Managing fire protection issues in an aluminium rolling mill within the confines of the Montreal Protocol

Gulf Aluminium Rolling Mill (GARMCO) is an aluminium rolling mill located in the heart of the Gulf that produces in excess of 100 000 tons of flat aluminium sheet annually. We are a critical link in the aluminium production chain that has become increasingly important as Bahrain strives to diversify away from oil related industries. In September 2000, GARMCO received an award from the Ministry of the Environment of Bahrain at the celebration of the International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer. The award commends GARMCO for working positively towards the elimination of ozone depleting substances and encouraging the use of ozone friendly technology. This paper summarises how GARMCO has developed solutions that address the phasing out of the Halon 1301 fire extinguishing medium, under the directions of The Montreal Protocol and its amendments, whilst retaining loss prevention integrity.