It is essential that all chemicals are stored and administered in such a manner that the possibility of cross contamination by splashing or spillage is eliminated, and the opportunity for operator error is eliminated as far as is reasonably practical.
This means that each chemical is stored as far away as is reasonably practical from all other chemicals, in a clearly marked and defined area. Ideally, chlorine and acid are stored in separate rooms, each specifically designed to store chemicals, and with warning signs both on the doors and inside to remind operators which chemical is stored there.
Chlorine and Acid MUST be kept separate to avoid accidental mixing which will generate Chlorine Gas.
Different types of chlorine MUST be kept separate to avoid accidental mixing which may cause fire, explosion or toxic fumes.
Storage Safety Points
- Never store pool chemicals - particularly chlorine, near any gasoline, kerosene, oil, brake/hydraulic fluid, grease, oil-based paint etc.
- Always store Pool chemicals in a secure and safe place, and out of the reach of children.
- Always keep pool chemicals in a completely separate place to other stored items.
- Always store acid and chlorine separately so there is no possibility of each accidently coming in contact with the other.
- Always store pool chemicals in their original containers and in a cool, dark, dry place.
- Always make sure the relevant C.O.S.S.H. and/or Health & Safety Data Sheets are prominently displayed.
Important Safety Warnings
- Never allow any type of chlorine to come into contact with any type of acid, except when in the normal quantities found in pool water as this may result in the creation of Chlorine Gas
- Never allow two different types of chlorine to come into contact when in concentrated form. Fire, Explosion, or Toxic Fumes may result.
- Never, when mixing chemicals, add the water to the chemical. ALWAYS add the chemical to as large a quantity of water as possible. Water added to concentrated chemicals can produce violent reactions.
- Never pour acid down a skimmer. It will rapidly destroy the pool heater and any other metallic components and may enter an Erosion Feeder and generate large quantities of Chlorine Gas.
- Never pour Chlorine granules or liquid down a skimmer if you have an erosion feeder installed.
- Never allow people to stay in the pool while you add chemicals. Commercial pools should have the pool hall or area completely cleared before any chemicals are hand dosed. Always allow time for the chemicals to mix and dilute before letting bathers return to the pool (suggested time - at least 15- 30minutes)
- Test the water in your pool with a reliable test kit regularly. As a rule, the more people who use your pool, the more frequently you should test the water.
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