Hydrogen sulfide in the oil and gas industry
Hydrogen sulfide in the oil and gas industry
Between 2011 and 2017, hydrogen sulfide was the second leading cause of inhalation deaths in the United States. It is highly toxic if inhaled, and it can have a severe effect on your health. Hydrogen sulfide is 19% heavier than air and collects in low-lying areas and confined spaces. It is highly flammable and may spontaneously ignite at hot temperatures, causing an explosion.
The toxicity and explosive nature of hydrogen sulfide accumulation means that you need to actively protect against it. Hydrogen sulfide in the oil and gas industry can cause widespread illnesses, death, and property damage if not dealt with promptly.
Hydrogen sulfide formation
Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is an extremely hazardous gas that smells like rotten eggs and is colorless, flammable, and soluble in water. It occurs naturally as crude petroleum and natural gas. H2S is also a byproduct of the breakdown of organic matter and human waste (e.g., sewage).
It is heavier than air and can collect in low-lying and enclosed, poorly ventilated areas such as basements, manholes, sewer lines, and underground telephone/electrical vaults. At low levels you can detect H2S by its scent alone. With continuous low-level exposure, however, you lose your ability to smell the gas even though it is still present.
At high concentrations, you can lose your ability to smell the gas instantly. That’s why H2S is known as “The Silent Killer.” You need to proactive about controlling hydrogen sulfide in oil and gas operations.