Injury Illness Prevention Plan - Flipbook - Page 221
Health and Safety Program Manual
Teamwrkx
Construction, Inc.
Issue Date: 10/16/23
Revision Date: 10/16/23
Hydrogen Sulfide Awareness
Reference: B-3
When ignition occurs, the combustion produces irritants and toxic gases, including sulfur dioxide (SO2). SO2 has
an irritating effect on the eyes and lungs and can be fatal at concentrations of about 100PPM.
H2S is heavier than air, has a tendency to settle in low-laying areas, and is readily dispersed by wind movements
or currents.
H2S attacks most metals, especially in the presence of water, forming sulfides that are usually insoluble
precipitates. It is also very corrosive to plastics and tissue.
H2S dissolves in water forming a weak acid (hydro sulfurous acid).
H2S will be released when in water when agitated making it a dangerous hidden hazard.
Health Effects
The following information outlines the symptoms of hydrogen sulfide at specific concentrations.
10 PPM (0.001% H2S)
x Obvious and unpleasant odor.
x Burning eye irritation.
x Permissible exposure limit is eight hours.
200 PPM (0.02% H2S)
x Kills smell quickly.
x Stings eyes and throat.
x Respiratory irritation.
x Death after one to two hours of exposure.
500 PPM (0.05% H2S)
x Dizziness. Breathing ceases within a few minutes.
x Requires prompt artificial respiration.
x Loss of muscle control, making self-rescue impossible.
1000 PPM (0.10% H2S)
x Unconsciousness at once, followed by death within minutes.
Exposure Warning
H2S CAN PARALYZE THE SENSE OF SMELL. DO NOT USE THE SENSE OF SMELL TO DETECT H2S.
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