Learn What to Expect and How to React to a Clean Agent System Discharge
When you’re protecting critical spaces like a data center, museum archive, telecommunications hub, or pharmaceutical facility, you need a fire protection system you can trust. That’s where clean agent fire suppression systems come in.
At Century Fire Protection, we install and service these systems every day. They’re safe for occupied spaces, leave no messy residue behind after discharge, and they are incredibly effective at protecting sensitive equipment. But like any fire protection system, knowing how clean agent systems work — before you need them — is key to staying safe and keeping your assets protected.
Here’s what you need to know.
What is a Clean Agent Fire Suppression System?
A clean agent fire suppression system uses a gaseous agent to quickly extinguish fires without damaging sensitive equipment or leaving residue. It’s people-safe when designed and used properly, making it ideal for environments where downtime or cleanup just isn’t an option.
While clean agents are safe for humans at design concentrations, it's important to remember: they are chemical systems. They need to be handled with respect and a clear understanding of their operation.
Why You Should Know Your System’s Sequence of Operations
Every clean agent system follows a Sequence of Operations — a step-by-step process the system goes through during an emergency.
You’ll usually find this posted near the control panel. Make sure you’re familiar with it. Understanding the Sequence of Operations before an incident happens helps you respond faster and more confidently if an alarm or discharge occurs.
Emergency Signals: How to Recognize an Alarm or Discharge
Clean agent systems use a combination of alarms and flashing lights to let you know what’s happening. Knowing what each signal means can help you act quickly and safely.
Here’s a breakdown:
First Alarm:
A bell sounds (you’ll see this in our free Clean Agent System Discharge Procedures download). This means one smoke detector has picked up smoke. It's an early warning sign that something could be wrong.
Second Alarm / Pre-Discharge:
A chime strobe flashes. This signals that multiple detectors have picked up smoke or that someone has activated the manual release. The system will start a 30-second countdown to discharge.
Discharge:
A strobe light flashes outside the protected space. This means the clean agent has been released inside.
Want a full visual guide? Download our free Quick Reference for Clean Agent Discharge Procedures resource.
How to Respond to an Alarm or Discharge Condition
If an alarm activates or the system discharges, here’s what to do:
- Exit the protected space immediately and close the door behind you.
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- If you're inside, stay away from the ceiling-mounted nozzles — the clean agent is released at extremely high pressure.
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- Notify the proper authorities that there’s been a fire event.
- Do not re-enter the space for at least 10 minutes to allow the system to suppress the fire fully.
- Call for professional fire suppression service right after the incident. (Contact us to find a Century Fire office near you!)
Important: If you’re outside the room when the alarm sounds, do not open the door — let the clean agent system work as designed.
Sometimes, you might spot smoke or fire before the system detects it. That’s why clean agent fire suppression systems are
equipped with a Manual Release Station. Also, false alarms happen and that’s why many clean agent systems come with a Manual Abort Station to stop the discharge of agent when no fire condition is present.
You can find the Manual Release Station location and more visuals in our free download: Quick Reference for Clean Agent Discharge.
Why Understanding Clean Agent Fire Protection Procedures Matters
Whether you’re safeguarding a rare library collection, critical telecommunications infrastructure, or a high-value data center, knowing how your clean agent fire suppression system works is critical to protecting people, property, and operations.
Educating your team ahead of time means they’ll know how to react quickly and safely when every second counts. If you want to talk to a Alarm and Special Hazard specialist, reach out. We're here to help!
Want a complete visual guide to clean agent system emergency devices, alarms, and manual controls? Download our free Clean Agent System Discharge Procedures guide.