What is h2s

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.

Depending on the concentration of exposure, the health effects of exposure to hydrogen sulfide can range from headaches and eye irritation to unconsciousness and death.

Testing and monitoring air quality is a key component in hydrogen sulfide safety. The gas has a smell, but it isn't always detectable when the gas is found at higher concentrations.

Subscribe to the Safeopedia newsletter to stay on top of current industry trends and up-to-date know-how from subject matter authorities. Our comprehensive online resources are dedicated to safety professionals and decision makers like you. By: Daniel Clark. By: Tamara Parris CD. Dictionary Dictionary Term of the Day. Drunk Driving. It may also cause difficulty in breathing for some people with asthma. Low concentrations of hydrogen sulphide may cause headaches, poor memory, tiredness, and balance problems.

Brief exposures to high concentrations of hydrogen sulphide greater than ppm can cause a loss of consciousness. In most cases, the person appears to regain consciousness without any other effects. However, in some individuals, there may be permanent or long-term effects such as headaches, poor attention span, poor memory, and poor motor function. Even at these low levels, water will become aesthetically unpleasant and most users will avoid drinking the water at that time. The odor may be more noticeable when hot water is run as heat forces the gas into the air which may cause the odor to be especially offensive when showering.

If there is an ongoing issue with hydrogen sulphide in your water supply, there are a variety of water treatment devices capable of removing it. Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Syndicate. Hydrogen Sulfide. Minus Related Pages. On This Page. Overview CAS No.

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 NIOSH recommends that employers use Hierarchy of Controls to prevent injuries.