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Toxicological Assessment of Chlorine Dioxide as a Means of Purification and Disinfection of Drinking Water

Toxicological Assessment of Chlorine Dioxide as a Means of Purification and Disinfection of Drinking Water

ISSN 2223-6775 Ukrainian journal of occupational health Vol.21, No 2, 2026

https://doi.org/10.33573/ujoh2026.01.014

TOXICOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT OF CHLORINE DIOXIDE AS A MEANS OF PURIFICATION AND DISINFECTION OF DRINKING WATER

Mokiienko A.V.

National University of "Ostroh Academy", Ostroh, Ukraine

Full article (PDF), UKR

Introduction. Analysis of the available literature indicates the relevance of a toxicological assessment of chlorine dioxide as an effective disinfectant for the purification and disinfection of surface water sources, particularly under conditions of contamination caused by military activities and damage to water treatment infrastructure.

The aim of the research – to provide a comprehensive review of current research on chlorine dioxide and its by-products (chlorites and chlorates) in drinking water disinfection, with a focus on potential health risks and their safety assessment.

Materials and methods of the research. The study is based on a critical analysis of national and international scientific literature addressing the toxic effects of chlorine dioxide, chlorites, and chlorates, including experimental, clinical, and epidemiological data, as well as relevant international and regulatory documents.

Results. Data on the effects of chlorine dioxide and its by-products on humans and laboratory animals, results of subchronic experimental studies, and current regulatory approaches to their standardization in drinking water were summarized. It was shown that toxic effects of these compounds are generally observed at concentrations significantly exceeding those encountered in drinking water treatment practice. In a subchronic study in laboratory animals, exposure to concentrations of 1.35, 1.35, and 1.67 mg/L did not result in statistically significant changes (p > 0.05) in key hematological and biochemical parameters. At the same time, certain biological effects, including stimulation of spermatogenesis and signs of vascular tissue responses, were observed without clear pathological significance; however, these findings require further investigation. Current regulatory approaches to chlorite and chlorate levels were analyzed and may be considered conservative when real exposure conditions are taken into account.

Conclusions. The obtained results and literature analysis support the need for further studies aimed at refining safe levels of chlorine dioxide and its by-products in drinking water, taking into account modern risk assessment approaches.

Key words: drinking water, chlorine dioxide, chlorite, chlorate, toxicological assessment

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