h2
Hydrogen
Hydrogen (H2) makes up approximately 75% of the gas on Earth, and is found in light, water, air, plants, and animals, as well as being combined with other chemicals, and is the most abundant element in the known universe.
However, it is colourless, tasteless and odourless meaning it is difficult to detect across different environments.
Although hydrogen is not toxic, it is notoriously flammable and high concentrations in confined spaces will displace oxygen, making gas detection critical for safeguarding personnel at risk of exposure.
Odourless, colourless and tasteless
Invisible
flame
Highly combustible
Lighter
than air
Non-toxic but can displace oxygen
More about hydrogen
Hazard | Extremely flammable, risk of explosion, asphyxiant in high concentrations |
Classification | Flammable gas |
Exposure limits | (OSHA) PEL\TWA: No specific limit (considered an asphyxiant) |
Industries present | Petroleum refining, chemical manufacturing, electronics, fuel cells, welding |
Health effects | Asphyxiation in confined areas, generally non-toxic at low concentrations |
Environmental impact | No direct environmental impact, but may contribute to ozone depletion at high altitudes |
Duration in air | Quickly disperses in the atmosphere due to its light weight |
Although non-toxic, hydrogen can still accumulate in indoor and confined spaces which can result in the displacement of oxygen. Within spaces such as battery storage rooms, for example, a build-up of hydrogen can cause confusion, dizziness, nausea, and irritation to the respiratory system. In severe cases, it causes asphyxiation and even death.
As a fuel, hydrogen is also highly flammable and so, in the case of leaks, there is a serious risk of fire and explosion. Hydrogen disperses upwards and, if ignited, will burn more easily than petrol or diesel. Fires can begin from just a spark of static electricity from a person’s finger, and as hydrogen flames are invisible to the naked eye and don’t produce easily detectable heat until in dangerously close proximity, identifying such fires can be difficult.
As a compressed substance, hydrogen is stored and moved in liquified hydrogen tanks, making it very cold. Therefore, tank leaks can result in severe frostbite, or even the loss of extremities.
In the event of being exposed to hydrogen, individuals should evacuate the hazardous area immediately and rescuers should remain cautious when approaching injured individuals, in case of coming to harm themselves from unseen dangers.
Hydrogen can cause confusion, dizziness, nausea, and irritation to the respiratory system. In the event of contact with the skin and to mitigate frostbite, the affected area must be bathed in warm water immediately, and clothing and jewellery on the affected area removed. In the event of inhalation, rescue breathing or CPR should be administered with immediate effect.
How to detect HYDROGEN
Need some expert advice?
The team here at Crowcon are industry leaders in gas detection, and between us have decades of experience working with and around gases like hydrogen. If you want advice on gas detection and safety, a member of our team is always on hand to walk you through the best resources and advice to keep you, your site, and your personnel safe.
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