Which statement is correct about using Halon as a fire suppression agent in data centers?

Question

Options

• AIt is lethal to humans.
• BIt damages the ozone layer.
• CIt is corrosive to computer equipment.
• DIt is conductive and may cause computer faults.

• A
  6% (3)
• B
  78% (38)
• C
  2% (1)
• D
  14% (7)

Explanation

Halon (specifically Halon 1301) was once the gold standard for data center fire suppression because it is non-conductive, leaves no residue, and is safe for humans at typical firefighting concentrations - which rules out options A, C, and D. However, Halon contains bromine and chlorine atoms that, once released into the atmosphere, catalytically destroy ozone molecules in the stratosphere, making B correct and why production was banned under the Montreal Protocol in the 1990s. Option A is wrong because Halon 1301 at fire-suppression concentrations (~5–7%) is not lethal and is considered human-safe for brief exposure. Option C is wrong because Halon is actually prized for being clean and residue-free, posing no corrosion risk to electronics. Option D is wrong because Halon is a gas and non-conductive - it's water-based systems that risk electrical faults.

Memory tip: Think "Halon = Ozone Hole-on" - the substance that puts out fires punches a hole in the ozone layer. If you remember why it was banned (Montreal Protocol → ozone depletion), the correct answer follows automatically.

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