The University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown (UPJ) briefly became the scene of a hazmat response this week when a strong chlorine odor spread through the campus’s Zamias Aquatics Center. According to local news reports, staff detected the odor around midday and promptly evacuated the building. Firefighters and hazmat teams responded and traced the smell to the facility’s pool system. Investigators believe that chlorine used to disinfect the swimming pool reacted with another substance in its storage vat, producing vapors that filled the space. Pumps were shut down, air handlers ventilated the building and the pool area remained closed while a third‑party contractor inspected and repaired the equipment. After the air cleared, the rest of the building was reopened and no injuries were reported, but the incident underscores how routine maintenance chemicals can quickly turn into a hazard if mismanaged.

Hidden liabilities for businesses

Public pools, gyms, warehouses and other facilities often store cleaning agents and disinfectants like chlorine, which can pose significant risks when they react with incompatible materials. Even a small release can lead to:

• Respiratory injuries – Chlorine vapors irritate eyes and lungs and can cause coughing, wheezing and burns. Employees or patrons exposed to fumes may need medical treatment.
• Environmental damage – Chlorinated water or vapors released outdoors can corrode metals, harm vegetation and contaminate soil or waterways. Cleanup may involve neutralizing and disposing of waste material.
• Regulatory fines and legal costs – Authorities such as local fire departments, environmental agencies or health departments can issue citations for improper storage or handling of hazardous chemicals.
• Business interruption – Evacuation orders, equipment shutdown and remediation efforts can close facilities for hours or days, resulting in lost revenue and reputational damage.
• Third‑party claims – Neighbors, customers or nearby institutions could sue for injuries, property damage or nuisance caused by chemical releases.

How pollution liability insurance helps

Standard general liability policies typically exclude coverage for pollution events. A pollution liability insurance policy fills that gap by covering the costs associated with accidental releases of hazardous substances, including common pool chemicals. Key benefits include:

• Emergency response and cleanup – Coverage for hiring hazmat teams, ventilating buildings, neutralizing chemicals and disposing of contaminated materials.
• Bodily injury and property damage – Protection against claims by employees, students, patrons or neighbors for respiratory injuries or property damage due to chemical exposure.
• Legal defense and settlements – Payment of attorney fees, court costs and settlements or judgments.
• Business interruption – Reimbursement for lost income if operations must pause during cleanup and repairs.
• Coverage tailored to operations – Policies can be structured to address specific risks such as pools, laboratories, chemical storage and maintenance activities.

Lessons for facility managers and business owners

• Inventory hazardous substances – Identify all chemicals stored on site, including pool sanitizers, cleaners and maintenance supplies. Maintain safety data sheets and train staff on proper handling.
• Segregate and secure chemicals – Store incompatible substances separately to prevent accidental reactions. Use secondary containment and monitor storage vats and pump systems.
• Plan for emergencies – Develop and practice evacuation and spill‑response procedures. Ensure local fire departments and hazmat teams are familiar with facility layouts.
• Assess insurance coverage – Review existing policies to determine whether pollution events are covered. For facilities with swimming pools, janitorial operations or chemical storage, consider purchasing a pollution liability policy or adding an endorsement.
• Maintain equipment – Regularly inspect pumps, piping and chemical feeders to prevent leaks and reactions. Work with qualified contractors to service and repair specialized systems.

The UPJ chlorine incident was resolved quickly and without injuries, but it serves as a reminder that even routine disinfection processes can go awry. Businesses and institutions that handle chemicals—from community pools to manufacturing plants—should take proactive steps to manage their risks and secure insurance protection before an unexpected release occurs.