- Ozone Depleting Substances
Ozone depleting Substances
Ozone Depleting Substances (ODS), such as chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and Halon, deplete the stratospheric ozone layer that protects the earth from ultraviolet rays (UVB). Ultimately, UVB rays are harmful to the environment, and prolonged exposure can have a detrimental effect on health. CFCs are found in refrigeration and air conditioning systems and were once used as an active agent in aerosols. Halon is used in some portable and engineered fire extinguishing systems.
Our objective is to replace all systems and products that contain ODS with environmentally-friendly substitutes and to minimize their release into the atmosphere. We continue to rely on the following highly successful measures:
CFCs
- Only CFC-free aerosols may be used in the company.
- CFCs were replaced with nitrogen to detect leaks under cable sheaths.
- The use of efficient procedures to recover refrigerants from building or vehicle air conditioning systems. We ensure that our employees or service suppliers are trained and licensed to operate refrigeration equipment.
Since 1996, we have converted or dismantled 108 chillers that contained CFCs. The program was completed in 2005.
HALON
Halon 1301
- Since 1989, Bell has reduced its use of Halon 1301 by 65%. Bell wireline and wireless businesses still use approximately 40,000 kg of Halon 1301 in their fire protection systems.
- Recovered Halon 1301 from fire protection systems is sent to an approved external agency for reuse by authorized companies, as per regulations.
- We are progressively installing Very Early Warning Fire Detection Systems at key central offices to replace Halon. When the systems are used in conjunction with the power down function they provide effective fire protection. Transition to the Very Early Warning Fire Detection System started in 2002, and is now used at 17 sites.
Halon 1211
- Portable fire extinguishers that contain Halon 1211 are replaced with water, CO2 or dry chemical extinguishers.
