|
|
 |
|
Introduction
The United Nations 'Montreal Protocol' regarding the protection of the ozone layer has now been signed by over 170 nations including member states of the European Union. One of the implications is the need to reduce the emissions of CFCs (chlorofluorocarbons) and HCFC (hydro chlorofluorocarbons)
Into the atmosphere. CFCs include the halons used in portable fire extinguishers and fixed fire extinguishing systems. These are either Halon 1211 (BCF) of Halon 1301 (BTM)
The European Regulation EC 2037/2000 requires that virtually all uses of Halon for fire extinguishing are curtailed by the end of 2003 and that the halon is removed and destroyed or banked for essential (critical) uses. Failure to comply with the Regulation could result in prosecution. A list of the critical uses is provided in Annex 3 too this fact file.
Implication for the existing Fixed Fire Extinguishing systems.
Existing fire Extinguishing systems cannot be refilled with Halon after the end of 2002. After 2002 it will not be possible to reinstate a system following a halon discharge irrespective of whether this was a discharge to extinguish a real fire or an accidental discharge. It would therefore be prudent to arrange the replacement of existing halon systems as soon as possible. All halon gas, except that installed for the critical used in Annex 3 must be removed for destruction or banking by the end of 2003.
To prevent loss of halon gas during removal, the UK government is looking to recognise competent individuals / companies able to undertake this work. A list will be available on the BFPSA website at www.bfpsa.org.uk. The website also provides details of companies able to replace the halon system with systems using acceptable chemical or inert fire extinguishing gases. |
|
Annex 1: Sources of additional information
A) European Commission Documents
EC regulation No: 2037/2000 This can be found at: www.dti.gov.uk/access/ozone.htm
Other relevant EC information may be found at: www.europa.en.int/comm/environment/ozone/index.htm
B) British Government Documents
Guidance on the new EC regulation 2037/2000 on substances that deplete the ozone layer.
Phase out of halons advice on alternatives for users of fire fighting and explosion protection systems.
These can be found at www.dti.gov.uk/access/ozone.htm |
|
Legislation 2
DEFRA - Industry Volountar Agreement (this is to be published shortly by DEFRA (Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs))
C) Loss Prevention Certificate Board Document
LPR 16 Guide to gaseous extinguishing systems. This can be found at: www.bfpsa.org.uk
D) British Standards Documents
BS 5306-4 Specification for Carbon Dioxide systems.
BS ISO 14520 Gaseous fire extinguishing systems.
These can be obtained form BSI, Telephone 0208 996 9001
E) Local Trading standards Offices
Contact addresses are listed in local telephone directories
Annex 2 Companies able to assist with the removal of fixed halon systems.
These will, in future, be listed on the following website: www.bfpsa.org.uk
Annex 3 Critical uses for Halon 1301
In Aircraft for the protection of crew compartments, engine nacelles, cargo bays and dry bays.
In military land vehicles and navel vessels for the protection of spaces occupied by personnel and engine compartments.
For the making inert of occupied spaces where flammable liquid and / or gas release could occur in the military and oil, gas and petrochemical sector and in existing cargo ships.
For the making inert of occupied manned communication and command centres of the armed forces or others, essential for national security.
For the making inert of spaces where there may be a risk of dispersion of radioactive matter.
In the Channel Tunnel and associated installation and rolling stock. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
