HYDROGEN SULFIDE

SAFETY

BY PAUL AYERS

A COURSE FOR INTERNATIONAL PAPER

EMPLOYEES
WELCOME TO HYDROGEN SULFIDE SAFETY TRAINING

Hydrogen Sulfide is the most treacherous gas found at our

IP facilities. It is treacherous because it cannot be seen,
cannot be smelled in high concentrations, and it can kill you.
This course is designed to help you learn to work safely where
hydrogen sulfide may be present. To that end, this course will help you
learn to…

• Identify important characteristics of H2S, including its role in the papermaking

processes at IP facilities
• Recognize how H2S poses a significant safety hazard to IP employees
• Recognize how and where H2S may be released at an IP work environment
• Identify necessary PPE protections for H2S
• Identify correct responses to a hydrogen sulfide release

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COURSE INFORMATION

Course Navigation
This course has two levels of navigation. You may move from page to page within this
course by clicking the Next and Back button. The Next button will move you forward one
page; the Back button will return you to the previous page.

The course also has internal navigation within certain pages. You may select within these
pages to see related information. These steps may be accessed in any order you prefer,
but are meant to be sequential.

System Feedback
Information about page topics is found in the header section of the page. Information
about course progression is provided at the bottom of the page.

Course Practice
This course has two self checks to alert you to the kinds of questions in the final quiz for
the course.

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HYDROGEN SULFIDE…WHAT IS IT?

Hydrogen Sulfide, or H2S, is a simple molecule that can be

formed under many different conditions. Often known as
“sour gas” or “rotten egg” smell, most humans are able to
smell hydrogen sulfide in concentrations of less than .01
parts per million.

Hydrogen Sulfide is produced when two

atoms of Hydrogen are combined with on
atom of Sulfide, the element found in sulfur.
S
H2S is produced naturally when organic
matter decomposes in the absence of H H
oxygen, such as in swamps or sewers. It is
also present in volcanic gases, natural gas, Example of a H2S molecule
and some well water.
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HYDROGEN SULFIDE AT INTERNATIONAL PAPER

Hydrogen Sulfide is also formed as part of the chemistry of

pulp and paper making activities at IP mills.

Kraft pulping – the process

used in almost all of the world’s
paper mills – is based on sulfur
compounds and caustic soda.

These chemicals, along with

pressure and steam, convert
wood chips into pulp. The
process of conversion,
produces a caustic by-product
called liquor.

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HYDROGEN SULFIDE AT INTERNATIONAL PAPER (CONT’D)

In addition to sulfur
compounds and caustic
soda, acids are also
necessary for the kraft
pulp process.

Acids are use to produce

bleaching chemicals,
demineralize boiler water, conduct
maintenance and cleaning
operations, and to convert black
liquor soap to tall oil.
Acids are also use to adjust the
pH of the paper machine furnish.

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HYDROGEN SULFIDE AT INTERNATIONAL PAPER (CONT’D)

H2S and other non-condensable gases form during the

normal chemical and recovery processes at IP facilities.
The chief danger for H2S
exposure, however, comes
from the accidental
combination of acids and
pulp liquors (black, green, or
white).

In fact, the leading cause of

H2S releases in the paper
mill environment is the
accidental mixing of acids
and pulping liquors.

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SELF CHECK – QUESTION

Read the following question and select the best answer

from those listed. You will be provided feedback on your
answers.

Hydrogen Sulfide gas is a byproduct True

of paper making processes.
False

Back Next
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SELF CHECK – RIGHT

You are Correct!

Hydrogen Sulfide gas is a byproduct of paper

making processes.

Click on the Next button to continue this tutorial.

Back Next
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SELF CHECK – WRONG

Sorry, but that is incorrect.

Hydrogen Sulfide gas is a byproduct of paper

making processes.

Click on the Next button to continue this tutorial.

Back Next
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HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND THE HUMAN BODY

When you breathe, an area of the brain known as the respiratory center
controls the movement of the diaphragm. This movement inflates and
deflates the lungs. Your breathing can be controlled or can occur
automatically through this area of the brain.

When you breathe in H2S, molecules Normally, your brain signals your lungs to
of the gas are absorbed into your breathe
bloodstream and travel to the
respiratory center of the brain.

If enough molecules are absorbed,

they may block the breathing signals H2S interrupts your brain’s signals,
this area of the brain sends to your causing respiratory collapse
diaphragm.

When these signals are blocked, your

breathing stops, and you go into H2
respiratory collapse. Respiratory
S
collapse leads to death. Back Next
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HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND THE HUMAN BODY

Here are Signs and Symptoms of Exposure to Hydrogen Sulfide

some of the
Concentration Duration Effects
symptoms (ppm)*
and hazards .02-30 ---------------- Odor of rotten eggs

associated 10 Several hours Eye, nose, throat irritation; nausea; headache;

sleep disturbance; shortness of breath
with H2S at 20 8 hours OSHA ceiling (maximum) allowable
different 30-50 Several minutes Odor disappears; loss of sense of smell
levels of 50 10 minutes, once per 8 OSHA maximum peak above the allowable
exposure. hours ceiling
70-150 ---------------- Burning in eyes; headache; dizziness; nausea
It does not 200 20 minutes Increased dizziness, may lead to
unconsciousness
take a long
300-500 Less than 20 minutes Unconsciousness, may lead to respiratory
period of paralysis and death
exposure to 1000 Less than 1 minute Unconsciousness, respiratory paralysis, death
high levels of 5000 + Instantly Unconsciousness, respiratory paralysis, death

H2S to cause
Note: At 30 ppm, the sense of smell is damaged. 20 ppm for 8 hours is
significant the OSHA limit.
harm. Back Next
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AREAS OF RISK FOR HYDROGEN SULFIDE

While exposure to hydrogen sulfide gas is possible anywhere in the mill

site, some areas are at greater risk than others.

These areas include…

• Sewers

• Evaporator
Hotwells

• Digesters

• Turpentine
Systems

• Noncondensable
gas systems

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 General H2S Monitoring Systems

In order protect yourself from exposure to H2S, you should be knowledgeable

about the different types of monitoring systems available to prevent
overexposure.

H2S monitoring systems are

put in place in area of the
mill where H2S gas may be
present due to paper making
processes.

H2S monitoring systems will alert

employees in the area that unsafe
levels of the gas are present.
When you hear the alarm, exit the
area immediately. Speak with
your supervisor for more details.

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 Personal H2S Monitoring Systems

In addition to H2S monitors in high risk areas, certain tasks and areas
also require the use of a personal H2S monitor. This PPE is used to
provide a person additional notification when H2S levels in their area
have elevated to an unsafe area.
Personal H2S Monitor
Personal H2S monitors can
be set for different H2S level H2S Gas monitors
are usually small
settings. devices that can
be worn easily
When using a personal H2S with other PPE.
monitor, it is also important
you are aware of how to Emergency Respirators
access an air-supplied
emergency respirator. These
types of respirators provide
enough forced air to allow you
Bag Type Lollipop Type
to escape the H2S hazard.
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TRAINING FOR H2S PROTECTION

It is important you become aware of the proper response should a H 2S

release occur at your worksite. While this course is not designed to provide
you in-depth training on H2S response, an overview of protection against a
release is important.

Additional hands-on training in

the use of self-contained
breathing apparatus (SCBA)
respirators, cardio-pulmonary
resuscitation (CPR) and
simulated emergencies is
essential for your full
protection.

Speak with your supervisor or safety contact about how you may
access additional hands-on training on these topics once you have
completed this course.
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TRAINING FOR H2S PROTECTION - SCBA

Gas masks are not to be used as protection from H 2S. Instead, SCBA
respirators or bottled air are the only permissible respirators that may be
used with a H2S release.

It is important to remember that beards

or facial hair may affect the fitting of the
respirator, so IP has policies in place
prohibiting facial hair that interferes with
the face piece seal for employees who
enter areas where respirators are
needed. Speak with your safety contact
about which SCBA is appropriate
for your work environment.

Employees who have facial hair that comes into contact with the face
piece seal area must not enter an H2S release area, even with an Self
Contained Breathing Apparatus.

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TRAINING FOR H2S PROTECTION – STEPS TO SCBA USE

The following are general steps to donning SCBA protection in the event
of a H2S release emergency. You must receive hands on training prior to
using SCBA at your site. Speak with your safety contact for more
information.

Step 1

Step 2

Step 3

Step 4

Step 5

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TRAINING FOR H2S PROTECTION – STEPS TO SCBA USE

The following are general steps to donning SCBA protection in the event
of a H2S release emergency. You must receive hands on training prior to
using SCBA at your site. Speak with your safety contact for more
information.

Step 1: Open the cylinder valve and

Step 1 listen for low pressure air flow.

Step 2 Kneeling at the end opposite the

cylinder valve, grasp the
backplate/cylinder with both hands.
Step 3
Lift harness assembly over your head and
Step 4 let straps hang freely; they will fall into place
over the elbows.

Step 5 Slide the harness onto your back in the

proper position according to the
manufacturer's recommended procedure. Back Next
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TRAINING FOR H2S PROTECTION – STEPS TO SCBA USE

The following are general steps to donning SCBA protection in the event
of a H2S release emergency. You must receive hands on training prior to
using SCBA at your site. Speak with your safety contact for more
information.

Step 2: Secure the clasps for

Step 1 shoulder straps from your
shoulders at your chest.
Step 2
Pull the tag end of the straps until
they fit securely and snuggly at
Step 3 your chest.

Step 4 Make certain you are able to freely

move your arms at full range of
motion. The shoulder straps
Step 5 should not be restrictive.

Back Next
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TRAINING FOR H2S PROTECTION – STEPS TO SCBA USE

The following are general steps to donning SCBA protection in the event
of a H2S release emergency. You must receive hands on training prior to
using SCBA at your site. Speak with your safety contact for more
information.

Step 3: To secure the

Step 1 face piece, thrust your
chin forward, and
Step 2 place the bottom of the
face piece at your
chin.
Step 3
Pull the webbing at the
Step 4 top of the face piece
over your head until it
sits securely.
Step 5

Back Next
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TRAINING FOR H2S PROTECTION – STEPS TO SCBA USE

The following are general steps to donning SCBA protection in the event
of a H2S release emergency. You must receive hands on training prior to
using SCBA at your site. Speak with your safety contact for more
information.

Step 4: Secure the head

Step 1 straps for the face piece in
the following order:
Step 2
1. Neck Straps (lower straps on
each side of your side)
Step 3 2. Temple Straps (upper straps on
each side of your head)

3. Top Strap (if needed).

Step 4
Feel around the face seal
Step 5 area to ensure you have no
obstruction under the mask
such as hair, collar, etc.
Back Next
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TRAINING FOR H2S PROTECTION – STEPS TO SCBA USE

The following are general steps to donning SCBA protection in the event
of a H2S release emergency. You must receive hands on training prior to
using SCBA at your site. Speak with your safety contact for more
information.

Step 5: Test the seal of the

Step 1 face piece by placing the
end of the respirator hose
Step 2 on your hand, and then
attempting to inhale.

Step 3 If any air enters the face

piece through the face
Step 4 seal, tighten the face piece
straps further.

Step 5 If you cannot get the seal

for the face piece, get a
different SCBA. Back Next
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TRAINING FOR H2S PROTECTION – IMPORTANCE OF CPR

Knowing CPR is an important part of

being prepared for any emergency,
and H2S releases in particular.

Being trained in CPR will allow to you

know how to assess someone who
has been overcome by H2S and then
apply the proper responses.

This training will provide you the

knowledge and confidence to
respond in a way that is beneficial to
the victim.

If you are interested in learning CPR,

speak with your safety contact about
where and when you may be trained.
Back Next
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TRAINING FOR H2S PROTECTION – EMERGENCY RESPONSE

Practicing rescue Click each step in sequence to see a proper H2S response.
techniques for a Step 1 Step 2 Step 3 Step 4 Step 5
simulated H2S
release can help
you be better
prepared in the
event of a real
release event.
Practice will help
you in building the
skills, speed,
confidence, and
teamwork needed
to handle respond
effectively and
safely if a real H2S
release event
should occur at
your site. Back Next
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TRAINING FOR H2S PROTECTION – EMERGENCY RESPONSE

Practicing rescue Click each step in sequence to see a proper H2S response.
techniques for a Step 1 Step 2 Step 3 Step 4 Step 5
simulated H2S
release can help
you be better Step 1: Do not rush to the person. Sound the
prepared in the
event of a real
alarm, and get help immediately. Do this FIRST.
release event. Let them know help is on the way.
Practice will help
you in building the
skills, speed,
confidence, and
teamwork needed
to handle respond
effectively and
safely if a real H2S
release event
should occur at
your site. Back Next
Page 17/20
TRAINING FOR H2S PROTECTION – EMERGENCY RESPONSE

Practicing rescue Click each step in sequence to see a proper H2S response.
techniques for a Step 1 Step 2 Step 3 Step 4 Step 5
simulated H2S
release can help
you be better Step 2: Trained response personnel must put on
prepared in the SCBA (air pack) in all cases. If the rescue is to be
event of a real in a confined space, do not enter until help
release event. arrives. Follow appropriate confined space entry
Practice will help procedures.
you in building the
skills, speed,
confidence, and
teamwork needed
to handle respond
effectively and
safely if a real H2S
release event
should occur at
your site. Back Next
Page 17/20
TRAINING FOR H2S PROTECTION – EMERGENCY RESPONSE

Practicing rescue Click each step in sequence to see a proper H2S response.
techniques for a Step 1 Step 2 Step 3 Step 4 Step 5
simulated H2S
release can help
you be better Step 3: Get the victim to fresh air
prepared in the
event of a real
as quickly as possible without
release event. endangering yourself or others.
Practice will help
you in building the
skills, speed,
confidence, and
teamwork needed
to handle respond
effectively and
safely if a real H2S
release event
should occur at
your site. Back Next
Page 17/20
TRAINING FOR H2S PROTECTION – EMERGENCY RESPONSE

Practicing rescue Click each step in sequence to see a proper H2S response.
techniques for a Step 1 Step 2 Step 3 Step 4 Step 5
simulated H2S
release can help
you be better Step 4: Check for pulse and breathing. Trained
prepared in the response personnel will apply CPR or mouth-to-
event of a real mouth resuscitation as needed until the victim
release event. is conscious and breathing normally.
Practice will help
you in building the
skills, speed,
confidence, and
teamwork needed
to handle respond
effectively and
safely if a real H2S
release event
should occur at
your site. Back Next
Page 17/20
TRAINING FOR H2S PROTECTION – EMERGENCY RESPONSE

Practicing rescue Click each step in sequence to see a proper H2S response.
techniques for a Step 1 Step 2 Step 3 Step 4 Step 5
simulated H2S
release can help
you be better Step 5: Get the person medical
prepared in the
event of a real
attention as quickly as possible.
release event.
Practice will help
you in building the
skills, speed,
confidence, and
teamwork needed
to handle respond
effectively and
safely if a real H2S
release event
should occur at
your site. Back Next
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SELF CHECK – QUESTION

Read the following question and select the best answer

from those listed. You will be provided feedback on your
answers.

When you find someone who has True

been injured by Hydrogen Sulfide
False
gas, the first thing you should do is
rush to the person.

Back Next
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SELF CHECK – RIGHT

You are Correct!

You should never rush to a person who is down from

inhaling H2S gas. You should sound the alarm
immediately so others who are prepared for rescues
with SCBA can rescue the person.

Click on the Next button to continue this tutorial.

Back Next
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SELF CHECK – WRONG

Sorry, but that is incorrect.

You should never rush to a person who is down from

inhaling H2S gas. You should sound the alarm
immediately so others who are prepared for rescues
with SCBA can rescue the person.

Click on the Next button to continue this tutorial.

Back Next
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HYDROGEN SULFIDE TRAINING SUMMARY

Congratulations! You have completed this course on

Hydrogen Sulfide Safety at International Paper.
As a result of completing this course, you should be able to…

• Identify important characteristics of H2S, including

its role in the papermaking processes at IP facilities
• Recognize how H2S poses a significant safety
hazard to IP employees
• Recognize how H2S may be released at an IP work
environment
• Recognize areas of IP facilities that have the
potential for an H2S release
• Identify necessary PPE protections for H2S
• Identify correct responses on your part should there
be a hydrogen sulfide release in your area.

Click on the Next button to go to the quiz.

Back Next
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