FirePro, [REDACTED] fire extinguishers

The reports, as CPSC published them

1. No one hurt

   Made Dec 11, 2024 · , sent to the company Jan 3, 2025 · , published by CPSC Jan 23, 2025

   The product, in the report: Aerosol fire extinguishers and fire suppression systems utilize condensed aerosol technology to suppress fires by inhibiting the chemical reactions responsible for combustion. These systems are designed for use in various environments, including industrial, commercial, and residential settings. Key Specifications: Technology: Condensed aerosol discharge for fire suppression. Operation: Releases fine particles and gases that interrupt combustion processes. Standards Compliance: Certified to meet UL 2775 and NFPA 2010 standards. Applications: Suitable for protecting electrical and mechanical equipment, storage facilities, and other critical assets. These systems are engineered to provide effective fire suppression with minimal residue, meeting regulatory standards for safety and performance.

   Subject: Urgent Appeal for Regulatory Action on the Toxicity Hazards of Aerosol Fire Extinguishers I am writing to you following the recommendation of [REDACTED] at the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, to bring to your attention a critical and under-recognized issue regarding the toxicity hazards associated with aerosol fire extinguishers. This concern is particularly relevant to devices certified under NFPA 2010 and UL 2775 standards and produced by leading manufacturers such as FirePro and [REDACTED]. Current regulatory frameworks lack adequate safeguards, leaving a significant gap in toxicological oversight that directly endangers public and occupational safety. Key Concerns 1. Absence of Mandatory Toxicological Testing Current standards, including NFPA 2010 and UL 2775, do not mandate comprehensive toxicological assessments for aerosol fire extinguishers. This regulatory omission has allowed the approval and widespread deployment of devices without evaluation of their potential health hazards during activation. 2. Substituted Test Results Investigations by the UKs Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MIAB) have documented instances where manufacturers submitted substituted toxicological test data to regulatory authorities. This malpractice perpetuates the use of devices that pose severe risks to human health. Refer to MIAB findings [REDACTED]. 3. Lethal Hazards in Non-Fire Scenarios Unintentional activation of aerosol fire extinguishers in confined spaces has been shown to release toxic gases at concentrations exceeding permissible exposure limits for carbon monoxide (CO) by up to 331 times. These incidents have caused fatalities due to asphyxiation, underscoring the immediate danger posed by such devices. 4. Increased Toxicity During Fires When activated during fire events, aerosol extinguishers contribute toxic byproducts indistinguishable from standard combustion gases. This complicates investigations and conceals their role in fatalities, as deaths are often attributed solely to fire-related toxicants. Proposed Actions 1. Mandatory Toxicological Testing Introduce mandatory toxicological evaluations for aerosol extinguishers in both U.S. and international safety standards. These evaluations must establish stringent limits for toxic gas concentrations during and after discharge to ensure user safety. 2. Investigation of Standards Compliance Conduct a thorough review of the testing data submitted by manufacturers for compliance with existing standards. Implement robust enforcement mechanisms to prevent approval of untested or misrepresented products.

   3. Comprehensive Analysis of Incident Data Undertake detailed reviews of fire-related fatalities involving aerosol extinguishers to differentiate their toxicological contributions from standard combustion byproducts. This data will be instrumental in addressing regulatory gaps. Support and Collaboration I am prepared to provide detailed documentation, including independent toxicological assessments, incident reports, and recommended testing protocols, to support your efforts in addressing this issue. Collaboration on these measures is essential to ensure the safety of individuals in workplaces, residences, and public spaces. The Consequences of Inaction Failure to address this critical safety gap will leave thousands of individuals, including sailors, miners, office workers, and passengers, exposed to preventable risks. Addressing this issue now will not only save lives but also enhance the credibility and effectiveness of fire safety regulations worldwide. I respectfully urge you to prioritize this matter and welcome the opportunity to discuss how we can work together to implement these critical safety measures. Please do not hesitate to contact me to request additional information. Sincerely, [REDACTED] [REDACTED]

   Model

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   Serial number

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   Where

   United Kingdom: Other

   Who was involved

   Unspecified

   The reporter’s relation to them

   Unspecified

   As this report names them

   Brand FirePro, [REDACTED], made or sold by Halma Plc

   How badly, in CPSC’s words

   Incident, No Injury

CPSC’s disclaimer

Sources