Question

What is the safest type of respiratory protection to use when you work in the atmospheres that contain Hydrogen sulfide?

Answer 1

Hydrogen sulfide (${\mathbf{H}}_{\mathbf{2}}\mathbf{S}$):

1. It is a colorless gas that is known for its pungent rotten egg-like smell at a low concentration.
2. It is highly flammable and toxic and also known as sewer gas, swamp gas, and sour damp.
3. It is also available naturally in oil and gas wells, and volcanoes.
4. It is used in many manufacturing processes like pulp, paper and rayon.

Safety precautions:

1. Wear a gas mask that is equipped with acid gas filters.
2. Wear chemical safety goggles, a face shield, and an apron with self-contained breathing apparatus.
3. An efficient fume hood should be properly installed at the workplace.
4. Essential items should be placed in this atmosphere such as steel wool, Sulfur, and Hydrochloric acid.