By Bruce Cochrane.
SAFE Work Manitoba is reminding those who work with livestock manure to always be aware of the potentially fatal risks associated with manure gasses.
The three main gasses associated with swine manure are hydrogen sulfide, methane and ammonia and each of those gases pose health threats to humans and livestock, especially at high concentrations.
Jeff Shaw, a prevention consultant with SAFE Work Manitoba, says hydrogen sulfide is the most dangerous and usually the least forgiving of the manure gases.
Jeff Shaw-Work Manitoba:
Always assume that these gasses are present when entering any tank or pit where manure is located and always maintain adequate ventilation in spaces where livestock are housed or livestock waste is stored, especially during the agitation process.
While working in livestock buildings monitor gas levels at all times and do not allow people to enter livestock buildings when agitation is occurring.
For those performing the work in those areas, ensure they are trained and equipped with the appropriate resources to do the job safely.
When entry into a confined space such as a storage tank or pit is necessary you want to make sure that air assessments have been taken, the worker is equipped with a self contained breathing apparatus and rescue plans and confined space procedures are in place.
It's important to never try to rescue someone who is unconscious in a manure confined space structure unless you have the proper personal protective equipment and training and overall ensure everyone on the farm is aware of manure gas hazards and know the areas on the farm where these gasses may linger.
Placing appropriate warning signage in these locations will help remind people these dangers do exist.
Shaw says hydrogen sulfide related fatalities typically occur when a person enters a confined space such as a manure pit or holding tank and when the victim doesn't return, another person will attempt rescue and also succumb to the toxic gas if they are not equipped with the proper equipment or procedures.
For more on the risks posed by manure gases visit safemanitoba.com/farms.
Source: Farmscape