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Hydrogen sulfide is a gas heavier than air and smells like rotten eggs. Outside the industry (refining, metallurgy, plastics), poisoning can take place in sewers, sewage pits, old, unused and polluted wells, where hydrogen sulphide is produced during the rotting of organic bodies.
Symptoms of poisoning
The general action consists in blocking tissue respiratory enzymes and in low concentrations – stimulating and then paralysis of the respiratory system (in high concentrations immediate paralysis occurs). In high concentrations, as a result of paralysis of the smell, there is no warning signal, which is the unpleasant odor of hydrogen sulphide. At low concentrations, firstly, irritation of the conjunctiva and cornea of the eyes, catarrhal symptoms of the nose, coughing, nausea, salivation, headache, drop in blood pressure, increased heart rate; pulmonary edema may occur after prolonged exposure.
First aid
Lifting man out of a contaminated atmosphere; securing basic life activities; place the unconscious and vomiting patients in the recovery position; oxygen; removal of contaminated clothing; washing contaminated skin with plenty of soap and water; rinsing the conjunctiva with water; providing warmth and peace.
Note: Rescuers should not enter the hydrogen sulphide containing room without protection (at least a safety rope for pulling out in case of unconsciousness).