Halon is a liquefied, compressed gas that stops the spread of fire by chemically disrupting combustion. Halon 1211 (a liquid streaming agent) and Halon 1301 (a gaseous flooding agent) leave no residue and are remarkably safe for human exposure. Halon is most effective for flammable liquids and electrical fires (rated B:C) and is electrically non-conductive.

Because Halon is a CFC, the production of new Halon ceased in 1994. There is no cost effective means of safely and effectively disposing of the Halon that has already been produced, therefore recycling and reusing the existing supply intelligently and responsibly to protect lives and property is the best solution.

While the production of Halon ceased on January 1, 1994 under the Clean Air Act, it is still legal to purchase and use recycled Halon and Halon fire extinguishers. In fact, the FAA requires all commercial aircraft to exclusively use halon.

Halon 1211 fire extinguishers actually require less year-to-year maintenance than the more common dry-chemical fire extinguishers. Dry chemical fire extinguishers tend to settle and "brick up" over time due to moisture and gravity, and this in turn sets up a dangerous situation whereby much of the powder-extinguishing agent is unable to be propelled from the cylinder. Halon 1211, because of its liquid form, is free of such issues.

Every year, the Halon extinguisher should be inspected: the pressure gauge should be visually checked to verify adequate pressure, the nozzle should be visually checked to be sure there are no obstructions, and the cylinder should be weighed to meet the manufacturer's weight requirement. Halon 1211 requires a six year maintenance and a 12 year hydrostatic test by a licensed fire service professional.

Because Halon is a CFC, the production of new Halon ceased in 1994. There is no cost effective means of safely and effectively disposing of the Halon that has already been produced, therefore recycling and reusing the existing supply intelligently and responsibly to protect lives and property is the best solution.

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