How Bleaching Powder Disinfects Water and Safety Tips

The disinfection action of bleaching powder is not from the powder itself, but from the powerful disinfecting agent it releases when mixed with water.

1. Reaction with Water: When bleaching powder (containing Ca(OCl)₂) is dissolved in water, it reacts to form Hypochlorous Acid (HOCl).
2. Oxidizing Agent: Hypochlorous acid is a highly potent oxidizing agent.
3. Killing Pathogens: This acid (HOCl) easily penetrates the cell walls of pathogens like bacteria, viruses, and protozoa. Once inside, it attacks and oxidizes their essential enzymes and proteins, effectively destroying the microorganism and making the water safe to drink.

The strong smell of chlorine in freshly treated water is due to the presence of this active hypochlorous acid.

Important Safety Tips

• Ventilation: Always use bleaching powder in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling the strong chlorine fumes.
• NEVER Mix with Acids:Do NOT mix bleaching powder with acids (like vinegar, toilet bowl cleaners, or lemon juice). This causes a violent reaction that releases large amounts of highly toxic chlorine gas (Cl₂), which can be fatal.
• NEVER Mix with Ammonia: Do not mix with ammonia or products containing ammonia (like some glass cleaners). This produces toxic chloramine gas.
• Protective Gear: Wear rubber gloves and eye protection. Bleaching powder is corrosive and can cause severe skin irritation, chemical burns, and eye damage.
• Ingestion: Never ingest. It is poisonous. Keep it stored securely away from children and pets.