Dust buildup led to chlorine leak

A buildup of dust that caused a valve to remain open went unnoticed, leading to a chlorine gas leak at a Taranaki public swimming pool, an investigation has found.

The TSB Pool Complex in Stratford had to be evacuated and closed on Sunday, December 20, after a 70kg chlorine gas bottle was found to be leaking in the chlorine shed. Fire and Emergency New Zealand (Fenz) was alerted about 1.45pm and crews from Stratford, New Plymouth and Toko were called to the pool, which is owned and operated by Stratford District Council.

Chlorine gas can cause breathing difficulties and skin irritation, and while there were about 15 to 20 swimmers using the pool at the time, there were no reports of any injuries.

A formal investigation was carried out, and the incident was highlighted in the council’s audit and risk committee meeting this week

The chlorine was pouring out of the tank due to a malfunctioning valve, which remained open as a result of dust buildup, the meeting agenda said.

‘‘Dust had been allowed to accumulate as [a] fine gauze inside the regulator was missing and overlooked during a cylinder change by a staff member,’’ the agenda read.

‘‘WorkSafe were notified of the incident but, after subsequent discussion, did not find it necessary to investigate further.’’

The council said it had measures in place to ensure this would not happen again, including making staff check for the gauze.

It has also bought and installed emergency shut off valves.

Councillors were told another formal investigation was carried out after aggressive action by a pool patron toward a staff member.

‘‘This again reinforces the need to avoid staff working by themselves and shows that we are exposed to many external factors,’’ the report said.

‘‘The patron is yet to be trespassed.’’