NaDCC tablets are a widely used form of chlorine for disinfecting drinking water at the household level. When dissolved in water, they form hypochlorous acid, which effectively inactivates bacteria and viruses (>99%) but is less effective against protozoa and helminths (<80%). The tablets are most effective in clear water with pH between 5.5–7.5 and require a minimum of 30 minutes for disinfection. Though easy to use and lightweight, NaDCC tablets require proper storage and adherence to dosage instructions. They are globally available, with brands like Aquatabs being common, and offer a viable solution for improving water safety in areas with limited water treatment infrastructure.
Additional Information
This fact sheet provides a concise overview of chlorine disinfection using sodium dichloroisocyanurate (NaDCC) tablets for household water treatment. It highlights the chemical’s effectiveness against bacteria and viruses, operational guidelines, user acceptability, and logistical considerations such as availability, shelf life, and cost. While NaDCC tablets are widely available and easy to transport, their effectiveness is reduced for protozoa and helminths and is influenced by water turbidity and pH.