MARCH 4, 2015
CLEVELAND, OHIO
Two Holiday Inn hotel workers were transported to a local
hospital after mixing the wrong pool chemicals this morning.
According to Cleveland Fire Lt. Larry Gray, the workers
mixed two acids and a chemical cloud formed in the pool area.
Another employee noticed the two workers and drove them to
Fairview Hospital. The condition of the workers is believed to be non-life
threatening.
The Cleveland Fire Department arrived on scene to the
Holiday Inn near Cleveland Hopkins Airport and cleared the scene.
The chemical cloud was contained to the pool area.
There were no other employees or hotel guests affected.
//-----------------------------------------//
POOL CHEMICALS AND
YOUR HEALTH
A pool manager was mixing chemicals in the pool house to
treat a pool and there was a reaction causing an explosion. The maintenance
assistant was cleaning the pool when the explosion occurred.
He went into the
pool house and was exposed to fumes. Both workers became ill and were taken to
the emergency department. The manager had symptoms of eye irritation, coughing
and skin burns and the assistant had symptoms of coughing and difficulty
breathing. Pool chemicals were mixed in
pails with residues of other chemicals still present inside
Swimming pool maintenance requires the addition of pool chemicals
such as chlorine tablets, shock, algaecides, clarifiers, and pH balancers.
These chemicals can be dangerous if not mixed and stored correctly. Under
certain conditions they can release toxic vapors or cause explosions. For example,
accidents can occur when a chemical gets wet or mixed with the wrong chemical.
Use these chemicals with care! Here are some things to keep in mind.
TIPS
Mixing Pool
Chemicals:
·
Follow label and safety information.
·
Use a clean and dry mixing location.
·
Use a well-ventilated space, away from gusts of
wind.
·
Use separate mixing tools and containers for
each chemical.
·
Handle one chemical at a time, even when
cleaning up.
·
Wear protection according to the label.
·
Keep all chemicals away from water unless directed
by label
Storage of Pool
Chemicals:
·
Seal containers completely.
·
Store away from children, use safety locks.
·
Store in a waterproof location.
·
Store away from flammable materials and cleaning
supplies