Is it safe to swim in a galvanized tub?

In their finished form, no, galvanized steel buckets, tubs and other galvanized household products present no toxic risk to adults, children, plants or animals.

When it comes to the toxicity of zinc to humans, however, there's a little more to the story. Zinc is ubiquitous in the environment. Significant amounts of zinc can be released from both natural and human origins. Zinc has been detected in air, surface water, groundwater, and soil. Zinc was detected more often and in larger concentrations near source areas like hazardous waste sites and industrial areas such as lead smelters (12 p.183).

Humans are exposed to zinc through ingestion (eating/drinking), inhaling (breathing air), and dermal contact (skin) (12 p.11).

Background: The zinc coating of galvanized metal protects the underlying steel against rust. Zinc is of critical importance for all biological life on on the planet and controls many functions in our bodies.

The National Academy of Sciences (NAS) estimates Recommended Daily Allowances (RDAs) for zinc of 11 mg/day for men, 8 mg/day for women, 2-3 mg/day for infants, and 5-9 mg/day for children. Extra dietary levels of zinc are recommended for women during pregnancy (11-12 mg/day) and lactation (12-13 mg/day) (12 p.8).

Zinc is found widely in commonly consumed foods. It is higher in foods of animal origin, and particularly in seafood. Meat products are comprised with comparably high concentrations of zinc, than fruits and vegetables which consist of relatively low zinc concentrations (12 p.11).

For centuries, people in rural areas have collected rainwater for drinking from galvanized roofing. Corrosion-resistant galvanized troughs and tubs have watered livestock and pets since they were invented. Water in urban areas was supplied in galvanized pipes for many years. There is evidence to suggest these practices contributed to healthy zinc levels in humans and animals. The problem with galvanized steel for drinking water occurs when the galvanized steel gets old. After 50 years of water and environmental exposure the zinc coating deteriorates exposing and rusting the underlying seel which is toxic to drink. Galvanized steel for drinking water should be replaced every 50 years or so. Read how long does galvanized steel last.

Small amounts of zinc are considered an essential micronutrient for both plants and humans. Yes zinc is key to life on earth, but too much zinc can lead to zinc toxicity. Individuals involved in galvanizing, smelting, welding, or brass foundry operations are exposed to unfinished metallic zinc and zinc compounds. These compounds are dangerous and present only during the manufacturing process (12 p.11). Zinc toxicity can occur when an individual is exposed to and breathes the heated yellowish fumes produced from welding or heating galvanized steel. For hot-dipped galvanized steel the recommended maximum temperature is 392 F (200 C), before the metal presents a toxicity risk.

EPA has states drinking water should contain no more than 5 mg of zinc per liter of water (5 mg/L or 5 ppm) because of taste. Furthermore, any release of more than 1,000 pounds (or in some cases 5,000 pounds) of zinc or its compounds into the environment (i.e., water, soil, or air) must be reported to EPA.

Although industry and environmental factors determine body exposure to zinc, the zinc found in home products such as paint, ointments, galvanized metals, coins, and dietary supplements, are low and do not disproportionately affect children or other vulnerable populations, according to a 2003 report by the Agency for Toxic Substances (12).

An unverified risk for preventing zinc toxicity from galvanized steel exposure is keeping galvanized metal surfaces away from direct contact with acidic foods. Galvanized metal containers are not safe to serve food and drinks in, According to the USDA. The acidity of the food or drink could dissolve the zinc coating allowing it to leach into the food or drink. Solutions that have a PH of higher than 12 (lye, bleach) and lower than 6 (vinegar, soda, lemon juice) should always be avoided in a galvanized container.

Jump to: Is Galvanized Metal Safe for Food? Is it safe to cook with galvanized steel?

What about using galvanized steel for planters? It is considered safe to use galvanized metal containers for planting. If plants in your galvanized container absorb the zinc, it is will be in small amounts. The plants themselves will show toxicity if the amounts are too large.

If you think your plants are receiving too much zinc, try using a plastic liner inside the galvanized container to minimize soil contact; especially in older galvanized containers. Old galvanized containers already rusting present a greater metal toxicity risk than newer galvanized containers. More on the safety of growing food in galvanized containers.

Keeping stock tank pools safe should be one of the top priorities for owners to protect their families. Considering the size of a stock tank, however, one might assume that stock tank pools are an automatic fool-proof and safe alternative to in-ground pools.

The fact that swimming pools can be difficult to maintain and, when untreated, can lead to recreational water illnesses, such as e: Coli, hepatitis A, and salmonella. As a result, pool maintenance plays a significant role in ensuring everyone’s safety.

Keeping in-ground pools clean can be very expensive, with a monthly cleaning routine costing an average of $229. It is at this point that stock tank pools prove to be beneficial.

To answer the question, “are stock tank pools safe?” we have compiled a list of the most commonly asked questions, as well as tips to keep them clean.

Source: Sheilah Dixon Huckabee (Georgia)

Are Stock Tank Pools Safe?

There are many factors to consider when considering whether or not to invest in a stock tank pool if safety is your main concern. It can be anything from having a dirty stock tank pool to mosquito breeding problems, as well as the safety of young kids.

We will be covering all the things to keep in mind when deciding if stock tank pools are the best option for you.

Is it Hard to Keep Stock Tank Pools Clean?

In general, pools require regular cleaning and maintenance. Nonetheless, stock tanks offer the advantage of being simpler and less expensive to maintain than other pool alternatives. Maintenance is easy because it’s portable and durable.

Keeping stock tank pools safe also means keeping them clean, so ensure you have the necessary pool cleaning supplies. This includes a floating chlorine dispenser, chlorine tablets, a reliable pool skimmer, and a filter pump.

Annoyed by the slippery “slime” build-up on the sides or bottom of your stock tank pool? This can happen to any pool.

In this case, the slime is algae, which can grow and, unfortunately, contribute to the growth of bacteria. Having said that, you do not need to worry too much about this as it can be handled with regular pool maintenance and basic pool cleaning.

For a more in-depth look, check out this comprehensive stock tank pool maintenance guide.

Source: Sheilah Dixon Huckabee (Georgia)

How About the Dangers of Mosquitos?

Because stock tanks are smaller in size, they may be more prone to standing water if not used on a regular basis. In many parts of the country, standing water attracts mosquitoes to lay eggs and contributes to the spread of mosquito-borne diseases.

Although this may be a concern, it can be easily resolved with a simple yet effective solution: mosquito netting! During the night, place mosquito netting over your stock tank pool, and when ready, remove the netting and jump right in.

For added safety, it’s a good idea to keep the pool water clean and safe by cleaning it routinely and refilling it from time to time as well.

Can Stock Tank Pools Get Too Hot?

Considering that stock tanks are giant metal buckets, you may think that using one as an above-ground pool on a hot day could overheat the water.

This could pose a danger to swimmers, especially children who may jump in and soak without much thought.

Fortunately, although stock water tank pools may become mildly uncomfortably hot, particularly in an open area without shade or a cover, keeping the stock tanks filled with water allows them to remain reasonably usable even on hot days.

Plus, the pool water gets cool again overnight.

An instant solution to this is placing an umbrella over your stock tank pool or, if you are considering getting one, placing it under a tree shade.

Additionally, you may want to keep the water pump running to maintain a steady temperature and keep the water moving.

Source: Carilyn Jacqueline (Southern Ontario, Canada)

Do Stock Tank Pools Rust?

Although stock tank pools may also be constructed from plastic, most owners get a galvanized stock tank that is more durable and will last for many years if properly maintained. That being said, metal stock tanks do rust.

When left untreated or unpainted, galvanized metal won’t last for a long time since pool chemicals or salt will eventually rust the metal or eat away at the paint.

To prevent rusting, we suggest applying spray-on truck bed coatings or rubber coatings to the inside of the stock tank.

Because pool chemicals, such as chlorine, contribute greatly to rusting, be sure to place chlorine tablets in chlorine floaters so they do not come into direct contact with the metal tank.

Is There a Risk of Drowning?

Often overlooked, stock tank pools are usually only two feet in depth. Despite that, drowning is a risk in any pool, whether big or deep.

Your stock tank pool should be kept out of reach of children and toddlers who, when left alone, may suddenly decide to jump into it.

Alarmingly, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that drowning is the leading cause of unintentional death among children ages one to four.

So, just a word of caution, children should never be left unattended in a stock tank pool or any other pool.

Source: Lisa Chaykowski (Ottawa, Ontario)

Final Thoughts

Keeping stock tank pools safe is the same as keeping other pools safe. Make sure that it is properly maintained and kept clean and that children are supervised at all times when they are swimming.

With the entire family fitting into a stunning two-story barndominium, keeping stock tank pools safe can help everyone enjoy a great swim day without worrying.

Noah Edis is a passionate staff writer at Barndominium Life, a leading online resource for all things barndominium. With years of experience in the writing industry, Noah has made a name for himself as a skilled storyteller and a knowledgeable authority on the topic of barndominiums.

Noah’s interest in barndominiums began when he stumbled upon the concept while researching alternative housing options. Intrigued by the rustic charm and functionality of these converted barns, he soon became obsessed with the idea of living in one himself. He spent countless hours researching the construction, design, and decorating aspects of barndominiums, and soon became an expert on the topic.

As a staff writer at Barndominium Life, Noah enjoys sharing his knowledge and passion for these unique homes with others. He has written numerous articles covering a wide range of topics, from the history of barndominiums to the best ways to decorate them. Noah’s writing is informative, engaging, and always on-trend, making him a valuable asset to the Barndominium Life team.

Noah is a graduate of the University of British Columbia, where he earned a degree in English Language and Literature. When he’s not writing about barndominiums, he can be found exploring the great outdoors, trying new restaurants, or spending time with his family and friends. Noah is dedicated to his craft and is always striving to improve his writing skills and knowledge of the barndominium lifestyle.

Connect with Noah on LinkedIn