What is hydrogen sulfide, symptoms

DEER PARK, Texas – A hydrogen sulfide leak at the PEMEX Deer Park refinery was reported Thursday evening and has left one person dead, according to Harris County Sheriff Ed Gonzalez.

Hydrogen sulfide is a colorless, highly toxic, flammable gas with a characteristic unpleasant odor, often described as smelling like rotten eggs, according to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration.

RELATED: PEMEX Deer Park: Fatal Incident Involving Hydrogen Sulfide Release Reported, Shelter In Place Ordered

The gas occurs naturally in various environments, especially in areas where organic matter breaks down, such as sewers, oil and gas wells, and manure pits. It is also used or can be produced as part of various industries such as oil and gas refining, oil mining and refining, natural gas extraction, and wastewater treatment.

According to OSHA, hydrogen sulfide is one of the leading causes of gas inhalation deaths in the United States.

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Even at a low concentration, the gas is highly flammable and toxic. Because it is heavier than air, it can accumulate in low or poorly ventilated areas such as sewers, manure and fences. After long exposure, it can dull the sense of smell, making it difficult to detect and affecting unprepared workers.

Symptoms of hydrogen sulfide inhalation may include fatigue, cough, eye irritation, headache, shortness of breath, dizziness, nausea, and staggering. Exposure to very high concentrations can cause death.