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 Health
Bureau 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