A Review of the Toxicology of Halogenated Fire Extinguishing Agents

Bromotrifluoromethane Halon 1301, bromochlorodifluoromethane Halon 1211, and chlorobromomethane Halon 1011 were evaluated for toxicity and toxic hazards. The most important toxicological effects of these compounds are on the central nervous and cardiovascular systems. The neurological effects are manifested as alterations of perception and a reduction in reaction time and the ability to concentrate on complex intellectual tasks. The cardiovascular effects are manifested as changes in cardiovascular dynamics and the electrical activity of the heart. Clinically important central nervous system effects generally appear at lower levels of exposure than clinically important cardiovascular effects. Behavioral changes and performance decrements during exposure would undoubtedly have some effect on the interaction of the subject with his environment, and such consequences of exposure could be life- threatening.