When added to water, chlorine breaks down to produce two chemicals: one kills bacteria almost instantly and the second remains in water to remove any bacteria introduced by the new swimmers. In spas, it is not possible to drain and refill again a pool or hot tub at each arrival of new swimmers, so not only the water must be sterilized before filling a pool, but must also remain clean all day. This aspect is essential cleaner, with the use of the pool by swimmers who bring new bacteria.
What are the alternatives?
The two alternatives to chlorine in swimming pools are the most popular filter and UV ozone generators.
UV Filter
Water can be irradiated by ultraviolet rays that eliminate existing bacteria. This method can sanitize the water entering the basin, but has no persistent properties and therefore does not kill bacteria in water made by the new swimmers.
Ozone
Ozone is an excellent oxidizer and can be used for clean water. As with UV filtration, ozone allows only sanitize the water enters the pool and does not provide residual solution.
Neither ozone nor UV treatment are not solutions in themselves. They must be used in combination with a disinfectant that remains in the water. Therefore, although these methods are intended to be alternatives to chlorine, they must be used with a small amount of chlorine added to water to meet safety standards. However, as the amount of chlorine used is very low, these solutions deviate quite the risk of excessive chlorination and its effects.
What are the dangers of chlorine?
The greatest risk associated with the use of chlorine is a misuse, where the chlorine is not properly controlled. When chlorine is used correctly, the health risks are minimal and therefore the main risk depends on the person who is responsible for paying the chlorine quantity in the basin proper.
If the amount of chlorine in the pool is correct the pH of the pool (which measures acidity of the water) will have a value of 7.4 corresponds to the pH of your own tears. However, if the amount is not correct, it can cause the appearance of strong chemical odors, sore throat, skin irritation and redness of the eyes.
The cosmetics and body lotions and creams can also cause problems because of certain ingredients in these products that can react with chlorine, becoming irritating. If you have bleached hair or highlights, which turn green in the pool, this is probably due to the presence of copper in water, implying that the pH is too high (erosion of material copper) or algaecides Copper-based are used, chlorine is not responsible in this case.
Respiratory effects
Some studies have suggested that children may be more likely to develop asthma if they regularly swim in pools treated with chlorine. When the chlorine is too high, sweat, skin and other organic compounds can react with chlorine, producing trihalomethanes, harmful gases which can cause irritation to eyes, skin and respiratory system. Studies show that children of European countries, where indoor chlorinated swimming pools are easily accessible, have a higher rate of respiratory problems such as asthma or wheezing than in the less developed regions. However, these results indicate the likely effects of over-chlorination, but does not suggest that a low concentration of chlorine is harmful.
It has been proven to be beneficial for children with asthma to exercise in warm humid air in a pool because it is less likely to trigger symptoms and swimming provides significant benefits for health. So, rather than preventing your child to swim, just try to be vigilant regarding any signs of over-chlorination. The concerns are much less important for adults, a developed body being less likely to be affected.
Damage to the environment
As media attention has begun to focus on the negative impact we have on our planet, you're probably aware of information that suggest adverse effects of chemicals such as chlorine. However, industrial uses are causing these problems because the concentrations of chlorine in bathing water (one cup and drinks) are too small to have such an impact. Swimming pools are rarely emptied directly into nearby rivers because sewage systems channel the water to treatment plants or drains. Although we can not deny that chlorine can have negative effects on the environment, you're likely to introduce more chlorine into the environment by watering your garden as a temporary stay at the spa.
What are the advantages of chlorine?
Bacteria in an unchlorinated pool are more likely to damage your health than chlorine itself and the benefits of swimming and bathing far outweigh any negative evidence. Over-chlorination can make your eyes irritated but if you consider the fact that chlorine eliminates micro-organisms that cause diseases such as dysentery, hepatitis A and cholera, it is easier to see the benefits of this view.
Where can I learn more?
Your local swimming pool or spa can tell you exactly how their water is cleansed. Just be alert for any signs of superchlorination.
Tips
• Do not forget to take a shower before and after entering the basin
• remove any makeup, body lotion, sunscreen and hair products before entering the water
• Beware of a basin that emits a strong chemical smell
• swallow a little water as possible
• pay attention to any irritation of the skin or eyes
• monitor the occurrence of any irritation or wheezing that your child might feel just after bathing.