Inergen – also called IG541 – consists of gases, occurring naturally in the atmosphere (nitrogen 52%, argon 40% and carbon dioxide 8%). This means that there is no impact on the environment when a system is activated. No chemicals are used here. The greenhouse effects are zero and there is no impact on the ozone layer.
If a fire occurs, the Inergen system is activated automatically and typically extinguishes the fire within 40 seconds and at the same time prevents re-ignition. The fire is extinguished by Inergen lowering the oxygen level in the protected area from 20.9% to between 12-15%. The low oxygen level suffocates the fire before it develops. This means that you avoid consequential damage to the building, interior, warehouse, data and process equipment, etc. It is totally unique.
It is completely harmless for humans to remain in a room where an Inergen system is activated. You may find that you breathe a little deeper than you usually do. This is because your brain wants the same amount of oxygen as before the system was activated and the oxygen level is lowered. It happens automatically.