Which statement is true regarding bromamines compared to chloramines?

Bromamines are indeed considered active sanitizers and are generally less irritating to swimmers compared to chloramines. When bromine is used as a pool sanitizer, it can form bromamines upon reacting with organic matter, such as swimmer waste. These bromamines retain a significant level of disinfection efficacy, allowing them to effectively sanitize the water while also causing less irritation than their chloramine counterparts. This can result in a more comfortable swimming experience for bathers.

In contrast, chloramines—formed when chlorine reacts with organic matter—are known for their strong odor and irritating effects on skin and eyes, making them a common source of discomfort in chlorine-treated pools. Bromamines, on the other hand, tend to dissipate more quickly and are less volatile, thus reducing irritation levels.

Understanding this difference in irritation levels and effectiveness helps pool operators make informed decisions regarding chemical usage, ultimately ensuring a more pleasant swimming environment.