A recently published study is renewing concerns about toxic disinfection byproducts (DBP) in swimming pools and spas. The study, published in Environmental Science & Technology (2016, Vol. 50, 6652-6662), included researchers from the University of South Carolina, Purdue University, and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Though previous studies have shown a link between exposure to DBP and the occurrence of asthma and bladder cancer, this study documents the effects of DBP on mutagenicity (changes in DNA).
The researchers determined that increases in natural organic matter increased both DBP levels and mutagenic potency in most of the pools and spas they examined. They also identified over 100 DBP as well as a new class of DBP called bromoimidazoles. In addition to these new findings, this research confirms that increased levels of organic contamination lead to increased DBP concentrations, which can ultimately result in adverse health effects for those exposed to these toxic DBP.
One of the main benefits of using The Moss™ is its ability to reduce the organic contamination in swimming pools, spas, and other water systems. The reduction of organic matter in the water directly leads to a reduction in chemical needs as well as reducing DBP in the water and in the air. This results in reduced costs for the facility and healthier water and air for patrons and employees.
For more information on this study, see the link to the article. For more information on The Moss, see the Resources page
