Pool Chemical Storage: Special Lights Needed?

Pool chemical storage rooms are subject to aggressive materials and more restrictive building code requirements. The International Building Code (IBC) describes a high-hazard occupancy as one that involves the manufacturing, processing, generation, or storage of materials that constitute a physical or health hazard. Proper lighting is essential in these rooms to ensure that chemical labels can be read and to maintain a safe and healthy environment. While there are no special lights required, adequate lighting is necessary to ensure that storage and handling are done correctly.

Ventilation and lighting requirements

Proper ventilation and lighting are crucial aspects of maintaining a safe pool chemical storage room. Well-ventilated and well-lit storage areas are essential to prevent accidents and ensure the safety of staff and patrons. Here are the detailed requirements for ventilation and lighting in a pool chemical storage room:

Ventilation:

• Ventilation is necessary to prevent the buildup of hazardous gases: Pool chemicals, especially chlorine, can release toxic gases like chlorine gas when stored improperly or exposed to moisture. Ventilation dilutes and removes these gases, reducing the risk of inhalation by staff and patrons.
• Passive ventilation or exhaust fans: To maintain adequate ventilation, you can utilise passive ventilation, which relies on natural airflow, or install exhaust fans to forcibly remove gases and vapours from the storage room.
• Emergency HVAC cutoffs: If chemicals are stored in the pump room, it is crucial to have emergency HVAC cutoffs. This will allow you to quickly isolate the ventilation system in case of a chemical spill or release of toxic gases.

Lighting:

• Durable and efficient lighting: When working with hazardous materials, it is essential to have durable and efficient lighting in the entire chemical storage room. Proper lighting ensures visibility and safety for staff handling the chemicals.
• Explosion-proof lighting: As pool chemicals can create an explosive environment, it is recommended to use explosion-proof lighting fixtures. These lights are designed to prevent sparks and reduce the risk of igniting dust, gases, vapours, or fibres in the air.
• Non-explosion-proof lighting: In areas where explosion-proof lighting is not required, you can use non-explosion-proof interior lights. These lights are still built to adhere to regulations and are typically made with die-cast aluminium, silicone gaskets, and thermal shock-resistant soda lime glass.
• Light fixture placement: The placement of light fixtures depends on the size of the chemical storage room, the mounting height of the fixtures, and photometrics (lumens per fixture). Ensure that fixtures do not obstruct movement or access to other equipment.
• Emergency lighting: Depending on local regulations, you may need battery backup emergency lighting to illuminate an egress path in case of a power outage.

Avoiding direct sunlight and extreme temperatures

To avoid direct sunlight and extreme temperatures in a pool chemical storage room, there are several measures you can take:

Firstly, ensure the room is well-ventilated. Proper ventilation will help regulate temperature and prevent the buildup of hazardous gases. This can be achieved through passive ventilation or the use of exhaust fans. Mechanical ventilation is recommended, with a minimum rate of one CFM per square foot of floor area over the storage area.

Secondly, maintain temperature levels by avoiding areas with high humidity and direct sunlight. Keep the room temperature below 95º F (35º C). You can prevent direct sunlight from heating the room by using window treatments such as high-quality curtains, shades, or blackout variants. Alternatively, heat-reflecting film can be applied to windows; this reduces glare and blocks solar energy without obstructing your view.

Additionally, consider planting trees or shrubs outside the windows to block direct sunlight. This is a long-term solution, as it may take several years for the plants to grow to an effective height. In the meantime, you can use vine plants to grow up the side of the building for some shade.

Finally, keep air circulating within the storage room. Ceiling fans or box fans are inexpensive options to promote air circulation and dissipate heat. Ensure the fans are turned on during hot weather to help regulate the temperature.

By implementing these measures, you can effectively avoid direct sunlight and extreme temperatures in your pool chemical storage room, creating a safer and more comfortable environment.

Using the correct containers

It is also important to note that each chemical should have its own labelled measuring cup or scoop. This helps to prevent cross-contamination and ensures that the correct amount of each chemical is used.

Pool chemicals should be stored on a flat, raised surface, such as a pallet, rather than on the floor. This helps to keep the chemicals dry and prevents corrosion and the release of noxious gases. Additionally, avoid stacking chemical containers directly on top of each other, as this can increase the risk of spills and make the storage area unstable.

When storing pool chemicals, it is crucial to separate incompatible chemicals. For example, chlorine and acid should never be stored side by side. Liquids should not be stored above solids, and oxidizers and acids should be kept apart.

To summarise, using the correct containers and following the guidelines outlined above will help ensure the safe and proper storage of pool chemicals, reducing the risk of accidents, spills, and chemical reactions.

Preventing access to children and animals

Pool chemicals, such as chlorine and acid, are hazardous substances that require careful storage to prevent incidents, injuries, and chemical reactions. One of the most important aspects of chemical storage is preventing access to children and animals. Here are some measures to achieve this:

Firstly, always store hazardous chemicals in a secure, locked area that is out of reach and sight of children and animals. Place them in high locations or use safety locks on cabinets and drawers. This is crucial because children are naturally curious and may ingest or play with chemicals if they are accessible. Similarly, animals may be attracted to the chemicals and accidentally ingest them.

Additionally, proper disposal of chemicals is essential. Avoid throwing chemicals into household trash bins as children or animals may come across them. Instead, dispose of them directly into outside garbage storage containers to prevent poisoning accidents.

When handling and storing pool chemicals, ensure that they are kept in a well-ventilated area to prevent the buildup of hazardous gases. This is important not only for safety during storage but also to prevent fumes from escaping and harming children or animals in the surrounding area.

Another crucial aspect of preventing access is to use dedicated tools and equipment when handling pool chemicals. Never use the same dispensing tool for multiple chemicals, and always clean up spills with the appropriate equipment. By doing so, you reduce the risk of accidental exposure to children and animals.

Lastly, education and awareness are vital. Ensure that anyone handling pool chemicals is well-trained and knowledgeable about the chemicals' properties and potential hazards. Understanding the risks associated with each chemical will enable individuals to take the necessary precautions to prevent access and promote a safe environment for children and animals.

Handling and safety equipment

Training and Certification

Before handling any pool chemicals, ensure that you are properly trained and certified in pool operation. Even with training and certification, it is important to recognise your limitations and seek assistance from more experienced operators if needed.

Reading Labels and SDS Sheets

Carefully read the product label and Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for each chemical. Labels provide essential information about the chemical's identity, hazards, and reactive properties. Understanding this information is crucial for preventing incidents. Memorise your facility's Emergency Chemical Spill Response Plan and be prepared to act accordingly in case of a spill.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

When handling pool chemicals, always wear appropriate PPE, including gloves, safety goggles, a face shield, and a respirator if there is dust or vapours present. Dress with safety in mind: cover your skin and wear closed-toe shoes.

Ventilation and Lighting

Always handle chemicals in a well-ventilated area to prevent the buildup of hazardous gases. Mechanical ventilation may be required, as specified by relevant building codes. The chemical storage room should be well-lit, allowing for easy reading of labels on containers.

Storage Practices

Store pool chemicals in a cool, dry, and locked location, away from direct sunlight, heat sources, doors, windows, flammable materials, and water. Keep chemicals off the floor, using anchored shelves or pallets to prevent containers from falling. Incompatible chemicals, such as acid and chlorine, must be stored separately to prevent accidental mixing. Always store chemicals in their original, sealed containers, and ensure liquid chemicals are stored lower than other chemicals to prevent spills.

Handling Practices

When handling chemicals, only open one product at a time and keep others sealed. Minimise splashes and dust from powder chemicals. Never mix chemicals, as this can lead to toxic reactions. Pre-dissolving and mixing should only be done when directed by the product label, and always add the chemical to water, never water to the chemical. Use dedicated tools for each chemical to prevent accidental mixing.

Spill Response

In the event of a chemical spill, act immediately. Follow your facility's Emergency Chemical Spill Response Plan, and contact management and the appropriate authorities for guidance.

Disposal

Dispose of chemicals safely and responsibly by following the product label instructions. Never reuse containers, and contact a state or local hazardous waste agency for guidance on disposing of unlabeled chemicals.

Frequently asked questions