Avoiding Catastrophe While Storing Swimming Pool Chemicals

Chlorine agents and acids are common swimming pool chemicals for controlling water quality. Unfortunately, these chemicals are incompatible. Catastrophic consequences can occur if proper swimming pool chemical storage is not implemented.

How Do Swimming Pool Chemicals Work?

Chlorine agents release chlorine into pools when mixed with water. Chlorine agents are oxidizers and release oxygen during reactions with other chemicals. This creates an explosive environment and can accelerate a fire. Chemicals for pools react when mixed with a large quantity of water. A small volume of water falling onto stored pool chemicals can also cause a reaction. Highly corrosive substances can result as well as the release of toxic chemicals like chlorine gas.

Compatibility Problems with Swimming Pool Chemicals

Unintentional mixing of pool chemicals may lead to unexpected chemical reactions and fire risk. There is the added danger of the release of toxic fumes. Store incompatible materials separately to minimize these risks. Do not store flammable liquids like gasoline or diesel with pool chemicals.

Keep dirty or oily rags out of the pool chemical storage area. Keep chemicals dry and the storage facility free of any drips, leaks or condensation. Always consult the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) information for each swimming pool chemical to develop proper storage for pool chemicals.

Handling Swimming Pool Chemicals

Always use dedicated tools when handling chemicals for pools. Accidents may occur when the same dispensing tool is used for one chemical and then another. This precaution also applies to equipment used to clean up spills. Never sweep up spilled chemicals into a single container. Never let containers sit on the ground – utilize a containment sump or shelves for smaller containers.

Wear personal protective equipment (PPE) when handling swimming pool chemicals. Chlorine reacts with moisture in the human body to cause discomfort and injury. Bodily moisture such as sweat reacts with chlorine gas to form an acid that burns body tissues. Safety goggles, protective gloves and face shields are standard PPE for working with pool chemicals. Use a respirator in cases where dust or vapors are present. Certain pool chemicals are flammable, so it’s always recommended to use caution when dispensing or moving them.

(Swimming) Pool Chemical Storage Tips From U.S. Chemical Storage

Store chemicals for pools in a cool, dry location that is well-ventilated to prevent the buildup of hazardous gases. To prevent unauthorized access(/a>, always keep pool chemicals in a locked, fire-rated chemical storage building.

U.S. Chemical Storage provides pool chemical storage buildings that meet pool chemical storage regulations. Leak-proof secondary containment prevents a spill from mixing with other swimming pool chemicals.

Climate-controlled buildings prevent excessive temperatures from affecting the contents. Passive ventilation or the use of an exhaust fan are also available.  

Order Your Pool Chemical Storage Building Today

Contact U.S. Chemical Storage to learn more about pool chemical storage or to receive a complimentary quote. Our professional consultants can advise you on the best solution for your application as well as the pool chemical regulatory requirements that are relevant to your industry.

References

• American Chemistry. An Industry Initiative To Keep Pool Swimming Safe
• Environmental Protection Agency. Chemical Safety Alert: Safe Storage and Handling of Swimming Pool Chemicals