Cooling Technology Institute (CTI), Houston, suggests that users treat all water treatment chemicals as if they were hazardous. However, CTI also believes that any chemical can be safely handled if the following precautions are followed.

First:

  • Read the label and material safety data sheets for detailed handling information.
  • Ask your supervisor if you have questions about safe handling.

Never:

  • Smoke while working with chemicals.
  • Eat while working with chemicals.
  • Touch or swallow chemicals.
  • Wipe skin or eyes with hands or cloth that has contacted chemicals.
  • Wear contact lenses while working with chemicals.

Always:

  • Protect your eyes with splash-proof goggles or a face shield.
  • Wear rubber or plastic gloves, apron and boots if required.
  • Know where the nearest safety shower, eyewash station or hose station is located.

    If you come in direct contact with chemicals, follow these emergency first-aid procedures and always alert your supervisor.

    • Eye contact - Immediately flush with water for 15 min. Call a physician.
    • Skin contact - Flush with water for 15 min. Call a physician.
    • Inhalation - Remove yourself from exposure to the fumes. Call a physician.
    • Clothing contact - Immediately remove contaminated clothing and shoes. Wash separately from regular laundry before using again.

    If a chemical spill occurs:

    • Avoid breathing fumes.
    • Alert coworkers and supervisors.
    • Wear protective equipment.
    • Cover with inert absorbent material.
    • Contain the spill and consult product label and materials safety data sheets.

    Following these recommendations for handling water treatment chemicals safely will prevent serious problems related to direct contact or inhalation of chemicals. For more about water treatment safety, call CTI at (281) 583-4087.