Greenish-yellow gas with a pungent, irritating odor, chlorine is used effectively for reducing the toxicity of wastewater and treating drinking water. Chlorine and its chemical cousin chlorine dioxide are used extensively as disinfectants in wastewater treatment plans and for water purification, among other applications.
Exposure to chlorine — which may occur when changing chlorine tanks or working in chlorine rooms, among other activities — can cause a host of respiratory problems1 if inhaled. Mild to moderate exposure may produce eye, nose and throat irritation, coughing spasms, a restriction of the upper airway and an accumulation of fluid in the lungs (pulmonary edema) that leads to a choking sensation. More severe exposure can narrow the upper airway so significantly that it causes sudden death. Respiratory failure accounts for the majority of deaths caused by chlorine exposure.2 Choosing proper respiratory protection and conducting a thorough hazard assessment are critical to ensuring worker safety.