What is a concern when a CO2 system activates?

When a CO2 system activates, the primary concern is the potential danger to life. Carbon dioxide is an asphyxiant, meaning that it displaces oxygen in the atmosphere, which can lead to suffocation if the gas concentration becomes too high. In confined spaces or poorly ventilated areas, the rapid release of CO2 can create an immediate hazard for anyone present who may be unable to escape the environment quickly. This is particularly critical in firefighting scenarios, as the intent of the CO2 is to suppress the fire, but the safety of personnel must always be a priority.

While other concerns, such as electrical shock or changes in humidity, may arise depending on specific circumstances, they do not pose the same immediate life-threatening risk associated with CO2 itself. Increasing fire risk is also not a direct concern of CO2 activation, as the system is designed to extinguish fires, not exacerbate them. Thus, the primary focus on life safety makes the significant risk to life the most relevant factor when considering the activation of a CO2 firefighting system.