H2s The Rescue Use safe work practices to avoid exposure. and remember (prevention is better than cure.) The Buddy System The buddy system is the best way to ensure that a rescue is started immediately. There is no time for delay, and the response must be immediate if a team member is overcome. When a buddy is in trouble, their buddy should know, and initiate the seven step initial response strategy as taught in every H2S schools. Safe areas and Head counts are only back-up systems to the buddy system. The buddy system is the backbone and the quick response team The safety of the rescue team is a prime consideration. The rescue must not be carried out unless the rescuers are protected by breathing apparatus and without taking into account the fire hazard associated with a gas leak. The rescue team should also consider delaying such an operation if a sources of ignition is immediately downwind of the leak. Where possible remove the victim from the gas first then stop the leak and allow the gas to blow away, or if it is possible do both. Do not move the victim into a safe area unless you are absolutely sure that the gas will not reach the area where first aid is being done. If in doubt, move farther out (upwind from the source of the gas.) If breathing has stopped, some form of artificial respiration is needed. The sooner this is in force the better and the more likely the victim is to survive without permanent damage. Mouth to mouth artificial respiration is, suggested to be the best treatment for a non breathing victim of H2S. There are three big advantages to mouth to mouth: 1. No chance for mistakes - if you are doing it correctly. You can feel the air go in and feel it come back out against your cheeks. 2. Faster recovery - H2S interferes with the way that nerve cells use oxygen to produce signals. When the nerves of the respiratory system are not sending sufficient signals, breathing stops. The extra carbon dioxide in our breath when we are doing mouth to mouth seems to stimulate the remaining nerve cells so that spontaneous breathing returns more quickly. 3. . A rescuer doing mouth to mouth will be aware of the return of breathing and can place the victim in the recovery position. Some victims experience nausea and vomiting after exposure to H2S. This will not occur until consciousness returns. Consciousness normally doesn't return until after spontaneous breathing returns The victims will be confused and frightened when they regains consciousness and the face to face position allows the best communication. This position also allows the victim to be turned easily at the first sign of vomiting therefore the position the rescuer takes while doing mouth to mouth (kneeling beside the victims head) is also has advantages. There have been reports of convulsions being a symptom of H2S poisoning and the rescuer can easily avoid being struck. Keeping your cool, rescue and resuscitation should be done calmly, quietly and gently After the victim is breathing normally, allow them rest quietly. Keep them warm by using a using a blanket this will help to reduce shock. Talk to them, give them reassurance, let them know the emergency is over and it is once breathing has been restored. Once a victim has recovered sufficiently and they are sitting up and talk normally, any other symptoms of the acid gas effects of H2S exposure can be treated. Eyewash and dark glasses for the sore eyes, a soothing drink such as water or milk for the sore throat. Part of any recovery is the feel good scenario, so when a victim feels up to it they should change their clothes, wash up, gather up their belongings, then they should be taken to medical aid. People that have been involved and lost consciousness from H2S exposure must be seen by a doctor because of the chance of pulmonary edema (Swelling from excessive accumulation of serous fluid in tissue). Do not allow them to make their one way or drive themselves as their coordination has probably been affected. They must not return to work, not only because of their coordination but also because there is the possibility of severe permanent effects on people that are gassed twice in the same day.