Pool Chlorine Storage Regulations

Chlorine is one of the most common chemicals used to keep pool water clean. Gaseous chlorine is the most common way to use chlorine in large swimming pools, according the Environmental Protection Agency. The chlorine is stored in cylinders containing 100 to 150 pounds of chlorine. Used to kill bacteria and other organisms in the water, it can very dangerous if it is stored carelessly. Contact with it can cause burns or death. Here are some guidelines for proper storage.

  1. Dangers

    • Improperly stored, chlorine can mix with water and cause fires and explosions. Inhaling the gaseous chlorine also can cause death. If chlorine comes into contact with skin, eyes, the respiratory system or the digestive system, it will cause injury. Chlorine will also react if it comes into contact with perspiration, tears, mucus or saliva. Also, if chlorine is improperly mixed, the same dangers can also occur.

    Keep It Dry

    • While chlorine is used to clean water, it is used with a large volume of water. If a small amount of water comes into contact with chlorine, however, the resulting reaction can trigger the release of toxic gas and an increase in temperature. You need to make sure the containers used to store chlorine stay undamaged and as far from water sources as you can manage.

    Possible Water Sources

    • Chlorine can come into contact with moisture through a variety of means. This includes: leaking roof, broken windows, wet floors, fire suppression system leak or water used during a cleanup. Even humidity caused by the heat of summer can cause a reaction.

    Improper Mixing

    • Pool chemicals, including chlorine, should be kept separated because they are incompatible with each other. Make sure that pool chemicals are stored away from flammable materials particularly gasoline, oil, solvents and oily rags. Machines such as lawn mowers, motors or welding machines should not be stored with pool chemicals because of the danger of improper mixing.

    Personal Protective Equipment

    • Keep personal protective equipment nearby to use in the handling of chemicals like chlorine. Basic personal protective equipment includes chemical goggles, liquid-impervious gloves and liquid-impervious boots. Additional protective equipment that can be added include face shields and liquid-impervious aprons or coveralls.

    Consult Local Agencies

    • You will need to contact your state environmental agency to find out any specific regulations and guidelines your state might require. They likely will follow the EPA regulations, but there may be variations in distances required between items and needed equipment.