2 Any industrial process that uses seawater for cooling and fire protection can develop unwanted biofouling, requiring extra maintenance and labor to maintain optimal conditions. Sodium Hypochlorite (hypo) is an effective biocide and disinfectant for various applications, including marine, offshore and industrial markets. SWEC is a safe, efficient and cost-effective solution for onsite hypochlorite generation that removes the need for bulk-hypochlorite from expensive commercial sources. Environmental impacts Although SWEC technology provides many benefits to the offshore oil and gas industries, the potentially harmful environmental impacts should not be overlooked. SWEC produces sodium hypochlorite as equivalent chlorine, a highly electronegative and reactive halogen. Chlorine forms acids when combined with hydrogen and readily combines with metals to create salts. Even at low concentrations, chlorine can be toxic to aquatic life, decreasing reproduction rates, increasing mortality and altering habitats. In addition, low levels can induce stress in marine species, making them vulnerable to disease and changing behavior patterns.