Developing a Chlorine Emergency Control Plan

A chlorine leak or spill usually occurs unexpectedly and demands an immediate response. Consequently, chlorine emergency planning is an essential part of the overall emergency plan of most water treatment plants. There is no set formula for developing a chlorine emergency control plan. Every chlorine consuming site has its own set of conditions that require special consideration. This article contains guidelines to help in the development of the general details of an emergency plan. Subjects covered include: organizing the plan, responsibility, community relations, media relations, types of releases, assessing the emergency, communications and training, emergency equipment, first aid, updating the plan, and post emergency critique. Sources of information to aid in chlorine emergency planning are also listed.