Hydrogen Sulfide: The Invisible Killer in Oilfields
Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is a highly toxic gas – both invisible and flammable – that naturally occurs at crude petroleum and natural gas fields. The dangerous effects of HS2 poisoning can be felt within as little as a single breath, according to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).
The sense of smell is not the most dependable barometer when it comes to detecting hydrogen sulfide. Although at low concentrations hydrogen sulfide is detectable by its rotten egg-like odor, the toxic gas dulls the sense of smell at higher concentrations, making it subtle yet deadly – a dangerous combination.
Symptoms of minor exposure include fatigue, eye irritation, dizziness and headaches, coughing and nasal pain. In cases of more severe exposure, the aforementioned symptoms are intensified and may lead to unconsciousness, suffocation and death, depending on the duration, intensity and frequency of exposure in addition to the victim’s susceptibility to the gas.
All oilfield personnel should be properly trained on how to deal with hydrogen sulfide exposure, and employers should maintain safe working conditions at all times. The following means of prevention and protection should be provided at all at-risk sites:
- Respiratory equipment, such as self-contained breathing apparatuses (SCBA)
- Personal monitors that give visual and/or audible warning when hydrogen sulfide is present
- Wind direction indicators
- Pre-planned escape routes
- Warning signs
- Rescue protocol
If you have suffered an illness or lost a loved one due to an oilfield hydrogen sulfide poisoning incident, please get in touch with the experienced Oklahoma personal injury attorneys at the Maples Law Firm today. You may be entitled to damages, including medical and funeral expenses, lost wages during recovery, pain and suffering and more. Using our extensive legal knowledge and resources, we will fight to get you full and fair compensation. For a free consultation, call (405) 705-5050.