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Safety First: Pre-Mixing or Pre-Dissolving Pool Care Products
June 2010
by Carole Hicks, Arch Chemicals Customer Care Center
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Arch Chemicals is committed to the safe use of our products and we are committed to taking precautions in labeling and educating consumers about the proper use and handling of our pool care products. While the purpose of the chemicals is to make the water safe and clean for swimming, these products can also be harmful if the directions are not followed. Contamination or improper use of pool care chemicals may cause decomposition (fire), spatter (a quick release of product) or the release of toxic gases.
Therefore, there are specific recommended guidelines on Arch Chemical labels that are meant to serve as a “heads up” for safe handling, storage and use of these chemicals so that our consumer families can enjoy a fun and safe swimming pool season.
One practice that Arch Chemicals’ labels clearly warn against is the pre-mixing or pre-dissolving of products prior to adding to the swimming pool. It is always a good idea for consumers to completely read the instructions or directions before using any chemicals. On Arch Chemical products, you will notice our STOP sign advising this very important recommendation.
Pool care chemicals are meant to be added to “large” amounts of water, rather than adding water to the chemicals. Too often consumer calls that come through the Arch Chemicals Emergency Action Network (ACEAN) have involved pool care owners who have pre-mixed or pre-dissolved product in a small bucket and experienced the physical effects of inhaling fumes generated by this process. Some consumers have been ill-advised or assumed that it is necessary to pre-mix or pre-dissolve in order for the chemicals to work properly. However, if the water chemistry is properly balanced according to industry recommended levels and the filtration system is in good working order, sanitizing chemicals will perform very well when added according to the directions on the label.
Most pool owners take great care of and are very meticulous about maintaining this investment in their homes. Doing so will provide a summer full of fond memories and fun times for friends and family. This care involves making sure everyone is safe while sitting around the pool and swimming in the pool. Our focus is to make sure the pool owner is safe as well while performing that weekly pool care maintenance.
Pool owners who have questions or concerns about how to use Arch Chemicals products, may contact us through Ask The Expert or LIVE PERSON CHAT on the brand web sites. Telephone numbers are also listed on the labels to contact the Customer Care Center, seven days a week, from 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM. The Arch Chemicals Emergency Action Network, (ACEAN) is 1-800-654-6911, and is available 24/7 to offer product information and technical assistance with CHEMICAL or MEDICAL emergencies.
