‘ TIPP ’ T raining & I nformation P owerpoint P resentation H 2 S : The Basics

‘ TIPP ’ Characteristics of H 2 S (Hydrogen Sulphide)  H 2 S is a highly toxic colourless gas, with an odour similar to rotten eggs.  It is heavier than air and will therefore, settle in low-lying areas.  And it has a lower explosive limit (4.3%) with an upper explosive limit (45%), this is 5 times greater than the explosive range of petrol.

‘ TIPP ’  When ignited, burns with a blue flame and produces sulphur dioxide (SO 2 )… that is also a toxic gas. Characteristics of H 2 S

‘ TIPP ’  Potential exposure to H 2 S exists during drilling operations at sour crude/sour gas locations, through, recycled mud, water, injection of steam/water to stimulate oil production and during blow-out conditions.  Potential exposure to H 2 S exists during field maintenance on tanks, voids, wells, seals etc. Potential Exposures to H 2 S

‘ TIPP ’  Potential exposure to H 2 S also exists when tank gauging, breaking flanges and opening up lines at production, pipeline and refinery facilities.  Entry into confined spaces such as vessels, separators, valve pits, trenches etc, can also be sources of H 2 S hazards Potential Exposures to H 2 S

‘ TIPP ’  Personal exposure to H2S must not exceed 10 parts per million (ppm) in any 8 hours. H 2 S Exposure

‘ TIPP ’  10 – 22 ppm Eye Irritation  20 –100 ppm Corneal blistering (cornea of eye), Opacity of the eye Loss of sense of smell Headache Coughing and Nausea. Personal Effect to H 2 S Exposure

‘ TIPP ’  100 – 300 ppm Respiratory difficulty and Irritation, Pulmonary Edema.  300 – 600 ppm Central and Peripheral Nervous System Effect, e.g. Tremors, Weakness, Numbness of Extremities, Unconsciousness and Convulsions. Personal Effect to H2S Exposure

‘ TIPP ’  600 – 1,000 ppm Rapid Unconsciousness resulting in Death if Emergency Aid is not promptly administered.  1,000 ppm plus Cessation of Breathing (Instantaneous) and Death Personal Effect to H 2 S Exposure

‘ TIPP ’ Essential Awareness and Precautions Recognise and respect the potential hazard Always follow the established work procedures Always monitor concentrations Always use respiratory protection as set down in the work procedures

‘ TIPP ’  If competent in its use, always wear an air-fed breathing apparatus set before attempting a rescue. Rescue in H 2 S Service Failure to do so could result in you becoming a victim.

‘ TIPP ’  Remove casualty immediately to fresh air.  If casualty is not breathing, start artificial respiration immediately.  If casualty ’ s heart has stopped, commence cardio- pulmonary resuscitation (CPR).  Keep casualty warm.  Once casualty has been removed to fresh air and normal breathing has been restored, keep under observation until relieved by qualified medical person. First Aid in H 2 S Service

‘ TIPP ’ T raining & I nformation P owerpoint P resentation Thank you for your attention