Chlorine is a very safe and efficient way of killing bacteria in water supplies. It has been used in the UK since 1897. It is safe because in controlled doses it is deadly to bacteria but harmless to us. It is efficient because once it has done its job, it gradually disappears from the water. We have taste panels at our laboratories.
Some people can taste chlorine in drinking water more readily than others.
We make sure that the taste panels reflect this difference in sensitivity. Some people feel that chlorine is associated with an earthy or metallic taste, while others feel it gives water a distinctive smell. Many others don't notice chlorine at all. If you feel there is a strong chlorine taste or smell in your drinking water, keep a jug of water in the fridge and the chlorine taste and smell will quickly reduce. How we make your water safe leaflet.