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In addition to the problems controlling dosage as listed in the previous posting, many chlorine compounds degrade over time and so it is impossible to estimate the chlorine dose without testing. One approach that is widely practiced in emergency situations, such as epidemics and accommodating large displaced populations, is the use of chlorine tablets. Ones based on NaDCC (sodium dichloroisocyanurate) are approved for use in such situations by a number of organisations and they are available in a variety of doses to suit different quantities and qualities of water. They are also far more stable than hypochlorite compounds.

With close supervision and education this type of intervention is credited with having significant impact on disease transmission. However, for routine household use, it is dificult to see how this approach can be made sustainable.