Hydrogen sulphide can be just as deadly outside as it is in confined spaces.
Livestock farmers have been warned of the risks of hydrogen sulphide, a deadly gas emitted by slurry which is responsible for farming fatalities every year.
The Wales Farmer Safety Partnership (WFSP) has reminded farmers hydrogen sulphide can be just as deadly outside as it is in confined spaces.
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It added it was more important than ever farmers were aware of the risks now that the new Control of Agricultural Pollution Regulations are in force, with closed periods prohibiting the spreading of slurry and organic manures ranging from August 1 – January 31, depending on land and crop type.
Alun Elidyr, WFSP ambassador, said there was ‘no such thing' as a safe slurry tank.
Slurry tank
Slurry contains multiple gases including methane, ammonia and carbon dioxide but the most dangerous of all is hydrogen sulphide.
Just two or three breaths of this gas is sufficient to disorientate or overcome a person, Mr Elidyr said.
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"This gas is heavier than air so it sits a metre or two above the surface of slurry. Anyone putting their head in that space, especially when a tank is agitated, can breathe it in without realising it,'' he said.
"It has no smell so you will not be able to tell if you have been exposed to it.''
Agitation was particularly dangerous because this process releases the gases.
Farm safety
Livestock can also die from inhaling these fumes.
Mr Elidyr said it was vital to adopt the ‘stop and think safe' mindset before starting a job involving slurry, as was the case with any other farm task.
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"It does not have to be written down, but the effect of having considered it is the most important process in your day, whether it is working with slurry, handling livestock, dipping sheep or working at height.''
He said a ‘buddy system', which is commonplace among foresters and involves lone workers checking in at agreed times with someone, would be highly beneficial for many farming operations, including slurry work. He added he knew of instances where a buddy system had saved lives.
A slurry gas monitor, which can cost less than £200, was advised, although should not be completely relied upon.
