The use of chlorine-containing compounds for the disinfection of swimming pools leads to the formation of various disinfection by-products. When chlorine-containing compounds react with user-generated pollutants (sweat, urine, etc.), halogenated hydrocarbons, including chloramine and are produced. Based on the solubility of the chloramines formed, trichloramine (nitrogen trichloride) is the most likely to be found in swimming pool atmospheres.

These chlorinated disinfection by-products (DBPs) can cause eye irritation and other complaints from swimmers as well as stress-induced corrosion of stainless steel components in the pool area. Acute exposure to chloramines can produce itchy, watery eyes and respiratory tract irritation, while chronic exposure can lead to the development of childhood asthma as well as occupational asthma for swimming pool workers. Epidemiologists are also investigating the role of airborne chemicals in indoor pool environments, especially trichloramine, and the rise in childhood asthma in the developing world.

Chloramines can also lead to stress corrosion cracking of stainless steel structures, leading to safety or building structural concerns.

There are several factors that can affect chloramines concentrations in indoor swimming pools, including proper treatment of pool water, temperature and pH, number of swimmers, hygiene practices, type of pool and accessories (waterfalls, slides, etc.), size of the building, water replacement and ventilation rate for the building.

If you are an indoor swimming pool operator, and are interested in arranging for an evaluation of indoor concentrations of chloramines, please fill out our request a quote form and we will get back to you with more information or call 1 (204) 981-7690 to discuss your requirements.