Comparison of Domestic and International Technical Standards: Study on Improvement of Quality Control of Halogenated Fire Extinguishing Agents

Recently, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) announced the revised standards for halogen compound fire extinguishing facilities (NFPA 2001). Characteristically, it is strengthening the quality control standards for halogenated fire extinguishing agents, by presenting specific standards regarding the effects of not only their main ingredient, but also their additional ingredients on the human body. However, in Korea, halogen compound fire extinguishing agents used for firefighting purposes are managed by designating “purity” as the sole criteria for inspection. Considering that halogen compounds utilized for other purposes in Korea are undergoing quality control through various inspections for the safety of humans and the environment, it is evident that a higher level of quality control is required for halogen compounds used for firefighting purposes. Therefore, we would like to suggest a specific improvement plan to enhance safety while using halogenated fire extinguishing agents, through the comparative analysis of inspection criteria, and acceptance standards of corresponding domestic and foreign standards.