http://erd.dli.mt.gov/safetyhealth/brochures/halon.pdf
Halon hazards include:
! Asphyxiation - Although unlikely to occur during use of a single fire extinguishing unit, exposure
to high concentrations of halon gas may cause an oxygen deficient atmosphere.
! Flying Projectile - If the cylinder is mishandled and the pressure is released in an uncontrolled
manner, the cylinder can act as a projectile causing serious injury or death to people working with
the cylinder or bystanders in the vicinity.
! Cold Temperature - Direct contact with the vaporizing liquid being discharged will have a strong
chilling effect and can cause frostbite burns to the skin.
! Central Nervous System (CNS) - Inhaling high concentrations of halon gas can cause dizziness,
tingling in extremities, and in severe cases, unconsciousness.
! Cardiovascular Effect - Exposure can cause cardiac sensitization. Cardiac sensitization occurs
when a chemical causes an increased sensitivity of the heart to adrenaline producing sudden lifethreatening,
irregular heartbeats and even heart attack, in severe cases.
! Irritation of exposed skin and eyes may also result from exposures to halon.
Decomposition products of halon can be very toxic. The decomposition takes place when halon is exposed
to a flame or to a hot surface at or above 900 degrees F. During decomposition the atoms of the halon
molecule breakdown and can create high concentrations of toxic gases. Before entering into an area where a large fire was extinguished, toxic atmosphere tests should be done to ensure safe entry and occupancy of the area.
By itself halon present a low hazard but when combined with out hazardous situation it can be a major
problem. If workers must enter into a space with limited ventilation the atmosphere must be tested for
oxygen levels. If the oxygen level is below 19.5% than the space is considered oxygen deficient and a selfcontained
breathing apparatus (SCBA) is required.
BTW, Halon, being a CFC is being phased out, and hasn't been manufactured since 1994. It is still legal to use and recharge Halon systems, but once the current stocks are gone, they're gone. It's still legal to evacuate and recycle "used" halon, and has become a fairly large industry.
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