Toxic Gas Buildup

27 Toxic Gas Buildup

Hydrogen Sulfide (H₂S) Exposure – Found in manure pits and decomposing organic matter, this gas can cause dizziness, unconsciousness, and respiratory failure at high concentrations.
Carbon Monoxide (CO) Poisoning – Running engines in enclosed barns or sheds can lead to CO buildup, which is odorless and deadly.
Methane (CH₄) & Ammonia (NH₃) Exposure – These gases, commonly found in manure storage and grain silos, can lead to breathing issues, eye irritation, and long-term lung damage.
Oxygen Deficiency – Poorly ventilated silos and grain bins can have low oxygen levels, making breathing difficult and leading to suffocation.
Delayed Recognition of Symptoms – Many toxic gases have no smell or color, making them hard to detect until it’s too late.

Ventilate Confined Spaces – Always run fans, exhaust systems, or open doors when working in enclosed areas.
Test Air Quality Before Entry – Use gas detectors to check for safe oxygen levels and dangerous gases.
Never Work Alone in High-Risk Areas – Have someone standing by when entering manure pits, silos, or enclosed barns.
Use Proper Respiratory Protection – N95 masks are NOT sufficient for toxic gases—use supplied air respirators (SARs) or SCBA systems when necessary.
Avoid Running Engines Indoors – Never operate tractors, generators, or other fuel-powered equipment in confined spaces without proper ventilation.

Fear of Unseen Dangers – The presence of odorless, deadly gases can cause anxiety about safety.
Stress from Close Calls or Accidents – Experiencing or witnessing a gas-related emergency can lead to lasting trauma.
Frustration Over Safety Measures – Ventilation, monitoring, and protective equipment can feel like extra work but are essential.

Normalize Gas Safety Training – Treat gas detection as a standard safety routine rather than an afterthought.
Talk About Near-Misses – Sharing experiences helps reinforce why precautions matter.
Recognize Anxiety After Exposure – If stress lingers after a gas-related incident, seek peer support or professional guidance.
Invest in Prevention – While monitoring equipment and PPE can be costly, the alternative risks are far worse.

Nebraska AgrAbility. (2024). Rehabilitating Nebraska farmers and ranchers with disabilities workshop

Occupational Safety and Health Administration. (n.d.). Respirator selection: Air-purifying and atmosphere-supplying respirators. U.S. Department of Labor. Retrieved March 26, 2025, from https://www.osha.gov/etools/respiratory-protection/respirator-selection/air-purifying-atmos-supply