Manure Manager

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Be safe dealing with manure


August 28, 2017  by Wallaces Farmer

August 28, 2017, Iowa – The risks of hydrogen sulfide in swine operations have been known for years, but beef operators also need to be aware of the dangers this gas can pose.

Increasing this awareness led Dan Andersen, assistant professor and ag engineering specialist with Iowa State University Extension, to create a series of four publications that provide information and resources to help farmers stay safe when working with manure.

“One breath of hydrogen sulfide at 500 parts per million is enough to render someone unconscious almost immediately,” warns Andersen. “When you are working with a manure pit, and once you realize the gas is a problem, it’s usually too late. Hydrogen sulfide gas smells at 1 to 2 parts per million, but levels above that amount knocks out your ability to smell, so our natural detection system goes away.”

Pit gas monitors recommended

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Information about the importance of monitoring for hydrogen sulfide and the types of monitors available for purchase is available in publication AE 3603, Hydrogen Sulfide Safety — Monitoring.

Monitors are available from ISU Extension, which has several models for farmers to test. READ MORE

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