Hydrogen Sulfide in Manure Handling Systems: Health and Safety Issues

Abstract

Hydrogen sulfide is a poisonous, acidic gas that can kill in a matter of seconds. It is especially dangerous in confined spaces with little or no ventilation, where it can render victims unconscious in an instant. Life-threatening conditions are unpredictable and may occur in areas that were entered many times previously without incident. Consider the tragedy below that happened on a New York dairy farm.