Acute hydrogen sulfide toxicity due to sewer gas exposure

Abstract

Hydrogen sulfide toxicity is a known risk for individuals working in the petroleum, sewer, maritime, and mining industries. Concern regarding exposure has led to the development of safety precautions and treatment guidelines. The US government imposes safety measures including self-contained breathing masks and exposure time limits to hydrogen sulfide gas. Current treatment methods, however, are not strongly supported by research. Acute exposure to hydrogen sulfide gas still poses a significant life threat. In this report, we discuss a case of a sewer worker exposed to deadly concentrations of hydrogen sulfide. Safety precautions and treatment options available to those exposed to high doses of hydrogen sulfide gas are explored.