What steps should be taken if an existing Halon extinguishing system is currently being used in a facility?
Currently, there are no government regulations that require the decommissioning of existing Halon fire-suppression systems. And, recycled Halon is available to refill a system, if needed. This supply of recycled Halon will not last forever. As such, building owners should consider replacing Halon with an alternative agent in the near future. • Should carbon-dioxide extinguishing systems be considered to protect special hazards? Carbon-dioxide systems are very effective at extinguishing fires in most combustible materials. When used in total flooding applications (hazards that are enclosed), however, these systems produce lethal concentrations of carbon dioxide in the protected space. Consequently, carbon dioxide is not recommended for use as an extinguishing agent in normally occupied spaces. • What are the common types of gaseous agents that have been developed as alternatives to Halon? There are two common types of gaseous agents that are considered replacements to Halon: halocarbon
