HYDROGEN SULFIDE

Overview

CAS No. 7783-06-4

Hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) is a colorless gas with a strong odor of rotten eggs. Exposure to hydrogen sulfide may cause irritation to the eyes and respiratory system. It can also cause apnea, coma, convulsions; dizziness, headache, weakness, irritability, insomnia; stomach upset, and if liquid: frostbite. Workers may be harmed from exposure to hydrogen sulfide. The level of exposure depends upon the dose, duration, and work being done.

Hydrogen sulfide is used in many industries. For example, it’s used to produce textiles. Some examples of workers at risk of being exposed to hydrogen sulfide include the following:

• Factory workers in plants where rayon textiles are manufactured
• Petroleum and natural gas workers involved in drilling and refining
• Workers in wastewater treatment industries
• Agricultural workers on farms with manure storage pits or landfills

https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/hydrogensulfide/default.html

Risks of Methane Gas Poisoning Exposure

Methane exposure, particularly when experienced in high concentrations, can lead to methane poisoning. While it is considered relatively non-toxic, its primary threat is that it functions as an asphyxiant, similar to the threat posed by carbon monoxide exposure. When inhaled, it displaces ambient air, thus depriving the body of oxygen needed to breathe. While low concentrations are generally not harmful, higher concentrations lead to less oxygen availability and a range of symptoms may be experienced, including:

• Rapid breathing
• Increased heart rate
• Clumsiness and dizziness
• Decreased vision, especially in low lights
• Euphoria
• Decreased alertness
• Loss of memory
• Weakness
• Fatigue
• Emotional responses
• Nausea and vomiting
• Fainting and collapse
• Convulsions
• Coma
• Death

The Dangers of Methane Gas Poisoning and Exposure