Aquatic Center responded to reports of bleach odor

Chehalem Aquatic and Fitness Center was closed from approximately 11:20 a.m. until noon Tuesday, Nov. 20th, as emergency response agencies, together with CPRD staff, investigated reports of a chlorine-like odor released by the routine filtration process in the competition pool.

At the time, about 15 students from Sherwood High School Swim Team were using the facility. Reports say when two bubbles released from the filtration system and rose through the water and popped at the surface, an odor was released that was similar to that of household bleach, causing concern from students and the swim team coach. The coach called 9-1-1. As a precaution, Chehalem Park and Recreation District staff closed the facility, and local responders arrived in minutes.

TVF&R evaluated six students who exhibited minor respiratory irritation. As a precaution, five were transported to the local hospital for further evaluation.

What was released through bubbles was sodium hydrochlorite, a chlorine derivative which smells like household bleach, which is used in the disinfection system.

The response team – TVF&R, Haz Mat Team, and health authorities, working together with CPRD staff – was able to reproduce what had occurred, while testing chlorine levels in the water, and those levels showed no elevation. (The water bodies in this facility are treated with UV light and other filtration, as well as chlorine-treated water.)

The facility was cleared of concern and reopened at noon. Swim lessons were delayed until 1:30 p.m.

CPRD supports the precautionary measures taken and appreciates the quick and diligent response by emergency responders. Staff will continue to monitor the equipment and the process of filtration, thoroughly evaluate the incident, and make any adjustments if necessary.

"We are happy that no one was injured, and the system performed as we thought that it would," said CPRD superintendent Don Clements. "We appreciate the response of all people involved in ensuring the health and safety of our patrons."