Fact Sheet: Swimming Pool Chemicals--Safe Storage, Handling and Emergency Response
- This Fact Sheet is available in Portable Document Format (PDF, 120KB)
Safe Storage Design
- Store pool chemicals in a cool and dry location away from heat, direct light, doors, windows, flammable materials, and water. Comply with building codes.
- Store each chemical separately and in the original container, in a location with adequate lighting for reading labels on containers.
- Keep chemicals off the floor and store chemicals on anchored shelves with lips, or on pallets to prevent chemical containers from falling.
- Store only identical chemicals above or below each other. This prevents chemical mixing, in case of a leak.
- Keep chemicals in a locked storage area to limit access, especially to children and animals.
Safe Handling
- Read product label and directions before each use. Follow manufacturer's instructions.
- Use clean and dry personal protective equipment and a separate tool for handling each chemical.
- Keep water away from all chemical containers to prevent accidental mixing of water and chemicals.
- Clean-up pool chemical spills immediately. Consult your local fire department for guidance.
- Dispose of deteriorating, unwanted, or unlabeled pool chemicals safely. Contact your local hazardous waste disposal facility for more information.
Adjusting Chemical Levels
- Know your pool chemical levels before making an adjustment. Test pool water and adjust pool chemistry with products that are not expired.
- Always add a pool chemical to water. Never add water to a pool chemical.
- Dissolve solid chemicals (tablets, powders or crystals) in water before adding to pool water.
- Follow protective measures, such as wearing appropriate personal protective equipment and using clean and dry tools to handle chemicals.
Emergency Response
- If victim has difficulty breathing:
- Move victim to fresh air.
- Call 9-1-1.
- If chemical comes in contact with eyes:
- Flush eyes with running water.
- Call 9-1-1.
- If chemical comes in contact with skin:
- Remove any contaminated clothing.
- Flush skin with running water.
- Call 9-1-1.
For Additional Information
Send your questions and comments to bcehfp@health.ny.gov, or contact Swimming Pool staff at:
Center for Environmental HealthBureau of Community Environmental Health & Food Protection
Empire State Plaza-Corning Tower, Room 1395
Albany, New York 12237 Phone: (518) 402-7600
Fax: (518) 402-7609