Where is h2s commonly found

If not, allow liquid to vapourize. Ventilate the area to prevent the gas from accumulating, especially in confined spaces. Gas: stop or reduce leak if safe to do so. Handling: Before handling, it is important that all engineering controls are operating and that protective equipment requirements and personal hygiene measures are being followed. Only trained personnel should work with this product. Do NOT work alone with this product.

In event of a spill or leak, immediately put on escape-type respirator and exit the area. Use non-sparking ventilation systems, approved explosion-proof equipment and intrinsically safe electrical systems. Electrically bond and ground equipment. Ground clips must contact bare metal. Eliminate heat and ignition sources such as sparks, open flames, hot surfaces and static discharge. Post "No Smoking" signs. Prevent accidental contact with incompatible chemicals. Use the pressure regulator appropriate for cylinder pressure and contents.

Secure cylinder in an up-right position. Protect cylinders from damage. Use a suitable hand truck to move cylinders; do not drag, roll, slide, or drop. Storage: Store in an area that is: cool, dry, temperature-controlled, well-ventilated, out of direct sunlight and away from heat and ignition sources, separate from incompatible materials, an approved, fire-resistant area, clear of combustible and flammable materials e.

Electrically bond and ground containers. Avoid bulk storage indoors. Empty containers may contain hazardous residue. Store separately. Keep closed. Since legislation varies by jurisdiction, contact your local jurisdiction for exact details.

A list of which acts and regulations that cover exposure limits to chemical and biological agents is available on our website.

Please note that while you can see the list of legislation for free, you will need a subscription to view the actual documentation. Engineering Controls: Use a local exhaust ventilation and enclosure, if necessary, to control amount in the air. It may be necessary to use stringent control measures such as process enclosure to prevent product release into the workplace. Use non-sparking ventilation systems, approved explosion-proof equipment and intrinsically safe electrical systems in areas where this product is used and stored.

Use a ventilation system separate from other exhaust ventilation systems. Filter the contaminated air before it is directly exhausted to the outside. Use leak and fire detection equipment and an automatic fire suppression system. A face shield with safety goggles may also be necessary. Skin Protection: Wear chemical protective clothing e.

In some operations: wear a chemical protective, full-body encapsulating suit and self-contained breathing apparatus SCBA. Add a badge to your website or intranet so your workers can quickly find answers to their health and safety questions.

Although every effort is made to ensure the accuracy, currency and completeness of the information, CCOHS does not guarantee, warrant, represent or undertake that the information provided is correct, accurate or current. CCOHS is not liable for any loss, claim, or demand arising directly or indirectly from any use or reliance upon the information.

OSH Answers Fact Sheets Easy-to-read, question-and-answer fact sheets covering a wide range of workplace health and safety topics, from hazards to diseases to ergonomics to workplace promotion. Search all fact sheets: Search. Type a word, a phrase, or ask a question. Class B1. Class D1A. Class D2B. Main Routes of Exposure: Inhalation; eye contact.

Can cause severe irritation of the nose and throat. Can cause life-threatening accumulation of fluid in the lungs pulmonary edema. Colorless, flammable, poisonous and corrosive, H2S gas is noticeable by its rotten egg smell.

With toxicity similar to carbon monoxide, which prevents cellular respiration, monitoring and early detection of H2S could mean the difference between life and death. Inhalation is the primary route of exposure to hydrogen sulfide. Though it may be easily smelled by some people at small concentrations, continuous exposure to even low levels of H2S quickly deadens the sense of smell olfactory desensitization. Exposure to high levels of the gas can deaden the sense of smell instantly.

Although the scent of H2S is a characteristic, smell is not a dependable indicator of H2S gas presence or for indicating increasing concentrations of the gas. H2S irritates the mucous membranes of the body and the respiratory tract, among other things. Following exposure, short-term, or acute, symptoms may include a headache, nausea, convulsions, and eye and skin irritation.

Injury to the central nervous system can be immediate and serious after exposure. At high concentrations, only a few breaths are needed to induce unconsciousness, coma, respiratory paralysis, seizures, even death. Those having prolonged exposure to high enough levels of H2S gas to cause unconsciousness may continue to experience headaches, reduced attention span and motor functions.

Pulmonary effects of H2S gas exposure may not be apparent for up to 72 hours following removal from the affected environment. Delayed pulmonary edema, a buildup of excess fluid in the lungs, may also occur following exposure to high concentrations. It is extremely flammable and highly toxic. Hydrogen sulfide also occurs naturally in sewers, manure pits, well water, oil and gas wells, and volcanoes. Because it is heavier than air, hydrogen sulfide can collect in low-lying and enclosed spaces, such as manholes, sewers, and underground telephone vaults.

Its presence makes work in confined spaces potentially very dangerous. The health effects of hydrogen sulfide depend on how much H2S a worker breathes and for how long. However, many effects are seen even at low concentrations. Effects range from mild, headaches or eye irritation, to very serious, unconsciousness and death.

This web page provides information on how hydrogen sulfide can affect your health , where you might find it , and how to prevent harmful exposures.