Hydrogen Sulfide Exposure

Like silica exposure, hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) exposure poses serious health risks to workers in the oil and gas extraction industry. Hydrogen sulfide is a naturally occurring gas and at low temperatures and high pressures may exist as a liquid. Hydrogen sulfide is found in crude petroleum and natural gas. For example, during well completion, a crew that is performing a drill stem test may be exposed to an unexpected release of hydrogen sulfide from the drilling process.

Hydrogen sulfide gas weighs more than air, so it tends to collect in low-lying, poorly ventilated places such as underground tunnels and excavated confined spaces. It is flammable and extremely hazardous to human health. Hydrogen sulfide gas is colorless. Although it emits an odor that resembles rotten eggs, workers become acclimated to the smell and stop noticing its presence. Furthermore, high concentrations of the gas cause an instant loss of the sense of smell. As you may have concluded, you must not depend upon your sense of smell to alert you to the presence of hydrogen sulfide!

To learn more about Oil & Gas Extraction visit our Oil & Gas Extraction Safety Online Training web page.