Halon is a fire fighting agent that was introduced into Australia in the early 1970s. It quickly replaced many previously accepted fire fighting products because of its superior fire fighting characteristics and ease of use.
However, Halon is also a potent ozone-depleting substance. Just one kilogram of Halon 1211 (usually found in hand held fire extinguishers) can destroy 50 tonnes of ozone.
Due to this, it has been illegal to own, or use, halon-based fire protection systems in Australia since 1995, unless for an approved essential use. Approved essential use of halon are for situations where fire risk poses a danger to human life, and there is no acceptable alternatives to halon. This means that halon is still used in certain situations, including:
- Commercial and private aviation
- Ocean going shipping, including foreign flagged vessels operating in or through Australian waters
- Defence applications
Because they are illegal, it has also been illegal for fire protection technicians to service non-essential halon systems since 1995.
All safety equipment needs to be serviced regularly. Therefore since halon-based systems are illegal and it’s illegal to service them, there is a significant risk that if you have a halon extinguisher, it won’t operate correctly in a time of emergency. When you need it most.
How do I know if I have a halon fire extinguisher?
Halon fire extinguishers are generally colour coded yellow.
Since 1997, fire extinguishers in Australia are generally red with a coloured band near the neck of the extinguisher. This means halon fire extinguishers should stand out clearly in your workplace or home.
I have a halon fire extinguisher, what do I do?
People are encouraged to surrender their halon fire extinguisher for safe disposal. The National Halon Bank operates a free call service to advise on the disposal of halon. Call 1800 658 084 to arrange the disposal of any halon product.
Alternatively, extinguishers can be surrendered to most metropolitan fire stations or fire protection companies who hold an Extinguishing Agent Trading Authorisation.
WLSS are licenced to test and tag your fire equipment and emergency lighting. Not only are our workers trained and qualified, we are also a FPA Australia FPAS Recognised Business. What does this mean? We are one of only a few businesses in Adelaide, who are a part of the Fire Protection Australia’s only nationally harmonised accreditation system, the Fire Protection Accreditation Scheme. For more information on FPA Australia and FPAS, click here.