Hazards after the storm: Floodwater drainage pump stations and exposure to hydrogen sulfide

摘要

A hurricane can present unique hazards that exist long after the strong winds and heavy rains have subsided. These hazards may not only be physical, but chemical as well. Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) represents an important and potentially overlooked hazard that can be naturally produced in floodwaters following a hurricane. In August of 2012, in the wake of Hurricane Isaac, Plaquemines Parish, Louisiana was submerged under a blanket of floodwater. To remove floodwaters that had breached the levee system designed to keep water out, temporary drainage pump stations were installed at strategic locations. The transfer of floodwaters at these drainage stations resulted in the generation of elevated concentrations of airborne H2S at the pumping stations. The generation of H2S at these pumping stations represented a potential inhalation hazard for workers; thus, awareness for possible H2S exposure at these installments is crucial.