A risk for those involved in oil and gas extraction, waste water treatment, pulp and paper production, and food processing, hydrogen sulphide is a toxic, flammable gas.
H2S (in low concentrations) is known by most people to smell like rotten eggs. However, it is not possible to rely on the human nose to detect it’s presence as hydrogen sulphide rapidly deadens the sense of smell. By the time high concentrations have built up, those at risk will not be able to smell it - making hydrogen sulphide extremely dangerous. At this stage H2S causes major irritation of the nose, throat and lungs, as well as headaches, nausea, vomiting, and dizziness. Prolonged exposure can cause fluid build-up in the lungs (pulmonary oedema), eventually respiratory paralysis, and can be fatal.
Gas detection provides an indication of dangerous H2S gas levels and Anchor Safety Specialists can advise on Hydrogen Sulphide gas monitoring to support you in developing a strong safety strategy to protect those at risk. At the same time, when it is impossible to eliminate the risk fully, purified air respiratory protection (PAPR) using H2S filters is recommended, or at higher concentrations, fixed or supplied air systems. (SCBA) Talk to our specialists to find out more about the right solution to the risk of Hydrogen Sulphide in your business.
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