What is manure gas?
Manure gas is actually a name used for several different gases formed by decomposition of manure. The main gases are methane, carbon dioxide, ammonia, hydrogen sulfide and hydrogen disulfide. In certain concentrations, all of these gases are toxic to animals and humans. When and where are manure gases present? Since most of these gases are heavier-than-air, they tend to settle in low areas of manure storage or accumulation. Methane, which is lighter than air, is found above and around manure storage areas. Gas levels are generally very high at the time of agitation and in cases where ventilating systems are failing or inadequate. But, even a relatively empty manure pit may have high concentrations of toxic gases or may be lacking in oxygen. Always assume that the gases are present in storage areas. Why are manure gases dangerous? In some situations, gases can displace enough of the oxygen in an environment so that a person entering the area is asphyxiated, leading to death. In other ca