Discount Pool Supplies and Spa Supplies

Guidelines for Safe Handling and Storage of Chemicals

The chemicals needed for your pool and spa help keep it clean, disinfected and more attractive to use. But always bear in mind that these chemicals are potentially dangerous and may pose some hazards if not handled properly. Carefully follow all manufacturer's instructions for safest handling of all chemicals.

Here are some tips for safe chemical use and storage:

Usage

• KEEP ALL CHEMICALS OUT OF THE REACH OF CHILDREN.

• Before using chemicals, read the labels and directions carefully. Follow label use instructions.

• Hands should be clean and dry... always wash hands before and after handling chemicals.

• Use plastic, glass, china or enamelware utensils and pails only and be sure they are clean and dry before using...Never use metallic utensils.

• Add chemicals to water. Never add water to chemicals.

• Always add the chemicals directly to the pool water, either in a suitable feeder, distributed across the surface of the pool, or diluted and poured into the water. Follow label use instructions.

• When preparing water solutions for feeder application (e.g., disinfectant or soda ash), pour the chemical slowly into the appropriate amount of water, stirring constantly to mix and dilute.

• Never add chemicals to the pool water while swimmers are using the pool.

• Keep all chemicals out of the reach of children.

• Never mix chemicals together. Use a clean scoop for each chemical, and never combine material from "old" and "new" containers.

• Never reuse old chemical containers.

• Wash out empty disinfectant containers before disposing, to eliminate danger of fire, explosion or poisoning.

• Carefully clean up any spilled chemicals with large amounts of water, to dilute and wash away the chemicals. Check with local authorities before sending disinfectants and pH adjustment chemicals to the sewer as waste.

• Do not inhale dust or fumes from any pool chemicals. If necessary use protective devices for breathing, handling and eye protection. Promptly wash off any residues which get on your skin.

• Test the water in your pool with a reliable test kit on a schedule recommended by your pool professional. As a rule, the more people who use your pool, the more frequently you should test the water. Add the necessary chemicals according to the test results and the manufacturer's instructions.

• Chemicals for test kits should be replaced each year.

• If you have any questions regarding safe handling, storage or use of pool chemicals, contact the manufacturer.

Storage

• Keep all chemicals out of the reach of children.

• Store your pool chemicals in a clean, cool, dry, well-ventilated area preferably off the floor, to prevent contamination from other materials. Especially, do not store chemicals near the pool heater. Keep them away from chemicals and equipment used for garden and lawn maintenance. Keep acids away from other chemicals.

• Keep the original lids on all chemical containers and make sure the lids are closed tightly when not in use.

• Do not stack different chemicals on top of one another.

• Keep liquid chemicals away from dry chemicals. Keep chemicals apart which are different forms of oxidizing compounds. Physically separate all different forms of chemicals.

• Do not store your pool chemicals where other flammable items may mix with them. For example, a mixture of pool chemicals and fertilizer can cause a fire or explosion.

• Wash your hands thoroughly after using.