The management of health issues at industrial facilities falls between environmental and safety management. Unlike safety problems, which can occur instantaneously, health issues generally develop slowly. But health issues are not as long term as environmental compliance and they are largely under the control of facility management.

Safety Moment #87: Hydrogen Sulfide

Hydrogen Sulfide

Hydrogen Sulfide is a highly toxic chemical compound that is found in a wide variety of oil processing operations. High concentrations of H2S may be present in crude oil, molten sulfur, tank and pit-bottom sludge and produced water, all of which may release H2S when agitated, heated, or depressurized. Typical operational activities where personnel may be exposed to H2S include drawing samples, handling and testing samples, gauging tanks, and when opening lines and equipment.