Potential Harm from Halon - Essay Example

It has been found, that Halon agents, not only contributes to the depletion of the ozone layer but also causes potential harm to people exposed to this substance. Inhalation of vapors of this product may also affect the cardiovascular and central nervous system and in extreme cases may even cause death (Kidde Aerospace, 2007). Perhaps the most poisonous element on this compound is Methanol which if ingested may cause irregular heartbeat, headache, dizziness, visual disturbances and blindness.

As stated in the safety data sheet of Halon, Prolonged exposure to methanol may cause reproductive harm and heart, kidney, liver, and nerve damage. Other symptoms of prolonged exposure to this compound include nausea, vomiting, irregular heartbeat, symptoms of drunkenness, disorientation, bluish skin color, and convulsions which are all the after-effects of a heart and nervous system condition (Kidde Aerospace, 2007). Because this agent also effectively cools the temperature of any object it becomes proximate with, the usage of Halon also causes other side effects.

If Halon comes in contact with the liquid of this product, it will cause frostbite to the eyes. Contact to the skin would also cause frostbite to the skin (Kidde Aerospace, 2007).