discontinued system discharge testing
and discharge of extinguishers for training purposes, resulting in emission reductions in some cases of up to 90%. Additional and significant reductions of
halon emissions can be realised by improving maintenance procedures and detection and control devices as outlined in this Section.
Halon emission reduction strategies are covered in detail in the following ten
areas:
•
Regulatory Issues
•
Responsible User Concept
•
Alternative Fire Protection Strategies
•
Halon Use Minimisation
•
Maintenance Programme
•
Personnel and Documentation
•
Halon Transfers And Storage
•
Halon Discharging
•
Safety in Halon Decommissioning
•
Disposal and Destruction Issues
Page - 84
F.3.2
Regulatory Issues
F.3.2.1
Introduction
In decisions VIII/17 and IX/21, the Parties requested TEAP to report on the
feasibility of, and problems with, early decommissioning of halon systems in all
non-Article 5(1) countries.
By definition, all non-critical halon 1211 applications can be decommissioned.
HTOC estimates that up to 80% (by weight) of all portable 1211 applications
can be taken out of service.
In regard to halon 1301 and again, by definition, all non-critical halon 1301
fixed systems can be decommissioned. However, HTOC believes it is not necessary to do so to meet future demands for Critical Uses.
For halon 1211, three options have been identified for Parties to consider. With
two of those three options, some form of regulatory control would be necessary.
Briefly, the options are to:
F.3.2.2
•
Leave existing halon 1211 extinguishers in place at the discretion of the
owner. This proposal is the least expensive option for all concerned but
would likely result in all halon 1211 eventually being emitted.
•
Introduce a voluntary halon 1211 management programme involving
collection, storage and final destruction. Sizeable investments either from
the public or private sector will be required.
•
Legislate for a mandatory programme of halon 1211 decommissioning which
would require extensive control, investment and infrastructure support
measures to ensure collection, storage and ultimate destruction of unwanted
halons, thereby preventing illicit venting.
Merits or Otherwise of a Regulatory Approach
In considering both sides of this proposition, there are some distinct advantages
but also a number of disadvantages in introducing a legislative mandate with
halon emission and uses in non-Article 5(1) countries. Governments may wish
to consider the following when reviewing the regulatory approach.
Halon Emissions
Regulation of halon emissions by, for example:
•
banning the use of the halons for testing and training;
•
requiring the recovery and recycling of the halons.
Page - 85
Advantages
Quicker reduction of halon
emissions and earlier recovery
of the ozone layer
Disadvantages
Additional costs to industry of
recovery and recycling equipment.
Reduces demand for remaining
stocks of halon so more can be
conserved for Critical Uses.
Additional costs to government of
developing and implementing
legislation.
Halon Uses
Regulation of halon uses by, for example:
•
•
•
•
restricting the continued use of the halons to critical equipment;
establishing uniform national criteria for implementation;
establishing an independent Panel of technical experts to vet applications;
restricting exports of recycled halons to Critical Uses.
Advantages
Long term reduction of halon
emissions – less damage to the
ozone layer.
Disadvantages
Additional costs to government of
developing and implementing
legislation.
Reduces demand for remaining
stocks of halons so more can be
conserved for Critical Uses.
Additional costs to industry for
decommissioning and replacement
of fire protection equipment.
Pressure for rapid development
of halon alternatives.
Additional costs to government of
additional control or support measures to ensure collection and
prevent anticipated illicit venting.
Lower release rate through
disposal of surplus halons
Additional costs of storage and
maintenance of halon stocks for
Critical Uses.
Additional costs to government of
maintaining an independent Panel
of experts.
Additional costs of disposal of
surplus halons.
Page - 86
The introduction, through legislation, of bans on halon use without the provision of adequate control mechanisms, government or private investment and
extensive infrastructure support measures, has the potential to increase emissions in the short term.
Proper planning is an absolute necessity to ensure that all stakeholders involved
in the process have the opportunity of contributing towards the various policies
and strategies.
F.3.3
Responsible User Concept
In accepting that the main objective in responsible halon management is to minimise emissions from the halon inventory, the introduction of a “responsible user
charter” could be an innovative step.
A “responsible user charter” could require a user or halon owner to agree to a
voluntary Code of Practice that would require all practical measures to be taken
to prevent unnecessary releases of the halons to atmosphere. In addition, the
Code of Practice could also require the user to arrange for appropriate disposal
of any unwanted halons to either another qualified responsible user or to a destruction facility.
A key aspect of the responsible user concept would include a certification process to ensure agreement to:
•
the implementation of a high standard of service, maintenance and training
to eradicate incidences of accidental system discharge or extinguisher product
leakage.
•
undertaking a quantitative fire risk assessment programme to minimise the
possibility of fires with subsequent reduction in halon discharges.
•
an environmentally safe method of disposal of the halons.
Page - 87
A suggested pro-forma for a halon user might contain the following details:
Voluntary Industry Code of Practice Halon User Disclosure Statement
1)
The (Fire Equipment Company/Servicing Company) has advised me that
the halon used in the fire equipment that I have selected is a known
ozone depleting substance.
2)
The (Fire Equipment Company/Servicing Company) has advised me that
my country is obligated, by international agreement, to ensure that all
practicable measures are taken to prevent releases of halon (1211/1301)
to the atmosphere including:
_
to recover halon (1211/1301) from equipment during servicing and
maintenance as well as prior to equipment dismantling or disposal;
_
to destroy unneeded halon (1211/1301) where economically feasible
and environmentally appropriate to do so.
This could entail the imposition of specific requirement at some future
date.
3)
The (Fire Equipment Company/Servicing Company) has advised me of
other appropriate fire protection measures and choices.
The (Fire Equipment Company/Servicing Company) has also advised
me that halon (1211/1301) may not be available for future recharge and
my halon facility will be unable to be serviced in the future.
4)
I have carefully reviewed the following criteria to justify halon use:
“It is necessary for the health, safety or is critical for the functioning of
society (encompassing cultural and intellectual aspects);
and there are no available technically and economically feasible alternative or substitutes that are acceptable from the standpoint of environment and health, and all other appropriate fire protection measure have
been taken.”
Page - 88
In summary, and in view of the fact that the ongoing supply of halon 1301 in
particular is likely to be limited, many countries have established a set of rules
or criteria utilising similar wording to that outlined above. The criteria should
be met before the halon is made available to refill an installation. Technical and
managerial assistance, as well as investment, are needed in order to establish the
necessary tools for responsible halon management by users.
F.3.4
Alternative Fire Protection Strategies
It is recommended that the halons be considered for Critical Uses ONLY. The
halons should not be used where alternatives can be employed. In all cases, in
determining whether or not a halon protection system is required or should be
removed, a risk assessment should be performed.
Good engineering practice dictates that, wherever possible, fire hazards should
be designed out of facilities and equipment. Only when necessary, having minimised the risk, should active fire protection then be incorporated. Consequently,
active fire extinguishing systems, which perform the same function as halon
systems, should not be considered as the only alternative to halon systems. A
combination of prevention, inherently safe design, minimisation of personnel
exposure, passive fire protection measures, equipment duplication, fire detection, and manual intervention should all be considered:
F.3.4.1
Prevention of Fire
Where there is a low probability of fire and that probability can be reduced to
acceptable proportions by preventative measures and employee diligence, the
need for active fire protection can be minimised. Where it is not possible sufficiently to reduce the chance of fire or explosion, then a combination of fire
prevention and other measures such as sensitive fire detectors and manual intervention may be considered sufficient.
F.3.4.2
Inherently Safe Design
It may be possible to eliminate the need for active fire protection by ensuring
that all the equipment in the area is non-combustible, or that inventories are
sufficiently small such that there is no immediate threat to life or critical equipment before evacuation of the area and manual intervention can take place.
F.3.4.3
Minimisation of Hazards to Personnel
Where the only threat to life is within the protected area, the need to occupy the
area may be minimised by the segregation of the hazardous equipment from the
areas requiring access. Similarly, evacuation strategies and routes may be arranged to ensure that personnel can evacuate before a fire reaches a scale that
can threaten life.
Page - 89
F.3.4.4
Passive Fire Protection
Critical equipment may be protected by the careful use of passive fire protection
materials to ensure its survivability, or by location in a protective enclosure.
This may not be possible where the inherent risks are within the equipment
itself.
F.3.4.5
Equipment Duplication
Critical equipment may be duplicated so that the loss of one item does not affect
the availability of the entire system. However, since secondary equipment may
also be exposed to hazards, duplication may not, on its own, provide adequate
safeguards.
F.3.4.6
Fire Detection
Early detection could allow isolation of the fire and manual intervention before
it reaches a size that can cause major damage or threaten life.
F.3.4.7
Manual Intervention
Critical examination of the fire hazards may show that, where codes permit, a
manual response using agents other than the halons is acceptable when trained
fire teams can react within a short time.
Performing an overall risk assessment, taking into consideration fire protection
strategies, allowable down time, backup equipment and documentation and
backup services, will help in determining the optimum fire protection strategy.
A thorough analysis may also provide documentation necessary for obtaining
insurance cover.
F.3.5
Halon Use Minimisation
When protection against fire or explosion hazards with the halons is considered
essential, the following practices should be observed to minimise the use of
halon systems, and thus reduce emissions potential.
F.3.5.1
Local Application of Extinguishant
Local application systems should be used where the primary fire hazards within
an area can be identified and localised. Effective protection can then be achieved
with less agent than a total flood design would require.
F.3.5.2
Reserve Systems
Reserve systems should only be installed when:
• There is a confirmed immediate need to restore an active fire protection
capability.
• Recharge supplies are unacceptably remote.
Page - 90
If it is feasible to do so, consideration should be given to leaving reserve supplies unconnected, which can help avoid unwanted release of the reserve supply.
If possible, reserve agent should be kept in a single storage tank to reduce the
risks of accidental release and leakage. If the reserve halon is on site in a system
of cylinders rather than a single storage tank, the chances of leakage and accidental discharge are increased in proportion to the number of cylinders. Where
there is no on-site capability for the storage and transfer of the halons, nor a
contractor nearby with the capabilities, then consideration should be given to
placing all reserve cylinders in an enclosure and installing an automatic halogen
leak detector with remote and local alarms.
F.3.5.3
Extended Extinguishant Discharge
All possible means should be explored to maintain extinguishant concentration
at the level provided by the initial discharge, such as minimisation of air movement, closure of any openings in the enclosure, and the installation of systemactuated dampers or shutters. Only if these measures prove unsatisfactory should
an extended or repeat discharge be considered. Extended discharge systems
should be avoided, as they normally require significantly more halon than single
shot or short discharge systems.
F.3.5.4
Zoned Systems
Where it is technically feasible, protection of several separate zones by a single
halon system using total or partial discharge should be considered.
F.3.6
Maintenance Programme
Attention to maintenance programmes can add years to a user’s halon inventory
by a significant reduction in avoidable emissions. This reduces costs in two
ways. It minimises the need to purchase the halons, and it prolongs the useful
life of the existing fire protection system. Once emissions are minimised, funding for system replacement can be planned over longer periods, such as the life
of the equipment. Cost payback from maintenance, manufacturer improvements,
and more frequent servicing can be realised almost immediately. A maintenance
programme includes; upgrading equipment to utilise improvements and new
technology, scheduling equipment replacement, proper design, regular
maintenance, and periodic system checks.
F.3.6.1
Upgrade of Equipment
A timely upgrade of halon equipment to minimise leaks, prevent accidental discharges, and minimise false alarms/discharges is recommended.. In most cases,
the detection system can be reused after the halon system is removed, regardless
of the new method of fire protection. Thus upgrades to equipment represent a
natural progression in an operation and maintenance programme.
Page - 91
F.3.6.2
Scheduled Equipment Replacement
A well-developed maintenance programme will include scheduled equipment
replacement, based on the expected life of the equipment. The equipment life
may be determined from manufacturer’s recommendations, local or national
regulations, or previous history. Planning for replacement provides a basis for
forecasting long term funding requirements.
F.3.6.3
Design and Regular Maintenance
In many cases, inadvertent discharges represent the largest source of halon emissions, and they can often be eliminated through improved maintenance procedures.
Inadvertent discharges are mostly attributed to:
•
Automatic detectors responding to transient changes in environmental
conditions such as humidity and airborne dust.
•
Unreliability of electrical or mechanical components, or poor protection from
contamination, damage or outside electrical interference.
•
Irregular and/or inadequate personnel training.
•
Inadequate maintenance procedures and documentation.
•
Accidents during system servicing or testing (see note below).
Note: Reductions in false releases during maintenance of detection systems have been observed
when electrical isolation switches are incorporated in protection system designs. Such devices
prevent equipment from being returned to service while still in an alarm condition.
F.3.6.4
Regular System Checks
System checks and maintenance should be done on a frequent and regular basis.
System cylinders should be visually inspected on a monthly basis for obvious
damage to the cylinders, valves, leak detectors and other vulnerable components. The contents of cylinders should be checked every six months to monitor
losses. (Note: There are a number of methods for checking the quantity of
halon in a cylinder. Check with the manufacturer for optimum method.) Valves
and fittings should be inspected at the same time using a local halon sensor such
as those used to check refrigeration systems for leaks. Cylinders should only be
replaced if more than 5% by weight of the initial contents has been lost or will
be lost by the next service. Minor losses within this 5% can often be tolerated
and will minimise unnecessary losses incurred in the process of rectifying such
leaks. Bar coding methods have been successfully employed to record and
track halon quantities and equipment condition.
Page - 92
It is imperative in cases where the halons are still being used that considerable
effort be given to developing better maintenance methods for the equipment.
Improved discharge system reliability is achieved through enhanced maintenance procedures and/or replacement with new technology. Development of a
maintenance programme should be done in parallel with performing a Risk Assessment of the facility and operations. Once a Risk Assessment has been performed on an operation, the fire protection needs are then determined. In cases
where automatic fire detection or suppression is determined necessary, maintenance becomes a significant and integral part of the Risk Management.
F.3.6.5
Detection Systems
Automatic halon systems go hand in hand with sensitive detection systems. Poor
design and improper maintenance of sensitive detection systems will almost
always result in unwanted halon releases. It is therefore essential that:
1
2
•
Systems assembled from a mixture of components from different
manufacturers, none of whom takes overall responsibility, should be avoided.
•
Automatic release circuits be designed to operate only after at least two
detectors on independent circuits have confirmed a serious incident.
•
Equipment chosen conforms to internationally accepted specifications
incorporating suppression of airborne and electrical interference. BS7273
1990 covers the electrical actuation of total flooding extinguishing systems
introduced to improve the reliability of control systems to reduce the
likelihood of accidental discharges1 . One of the major requirements is that
the circuit design and equipment construction should be such that the system
cannot discharge because of the failure of a single component or the short
circuiting of two current paths. In addition the equipment must be protected
from electromagnetic interference (from, for example, cellular phones) to
EC Directive 89/336/EEC2 .
•
Existing detection systems should be upgraded to take advantage of the latest
technology.
•
User and service company engineers are fully familiar with the system
operation and the equipment fitted.
British Standard, BS7273 1990.
European Community Directive 89/336/EEC.
Page - 93
F.3.6.6
Hazard and Enclosure Review
The hazard should be monitored and controlled. Enclosures should be checked
for modifications or changes to the configuration of the protected space. Halon
system removal or redesign will likely be required where walls have been moved
or contents of enclosures have been changed significantly. During these types
of changes it is also important to review impacts to the protection system which
may include changes in the environmental system. It is usually necessary to
modify the halon system when heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems
(HVAC) are added to the protected zone. Check with local/national fire regulations and manufacturers recommendations for specific requirements, which will
include requirements to connect controls of the halon system into the HVAC
system for automatic shutdown where the HVAC is not dedicated to the protected enclosure.
F.3.7
Personnel and Documentation
Where on-site maintenance is to be performed, it is essential that the service
personnel be properly trained. It is equally important that the system user be
informed of the proper operation of the system and cautioned on activities that
could result in an unwanted discharge. Both groups should be educated on ozone
depletion issues and the impact of halon releases, as well as the restrictions on
future supplies.
Risk Management includes establishing good system documentation and maintenance procedures. Appropriate documentation should be readily accessible to
assist the engineer in carrying out the system maintenance procedure. It should
be reviewed thoroughly and regularly to ensure that it correctly addresses the
specific equipment on-site. It should not be a a generic copy. Proper warnings,
labels, and instructions should be installed on-site. For example, signs should be
posted on the walls of areas protected by halon systems stating “This area is
protected by a halon fire protection system. Contact xxx prior to performing
modifications to this enclosure”. Quantities of the halons in service, storage,
and emitted should recorded regularly to determine areas where emissions can
be reduced, as well as to identify halon needs. Where large quantities of the
halons are in service, a computer database should be utilised for tracking quantities and component failures.
F.3.8
Halon Transfers and Storage
The component of halon emissions related to halon transfers can be substantially reduced by the use of approved filling rigs. Any operation relating to a
high-pressure gas must conform to the appropriate safety standards in line with
all relevant local, national, and international regulations. The equipment must
be to an approved standard and compatible with halon use.
Page - 94
Environmental concerns and operator safety dictate that all filling procedures
should be carried out by trained, and preferably licensed, personnel. Filling
operations should be performed in a well-ventilated area with all pressure relief
valves on the rig connected directly to the outside atmosphere. All equipment,
particularly flexible connections, should be checked at monthly intervals for
signs of deterioration. To avoid corrosion problems, it is essential that the halon
not be allowed to come into contact with water. The filling rig must be leak
tested to twice its normal operating pressure prior to its initial use, and constantly monitored for leaks during the filling operation. During filling and recovery operations, overall loss of the halons should be minimised and under no
circumstances should it exceed 5%.
It is recommended that all new portable fire extinguishers or system cylinders
be leak tested at all welds, valves, fill points, fittings, burst discs and other cylinder closures before and after being filled with the halon. Any units that show
signs of leakage should be connected immediately to a recovery rig and the
contents transferred to the recovery container. The cylinder/valve should be
rebuilt and the leak located and eliminated. Newly filled cylinders should not be
accepted unless they are certified as having total leak rates below 0.5% by weight
per annum of the initial halon fill.
Current safety standards require that portable halon extinguishers be emptied,
examined and refilled at regular intervals. This allows the cylinder to be inspected for signs of corrosion and to be subjected to pressure testing. In the
past, the halon was frequently released to the atmosphere. Clearly such practices must be banned, and all cylinders emptied using an approved recovery rig.
Recovery rigs should be operated so as to avoid the contamination of halon
supplies. Cylinders containing halon should be emptied by pressurising with
dry nitrogen or by use of positive displacement pumps. Vapours should be recovered to the maximum extent possible. The different halons should never be
mixed, to avoid contamination which commercial recycling equipment cannot
remove. Although halon recovery and recycling techniques are covered elsewhere, it is worth noting here that halon 1211 recovery systems with an efficiency of 98% and halon 1301 recovery systems with efficiencies >96% are
readily available today1 . The UK Fire Industry Council has issued a Code of
Practice covering the recovery of the halons2 .
1
2
Preliminary List of Halon Recycling, Recovery and Reclaim Equipment Manufacturers,
UNEP IE/PAC, 30 March 1994, Telephone: (33-1) 44 37 14 50, Fax: (33-1) 44 37 14 74.
UK Fire Industry Council Code of Practice for Reclaiming Halon, 1993.
Page - 95
In the past, it has been common practice to install secondary or backup halon
systems on-site to provide immediate protection in case the primary system had
discharged. This practice is no longer encouraged. Where backup systems are
not critical, they should be removed from service and the halon recovered. The
availability of relatively inexpensive, efficient halon recovery systems makes it
easier to increase the longevity of a user’s halon inventory. By recovering all
on-site halon that is not used in essential primary systems, the risk of accidental
discharge or agent leakage is reduced. The halon can be recovered into large
storage tanks and the tanks monitored for leakage.
The following practices are recommended:
•
Halon reserves should be held in bulk storage tanks or facilities wherever
possible, rather than in large numbers of small individual cylinders.
•
Surplus halons should be recovered from inactivated or unnecessary systems.
•
Good ambient conditions should be provided for both in-service systems
and cylinders and backup systems or agent in bulk storage tanks. Appropriate
leak detection equipment should be installed.
F.3.9
Halon Discharges
F.3.9.1
Fixed Total Flooding Systems
In the past, discharge tests of new systems using halon 1301 were regularly
performed to check enclosure integrity, adequate distribution and concentration
of agent, integrity of piping supports and piping, and the correct functioning of
detectors and control devices. Now, the performance of fixed total flooding halon
systems should not, under any circumstances, be validated by discharge tests
using a halon. Any regulations that mandate such tests should be amended. Several alternative procedures exist by which the operational readiness and performance of a system can be assured. These procedures are incorporated in
NFPA 12A - 1997, Halon 1301 Fire Extinguishing Systems1 .
To assess enclosure integrity, a “door fan” test, can be conducted. This test uses
air pressure, developed with a fan and measured with calibrated gauges, to determine the ability of an enclosure to hold the halon 1301 concentration. The
halon 1301 hold-time is usually calculated from the gauge readings using a small
computer.
1
NFPA: ALERT Number 91-2, Halon 1301 Discharge Testing Alternatives. National Fire
Protection Association, 1 Batterymarch Park , Quincy, Massachusetts 02269-9101, USA.
Page - 96
To address the other concerns, fire protection equipment standards play an important role. For example, UL 1058, Standard For Halogenated Agent Extinguishing System Units1 , provides an indication of the level of reliability for the
proper operation of detector/control devices, guidelines for the proper installation of nozzles to achieve sufficient agent distribution, and a test for verifying a
manufacturer’s flow calculation methodology. Similar requirements can be found
in British Standards2 . Only systems with complex piping arrangements might
require additional agent distribution testing. If this is considered to be necessary, an environmentally acceptable surrogate gas should be used. SF6 has been
proposed as a candidate alternative to halon 1301 for such tests, but it should be
noted that this gas, which comes under the remit of the Kyoto Protocol, has a
very high Global Warming Potential. HTOC does not advocate the use of this
gas during system discharge tests.
Although the decrease in emissions caused by the reduction in discharge testing
using the halons cannot be estimated, it is believed to have been substantial.
The Committee therefore believes that the elimination of discharge testing on a
global basis should be effected immediately, without any major impact on protection system integrity.
F.3.9.2
Portable Halon Fire Extinguishers
It is recommended that manually operated halon fire extinguishers are never
used for training purposes.
HTOC believes that it may now be possible virtually to eliminate this source of
halon emissions. Discussions within the industry suggest that fire-training organisations are now only demonstrating the use of portable halon extinguishers
and have stopped using them during training. Thus, where three or four extinguishers may have been discharged in the past, now only one is discharged.
With the increase in awareness of the environmental problems associated with
the halons, many users are switching to CO2, dry powder, or AFFF spray extinguishers. Thus, the demand for training in the use of portable halon extinguishers is declining. A pressurised water extinguisher system has been developed
for the U.S. military for fire fighter training. The handling behaviour is similar
to a halon 1211 system3 .
1
2
3
Underwriters Laboratories Inc., UL 1058, Standard For Halogenated Agent
Extinguishing System Units, Second Edition, 22 March 1991, ISBN 1-55989-024-X.
Underwriters Laboratories Inc., 333 Pfingsten Road, Northbrook, Illinois 60062-2096,
USA.
British Standard, BS 5306: Section 5.1: Halon 1301 Total Flooding Systems.
Leonard, J.T., Burns, R., Jones, P., and Ouellette, R., “Training Simulant for Halon 1211
Portable Extinguishers,” U.S. Naval Research Laboratory Memorandum Report, NRL/
MR/6180-94-7615, September 8, 1994, Naval Research Laboratory, Washington, DC,
20375-5320, USA
Page - 97
Video demonstrations of halon 1211 appliances in use could enhance user confidence without the actual use of halon 1211 in every training session. Interactive video training has also been developed for US military applications and can
be developed for most other needs1 . The U.K. military in conjunction with the
Civil Aviation Authority has also developed and utilises interactive video training2 . Therefore, it is reasonable to assume that the use of halon 1211 for training
purposes can be virtually eliminated.
Similar to the halon system cylinders, UL 1093, Standard For Halogenated Agent
Fire Extinguishers provides requirements for the construction and performance
of portable halon type fire extinguishers3 .
F.3.10
Safety Issues in Halon System Decommissioning
Decommissioning is the process of removing a halon system from service. This
must be done in order to recover the halon so it can be made available for other
uses. As a logical and natural outcome of the decision to phase out production in
Non-Article 5(l) countries, the rate at which halon systems are being
decommissioned is increasing around the world. This is because recycled halons
are now the only source for the remaining Critical Uses in Non-Article 5(l) countries and in most Article 5(l) countries as well. Because safety is such an important aspect of decommissioning, it is becoming a more significant issue for the
fire protection industry as more systems are being removed. More details associated with safe halon decommissioning procedures can be found in appendix E
of this report.
F.3.11
Halon Disposal and Destruction Issues
F.3.11.1
Introduction
There appears to be sufficient destruction capacity, using existing facilities in
developed countries, adequately to dispose of the limited current and projected
waste halons until the year 2000. Beyond this date, there is a possibility that the
quantities of substances for disposal will increase as a result of equipment replacement and that this could be handled through both existing and emerging
technologies. It is understood that there are only a few countries pursuing
proactive halon disposal programmes. Most developed and Article 5 countries
do not anticipate any need for destruction programmes at this time. These countries are, instead, placing priority on the management of the existing halon inventory to meet their industrial and commercial requirements.
1
2
3
Ibid
Civil Aviation Authority Fire Service Branch, Aviation House, South Area, Gatwick Airport,
West Sussex, RH6 0YR U.K.
Underwriters Laboratories Inc., UL 1093, Standard For Halogenated Agent Fire
Extinguishers, Fourth Edition, 11 October 1991, ISBN 1-55989-109-2. Underwriters
Laboratories Inc., 333 Pfingsten Road, Northbrook, Illinois 60062-2096, USA.
Page - 98
F.3.11.2
Economic Factors
The current costs of disposal of waste halons seem to vary considerably depending on the type of technology employed, operating costs in different countries
and local environmental regulatory criteria. Destruction costs employing conventional thermal oxidation processes range between US$3 and US$5 per kilogram. However, the newer dedicated halon destruction and transformation technologies cost in the range of US$1 to US$5 per kilogram.
The main concern at this stage is that the disposal option offers no financial
benefit or incentive to the user. Consequently, only a few developed countries
appear to have the will to mandate and fund a disposal programme. It is believed
that proactive incentive programmes are required to encourage responsible disposal practices, such as industry-sponsored responsible care programmes, rebates, subsidies and taxes. The minimum incentive required is the elimination
of all surcharges to encourage voluntary compliance with proper disposal practices. Well-publicised enforcement procedures, with heavy penalties to act as a
deterrent, may also be appropriate.
F.3.11.3
Future Options
Several topics could be raised during future discussion of the disposal issue.
These might include:
•
the need for consistent and co-ordinated disposal policies and programmes
in developed countries to address anticipated increased waste volumes
resulting from equipment retirement. The role of Article 5 countries should
be included.
•
the possible ranking of the four major ODS categories for the purposes of
prioritising disposal to achieve the maximum enhancement of the rate of
recovery of the ozone layer.
•
The possible use of the multilateral fund to assist Article 5 countries in
disposing of their unwanted ODS streams, in the longer term.
•
How best to encourage Article 5 countries to establish bilateral agreements
for the acquisition and use of the best available technology for the disposal
of ODS in an environmentally responsible manner.
•
The possibility of UNEP sponsorship to encourage all major ODS producers
to co-operate through the UNEP IE clearinghouse to accelerate the exchange
of information on available and emerging technologies between all Parties
to the Montreal Protocol.
•
The possibility of UNEP sponsorship of efforts to encourage cooperation
between ODS producers in the commercialisation of economical ODS
destruction technologies.
Page - 99
F.4
Critical Uses of the Halons
F.4.1 Introduction and Definition
In decision IV/25 of the Parties, Criteria and Procedures for assessing an Essential Use for the purposes of control measures in Article 2 of the Protocol were
defined. These same criteria were subsequently used for assessing “Critical
Uses” as well.
The criteria, agreed by the Parties, is as follows: “The use of a controlled substance should qualify as essential only if:
1. It is necessary for the health, safety or is critical for the functioning of
society (encompassing cultural and intellectual aspects) and
2. There are no available technically and economically feasible alternatives
or substitutes that are acceptable from the standpoint of environment and
health.”
It is important to maintain pressure on Critical Users to continue their search for
replacements and alternatives. This is a prime reason for avoiding a list of such
uses, which introduces the risk of complacency and a resultant reduction in the
urgency of this activity.
Furthermore, it is no more possible to develop such a list that would be valid for
all countries than it is for all time. Technical and economic constraints will vary
and the final assessment in any case should always be a matter for local experts.
F.4.2
Use Continuation and Economic Issues
The purpose of fire protection is to provide safety for life and property. It is
therefore appropriate to continue using existing systems where no alternative is
technically feasible or where such alternatives are too expensive and therefore
not economically feasible. From a technical point of view HTOC has identified
no applications for which the technical feasibility requirement will not eventually be met. But there are applications, for example in armoured vehicle crew
compartments or aircraft cargo bays, for which technical feasibility of alternatives has yet to be demonstrated.
Page - 100
However, in many cases, replacing an existing installation may fail the criterion
of economic feasibility. In some of these cases, existing facilities have been
designed and constructed in such a manner that reduction of the fire/explosion
risk to acceptable levels is dependent on the use of halons over the life of the
facility and major reconstruction would be required to implement alternatives.
In other cases, equipment, such as aircraft engine nacelles, has been designed
with a halon as an integral part of the equipment and its fire suppression system.
Although alternatives have been identified, the additional space and weight required to afford the same level of protection as the halons would require not
only modification to the fire suppression system but to the airframe as well,
rendering the implementation cost prohibitive. It must be noted that in the design and construction of all future facilities and equipment under this condition,
halon dependency can be eliminated by utilising other appropriate fire protection measures.
The cost of replacing the halons in a fire protection systems can vary significantly as, in almost all cases, it is not just the extinguishant itself that has to be
replaced. The whole fire protection system may have to be replaced. Occasionally, the protected facility may have to be redesigned. For example, the cost of
retrofitting existing fire protection systems on ships (both commercial and military), aircraft and even many land-based installations, would require major investment and would result in long downtime of the installations concerned.
It is outside the authority and beyond the capability of HTOC to assess whether
conversion or replacement of specific halon systems meets the criterion of economic feasibility. Economic feasibility depends on the strength of a national
economy or a specific economic sector. Therefore an early transition from halon
systems to alternatives may be feasible in certain countries, but may be completely outside the reach of other countries or sectors.
F.5
Conclusions
The phase out of production of halon in non-Article 5(1) countries has resulted
in recycled halon being the only available supply in the developed countries,
and the primary supply of halon 1301 elsewhere. The key to ensuring an adequate halon supply for Critical Uses, while at the same time minimising unnecessary emissions, is to develop programmes to encourage the wise management
of this resource.
Page - 101
Repositories and clearinghouses provide a sound pathway for halons to be directed to Critical Uses, and also allow for tracking of material if deemed necessary. They are also the key to responsible trade across international boundaries,
and should be supported and encouraged by national governments. In addition,
HTOC is of the opinion that a careful management programme for the remaining inventory is also likely to result in a lower emission outcome. Wise management practices provide a basis through which to implement an environmentally
sound disposition of excess stocks when alternatives for Critical Uses become
available in future.
Establishing a list of Critical Use applications is not a recommended practice. It
is crucial to maintain pressure on Critical Users to continue their search for
replacements and alternatives, and this is a prime reason for avoiding such a list,
which introduces the risk of complacency and a resultant reduction in the urgency of this activity, and instead for continuing to apply the criteria set out in
Decision IV/25. Furthermore, it is no more possible to develop a list which is
valid for all countries than it is for all time; technical as well as economic constraints will vary, and the final assessment will always be a matter for local
experts. Many of the remaining applications are in highly regulated markets,
and where substitutes are found, Parties can speed their implementation by removing impediments such as conflicting standards or regulatory barriers.
Another essential control mechanism in the plan to reduce halon emission levels
is to ensure that mandatory use bans are not introduced abruptly. Any proposed
regulatory measures whatsoever should be over an appropriate timeframe with
the required government investment and infrastructure support. Many users
have invested heavily in halon fire protection systems and to encourage them to
switch to alternatives, it is important that halon retain a market value to offset
the costs of replacement. Programmes that impose destruction costs on users
and/or set unrealistic forced decommissioning targets are likely to result in surreptitious emissions - to the detriment of the environment. Thus the objective of
any programme must be carefully to balance supply and demand while ensuring
that life safety is not compromised.
Finally, any management programme must contain a key element of responsibility. The responsible user concept and the possible introduction of an associated charter or voluntary industry Code of Practice would establish the practical
measures to prevent unnecessary releases of halon to atmosphere.
Page - 102
G
Glossary and Definitions
G.1
Glossary
AFFF
AL
ALC
ANSI
ASHRAE
ASTM
BS
CAA
CAAs
CEFIC
CFPA
CNPP
CO2
COP
CTFHE
DASCEM
DHB
DIFR
DOT
DTI
EC
EPA
EU
FAA
FCs
FIC
FOEP
GWP
HAG
Halon 1211
Halon 1301
Halon 2402
HARC
HBCFs
HCFCs
HFCs
HO
HRBSC
HRC
Aqueous Film Forming Foam
Atmospheric Life
Approximate Lethal Concentration
American National Standards Institute
American Society of Heating, Refrigeration and Air
Conditioning Engineers
American Society for Testing and Materials
British Standard
Civil Aviation Authority (UK)
Chemical Action Agent
European Chemical Industry Council
Conference of Fire Protection Associations (Europe)
Centre National de Prevention et de Protection (France)
Carbon Dioxide
Code of Practice
Comite Technique Francais Halon Environment (France)
Department of the Arts and Administration Services, Centre
for Environment Management (Australia)
Danish Halon Bank
Defence Institution of Fire Research (India)
Department of Transport (UK)
Department of Trade and Industry (UK)
European Community
Environmental Protection Agency
European Union
Federal Aviation Administration (USA)
Fluorocarbons
Fire Industry Council (UK)
Federal Office of Environmental Protection (Switzerland)
Global Warming Potential
Halon Alternatives Group (UK)
Bromochlorodifluoromethane
Bromotrifluoromethane
Dibromotetrafluoromethane
Halon Alternatives Research Corporation (USA)
Hydrobromofluorocarbons
Hydrochlorofluorocarbons
Hydrofluorocarbons
Home Office (UK)
Halon Recycling and Banking Support Committee (Japan)
Halon Recycling Corporation (USA)
Page - 103
HSE
HSG
HSSD
HTOC
HUNC
ISO
IST
JAA
LOAEL
MOD
MPS
NATO
NFPA
NOAEL
NPS
ODP
ONGC
PAAs
PFCs
PFS
RUG
SATPH
SEA
TEAP
UKOOA
ULC
ULI
UNEP
UNEP TIE
Health and Safety Executive (UK)
Halon Sector Group (UK)
High Sensitivity Smoke Detection
Halons Technical Options Committee
Halon Users National Consortium (UK)
International Standards Organization
The Bureau of Indian Standards (India)
Joint Aviation Authority (Europe)
Lowest Observed Adverse Effect Level
Ministry of Defence (UK)
Ministry of Public Security (China)
North Atlantic Treaty Organization
National Fire Protection Association (USA)
No Observed Adverse Effect Level
Nuclear Protection Systems
Ozone Depletion Potential
Oil and National Gas Commission
Physical Action Agent
Perfluorocarbons
Polish Fire Service
Refrigerants Users Group
Substitution and Transfer Plan of Halon (China)
Swedish Environmental Agency
Technology and Economic Assessment Panel
United Kingdom Offshore Operations Association
Underwriters Laboratories of Canada
Underwriters Laboratories Incorporated (USA)
United Nations Environment Programme
UNEP Division of Technology, Industry and Economics
Page - 104
G.2
Definitions
Article 5 Countries: Developing countries which are Party to the Montreal
Protocol with a annual calculated level of consumption less than 0.3 kg per
capita of the controlled substances in Annex A, and less than 0.2 kg per capita of
the controlled substances in Annex B, on the date of the entry into force of the
Montreal Protocol, or any time thereafter. These countries are permitted a ten
years grace period compared to the phaseout schedule in the Montreal Protocol
for developed countries.
Atmospheric lifetime: A measure of the average time that a chemical remains
intact once released into the atmosphere.
Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs): A family of organic chemicals composed of
chlorine, fluorine and carbon atoms, usually characterized by high stability
contributing to a high ODP.
These fully halogenated substances are commonly used in refrigeration, foam
blowing, aerosols, sterilants, solvent cleaning, and a variety of other
applications. CFCs have the potential to destroy ozone in the stratosphere.
Clearinghouse: An office which facilitates contact between halon owners and
halon buyers.
Consumption1 : The production of halon plus imports minus exports of controlled
substances. Where controlled substances means a substance in Annexes A-E of
the Montreal Protocol, whether existing alone or in a mixture. It includes the
isomers of any such substance, except as specified in the relevant Annex.
Controlled substance: Under the Montreal Protocol, any ozone depleting
chemical that is subject to control measures, such as a phaseout requirement.
Country Programme (CP): A national strategy prepared by an Article 5 country
to implement the Montreal Protocol and phase out ODS . The Country
Programme establishes a baseline survey on the use of the controlled substances
in the country and draws up policy, strategies and a phaseout plan for their
replacement and control. It also identifies investment and non-investment projects
for funding under the Multilateral Fund
Global warming: The warming of the earth due to the heat-trapping action of
natural andman-made greenhouse gases. Greenhouse gases emitted by human
activities including CFCs and HCFCs, are believed to warm the Earth’s
atmosphere, leading to climate change.
Page - 105
Global warming potential (GWP): The relative contribution of certain
substances (greenhouse gases), e.g. carbon dioxide, methane, CFCs, HCFCs and
halons, to the global warming effect when the substances are released to the
atmosphere by combustion of oil, gas and coal (CO2), direct emission, leakage
from refrigerating plants etc. The standard measure of GWP is relative to carbon
dioxide (GWP=1.0), which is consistent with the Intergovernmental Panel on
Climate Change (IPCC) indexing approach. The GWP can be given with 20,
100 or 500 years integration time horizon. There is not a complete agreement
within the scientific community on what is the proper time horizon, but 100
years is most commonly used.
Greenhouse effect: A thermodynamic effect whereby energy absorbed at the
earth’s surface, which is normally able to radiate back out to space in the form of
long-wave infrared radiation, is retained by gases in the atmosphere, causing a
rise in temperature. The gases in question are partially natural, but man-made
pollution is thought to increasingly contribute to the effect. The same CFCs that
cause ozone depletion are known to be greenhouse gases, with a single CFC
molecule having the same estimated effect as 10,000 carbon dioxide molecules.
See also global warming and global warming potential.
Greenhouse gas: A gas, such as water vapour, carbon dioxide, methane, CFCs
and HCFCs, that absorbs and re-emits infrared radiation, warming the earth’s
surface and contributing to climate change.
Halocarbons: Halocarbons are compounds derived from methane (CH4) and
ethane (C2H6), where one or several of the hydrogen atoms are substituted with
chlorine (Cl), fluorine (F), and/or bromine (Br). These compounds are so called
“partly halogenated halocarbons”. When all the hydrogen atoms are substituted
the compound is said to be fully halogenated. The ability of halocarbons depleting
ozone in the stratosphere is due to their content of chlorine and/or bromine and
their chemical stability. Fully halogenated halocarbons have much higher
chemical stability (atmospheric lifetime typically 100-500 years) than partly
halogenated halocarbons (atmospheric lifetime typically 1-20 years). CFCs,
HCFCs and HFCs are examples of halocarbons.
Halogens: Reactive chemical elements with the ability to form one chemical
bond in a molecule. Common halogens are fluorine (F), chlorine (Cl), bromine
(Br), and iodine (I).
Halon: A bromochlorofluorocarbon (BCFC), a chemical consisting of one or
more carbon atoms surrounded by fluorine, chlorine and bromine. Halons are
commonly used as flame retardants and fire extinguishing agents. Halons have
high ODPs.
Page - 106
Halon Bank2 : The quantities of halon in fire protection systems, in portable fire
extinguishers, in mobile fire extinguishers, and the halon in storage (containers).
Halon Bank Management3 : Bank management consists of keeping track of
halon quantities at each stage: initial filling, installation, ‘recycling’, and storage.
Hydrobromofluorocarbons (HBFCs)
A family of hydrogenated chemicals related to halons consisting of one or
more carbon atoms surrounded by fluorine, bromine, at least one hydrogen
atom, and sometimes chlorine. HBFC have lower ODPs than halons.
Hydrocarbon (HC): A chemical compound consisting of one or more carbon
atoms surrounded only by hydrogen atoms. Examples of hydrocarbons are
propane (C3H8, HC-290), propylene (C3H6, HC-1270) and butane (C4H10,
HC-600). HCs are commonly used as a substitute for CFCs in aerosol propellants
and refrigerant blends. The hydrocarbons have an ODP of zero.
Hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs): A family of chemicals related to CFCs
which contains hydrogen, chlorine, fluorine, and carbon atoms. HCFCs are partly
halogenated and have much lower ODP than the CFCs. Examples of HCFC
refrigerants are HCFC-22 (CHClF2) and HCFC-123 (CHCl2CF3).
Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs): A family of chemicals related to CFCs which
contains one or more carbon atoms surrounded by fluorine and hydrogen atoms.
Since no chlorine or bromine is present, HFCs do not deplete the ozone layer.
HFCs are widely used as refrigerants. Examples of HFC refrigerants are HFC134a (CF3CH2F) and HFC-152a (CHF2CH3).
Hydrofluoroether: A chemical composed of hydrogen, fluorine and ether, which
closely resembles the performance characteristics of ODSs.
Implementing Agency: Under the Montreal Protocol, four international
organizations designated to implement the Multilateral Fund. They are UNDP,
UNEP, UNIDO and the World Bank.
Low volume ODS-consuming countries (LVC countries): Defined by the
Multilateral Fund’s Executive Committee as Article 5 countries whose calculated
level of ODS consumption is less than 360 ODP tonnes annually.
LVC: See Low volume ODS-consuming countries (LVC countries).
Montreal Protocol: An international agreement limiting the production and
consumption of chemicals that deplete the stratospheric ozone layer, including
CFCs, Halons, HCFCs, HBFCs, methyl bromide and others. Signed in 1987,
the Protocol commits Parties to take measures to protect the ozone layer by
freezing, reducing or ending production and consumption of controlled
substances. This agreement is the protocol to the Vienna convention.
Page - 107
Multilateral Fund: Part of the financial mechanism under the Montreal Protocol.
The Multilateral Fund for Implementation of the Montreal Protocol has been
established by the Parties to provide financial and technical assistance to Article
5 countries.
National ozone unit (NOU): The government unit in an Article 5 country that
is responsible for managing the national ODS phaseout strategy as specified in
the Country Programme. NOUs are responsible for, inter alia, fulfilling data
reporting obligations under the Montreal Protocol.
ODS Officer: A member of a National Ozone Unit.
Ozone: A reactive gas consisting of three oxygen atoms, formed naturally in the
atmosphere by the association of molecular oxygen (O2) and atomic oxygen
(O). It has the property of blocking the passage of dangerous wavelengths of
ultraviolet radiation in the upper atmosphere. Whereas it is a desirable gas in the
stratosphere, it is toxic to living organisms in the proposphere.
OzonAction Programme: UNEP TIE’s OzonAction programme provides
assistance to developing country parties under the Montreal Protocol through
information exchange, training, networking, country programmes and institutional
strengthening projects.
Ozone depleting substance (ODS): Any substance with an ODP greater than 0
that can deplete the stratospheric ozone layer. Most of ODS are controlled under
the Montreal Protocol and its amendments, and they include CFCs, HCFCs,
halons and methyl bromide.
Ozone depletion: Accelerated chemical destruction of the stratospheric ozone
layer by the presence of substances produced, for the most part, by human
activities. The most depleting species for the ozone layer are the chlorine and
bromine free radicals generated from relatively stable chlorinated, fluorinated,
and brominated products by ultraviolet radiation.
Ozone depletion potential (ODP): A relative index indicating the extent to
which a chemical product may cause ozone depletion. The reference level of 1
is the potential of CFC-11 and CFC-12 to cause ozone depletion. If a product
has an ozone depletion potential of 0.5, a given weight of the product in the
atmosphere would, in time, deplete half the ozone that the same weight of CFC11 would deplete. The ozone depletion potentials are calculated from
mathematical models which take into account factors such as the stability of the
product, the rate of diffusion, the quantity of depleting atoms per molecule, and
the effect of ultraviolet light and other radiation on the molecules. The substances
implicated generally contain chlorine or bromine.
Page - 108
Ozone layer: An area of the stratosphere, approximately 15 to 60 kilometers (9
to 38 miles) above the earth, where ozone is found as a trace gas (at higher
concentrations than other parts of the atmosphere). This relatively high
concentration of ozone filters most ultraviolet radiation, preventing it from
reaching the earth.
Ozone Secretariat: The secretariat to the Montreal Protocol and Vienna
Conventionl, provided by UNEP and based in Nairobi, Kenya.
Party: A country that signs and/or ratifies an international legal instrument (e.g.
a protocol or an amendment to a protocol), indicating that it agrees to be bound
by the rules set out therein. Parties to the Montreal Protocol are countries that
have signed and ratified the Protocol.
Perfluorocarbons (PFCs): A group of synthetically produced compounds in
which the hydrogen atoms of a hydrocarbon are replaced with fluorine atoms.
The compounds are characterized by extreme stability, non-flammability, low
toxicity, zero ozone depleting potential, and high global warming potential.
PFCs: See Perfluorocarbons.
Phase out: The ending of all production and consumption of a chemical
controlled underthe Montreal Protocol.
Recovery4 : The collection and storage of controlled substances from machinery,
equipment, containment vessels, etc., during servicing or prior to disposal.
Recycling5 : The reuse of a recovered controlled substance following a basic
cleaning process such as filtering and drying. For refrigerants, recycling normally
involves recharge back into the original equipment. It often occurs “on-site”.
Reclamation 6 : The reprocessing and upgrading of a recovered controlled
substance through such mechanisms as filtering, drying, distillation and chemical
treatment, in order to restore the substance to a specified standard of performance.
It often involves processing “off-site” at a central facility.
Stratosphere: The part of the earth’s atmosphere above the troposphere, at
about 15 to 60 kilometers (9 to 38 miles). The stratosphere contains the ozone
layer.
Transitional substances: Under the Montreal Protocol, a chemical whose use
is permitted as a replacement for ozone-depleting substances, but only temporarily
due to the substance’s ODP or toxicity.
Page - 109
Ultraviolet radiation (UV): Radiation from the Sun with wavelengths between
visible light and X-rays. UV-B (280-320 nm) is one of three bands of UV
radiation, is harmful to life on the Earth’s surface, and is mostly absorbed by the
ozone layer.
United Nations Development Programme (UNDP): One of the Multilateral
Fund’s implementing agencies.
United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP): Through the UNEP TIE
OzonAction Programme, UNEP is one of the Multilateral Fund’s implementing
agencies.
United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO): One of the
Multilateral Fund’s implementing agencies.
UNEP TIE: United Nations Environment Programme Division of Technology,
Industry and Economics (located in Paris, France).
Vienna Convention: The international agreement made in 1985 to set a
framework for global action to protect the stratospheric ozone layer. This
convention is implemented through its Montreal Protocol.
World Bank: Formally known as the International Bank for Reconstruction
and Development, it is one of the Multilateral Fund’s implementing agencies.
1 Montreal Protocol, Article 1 (August 1993).
2 1994 HTOC Report, page 60.
3 1994 HTOC Report, page 60.
4 Montreal Protocol, Decision IV/24 of the Parties.
5 Montreal Protocol, Decision IV/24 of the Parties.
6 Montreal Protocol, Decision IV/24 of the Parties.
Page - 110
About the UNEP TIE OzonAction Programme
Nations around the world are taking concrete actions to reduce and eliminate emissions of CFCs, halons, carbon tetrachloride,
methyl chloroform, methyl bromide and HCFCs. When released into the atmosphere these substances damage the stratospheric
ozone layer — a shield which protects life on Earth from the dangerous effects of solar ultraviolet radiation. Nearly every country
in the world — currently 170 countries -- has committed itself under the Montreal Protocol to phase out the use and production of
ODS. Recognizing that developing countries require special technical and financial assistance in order to meet their commitments
under the Montreal Protocol, the Parties established the Multilateral Fund and requested UNEP, along with UNDP, UNIDO and the
World Bank, to provide the necessary support. In addition, UNEP supports ozone protection activities in Countries with Economies
in Transition (CEITs) as an implementing agency of the Global Environment Facility (GEF).
Since 1991, the UNEP DTIE OzonAction Programme has strengthened the capacity of governments (particularly National Ozone
Units or “NOUs”) and industry in developing countries to make informed decisions about technology choices and to develop the
policies required to implement the Montreal Protocol. By delivering the following services to developing countries tailored to their
individual needs, the Programme has helped promote cost-effective ODS phase-out activities at the national and regional levels:
Information Exchange
Provides information tools and services to encourage and enable decision makers to make informed decisions on policies and
investments required to phase out ODS. Since the 1991, the Programme has developed and disseminated to NOUs over 100
individual publications, videos, and databases that include public awareness materials, a quarterly newsletter, a web site, sectorspecific technical publications for identifying and selecting alternative technologies and guidelines to help governments establish
policies and regulations.
Training
Builds the capacity of policy makers, customs officials and local industry to implement national ODS phase-out activities. The
Programme promotes the involvement of local experts from industry and academia in training workshops and brings together local
stakeholders with experts from the global ozone protection community. UNEP conducts training at the regional level and also
supports national training activities (including providing training manuals and other materials).
Networking
Provides a regular forum for officers in NOUs to meet to exchange experiences, develop skills, and share knowledge and ideas with
counterparts from both developing and developed countries. Networking helps ensure that NOUs have the information, skills and
contacts required for managing national ODS phase-out activities successfully. UNEP currently operates 4 regional and 3 subregional Networks involving more than 109 developing and 8 developed countries, which have resulted in member countries taking
early steps to implement the Montreal Protocol.
Refrigerant Management Plans (RMPs)
Provide countries with an integrated, cost-effective strategy for ODS phase-out in the refrigeration and air conditioning sectors.
RMPs have evolved to meet the specific need to assist developing countries (especially those that consume low volumes of ODS)
to overcome the numerous obstacles to phase out ODS in the critical refrigeration sector. UNEP TIE is currently providing specific
expertise, information and guidance to support the development of RMPs in 40 countries.
Country Programmes and Institutional Strengthening
Support the development and implementation of national ODS phase-out strategies especially for low-volume ODS-consuming
countries. The Programme is currently assisting 91 countries to develop their Country Programmes and 76 countries to implement
their Institutional-Strengthening projects.
For more information about these services please contact:
Mr. Rajendra Shende, Chief, Energy and OzonAction Unit
UNEP Division of Technology, Industry and Economics
OzonAction Programme
39-43, quai André Citroën
75739 Paris Cedex 15 France
Email: [email protected]
Tel: +33 1 44 37 14 50 - Fax: +33 1 44 37 14 74
http://www.unepie.org/ozonaction.html
Page - 111
About the UNEP Division of Technology, Industry and Economics
The mission of the UNEP Division of Technology, Industry and Economics is to help decision-makers in
government, local authorities, and industry develop and adopt policies and practices that:
•
•
•
•
•
are cleaner and safer;
make efficient use of natural resources;
ensure adequate management of chemicals;
incorporate environmental costs;
reduce pollution and risks for humans and the environment.
The UNEP Division of Technology, Industry and Economics (UNEP TIE) located in Paris, is composed of one
centre and four units:
The International Environmental Technology Centre (Osaka), which promotes the adoption and use of
environmentally sound technologies with a focus on the environmental management of cities and freshwater basins,
in developing countries and countries in transition.
Production and Consumption (Paris), which fosters the development of cleaner and safer production and
consumption patterns that lead to increased efficiency in the use of natural resources and reductions in pollution.
Chemicals (Geneva), which promotes sustainable development by catalysing global actions and building national
capacities for the sound management of chemicals and the improvement of chemical safety world-wide, with a
priority on Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) and Prior Informed Consent (PIC, jointly with FAO)
Energy and OzonAction (Paris), which supports the phase-out of ozone depleting substances in developing
countries and countries with economies in transition, and promotes good management practices and use of energy,
with a focus on atmospheric impacts. The UNEP/RISØ Collaborating Centre on Energy and Environment supports
the work of the Unit.
Economics and Trade (Geneva), which promotes the use and application of assessment and incentive tools for
environmental policy and helps improve the understanding of linkages between trade and environment and the role
of financial institutions in promoting sustainable development.
UNEP TIE activities focus on raising awareness, improving the transfer of information, building capacity, fostering
technology cooperation, partnerships and transfer, improving understanding of environmental impacts of trade
issues, promoting integration of environmental considerations into economic policies, and catalysing global chemical
safety.
For more information contact:
UNEP Division of Technology, Industry and Economics
39-43, Quai André Citroën
75739 Paris Cedex 15, France
Tel: +33 1 44 37 14 50
Fax: +33 1 44 37 14 74
Email: [email protected]
http://www.unepie.org
Page - 112
I
Halons Sector Organisations
A. FIRE PROTECTION ORGANISATIONS
Aircraft Rescue & Fire Fighting Working Group (ARFFWG)
ARFF Working Group
1701 W. Northwest
Highway, Grapevine
Texas 76051
U.S.A.
Tel: (1) 817 329-5092
Fax: (1) 817 329-5094
Email: [email protected]
Web Site: http://www.arffwg.org/
All Union Fire Research Institute
143900 Moscow region
Balashikha-6
Vniipo
Russian Federation
Tel: (7) 095 512 26 22
Fax: (7) 095 512 26 22
Australian Fire Authorities Council (AFAC)
PO Box 620, Box Hill
Victoria 3128
Australia
Tel: 61 3 9899 5088
Fax: 61 3 9899 5096
Email: [email protected]
Web Site: http://www.ausfire.com/
Canadian Fire Safety Association (CFSA)
2175 Sheppard Avenue East
Suite 310
North York, Ontario M2J 1W8
Canada
Tel: (1) 416 492 9417
Fax: (1) 416 491 1670
Email: [email protected]
Page - 113
Centre National de Prévention et de Protection (CNPP)
5, rue Daunou
75002 Paris
France
Tel: (33) 1 42 61 57 61
Fax: (33) 1 49 27 09 43
Comité de Fabricantes de Extintores de la SNI
De Rivero Industrias S.A.
D. Felipe de Rivero
Tingo Maria 1350
Lima 01, Peru
Tel: (511) 425 8380
Fax: (511) 425 8380
Danish Institute of Fire Technology
Datavej 48
DK-3460 Birkerod
Denmark
Tel: (45) 45 82 00 99
Fax: (45) 45 82 24 99
Fire Protection Industry Association of Australia (FPIAA)
PO Box 1049
Box Hill, VIC, 3128
Australia
Tel: +61 (0) 3 9890-1544
FAX: +61 (0)3 9890-1577
Email: [email protected]
Fire Protection Registration Board (FPRB)
Ms. Carmel Coate, National Secretary
22-28 Fitzroy Street
PO Box 2106
St Kilda West VIC 3182 - AUSTRALIA
Tel: (613) 9593 8782
Fax: (613) 9593 8784
Page - 114
Halon Alternatives Research Corporation (HARC)
2111 Wilson Boulevard
Suite 850
Arlington, Virginia 22201
Tel: (1) 703 524 6636
Fax: (1) 703 243 2874
Email: [email protected]
Web Site: http://www.harc.org
Loss Prevention Association of India
Warden House
Sir Pherozeshah Mehta Road
Bombay 400 001
India
Tel: (91) 22 287 3460
Fax: (91) 22 287 4129
Loss Prevention Council (LPC)
140 Aldersgate Street
London EC1A 4HY
England
United Kingdom
Tel: (44) 71 606 3757
Fax: (44) 71 600 1487
National Association of Fire Equipment Distributors NAFED
One East Wacker Drive
Suite 3600
Chicago, IL 60601-4267
USA
Tel: (1) 312 923 8500
Fax: (1) 312 923 8509
Email: [email protected]
Web Site: http://www.nafed.org
National Fire Protection Association
I Batterymarch Park
Quincy, Massachusetts 02269-9101
U.S.A.
Tel: (1) 617 770 3000
Fax: (1) 617 770 0700
Web Site: http://www.nfpa.org
Page - 115
Society of Fire Protection Engineers (SFPE)
7315 Wisconsin Avenue
Suite 1225W
Bethesda MD 20814
Tel: (1) 301 718 2910
Fax: (1) 301 718 2242.
Email: [email protected]
Web Site: http://www.sfpe.org
B. PUBLIC SECTOR AND NON-PROFIT HALON BANKS
Australia
Ms. Susanne Clarke, National Manager Halon Bank
DAS Centre for Environmental Management (DASCEM)
P.O. Box 285
World Trade Centre, Victoria 3005
Australia
Tel: (61-3) 9649-7406
Fax: (61-3) 9649-7410
Canada
Mr. George Unger, Project Engineer (English Language)
Mr. Claude Travers, Project Engineer (French Language)
Underwriters’ Laboratories of Canada
7 Crouse Road
Scarborough, Ontario M1R 3A9
Canada
Tel: (1) 416 757 3611
Fax: (1) 416 757 3948
Denmark
Mr Eric Berner, Director
Danish Halon Banking System, Ltd.
Holtelandsvej 2
DK-4652 Haarlev
Denmark
Tel: (45) 53.68.55.27
Fax: (45) 56.28.55.17
Page - 116
France
Mr Denis Vignon
Comité Technique Français Halons Environnement (CTFHE)
Secrétariat: CNPP
BP 2265
27950 Saint-Marcel
France
Tel: (33) 2.32.53.64.12
Fax: (33) 2.32.53.64.60
India
Mr H.S. Kaparwan, Jt. Director
Defence Institute of Fire Research
Brig. S.K. Mazumdar Road, Timarpur
Delhi - 110054
India
Tel: (91) 11-252-0255
Fax: (91) 11-291-9547
E-mail: [email protected]
Japan
Mr Hiroyuki Mitsui
Halon Recycling and Support Committee, Japan
Kuwata Building
5-3-14 Sotokanda
Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 101
Japan
Tel: (81) 3-3832-2402
Fax: (81) 3-3836-3353
Malaysia
Mr. Wan Mohd. Nor bin Ibrahim
Fire & Rescue Services Department
Malaysia Jalan Maharajalela
50648 Kuala Lumpur
Tel: (60) 3 2486362
Fax: (60) 3 2420773
Email: [email protected].
Page - 117
Netherlands
Mr Robert C. Basart
Coöperatieve Vereniging Halonen, U.A.
Varrolaan 100; Utrecht
PO Box 8138
3503 RC UTRECHT
The Netherlands
Tel: (31) 302 588 688
Fax: (31) 302 588 600
Norway
Mr. Arne Iversen
Bergen Renholdsverk, Spesialavfallsstasjon Flesland Jekteviken 5
5010 Bergen
Norway
Tel: (47) 55-22-91-33
Fax: (47) 55-99-14-32
Russian Federation
Dr Nikolai P. Kopylov
All-Russian Research Institute for Fire Protection (VNTIPO)
143900 Moscow Region
Balashina 3
Russian Republic
Tel: (7) 095 521-2700
Fax: (7) 095 521-2622 or 529-8566 or 529-8160 or 529-8252
Email: none
South Africa
Mr. Peter Davey
The Halon Bank of Southern Africa
P.O. Box 15165
Impala Park 1472
South Africa
Tel: (27) 11-397-2538
Fax: (27) 11-397-2539
Page - 118
Sweden
Ms Kristina Lindgren
Climate Change and Ozone Depletning Secretariat
Swedish Environmental Protection Agency
S-106 48 Stockholm
Sweden
Tel: (46) 8 698 11 57
Fax: (46) 8 698 14 75
Email: [email protected]
Switzerland
Dr Walter Brunner
Envico AG
Heinrichstrasse 147
CH-8031 Zürich
Switzerland
Tel: (41) 1-272-7475
Fax: (41) 1-272-8872
Email: [email protected]
United Kingdom
Mr Brian Dale, Executive Manager
The Halon Users National Consortium Limited
46 Bridge Street
Goldalming
Surrey GU7 1HL
United Kingdom
Tel: (44) 483 414147
Fax: (44) 483 414109
Email: [email protected]
http://www.hunc.org
United States
Mr. Tom Cortina, Executive Director
Halon Recycling Corporation
2111 Wilson Boulevard
Suite 850
Arlington, Virginia 22201
United States
Tel: (1) 703-524-6636
Fax: (1) 703-243-2874
Email: [email protected]
Page - 119
Venezuela
Dr. Eduardo Lopez
FONDOIN
San Bernardino - Av. Cecilio Acosta
Quinta Puchin, No. 55 - Planta Alta
Caracas
Venezuela
Tel: (58) 2-519-684
Fax: (58) 2-519-684
Email: [email protected]
B. PRIVATE SECTOR HALON BANKS
CONTROL FIRE SYSTEMS LIMITED (Canada)
Mr. Adam T. Richardson, President
Control Fire Systems Ltd.
63 Advance Road, Building “A”
Toronto, Ontario M8Z 2S6
Canada
Tel: (1) 416-236-2371
Fax: (1) 416-233-6814
DUPONT (United States)
Mr. Jehu T. Burton
DuPont Fluoroproducts
Barley Mill Plaza 13-1101
P.O. Box 80013
Wilmington, Delaware 19880-0013
United States
Tel: (1) 302-892-1351
Fax: (1) 302-992-4163
Email: [email protected]
FRC INTERNATIONAL, INC. (United States)
Mr. Richard Marcus
FRC International Inc.
6150 Merger Drive
Holland, Ohio 43528
United States
Tel: (1) 419-867-8990
Fax: (1) 419-867-3279
Page - 120
C. MILITARY HALON BANKS
DoD OZONE DEPLETING SUBSTANCES RESERVE (United States)
Mr. Ron Sibley, Program Manager
U.S. Department of Defense, Ozone Depleting Substance Reserve Defense
General Supply Center
8000 Jefferson Davis Highway
Richmond, Virginia 23297-5230
United States
Tel: (1) 804-279-4525
Fax: (1) 804-279-4970
Page - 121
J
Multilateral Fund Secretariat, Implementing Agencies and
UNEP Ozone Secretariat
Multilateral Fund Secretariat
Dr. Omar El Arini, Chief Officer
Secretariat of the Multilateral Fund for the Montreal Protocol
27th Floor, Montreal Trust Building
1800 McGill College Avenue
Montreal, Quebec H3A 6J6
Canada
Tel: (1) 514 282 1122
Fax: (1) 514 282 0068
Email: [email protected]
Implementing Agencies
Ms Jacqueline Aloisi de Larderel, Director
UNEP TIE OzonAction Programme
39-43, quai Andre Citroën
75739 Paris Cedex 15
France
Tel: (33 1) 44 37 14 50
Fax: (33 1) 44 37 14 74
Email: [email protected]
Email: http://www.unepie.org/ozonaction.html
Mr Frank Pinto, Principal Technical Adviser and Chief
Montreal Protocol Unit
United Nations Development Programme
1 United Nations Plaza
United Nations
New York, N.Y. 10017
United States
Tel: (1) 212 906 5042
Fax: (1) 212 906 6947
Email: [email protected]
http://www.undp.org/seed/eap/montreal
Page - 122
Mr. Angelo D’Ambrosio, Managing Director
Industrial Sectors and Environment Division
United Nations Industrial Development Organization
Vienna International Centre
P.O. Box 300
A-1400 Vienna
Austria
Tel: (43) 1 26026 3782
Fax: (43) 1 26026 6804
Email: [email protected]
Mr. Steve Gorman, Unit Chief
Montreal Protocol Operations Unit
World Bank
1818 H Street N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20433
United States
Tel: (1) 202 473 5865
Fax: (1) 202 522 3258
Email: [email protected]
UNEP Ozone Secretariat
Mr. K.M. Sarma, Executive Secretary
UNEP Ozone Secretariat
PO Box 30552
Nairobi
Kenya
Tel: (254 2) 623 855
Fax: (254 2) 623 913
Email: [email protected]
http://www.unep.org/unep/secretar/ozone/home.htm
Page - 123