Chlorine is used in water treatment and in the manufacturing process for
paper, plastics, cleaning chemicals and other products. Chlorine is used in
liquid form and as a compressed gas. Because chlorine is a corrosive material,
it can cause irritation when workers breathe it or expose their skin to it. At very
high concentrations, chlorine exposure can cause death after just a few breaths.
Because of the danger of respiratory damage, chemical burns, and death, workers
need to use, store, and handle chlorine properly.
Chlorine is a very reactive chemical. Chlorine will react violently with hydrogen,
acetylene gases, and solvents. These reactions create heat, or an exothermic reaction.
Chlorine reactions with ammonia can create explosive compounds and gases that are
toxic to breathe. Chlorine reacts with metals and heat and can cause fires. In the
presence of water, chlorine can create a highly corrosive and dangerous acid mist.
Because of chlorine reactivity, storage and handling procedures are very important.
Clearly identify chlorine storage areas, storage containers, and process equipment
and lines. Never store chlorine and ammonia in the same building or area. Keep
chlorine isolated and in different rooms from the chemicals that it reacts with.
Store chlorine away from all sources of water to avoid creating acid mists. Keep
chlorine equipment moisture-free. Do not use water to clean up chlorine leaks or
spills.
To prevent chlorine leaks and spills, follow written safe work practices.
Create an inspection and maintenance schedule for all chlorine storage and handling
equipment. Regularly monitor equipment and containers for leaks. Leak detection kits
using ammonium chloride can identify leaks. Have tank and line repair kits available
throughout the worksite.
Be prepared in case of an emergency. Chlorine monitoring alarms
monitor work areas for accidental leaks or spills. Automatic or remote shut-down
capability allows you control of the situation from a distance. Follow written
emergency spill and release plans. Get training and use practice drills for
emergency procedures. Keep containment and spill response kits
available in various areas on site.
Use personal protective equipment (PPE) such as splash goggles,
face shields, gloves, coveralls, and leather boots when working around chlorine.
If necessary, use a respirator to protect your lungs from breathing in chlorine
fumes. Emergency escape respirators should be kept in chlorine use and storage areas
and around the plant in case of an accidental release or spill. There should be
enough PPE for all site workers, contractors, and visitors.
In case of an accidental exposure, move exposed workers to a well-ventilated area.
If workers get splashes of chemicals on the skin or in the eyes, have
emergency eye washes and showers available throughout the facility
in order to provide immediate access to the flushing liquids. Flush eyes and skin
for at least 15 minutes and seek medical treatment after exposures. All employees
that handle or work around chlorine need training in these safe work practices,
exposure control, first aid, PPE, and emergency response.
