Overview
EN 15073:2013 is a European Standard developed by CEN that specifies requirements for sodium dichloroisocyanurate, dihydrate-a key chemical used in the treatment of swimming pool water. The standard defines product characteristics, purity criteria, safety guidelines, labeling, transportation, and storage requirements for sodium dichloroisocyanurate, dihydrate. The scope of EN 15073:2013 applies to both direct use of the chemical and its employment in commercial swimming pool water treatment formulations.
Complying with this standard ensures the chemical's effectiveness as a pool disinfectant while addressing health, safety, and environmental considerations in accordance with current European and international regulations.
Key Topics
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Product Identification and Properties
- Chemical name: Sodium dichloroisocyanurate, dihydrate (also known as Troclosene sodium, dihydrate)
- Empirical formula: C3Cl2N3NaO3·2H2O
- CAS number: 51580-86-0
- Available in granular or tablet form with a characteristic chlorinous odor
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Purity and Composition Requirements
- Minimum 55% available chlorine (by mass fraction)
- Maximum 14% water content
- Strict limits on impurities such as arsenic, cadmium, chromium, lead, mercury, and others
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Test Methods
- Sampling and analytical methods as per EN 12932
- Detailed procedures for assessing purity and chemical parameters
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Labelling, Transportation, and Storage
- Must be labeled according to Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008, including relevant hazard statements (e.g., H302, H400)
- Classified as dangerous goods (UN 3077, Class 9) for transport by road, sea, air, and rail
- Guidelines for proper packaging, marking, and storage to ensure stability and safety
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Safe Handling and Emergency Procedures
- Never mix with other chlorine products
- Instructions for first aid, spillage management, and fire response
Applications
Sodium dichloroisocyanurate, dihydrate is widely used as a disinfectant in swimming pools due to its ability to release free chlorine (hypochlorous acid) in water. Its main applications include:
- Direct disinfection of pool water-either by manual dosing or with automated dosing systems
- Commercial pool treatment formulations-used by pool maintenance services and water treatment companies
- Maintaining pool hygiene and clarity-controls microbial contamination, oxidises organic pollutants, helps remove odours and colours, and prevents the growth of algae and harmful microorganisms
When used as prescribed, sodium dichloroisocyanurate, dihydrate ensures reliable water disinfection. However, attention must be given to monitor levels of cyanuric acid, as excessive concentrations can result in reduced disinfecting efficiency.
Proper adherence to the standard's storage and handling recommendations extends the product’s shelf life, maintains its effectiveness, and ensures the safety of operators and users.
Related Standards
Professionals involved in water treatment and pool maintenance may also need to consider these related standards:
- EN 12932: Chemicals used for treatment of water intended for human consumption-specifically outlines testing for sodium dichloroisocyanurate, dihydrate.
- Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008: Pertains to the classification, labeling, and packaging of substances and mixtures in the EU.
- Directive 98/8/EC: Relates to the marketing of biocidal products across the European Union.
- Directive 98/83/EC: Establishes water quality parameters for water intended for human consumption.
Adhering to EN 15073:2013 and related standards ensures regulatory compliance, optimizes swimming pool water quality, and supports public health and environmental safety goals within the European regulatory framework.