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Sewer Gas Classifications

Sewer gas is a term used to describe the mixture of gases generated by chemical processes in sewage. It has a strong and unpleasant odor. Sewer gas that contains high concentrations of hydrogen sulfide can poison human beings. It can cause asphyxiation if it is breathed in an enclosed space. Some elements of sewer gases are flammable and represent a potential fire hazard.

Methane
- Methane is a chemical compound consisting of one carbon atom attached to four hydrogen atoms. It is colorless, odorless and highly flammable. It can also cause asphyxiation if present in high enough concentrations in enclosed spaces because it displaces oxygen in the air. The effects of asphyxiation include nausea, dizziness and loss of consciousness.
Ammonia
- Ammonia is a chemical compound consisting of one nitrogen atom attached to three hydrogen atoms. It is colorless but has a strong odor, and is a major contributor to the unpleasant smell of sewer gas. In high concentrations ammonia can cause damage to the lungs and even death.
Hydrogen Sulfide
- Hydrogen sulfide is a chemical compound consisting of one sulfur atom attached to two hydrogen atoms. It is colorless, flammable, poisonous to humans and has a strong odor reminiscent of rotten eggs. It is produced by bacteria digesting organic matter in the absence of oxygen.
Carbon Dioxide
- Carbon dioxide consists of one carbon atom attached to two oxygen atoms. Carbon dioxide is produced as a byproduct of respiration of bacteria present in sewers. Carbon dioxide is odorless, colorless and is not harmful to humans except at extremely high concentrations when it can displace oxygen in the air and thus cause death from asphyxiation.

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