TOXICOLOGICAL PROFILE FOR
 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE
 

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
 

Public Health Service
 

Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
 

November 2016 
DISCLAIMER 

Use of trade names is for identification only and does not imply endorsement by the Agency for Toxic 

Substances and Disease Registry, the Public Health Service, or the U.S. Department of Health and Human 

Services. 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE ii 
UPDATE STATEMENT
 

A Toxicological Profile for Hydrogen Sulfide and Carbonyl Sulfide, Draft for Public Comment was 

released in October 2014. This edition supersedes any previously released draft or final profile. 

Toxicological profiles are revised and republished as necessary. For information regarding the update 

status of previously released profiles, contact ATSDR at: 

Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
 

Division of Toxicology and Human Health Sciences
 

Environmental Toxicology Branch
 

1600 Clifton Road NE
 

Mailstop F-57
 

Atlanta, Georgia 30329-4027
 

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HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE iv 

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HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE v 

FOREWORD 

This toxicological profile is prepared in accordance with guidelines* developed by the Agency for Toxic 

Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The 

original guidelines were published in the Federal Register on April 17, 1987. Each profile will be revised 

and republished as necessary. 

The ATSDR toxicological profile succinctly characterizes the toxicologic and adverse health effects 

information for these toxic substances described therein. Each peer-reviewed profile identifies and 

reviews the key literature that describes a substance's toxicologic properties. Other pertinent literature is 

also presented, but is described in less detail than the key studies. The profile is not intended to be an 

exhaustive document; however, more comprehensive sources of specialty information are referenced. 

The focus of the profiles is on health and toxicologic information; therefore, each toxicological profile 

begins with a public health statement that describes, in nontechnical language, a substance's relevant 

toxicological properties. Following the public health statement is information concerning levels of 

significant human exposure and, where known, significant health effects. The adequacy of information to 

determine a substance's health effects is described in a health effects summary. Data needs that are of 

significance to protection of public health are identified by ATSDR. 

Each profile includes the following: 

(A) The examination, summary, and interpretation of available toxicologic information and 

epidemiologic evaluations on a toxic substance to ascertain the levels of significant human 

exposure for the substance and the associated acute, subacute, and chronic health effects; 

(B) A determination of whether adequate information on the health effects of each substance 

is available or in the process of development to determine levels of exposure that present a 

significant risk to human health of acute, subacute, and chronic health effects; and 

(C) Where appropriate, identification of toxicologic testing needed to identify the types or 

levels of exposure that may present significant risk of adverse health effects in humans. 

The principal audiences for the toxicological profiles are health professionals at the Federal, State, and 

local levels; interested private sector organizations and groups; and members of the public. 

This profile reflects ATSDR’s assessment of all relevant toxicologic testing and information that has been 

peer-reviewed. Staffs of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and other Federal scientists have 

also reviewed the profile. In addition, this profile has been peer-reviewed by a nongovernmental panel 

and was made available for public review. Final responsibility for the contents and views expressed in 

this toxicological profile resides with ATSDR. 

Patrick N. Breysse, Ph.D., CIH
 

Director, National Center for Environmental Health and
 

Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
 

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
 
 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE vi 

*Legislative Background 

The toxicological profiles are developed under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, 

Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980, as amended (CERCLA or Superfund). CERCLA section 

104(i)(1) directs the Administrator of ATSDR to “...effectuate and implement the health related 

authorities” of the statute. This includes the preparation of toxicological profiles for hazardous 

substances most commonly found at facilities on the CERCLA National Priorities List and that pose the 

most significant potential threat to human health, as determined by ATSDR and the EPA. Section 

104(i)(3) of CERCLA, as amended, directs the Administrator of ATSDR to prepare a toxicological profile 

for each substance on the list. In addition, ATSDR has the authority to prepare toxicological profiles for 

substances not found at sites on the National Priorities List, in an effort to “...establish and maintain 

inventory of literature, research, and studies on the health effects of toxic substances” under CERCLA 

Section 104(i)(1)(B), to respond to requests for consultation under section 104(i)(4), and as otherwise 

necessary to support the site-specific response actions conducted by ATSDR. 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE vii 

QUICK REFERENCE FOR HEALTH CARE PROVIDERS 

Toxicological Profiles are a unique compilation of toxicological information on a given hazardous 

substance. Each profile reflects a comprehensive and extensive evaluation, summary, and interpretation 

of available toxicologic and epidemiologic information on a substance. Health care providers treating 

patients potentially exposed to hazardous substances will find the following information helpful for fast 

answers to often-asked questions. 

Primary Chapters/Sections of Interest 

Chapter 1: Public Health Statement: The Public Health Statement can be a useful tool for educating 

patients about possible exposure to a hazardous substance. It explains a substance’s relevant 

toxicologic properties in a nontechnical, question-and-answer format, and it includes a review of 

the general health effects observed following exposure. 

Chapter 2: Relevance to Public Health: The Relevance to Public Health Section evaluates, interprets, 

and assesses the significance of toxicity data to human health. 

Chapter 3: Health Effects: Specific health effects of a given hazardous compound are reported by type 

of health effect (death, systemic, immunologic, reproductive), by route of exposure, and by length 

of exposure (acute, intermediate, and chronic). In addition, both human and animal studies are 

reported in this section. 

NOTE: Not all health effects reported in this section are necessarily observed in the clinical 

setting. Please refer to the Public Health Statement to identify general health effects observed 

following exposure. 

Pediatrics: Four new sections have been added to each Toxicological Profile to address child health 

issues: 

Chapter 1 How Can (Chemical X) Affect Children?
 

Chapter 1 How Can Families Reduce the Risk of Exposure to (Chemical X)?
 

Section 3.7 Children’s Susceptibility
 

Section 6.6 Exposures of Children
 

Other Sections of Interest: 

Section 3.8 Biomarkers of Exposure and Effect 

Section 3.11 Methods for Reducing Toxic Effects 

ATSDR Information Center 

Phone: 1-800-CDC-INFO (800-232-4636) or 1-888-232-6348 (TTY) 

Internet: http://www.atsdr.cdc.gov 

The following additional material is available online at www.atsdr.cdc.gov: 

Case Studies in Environmental Medicine—Case Studies are self-instructional publications designed to 

increase primary care provider’s knowledge of a hazardous substance in the environment and to 

aid in the evaluation of potentially exposed patients. 

Managing Hazardous Materials Incidents is a three-volume set of recommendations for on-scene 

(prehospital) and hospital medical management of patients exposed during a hazardous materials 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE viii 

incident. Volumes I and II are planning guides to assist first responders and hospital emergency 

department personnel in planning for incidents that involve hazardous materials. Volume III— 

Medical Management Guidelines for Acute Chemical Exposures—is a guide for health care 

professionals treating patients exposed to hazardous materials. 

Fact Sheets (ToxFAQsTM) provide answers to frequently asked questions about toxic substances. 

Other Agencies and Organizations 

The National Center for Environmental Health (NCEH) focuses on preventing or controlling disease, 

injury, and disability related to the interactions between people and their environment outside the 

workplace. Contact: NCEH, Mailstop F-29, 4770 Buford Highway, NE, Atlanta, 

GA 30341-3724 • Phone: 770-488-7000 • FAX: 770-488-7015. 

The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) conducts research on occupational 

diseases and injuries, responds to requests for assistance by investigating problems of health and 

safety in the workplace, recommends standards to the Occupational Safety and Health 

Administration (OSHA) and the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA), and trains 

professionals in occupational safety and health. Contact: NIOSH, 395 E Street, S.W., Suite 9200, 

Patriots Plaza Building, Washington, DC 20201 • Phone: (202) 245-0625 or 1-800-CDC-INFO 

(800-232-4636). 

The National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS) is the principal federal agency for 

biomedical research on the effects of chemical, physical, and biologic environmental agents on 

human health and well-being. Contact: NIEHS, PO Box 12233, 104 T.W. Alexander Drive, 

Research Triangle Park, NC 27709 • Phone: 919-541-3212. 

Publically Available Information 

The Association of Occupational and Environmental Clinics (AOEC) has developed a network of clinics 

in the United States to provide expertise in occupational and environmental issues. Contact: 

AOEC, 1010 Vermont Avenue, NW, #513, Washington, DC 20005 • Phone: 202-347-4976 

• FAX: 202-347-4950 • e-mail: AOEC@AOEC.ORG • Web Page: http://www.aoec.org/.

The American College of Occupational and Environmental Medicine (ACOEM) is an association of 

physicians and other health care providers specializing in the field of occupational and 

environmental medicine. Contact: ACOEM, 25 Northwest Point Boulevard, Suite 700, Elk 

Grove Village, IL 60007-1030 • Phone: 847-818-1800 • FAX: 847-818-9266. 

The American College of Medical Toxicology (ACMT) is a nonprofit association of physicians with 

recognized expertise in medical toxicology. Contact: ACMT, 10645 North Tatum Boulevard, 

Suite 200-111, Phoenix AZ 85028 • Phone: 844-226-8333 • FAX: 844-226-8333 • Web Page: 

http://www.acmt.net. 

The Pediatric Environmental Health Speciality Units (PEHSUs) is an interconnected system of specialists 

who respond to questions from public health professionals, clinicians, policy makers, and the 

public about the impact of environmental factors on the health of children and reproductive-aged 

adults. Contact information for regional centers can be found at http://pehsu.net/findhelp.html. 
 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE ix 

The American Association of Poison Control Centers (AAPCC) provide support on the prevention and 

treatment of poison exposures. Contact: AAPCC, 515 King Street, Suite 510, Alexandria VA 

22314 • Phone: 701-894-1858 • Poison Help Line: 1-800-222-1222. 
HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE x 

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HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE xi 

CONTRIBUTORS 

CHEMICAL MANAGER(S)/AUTHOR(S): 

Selene Chou, Ph.D.
 

Jona M. Ogden, M.P.H.
 

Hana R. Pohl, M.D., Ph.D.
 

Franco Scinicariello, M.D., M.P.H.
 

ATSDR, Division of Toxicology and Human Health Sciences, Atlanta, GA
 

Lisa Ingerman, Ph.D., DABT
 

Lynn Barber, M.S.
 

Mario Citra, Ph.D.
 

SRC, Inc., North Syracuse, NY
 

THE PROFILE HAS UNDERGONE THE FOLLOWING ATSDR INTERNAL REVIEWS: 

1. Health Effects Review. The Health Effects Review Committee examines the health effects

chapter of each profile for consistency and accuracy in interpreting health effects and classifying

end points.

2. Minimal Risk Level Review. The Minimal Risk Level Workgroup considers issues relevant to

substance-specific Minimal Risk Levels (MRLs), reviews the health effects database of each

profile, and makes recommendations for derivation of MRLs.

3. Data Needs Review. The Environmental Toxicology Branch reviews data needs sections to

assure consistency across profiles and adherence to instructions in the Guidance.

4. Green Border Review. Green Border review assures the consistency with ATSDR policy.
HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE xii 

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PEER REVIEW
 

A peer review panel was assembled for hydrogen sulfide and carbonyl sulfide. The panel consisted of the 

following members: 

1. Dr. Rui Wang, Office of VP Research, Lakehead University, Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada;

2. Dr. Steven C. Lewis, Principal Scientist, Integrative Policy & Science, Inc., Adjunct Professor,

Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Washington, New Jersey; and

3. Dr. Alan Hall, Clinical Assistant Professor, Department of Preventive Medicine and Biometrics,

University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, Denver, Colorado.

These experts collectively have knowledge of hydrogen sulfide and carbonyl sulfide’s physical and 

chemical properties, toxicokinetics, key health end points, mechanisms of action, human and animal 

exposure, and quantification of risk to humans. All reviewers were selected in conformity with the 

conditions for peer review specified in Section 104(I) (13) of the Comprehensive Environmental 

Response, Compensation, and Liability Act, as amended. 

Scientists from the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) have reviewed the peer 

reviewers' comments and determined which comments will be included in the profile. A listing of the 

peer reviewers' comments not incorporated in the profile, with a brief explanation of the rationale for their 

exclusion, exists as part of the administrative record for this compound. 

The citation of the peer review panel should not be understood to imply its approval of the profile's final 

content. The responsibility for the content of this profile lies with the ATSDR. 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE xiii 
HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE xiv 

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CONTENTS
 

DISCLAIMER ..............................................................................................................................................ii
 

UPDATE STATEMENT .............................................................................................................................iii
 

FOREWORD ................................................................................................................................................v
 

QUICK REFERENCE FOR HEALTH CARE PROVIDERS....................................................................vii
 

CONTRIBUTORS.......................................................................................................................................xi



PEER REVIEW .........................................................................................................................................xiii
 

CONTENTS................................................................................................................................................xv
 

LIST OF FIGURES ...................................................................................................................................xix
 

LIST OF TABLES.....................................................................................................................................xxi
 

1. PUBLIC HEALTH STATEMENT..........................................................................................................1
 

1.1 PUBLIC HEALTH STATEMENT FOR HYDROGEN SULFIDE...............................................1
 

1.2 PUBLIC HEALTH STATEMENT FOR CARBONYL SULFIDE ...............................................7
 

2. RELEVANCE TO PUBLIC HEALTH .................................................................................................13
 

2.1 BACKGROUND AND ENVIRONMENTAL EXPOSURES TO HYDROGEN SULFIDE
 

AND CARBONYL SULFIDE IN THE UNITED STATES .......................................................13
 

2.2 SUMMARY OF HEALTH EFFECTS.........................................................................................15
 

2.3 MINIMAL RISK LEVELS (MRLs) ............................................................................................20
 

3. HEALTH EFFECTS..............................................................................................................................27
 

3.1 INTRODUCTION........................................................................................................................27
 

3.2 DISCUSSION OF HEALTH EFFECTS BY ROUTE OF EXPOSURE .....................................27
 

3.2.1 Inhalation Exposure...............................................................................................................28
 

3.2.1.1 Death..............................................................................................................................28
 

3.2.1.2 Systemic Effects.............................................................................................................32
 

3.2.1.3 Immunological and Lymphoreticular Effects................................................................73
 

3.2.1.4 Neurological Effects ......................................................................................................74
 

3.2.1.5 Reproductive Effects......................................................................................................85
 

3.2.1.6 Developmental Effects...................................................................................................92
 

3.2.1.7 Cancer............................................................................................................................94
 

3.2.2 Oral Exposure ........................................................................................................................95
 

3.2.2.1 Death..............................................................................................................................95
 

3.2.2.2 Systemic Effects.............................................................................................................95
 

3.2.2.3 Immunological and Lymphoreticular Effects................................................................96
 

3.2.2.4 Neurological Effects ......................................................................................................96
 

3.2.2.5 Reproductive Effects......................................................................................................96
 

3.2.2.6 Developmental Effects...................................................................................................96
 

3.2.2.7 Cancer............................................................................................................................96
 

3.2.3 Dermal Exposure ...................................................................................................................96
 

3.2.3.1 Death..............................................................................................................................96
 

3.2.3.2 Systemic Effects.............................................................................................................97
 

3.2.3.3 Immunological and Lymphoreticular Effects................................................................97
 

3.2.3.4 Neurological Effects ......................................................................................................97
 

3.2.3.5 Reproductive Effects......................................................................................................97
 

3.2.3.6 Developmental Effects...................................................................................................97
 

3.2.3.7 Cancer............................................................................................................................97
 

3.3 GENOTOXICITY........................................................................................................................98
 

3.4 TOXICOKINETICS.....................................................................................................................98
 

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HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE xvi 

3.4.1 Absorption .............................................................................................................................99
 

3.4.1.1 Inhalation Exposure .......................................................................................................99
 

3.4.1.2 Oral Exposure ................................................................................................................99
 

3.4.1.3 Dermal Exposure .........................................................................................................100
 

3.4.2 Distribution..........................................................................................................................100
 

3.4.2.1 Inhalation Exposure .....................................................................................................100
 

3.4.2.2 Oral Exposure ..............................................................................................................102
 

3.4.2.3 Dermal Exposure .........................................................................................................102
 

3.4.3 Metabolism..........................................................................................................................102
 

3.4.4 Elimination and Excretion ...................................................................................................105
 

3.4.4.1 Inhalation Exposure .....................................................................................................105
 

3.4.4.2 Oral Exposure ..............................................................................................................106
 

3.4.4.3 Dermal Exposure .........................................................................................................106
 

3.4.5 Physiologically Based Pharmacokinetic (PBPK)/Pharmacodynamic (PD) Models............106
 

3.5 MECHANISMS OF ACTION ...................................................................................................109
 

3.5.1 Pharmacokinetic Mechanisms .............................................................................................109
 

3.5.2 Mechanisms of Toxicity ......................................................................................................109
 

3.5.3 Animal-to-Human Extrapolations........................................................................................111
 

3.6 TOXICITIES MEDIATED THROUGH THE NEUROENDOCRINE AXIS...........................112
 

3.7 CHILDREN’S SUSCEPTIBILITY............................................................................................113
 

3.8 BIOMARKERS OF EXPOSURE AND EFFECT .....................................................................116
 

3.8.1 Biomarkers Used to Identify or Quantify Exposure to Hydrogen Sulfide and Carbonyl
 

Sulfide..................................................................................................................................117
 

3.8.2 Biomarkers Used to Characterize Effects Caused by Hydrogen Sulfide and Carbonyl
 

Sulfide..................................................................................................................................118
 

3.9 INTERACTIONS WITH OTHER CHEMICALS .....................................................................118
 

3.10 POPULATIONS THAT ARE UNUSUALLY SUSCEPTIBLE................................................120
 

3.11 METHODS FOR REDUCING TOXIC EFFECTS....................................................................121
 

3.11.1 Reducing Peak Absorption Following Exposure.................................................................121
 

3.11.2 Reducing Body Burden........................................................................................................121
 

3.11.3 Interfering with the Mechanism of Action for Toxic Effects..............................................121
 

3.12 ADEQUACY OF THE DATABASE ........................................................................................123
 

3.12.1 Existing Information on Health Effects of Hydrogen Sulfide and Carbonyl Sulfide ..........124
 

3.12.2 Identification of Data Needs................................................................................................124
 

3.12.3 Ongoing Studies...................................................................................................................137
 

4. CHEMICAL AND PHYSICAL INFORMATION..............................................................................139
 

4.1 CHEMICAL IDENTITY............................................................................................................139
 

4.2 PHYSICAL AND CHEMICAL PROPERTIES.........................................................................139
 

5. PRODUCTION, IMPORT/EXPORT, USE, AND DISPOSAL..........................................................143
 

5.1 PRODUCTION ..........................................................................................................................143
 

5.2 IMPORT/EXPORT ....................................................................................................................146
 

5.3 USE ............................................................................................................................................146
 

5.4 DISPOSAL.................................................................................................................................148
 

6. POTENTIAL FOR HUMAN EXPOSURE.........................................................................................149
 

6.1 OVERVIEW...............................................................................................................................149
 

6.2 RELEASES TO THE ENVIRONMENT...................................................................................153
 

6.2.1 Air........................................................................................................................................154
 

6.2.2 Water ...................................................................................................................................162
 
6.2.3 Soil.......................................................................................................................................163
 

6.3 ENVIRONMENTAL FATE ......................................................................................................165
 

6.3.1 Transport and Partitioning ...................................................................................................165
 

6.3.2 Transformation and Degradation.........................................................................................167
 

6.3.2.1 Air................................................................................................................................167
 

6.3.2.2 Water............................................................................................................................168
 

6.3.2.3 Sediment and Soil ........................................................................................................169
 

6.3.2.4 Other Media .................................................................................................................169
 

6.4 LEVELS MONITORED OR ESTIMATED IN THE ENVIRONMENT..................................170
 

6.4.1 Air........................................................................................................................................170
 

6.4.2 Water ...................................................................................................................................175
 

6.4.3 Sediment and Soil................................................................................................................176
 

6.4.4 Other Environmental Media ................................................................................................176
 

6.5 GENERAL POPULATION AND OCCUPATIONAL EXPOSURE........................................177
 

6.6 EXPOSURES OF CHILDREN..................................................................................................180
 

6.7 POPULATIONS WITH POTENTIALLY HIGH EXPOSURES ..............................................182
 

6.8 ADEQUACY OF THE DATABASE ........................................................................................182
 

6.8.1 Identification of Data Needs................................................................................................183
 

6.8.2 Ongoing Studies...................................................................................................................186
 

7. ANALYTICAL METHODS................................................................................................................187
 

7.1 BIOLOGICAL MATERIALS....................................................................................................187
 

7.2 ENVIRONMENTAL SAMPLES ..............................................................................................195
 

7.3 ADEQUACY OF THE DATABASE ........................................................................................205
 

7.3.1 Identification of Data Needs................................................................................................206
 

7.3.2 Ongoing Studies...................................................................................................................207
 

8. REGULATIONS, ADVISORIES, AND GUIDELINES.....................................................................209
 

9. REFERENCES ....................................................................................................................................217
 

10. GLOSSARY ......................................................................................................................................249
 

APPENDICES 

A. ATSDR MINIMAL RISK LEVELS AND WORKSHEETS .............................................................A-1
 

B. USER’S GUIDE.................................................................................................................................. B-1
 

C. ACRONYMS, ABBREVIATIONS, AND SYMBOLS...................................................................... C-1
 

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HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE xix 

LIST OF FIGURES
 

3-1. Levels of Significant Exposure to Hydrogen Sulfide – Inhalation.....................................................47
 

3-2. Levels of Significant Exposure to Carbonyl Sulfide – Inhalation......................................................90
 

3-3. Metabolic Pathways of Hydrogen Sulfide........................................................................................103
 

3-4. Conceptual Representation of a Physiologically Based Pharmacokinetic (PBPK) Model for a
 

Hypothetical Chemical Substance....................................................................................................108
 

3-5. Existing Information on Health Effects of Hydrogen Sulfide ..........................................................125
 

3-6. Existing Information on Health Effects of Carbonyl Sulfide ...........................................................126
 

6-1. Frequency of NPL Sites with Hydrogen Sulfide Contamination......................................................150
 

6-2. Frequency of NPL Sites with Carbonyl Sulfide Contamination.......................................................151
 
HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE xx 

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LIST OF TABLES
 

3-1. Levels of Significant Exposure to Hydrogen Sulfide – Inhalation.....................................................33
 

3-2. Levels of Significant Exposure to Carbonyl Sulfide – Inhalation......................................................86
 

4-1. Chemical Identity of Hydrogen Sulfide and Carbonyl Sulfide.........................................................140
 

4-2. Physical and Chemical Properties of Hydrogen Sulfide and Carbonyl Sulfide ...............................141



5-1. Facilities that Produce, Process, or Use Hydrogen Sulfide ..............................................................144
 

5-2. Facilities that Produce, Process, or Use Carbonyl Sulfide ...............................................................147
 

6-1. Releases to the Environment from Facilities that Produce, Process, or Use Hydrogen Sulfide.......155
 

6-2. Releases to the Environment from Facilities that Produce, Process, or Use Carbonyl Sulfide........158
 

6-3. 2011 National Air Emissions for Carbonyl Sulfide..........................................................................161
 

6-4. Percentile Distribution of Annual Mean Hydrogen Sulfide Concentrations (ppm) Measured in
 

Ambient Air at Locations Across the United States.........................................................................174
 

7-1. Analytical Methods for Determining Hydrogen Sulfide, Sulfide, and Thiosulfate in Biological
 

Samples.............................................................................................................................................188
 

7-2. Analytical Methods for Determining Carbonyl Sulfide in Biological Samples...............................194
 

7-3. Analytical Methods for Determining Hydrogen Sulfide and Sulfide in Environmental Samples....196
 

7-4. Analytical Methods for Determining Carbonyl Sulfide in Environmental Samples........................204
 

8-1. Regulations and Guidelines Applicable to Hydrogen Sulfide ..........................................................210
 

8-2. Regulations and Guidelines Applicable to Carbonyl Sulfide ...........................................................214
 

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HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 1 

1. PUBLIC HEALTH STATEMENT

1.1 PUBLIC HEALTH STATEMENT FOR HYDROGEN SULFIDE 

This Public Health Statement summarizes what is known about hydrogen sulfide such as possible health 

effects from exposure and what you can do to limit exposure. 

WHAT IS HYDROGEN SULFIDE? 

Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is a flammable, colorless gas that smells like rotten eggs. People usually can 

smell hydrogen sulfide at low concentrations in air, ranging from 0.0005 to 0.3 parts hydrogen sulfide per 

million parts of air (ppm). At high concentrations, a person might lose their ability to smell it. This is 

important because a person might falsely think that hydrogen sulfide is no longer present; this may 

increase their exposure risk to air levels that may cause serious health effects. 

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) identifies the most serious hazardous waste sites in the 

nation. These sites make up the National Priorities List (NPL) and are sites targeted for long-term federal 

clean-up activities. U.S. EPA has found hydrogen sulfide in at least 34 of the 1,832 current or former 

NPL sites. The total number of NPL sites evaluated for hydrogen sulfide is not known. But the 

possibility remains that as more sites are evaluated, the sites at which hydrogen sulfide is found may 

increase. This information is important because these future sites may be sources of exposure, and 

exposure to hydrogen sulfide may be harmful. 

If you are exposed to hydrogen sulfide, many factors determine whether you’ll be harmed. These include 

how much you are exposed to (dose), how long you are exposed (duration), and how you are exposed 

(route of exposure). You must also consider the other chemicals you are exposed to and your age, sex, 

diet, family traits, lifestyle, and state of health. 

Hydrogen sulfide occurs both naturally and from human-made processes. It is in the gases from 

volcanoes, sulfur springs, undersea vents, swamps, stagnant bodies of water, and in crude petroleum and 

natural gas. Hydrogen sulfide is also associated with municipal sewers and sewage treatment plants, 

swine containment and manure-handling operations, and pulp and paper operations. Other industrial 

sources of hydrogen sulfide include petroleum refineries, natural gas plants, petrochemical plants, coke 
 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 2 

1. PUBLIC HEALTH STATEMENT 

oven plants, food processing plants, and tanneries. Bacteria found in your mouth and gastrointestinal tract 

produce hydrogen sulfide during the digestion of food containing vegetable or animal proteins. 

Hydrogen sulfide is used primarily in the production of sulfur and sulfuric acid. It can also be used to 

make other chemicals such as sodium sulfide and sodium hydrosulfide, which are used to make a variety 

of products. 

WHAT HAPPENS TO HYDROGEN SULFIDE WHEN IT ENTERS THE ENVIRONMENT? 

Most of the hydrogen sulfide released to air comes from natural sources such as swamps, bogs, and 

volcanoes. Hydrogen sulfide can also be released from industrial sources such as petroleum refineries, 

natural gas plants, kraft paper mills, manure treatment facilities, waste water treatment facilities, and 

tanneries. Hydrogen sulfide air concentrations from natural sources range between 0.00011 and 

0.00033 ppm. In urban areas, the air concentrations are generally less than 0.001 ppm. Hydrogen sulfide 

remains in the atmosphere for approximately 1–42 days, depending on the season. It can change into 

sulfur dioxide and sulfates in the air. 

HOW MIGHT I BE EXPOSED TO HYDROGEN SULFIDE? 

Your body makes small amounts of hydrogen sulfide. Hydrogen sulfide is produced by the natural 

bacteria in your mouth. It is also produced when some types of proteins are broken down by bacteria in 

the intestines. 

Hydrogen sulfide might be released to water in liquid waste of an industrial facility or as the result of a 

natural event. It can be naturally present in well water. Hydrogen sulfide concentrations in surface water 

are usually very low because it readily evaporates from water. It can also be present in groundwater. 

Groundwater concentrations of hydrogen sulfide are generally less than 1 ppm; however, measured sulfur 

concentrations in surface and waste waters have ranged from slightly less than 1 to 5 ppm. 

Hydrogen sulfide can enter soil through atmospheric deposition or from spills. In soil, hydrogen sulfide 

is consumed by bacteria, which change it to sulfur. 

The levels of hydrogen sulfide in air and water are typically low. Household exposures to hydrogen 

sulfide can occur through misuse of drain cleaning materials. Hydrogen sulfide can be found in well 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 3 

1. PUBLIC HEALTH STATEMENT 

water and can be formed in hot water heaters, giving tap water a rotten egg odor. Cigarette smoke and 

emissions from gasoline vehicles contain hydrogen sulfide. The general population can be exposed to 

lower levels from accidental or deliberate release of emissions from pulp and paper mills; from natural 

gas drilling and refining operations; and from areas of high geothermal activity, such as hot springs. 

People who work in certain industries can be exposed to higher levels of hydrogen sulfide than the 

general population. These industries include rayon textiles manufacturing, pulp and paper mills, 

petroleum and natural gas drilling operations, and waste water treatment plants. Workers on farms with 

manure storage pits or landfills can also be exposed to higher levels of hydrogen sulfide than the general 

population. As a member of the general public, you might be exposed to higher-than-normal levels of 

hydrogen sulfide if you live near a waste water treatment plant, a gas and oil drilling operation, a farm 

with manure storage or livestock confinement facilities, or a landfill. Exposure from these sources is 

mainly from breathing air that contains hydrogen sulfide. You can find more information about hydrogen 

sulfide exposure in Chapter 6. 

HOW CAN HYDROGEN SULFIDE ENTER AND LEAVE MY BODY? 

Hydrogen sulfide enters your body primarily through the air you breathe. Much smaller amounts can 

enter your body through the skin. Hydrogen sulfide is a gas, so you would not likely be exposed to it by 

ingestion. When you breathe air containing hydrogen sulfide or when hydrogen sulfide comes into 

contact with skin, it is absorbed into the blood stream and distributed throughout the body. In the body, 

hydrogen sulfide is primarily converted to sulfate and is excreted in the urine. Hydrogen sulfide is rapidly 

removed from the body. 

HOW CAN HYDROGEN SULFIDE AFFECT MY HEALTH? 

You are not likely to have health effects if you are exposed to typical environmental concentrations of 

hydrogen sulfide. You can have respiratory and neurological effects if you are exposed to higher 

concentrations of hydrogen sulfide, at least 100 times higher than typical environmental levels. The 

effects can include: 

• Eye irritation 

• Nose irritation 

• Throat irritation 

• Difficulty breathing in people with asthma 

• Headaches 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 4 

1. PUBLIC HEALTH STATEMENT 

• Poor memory 

• Tiredness 

• Balance problems 

If you are exposed to very high concentrations of hydrogen sulfide, you may have severe problems 

breathing even if you do not have a pre-existing respiratory condition. You could lose consciousness if 

you are briefly exposed to very high concentrations (more than 1 million times higher than the amount 

typically found in the environment). If this happens, you may regain consciousness without any other 

effects. However, some people may have longer lasting effects such as headaches, poor attention span, 

poor memory, and poor motor function. 

Hydrogen sulfide has not been shown to cause cancer in humans, and its possible ability to cause cancer 

in animals has not been studied thoroughly. The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and 

the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) have not classified hydrogen sulfide as to its 

carcinogenicity. EPA has determined that data for hydrogen sulfide are inadequate for carcinogenic 

assessment. 

See Chapters 2 and 3 for more information on the health effects from exposure to hydrogen sulfide. 

HOW CAN HYDROGEN SULFIDE AFFECT CHILDREN? 

This section discusses potential health effects of hydrogen sulfide exposure in humans from when they’re 

first conceived to 18 years of age. 

There is very little information on possible health problems in children who have been exposed to 

hydrogen sulfide. Children exposed to hydrogen sulfide may have effects similar to adults. However, we 

do not know whether children are more sensitive to hydrogen sulfide than adults. 

We do not know whether hydrogen sulfide causes birth defects in humans. Studies in laboratory animals 

suggest that exposure to low concentrations of hydrogen sulfide during pregnancy does not cause birth 

defects. 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 5 

1. PUBLIC HEALTH STATEMENT 

HOW CAN FAMILIES REDUCE THE RISK OF EXPOSURE TO HYDROGEN SULFIDE? 

If your doctor finds that you have been exposed to significant amounts of hydrogen sulfide, ask whether 

your children might also be exposed. Your doctor might need to ask your state health department to 

investigate. 

ARE THERE MEDICAL TESTS TO DETERMINE WHETHER I HAVE BEEN EXPOSED TO 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE? 

Hydrogen sulfide and its breakdown products such as thiosulfate can be measured in blood and urine. 

However, the detection of hydrogen sulfide or its metabolites cannot predict the kind of health effects that 

might develop from that exposure. Because hydrogen sulfide and its metabolites leave the body fairly 

rapidly, the tests need to be conducted soon after exposure. 

WHAT RECOMMENDATIONS HAS THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT MADE TO PROTECT 

HUMAN HEALTH? 

The federal government develops regulations and recommendations to protect public health. Regulations 

can be enforced by law. Federal agencies that develop regulations for toxic substances include the 

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), 

and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Recommendations provide valuable guidelines to protect 

public health but are not enforceable by law. Federal organizations that develop recommendations for 

Hydrogen sulfide is part of the natural environment; the general population will have some exposure to 

hydrogen sulfide. How much hydrogen sulfide you are exposed and for how long are two factors that 

could determine whether you get sick. Families can be exposed to more hydrogen sulfide than the general 

population if they live near natural or industrial sources of hydrogen sulfide, such as hot springs, manure 

holding tanks, or pulp and paper mills. However, these exposure levels are generally not high enough to 

make you sick. 

Families can reduce their exposure to hydrogen sulfide by avoiding areas that are sources of hydrogen 

sulfide. For example, individuals of families that live on farms can avoid manure storage areas where 

high concentrations of hydrogen sulfide may be found. 

For more information on the different substances formed by hydrogen sulfide breakdown and on tests to 

detect these substances in the body, see Chapters 3 and 7. 
 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 6 

1. PUBLIC HEALTH STATEMENT 

toxic substances include the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) and the 

National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). 

Regulations and recommendations can be expressed as “not-to-exceed” levels; that is, levels of a toxic 

substance in air, water, soil, or food that do not exceed a critical value usually based on levels that affect 

animals; levels are then adjusted to help protect humans. Sometimes these not-to-exceed levels differ 

among federal organizations. Different organizations use different exposure times (an 8-hour workday or 

a 24-hour day), different animal studies, or emphasize some factors over others, depending on their 

mission. 

Recommendations and regulations are also updated periodically as more information becomes available. 

For the most current information, check with the federal agency or organization that issued the regulation 

or recommendation. 

OSHA set an acceptable ceiling limit of 20 ppm for hydrogen sulfide in workplace air; the ceiling limit is 

a 15-minute time-weighted average that cannot be exceeded at any time during the working day. This is a 

regulation enforceable by law. 

NIOSH recommends a 10-minute ceiling level of 10 ppm for workers. This is not enforceable by law. 

NIOSH also determined that 100 ppm is immediately dangerous to life or health to workers. 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 7 

1. PUBLIC HEALTH STATEMENT 

1.2 PUBLIC HEALTH STATEMENT FOR CARBONYL SULFIDE 

This Public Health Statement summarizes what is known about carbonyl sulfide such as possible health 

effects from exposure and what you can do to limit exposure. 

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) identifies the most serious hazardous waste sites in the 

nation. These sites make up the National Priorities List (NPL) and are sites targeted for long-term federal 

clean-up activities. U.S. EPA has found carbonyl sulfide in at least 4 of the 1,832 current or former NPL 

sites. The total number of NPL sites evaluated for carbonyl sulfide is not known. But the possibility 

remains that as more sites are evaluated, the sites at which carbonyl sulfide is found may increase. This 

information is important because these future sites may be sources of exposure, and exposure to carbonyl 

sulfide may be harmful. 

If you are exposed to carbonyl sulfide, many factors determine whether you’ll be harmed. These include 

how much you are exposed to (dose), how long you are exposed (duration), and how you are exposed 

(route of exposure). You must also consider the other chemicals you are exposed to and your age, sex, 

diet, family traits, lifestyle, and state of health. 

WHAT IS CARBONYL SULFIDE? 

Carbonyl sulfide (COS) is a colorless gas that smells like rotten eggs; it does not have an odor when it is 

free from impurities. Carbonyl sulfide can also be called carbon oxide sulfide and carbon oxysulfide. 

At concentrations of 135 micrograms per cubic meter (μg/m3

) (0.055 ppm), people may be able to smell 

carbonyl sulfide in air. 

Carbonyl sulfide is present in both natural and human-made sources. It can be found in volcanic gases, 

crude petroleum oil, sulfurous waters, marshes, and soils. It is in the emissions from diesel engines, 

natural gas and refinery emissions, and tobacco smoke. 

Carbonyl sulfide does not have many commercial uses, as it is primarily used in small-scale chemical 

syntheses. It is an intermediate in the manufacture of certain herbicides. It may also be used in the 

agricultural industry as a grain fumigant. 
 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 8 

1. PUBLIC HEALTH STATEMENT 

WHAT HAPPENS TO CARBONYL SULFIDE WHEN IT ENTERS THE ENVIRONMENT? 

Carbonyl sulfide can be released into the air, water, and soil at places where it is produced or used. 

Carbonyl sulfide is released to air from natural sources such as soils, wetlands, volcanoes, and oceans. It 

is also released during chemical processing, natural gas and oil recovery, combustion of coal, biomass 

burning, and others. The average carbonyl sulfide level in outdoor air is 0.0018 ppm. Carbonyl sulfide 

can remain in the atmosphere for 2–10 years. 

Carbonyl sulfide in the atmosphere may settle to surface water or soil. Carbonyl sulfide reacts with water 

to form carbon dioxide and hydrogen sulfide. It is expected to rapidly volatilize to air. It does not bind to 

soil. It may move through the soil and enter groundwater. 

HOW MIGHT I BE EXPOSED TO CARBONYL SULFIDE? 

Everybody is exposed to very low levels of carbonyl sulfide in the air. You may also be exposed if you 

consume products such as wheat, oats, barley, and canola shortly after they have been fumigated with 

carbonyl sulfide to increase plant resistance to insects. 

If you are involved in the production or use of carbonyl sulfide, you may be exposed to higher levels in 

the air. You may also be exposed to higher levels if you work in a petroleum refinery or coal distillation 

plant. 

HOW CAN CARBONYL SULFIDE ENTER AND LEAVE MY BODY? 

We know that carbonyl sulfide can enter your body from the air because health effects have been 

observed in studies with animals. We do not know how much or how fast it can enter your body. We do 

not know how carbonyl sulfide is broken down in the body or how it leaves the body. 

HOW CAN CARBONYL SULFIDE AFFECT MY HEALTH? 

We have very little information on the health effects of carbonyl sulfide. The health effects of carbonyl 

sulfide appear to depend on several factors such as how much you are exposed to and the length of that 

exposure. Studies in animals show that nervous system effects can occur after short- or long-term 

exposure. Animal studies show that exposure to high levels of carbonyl sulfide in the air can damage the 

areas of the brain that control movement and process sound information. 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 9 

1. PUBLIC HEALTH STATEMENT 

No human or animal studies have examined whether carbonyl sulfide exposure can cause cancer. HHS, 

IARC, and EPA have not classified carbonyl sulfide as to its carcinogenicity. 

HOW CAN CARBONYL SULFIDE AFFECT CHILDREN? 

This section discusses potential health effects of carbonyl sulfide exposure in humans from when they’re 

first conceived to 18 years of age. 

There is no information on possible health problems in children who have been exposed to carbonyl 

sulfide. Children exposed to high levels of carbonyl sulfide may have similar health effects as adults. 

However, we do not know whether children are more sensitive to carbonyl sulfide than adults. We do not 

know if exposure to carbonyl sulfide will cause birth defects in humans. No studies looked for birth 

defects in animals. 

HOW CAN FAMILIES REDUCE THE RISK OF EXPOSURE TO CARBONYL SULFIDE? 

If your doctor finds that you have been exposed to significant amounts of carbonyl sulfide, ask whether 

your children might also be exposed. Your doctor might need to ask your state health department to 

investigate. 

Carbonyl sulfide is part of the natural environment; the general population will have some exposure to 

carbonyl sulfide. Families can be exposed to higher levels of carbonyl sulfide if they live near natural or 

industrial sources of carbonyl sulfide, such as wetlands, volcanos, or coal combustion. However, their 

exposure levels are generally unlikely to approach those that sicken people exposed at work. Families 

can reduce their exposure to carbonyl sulfide by avoiding areas that are sources of carbonyl sulfide. 

ARE THERE MEDICAL TESTS TO DETERMINE WHETHER I HAVE BEEN EXPOSED TO 

CARBONYL SULFIDE? 

How carbonyl sulfide is broken down in the body and how it is removed from the body is not known. 

Thus, no medical tests have been identified that can determine carbonyl sulfide exposure. 
 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 10 

1. PUBLIC HEALTH STATEMENT 

WHAT RECOMMENDATIONS HAS THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT MADE TO PROTECT 

HUMAN HEALTH? 

The federal government develops regulations and recommendations to protect public health. Regulations 

can be enforced by law. Federal agencies that develop regulations for toxic substances include the 

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), 

and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Recommendations provide valuable guidelines to protect 

public health but cannot be enforced by law. Federal organizations that develop recommendations for 

toxic substances include the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) and the 

National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). 

Regulations and recommendations can be expressed as “not-to-exceed” levels; that is, levels of a toxic 

substance in air, water, soil, or food that do not exceed a critical value usually based on levels that affect 

animals; levels are then adjusted to help protect humans. Sometimes these not-to-exceed levels differ 

among federal organizations. Different organizations use different exposure times (an 8-hour workday or 

a 24-hour day), different animal studies, or emphasize some factors over others, depending on their 

mission. 

Recommendations and regulations are also updated periodically as more information becomes available. 

For the most current information, check with the federal agency or organization that issued the regulation 

or recommendation. 

OSHA and NIOSH have not established regulations for workers exposed to carbonyl sulfide. 

WHERE CAN I GET MORE INFORMATION? 

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact your community or state health or environmental 

quality department, or contact ATSDR at the address and phone number below. ATSDR can also provide 

publically available information regarding medical specialists with expertise and experience recognizing, 

evaluating, treating, and managing patients exposed to hazardous substances. 

•	 Call the toll-free information and technical assistance number at
 

1-800-CDCINFO (1-800-232-4636) or
 
 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 11 

1. PUBLIC HEALTH STATEMENT 

•	 Write to:
 

Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
 

Division of Toxicology and Human Health Sciences
 

1600 Clifton Road NE
 

Mailstop F-57
 

Atlanta, GA 30329-4027
 

Toxicological profiles and other information are available on ATSDR’s web site: 

http://www.atsdr.cdc.gov. 
 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 12 

1. PUBLIC HEALTH STATEMENT 

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HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 13 

2. RELEVANCE TO PUBLIC HEALTH
 

2.1 BACKGROUND AND ENVIRONMENTAL EXPOSURES TO HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND 

CARBONYL SULFIDE IN THE UNITED STATES 

Hydrogen Sulfide. Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is a colorless gas with a characteristic odor of rotten eggs. It 

naturally occurs in the gases from volcanoes, sulfur springs, undersea vents, swamps, stagnant bodies of 

water, and in crude petroleum and natural gas. Additionally, bacteria, fungi, and actinomycetes release 

hydrogen sulfide during the decomposition of sulfur-containing proteins and by the direct reduction of 

sulfate (SO4

2-). Hydrogen sulfide is frequently encountered in various industries and may be released to 

the environment as a result of their operations. Some of these industries include natural gas production, 

municipal sewage pumping and treatment plants, landfilling, swine containment and manure handling, 

pulp and paper production, construction in wetlands, asphalt roofing, pelt processing, animal slaughter 

facilities, tanneries, petroleum refining, petrochemical synthesis, coke production plants, viscose rayon 

manufacture, sulfur production, iron smelting, and food processing. 

Ambient air concentrations of hydrogen sulfide from natural sources range 

between 0.00011 and 0.00033ppm. Concentrations of hydrogen sulfide in urban areas are generally 

<0.001 ppm. Much higher levels (often exceeding 0.09 ppm) have been detected in communities living 

near natural sources of hydrogen sulfide or near industries releasing hydrogen sulfide. 

Humans may be exposed to hydrogen sulfide from both its endogenous production and exogenous 

sources. Most endogenous production apparently results from the metabolism of sulfhydryl-containing 

amino acids (e.g., cysteine) by bacteria present in both the intestinal tract and the mouth; it is also 

produced via enzymatic pathways involving cystathionine-γ-lyase (CSE), cystathionine-β-synthase 

(CBS), and β-mercaptopyruvate sulfurtransferase (MST) in coordination with cysteine aminotransferase 

(CAT) and via a nonenzymatic pathway involving the reduction of elemental sulfur. Hydrogen sulfide 

produced in the mouth is a component of bad breath (halitosis); concentrations of 0.001–0.1 ppm have 

been measured in mouth air. It is generated in the large intestine by the bacterial reduction of inorganic 

sulfate and sulfite, and by fermentation of sulfur-containing amino acids. It can compose up to 10% of 

intestinal gases. In flatus, hydrogen sulfide concentrations as high as 18 ppm were recorded in 

individuals on a normal diet. Approximately half of the 13 subjects produced measurable levels of 

hydrogen sulfide. 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 14 

2. RELEVANCE TO PUBLIC HEALTH 

Hydrogen sulfide is one of three currently recognized endogenously produced gaseous messenger 

molecules referred to as gasotransmitters; nitric oxide and carbon monoxide are the other two 

gasotransmitters. A number of physiological functions have been identified for endogenously-produced 

hydrogen sulfide. In the cardiovascular system, endogenous hydrogen sulfide has been shown to be 

involved in vasoregulation (vasorelaxation and vasodilation) and inhibition and stimulation of vascular 

smooth muscle cell proliferation. In the brain, hydrogen sulfide acts as a neuromodulator; physiological 

concentrations of hydrogen sulfide enhance the N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor mediated 

response and can facilitate the induction of hippocampal long-term potentiation. Hydrogen sulfide has 

also been shown to upregulate GABAB receptor expression and may also be involved in regulating the 

synaptic activity of glial cells, regulation of the hypothalamo-pituitary system, and modulation of pain 

perception. Additionally, there is some evidence to suggest a role of endogenous hydrogen sulfide in 

insulin release from pancreatic islet cells, inflammatory responses, airway smooth muscle restriction and 

relaxation, regulation of various gastrointestinal functions including motility control and inflammatory 

response, and renal tubular function including glomerular filtration rate and sodium reabsorption. The 

cellular and molecular mechanisms for endogenous hydrogen sulfide effects appear to involve activation 

of ion channels including ATP-sensitive potassium channels, calcium-sensitive potassium channels, and 

calcium channels; downregulation of cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP); and downregulation of 

cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP). 

There is considerable individual variability in the odor threshold for hydrogen sulfide in humans; the 

thresholds can range from 0.0005 to 0.3 ppm. However, at concentrations of ≥100 ppm, individuals may 

not detect hydrogen sulfide odor due to olfactory paralysis. 

Carbonyl Sulfide. Like hydrogen sulfide, carbonyl sulfide (COS) is a colorless gas with the odor of 

rotten eggs, although it may be odorless when it is free from impurities. It is abundant in the troposphere 

and can enter the atmosphere from both natural and anthropogenic sources. Carbonyl sulfide is generated 

from wetlands, salt marshes, soil, oceans, deciduous and coniferous trees, and volcanic gases. 

Anthropogenic sources of carbonyl sulfide include production as a chemical intermediate, burning of 

biomass, oxidation of carbon disulfide and dimethyl sulfide, aluminum production; combustion of coal, 

extraction of natural gas and petroleum crude oil, recovery of sulfur, combustion of garbage and plastics, 

manufacture of synthetic fibers, starch, and rubber, fish processing, and automobiles. Carbonyl sulfide 

has also been detected in “Chinese drywall” samples. 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 15 

2. RELEVANCE TO PUBLIC HEALTH 

Carbonyl sulfide has a long lifetime in the troposphere, ranging from 2 to 10 years. It may contribute to 

ozone depletion. While it can be found in water and soils, it generally exists as a gas in the atmosphere. 

As carbonyl sulfide is a component of the global sulfur cycle and exists in the atmosphere at high 

concentrations, the general population may be exposed to carbonyl sulfide through inhalation of ambient 

air. Thus, humans are constantly exposed to low levels of carbonyl sulfide. Occupational exposure is 

primarily a result of its production and use as a chemical intermediate and its production as a byproduct in 

petroleum refining and coal distillation. 

2.2 SUMMARY OF HEALTH EFFECTS 

Hydrogen Sulfide. The general population is primarily exposed to hydrogen sulfide via the inhalation 

route. Although oral and dermal absorption can also occur, these routes only contribute small amounts to 

the overall body burden. Information on the toxicity of hydrogen sulfide in humans comes from case 

reports, occupational studies, and community studies. Hydrogen sulfide tends to be a problem in 

communities located near certain types of industrial sites including pulp and paper mills, natural gas 

production, swine containment and manure handling, or geothermal power plants. The interpretation of 

community studies is often limited by exposure to other chemicals. The human data suggest that the 

respiratory tract and nervous system are the most sensitive targets of hydrogen sulfide toxicity. The most 

commonly reported nonlethal effect found in individuals acutely exposed to high concentrations of 

hydrogen sulfide is unconsciousness followed by apparent recovery, colloquially referred to as 

“knockdown”. In most cases, actual exposure concentrations and durations are not known; estimates 

suggest that the concentrations exceed 500 ppm and the durations are short, typically <1 hour. Although 

there is an apparent recovery, many individuals report permanent or persistent neurological effects 

including headaches, poor concentration ability and attention span, impaired short-term memory, and 

impaired motor function. Respiratory distress or arrest and pulmonary edema are also associated with 

exposure to very high concentrations of hydrogen sulfide; it is believed that these respiratory effects are 

secondary to central nervous system depression or due to tissue hypoxia. Cardiovascular effects (e.g., 

cardiac arrhythmia and tachycardia) have also been observed following an acute exposure to high 

concentrations of hydrogen sulfide. 

Exposure to lower concentrations of hydrogen sulfide can result in less severe neurological and 

respiratory effects. Reported neurological effects include incoordination, poor memory, hallucinations, 

personality changes, and anosmia (loss of sense of smell); the respiratory effects include nasal symptoms, 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 16 

2. RELEVANCE TO PUBLIC HEALTH 

sore throat, cough, and dyspnea. Impaired lung function has also been observed in asthmatics acutely 

exposed to 2 ppm hydrogen sulfide; no alterations in lung function were observed in studies of nonasthmatic workers. 

Animal studies confirm the human data suggesting that the respiratory tract and the nervous system are 

the most sensitive targets of hydrogen sulfide toxicity. As with humans, unconsciousness was observed 

in rats exposed to very high concentrations of hydrogen sulfide (800 ppm); central nervous system 

depression (as evidenced by lethargy) and pulmonary edema were observed in rats exposed to 400 ppm 

hydrogen sulfide for 4 hours. Decreased performance in neurological testing has been observed in rats 

exposed to 80–200 ppm hydrogen sulfide for 5 days to 11 weeks. Damage to the nasal olfactory 

epithelium is also observed in rats exposed to lower levels of hydrogen sulfide for an acute or 

intermediate duration; the adverse effect levels are 80 ppm (3 hours/day for 5 days) and 30 ppm 

(6 hours/day, 7 days/week for 10 weeks) following acute- or intermediate-duration exposure, respectively. 

Information on the toxicity of hydrogen sulfide following oral or dermal/ocular exposure is limited. Oral 

exposure data are limited to a single pig study examining the effects of hydrogen sulfide in feed. 

Observed effects included a diarrheic digestive disorder and decreased body weight gain. Exposure to 

hydrogen sulfide gas can result in a number of ocular effects including keratoconjunctivitis, punctate 

corneal erosion, blepharospasm, lacrimation, and photophobia in humans. A community exposure study 

found a concentration-related increase in the prevalence of eye symptoms in residents exposed to low 

(daily mean of total reduced sulfur <10 μg/m3

), medium (10–30 μg/m3), or high (>30 μg/m3) air levels. 

Although hydrogen sulfide was the primary constituent of the total reduced sulfur levels, other sulfur 

compounds, as well as other air pollutants, may have contributed to the eye irritation. 

There are limited human data suggesting that maternal or paternal exposure to hydrogen sulfide can 

increase the risk of spontaneous abortion among rayon textile, paper products, or petrochemical workers 

(or their spouses). However, the subjects (or their spouses) were exposed to a number of other hazardous 

chemicals that may have contributed to the increased risk. No significant alterations in reproductive 

performance were observed in rats exposed to 10–80 ppm hydrogen sulfide for an intermediate duration. 

The available animal data suggest that hydrogen sulfide is not a developmental toxicant at concentrations 

of 80 ppm and lower. No structural anomalies, developmental delays, performance in developmental 

neurobehavioral tests, or alterations in brain histology were observed in a well-conducted rat study. 

Another study found alterations in Purkinje cell growth in the offspring of rats exposed to 20 or 50 ppm 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 17 

2. RELEVANCE TO PUBLIC HEALTH 

hydrogen sulfide during the gestation and lactation periods; the toxicological significance of this finding 

in the absence of alterations in neurobehavioral performance is not known. 

There are limited data on the potential of hydrogen sulfide to induce cancer in humans. One study found 

significant increases in the risk of developing cancers of the trachea, bronchus, and lung among residents 

exposed to high levels of naturally occurring hydrogen sulfide. However, the authors noted that the 

elevated disease rates were consistent with exposure to high concentrations of hydrogen sulfide and 

mercury; the contribution of mercury to the overall respiratory tract cancer rates cannot be determined 

from these data. Another study did not find significant alterations in cancer incidences among residents 

living near natural gas refineries. The carcinogenicity of hydrogen sulfide has not been assessed in 

animal studies. 

A greater detailed discussion of the hydrogen sulfide-induced respiratory effects and neurological effects 

follows. The reader is referred to Section 3.2, Discussion of Health Effects by Route of Exposure, for 

additional information of these effects and other health effects. 

Respiratory Effects. Exposure to very high concentrations of hydrogen sulfide can result in 

respiratory arrest and/or pulmonary edema. Numerous case reports suggest that these effects can occur 

after a brief exposure to hydrogen sulfide. Although the exact mechanism is not known, there is strong 

evidence to suggest that the rapid respiratory failure and possibly the pulmonary edema are secondary to 

the action of hydrogen sulfide on the respiratory center of the brain. There is also some evidence that the 

respiratory failure and pulmonary edema may be due to a dose-dependent inhibition of cytochrome 

oxidase in lung mitochondria, the terminal step in oxidative metabolism, resulting in tissue hypoxia. At 

low concentrations, hydrogen sulfide is a respiratory irritant. Residents living near industries emitting 

hydrogen sulfide, such as paper mills, hog operations, animal slaughter facilities, or tanneries, reported 

nasal symptoms, cough, or increased visits to the hospital emergency room due to respiratory symptoms 

(including asthma). In general, exposure to hydrogen sulfide has not resulted in significant alterations in 

lung function. No alterations in lung function were observed in workers chronically exposed to 1–11 ppm 

hydrogen sulfide. However, there is some evidence to suggest that asthmatics may be a sensitive 

subpopulation. No statistical alterations in lung function were observed in a group of 10 asthmatics 

exposed to 2 ppm hydrogen sulfide for 30 minutes (as compared with pre-exposure values). However, 

increased airway resistance and decreased specific airway conductance (suggestive of bronchial 

obstruction) were observed in 2 out of the 10 subjects. 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 18 

2. RELEVANCE TO PUBLIC HEALTH 

Although human data are useful in establishing the respiratory tract as a target of toxicity, concentrationresponse relationships cannot be established for most of these studies because exposure levels were not 

monitored or the subjects were exposed to several sulfur compounds. Animal data provide strong 

evidence that the respiratory tract is a sensitive target of hydrogen sulfide toxicity and can be used to 

establish concentration-response relationships. Damage to the nasal olfactory epithelium has been 

observed in rats exposed to hydrogen sulfide for acute or intermediate durations. Loss of olfactory 

neurons and basal cell hyperplasia were observed in rats exposed to 30 ppm and higher for 6 hours/day, 

7 days/week for 10 or 13 weeks. The severity of the olfactory neuron loss was concentration-related. 

However, an inverse relationship between severity and concentration was observed for basal cell 

hyperplasia suggesting that as the concentration increased, the ability of the olfactory epithelium to 

regenerate decreased. Similar effects were observed in rats exposed to hydrogen sulfide once or 

repeatedly for 5 days; however, higher concentrations were needed to elicit a significant response. 

Intermediate-duration exposure (6 hours/day, 5 days/week for 13 weeks) resulted in inflammation of the 

squamous portion of the nasal mucosa in mice exposed to 80 ppm and loss of olfactory neurons in mice 

exposed to 30 ppm and higher. 

Neurological Effects. A brief exposure to very high concentrations of hydrogen sulfide can result in 

unconsciousness in humans and animals followed by an apparent full recovery upon exposure termination 

(some human case reports note that the subjects recovered after administration of oxygen). Human data 

are not reliable for establishing the threshold for this effect because exposure levels were not quantified. 

In rats, the threshold for severe central nervous system depression is between 400 and 800 ppm; exposure 

to 400 ppm was associated with lethargy. As noted previously, persistent neurological effects have been 

reported in humans recovering from hydrogen-sulfide induced unconsciousness. These effects include 

headaches, poor concentration ability and attention span, impaired short-term memory, and impaired 

motor function. 

Exposure to hydrogen sulfide can also result in neurobehavioral effects in humans and animals. 

Alterations in balance, reaction time, visual field, and verbal recall were observed in individuals exposed 

to high concentrations of hydrogen sulfide for an acute duration and in individuals exposed to lower 

levels of hydrogen sulfide for a chronic duration; actual exposure data were not reported, hydrogen 

sulfide levels were estimated based on symptoms. The severity of effects appeared to be related to the 

duration of exposure as well as the exposure concentration. No alterations in performance on tests of 

acuity or visual contrast sensitivity, cognitive tests, or sway tests were observed in young adults exposed 

to 5 ppm hydrogen sulfide for 2 hours; however, the subjects did report an increase in anxiety related to 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 19 

2. RELEVANCE TO PUBLIC HEALTH 

odor irritation. Ecological studies of communities living near industrial sources of hydrogen sulfide have 

found increases in the occurrence of a number of neurological symptoms including headaches, loss of 

balance, memory loss, and fatigue. Several animal studies provide suggestive evidence that hydrogen 

sulfide exposure results in a decrease in motor activity and task response rate; the lowest adverse effect 

level for altered neurobehavioral performance is the decreased spontaneous motor activity observed in 

rats receiving nose-only exposure to 80 ppm, 3 hours/day for 5 days. A rat study found that intermediateduration exposure to hydrogen sulfide did not adversely affect memory; however, learning a new complex 

task was adversely affected at 125 ppm (4 hours/day, 5 days/week). 

Carbonyl Sulfide. The limited information on the toxicity of carbonyl sulfide is from several lethality 

studies in rats, acute toxicity studies in rats, cardiotoxicity studies in rabbits, several neurotoxicity studies 

in rats, and a male reproductive toxicity study in rats. No human data were located and it is assumed that 

the effects observed in the animal studies are relevant to humans. In the absence of studies examining a 

wide range of potential end points, there are insufficient data to identify the most sensitive end point(s) of 

carbonyl sulfide toxicity. 

An 11-day exposure to 151 ppm carbonyl sulfide (6 hours/day, 5 days/week for 11 exposures) resulted in 

a slight increase in methemoglobin levels in rats; however, even at the highest concentrations tested 

(453 ppm), the magnitude of the increases was <2.5% and was not considered toxicologically relevant. In 

rabbits exposed to 54 ppm continuously for 7 weeks, no vascular or myocardial ultrastructural changes 

were observed and no morphological alterations in the coronary or pulmonary arteries, aorta, or lungs 

were observed following continuous exposure to 54 ppm for 7 weeks, although 3/18 animals died at this 

concentration. In a male reproductive toxicity study, a decrease in pregnancy rate was observed in 

unexposed female rats mated to males exposed to 182 ppm for approximately 11 weeks. When exposed 

males were allowed to recover for 10 weeks prior to mating with unexposed females, no reproductive 

effects were observed. 

The most reliably reported effect of carbonyl sulfide is neurotoxicity. Acute- and intermediate-duration 

studies indicate a steep concentration-response relationship in rats. No overt signs of neurotoxicity, 

neurophysiological alterations, alterations in motor activity or grip strength, or histological alterations 

were observed following 2–12 weeks of exposure to ≥300 ppm. However, exposure to 400 ppm for 2– 

12 weeks resulted in hypotonia and slight gait abnormalities, decreases in motor activity and grip 

strength, alterations in brainstem auditory evoked potentials, and necrosis, microgliosis, and/or neuronal 

loss were observed in the parietal cortex, putamen, posterior colliculi, and anterior olivary nuclei. Ataxia 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 20 

2. RELEVANCE TO PUBLIC HEALTH 

was observed at 453 ppm for at least six exposures and morphological alterations consisting of necrosis of 

the frontoparietal cortex, putamen, retrosplenial cortex, thalamus, anterior olivary nucleus, and posterior 

colliculi were observed after 10 days of exposure to 500 ppm. The histological damage in the brain 

appears to occur within a couple of days of exposure initiation and does not appear to worsen with 

prolonged exposure (up to 12 weeks); at 600 ppm, histological alterations were observed following a 

single 6-hour exposure. 

2.3 MINIMAL RISK LEVELS (MRLs) 

Estimates of exposure levels posing minimal risk to humans (MRLs) have been established for hydrogen 

sulfide and carbonyl sulfide. An MRL is defined as an estimate of daily human exposure to a substance 

that is likely to be without an appreciable risk of adverse effects (noncarcinogenic) over a specified 

duration of exposure. MRLs are derived when reliable and sufficient data exist to identify the target 

organ(s) of effect or the most sensitive health effect(s) for a specific duration within a given route of 

exposure. MRLs are based on noncancerous health effects only and do not consider carcinogenic effects. 

MRLs can be derived for acute, intermediate, and chronic duration exposures for inhalation and oral 

routes. Appropriate methodology does not exist to develop MRLs for dermal exposure. 

Inhalation MRLs for Hydrogen Sulfide 

Acute-Duration Inhalation MRL 

•	 An MRL of 0.07 ppm has been derived for acute-duration inhalation exposure to hydrogen 

sulfide. 

A small number of controlled exposure studies have examined the acute toxicity of hydrogen sulfide in 

humans; most of these have focused on potential respiratory and metabolic effects. No significant 

Although methods have been established to derive these levels (Barnes and Dourson 1988; EPA 1990), 

uncertainties are associated with these techniques. Furthermore, ATSDR acknowledges additional 

uncertainties inherent in the application of the procedures to derive less than lifetime MRLs. As an 

example, acute inhalation MRLs may not be protective for health effects that are delayed in development 

or are acquired following repeated acute insults, such as hypersensitivity reactions, asthma, or chronic 

bronchitis. As these kinds of health effects data become available and methods to assess levels of 

significant human exposure improve, these MRLs will be revised. 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 21 

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alterations in lung function (forced lung vital capacity, forced expiratory volume, bronchial 

responsiveness to a histamine challenge, airway resistance, and specific airway conductance) were 

observed in asthmatics exposed to 2 ppm for 30 minutes (Jappinen et al. 1990). However, 2 of the 

10 subjects had >30% changes in airway resistance and specific airway conductance, suggestive of 

bronchial obstruction. Three of the subjects also reported headaches. A series of studies conducted by 

Bhambhani and associates examined the potential of hydrogen sulfide to induce respiratory and metabolic 

effects in exercising adults. No significant alterations in lung function were observed in individuals 

exposed to 10 ppm for 15 minutes (Bhambhani et al. 1996a), but increases in blood lactate levels were 

observed in subjects exposed to 5 or 10 ppm (Bhambhani and Singh 1991; Bhambhani et al. 1997). The 

study authors noted that the increase in lactate levels suggested an increased dependence on anaerobic 

metabolism, which may have resulted from reduced oxygen availability due to detoxification of hydrogen 

sulfide by oxyhemoglobin or inhibition of cytochrome oxidase in exercising tissue (Bhambhani 1999). 

Fiedler et al. (2008) found no alterations in acuity or visual contrast sensitivity tests, cognitive tests, or 

postural sway in healthy young adults exposed to 5 ppm for 2 hours. A decline in verbal learning over the 

exposure period was also observed in subjects exposed to 0.05 or 0.5 ppm, relative to the 5 ppm group. 

The investigators suggested that this was probably due to fatigue or attention lapses during exposure; 

whether hydrogen sulfide contributed to this effect is not known. The subjects reported an increase in 

anxiety at 5 ppm, which was related to odor irritation rather than neurotoxicity. The subjects exposed to 

5 ppm also reported an increase in lower and upper respiratory symptoms; however, the change was only 

1–2 points on a 100-point scale and was not considered clinically significant. 

Animal studies have reported a variety of respiratory effects following acute-duration exposure to 

hydrogen sulfide. Damage to the nasal olfactory epithelium was observed in rats exposed to 400 ppm for 

4 hours (Lopez et al. 1988b), 200 ppm for 3 hours (Brenneman et al. 2002), or 80 ppm 3 hours/day for 

5 days (Brenneman et al. 2002). Pulmonary edema has been observed in rats exposed to 83 or 375 ppm 

for 4 hours (Lopez et al. 1988a; Prior et al. 1990). Neurological effects included decreased spontaneous 

motor activity in rats exposed to 80 ppm, 3 hours/day for 5 days (Struve et al. 2001), impaired 

performance on a discriminated avoidance task in rats exposed to 200 ppm for 2 hours (Higuchi and 

Fukamachi 1977), lethargy in rats exposed to 400 ppm for 4 hours (Lopez et al. 1988b), and 

unconsciousness in rats exposed to 800 ppm for 20 minutes (Beck et al. 1979). 

The Jappinen et al. (1990) study, which found suggestive evidence of bronchial obstruction among 

asthmatics exposed to 2 ppm hydrogen sulfide for 30 minutes, was selected as the basis of the MRL. The 

2 ppm concentration was considered a minimally adverse effect level because the changes in airway 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 22 

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resistance and specific airway conductance were only observed in 2 of the 10 subjects. The lowestobserved-adverse-effect level (LOAEL) from the Jappinen et al. (1990) study is supported by the LOAEL 

of 5 ppm for increased blood lactate levels observed in exercising subjects (Bhambhani et al. 1996b). The 

Jappinen et al. (1990) study was selected over the Bhambhani et al. (1996b) study because the Bhambhani 

studies involved mouth-only exposure so that the subjects could not smell the hydrogen sulfide. The 

MRL was calculated by dividing the unadjusted LOAEL by an uncertainty factor of 27 (3 for use of a 

minimal LOAEL, 3 for human variability, and 3 for database deficiencies). A partial uncertainty factor of 

3 was used for human variability because the study was conducted in asthmatics who are likely to be a 

sensitive subpopulation. The uncertainty factor for database deficiencies was used to account for the 

short (30-minute) exposure duration of the Jappinen et al. (1990) study. Further details on the derivation 

of this MRL can be found in the MRL worksheets in Appendix A of this profile. 

Intermediate-Duration Inhalation MRL. 

•	 An MRL of 0.02 ppm has been derived for intermediate-duration inhalation exposure to hydrogen 

sulfide. 

There are limited data on the toxicity of hydrogen sulfide in humans following intermediate-duration 

exposure. Acute- and chronic-duration studies suggest that the respiratory tract and nervous system are 

sensitive targets of hydrogen sulfide. 

Intermediate-duration animal studies support the identification of the respiratory tract and nervous system 

as sensitive targets. Exposure of rats and mice to low hydrogen sulfide concentrations have resulted in 

histological damage to the upper respiratory tract. Brenneman et al. (2000) reported significant 

concentration-related increases in the incidence and severity of lesions to the nasal olfactory epithelium in 

rats exposed to hydrogen sulfide for 10 weeks. The effects consisted of olfactory neuron loss and basal 

cell hyperplasia in rats exposed to 30 or 80 ppm, 6 hours/day, 7 days/week for 10 weeks; no adverse 

effects were observed at 10 ppm. In contrast, earlier studies conducted by CIIT (1983b, 1983c) did not 

find significant alterations in the nasal turbinates of Sprague-Dawley or Fischer-344 (F-344) rats exposed 

to 80 ppm or less hydrogen sulfide, 6 hours/day, 5 days/week for 13 weeks. Inflammation of the 

squamous portion of the nasal mucosa was observed in mice exposed to 80 ppm hydrogen sulfide 

6 hours/day, 5 days/week for 13 weeks (CIIT 1983a); the no-observed-adverse-effect level (NOAEL) for 

this effect is 30 ppm. However, a re-examination of the histological specimens from this study (Dorman 

et al. 2004) revealed a statistically significant increase in the incidence of olfactory neuron loss in 

Sprague-Dawley rats, F-344 rats, and B6C3F1 mice exposed to 30 or 80 ppm; no lesions were observed at 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 23 

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10 ppm. In addition, increases in the incidence of bronchiolar epithelial hyperplasia and hypertrophy 

were observed in female Sprague-Dawley rats exposed to 30 or 80 ppm and male Sprague-Dawley and 

F-344 rats exposed to 80 ppm. The sensitivity of the olfactory epithelium has also been confirmed by 

acute-duration studies; degeneration of the olfactory epithelium was observed in rats exposed to 400 ppm 

hydrogen sulfide for 4 hours (Lopez et al. 1988b), rats exposed to 200 ppm for 3 hours (Brenneman et al. 

2002), and rats exposed to 80 ppm, 3 hours/day for 5 days (Brenneman et al. 2002). Additionally, data 

collected using a computational fluid dynamics model of the rat nasal epithelium (Moulin et al. 2002) 

suggest that the olfactory epithelium is more sensitive than the nasal respiratory epithelium despite the 

higher hydrogen sulfide flux (a surrogate for dose) to the regions lined with respiratory epithelium 

compared to regions lined with olfactory epithelium. Within the areas of the nose lined with olfactory 

epithelium, a high correlation between predicted hydrogen sulfide flux and the incidence of olfactory 

lesions was found. 

The neurotoxicity of hydrogen sulfide in mature animals following intermediate-duration exposure has 

been assessed in studies examining brain weight, neurological function (posture, gait, tone of facial 

muscles, and pupillary reflexes), and histopathology; neurobehavioral performance has not been 

adequately assessed in longer duration studies. A 5% decrease in absolute brain weight was observed in 

Sprague-Dawley rats exposed to 80 ppm hydrogen sulfide 6 hours/day, 5 days/week for 13 weeks; no 

alterations were observed at 30 ppm (CIIT 1983c). No alterations in histopathology or neurological 

function were observed in these rats (CIIT 1983c) or in similarly exposed F-344 rats (CIIT 1983b) or 

B6C3F1 mice (CIIT 1983a). Neurodevelopmental toxicity studies have found some alterations that are 

suggestive of neurotoxicity. The suggestive findings in the offspring of rats exposed for 7 hours/day on 

gestational day 5 through postnatal day 21 include alterations in the architecture and growth 

characteristics of Purkinje cell dendritic fields at 20 ppm (Hannah and Roth 1991), decreases in 

norepinephrine and increases in serotonin in the frontal cortex at 20 ppm (Skrajny et al. 1992), and 

decreases in brain amino acid levels at 75 ppm (Hannah et al. 1989, 1990). However, no alterations in 

neurobehavioral performance (assessed via motor activity, passive avoidance, acoustic startle, and 

functional observation battery), delays in development (pinnae detachment, surface righting, incisor 

eruption, negative geotaxis, and eyelid detachment), or neuropathology were observed in the offspring of 

rats exposed to 80 ppm hydrogen sulfide 6 hours/day, 7 days/week for 2 weeks prior to mating, during 

mating, on gestational days 5–19, and on postnatal days 5–18 (Dorman et al. 2000). These data suggest 

that exposures of 20–80 ppm may result in subclinical alterations in neurochemistry and neuroanatomy. 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 24 

2. RELEVANCE TO PUBLIC HEALTH 

The Brenneman et al. (2000) study was selected as the basis of the intermediate-duration inhalation MRL. 

In this study, groups of 12 male Sprague-Dawley rats were exposed to 0, 10, 30, or 80 ppm hydrogen 

sulfide for 6 hours/day, 7 days/week for 10 weeks. Parameters used to assess toxicity were limited to 

extensive histopathological examination of the nasal cavity. Nasal lesions occurred only in the olfactory 

mucosa in rats exposed to 30 or 80 ppm and consisted of multifocal, bilaterally symmetrical olfactory 

neuron loss and basal cell hyperplasia affecting the lining of the dorsal medial meatus and the dorsal and 

medial regions of the ethmoid recess. No olfactory lesions were observed in the controls or rats exposed 

to 10 ppm. 

The Brenneman et al. (2000) study was selected over the neurodevelopmental studies (Hannah and Roth 

1991; Skrajny et al. 1992) that identified a slightly lower LOAEL (20 ppm, 7 hours/day, gestation day 5 

to postnatal day 21) because the respiratory tract effects have been confirmed by other studies 

(Brenneman et al. 2002; Lopez et al. 1988b) and the adversity of the alterations in neurochemistry and 

neuroanatomy in the absence of neurological performance alterations is not known. As discussed by 

Ferguson (1996), prenatal exposure to ionizing radiation can result in misalignment of Purkinje cells in 

the cerebellum; clinical signs associated with these neuroanatomical alterations include hypoactivity, 

ataxia, tremors, and learning deficits. A direct comparison of the Purkinje cell alterations reported in the 

Hannah and Roth (1991) study and those resulting from ionizing radiation exposure cannot be made 

because the Hannah and Roth study involved examination of a single Purkinje cell rather than cerebellar 

sections. However, it may be reasonable to predict that the clinical manifestations of the Purkinje cell 

damage would be similar. The similarity of the LOAELs for nasal effects and neurodevelopmental 

effects suggest that an MRL derived for one would be protective of the other. 

Because the incidence of olfactory neuron loss and basal cell hyperplasia went from 0 to 83–92% with no 

intermediate levels of response, the data were not considered suitable for benchmark dose analysis; thus, 

the MRL was derived using the NOAEL/LOAEL approach. A dosimetric model was used to estimate a 

concentration for humans that would be equivalent to the exposure concentration in rats; the model takes 

into account species differences in the surface area of the upper respiratory tract and inhalation rates. 

However, it does not take into consideration that a larger portion of the rat nasal cavity is lined with 

olfactory epithelium compared to humans (50% in rats compared to 10% in humans) and differences in 

air flow patterns. A computational fluid dynamics model (Moulin et al. 2002; Schroeter et al. 2006a, 

2006b) of the rat nasal epithelium developed for hydrogen sulfide found strong correlations between the 

amount of hydrogen sulfide reaching the olfactory tissue and the severity of the lesions (Moulin et al. 

2002) and between hydrogen sulfide flux (uptake by the olfactory tissue) and the lesion incidence 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 25 

2. RELEVANCE TO PUBLIC HEALTH 

(Schroeter et al. 2006a). Although Schroeter et al. (2006a) used the computational fluid dynamics model 

and the data from the Brennenman et al. (2000) rat study to predict a no-effect level in humans, there is 

some uncertainty in the extrapolation because the model is based on data from a single adult male and 

does not take into considerable interindividual variations. A subsequent study (Schroeter et al. 2010) in 

seven normal, healthy individuals (five adults and two children, aged 7 and 8 years) found that variations 

in nasal anatomy and olfactory airflow had little impact on hydrogen sulfide tissue flux in the olfactory 

region; the variation in tissue flux was <1.2. However, the study did not address potential variations in a 

wide range of childhood ages (including newborns and infants) or the sensitivity of hydrogen sulfide 

dosimetry to variation in pharmacokinetic parameters. Using the dosimetric model, the NOAEL of 

10 ppm was adjusted for intermittent exposure (6 hours/day, 7 days/week) and multiplied by the ratio of 

rat to human ventilation rate to nasal cavity surface area (described in greater detail in Appendix A). The 

resultant NOAELHEC of 0.46 ppm was divided by an uncertainty factor of 30 (3 for extrapolation from 

animals to humans with dosimetric adjustments and 10 for human variability) resulting in an MRL of 

0.02 ppm. 

Chronic-Duration Inhalation MRL. Several human studies have examined the chronic toxicity of 

inhaled hydrogen sulfide (Ahlborg 1951; Deane et al. 1977; Hemminki and Niemi 1982; Jaakkola et al. 

1990; Jappinen et al. 1990; Kangas et al. 1984; Schechter et al. 1989; Tenhunen et al. 1983). Most of 

these studies reported increases in the occurrence of subjective symptoms of respiratory irritation in 

workers or residents living near paper mills. Limitations, such as poor exposure characterization 

(including the lack of information on peak exposure levels) and co-exposure to other chemicals, limit the 

use of these studies for MRL derivation. No animal studies examined the chronic toxicity of hydrogen 

sulfide. Thus, a chronic-duration inhalation MRL was not derived. 

Oral MRLs for Hydrogen Sulfide. Information on the toxicity of hydrogen sulfide following oral 

exposure is limited to a dietary exposure study in pigs (Wetterau et al. 1964). The observed effects 

include a 23% decrease in body weight gain at 6.7 mg/kg/day in pigs exposed for 105 days and diarrheic 

digestive disturbances in pigs exposed to 15 mg/kg/day for a few days. Interpretation of this study is 

limited because very few details are reported, (e.g., no information on strain, methods used, number of 

animals studied, or statistics). This study was considered inadequate for MRL derivation. 

Inhalation MRLs for Carbonyl Sulfide. The inhalation toxicity database for carbonyl sulfide was 

considered inadequate for derivation of MRLs. A small number of studies have examined the toxicity of 

carbonyl sulfide in rats and rabbits following acute- or intermediate-duration exposure and have identified 
 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 26 

2. RELEVANCE TO PUBLIC HEALTH 

the nervous system and possibly the reproductive system as targets of toxicity. However, none of these 

studies adequately assessed other potential targets of toxicity. No morphological alterations were 

observed in the lungs, heart, or arteries of rabbits continuously exposed to 54 ppm carbonyl sulfide for 

7 weeks; 3/18 animals died at this concentration (Kamstrup and Hugod 1979). Morphological effects in 

the brain and behavioral effects were observed in rats exposed to ≥400 ppm for 2–12 weeks (Herr et al. 

2007; Monsanto 1985b; Morgan et al. 2004; Morrison et al. 2009; Sills et al. 2004); no effects were 

observed at 300 ppm. A decrease in pregnancy rates was observed in unexposed female rats mated with 

males exposed to 182 ppm carbonyl sulfide for 11 weeks (Monsanto 1987). Additional studies examining 

potential morphological alterations in major tissues and organs, reproductive toxicity in males and 

females, and possibly developmental toxicity are needed to identify critical targets of toxicity and to 

establish dose-response relationships. 

Oral MRLs for Carbonyl Sulfide. No oral MRLs were derived for carbonyl sulfide because no oral 

exposure studies in humans or animals were located. 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 27 

3. HEALTH EFFECTS 

3.1 INTRODUCTION 

The primary purpose of this chapter is to provide public health officials, physicians, toxicologists, and 

other interested individuals and groups with an overall perspective on the toxicology of hydrogen sulfide 

and carbonyl sulfide. It contains descriptions and evaluations of toxicological studies and 

epidemiological investigations and provides conclusions, where possible, on the relevance of toxicity and 

toxicokinetic data to public health. 

3.2 DISCUSSION OF HEALTH EFFECTS BY ROUTE OF EXPOSURE 

To help public health professionals and others address the needs of persons living or working near 

hazardous waste sites, the information in this section is organized first by route of exposure (inhalation, 

oral, and dermal) and then by health effect (death, systemic, immunological, neurological, reproductive, 

developmental, genotoxic, and carcinogenic effects). These data are discussed in terms of three exposure 

periods: acute (14 days or less), intermediate (15–364 days), and chronic (365 days or more). 

A glossary and list of acronyms, abbreviations, and symbols can be found at the end of this profile. 

Levels of significant exposure for each route and duration are presented in tables and illustrated in 

figures. The points in the figures showing no-observed-adverse-effect levels (NOAELs) or lowestobserved-adverse-effect levels (LOAELs) reflect the actual doses (levels of exposure) used in the studies. 

LOAELs have been classified into "less serious" or "serious" effects. "Serious" effects are those that 

evoke failure in a biological system and can lead to morbidity or mortality (e.g., acute respiratory distress 

or death). "Less serious" effects are those that are not expected to cause significant dysfunction or death, 

or those whose significance to the organism is not entirely clear. ATSDR acknowledges that a 

considerable amount of judgment may be required in establishing whether an end point should be 

classified as a NOAEL, "less serious" LOAEL, or "serious" LOAEL, and that in some cases, there will be 

insufficient data to decide whether the effect is indicative of significant dysfunction. However, the 

Agency has established guidelines and policies that are used to classify these end points. ATSDR 

believes that there is sufficient merit in this approach to warrant an attempt at distinguishing between 

"less serious" and "serious" effects. The distinction between "less serious" effects and "serious" effects is 

considered to be important because it helps the users of the profiles to identify levels of exposure at which 

major health effects start to appear. LOAELs or NOAELs should also help in determining whether or not 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 28 

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the effects vary with dose and/or duration, and place into perspective the possible significance of these 

effects to human health. 

The significance of the exposure levels shown in the Levels of Significant Exposure (LSE) tables and 

figures may differ depending on the user's perspective. Public health officials and others concerned with 

appropriate actions to take at hazardous waste sites may want information on levels of exposure 

associated with more subtle effects in humans or animals (LOAELs) or exposure levels below which no 

adverse effects (NOAELs) have been observed. Estimates of levels posing minimal risk to humans 

(Minimal Risk Levels or MRLs) may be of interest to health professionals and citizens alike. 

A User's Guide has been provided at the end of this profile (see Appendix B). This guide should aid in 

the interpretation of the tables and figures for Levels of Significant Exposure and the MRLs. 

3.2.1 Inhalation Exposure 

3.2.1.1 Death 

Hydrogen Sulfide. There have been numerous case reports of human deaths after acute exposure to 

presumably high concentrations (≥500 ppm) of hydrogen sulfide gas (Beauchamp et al. 1984). NIOSH 

(1977a) reported that hydrogen sulfide was the primary occupational cause of unexpected death. Snyder 

et al. (1995), summarizing 10 years of data (1983–1992) from the Poison Control Centers National Data 

Collection system, indicated that at least 29 deaths and 5,563 exposures were attributed to hydrogen 

sulfide during that time period. Most fatal cases associated with hydrogen sulfide exposure occurred in 

relatively confined spaces, such as sewers (Adelson and Sunshine 1966; Christia-Lotter et al. 2007; 

Knight and Presnell 2005; Yalamanachili and Smith 2008), animal processing plants (Breysse 1961), 

waste dumps (Allyn 1931), sludge plants (NIOSH 1985a), tanks and cesspools (Ago et al. 2008; 

Campanya et al. 1989; Freireich 1946; Hagley and South 1983; Morse et al. 1981; Osbern and Crapo 

1981), and other closed environments (Deng and Chang 1987; Parra et al. 1991; Policastro and Otten 

2007). Some cases were suicides that involved mixing household chemicals such as hydrochloric acid 

and lime sulfur to generate hydrogen sulfide gas (Bott and Dodd 2013; Kamijo et al. 2013; Maebashi et 

al. 2011; Reedy et al. 2011; Sams et al. 2013). Almost all individuals described in these reports lost 

consciousness quickly after inhalation of hydrogen sulfide, sometimes after only one or two breaths (the 

so-called "slaughterhouse sledgehammer" effect). Many of the case studies involved accidental 

poisonings for which the concentrations and/or duration of exposure were not known (Allyn 1931; Arnold 

et al. 1985; Burnett et al. 1977; Deng and Chang 1987; Freireich 1946; Hagley and South 1983; Morse et 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 29 

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al. 1981). In some cases, the victims were exposed for a period of time ranging from a few minutes to an 

hour and were unable to be revived (Adelson and Sunshine 1966; Deng and Chang 1987; NIOSH 1989; 

Osbern and Crapo 1981). 

Death occurring after acute exposure to hydrogen sulfide appears to be the result of respiratory failure or 

arrest, with most cases initially presenting with respiratory insufficiency, noncardiogenic pulmonary 

edema, coma, and cyanosis. Three men lost consciousness and died after entering a sewer containing 

high concentrations of hydrogen sulfide; all had the characteristic odor of hydrogen sulfide at autopsy and 

presented with cyanosis and pulmonary edema (Adelson and Sunshine 1966). After being exposed to 

hydrogen sulfide in a bathroom connected to a manure pit, a man developed nausea, vomiting, dizziness, 

dyspnea, and died a few hours later; hemorrhagic bronchitis and asphyxiation were noted as the cause of 

death (Parra et al. 1991). 

Estimates of hydrogen sulfide exposure were available for some of the cases reported involving deaths. 

After developing decerebrate responses to painful stimuli and partial seizures, with subsequent indications 

of brain stem damage, a 16-year-old boy died (Hagley and South 1983). He was exposed to what was 

presumed to be hydrogen sulfide in a liquid manure tank; 2 weeks after exposure, hydrogen sulfide 

concentrations measured 30 cm below the tank manhole were >150 ppm, the detection limit of the 

equipment. In another incident, a 16-year-old boy was 10 meters away from an underground liquid 

manure storage tank (the contents of which had been agitating for 30–60 minutes) when he began 

coughing, vomited, lost consciousness, and died (Morse et al. 1981). Autopsy showed tracheobronchial 

aspiration of stomach contents, focal pulmonary hemorrhages and edema, and small petechial brain 

hemorrhages. Hydrogen sulfide concentrations were found to be >60 ppm (equipment detection limit) 

under similar conditions in the vicinity of the accident 2 days later. Although some other gases common 

to this environment were not detected, it is possible that there was simultaneous exposure to other 

compounds. A boy and his father were overcome and died after inhaling hydrogen sulfide gas from a 

discarded drum at a manufacturing dump (Allyn 1931). Although the concentration of the gas inside the 

drum at the time of exposure was not known, a crude attempt was made to estimate exposure. Gas was 

collected from the drum 2 weeks after the accident and diluted 1:400 with air. A rat exposed to this 

dilution died after 40 seconds of exposure. 

Three of five men lost consciousness within a few minutes of entering a partially drained underground 

liquid manure storage tank and died before reaching the hospital. An autopsy showed that two of the men 

had massive liquid manure pulmonary aspiration, while the third man had fulminant pulmonary edema 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 30 

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without manure aspiration (Osbern and Crapo 1981). Markedly elevated heart-blood sulfide-ion levels 

indicated significant hydrogen sulfide exposure. Air samples analyzed about a week after the accident 

detected only 76 ppm of hydrogen sulfide, but the study authors noted that the environmental conditions 

were probably different (e.g., warmer weather, less-concentrated manure). In another report, two 

maintenance workers at an animal tanning company collapsed and died no more than 45 minutes after 

entering a sewer manhole. A hydrogen sulfide concentration of 200 ppm was obtained just inside the 

manhole 6 days after the accident (NIOSH 1989). In another case, a worker at a poultry feather 

processing plant died after being exposed to hydrogen sulfide gas for an estimated 15–20 minutes 

(Breysse 1961). Testing performed later in the area where the exposure occurred indicated that hydrogen 

sulfide concentrations ranged from 2,000 to 4,000 ppm. Pulmonary, intracranial, and cerebral edema 

along with cyanosis were noted at autopsy. 

Claims for acute hydrogen sulfide exposure that occurred over a 5-year period (1969–1973) in Alberta, 

Canada, primarily among petrochemical workers, were reviewed by Burnett et al. (1977). Acute effects 

noted included coma, disequilibrium, and respiratory insufficiency with pulmonary edema. Of 221 cases, 

there were 14 deaths. A follow-up study of 250 workers’ claims for hydrogen sulfide exposure from 1979 

to 1983 in Alberta, Canada, found 7 fatalities that usually involved the central nervous and respiratory 

systems; hepatic congestion and cardiac petechiae were also noted (Arnold et al. 1985). The difference in 

fatality rate (6% down to 2.8%) was attributed to improved first aid training and an increased awareness 

of the dangers of hydrogen sulfide. 

Only very limited information is available on mortality in humans associated with chronic exposure to 

hydrogen sulfide. Bates et al. (1997), taking advantage of the fact that the New Zealand city of Rotorua is 

in a geothermally active area, conducted a retrospective ecological epidemiologic study in which they 

compared the mortality for selected diseases between residents in Rotorua and the rest of New Zealand. 

Rotorua uses geothermal energy for industrial and domestic heating purposes. Monitoring during the 

1970s found levels of hydrogen sulfide as high as 1 mg/m3 (710 ppb); the most reliable data provided a 

median concentration of 20 μg/m3 (14 ppb) with 35% of the measurements of >70 μg/m3 (50 ppb), and 

10% over 400 μg/m3 (284 ppb). Mortality data examined were limited to the main organ systems known 

to be at risk in hydrogen sulfide exposure (i.e., the nervous, respiratory and cardiovascular/circulatory 

systems) and birth defects. Among these four mortality categories, only deaths due to diseases of the 

respiratory system showed a significantly elevated standardized mortality ratio (SMR=1.18; p<0.001). 

Because the population in the Rotorua area has markedly more Māori (indigenous people of New 

Zealand) than in the rest of New Zealand, and because Māori disease and mortality rates are relatively 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 31 

3. HEALTH EFFECTS 

high compared with those of the non-Māori population, further analysis was carried out with an 

adjustment for ethnicity. When these data were stratified by sex and ethnicity, Māoris females had an 

SMR of 1.61 (p<0.001). Carrying the analysis to minor groupings of disease, significant increases in 

SMR were found for rheumatic fever and chronic rheumatic heart disease (SMR=1.51; p=0.01), 

hypertensive disease (SMR=1.61; p<0.001), pneumonia and influenza (SMR=1.20; p=0.008), and chronic 

obstructive respiratory disease and allied conditions (SMR=1.20; p=0.004). In their analysis of the data, 

the authors note numerous issues with regard to ecologic studies; primarily confounding exposure to other 

agents (e.g., smoking) and ethnicity misclassification. Despite the fact that the data indicate significant 

increases in SMRs, the study authors concluded that “no convincing evidence was found in this study of 

elevated rates of mortality in Rotorua compared with the rest of New Zealand.” They caveat this 

conclusion with three considerations: not all causes of deaths were considered, exposures were 

inadequately characterized, and ethnicity misclassification could have obscured important causes of 

mortality. 

Studies performed using laboratory animals exposed to high concentrations of hydrogen sulfide gas have 

yielded results similar to those observed in humans exposed at high levels. Exposure of Sprague-Dawley 

rats to 1,655 ppm killed all five animals within 3 minutes (Lopez et al. 1989). All male F-344 rats 

exposed to 500–700 ppm hydrogen sulfide gas for 4 hours died, while no rats died when exposed to 

concentrations up to 400 ppm under these conditions (Khan et al. 1990; Lopez et al. 1987, 1988a, 1988b). 

Ten of 10 male Wistar rats died after a 12-minute exposure (mean) to 800 ppm hydrogen sulfide (Beck et 

al. 1979). Concentrations of 335–587 ppm causing death in 50% of the animals tested (LC50) have been 

reported in Sprague-Dawley, F-344, and Long Evans rats exposed to hydrogen sulfide gas for 2–6-hour 

periods (Prior et al. 1988; Tansy et al. 1981). However, there were fewer deaths in approximately the 

same dose range in another study using F-344 rats (Prior et al. 1990). No mortality was reported when 

male Wistar rats were exposed to up to 500 ppm hydrogen sulfide for 2 hours (Higuchi and Fukamachi 

1977). 

No deaths occurred among 30 adult female CB-20 mice exposed to 100 ppm hydrogen sulfide for 

2 hours/day for 1 day (Elovaara et al. 1978), nor in 20 adult female NMRI mice exposed for 1–4 days 

(Savolainen et al. 1980). A third study reported that all six mice exposed to 722 ppm hydrogen sulfide for 

50 minutes died; exposure of six mice to 1,872 ppm hydrogen sulfide resulted in death in 10 minutes 

(Smith and Gosselin 1964). Five Japanese white rabbits died within 30 minutes of exposure to 500– 

1,000 ppm hydrogen sulfide (Kage et al. 1992). 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 32 

3. HEALTH EFFECTS 

No mortality was noted during 90-day studies in which male and female F-344 or Sprague-Dawley rats 

were exposed for 6 hours/day, 5 days/week, to up to 80 ppm hydrogen sulfide (CIIT 1983b, 1983c). 

Similar results were obtained at the same concentrations and conditions in a companion study using 

B6C3F1 mice; although two high-dose animals were killed in extremis, and two control animals were 

found dead in the cage (CIIT 1983a). 

Carbonyl Sulfide. Two studies in male and female rats have calculated LC50 values of 1,082 and 

1,111 ppm for a 4-hour exposure to carbonyl sulfide (DuPont 1981; Monsanto 1985a). Clinical signs 

observed at the higher concentrations (≥1,096 ppm) included convulsions, hypoactivity, and breathing 

difficulties (Monsanto 1985a). The mortality concentration-response curve was steep, with 40% of the 

animals dying at 1,090 ppm, 50% at 1,160 ppm, and 100% at ≥1,210 ppm (DuPont 1981). 

Repeated exposures to lower concentrations also resulted in mortality or morbidity. Rats exposed to 

500 ppm 6 hours/day for 4 days or 600 ppm for 2 days were sacrificed in moribund condition (Morgan et 

al. 2004); however, exposure to 400 ppm (6 hours/day, 5 days/week) for as long as 12 weeks did not 

result in mortality or extreme morbidity (Herr et al. 2007; Morgan et al. 2004; Sills et al. 2004). 

Approximately 20–40% mortality was observed in rabbits continuously exposed to 54 ppm for 5 days 

(Hugod 1981; Hugod and Astrup 1980; Kamstrup and Hugod 1979). 

All reliable LOAEL values for death in each species and duration category are recorded in Table 3-1 and 

plotted in Figure 3-1 for hydrogen sulfide and Table 3-2 and Figure 3-2 for carbonyl sulfide. 

3.2.1.2 Systemic Effects 

The highest NOAEL and all reliable LOAEL values for systemic effects in each species and duration are 

recorded in Table 3-1 and plotted in Figure 3-1. 

Respiratory Effects. 

Hydrogen Sulfide. A variety of respiratory effects (including symptoms of respiratory irritation, altered 

lung function, and respiratory distress) have been observed in workers accidentally exposed to high 

concentrations of hydrogen sulfide, experimental subjects acutely exposed to low levels of hydrogen 

sulfide, chronically exposed workers, and residents living near pulp mill production facilities, hog feeding 

operations, or areas with high geothermal activity. It should be noted that with the exception of the 
201

800

039

500

212

1655

327

587

328

501

329

335

052

375

Table 3-1 Levels of Significant Exposure to Hydrogen Sulfide - Inhalation 

a 

Key to 

Figure 

Species 

(Strain) 

Exposure/ 

Duration/ 

Frequency 

(Route) 

ACUTE EXPOSURE Death 

1 Rat 

(Wistar) 

12 min 

System 

NOAEL 

(ppm) 

Less Serious 

(ppm) 

LOAEL 

Serious 

(ppm) 

800 M (10/10 died) 

Reference Chemical Form 

Beck et al. 1979 

2 Rat 

(Fischer- 344) 

4 hr 500 M (4-6 used; all died) Khan et al. 1990 

3 Rat 

(SpragueDawley) 

3 min 1655 M (5/5 died) Lopez et al. 1989 

4 Rat 

(SpragueDawley, Fischer344, Long Evans) 

2 hr 587 (LC50 ) Prior et al. 1988 

5 Rat 

(SpragueDawley, Fischer344, Long Evans) 

4 hr 501 (LC50) Prior et al. 1988 

6 Rat 

(SpragueDawley, Fischer344, Long Evans) 

6 hr 335 (LC50) Prior et al. 1988 

7 Rat 

(Fischer- 344) 

4 hr 375 M (2/12 died) Prior et al. 1990 
074

444

061

722

237

500

207

552

5

348

10

206

55

Table 3-1 Levels of Significant Exposure to Hydrogen Sulfide - Inhalation (continued) 

a 

Key to Species 

Figure (Strain) 

8 Rat 

(SpragueDawley) 

9 Mouse 

(CD-1) 

10 Rabbit 

(Japanese white) 

Systemic 

11 Human 12 Human 13 Human 

Exposure/ 

Duration/ 

Frequency 

(Route) System NOAEL (ppm) 

LOAEL 

Less Serious 

(ppm) 

Serious 

(ppm) 

Reference Chemical Form 

4 hr 444 (LC50) Tansy et al. 1981 50 min 722 F (6/6 died) Smith and Gosselin 19614-30 min 500 (5/5 died) Kage et al. 1992 

>16 min Resp 5 M Bhambhani and Singh 1

Cardio 5 M Metab 2 M 5 M (increased blood lactate 

during exercise) 

15 min Resp 10 Bhambhani et al. 1996a 

30 min Resp 5 Bhambhani et al. 1994 

Cardio 5 
1

5

1

10

10

363

5

038

2

356

80

200

Table 3-1 Levels of Significant Exposure to Hydrogen Sulfide - Inhalation (continued) 

a 

Key to 

Figure 

Species 

(Strain) 

Exposure/ 

Duration/ 

Frequency 

(Route) System NOAEL (ppm) Less Serious (ppm) 

LOAEL 

Serious 

(ppm) 

Reference Chemical Form 

14 Human 2x30 min Musc/skel 5 M (decrease in citrate 

synthase when exercising at 50% maximum aerobic power) 

Bhambhani et al. 1996b 

15 Human 2x30 min Cardio 10 Bhambhani et al. 1997 

Metab 10 (increase in blood lactate 

and decrease in oxygen uptake) 

16 Human 2 hr Resp 5 Fiedler et al. 2008 

17 Human 30 min Resp b2 (increased airway 

resistance and decreased specific airway conductance in 2/10 asthmatics) 

Jappinen et al. 1990 

18 Rat 

(SpragueDawley) 

3 hr Resp 80 M 200 M (necrosis of olfactory 

epithelium and regeneration of respiratory epithelium in nose) 

Brenneman et al. 2002 
357

30

80

026

194

339

100100

040

10

50

041

50

200

Table 3-1 Levels of Significant Exposure to Hydrogen Sulfide - Inhalation (continued) Exposure/ LOAEL 

Duration/

a 

Key to Species Frequency NOAEL Less Serious Serious Reference (Route) Figure (Strain) System (ppm) (ppm) (ppm) Chemical Form 

19 Rat 

(SpragueDawley) 

3 hr 5 d Resp 30 M 80 M (necrosis of nasal olfactory epithelium in 5/5 

rats) 

Brenneman et al. 2002 

20 Rat 

(Fischer- 344) 

4 hr Resp 194 M (increase in protein and 

lactate dehydrogenase in lavage fluid; focal areas of perivascular edema; proteinaceous material in the alveoli) 

Green et al. 1991 

21 Rat 

(Wistar) 

1 hr Resp 100 M (increased respiration 

rate) 

Higuchi and Fukamachi 

Cardio 100 M (increased blood 

pressure, heart rate) 

22 Rat 

(Fischer- 344) 

4 hr Resp 10 M 50 M (15% reduction in lung 

cytochrome c oxidase activity) 

Khan et al. 1990 

23 Rat 

(Fischer- 344) 

4 hr Resp 50 M 200 M (decreased respiratory 

rate of pulmonary alveolar macrophages stimulated with zymosan) 

Khan et al. 1991 
342

75

75

219

10

256

83

218

400

336

200 400

053

375

066

20

Table 3-1 Levels of Significant Exposure to Hydrogen Sulfide - Inhalation (continued) 

a 

Key to 

Figure 

24 25 26 27 28 29 30 

Exposure/

Duration/

Frequency Species (Route) (Strain) 

Rat 20-60 min (Wistar) Rat 4 hr (Fischer- 344) Rat 4 hr (Fischer- 344) Rat 4 hr (Fischer- 344) Rat 4 hr (Fischer- 344) Rat 4 hr (Fischer- 344) Gn Pig 11 d 

1 hr/d (NS) 

LOAEL 

System 

NOAEL 

(ppm) 

Less Serious 

(ppm) 

Serious 

(ppm) 

Reference Chemical Form 

Resp 75 M (slight congestion) Kohno et al. 1991 

Cardio 75 M (cardiac arrhythmia; 

decreased heart rate) 

Resp 10 M (increased cellularity in 

nasal lavage fluid) 

Lopez et al. 1987 

Resp 83 M (mild perivascular 

edema) 

Lopez et al. 1988a 

Resp 400 M (severe inflammation and Lopez et al. 1988b

necrosis of respiratory and olfactory epithelium) 

Ocular 200 M 400 M (epiphora) Lopez et al. 1988b Resp 375 M (moderate to massive 

pulmonary edema) 

Prior et al. 1990 

Ocular 20 M (eye irritation) Haider et al. 1980 
047

72

266

50

200

364

5

336

2

200

800

346

100

200

220

200 400

Table 3-1 Levels of Significant Exposure to Hydrogen Sulfide - Inhalation (continued) 

a 

Key to 

Figure 

Species 

(Strain) 

Exposure/ 

Duration/ 

Frequency 

(Route) System NOAEL (ppm) 

LOAEL 

Less Serious 

(ppm) 

Serious 

(ppm) 

Reference Chemical Form 

31 Rabbit 

(mixed breeds) 

1.5 hr or 5 d 0.5hr/d 

Cardio 72 (changes in ventricular 

repolarization; cardiac arrhythmia) 

Kosmider et al. 1967 

Immuno/ Lymphoret 

32 Rat 

(Fischer- 344) 

4 hr 50 M 200 M (decreased respiratory 

rate of pulmonary alveolar macrophages stimulated with zymosan) 

Khan et al. 1991 

Neurological 

33 Human 2 hr 5 Fiedler et al. 2008 

34 Human 30 min 2 (headache in 3/10 

asthmatics) 

Jappinen et al. 1990 

35 Rat 

(Wistar) 

20 min 800 M (unconsciousness) Beck et al. 1979 

36 Rat 

(Wistar) 

2 hr 100 M 200 M (decreased response 

rate in conditioned avoidance task) 

Higuchi and Fukamachi 

37 Rat 

(Fischer- 344) 

4 hr 200 M 400 M (lethargy) Lopez et al. 1988b 
361

30

80

065

20

046

72

355

10

30

Table 3-1 Levels of Significant Exposure to Hydrogen Sulfide - Inhalation (continued) 

a 

Key to 

Figure 

Species 

(Strain) 

Exposure/ 

Duration/ 

Frequency 

(Route) System NOAEL (ppm) Less Serious (ppm) 

LOAEL 

Serious 

(ppm) 

Reference Chemical Form 

38 Rat 

(CD) 

3 hr/d 5 d 30 M 80 M (decreased spontaneous motor activity) Struve et al. 2001 

39 Gn Pig 

(NS) 

11 d 1 hr/d 20 M (decreased cerebral hemisphere and brain 

stem total lipids and phospholipids) 

Haider et al. 1980 

40 Rabbit 

(mixed breeds) 

1.5 hr 

INTERMEDIATE EXPOSURE Systemic 

41 Rat 

(SpragueDawley) 

6 hr/d 7 d/wk 10 wk 

Resp 

c

10 M 30 M (olfactory neuron loss 

and basal cell hyperplasia in nasal olfactory epithelium) 

72 (unconsciousness) Kosmider et al. 1967 

Brenneman et al. 2000 
226

10

30

80808080808080808080

Table 3-1 Levels of Significant Exposure to Hydrogen Sulfide - Inhalation (continued) Exposure/ LOAEL 

Duration/

a 

Key to Species Frequency NOAEL Less Serious Serious Reference (Route) Figure (Strain) System (ppm) (ppm) (ppm) Chemical Form 

42 Rat 

(Fischer- 344) 

90 d 5 d/wk 6 hr/d 

Resp 10 30 (olfactory neuron loss in 

the nasal olfactory epithelium) 

CIIT 1983b 

Cardio 80 Gastro 80 Hemato 80 Musc/skel 80 Hepatic 80 Renal 80 Endocr 80 Dermal 80 Ocular 80 Bd Wt 80 
270

10

30

80808080808080808030.5

80

034

20

032

50

75

Table 3-1 Levels of Significant Exposure to Hydrogen Sulfide - Inhalation (continued) Exposure/ LOAEL 

Duration/

a 

Key to Species Frequency NOAEL Less Serious Serious Reference (Route) Figure (Strain) System (ppm) (ppm) (ppm) Chemical Form 

43 Rat 

(SpragueDawley) 

90 d 5 d/wk 6 hr/d 

Resp 10 30 (olfactory neuron loss in 

the nasal olfactory epithelium and bronchiolar epithelial hyperplasia) 

CIIT 1983c 

Cardio Gastro Hemato Musc/skel Hepatic Renal Endocr Dermal Ocular Bd Wt 

80 

80 

80 80 80 80 80 80 80 

30.5 F 80 F (10% decrease in body 

weight) 

44 Rat 

(SpragueDawley) 

Gd 1- Ppd 21 7 hr/d Metab 20 F (50% increase in circulating glucose levels 

in dams) 

Hayden et al. 1990a 

45 Rat 

(SpragueDawley) 

Gd 1- Ppd 21 7 hr/d Hepatic 50 F 75 F (increased maternal liver cholesterol levels) Hayden et al. 1990b 
057

100

150

229

10

8030

80808080808080808030.5

80

Table 3-1 Levels of Significant Exposure to Hydrogen Sulfide - Inhalation (continued) Exposure/ LOAEL 

Duration/

a 

Key to Species Frequency NOAEL Less Serious Serious Reference (Route) Figure (Strain) System (ppm) (ppm) (ppm) Chemical Form 

46 Rat 

(SpragueDawley) 

Gd 6-20 6 hr/d Bd Wt 100 F 150 F (pregnant rats lost weight) Saillenfait et al. 1989 

47 Mouse 

(B6C3F1) 

90 d 5 d/wk 6 hr/d 

Resp 10 80 (inflammation of nasal 

mucosa) 

CIIT 1983a 

30 (olfactory neuron loss in 

the nasal olfactory epithelium) 

Cardio 80 Gastro 80 Hemato 80 Musc/skel Hepatic Renal 

80 80 80 

Endocr 80 Dermal 80 Ocular 80 Bd Wt 30.5 80 (7-14% decrease in body 

weight) 
236

8.58.58.58.58.58.5

267

80

272

80

274

80

227

80

271

30.5

80

Table 3-1 Levels of Significant Exposure to Hydrogen Sulfide - Inhalation (continued) 

a 

Key to 

Figure 

Species 

(Strain) 

Exposure/ 

Duration/ 

Frequency 

(Route) System NOAEL (ppm) Less Serious (ppm) 

LOAEL 

Serious 

(ppm) 

Reference Chemical Form 

48 Pig 

(Crossbred) 

17 d 24 hr/d Resp 8.5 Curtis et al. 1975 

Immuno/ Lymphoret 

49 Rat 

(Fischer- 344) 

90 d 5 d/wk 6 hr/d 

Gastro Hepatic Renal Ocular Bd Wt 

8.5 8.5 8.5 8.5 

8.5 

80 CIIT 1983b 

50 Rat 

(SpragueDawley) 

90 d 5 d/wk 6 hr/d 

80 CIIT 1983c 

51 Mouse 

(B6C3F1) 

90 d 5 d/wk 6 hr/d 

Neurological 

52 Rat 

(Fischer- 344) 

90 d 5 d/wk 6 hr/d 

80 80 

CIIT 1983a CIIT 1983b 

53 Rat 

(SpragueDawley) 

90 d 5 d/wk 6 hr/d 

30.5 M 80 M (5% decrease in brain 

weight) 

CIIT 1983c 
025

50

362

125

230

80

305

80

273

80

358

80

275

80

Table 3-1 Levels of Significant Exposure to Hydrogen Sulfide - Inhalation (continued) 

a 

Key to 

Figure 

Species 

(Strain) 

Exposure/ 

Duration/ 

Frequency 

(Route) System NOAEL (ppm) Less Serious (ppm) 

LOAEL 

Serious 

(ppm) 

Reference Chemical Form 

54 Rat 

(SpragueDawley) 

25 wk 5 d/wk 50 M Gagnaire et al. 1986 

55 Rat 

(SpragueDawley) 

4 hr/d 5 d/wk 5-11 wk 

125 M (impaired learning of new 

tasks on a radial arm maze) 

Partlo et al. 2001 

56 Mouse 

(B6C3F1) 

90 d 5 d/wk 6 hr/d 

Reproductive 

57 Rat 

(Fischer- 344) 

90 d 5 d/wk 6 hr/d 

80 80 

CIIT 1983a CIIT 1983b 

58 Rat 

(SpragueDawley) 

90 d 5 d/wk 6 hr/d 

80 CIIT 1983c 

59 Rat 

(SpragueDawley) 

6 hr/d 7 d/wk 60-70 d 

80 Dorman et al. 2000 

60 Mouse 

(B6C3F1) 

90 d 5 d/wk 6 hr/d 

80 CIIT 1983a 
359

80

073

20

029

50

75

033

75

031

75

056

150

Table 3-1 Levels of Significant Exposure to Hydrogen Sulfide - Inhalation (continued) 

a 

Key to Species 

Figure (Strain) 

Developmental 

61 Rat 

(SpragueDawley) 

62 Rat 

(SpragueDawley) 

63 Rat 

(SpragueDawley) 

64 Rat 

(SpragueDawley) 

65 Rat 

(SpragueDawley) 

66 Rat 

(SpragueDawley) 

Exposure/ 

Duration/ 

Frequency 

(Route) 

6 hr/d 7 d/wk 60-70 d Gd 5 - Ppd 21 7 hr/d Gd 5 - Ppd 21 7 hr/d Gd 1- Ppd 21 7 hr/d Gd 1- Ppd 21 7 hr/d Gd 6-20 6 hr/d 

LOAEL 

NOAEL Less Serious Serious Reference

System (ppm) (ppm) (ppm) Chemical Form 

80 Dorman et al. 2000 

20 F (severe alterations in 

architecture and growth characteristics of Purkinje cell dendritic fields which may be indicative of neurotoxicity) 

Hannah and Roth 1991 

50 75 (decreases in brain 

amino acid levels of pups) 

Hannah et al. 1989, 199

75 F Hayden et al. 1990a 75 F Hayden et al. 1990b 

150 F Saillenfait et al. 1989 
058

20

Table 3-1 Levels of Significant Exposure to Hydrogen Sulfide - Inhalation (continued) Exposure/ LOAEL 

Duration/

a 

Key to Species Frequency NOAEL Less Serious Serious Reference (Route) Figure (Strain) System (ppm) (ppm) (ppm) Chemical Form 

67 Rat 

(SpragueDawley) 

Gd 5 - Ppd 21 7 hr/d 20 F (decreases in norepinephrine in the 

frontal cortex, increase in 

Skrajny et al. 1992 

serotonin in the frontal cortex of pups) 

a The number corresponds to entries in Figure 3-1. b Used to derive an acute-duration Minimal Risk Level (MRL) of 0.07 ppm; concentration divided by an uncertainty factor of 27 (3 for use of a minimal LOAEL, 3 foand 3 for database deficiencies). c Used to derive an intermediate-duration Minimal Risk Level (MRL) of 0.02 ppm. The NOAEL was adjusted for intermittent exposure and multiplied by the regional (RGDR) for extrathoracic effects to calculate a human equivalent concentration (HEC). The NOAELHEC was divided by an uncertainty factor of 30 (3 for extrapolato humans with dosimetric adjustment and 10 for human variability). Bd Wt = body weight; Cardio = cardiovascular; d = day(s); Endocr = endocrine; F = Female; Gastro = gastrointestinal; Gd = gestational day; Gn pig = guinea pig; Hhematological; hr = hour(s); Immuno/Lymphoret = immunological/lymphoreticular; LC50 = lethal concentration, 50% kill; LOAEL = lowest-observed-adverse-effect lemin = minute(s); Metab = metabolism; Musc/skel = musculoskeletal; NOAEL = no-observed-adverse-effect level; NS = not specified; Ppd = post-parturition day; ppm million; Resp = respiratory; wk = week(s) 
De

ReCaMuOcMe

ppm 

10000 

3r
	

1000
	 1r 9m 4r 2r 5r 10h 8r 7r 27r 29r 28r 6r 

18r 23r 28r
	

100
	

20r 

21r 21r 18r 19r 26r 24r 24r 31h 

22r 23r 

19r 

30g 

10 12 22r 25r 15 15 

11 13 16 11 13 14 11 

17 11 

1 

0.1 

0.01 

c-Cat 

d-Dog

r-Rat 

p-Pig

q-Cow 

k-Monkey

m-Mouse 

h-Rabbit 

a-Sheep 

f-Ferret 

j-Pigeon

e-Gerbil 

s-Hamster 

g-Guinea Pig 

n-Mink 

o-Other

 Cancer Effect Level-Animals

 LOAEL, More Serious-Animals

LOAEL, Less Serious-Animals

NOAEL - Animals

 Cancer Effect Level-Humans

 LOAEL, More Serious-Humans

LOAEL, Less Serious-Humans

NOAEL - Humans

 LD50/LC50

Minimal Risk Level

 for effects

 other than

 Cancer 

ath 

spiratory 

rdiovascular 

sculoskeletal 

ular 

tabolic 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 3. HEALTH EFFECTS

Figure 3-1 Levels of Significant Exposure to Hydrogen Sulfide - Inhalation 

Acute (≤14 days) 

Systemic 

47
Immuno/Lymphor

Neurological 

ppm 

10000 

1000 35r 

37r 

32r 36r 37r 

100 36r 38r 40h 

32r 

38r 

39g
	

10
	

33 

34
	

1
	

0.1 

0.01 

c-Cat 

d-Dog

r-Rat 

p-Pig

q-Cow 

k-Monkey

m-Mouse 

h-Rabbit 

a-Sheep 

f-Ferret 

j-Pigeon

e-Gerbil 

s-Hamster 

g-Guinea Pig 

n-Mink 

o-Other

 Cancer Effect Level-Animals

 LOAEL, More Serious-Animals

LOAEL, Less Serious-Animals

NOAEL - Animals

 Cancer Effect Level-Humans

 LOAEL, More Serious-Humans

LOAEL, Less Serious-Humans

NOAEL - Humans

 LD50/LC50

Minimal Risk Level

 for effects

 other than

 Cancer 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 3. HEALTH EFFECTS

Figure 3-1 Levels of Significant Exposure to Hydrogen Sulfide - Inhalation (Continued)
 

Acute (≤14 days)
	

48
Respiratory 

CardiovascuGastrointestHematologicMusculoskelHepatic 

ppm 

1000 

100 

47m 47m 42r 43r 47m 42r 43r 47m 42r 43r 47m 42r 43r 47m 42r 43r 45r 

45r 

47m 41r 42r 43r 

10 47m 41r 42r 43r 48p 48p 48p 

1 

0.1 

0.01 

c-Cat 

d-Dog

r-Rat 

p-Pig

q-Cow 

k-Monkey

m-Mouse 

h-Rabbit 

a-Sheep 

f-Ferret 

j-Pigeon

e-Gerbil 

s-Hamster 

g-Guinea Pig 

n-Mink 

o-Other

 Cancer Effect Level-Animals

 LOAEL, More Serious-Animals

LOAEL, Less Serious-Animals

NOAEL - Animals

 Cancer Effect Level-Humans

 LOAEL, More Serious-Humans

LOAEL, Less Serious-Humans

NOAEL - Humans

 LD50/LC50

Minimal Risk Level

 for effects

 other than

 Cancer 

lar 

inal 

al 

etal 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 3. HEALTH EFFECTS

Figure 3-1 Levels of Significant Exposure to Hydrogen Sulfide - Inhalation (Continued)
 

Intermediate (15-364 days)
	

49
Renal 

EndocrinDermal Ocular Body WMetaboliImmuno/

1000 

ppm 

46r 

100 46r 

47m 42r 43r 47m 42r 43r 47m 42r 43r 47m 42r 43r 47m 42r 43r 51m 49r 50r 

47m 43r 

44r 

10 48p 48p 48p 

1 

0.1 

0.01 

c-Cat 

d-Dog

r-Rat 

p-Pig

q-Cow 

k-Monkey

m-Mouse 

h-Rabbit 

a-Sheep 

f-Ferret 

j-Pigeon

e-Gerbil 

s-Hamster 

g-Guinea Pig 

n-Mink 

o-Other

 Cancer Effect Level-Animals

 LOAEL, More Serious-Animals

LOAEL, Less Serious-Animals

NOAEL - Animals

 Cancer Effect Level-Humans

 LOAEL, More Serious-Humans

LOAEL, Less Serious-Humans

NOAEL - Humans

 LD50/LC50

Minimal Risk Level

 for effects

 other than

 Cancer 

e 

eight 

c 

Lymphor 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 3. HEALTH EFFECTS

Figure 3-1 Levels of Significant Exposure to Hydrogen Sulfide - Inhalation (Continued)
 

Intermediate (15-364 days)
	

Systemic 

50
Neurological 

Reproductive Developmental

ppm 

1000 

66r 55r 

100 

56m 52r 53r 60m 57r 58r 59r 61r 63r 64r 65r 

54r 63r 

53r 

62r 67r 

10 

1 

0.1 

0.01 

c-Cat 

d-Dog

r-Rat 

p-Pig

q-Cow 

k-Monkey

m-Mouse 

h-Rabbit 

a-Sheep 

f-Ferret 

j-Pigeon

e-Gerbil 

s-Hamster 

g-Guinea Pig 

n-Mink 

o-Other

 Cancer Effect Level-Animals

 LOAEL, More Serious-Animals

LOAEL, Less Serious-Animals

NOAEL - Animals

 Cancer Effect Level-Humans

 LOAEL, More Serious-Humans

LOAEL, Less Serious-Humans

NOAEL - Humans

 LD50/LC50

Minimal Risk Level

 for effects

 other than

 Cancer 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 3. HEALTH EFFECTS

Figure 3-1 Levels of Significant Exposure to Hydrogen Sulfide - Inhalation (Continued)
 

Intermediate (15-364 days)
	

51
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 52 

3. HEALTH EFFECTS 

experimental studies, there was concomitant exposure to a number of other compounds including 

ammonia, methyl mercaptan, methyl sulfides, sulfur dioxide, and particulate matter. With acute 

accidental hydrogen sulfide exposure, numerous respiratory effects are observed. Death usually occurs 

after respiratory distress or arrest from the disruption of oxidative metabolism in the brain. Respiratory 

distress has also been noted in individuals who survived after acute exposures (Osbern and Crapo 1981; 

Peters 1981; Shivanthan et al. 2013; Spolyar 1951). Respiratory distress was noted in two workers 

exposed to >40 ppm hydrogen sulfide for <25 minutes (Spolyar 1951). Other respiratory effects of acute 

hydrogen sulfide exposure include noncardiogenic pulmonary edema (Arnold et al. 1985; Burnett et al. 

1977; Deng and Chang 1987; Thoman 1969; Tvedt et al. 1991a, 1991b), sore throat, cough (Burnett et al. 

1977; Jaakkola et al. 1990), and dyspnea (Arnold et al. 1985; Burnett et al. 1977; Krekel 1964; Osbern 

and Crapo 1981; Parra et al. 1991; Ravizza et al. 1982; Stine et al. 1976; Thoman 1969). Cyanosis has 

been reported in a number of case reports and is believed to result from respiratory distress (Arnold et al. 

1985; Shivanthan et al. 2013; Tvedt et al. 1991a, 1991b). In most studies, exposure concentrations and/or 

durations were unknown. Among hydrogen sulfide exposure survivors, respiratory symptoms generally 

subsided within several weeks of exposure, but occasionally persisted for several months or longer 

(Duong et al. 2001; Parra et al. 1991). Acute exposure to >500 ppm hydrogen sulfide is considered to 

cause rapid respiratory failure (Beauchamp et al. 1984). 

As discussed in more detail in Section 3.2.1.1, Bates et al. (1997) found a significant increase in mortality 

from diseases of the respiratory system for residents of the Rotorua area of New Zealand for the period of 

1981–1990. Rotorua is in an area of high geothermal activity; sampling from a campaign in 1978 

indicated a median concentration for hydrogen sulfide of about 20 μg/m3 with 35% of the measurements 

>70 μg/m3 and 10% of the measurements >400 μg/m3

. Problems with the analysis, however, led these 

authors to conclude that there were no clear indications of excess mortality. In a follow-up to this study, 

Bates et al. (2002) used hospital discharge records for 1993–1996 to assess the incidence of respiratory 

disease; unlike the previous study, exposure was classified as high, medium, or low, based on residence at 

the time of discharge. A statistically significant (p<0.001), exposure-related trend for increased incidence 

of respiratory disease was found. The incidence of minor respiratory disease groups was also 

significantly (p<0.01) increased. In general, the incidence of respiratory disease was significantly 

elevated in the high exposure group, but not at lower exposure levels; however, the incidences of other 

diseases of the upper respiratory tract category were increased in all three exposure groups. The 

standardized incidence ratios (SIRs) (and 95% confidence limits) for this category were 1.48 (1.34–1.63), 

1.68 (1.39–2.01), and 1.98 (1.58–2.45) in the low, medium, and high exposure groups, respectively. 

Limitations in the design of this study, such as lack of exposure monitoring data, lack of data on potential 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 53 

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confounding factors (e.g., smoking, differences in socioeconomic status in the different exposure groups), 

lack of residence history data, and lack of information on potential exposure at work, limit the 

interpretation of these data. Subsequent follow-up studies of this population did not find associations 

between hydrogen sulfide exposure and respiratory effects. A study of >1,600 residents living in Rotorua 

for at least 3 years showed a significant trend for decreasing self-reported wheezing as time-weighted 

average (TWA) or maximum hydrogen sulfide levels increased (Bates et al. 2013); no association was 

found with self-reported, doctor-diagnosed asthma. Hydrogen sulfide levels were monitored for 2 weeks 

in the summer and winter using at least 50 passive monitoring devices located in the city. The median 

and mean concentrations were 20.3 and 20.8 ppb, respectively, for residents and 26.4 and 27.0 ppb, 

respectively, for current workplaces. Spirometry testing conducted in approximately 1,200 subjects did 

not find significant associations between TWA or maximum hydrogen sulfide levels and spirometry 

results (Bates et al. 2015). Dividing the subjects into groups based on whether they ever had asthma, 

chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or smoking results did not alter the results. The 

investigators noted there was some evidence of better lung function when subjects with current high 

exposure were compared to subjects with low current exposure. 

ATSDR (Campagna et al. 2004) examined the possible relationship between ambient levels of hydrogen 

sulfide and total reduced sulfur and hospital visits among residents of Dakota City and South Sioux City, 

Nebraska. Total reduced sulfur is the combined concentrations of hydrogen sulfide, methyl mercaptan, 

dimethyl sulfide, and dimethyl disulfide; air monitoring data indicate that hydrogen sulfide was the 

primary constituent of the total reduced sulfur. The primary sources of total reduced sulfur were a beef 

slaughter facility and a leather tanning facility. Among children under 18 years of age, positive 

associations were found between hospital visits for all respiratory disease (including asthma) and the high 

hydrogen sulfide level the previous day and the high levels of total reduced sulfur on the previous day. 

Positive associations were found between hospital visits for asthma and the previous day’s high hydrogen 

sulfide level in adults and total reduced sulfur in children. A high total reduced sulfur or hydrogen sulfide 

level was defined as a 30-minute rolling average of ≥30 ppb. Another study found a weak association 

between the 3-day moving average hydrogen sulfide atmospheric levels in Reykjavik Iceland and the 

number of individuals who were dispensed drugs for the treatment of asthma 3–5 days after the increased 

pollution; the excess risk was 2.0% (95% confidence interval [CI] of 0.4–3.6) (Carlsen et al. 2012). The 

study also found a weak association for PM10 levels. 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 54 

3. HEALTH EFFECTS 

An increase in symptoms of upper and lower respiratory irritation was observed in healthy, young adults 

exposed to 5 ppm hydrogen sulfide for 2 hours; however, the change was only 1– 2 points on a 100-point 

scale and was not considered clinically significant (Fiedler et al. 2008). 

The results of the South Karelia Air Pollution Study, which began in 1986 to evaluate the effects of air 

pollution on human health and the environment, was reported by several investigators: Jaakkola et al. 

(1990), Haahtela et al. (1992), Marttila et al. (1994a, 1994b, 1995), and Partti-Pellinen et al. (1996). In 

the early studies of this series (Haahtela et al. 1992; Jaakkola et al. 1990; Marttila et al. 1994b), levels of 

hydrogen sulfide, sulfur dioxide, particulates, and methyl mercaptan were individually reported. In the 

later studies (Marttila et al. 1994a, 1995; Partti-Pellinen et al. 1996), a complex mixture of ‘malodorous 

sulfur components’ (that included hydrogen sulfide, methyl mercaptan, and methyl sulfides) was 

monitored as total reduced sulfur (TRS). It is not possible, from the information provided, to determine 

precisely what proportion of the TRS is actually hydrogen sulfide, although the authors indicate that it is 

about two-thirds (Marttila et al. 1994b). The fact that in virtually all of these studies, effects were linked 

to exposures to mixtures, even though hydrogen sulfide appears to have been the dominant sulfur 

compound, complicates interpretation of these results. It is probably reasonable to conclude that these 

studies demonstrate that low levels of hydrogen sulfide in combination with other sulfur-containing 

pollutants (and possibly due to combination with particulates and/or sulfur dioxide) can have an adverse 

effect on respiratory health. However, it is not possible at this time to determine whether it is the low 

annual average values of 1–2 μg/m3 TRS, or the daily average concentrations (56 μg/m3 TRS) that are 

associated with these findings. 

In the Jaakkola et al. (1990) study, the responses of populations from three communities (a non-polluted 

community, a moderately polluted community, and a severely polluted community) were compared. 

Initial exposure estimates were derived from dispersion modeling; these estimates were subsequently 

confirmed with measurements taken from monitoring stations located in the two polluted communities. 

These measurements indicated that both the mean and the maximum 4-hour concentrations of hydrogen 

sulfide were higher in the more severely polluted community (4 and 56 μg/m3

; 2.9 and 40 ppb) than in the 

moderately polluted one (2 and 22 μg/m3

; 1.4 and 16 ppb). Particulate measurements made concurrently, 

and sulfur dioxide measurements made subsequently, also showed higher levels in the severely polluted 

community. A cross-sectional, self-administered questionnaire was used to gather data on the occurrence 

(i.e., often or constantly) of a variety of respiratory symptoms and effects during two time periods (the 

past 4 weeks and the previous 12 months). The occurrences of nasal symptoms and cough were found to 

be significantly greater in the subjects living in the two polluted communities when compared to those in 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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the nonpolluted community. Breathlessness/wheezing was also increased, although not to the level of 

statistical significance. All three of these end points showed a dose-related increase; that is, the greatest 

occurrence of symptoms occurred in the more highly-polluted community, followed by the less polluted, 

and then the nonpolluted communities. Because of the mixed exposures, however, the role of hydrogen 

sulfide in these effects is unclear. 

A subsequent report by Marttila et al. (1994b) examined the impact of long-term exposure to the same 

mixture of malodorous sulfur compounds on children from these same three communities. The findings 

in children (i.e., nasal symptoms and cough) in the most severely polluted community were similar to 

those reported in the Jaakkola et al. (1990) study and showed increased risks both for the 4-week and the 

12-month intervals, although none of these risks reached statistical significance. Haahtela et al. (1992) 

reported a significant increase in the number of residents reporting breathlessness (35%) during a period 

of unusually high hydrogen sulfide levels. The maximum concentration was 135 μg/m3 (0.096 ppm) with 

24-hour average concentrations on 2 days of 35 and 43 μg/m3 (0.025 and 0.031 ppm). The number of 

residents reporting breathlessness was 2% 4 months later when the concentrations were lower (levels 

ranged from 0.1 to 3.5 μg/m3 [0.00007–0.0025 ppm] during a 4-hour period). 

Marttila et al. (1995) also examined the relationship between daily exposure to malodorous sulfur 

compounds (measured TRS) from pulp production and reporting of symptoms in a small population 

living in the vicinity of a pulp mill. During the study period, daily mean TRS concentrations varied from 

0 to 82 μg/m3

, and monthly mean concentrations varied from 3 to 19 μg/m3. Following a baseline 

questionnaire, the study was conducted with six consecutive questionnaires after three predefined levels 

of exposure to TRS (daily mean <10 μg/m3

, medium exposure 10–30 μg/m3, and high exposure 

>30 μg/m3

). The study found a dose-related increase in the probability of both nasal (i.e., stuffy or runny 

nose) and pharyngeal irritation. For nasal symptoms, the probability ratios were 3.13 (95% CI=1.25– 

7.25) and 8.50 (95% CI=3.19–18.64) for medium and high exposure, respectively. For pharyngeal 

symptoms, the probability ratios were 2.0 (95% CI=0.92–4.14) and 5.20 (95% CI=1.95–11.99) for the 

medium and high exposure levels, respectively. 

Partti-Pellinen et al. (1996) used a cross-sectional, self-administered questionnaire to assess the eye, 

respiratory tract, and central nervous system symptoms experienced by adults in a slightly polluted and a 

reference community. In the polluted community, the mean annual TRS concentrations were 2–3 μg/m3

, 

the 24-hour average concentrations varied between 0 and 56 μg/m3

, and the maximum 1-hour 

concentration was 155 μg/m3

; there was no TRS detected in the reference community. In the polluted 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 56 

3. HEALTH EFFECTS 

community, the sulfur dioxide annual mean concentration was 1 μg/m3, the 24-hour average 

concentrations varied between 0 and 24 μg/m3

, and the maximum 1-hour concentration was 152 μg/m3. 

In the reference community, the annual mean sulfur dioxide level was 1 μg/m3 and the maximum 1-hour 

concentration was 30 μg/m3

. Symptoms evaluated over the previous 4 weeks and previous 12 months 

included eye irritation, nasal irritation, cough, breathlessness or wheezing, and headache or migraine. 

After adjusting for age, sex, smoking, history of allergic diseases, education, and marital status, increased 

odds ratios were seen for all of these symptoms at both time periods (i.e., previous 4 weeks and 

previous12 months). However, significant increases in odds ratios were seen only for headache or 

migraine in the previous 4 weeks (OR=1.82; 95% CI=1.06–31.5) and in the past 12 months (OR=1.70; 

95% CI=1.05–2.73) and cough in the past 12 months (OR=1.64; 95% CI=1.01–2.64). These findings led 

the authors to conclude that the adverse health effects of TRS occur at lower concentrations than 

previously reported. However, this conclusion is confounded by daily average levels of TRS as high as 

56 μg/m3 and by the presence of sulfur dioxide which, though occurring at the same mean annual 

concentration in the two communities, showed much higher peaks in the polluted community. 

Furthermore, no information was provided on particulate levels, which could also impact the 

interpretation of these findings. 

A significant increase in respiratory symptoms (OR=11.92; 95% CI=4.37–12.42) was reported by 

residents living in two communities (Odessa, Texas and Puna, Hawaii) with chronic low levels of 

industrial sources of hydrogen sulfide, as compared to residents living in two comparable communities 

without known sources of hydrogen sulfide pollution (Legator et al. 2001). The most commonly reported 

respiratory symptoms were wheezing (25–30%), shortness of breath (40–45%), and persistent cough 

(10%); each of these effects had an incidence of approximately 5% in the referent communities. 

Increases in similar respiratory symptoms were also observed in residents of communities where toxic 

waste containing high levels of hydrogen sulfide were illegally dumped in Côte d’Ivoire (Dongo et al. 

2012), in residents living near sour gas/oil fields (sour gas is natural gas containing significant amounts of 

hydrogen sulfide) in southeast New Mexico (Kilburn et al. 2010), and in communities near swine feeding 

operations in east North Carolina (Schinasi et al. 2011). A positive association was found between 

12-hour mean hydrogen sulfide atmospheric concentrations and the incidence of self-reported signs of 

respiratory effects (particularly runny nose, wheezing, and difficulty breathing and nasal irritation) 

(Schinasi et al. 2011). 

Bhambhani and associates conducted a number of studies in young healthy volunteers exposed to 

hydrogen sulfide during exercise via a mouthpiece; the subjects were unable to smell the hydrogen sulfide 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 57 

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and their eyes were not exposed to the gas. Male volunteers were exposed to hydrogen sulfide 

concentrations up to 5 ppm for >16 minutes after graded exercise that was performed to exhaustion 

(Bhambhani and Singh 1991). No effects on expired ventilation or maximum power output were noted, 

but exposure to 5 ppm resulted in a significant increase in maximum oxygen uptake compared to controls. 

Since there were no alterations in maximum cardiac output, the study authors concluded that the increase 

in oxygen uptake was likely due to oxygen being utilized to oxidize sulfide to sulfate rather than an 

increase in the amount of oxygen being utilized by exercising muscles. At exposures to 2 and 5 ppm, the 

respiratory exchange ratio was decreased significantly compared to controls. The study authors attributed 

this to a nonsignificant trend toward increased oxygen uptake and decreased carbon dioxide output 

compared to controls (Bhambhani and Singh 1991). Another study examined the effects of inhalation of 

5 ppm hydrogen sulfide on respiratory physiological parameters and found no changes in the partial 

pressure of oxygen, partial pressure of carbon dioxide, oxygen uptake, percentage of oxygen uptake, 

uptake of carbon dioxide and minute volume, or respiratory exchange ratio in male or female volunteers 

during 30 minutes of submaximal exercise (Bhambhani et al. 1994). Exposure to 10 ppm of hydrogen 

sulfide for 15 minutes during submaximal exercise did not result in significantly altered pulmonary 

function test results in men and women (Bhambhani et al. 1996a) or changes in oxygen partial pressure, 

carbon dioxide partial pressure, oxygen saturation, or pH in men or women (Bhambhani et al. 1997). 

However, exposure to 10 ppm hydrogen sulfide did significantly reduce oxygen uptake, but had no effect 

on carbon dioxide uptake or minute volume. The magnitude in the decrease in oxygen uptake was small 

(5–18%), but was observed in ≥70% of the subjects. 

Pulmonary function tests were performed on persons with asthma exposed to 2 ppm of hydrogen sulfide 

for 30 minutes in a sealed chamber (Jappinen et al. 1990). Although no significant changes were noted in 

airway resistance or specific airway conductance as a group, 2 of 10 subjects showed changes in excess of 

30% in both airway resistance and specific airway conductance (suggestive of bronchial obstruction). No 

statistically significant changes were noted in forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume in 

1 second (FEV1), and forced expiratory flow (Jappinen et al. 1990). Pulmonary function was unaffected 

following the same exposure protocol in 26 male pulp mill workers who had previously had daily 

hydrogen sulfide exposures, usually to <10 ppm (Jappinen et al. 1990). No significant changes were 

noted in FVC, FEV1, or bronchial responsiveness to histamine challenge in this group of workers (which 

included subgroups of smokers, workers with previous allergies, and atopic individuals). 

In a study of residents living near a hog manure lagoon, an increased frequency of shortness of breath 

while climbing stairs was observed when compared to residents living 3 km from the lagoons or residents 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 58 

3. HEALTH EFFECTS 

living in another state. However, there were no increases in the frequency of shortness of breath while at 

rest or while walking (Kilburn 2012). Expiratory flows and vital capacity were also significantly 

decreased in the exposed residents; a higher incidence of chest tightness, dry mouth, and throat tightness 

was also reported. The hydrogen sulfide exposure levels were poorly quantified and the residents were 

likely exposed to other contaminants. The investigators noted that the levels of hydrogen sulfide in 

indoor air samples from 12 homes ranged from 0 to 2,100 ppb and that the levels of two outdoor samples 

were >1,000 ppb. 

Hessel et al. (1997) examined the pulmonary health effects of hydrogen sulfide exposure in a group of 

Canadian oil and gas workers. Exposure to hydrogen sulfide was assessed by questionnaire as was the 

occurrence of respiratory symptoms. In addition, smoking and occupational histories were conducted. 

Lung health was assessed via spirometric testing and by skin prick testing for six common antigens. The 

workers were divided into three exposure groups: no hydrogen sulfide exposure, hydrogen sulfide 

exposure sufficient to produce symptoms, and hydrogen sulfide exposure high enough to cause 

unconsciousness (knockdown). None of the lung function indicators (FEV1, FVC, or FEV1/FVC) differed 

significantly among the three groups. Significantly increased odds ratios (ORs) were seen only in those 

in the knockdown group who showed significant excesses for several symptoms including shortness of 

breath (OR=3.55; 95% CI=1.02–12.4), wheeze with chest tightness (OR=5.15; 95% CI=1.29–20.6), and 

attacks of wheeze (OR=5.08; 95% CI=1.28–20.6). 

In a cross-sectional study of sewer and water treatment workers, Richardson (1995) evaluated the 

association of hydrogen sulfide exposures to reduced lung function using spirometric testing. Job titles 

were used to categorize sewer workers into high, medium, and low exposure groups; however, there was 

no quantification of hydrogen sulfide levels. Water treatment workers who were not occupationally 

exposed to hydrogen sulfide were chosen as a comparison group. Findings included significant 

differences between spirometric values (FEV1/FVC) of sewer and water treatment workers across a 

number of age strata, irrespective of smoking status (although smoking status reduced the impact 

somewhat). When stratified by presumed exposure to hydrogen sulfide, only those sewer workers with 

presumed high exposure showed a significant difference from water treatment workers (although a doserelated trend in lung function at both medium and high exposures was observed). In addition, the 

prevalence OR for obstructive lung disease was 21.0 (95% CI=2.4–237.8) in nonsmoking sewer workers 

with presumed high hydrogen sulfide exposure when compared to nonsmoking water treatment workers. 

The prevalence odds ratio for sewer workers who smoked versus water treatment workers who smoked 

was 1.7 (95% CI=0.2–13.6). 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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In addition to an increase in respiration rate that was noted in Wistar rats exposed to 100–200 ppm 

hydrogen sulfide for 1 hour (Higuchi and Fukamachi 1977), a number of histological and biochemical 

changes have been noted in the respiratory tissues and fluids of animals acutely exposed to hydrogen 

sulfide. Cytotoxicity to both nasal or bronchioalveolar lavage and pulmonary cells was demonstrated in a 

study of male F-344 rats exposed to 0, 10, 200, or 400 ppm hydrogen sulfide for 4 hours and examined at 

1, 20, or 44 hours postexposure (Lopez et al. 1987). Cellularity of nasal lavage fluid was increased at all 

exposure concentrations (due to either exfoliation of degenerated epithelial cells at 1 hour, or exudation of 

polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNs) at 20 hours postexposure) which served as an indicator of cell 

damage. Altered pulmonary vascular permeability (indicated by increased protein in nasal lavage fluids) 

was observed in animals exposed to airborne concentrations of 400 ppm; this condition resolved by 

20 hours postexposure. The increased lactate dehydrogenase activity (at exposure levels of 200 and 

400 ppm) and alkaline phosphatase activity (with exposure to 400 ppm) in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid 

were indicative of toxic effects on the pulmonary epithelium. In addition, pulmonary alveolar 

macrophages from animals exposed to 200 or 400 ppm hydrogen sulfide had some increase in 

cytoplasmic vacuolation, but the bronchoalveolar epithelium did not show signs of cellular degeneration 

or ciliocytophthoria (Lopez et al. 1987). 

In similar experiments, Green et al. (1991) exposed male F-344 rats to 200 and 300 ppm hydrogen sulfide 

for 4 hours and evaluated the impact on lung lavage fluid surface tension, protein concentrations, and 

lactate dehydrogenase activity. These authors found significant increases in protein concentrations and 

lactate dehydrogenase activity at both exposure concentrations, but a significant change in the surface 

tension of lavage fluids only at the higher dose. Focal areas of perivascular edema and proteinaceous 

material in the alveoli were also seen in the lungs of the animals exposed to 200 or 300 ppm. 

Histopathological changes have been reported in the nasal cavity of F-344 rats (Lopez et al. 1988b). Male 

rats were exposed to 0, 10, 200, or 400 ppm hydrogen sulfide for 4 hours. Necrosis and exfoliation of the 

respiratory and olfactory mucosal cells were observed 1 hour postexposure at concentrations >200 ppm. 

By 20 hours postexposure, the respiratory epithelium was covered by a layer of deeply basophilic cells 

containing mitotic figures and a severe inflammatory response was noted. The necrosis ultimately 

ulcerated the respiratory epithelium, causing exposure of the basement membrane (Lopez et al. 1988b). 

Although some histological changes were observed at 10 and 200 ppm hydrogen sulfide, no dose 

response was evident; it appears that a concentration >200 ppm is necessary to induce these lesions 

(Lopez et al. 1988b). 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 60 

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Similarly, Brenneman et al. (2002) observed bilateral symmetrical mucosal necrosis in the nasal olfactory 

epithelium and respiratory epithelial regeneration in rats exposed to 200 or 400 ppm hydrogen sulfide for 

3 hours; the NOAEL for these effects is 80 ppm. However, the respiratory epithelium was not adversely 

affected in rats similarly exposed 3 hours/day for 5 days (Brenneman et al. 2002). In these rats, necrotic 

olfactory epithelium and hyperplastic basal cells were observed when exposed to 80, 200, or 400 ppm, but 

not at 30 ppm. A partial regeneration of the olfactory epithelium was observed 2 weeks after exposure 

termination and a complete regeneration was observed 6 weeks postexposure. 

In another study, bilaterally symmetrically, mild respiratory epithelial damage was also observed in rats 

exposed to 200 ppm hydrogen sulfide for 3 hours (Roberts et al. 2008). Infiltration with inflammatory 

cells was observed 3 hours postexposure, epithelial sloughing and loss of the basal cellular structure were 

observed 6 hours postexposure, and epithelial regeneration was observed at 24 hours postexposure. A 

complete recovery of the epithelial damage was observed after 5 consecutive days of exposure to 

200 ppm for 3 hours/day (Roberts et al. 2008). 

Cytochrome c oxidase activity in lung mitochondria of F-344 rats was significantly decreased at 50 ppm 

(15%), 200 ppm (43%), and 400 ppm (68%) hydrogen sulfide compared to controls after a 4-hour 

exposure (Khan et al. 1990). By 24 hours postexposure, cytochrome c oxidase activity had returned to 

normal for animals exposed to 200 ppm, but not for those exposed to 400 ppm. Succinate oxidase 

activity was reduced at 200 ppm (40%) and 400 ppm (63%), but was not affected at 50 ppm (Khan et al. 

1990). A 5-week exposure to 10 or 100 ppm hydrogen sulfide (8 hours/day, 5 days/week) also resulted in 

significant decreases in cytochrome oxidase activity in lung mitochondria (Khan et al. 1998); exposure to 

1 ppm did not result in significant alterations. 

Significant decreases in numbers of viable pulmonary alveolar macrophages were noted in the lung 

lavage fluid of male rats exposed for 4 hours to 400 ppm hydrogen sulfide (Khan et al. 1991). This study 

also showed complete abolition of zymosan-induced stimulation of respiratory rates of pulmonary 

alveolar macrophages in animals exposed to 200 or 400 ppm. No changes were noted after exposure to 

50 ppm hydrogen sulfide. 

Histological changes were characterized in the lungs of male F-344 rats exposed to 83 or 439 ppm for 

4 hours (Lopez et al. 1988a). At the lower concentration, mild perivascular edema was found. At the 

higher concentration, numerous changes were observed including severe but transient pulmonary edema 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 61 

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and fibrocellular alveolitis in proximal alveoli, cytoplasmic blebs in the alveolar endothelium; increased 

numbers of mitotic figures in the bronchiolar epithelium, minor changes in the alveolar epithelium, and 

necrosis of the ciliated bronchiolar cells. Other studies found slight pulmonary congestion in male Wistar 

rats exposed to 75 ppm hydrogen sulfide for 1 hour (Kohno et al. 1991) and moderate-to-massive 

pulmonary edema in male F-344 rats exposed to 375 or 399 ppm for 4 hours (Prior et al. 1990). 

The effects of intermediate-duration exposures to hydrogen sulfide have been examined in rats, mice, and 

pigs. Respiratory effects were not observed in F-344 (CIIT 1983b) or Sprague-Dawley (CIIT 1983c) rats 

exposed to hydrogen sulfide at concentrations up to 80 ppm 6 hours/day, 5 days/week for 90 days. 

However, a re-examination of the histologic specimens from this study (Dorman et al. 2004) found 

significant increases in the incidence of olfactory neuron loss in Sprague-Dawley and F-344 rats exposed 

to 30 or 80 ppm and in male rats exposed to 80 ppm; the no-effect levels in these strains were 10 and 

30 ppm, respectively. In addition, increases in the incidence of bronchiolar epithelial hypertrophy and 

hyperplasia were observed in the female Sprague-Dawley rats exposed to 30 or 80 ppm hydrogen sulfide 

and in male Sprague-Dawley and F-344 rats exposed to 80 ppm. These findings are similar to those of 

Brenneman et al. (2000) who found significant increases in the incidence and severity of nasal lesions in 

male Sprague-Dawley rats exposed to hydrogen sulfide for 6 hours/day, 7 days/week for 10 weeks. The 

nasal lesions, which were limited to the olfactory mucosa, consisted of multifocal, bilaterally symmetrical 

olfactory neuron loss, and basal cell hyperplasia. The olfactory neuron loss and basal cell hyperplasia 

was found in most animals exposed to 30 or 80 ppm, but was not found in controls or rats exposed to 

10 ppm. At 30 ppm, the severity of the olfactory neuron loss and basal cell hyperplasia was graded as 

mild to moderate. At 80 ppm, the severity of the olfactory neuron loss was moderate to severe and the 

basal cell hyperplasia was scored as mild. 

Inflammation of the nasal mucosa described as minimal to mild rhinitis was observed in B6C3F1 mice 

exposed to hydrogen sulfide at 80 ppm for 6 hours/day, 5 days/week for 90 days (CIIT 1983a); these 

lesions were not observed at 30 ppm. A re-examination of the histological specimens from this study 

confirmed these results (Dorman et al. 2004) and also found significant increases in the incidence of 

olfactory neuron loss in the nasal olfactory epithelium of male and female mice exposed to 30 or 80 ppm, 

but not at 10 ppm. 

Three crossbred pigs of unspecified sex were continuously exposed to 0 or 8.5 ppm hydrogen sulfide in 

inhalation chambers for 17 days (Curtis et al. 1975). No significant changes in body weight gain and no 

histopathological changes in the respiratory tract (including turbinates, trachea, and lungs) were noted. 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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This study is limited by the number of animals used and because only one exposure concentration was 

used. 

In summary, short- and long-term studies in humans and animals provide strong evidence that the 

respiratory tract is a sensitive target of hydrogen sulfide toxicity. Studies in communities living near a 

source of hydrogen sulfide pollution have found increases in respiratory symptoms, particularly signs of 

nasal irritation, cough, and shortness of breath (Haahtela et al. 1992; Jaakkola et al. 1990; Legator et al. 

2001; Marttila et al. 1995; Partti-Pellinen et al. 1996; Schinasi et al. 2011), worsening of asthma 

symptoms (Campagna et al. 2004; Carlsen et al. 2012), and alterations in lung function (Kilburn 2012). 

Occupational exposure studies have found altered lung function and increased odds of obstructive lung 

disease among sewer workers with presumed high exposure (Richardson 1995) and increased prevalence 

of shortness of breath and wheezing without an effect on lung function among oil and gas workers with 

the highest exposure to hydrogen sulfide (Hessel et al. 1997). A major limitation of the community and 

occupational exposure studies is the lack of reliable hydrogen sulfide exposure data and concomitant 

exposure to other substances, including other sulfur compounds and particulate matter. Human 

experimental studies have not found alterations in lung function in healthy exercising subjects exposed to 

5 ppm for 16 or 30 minutes or 10 ppm for 15 minutes (Bhambhani and Singh 1991; Bhambhani et al. 

1994, 1996a). A decrease in airway resistance and conductance was observed in 20% of asthmatics 

exposed to 2 ppm for 10 minutes, although the change in the whole group was not significantly different 

from controls (Jappinen et al. 1990). In rats, a 3- or 4-hour exposure to ≥200 ppm resulted in necrosis and 

exfoliation of the nasal respiratory and olfactory epithelial cells (Brenneman et al. 2002; Lopez et al. 

1988b; Roberts et al. 2008); the NOAEL for these effects was 80 ppm (Brenneman et al. 2002). Exposure 

to ≥75 ppm for 1–4 hours resulted in pulmonary edema with increasing severity as exposure levels 

increased (Kohno et al. 1991; Lopez et al. 1988a; Prior et al. 1990). Repeated exposure to ≥30 ppm 

resulted in olfactory neuronal loss in the nasal cavity of rats and mice (Brenneman et al. 2000; CIIT 

1983a, 1983b, 1983c; Dorman et al. 2004); the NOAEL was 10 ppm. 

Carbonyl Sulfide. No studies were located regarding respiratory effects in humans after inhalation 

exposure to carbonyl sulfide. 

Only one study has examined the respiratory tract in animals following inhalation exposure to carbonyl 

sulfide. No morphological alterations were observed in the lungs of rabbits continuously exposed to 

54 ppm for 7 weeks (Kamstrup and Hugod 1979). 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 63 

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Cardiovascular Effects. 

Hydrogen Sulfide. Cardiovascular effects have been noted after acute exposures to high concentrations 

of hydrogen sulfide via inhalation (Arnold et al. 1985). Slight blood pressure increases were noted in 

several workers exposed to hydrogen sulfide in a pelt room, however, their electrocardiograms (EKGs) 

were normal (Audeau et al. 1985). In other instances of hydrogen sulfide poisoning that occurred after a 

short exposure to high concentrations, no changes in blood pressure were noted despite other cardiac 

irregularities (Ravizza et al. 1982). Hemodynamic instability was noted in one of two men who survived 

acute exposure to an unknown concentration of hydrogen sulfide and also swallowed large amounts of 

manure after entering a partially drained liquid manure pit (Osbern and Crapo 1981). Sinus tachycardia 

has been noted in men who completely recovered after exposure to hydrogen sulfide (Peters 1981; 

Ravizza et al. 1982). Supraventricular tachycardia and left bundle branch block were noted in a worker 

exposed to hydrogen sulfide generated from a sodium sulfide waste solution dumped onto acid waste 

material; the effects were temporary (Stine et al. 1976). Extreme tachycardia and hypotension were noted 

in a woman who attempted to clean a well with muriatic acid and was exposed to an unknown 

concentration of hydrogen sulfide gas; hypertension was noted in a man exposed during this same 

incident (Thoman 1969). 

EKGs taken on two workers about 2.5 hours after an acute exposure to hydrogen sulfide showed cardiac 

arrhythmias (Krekel 1964). The workers were exposed for <5 minutes after a spill of sodium sulfide that 

broke down to release hydrogen sulfide. In one individual, a negative P wave (also referred to as an 

inverted P wave) likely indicative of an ectopic atrial rhythm was noted; in the other individual, a 

continuous arrhythmia due to atrial flutter was found. EKGs for both men returned to normal within 

24 hours. 

No adverse cardiovascular effects were found when healthy male volunteers were exposed to hydrogen 

sulfide concentrations up to 5 ppm for >16 minutes after graded exercise performed to exhaustion 

(Bhambhani and Singh 1991). A study that examined the effects of inhalation of 5 ppm hydrogen sulfide 

on physiological parameters found no changes in heart rate, blood pressure, percent hemoglobin 

saturation, perceived exertion, or other parameters in healthy male and female volunteers during 

30 minutes of submaximal exercise (Bhambhani et al. 1994). A subsequent study examining the effects 

of inhaling 10 ppm hydrogen sulfide during two 30-minute sessions of submaximal exercise found no 

significant changes in cardiovascular responses under these conditions (Bhambhani et al. 1997). 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 64 

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In a retrospective epidemiologic study using hospital discharge data from 1981 to 1990, Bates et al. 

(1998) evaluated the risk of disease to known target organ systems of hydrogen sulfide toxicity in 

residents of Rotorua, a New Zealand city that uses geothermal energy for industrial and domestic heating 

purposes. A significant increase in incidence was found for diseases of the circulatory system (SIR=1.05; 

p=0.001) among Rotorua residents as compared to all other New Zealand residents. Although previous 

monitoring information from Rotorua in 1978 showed a median concentration of hydrogen sulfide of 

20 μg/m3

, with 35% of the measurements over 70 μg/m3 and 10% over 400 μg/m3 (Bates et al. 1997), the 

lack of monitoring information in the Bates et al. (1998) study precludes conclusions with regard to a 

causal relationship between circulatory system disease and hydrogen sulfide exposures. Using hospital 

discharge records for 1993–1996, Bates et al. (2002) attempted to examine exposure-related trends for 

cardiovascular disease among residents of Rotorua. Residents were divided into three exposure 

categories (low, medium, and high) based on surrogate exposure data. A statistically significant 

(p<0.001) trend for exposure-related increases in the incidence of circulatory system disease was 

observed. When the circulatory system disease category was further divided into minor disease 

categories, significant (p<0.01) exposure-related trends for cerebrovascular disease and diseases of 

arteries, arterioles, and capillaries were found. However, no significant increases in SIRs were found for 

the cerebrovascular disease category. For artery, arteriole, and capillary disease category, the SIRs were 

significantly elevated for the medium (SIR=1.58, 95% confidence level of 1.17–2.08) and high 

(SIR=1.66, 95% CI of 1.30–2.09) exposure groups. The lack of exposure data, the assumption that 

hydrogen sulfide exposure only occurred at home, and the lack of control for potential confounding 

factors such as smoking and socioeconomic status limit the interpretation of these data. 

Studies in experimental animals have reported EKG alterations (e.g., cardiac arrhythmia) following acuteduration exposure to 72–75 ppm for 1.5 hours or less (Kohno et al. 1991; Kosmider et al. 1967); however, 

the lack of statistical analysis precludes interpretation of these studies. Alterations in heart rate have also 

been reported. A decrease in heart rate (10–27% of controls) was observed in rats exposed to 75 ppm for 

60 minutes (Kohno et al. 1991). In contrast, another study found an increase in heart rates in rats exposed 

to 100–200 ppm for 1 hour (Higuchi and Fukamachi 1977). The differences may be reflective of the 

different exposure levels. Significant increases in serum cardiac enzyme levels (aspartate 

aminotransferase [AST], creatinine kinase, lactate dehydrogenase) and cardiac troponin I activity was 

observed in rats exposed to 300 ppm hydrogen sulfide for 60 minutes (Wu et al. 2011). 

Data on the cardiotoxicity of hydrogen sulfide following longer-term exposure is limited to a study by 

CIIT (1983a, 1983b, 1983c). This study found no treatment-related histopathological alterations in the 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 65 

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cardiovascular system of F-344 or Sprague-Dawley rats or B6C3F1 mice exposed via inhalation to timeweighted-average concentrations of 10, 30, or 80 ppm hydrogen sulfide for 6 hours/day, 5 days/week for 

90 days (CIIT 1983a, 1983b, 1983c). 

Carbonyl Sulfide. No studies were located regarding cardiovascular effects in humans after inhalation 

exposure to carbonyl sulfide. 

No morphological alterations were observed in the coronary arteries, aortic arch, descending thoracic 

aorta, or pulmonary arteries (Hugod and Astrup 1980; Kamstrup and Hugod 1979) and no myocardial 

ultrastructural changes (Hugod 1981) were found in rabbits continuously exposed to 54 ppm carbonyl 

sulfide for 7 weeks. 

Gastrointestinal Effects. 

Hydrogen Sulfide. Nausea and vomiting have been noted in several cases of human inhalational 

hydrogen sulfide poisoning (Allyn 1931; Audeau et al. 1985; Deng and Chang 1987; Krekel 1964; 

Osbern and Crapo 1981; Thoman 1969). 

In two evaluations of the acute health effects associated with communities experiencing episodes of high 

emissions containing hydrogen sulfide, significant increases in nausea were reported (Haahtela et al. 

1992; Marttila et al. 1995). In the first study, increased emissions from a pulp mill resulted in increased 

concentrations of hydrogen sulfide over 2 days. The highest 4-hour concentration of hydrogen sulfide 

was 135 μg/m3 (96.4 ppb) and the 24-hour averages for the 2 days were 35 and 43 μg/m3 (25 and 31 ppb). 

Following the high exposure, and then after a low exposure period (hydrogen sulfide level of 0.1 to 

3.5 μg/m3 [0.07–2.5 ppb] for 4 hours), community responses were evaluated with a questionnaire. It was 

noted that the sulfur dioxide levels were the same at both the higher and lower hydrogen sulfide exposure 

levels. A significant increase in the incidence of reported nausea was found during the high exposure 

period (23%) as compared to the incidence during the low exposure period (5%). In the second study, 

Marttila et al. (1995) compared community responses using six consecutive questionnaires after three 

predefined levels of exposure. The three exposure levels were expressed as μg/m3 of TRS as a way to 

summarize the complex pollution mixture of hydrogen sulfide, methyl mercaptan, and methylsulfides 

produced by pulp mills using the sulfate pulping method. The three categories of exposure were low 

(daily mean of TRS <10 μg/m3

), medium (10–30 μg/m3), and high exposure (>30 μg/m3). An increase in 

reports of nausea was significant only with the highest level of exposure. Interpretation of these results is 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 66 

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complicated by the presence of multiple sulfur compounds as well as other air pollutants. Earlier work 

indicated that hydrogen sulfide represented two-thirds of the TRS (Marttila et al. 1994a). Concurrent 

measurements of sulfur dioxide, total suspended particles, and nitrogen oxides for the periods covered by 

each of the questionnaires indicated that only sulfur dioxide appeared to co-vary with TRS. 

No treatment-related histopathological changes were detected in the gastrointestinal tract of F-344 or 

Sprague-Dawley rats or B6C3F1 mice exposed via inhalation to TWA concentrations of 10, 30, or 80 ppm 

hydrogen sulfide 6 hours/day, 5 days/week for 90 days (CIIT 1983a, 1983b, 1983c). No gastrointestinal 

effects were reported in crossbred pigs exposed to 8.5 ppm hydrogen sulfide for 24 hours/day for 17 days 

(Curtis et al. 1975). 

Carbonyl Sulfide. No studies were located regarding gastrointestinal effects in humans or animals after 

inhalation exposure to carbonyl sulfide. 

Hematological Effects. 

Hydrogen Sulfide. The cyanosis that has been reported in a number of cases of accidental exposure to 

hydrogen sulfide is believed to result from respiratory distress (Arnold et al. 1985; Burnett et al. 1977; 

Deng and Chang 1987; Peters 1981; Ravizza et al. 1982; Stine et al. 1976; Tvedt et al. 1991a, 1991b). 

Complete blood counts were within normal limits in four individuals overcome by unknown concentrations of hydrogen sulfide gas in a pelt room (Audeau et al. 1985). Percent hemoglobin saturation was 

unchanged by inhalation of either 5 ppm hydrogen sulfide by volunteers during 30-minutes of 

submaximal exercise (Bhambhani et al. 1994), or 10 ppm hydrogen sulfide during two 30-minute sessions 

of submaximal exercise (Bhambhani et al. 1997). 

Workers who were sometimes exposed to airborne concentrations of >20 ppm hydrogen sulfide did not 

have any changes in hematological parameters (Ahlborg 1951). Pulp industry workers (n=17) exposed to 

8-hour TWA concentrations of 0.05–5.2 ppm hydrogen sulfide had no signs of clinical anemia (Tenhunen 

et al. 1983). Jappinen and Tenhunen (1990) examined blood sulfide concentration and changes in heme 

metabolism at 2 hours, 1 week, and 1 month post-hydrogen sulfide poisoning in six cases of occupational 

exposure. Decreased delta-aminolevulinic acid synthase activity and erythrocyte protoporphyrin 

concentration were noted at the 2-hour and 1-week time periods, but not to the level of statistical 

significance, and there was no change in heme synthase activity. 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 67 

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No treatment-related changes in hematological parameters were noted in F-344 or Sprague-Dawley rats or 

B6C3F1 mice exposed by inhalation to TWA concentrations of 10, 30, or 80 ppm of hydrogen sulfide 

6 hours/day, 5 days/week for 90 days (CIIT 1983a, 1983b, 1983c). Laug and Draize (1942) reported 

increased sulfhemoglobin levels in rabbits exposed for at least 20 minutes to unspecified levels of 

hydrogen sulfide. 

Carbonyl Sulfide. One study examined the potential of carbonyl sulfide to induce hematological 

alterations. In rats exposed to carbonyl sulfide for 11 days, significant increases in methemoglobin levels 

were observed at ≥151 ppm; however, the magnitude of the methemoglobin levels in treated animals 

(1.3–2.3% compared to 0.8–1.0% in controls) was low and was not considered toxicologically relevant. 

Decreases in erythrocyte count, hematocrit, mean corpuscular volume, mean corpuscular hemoglobin, and 

mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration were observed in female rats exposed to 151 or 253 ppm, but 

were not observed at 453 ppm or in males. The lack of concentration-response and the finding in only 

one sex suggest that these alterations may not be related to carbonyl sulfide exposure. 

Musculoskeletal Effects. 

Hydrogen Sulfide. In a series of reports characterizing the responses of healthy volunteers to low level, 

short-term exposures to hydrogen sulfide, Bhambhani and his colleagues (Bhambhani and Singh 1991; 

Bhambhani et al. 1994, 1996a, 1996b, 1997) concluded that exposures to 5 or 10 ppm hydrogen sulfide 

via oral inhalation resulted in increases in blood lactate concentrations and decreases in muscle citrate 

synthase activity that was indicative of an inhibition of the aerobic capacity of exercising muscle. Men 

appeared to be more sensitive to this effect, showing a small response at 5 ppm where women did not 

show an effect until the 10 ppm level (Bhambhani et al. 1996b, 1997). 

No treatment-related histopathological changes were detected in the skeletal muscle, bone marrow, or 

bone of F-344 or Sprague-Dawley rats or B6C3F1 mice exposed to TWA concentrations of 10, 30, or 

80 ppm hydrogen sulfide for 6 hours/day, 5 days/week for 90 days (CIIT 1983a, 1983b, 1983c). 

Carbonyl Sulfide. No studies were located regarding musculoskeletal effects in humans or animals after 

inhalation exposure to carbonyl sulfide. 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 68 

3. HEALTH EFFECTS 

Hepatic Effects. 

Hydrogen Sulfide. A retrospective study of 221 gas and oil workers exposed to hydrogen sulfide 

measured unspecified liver enzyme activity in about 30% of the subjects exposed by inhalation to 

hydrogen sulfide (Burnett et al. 1977). The investigators noted that abnormalities were detected in 

several subjects; no additional information was provided. 

No changes in serum protein, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), serum glutamic-oxaloacetic transaminase 

(SGOT; also referred to as aspartate aminotransferase [AST]), or alkaline phosphatase activity were noted 

in Sprague-Dawley rat dams exposed to 20, 50, or 75 ppm of hydrogen sulfide for 7 hours/day from 

gestation day 1 through postnatal day 21 (Hayden et al. 1990a). Maternal liver cholesterol levels were 

increased in Sprague-Dawley dams exposed to 75 ppm, but not 50 ppm, for 7 hours/day from gestation 

day 6 to postpartum day 21 (Hayden et al. 1990b). 

No treatment-related histopathological changes were detected in the livers of F-344 or Sprague-Dawley 

rats or B6C3F1 mice exposed to TWA concentrations of 10, 30, or 80 ppm of hydrogen sulfide 

6 hours/day, 5 days/week for 90 days (CIIT 1983a, 1983b, 1983c). No gross or histopathological lesions 

were found in the livers of crossbred pigs exposed to 8.5 ppm of hydrogen sulfide continuously for 

17 days (Curtis et al. 1975). 

Carbonyl Sulfide. No studies were located regarding hepatic effects in humans or animals after 

inhalation exposure to carbonyl sulfide. 

Renal Effects. 

Hydrogen Sulfide. Blood urea nitrogen and serum electrolyte levels were within the normal range in 

several individuals overcome by unknown concentrations of hydrogen sulfide gas in a pelt room (Audeau 

et al. 1985). One of these four patients had protein and blood in the urine initially, which was not 

detected upon later testing. Albumin and some granular casts were noted in the urine in another patient, 

but these findings were transient (Audeau et al. 1985). 

F-344 and Sprague-Dawley rats as well as B6C3F1 mice were exposed to TWA concentrations of 10, 30, 

or 80 ppm of hydrogen sulfide for 6 hours/day, 5 days/week for 90 days (CIIT 1983a, 1983b, 1983c). No 

treatment-related histopathological changes were detected in the kidneys of these animals and urinalysis 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 69 

3. HEALTH EFFECTS 

findings were negative, suggesting no renal effects due to hydrogen sulfide exposure. No gross or 

histopathological lesions were found in the kidneys of crossbred pigs exposed to 8.5 ppm of hydrogen 

sulfide continuously for 17 days (Curtis et al. 1975). 

Carbonyl Sulfide. No studies were located regarding renal effects in humans or animals after inhalation 

exposure to carbonyl sulfide. 

Endocrine Effects. 

Hydrogen Sulfide. No studies were located regarding endocrine effects in humans after inhalation 

exposure to hydrogen sulfide. 

No treatment-related histopathological changes were detected in the pituitary, adrenal, thyroid, or 

parathyroid glands of F-344 or Sprague-Dawley rats or B6C3F1 mice exposed to TWA concentrations of 

10, 30, or 80 ppm hydrogen sulfide 6 hours/day, 5 days/week for 90 days (CIIT 1983a, 1983b, 1983c). 

Carbonyl Sulfide. No studies were located regarding endocrine effects in humans or animals after 

inhalation exposure to carbonyl sulfide. 

Dermal Effects. 

Hydrogen Sulfide. Six men lost consciousness after acute hydrogen sulfide exposure; one man with 

probable exposure to 8–16 ppm had peeling facial skin (Tvedt et al. 1991a, 1991b). 

No treatment-related histopathological changes were detected in the skin of F-344 or Sprague-Dawley 

rats or B6C3F1 mice exposed to TWA concentrations of 10, 30, or 80 ppm hydrogen sulfide for 

6 hours/day, 5 days/week for 90 days (CIIT 1983a, 1983b, 1983c). Slate-grey skin discoloration (which 

may have been related to increased sulfhemoglobin levels) and erythema were noted in rabbits exposed to 

unspecified concentrations of hydrogen sulfide for 2 hours (Laug and Draize 1942). 

Carbonyl Sulfide. No studies were located regarding dermal effects in humans or animals after inhalation 

exposure to carbonyl sulfide. 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 70 

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Ocular Effects. 

Hydrogen Sulfide. Ocular effects reported after inhalation exposure are believed to have resulted from 

direct eye contact with hydrogen sulfide gas. Hydrogen sulfide gas is an eye irritant. Keratoconjunctivitis (sometimes with subsequent infection), punctate corneal erosion, blepharospasm, lacrimation, 

and photophobia have developed in individuals exposed to brief high-level concentrations of hydrogen 

sulfide gas (Ahlborg 1951; Luck and Kaye 1989). Hemorrhagic keratoconjunctivitis and subconjunctival 

hemorrhage were reported in cases of near-lethal poisoning to unknown concentrations of hydrogen 

sulfide (Deng and Chang 1987; Stine et al. 1976). A retrospective study of 250 Canadian workers who 

submitted workers' compensation claims for hydrogen sulfide exposure found that 18% had developed 

conjunctivitis, which persisted for several days in some cases (Arnold et al. 1985). Stinging of the eyes 

has been reported in acute occupational hydrogen sulfide poisoning (Audeau et al. 1985). None of these 

reports of ocular exposure suggested that permanent eye effects may occur (Ahlborg 1951; Arnold et al. 

1985; Audeau et al. 1985; Deng and Chang 1987; Luck and Kaye 1989; Stine et al. 1976). People 

exposed to hydrogen sulfide, methyl mercaptan, and methyl sulfides while living in a community around 

a paper mill reported eye irritation 12 times more often than people without exposure (Jaakkola et al. 

1990). These effects were observed at mean annual hydrogen sulfide exposures estimated at 6 μg/m3 

(4.3 ppb). However, the ocular symptoms that were reported may have been due to exposure to peak 

concentrations of hydrogen sulfide (daily peaks as high as 100 μg/m3

; 70 ppb), and not annual mean 

concentrations. The ocular effects may have also been due to co-exposure to methyl mercaptan and 

methyl sulfides. Methyl mercaptan is also an eye irritant and it was also present at an annual mean 

concentration of 2–5 μg/m3 with the highest daily average concentration being 50 μg/m3 (Jaakkola et al. 

1990). 

In a retrospective epidemiologic study using hospital discharge data from 1981 to 1990, Bates et al. 

(1998) evaluated the risk of disease to known target organ systems of hydrogen sulfide toxicity in 

residents of Rotorua, a New Zealand city that uses geothermal energy for industrial and domestic heating 

purposes. No information on hydrogen sulfide levels was presented in this report, but the authors indicate 

concerns that exposures to hydrogen sulfide and/or mercury from geothermal sources could have health 

impacts. In their previous work, it was indicated that the most reliable monitoring information for 

hydrogen sulfide in the area came from a monitoring exercise in 1978, which found a median 

concentration of hydrogen sulfide of 20 μg/m3

, with 35% of the measurements >70 μg/m3 and 10% 

>400 μg/m3 (Bates et al. 1997). On the basis of hospital discharge data, significant increases in incidence 

were found for diseases of the nervous system and sense organs (SIR=1.11; p<0.001) among Rotorua 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 71 

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residents as compared to the rest of New Zealand. When incidence rates were examined for minor 

disease groupings within this group of nervous system and sense organ diseases, significantly increased 

risks were seen for other disorders of the eye and adnexa (SIR=1.12; p<0.001). At the level of individual 

diseases, statistically significant incidence ratios were found for cataract (SIR=1.26; p<0.001), disorders 

of the conjunctiva (SIR=2.09; p<0.001), and disorders of the orbit (SIR=1.69; p=0.005). In a subsequent 

study by this group in which the Rotorua residents were divided into three groups based on expected 

exposure levels, there was an increase in the incidence of disorders of the eye and adnexa (SIR=1.38; 

95% CIs of 1.16–1.64) in the high exposure group when compared to the incidence in the low exposure 

group (Bates et al. 2002). The incidence in the medium exposure group was not significantly higher than 

the low exposure group. The effect of hydrogen sulfide on the eye is of considerable importance because 

ocular effects occur at concentrations that provide no other observable systemic effect (NIOSH 1977a). 

As noted previously, interpretation of the results of the Bates et al. (1997, 2002) studies is limited by the 

lack of concurrent monitoring data and examination of potential exposure to other compounds. 

Ocular irritation has also been noted after animals were exposed to hydrogen sulfide. Epiphora was noted 

in F-344 rats exposed to 400 ppm of hydrogen sulfide for 4 hours (Lopez et al. 1988b); effects were not 

observed at 200 ppm. Eye irritation was noted in guinea pigs exposed to 20 ppm of hydrogen sulfide 

1 hour/day for 20 days (Haider et al. 1980). No ocular lesions were found upon microscopic examination 

of the eyes of crossbred pigs exposed to 8.5 ppm of hydrogen sulfide 24 hours/day for 17 days (Curtis et 

al. 1975). 

No treatment-related histopathological changes were detected in the eyes of F-344 or Sprague-Dawley 

rats or B6C3F1 mice exposed to TWA concentrations of 10, 30, or 80 ppm of hydrogen sulfide for 

6 hours/day, 5 days/week for 90 days (CIIT 1983a, 1983b, 1983c). 

Carbonyl Sulfide. No studies were located regarding ocular effects in humans or animals after inhalation 

exposure to carbonyl sulfide. 

Body Weight Effects. 

Hydrogen Sulfide. No studies were located regarding body weight effects in humans after inhalation 

exposure to hydrogen sulfide. 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 72 

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Pregnant Sprague-Dawley rats exposed to 100 or 150 ppm hydrogen sulfide on gestation days 6– 

20 showed decreased body weight gains that reached significance at the higher dose. Absolute weight 

gain (i.e., minus the gravid uterine weight) was significantly depressed at both of these doses. Exposure 

at 50 ppm hydrogen sulfide had no effect on body weight gain or on absolute weight gain (Saillenfait al. 

1989). No effects on body weight were noted in Sprague-Dawley rats exposed to 50 ppm of hydrogen 

sulfide 5 days/week for 25 weeks (Gagnaire et al. 1986). No treatment-related body weight changes were 

noted in F-344 rats exposed to TWA airborne concentrations of 10, 30, or 80 ppm of hydrogen sulfide 

6 hours/day, 5 days/week for 90 days (CIIT 1983b). However, when Sprague-Dawley rats were exposed 

on the same regimen, females at 80 ppm showed a significant (10%) decrease in body weight at the end of 

the study compared to controls, which was not evident at 30 ppm (CIIT 1983c). At 80 ppm, the body 

weight of males was significantly less (8%) than controls during weeks 1–3, but the final body weight 

differences were not statistically significant (CIIT 1983c). Similarly, B6C3F1 mice of both sexes exposed 

to TWA concentrations of 80 ppm hydrogen sulfide 6 hours/day, 5 days/week for 90 days showed 

decreases in body weight of 7–14% compared to controls; these changes were not observed at 30 ppm 

(CIIT 1983a). No body weight changes were found in crossbred pigs exposed to 8.5 ppm hydrogen 

sulfide continuously for 17 days (Curtis et al. 1975). 

Carbonyl Sulfide. No studies were located regarding body weight effects in humans after inhalation 

exposure to carbonyl sulfide. 

No alterations in body weight were observed in rats exposed to 453 ppm carbonyl sulfide for 11 exposure 

days (Monsanto 1985b) or 182 ppm for 13 weeks (Monsanto 1987). 

Metabolic Effects. 

Hydrogen Sulfide. Severe metabolic acidosis developed in a worker exposed to hydrogen sulfide



generated from a sodium sulfide waste solution dumped onto acid waste material (Stine et al. 1976). 

Blood lactate concentrations were significantly increased (65%) compared to controls during exercise in



men exposed to 5 ppm hydrogen sulfide via oral inhalation for >16 minutes (Bhambhani and Singh 1991),



but not at 2 ppm. Additional studies by the same group (Bhambhani et al. 1994, 1996b) exposed both 

men and women to 5 ppm hydrogen sulfide during 30 minutes of exercise and failed to observe 

significant increases in lactate concentrations, but did see a decrease in muscle citrate synthase in men, 

suggesting that aerobic metabolism was being compromised at this level of exposure.


 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 73 

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In a subsequent study, Bhambhani et al. (1997) observed significant increases in blood lactate 

concentrations in male and female volunteers exposed to 10 ppm hydrogen sulfide; no significant changes 

in the activities of muscle lactate dehydrogenase, citrate synthase, or cytochrome oxidase were observed. 

In Sprague-Dawley rat dams exposed to 20, 50, or 75 ppm of hydrogen sulfide for 7 hours/day from 

gestation day 1 through postnatal day 21, blood glucose levels were increased about 50% at all exposure 

concentrations (Hayden et al. 1990a). 

Carbonyl Sulfide. No studies were located regarding metabolic effects in humans after inhalation 

exposure to carbonyl sulfide. 

Significant increases in serum cholesterol levels were observed in rabbits continuously exposed to 54 ppm 

carbonyl sulfide for 7 weeks (Kamstrup and Hugod 1979). However, the alterations were only observed 

at weeks 1, 6, and 7 and corresponded to a downward fluctuation in control levels. An increase in free 

cholesterol levels in the media layer of the aorta (but not in the intima or internal aspect of the media 

layer) was also observed; the investigators suggested that this increase was probably due to the increase in 

serum cholesterol levels. 

3.2.1.3 Immunological and Lymphoreticular Effects 

Hydrogen Sulfide. No studies were located regarding immunological and lymphoreticular effects in 

humans after inhalation exposure to hydrogen sulfide. 

No treatment-related histopathological changes were found in the spleen or lymph nodes of F-344 or 

Sprague-Dawley rats or B6C3F1 mice exposed to TWA concentrations of 10, 30, or 80 ppm of hydrogen 

sulfide 6 hours/day, 5 days/week for 90 days (CIIT 1983a, 1983b, 1983c). Pulmonary alveolar 

macrophage function was studied using lavage fluid from F-344 rats exposed for 4 hours to 50, 200, or 

400 ppm hydrogen sulfide (Khan et al. 1991). Although the number of pulmonary alveolar macrophage 

cells was not influenced by hydrogen sulfide exposure, the number of viable cells was significantly 

decreased at 400 ppm. When the pulmonary alveolar macrophage cells were treated with Zymosan to 

stimulate respiration rates, it was found that there was no stimulation of respiration in cells from animals 

exposed to 200 or 400 ppm; these rates were significantly different from controls and were approximately 

equal to basal cell levels (Khan et al. 1991). 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 74 

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The highest NOAEL values and all reliable LOAEL values for immunological effects in rats and mice 

exposed to hydrogen sulfide in acute- and intermediate-duration studies are recorded in Table 3-1 and 

plotted in Figure 3-1. 

Carbonyl Sulfide. No studies were located regarding immunological and lymphoreticular effects in 

humans or animals after inhalation exposure to carbonyl sulfide. 

3.2.1.4 Neurological Effects 

Hydrogen Sulfide. Acute human exposure to hydrogen sulfide can result in nausea, headaches, delirium, 

disturbed equilibrium, poor memory, neurobehavioral changes, olfactory paralysis, loss of consciousness, 

tremors, and convulsions. Fatigue, poor memory, dizziness, and irritability have been observed in 

workers chronically exposed to hydrogen sulfide (Beauchamp et al. 1984); however, it is not known if 

these effects are the result of chronic exposure or due to recurring acute exposures. 

Available information on the neurotoxic effects of acute exposures to high levels of hydrogen sulfide in 

humans comes primarily from case reports. In most instances, exposure concentrations were either 

unknown or estimated. In most cases, the exact exposure duration was not known, but estimated 

durations ranged from several minutes to an hour. The most commonly reported effect found in 

individuals exposed to high concentrations is rapid unconsciousness followed by apparent recovery (with 

prompt removal from exposure), colloquially referred to as knockdown (Deng and Chang 1987; Krekel 

1964; McDonald and McIntosh 1951; Milby 1962; Spolyar 1951). Other described neurological effects 

in the case reports include disturbed equilibrium, nausea, headache, poor memory, insomnia, irritability, 

delirium, severe vertigo, unusual sweating, neuropsychological symptoms, convulsions, and tremors 

(Arnold et al. 1985; Krekel 1964). While deaths were often noted, there were cases in which individuals 

survived and had complete neurological recovery (Deng and Chang 1987; Krekel 1964; Osbern and 

Crapo 1981; Ravizza et al. 1982). In a study of the possible effects of exposure to low concentrations of 

hydrogen sulfide, 3/10 asthmatic volunteers complained of headache after being exposed in a sealed 

chamber to 2 ppm hydrogen sulfide for 30 minutes (Jappinen et al. 1990). 

A few case reports have described permanent or persistent neurological effects in humans following acute 

inhalation exposure to high concentrations of hydrogen sulfide. One patient developed symptoms of 

frontal headaches, irritability, poor concentration ability and attention span, and deficits of cortical 

function tests (including verbal abstraction, attention, and short-term retention) 1 month after accidental 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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exposure to unspecified concentrations of hydrogen sulfide (Stine et al. 1976). All effects except 

headaches resolved by 2 months after the accident. A 5–10-year follow-up re-examination of several 

individuals who became unconscious after exposure to unspecified concentrations of hydrogen sulfide 

revealed permanent neurological symptoms (Tvedt et al. 1991a, 1991b) including vision and memory 

impairment; rigid movements; slight tremor; ataxia; psychosis; abnormal learning, retention, and motor 

function; and slight cerebral atrophy. The probable exposure concentration in one of the patients may 

have exceeded 200 ppm (as measured 2.5 hours after exposure). Divergent reports of the risk of 

permanent neurological damage due to hydrogen sulfide may result from lack of follow-up after hospital 

discharge (Tvedt et al. 1991b). Permanent neurologic damage including effects on balance, vibration 

sense, and impaired verbal and visual recall were observed in one man exposed to a very high 

concentration (14,000 ppm) of hydrogen sulfide (Kilburn 1993). In another case report, a worker who 

suffered “knockdown” and presented in a coma, remained in a coma through standard treatment (i.e., 

sodium nitrite), underwent several treatments with hyperbaric oxygen, and became responsive to simple 

commands by day 5. However, at the time of discharge, an extensive head injury assessment found 

effects on speech, attention span, insight, and ability to communicate, as well as a marked impact on 

visual memory and the ability to acquire, retain, and recall new information. These effects had not 

resolved by 12 and 18 months after exposure (Snyder et al. 1995). In a somewhat similar scenario, 

Schneider et al. (1998) describe a case in which another worker lost consciousness when he descended 

into a 27-foot pit that was part of a sewer construction project. He was overcome by hydrogen sulfide 

fumes (concentration not specified), fell from a ladder from an unspecified height, and was subsequently 

removed in a coma and transported to a local trauma center. At the emergency room (and potentially at 

the site), the patient experienced seizure activity. A body computed tomography (CT) scan showed 

pulmonary edema; no abnormalities were noted in the head CT scan. The patient was transferred to a 

hyperbaric medicine unit and started on hyperbaric oxygen treatments (starting approximately 10 hours 

post-episode). Five days later, he recovered consciousness, and by 7 days, his status had improved 

enough to discontinue hyperbaric oxygen treatments. He was able to feed himself and move with 

assistance, but had impaired language, memory, attention, and appeared agitated and restless. Over the 

course of the next 4 years, the patient was evaluated on a variety of occasions. He continued to show a 

constellation of deficits (even 4 years later) including problems with general cognitive ability, motor 

function, and impaired performance on tests of cognitive function. Some of these symptoms appeared to 

be alleviated through a combined treatment with fairly high doses of Ritalin and Cyclert drugs that 

enhance dopaminergic functioning. 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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In a case control study of 16 subjects who had been exposed for minutes, hours, or years to hydrogen 

sulfide, Kilburn (1997) found evidence of permanent neurobehavior impairment in exposed individuals 

when compared to 353 controls matched for sex, age, and years of education. A large battery of tests was 

used to evaluate these individuals, including a detailed self-administered questionnaire, complete physical 

and clinical screening neurologic examinations, as well as a series of neurophysiologic and 

neuropsychologic tests. Among those who had chronic low-dose exposure, the most sensitive tests were 

those evaluating balance, simple reaction time, left visual field, and verbal recall. The group exposed to 

hydrogen sulfide for hours showed additional defects (including impacts on a variety of 

neuropsychological tests) although remote memory remained intact. The group that experienced 

momentary “knockdown” exposure had an even larger suite of deficit in cognitive function, leading the 

study author to conclude that “...brief high doses were devastating, whereas protracted low doses showed 

effects on the more sensitive tests.” 

A 20-month-old child was exposed for nearly 1 year to >0.6 ppm hydrogen sulfide and other emitted 

chemicals from a coal mine (Gaitonde et al. 1987). Symptoms included ataxia, choreoathetosis, dystonia, 

and inability to stand. A CT scan of the brain showed bilateral areas of low density in the region of both 

basal ganglia and surrounding white matter. Neurophysiological investigations of electroencephalography, visual evoked responses, brain stem evoked responses, and peripheral nerve conduction studies 

were within normal limits. The child's condition improved spontaneously, shortly after hospital 

admission. After 10 weeks, ataxia had resolved and the choreoathetoid movements were reduced. A 

repeat brain scan showed complete resolution of abnormalities. The relationship of these complaints to 

low-level hydrogen sulfide exposure is unclear. 

The acute toxicity of low levels of hydrogen sulfide was examined by Fiedler et al. (2008). In healthy 

young adults, exposure to 0.5 or 5 ppm hydrogen sulfide for 2 hours did not result in decrements in visual 

acuity or visual contrast sensitivity, cognitive tests, or postural sway. A decrease in performance on an 

auditory verbal learning test was observed as the duration increased, particularly in subjects exposed to 

0.05 or 0.5 ppm, relative to the 5 ppm group; however, there was no relationship between exposure 

concentration and performance. The subjects reported an increase in anxiety during exposure to 5 ppm, 

which was related to odor irritation. 

Neurological effects resulting from chronic-duration exposure to hydrogen sulfide in the shale industry 

have been reported (Ahlborg 1951). Symptoms observed in workers exposed to daily concentrations of 

hydrogen sulfide that often exceeded 20 ppm included fatigue, loss of appetite, headache, irritability, poor 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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memory, and dizziness. The frequency of fatigue increased with length of employment and the amount of 

hydrogen sulfide exposure. 

A study of sewer workers (Farahat and Kishk 2010) also reported a significant increase in self-reported 

memory defects and lack of concentration; the mean hydrogen sulfide concentration inside of manhole 

openings was 9.4 ppm (range of 8.8–10.5 ppm). In function tests, significant alterations were observed in 

the test of auditory event-related potentials; simple reaction time; and figure, visual, verbal, and logical 

memory tests. However, no significant associations between performance on neurophysiological or 

neuropsychological tests and urinary thiosulfate levels (biomarker for hydrogen sulfide exposure) were 

found. The study did not specify when during the workshift the workers were tested; thus, it is not known 

whether the study evaluated acute or chronic neurotoxicity. 

In the South Karelia air pollution study (discussed in more detail under respiratory effects) all of the 

reports found increases in the incidence of headaches or migraines in polluted communities when 

compared to nonpolluted communities (Jaakkola et al. 1990; Marttila et al. 1994b, 1995; Partti-Pellinen et 

al. 1996); however, only in the most recent study did this finding achieve statistical significance. Using a 

cross-sectional, self-administered questionnaire, this report (Partti-Pellinen et al. 1996) evaluated the 

increased risk of headache or migraine in adults in a slightly polluted and a reference community. In the 

polluted community, the mean annual TRS concentrations were 2–3 μg/m3

, the 24-hour concentrations 

varied between 0 and 56 μg/m3

, and the maximum 1-hour concentration was 155 μg/m3; there was no 

TRS detected in the reference community. In the polluted community, the sulfur dioxide annual mean 

concentration was 1 μg/m3

, the 24-hour concentrations varied between 0 and 24 μg/m3 and the maximum 

1-hour concentration was 152 μg/m3

. In the reference community, the mean sulfur dioxide level was 

1 μg/m3 and the maximum 1-hour concentration was 30 μg/m3

. The residents of the polluted community 

showed a significantly increased risk of headache both during the previous 4-week period (OR=1.83; 95% 

CI=1.06–3.15) and the preceding 12 months (OR=1.70; 95% CI=1.01–2.64), when compared to the 

residents of the reference community (even after adjusting for differences in age, sex, smoking, history of 

allergic diseases, education, and marital status between the two communities). 

In a retrospective epidemiologic study using hospital discharge data from 1981 to 1990, Bates et al. 

(1998) evaluated the risk of disease to known target organ systems of hydrogen sulfide toxicity in 

residents of Rotorua, a New Zealand city that uses geothermal energy for industrial and domestic heating 

purposes. Although no information on hydrogen sulfide levels was presented in this report, the authors’ 

previous work indicated that a monitoring exercise in Rotorua in 1978 found a 3-month median 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 78 

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concentration of hydrogen sulfide of 20 μg/m3, with 35% of the measurements >70 μg/m3 and 10% 

>400 μg/m3

; additionally, elevated concentrations of mercury had previously been found in the hair of 

residents (Bates et al. 1997). Significant increases in incidence were found for diseases of the nervous 

system and sense organs (SIR=1.11; p<0.001) among Rotorua residents as compared to the rest of New 

Zealand residents. When the data were stratified by sex and ethnicity, the increased risks remained 

significant for all but non-Māori men. As noted previously, the percentage of Rotorua residents of Māori 

ethnicity is significantly higher than the rest of New Zealand. When incidence rates were examined for 

minor disease groupings within nervous system diseases, significantly increased risks were seen for other 

disorders of the central nervous system (SIR=1.22; p<0.001) and disorders of the peripheral nervous 

system (SIR=1.35; p<0.001). At the level of individual diseases, statistically significant incidence ratios 

were found for infant cerebral palsy (SIR=1.42; p=0.02), migraine (SIR=1.40; p=0.002), other conditions 

of the brain (SIR=2.50; p<0.001), mononeuritis of the upper limbs and mononeuritis multiplex 

(SIR=1.47; p<0.001), and mononeuritis of the lower limbs (SIR=2.06; p<0.001). A follow-up study of 

this population found a significant exposure-related trend (p<0.001) for increasing incidence of diseases 

of the nervous system and sense organs (Bates et al. 2002). In this study, the hospital discharge records 

were used to obtain disease incidence data; additionally, the affected individuals were divided into three 

exposure groups (low, medium, and high) based on their current residence. Actual exposure levels were 

not monitored; a surrogate for exposure was used. When the nervous system disease incidence was 

further divided into subcategories, significant trends (p<0.001) were found for other disorders of the 

central nervous system, disorders of the eye and adnexa, and disorders of the ear and mastoid process. 

The SIRs (95% CI) were significantly elevated in all groups for disorders of the eye and adnexa 

(1.47 [1.33–1.63], 1.57 [1.30–1.89], and 2.27 [1.97–2.61] for the low, medium, and high exposure groups, 

respectively). In the high exposure group, the SIRs were also elevated for other disorders of the central 

nervous system (2.59 [1.91–3.44]), disorders of the peripheral nervous system (2.27 [1.97–2.61]), and 

disorders of the ear and mastoid process (2.00 [1.65–2.40]). The lack of exposure data, the assumption 

that hydrogen sulfide exposure only occurred at home, the assumption that current exposure also 

represented historical exposure, the potential exposure to other compounds, and the lack of control for 

confounding variables such as smoking and socioeconomic status limit the interpretation of these data. A 

follow-up study of 1,637 adult Rotorua residents found no significant associations between hydrogen 

sulfide exposure and the results of tests of attention, psychomotor speed, memory, fine motor function, or 

mood (Reed et al. 2014). The median and mean hydrogen sulfide concentrations (TWA of passive 

monitoring samples taken during summer and winter 2010 and winter 2011) were 20.3 and 20.8 ppb, 

respectively, for current residences and 26.4 and 27.0 ppb, respectively, at current workplaces. 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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ATSDR (Inserra et al. 2004) examined residents of Dakota City, Nebraska for neurobehavioral effects 

resulting from chronic exposure to ≥90 ppb hydrogen sulfide. Although the 90 ppb level was used as a 

cut off value, historical monitoring data records showed much higher levels (e.g., the outdoor hydrogen 

sulfide level exceeded 1,000 ppb 275 times in the 1995–1999 time period). Hydrogen sulfide exposure 

did not appear to adversely affect performance on most neurobehavioral tests; in fact, the hydrogen 

sulfide exposed groups scored better than the referent group on 21 of the 28 tests, although the differences 

were not statistically significant. The hydrogen sulfide group did score lower on a memory test (match to 

sample score) and a test of grip strength, but the differences were not statistically significant. 

A significant association between mood/stress ratings and hydrogen sulfide levels were reported in 

residents living within 1.5 miles of at least one industrial hog operation in North Carolina (Horton et al. 

2009). The average hydrogen sulfide concentrations ranged from <0.01 to 1.5 ppb and the highest 

measured levels ranged from 2 to 90 ppb. During a 2-week period, the subjects were asked to go outside 

for 10 minutes twice a day and return inside and complete a five-question survey on mood/stress using a 

9-point rating scale. Although most of the time (>80%) the subjects rated annoyance or stress as 0 (not at 

all), significant associations between reporting stress or annoyance and feeling nervous or anxious with 

hydrogen sulfide atmospheric levels were found. The ORs for a 1-ppb change in hydrogen sulfide were 

1.18 (95% CI=1.08–1.30) for stress or annoyance and 1.12 (95% CI=1.08–1.30) for feeling nervous or 

anxious. Significant associations between the response to these questions and semivolatile PM10 levels 

were also found. It is unclear whether the observed effects were symptoms of a neurological effect or a 

response to the hydrogen sulfide odor. 

Additional ecological studies have reported neurological effects in communities near industrial sources of 

hydrogen sulfide, but do not provide reliable monitoring data. Alterations in tests of balance sway with 

eyes open or closed, color discrimination, visual field performance, cognition, and reaction time were 

observed in residents living near a hog manure lagoon, as compared to an out-of-state control group 

(Kilburn 2012). In residents living near an industrial source emitting chronic, low levels of hydrogen 

sulfide, a significant increase in central nervous system effects (OR=12.7; 95% CI=7.59–22.09) was 

observed, as compared to referent communities (Legator et al. 2001). A number of central nervous 

system effects were reported by at least 40% of the residents (including fatigue, depression, short-term 

memory loss, difficulty sleeping, numbness, lethargy, headaches, and changes in senses); the incidences 

of these symptoms in the referent population were ≤10%. Neurological symptoms (headache, dizziness, 

lightheadedness, loss of balance, extreme fatigue, somnolence, insomnia, irritability, lack of 

concentration, recent and long-term memory loss, and instability of mood) were reported in residents 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 80 

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living near sour gas/oil fields in New Mexico (Kilburn et al. 2010). Impaired performance on 

neurophysiological and neuropsychological function tests (including reaction time, balance sway, grip 

strength, psychological function, verbal recall, attention/coordination, and long-term memory) were also 

observed. In addition to the potential for exposure to hydrogen sulfide, the residents were also likely 

exposed to benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylenes (BTEX); cyclohexane; n-hexane; and 

naphthalene. 

Rabbits exposed to 72 ppm of hydrogen sulfide for 1.5 hours lost consciousness (Kosmider et al. 1967). 

Haider et al. (1980) observed behaviors in guinea pigs exposed daily to 20 ppm of hydrogen sulfide for 

11 days that were indicative of fatigue, somnolence, and dizziness; no additional information of overt 

behaviors were provided. Neurochemical analyses revealed decreased cerebral hemisphere and brain 

stem total lipids and phospholipids. Rats exposed to 800 ppm of hydrogen sulfide for 20 minutes lost 

consciousness (Beck et al. 1979). Lethargy was observed in rats following exposure to 400 ppm of 

hydrogen sulfide for 4 hours (Lopez et al. 1988b). 

A decreased response rate in a discriminated avoidance task was observed in male Wistar rats exposed to 

≥200–300 ppm hydrogen sulfide (Higuchi and Fukamachi 1977). At concentrations of <400–500 ppm, 

the response rates and percent avoidances recovered rapidly postexposure; at 400–500 ppm, the response 

rates were almost to within normal limits 1 day postexposure. When the animals were tested for Sidmantype conditioned avoidance response at response-shock intervals of 10 or 30 seconds, an inverse 

relationship between hydrogen sulfide concentration and response rate was noted (Higuchi and 

Fukamachi 1977). As with the discriminated avoidance task, the effect dissipated when exposure 

stopped. 

Excitement was observed in female NMRI mice exposed to 100 ppm of hydrogen sulfide for 2 hours at 

4-day intervals (Savolainen et al. 1980). Exposure also resulted in decreased cerebral ribonucleic acid 

(RNA), decreased orotic acid incorporation into the RNA fraction, and inhibition of cytochrome oxidase. 

An increase in the glial enzyme marker 2’,3’-cyclic nucleotide-3’-phosphohydrolase was seen. 

Neurochemical effects have been reported in other studies. Decreased leucine uptake and acid proteinase 

activity in the brain were observed in mice exposed to 100 ppm hydrogen sulfide for 2 hours (Elovaara et 

al. 1978). Inhibition of brain cytochrome oxidase and a decrease in orotic acid uptake were observed in 

mice exposed to 100 ppm hydrogen sulfide for up to 4 days (Savolainen et al. 1980). 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 81 

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Significant decreases in motor activity (ambulations and total movements) were observed in rats receiving 

nose-only exposure to 80, 200, or 400 ppm hydrogen sulfide 3 hours/day for 5 days (Struve et al. 2001). 

However, a decrease in motor activity was not observed in rats receiving whole-body exposures to 

80 ppm 3 hours/day for 5 days (Struve et al. 2001). The study authors did not discuss these conflicting 

results. In addition, significant impairment of learning and memory (as assessed in a water maze test) 

was observed in rats receiving nose-only exposure to 400 ppm. However, these results should be 

interpreted cautiously because the impaired learning and memory may have been secondary to the 

decrease in motor activity and decreased body temperature also observed in these animals. 

A series of intermediate-duration studies conducted by Partlo et al. (2001) used the radial arm maze to 

assess the effect of hydrogen sulfide on learning and memory in rats exposed to 125 ppm hydrogen 

sulfide 4 hours/day, 5 days/week for 5–11 weeks. In the first study, the rats were trained on the radial 

arm maze prior to hydrogen sulfide exposure. The 5-week exposure to hydrogen sulfide did not adversely 

affect postexposure performance on the maze, suggesting that 5 weeks of exposure to hydrogen sulfide 

did not adversely affect memory. In the second study, the rats were exposed to hydrogen sulfide and 

trained on the maze daily for 11 weeks. The results of this study suggest that hydrogen sulfide did not 

interfere with acquisition of the maze task, but did adversely affect performance rate. In the third study, 

the rats from the second study were retrained on a modified radial arm maze without additional exposure 

to hydrogen sulfide. These results suggested that the hydrogen sulfide-exposed rats had difficulty relearning a complex task. 

The intermediate-duration effects of hydrogen sulfide on neurological function were examined by the 

measurement of motor and sensory nerve conduction velocities of the tail nerve or morphology of the 

sciatic nerve (Gagnaire et al. 1986). Male Sprague-Dawley rats were exposed to 0 or 50 ppm hydrogen 

sulfide for 5 days/week for 25 weeks. The study authors did not report the duration of exposure to 

hydrogen sulfide per day. No neurotoxic effects were observed in the rats. 

Neurologic function and neuropathology were evaluated in Sprague-Dawley rats exposed to 0, 10, 30, or 

80.0 ppm hydrogen sulfide for 6 hours/day, 5 days/week for 90 days (CIIT 1983c). Neurological function 

evaluation included an assessment of posture; gait; tone of facial muscles; pupillary, palpebral, extensor 

thrust; and crossed-extensor thrust reflexes. Besides routine neuropathologic examinations, special 

studies included an examination of teased fibers from muscular and sural branches of the tibial nerve 

together with specimens from the cervical and lumbar spinal cord. Absolute brain weights were 

decreased (5%) in male rats exposed to 80 ppm hydrogen sulfide in this study; however, there were no 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 82 

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treatment-related effects on neurological function or neuropathology. No signs of neurotoxicity were 

noted in a similar study in which F-344 rats were exposed to 0, 10, 30, or 80 ppm hydrogen sulfide for 

90 days (CIIT 1983b). Likewise, no treatment-related neurological effects were observed in male and 

female B6C3F1 mice exposed to 0, 10.1, 30.5, or 80.0 ppm hydrogen sulfide for 90 days (CIIT 1983a). 

The highest NOAEL values and all reliable LOAEL values for neurological effects in rats, guinea pigs, 

mice, and rabbits from acute- or intermediate-duration hydrogen sulfide studies are recorded in Table 3-1 

and plotted in Figure 3-1. 

The available human data, supported by animal studies, provide strong evidence that hydrogen sulfide 

exposure adversely affects the nervous system. The most commonly reported effect in humans is 

unconsciousness which can be followed by death or an apparent full recovery (Deng and Chang 1987; 

Krekel 1964; McDonald and McIntosh 1951; Milby 1962; Spolyar 1951); most studies did not provide 

exposure information. In individuals who appeared to recover completely from the exposure, subsequent 

studies have found permanent neurological effects in some of these subjects, including vision and 

memory impairment, reduced motor function, and abnormal learning function (Kilburn 1993, 1997; 

Schneider et al. 1998; Snyder et al. 1995; Tvedt et al. 1991a, 1991b). No reliable data on the exposure 

level resulting in unconsciousness were located. Subclinical neurological effects (detected as alterations 

in neurological tests) were reported in individuals chronically exposed to low (concentration not 

specified) levels of hydrogen sulfide (Farahat and Kishk 2010; Kilburn 1997); the effects included 

alterations in balance, reaction time, verbal recall, and memory. Additionally, workers and community 

members living in areas with hydrogen sulfide pollution reported fatigue, irritability, headaches, poor 

memory, and/or stress (Ahlborg 1951; Horton et al. 2009; Kilburn et al. 2010; Legator et al. 2001; ParttiPellinen et al. 1996). As with other studies, limited monitoring data are available and the subjects were 

exposed to other substances including other sulfur compounds, benzene, toluene, and/or particulate 

matter. Studies in animals confirm the findings from the human studies. Unconsciousness was observed 

in rabbits exposed to 72 ppm for 1.5 hours (Kosmider et al. 1967) and rats exposed to 800 ppm for 

20 minutes (Beck et al. 1979) and lethargy was observed in rats exposed to 400 ppm for 4 hours (Lopez et 

al. 1988b). Additionally, impaired learning was observed in rats exposed to 125 ppm 4 hours/day, 

5 days/week for 11 weeks (Partlo et al. 2001). In other intermediate-duration studies, no effects on 

posture, gait, or reflexes were observed in rats and mice exposed to 80 ppm 6 hours/day, 5 days/week for 

90 days (CIIT 1983a, 1983c). 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 83 

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Carbonyl Sulfide. No studies were located regarding neurological effects in humans after inhalation 

exposure to carbonyl sulfide. 

Acute- and intermediate-duration exposure studies clearly identify the nervous system as a sensitive target 

of carbonyl sulfide toxicity. Morgan et al. (2004) noted a number of effects in rats exposed to carbonyl 

sulfide 6 hours/day, 5 days/week for 12 exposures. Hypotonia and slight gait abnormalities were 

observed in rats exposed to 400 ppm and ataxia and hypothermia were observed at 500 ppm. 

Hypothermia was also observed after one or two exposures to 600 ppm. Immediately after a single 

6-hour exposure to 600 ppm, lethargy was noted in rats; 1 day postexposure, the animals exhibited 

clinical signs of hypothermia, lethargy, head tilt, and ataxia (Morgan et al. 2004). Although the clinical 

signs lessened over a 14-day recovery period, ataxia with head tilt was noted in several animals at the end 

of the recovery period. Another study also reported ataxia in rats exposed to 453 ppm 6 hours/day, 

5 days/week for at least 6 days (Monsanto 1985b). No overt signs of neurotoxicity were observed in rats 

exposed to 300 ppm 6 hours/day, 5 days/week for 4 or 12 exposures (Morgan et al. 2004) or 253 ppm 

6 hours/day, 5 days/week for 11 exposures (Monsanto 1985b). Exposure to 400 ppm (6 hours/day, 

5 days/week) for 10 or 12 exposures also resulted in decreases in motor activity (Herr et al. 2007) and 

forelimb and hindlimb grip strength (Herr et al. 2007; Morgan et al. 2004); no alterations in motor 

function were observed at 300 ppm (Herr et al. 2007; Morgan et al. 2004). Functional observational 

battery testing in rats exposed to 400 ppm for 12 weeks showed mild gait changes in about 25% of the 

rats, which was more prevalent after 6 weeks of exposure than after 12 weeks of exposure (Morgan et al. 

2004). Morgan et al. (2004) suggested that there was some compensation for the motor impairment since 

the effects were more pronounced after 2 weeks of exposure than after 12 weeks of exposure. 

Histopathological alterations were observed in rats following a single 6-hour exposure to 600 ppm 

carbonyl sulfide (Morgan et al. 2004). Two weeks after the exposure, necrosis and microgliosis was 

observed in the cerebellar nucleus, internal capsule, and thalamus; no histological alterations were 

observed in the brains of rats similarly exposed to 75–300 ppm. In rats sacrificed in moribund condition 

after 2 days of exposure to 600 ppm (6 hours/day), bilateral symmetrical necrosis in the parietal cortex 

area 1 and thalamus and necrosis in the retrosplenial granular cortex, pyriform cortex, red nucleus, 

cerebellar roof nucleus, posterior collicular nucleus, and anterior olivary nucleus were observed (Morgan 

et al. 2004; Sills et al. 2004). No morphological lesions were observed in the brains of rats exposed to 

500 ppm 6 hours/day for 1 or 2 days (Morrison et al. 2009). After 3 or 4 days of exposure, bilateral 

symmetrical necrosis was observed in the posterior colliculi. Necrosis was also observed in the 

frontoparietal cortex, putamen, retrosplenial cortex, thalamus, and anterior olivary nucleus in rats exposed 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 84 

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to 500 ppm for 4 days (6 hours/day). After 5 days of exposure, neuronal degeneration was observed in 

the posterior colliculi; it was also observed in the medial geniculate nucleus, parietal cortex, and 

caudate/putamen after 10 days of exposure (6 hours/day) (Morrison et al. 2009). Neuronal loss and 

microgliosis were observed in the posterior thalamic nuclear group, zona inserta of the hypothalamus, and 

posterior colliculus in rats exposed to 600 ppm 6 hours/day for 2 days (Sills et al. 2004). Exposure to 

400 ppm 6 hours/day, 5 days/week for 12 exposures resulted in bilateral symmetrical necrosis in the 

parietal cortex area 1 and putamen (Morgan et al. 2004). Exposure to 500 ppm also resulted in bilateral 

symmetrical necrosis in the retrosplenial cortex, thalamus, posterior colliculus, and anterior olivary 

nucleus and there was cavitation (loss of brain substance) within the parietal cortex and retrosplenial 

cortex, as compared to rats exposed to 500 ppm for 5 days. No significant increases in the incidence of 

histological alterations were observed in rats exposed to 300 ppm for 12 exposures (Morgan et al. 2004). 

Similar findings were observed in rats exposed to 400 ppm carbonyl sulfide 6 hours/day, 5 days/week for 

12 weeks (Morgan et al. 2004; Sills et al. 2004). Significant increases in the incidence of unilateral or 

bilateral symmetrical cortical necrosis and cavitation in the parietal cortex area 1 and bilateral neuronal 

loss with microgliosis of the posterior colliculus were observed. No histological alterations were 

observed in rats exposed to 300 ppm. The results of the acute and intermediate duration studies suggest 

that the histological damage occurs shortly after exposure initiation and does not worsen with continued 

exposure. 

Neurophysiological alterations that correlated with the histopathological damage were also observed in 

rats exposed to 400 ppm carbonyl sulfide 6 hours/day, 5 days/week. After 12 weeks of exposure, 

significant increases in the peak-to-peak amplitudes in somatosensory evoked potentials from the 

S1 facial region cortex were observed. Significant alterations in peak amplitudes in brainstem auditoryevoked responses were observed after 2 (Herr et al. 2007; Morgan et al. 2004) or 12 weeks of exposure 

(Herr et al. 2007); no alterations were observed in rats exposed to 300 ppm for 12 weeks (Herr et al. 

2007). The investigators noted that the observed alterations of brainstem auditory-evoked responses peak 

generation indicated alterations in the region of the olivary complex-lateral lemniscus region of the 

brainstem, but with normal function of the auditory nerve and cochlear nucleus region. Additionally, the 

decreased peak amplitudes and lack of change in the peak latencies is suggestive of loss of neurons rather 

than changes in conduction along the brainstem neural pathway. Studies by Morgan et al. (2004) and 

Sills et al. (2004) have demonstrated neuronal loss and microglial infiltration in the posterior colliculi and 

anterior olivary nuclei in rats exposed to 400 ppm for 4–12 weeks. 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 85 

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Reflex modification of audiometry or visual evoked potentials after 2 weeks of exposure (6 hours/day, 

5 days/week, testing conducted 11 days postexposure) and peripheral nerve action potential or nerve 

conduction velocity after 2 weeks of exposure (tested 27 days postexposure) or 12 weeks of exposure 

(6 hours/day, 5 days/week; tested 34–40 days postexposure) were not significantly altered in rats exposed 

to 400 ppm (Herr et al. 2007). Additionally, there were no alterations in nerve conduction velocity after 

2 or 12 weeks of exposure (Herr et al. 2007). 

The highest NOAEL values and all reliable LOAEL values for neurological effects following exposure to 

carbonyl sulfide are recorded in Table 3-2 and plotted in Figure 3-2. 

3.2.1.5 Reproductive Effects 

Hydrogen Sulfide. There are limited data on the reproductive toxicity of hydrogen sulfide in humans. 

Hemminki and Niemi (1982) examined the spontaneous abortion rate in relationship to maternal and 

paternal occupation and residential environmental pollution in an industrial community in Finland. 

Women who were employed in rayon textile and paper products jobs had an increased rate of spontaneous 

abortions (p<0.10), as did women whose husbands worked in rayon textile or chemical processing jobs. 

This study also examined the possible relationship between exposure to sulfur dioxide, hydrogen sulfide, 

and carbon disulfide and the occurrence of spontaneous abortions. A non-statistically significant increase 

in the incidence of spontaneous abortion was observed in women living in areas with hydrogen sulfide 

concentrations exceeding 2.85 ppm. Interpretation of these results is limited by the lack of control of 

other potential confounding variables, particularly occupational exposure to other chemicals. A 

retrospective study of spontaneous abortions in a large population of women working in the 

petrochemical industry in China, Xu et al. (1998) reported a significantly increased risk of spontaneous 

abortion with frequent exposure to petrochemicals (OR of 2.7; 95% CI=1.8–3.9). When the risk 

associated with exposure to specific chemicals was examined, exposure to hydrogen sulfide was found to 

have an OR of 2.3 (95% CI=1.2–4.4). 

No treatment-related histopathological changes were found in male or female reproductive organs of 

F-344 or Sprague-Dawley rats or B6C3F1 mice exposed to TWA concentrations of 10, 30, or 80 ppm 

hydrogen sulfide for 6 hours/day, 5 days/week for 90 days (CIIT 1983a, 1983b, 1983c). No significant 

alterations in gestation length, viability, or litter size were observed in Sprague-Dawley rats exposed to 0, 

20, 50, or 75 ppm hydrogen sulfide for 7 hours/day on gestation days 6–21 (Hayden et al. 1990b). An 

apparent increase in parturition time was observed in the hydrogen sulfide-exposed dams (the mean 
385

1111

384

1082

367

453453

375

300

400

368

253

453

371

300

600

Table 3-2 Levels of Significant Exposure to Carbonyl Sulfide - Inhalation 

a 

Key to 

Figure 

Species 

(Strain) 

Exposure/ 

Duration/ 

Frequency 

(Route) 

ACUTE EXPOSURE Death 

1 Rat 

(CD) 

4 hr 

System 

NOAEL 

(ppm) 

Less Serious 

(ppm) 

LOAEL 

Serious 

(ppm) 

1111 M (LC50) 

Reference Chemical Form 

DuPont 1981 

2 Rat 

(SpragueDawley) 

Systemic 

3 Rat 

(SpragueDawley) 

4 hr 6 hr/d 5 d/wk 11 exposures 

Hemato 453 

1082 (LC50) Monsanto 1985a 

Monsanto 1985b 

Neurological 

4 Rat 

(Fischer- 344) 

6 hr/d 5 d/wk 10 exposures 

Bd Wt 453 

300 M 400 M (decreased motor 

activity, grip strength, slightly abnormal gait) 

Herr et al. 2007 

5 Rat 

(SpragueDawley) 

6 hr/d 5 d/wk 11 exposures 

253 453 (ataxia, tremors, 

convulsions) 

Monsanto 1985b 

6 Rat 

(Fischer- 344) 

6 hr/d 4 d 300 M 600 M (hypothermia, ataxia, and necrosis in parietal 

cortex, thalamus, posterior colliculi) 

Morgan et al. 2004 
372

300

400

500

376

500

377

500

378

500

379

500

Table 3-2 Levels of Significant Exposure to Carbonyl Sulfide - Inhalation (continued) 

a 

Key to 

Figure 

Species 

(Strain) 

Exposure/ 

Duration/ 

Frequency 

(Route) System NOAEL (ppm) Less Serious (ppm) 

LOAEL 

Serious 

(ppm) 

Reference Chemical Form 

7 Rat 

(Fischer- 344) 

6 hr/d 5 d/wk 12 exposures 

300 400 (decreased grip strength, 

hypotonia, slight gait abnormalities, necrosis in parietal cortex and putamen) 

500 (hypothermia, lethargy, 

ataxia, necrosis of in parietal cortex, putamen, thalamus, and loss of brain substance in parietal cortex and retrosplenial cortex) 

Morgan et al. 2004 

8 Rat 

(Fischer- 344) 

6 hr/d 5 d 500 M (neuronal degeneration in posterior colliculi) Morrison et al. 2009 

9 Rat 

(Fischer- 344) 

6 hr/d 10 d 500 M (neuronal degeneration in posterior colliculi, 

medial geniculate nucleus, parietal cortex, and caudate/putamen) 

Morrison et al. 2009 

10 Rat 

(Fischer- 344) 

6 hr/d 1-2 d 500 M Morrison et al. 2009 

11 Rat 

(Fischer- 344) 

6 hr/d 3 d 500 M (bilateral symmetrical necrosis in posterior 

colliculi) 

Morrison et al. 2009 
380

500

370

600

366

54

383

54

365

54

Table 3-2 Levels of Significant Exposure to Carbonyl Sulfide - Inhalation (continued) 

a 

Key to 

Figure 

Species 

(Strain) 

Exposure/ 

Duration/ 

Frequency 

(Route) System NOAEL (ppm) Less Serious (ppm) 

LOAEL 

Serious 

(ppm) 

Reference Chemical Form 

12 Rat 

(Fischer- 344) 

6 hr/d 4 d 500 M (necrosis in posterior colliculi, frontoparietal 

cortex, putamen, retrosplenial cortex, thalamus, and anterior olivary nucleus) 

Morrison et al. 2009 

13 Rat 

(Fischer- 344) 

6 hr/d 2 d 600 (Neuronal loss and microgliosis in posterior 

thalamic nuclear group, zona inserta of the hypothalamus, and posterior colliculus) 

Sills et al. 2004 

INTERMEDIATE EXPOSURE Death 

14 Rabbit 

(White Danish Country) 

continuous 7 weeks 54 M (3/8 died within first 5 days) Hugod and Astrup 1980

Hugod 1981 

15 Rabbit 

(White Danish country) 

continuous 7 weeks 54 F (3/18 died within 5 days) Kamstrup and Hugod 19

Systemic 

16 Rabbit 

(White Danish Country) 

continuous 7 weeks Cardio 54 M Hugod and Astrup 1980

Hugod 1981 
382

5454

374

300

400

373

300

400

369

300

400

381

60

182

Table 3-2 Levels of Significant Exposure to Carbonyl Sulfide - Inhalation (continued) 

a 

Key to 

Figure 

Species 

(Strain) System 

Exposure/ 

Duration/ 

Frequency 

(Route) NOAEL (ppm) 

LOAEL 

Less Serious 

(ppm) 

Serious 

(ppm) 

Reference Chemical Form 

17 Resp Rabbit (White Danish 

country) 

continuous 7 weeks 54 F Kamstrup and Hugod 19

Cardio 

Neurological 

18 Rat 

(Fischer- 344) 

6 hr/d 5 d/wk 12 wk 

54 F 

300 400 (altered somatosensory Herr et al. 2007

evoked potentials in the facial region cortex of the brain and brainstem auditory evoked response peaks) 

19 Rat 

(Fischer- 344) 

6 hr/d 5 d/wk 12 wk 

300 400 (necrosis or cavitation in Morgan et al. 2004

parietal cortex and neuronal loss or microgliosis in posterior colliculus) 

20 Rat 

(Fischer- 344) 

6 hr/d 5 d/wk 12 wk 

300 400 (microgliosis in the Sills et al. 2004

posterior colliculus, gliosis in the anterior olivary nucleus, bilateral symmetrical malacia in parietal cortex) 

Reproductive 

21 Rat 

(SpragueDawley) 

6 hr/d 5 d/wk for 10 wk 

then 7 d/wk for 3 wk 

60 M 182 M (decreased pregnancy Monsanto 1987

rate) 

a The number corresponds to entries in Figure 3-2. Bd Wt = body weight; Cardio = cardiovascular; d = day(s); F = Female; Hemato = hematological; hr = hour(s); LC50 = lethal concentration, 50% kill; LOAEL = lowest-observed-adverse-effect level; M = male; NOAEL = no-observed-adverse-effect level; ppm = parts per million; Resp = respiratory; wk = week(s) 
Death 

HemBody Weight Neurological 

atological 

ppm 

10000 

1r 2r

1000 

6r 13r 

7r 8r 9r 10r 11r 12r 

3r 3r 5r 

4r 7r 

4r 6r 7r 

5r 

100 

c-Cat 

d-Dog

r-Rat 

p-Pig

q-Cow 

k-Monkey

m-Mouse 

h-Rabbit 

a-Sheep 

f-Ferret 

j-Pigeon

e-Gerbil 

s-Hamster 

g-Guinea Pig 

n-Mink 

o-Other

 Cancer Effect Level-Animals

 LOAEL, More Serious-Animals

LOAEL, Less Serious-Animals

NOAEL - Animals

 Cancer Effect Level-Humans

 LOAEL, More Serious-Humans

LOAEL, Less Serious-Humans

NOAEL - Humans

 LD50/LC50

Minimal Risk Level

 for effects

 other than

 Cancer 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 3. HEALTH EFFECTS

Figure 3-2 Levels of Significant Exposure to Carbonyl Sulfide - Inhalation
	

Acute (≤14 days) 

Systemic 

90
Death 

RespiratoCardiovaNeurologiReprodu

1000 

ppm 

18r 19r 20r 

18r 19r 20r 

21r 

100 

21r 

14h 15h 17h 16h 17h 

10 

c-Cat 

d-Dog

r-Rat 

p-Pig

q-Cow 

k-Monkey

m-Mouse 

h-Rabbit 

a-Sheep 

f-Ferret 

j-Pigeon

e-Gerbil 

s-Hamster 

g-Guinea Pig 

n-Mink 

o-Other

 Cancer Effect Level-Animals

 LOAEL, More Serious-Animals

LOAEL, Less Serious-Animals

NOAEL - Animals

 Cancer Effect Level-Humans

 LOAEL, More Serious-Humans

LOAEL, Less Serious-Humans

NOAEL - Humans

 LD50/LC50

Minimal Risk Level

 for effects

 other than

 Cancer 

ry 

scular 

cal 

ctive 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 3. HEALTH EFFECTS

Figure 3-2 Levels of Significant Exposure to Carbonyl Sulfide - Inhalation (Continued)
 

Intermediate (15-364 days)
	

Systemic 

91
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 92 

3. HEALTH EFFECTS 

lengths of parturition were 105.0, 148.8, and 117.5 minutes, compared to 85.2, 124, and 82.5 minutes in 

the three control groups); these data were not statistically analyzed. The study authors noted that 

increased parturition time was observed in 6 out of 18 exposed animals and in 1 of 17 controls. Dorman 

et al. (2000) did not find any significant alterations in gestation length in Sprague-Dawley rats exposed to 

10, 30, or 80 ppm hydrogen sulfide for 6 hours/day, 7 days/week for 2 weeks prior to mating with 

exposed males, during the 2 week mating period, and on gestational days 0–19. This study also found no 

significant alterations in fertility (as assessed by mating index, fertility index, postimplantation loss, late 

resorptions, or still births), number of females with live pups, litter size, or number of implants per 

female. No histological alterations in the reproductive organs and accessory sex organs of rats in the 

controls and 80 ppm exposure group were found; a slight, nonstatistically significant increase in the 

incidence of testicular degeneration was observed at 80 ppm. Additionally, no significant alterations in 

sperm count or morphology were observed. 

The highest NOAEL values for reproductive effects following exposure to hydrogen sulfide in rats and 

mice from intermediate-duration studies are recorded in Table 3-1 and plotted in Figure 3-1. 

Carbonyl Sulfide. No studies were located regarding reproductive effects in humans after inhalation 

exposure to carbonyl sulfide. 

One study examined the reproductive toxicity of carbonyl sulfide in male rats (Monsanto 1987). A 

decrease in pregnancy rate was observed in unexposed female rats mated with male rats exposed to 

182 ppm carbonyl sulfide 6 hours/day, 5 days/week for 10 weeks and 6 hours/day, 7 days/week for a 

3-week mating period. When the males were allowed to recover for 10 weeks prior to mating to 

unexposed females, no alterations in fertility were observed (Monsanto 1987). This study identified a 

NOAEL of 60 ppm. The NOAEL and the LOAEL values from this study are recorded in Table 3-2 and 

plotted in Figure 3-2. 

3.2.1.6 Developmental Effects 

Hydrogen Sulfide. No studies were located regarding developmental effects in humans after inhalation 

exposure to hydrogen sulfide. 

No changes in serum protein, LDH, SGOT, or alkaline phosphatase activity were noted in the offspring of 

Sprague-Dawley rats exposed to 20, 50, or 75 ppm hydrogen sulfide for 7 hours/day from gestation day 1 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 93 

3. HEALTH EFFECTS 

through postnatal day 21 (Hayden et al. 1990a). No effects on blood glucose were noted in the offspring, 

although glucose levels were increased by about 50% in dams at all exposure concentrations on postnatal 

day 21 (Hayden et al. 1990a). In a second study, these authors (Hayden et al. 1990b) found a dose-related 

increase in parturition time in animals exposed to 20, 50, or 75 ppm hydrogen sulfide for 7 hours/day 

from gestation day 6 until postpartum day 21. The study also showed developmental delays in pinnae 

attachment and hair growth, but these effects were not dose related. 

No fetal effects were noted in a dose range-finding developmental study in which pregnant SpragueDawley rats were exposed to 150 ppm hydrogen sulfide on gestation days 6–20, despite body weight loss 

in the dams (Saillenfait et al. 1989). 

No significant alterations in the incidence of structural anomalies were found in the offspring of SpragueDawley rats exposed to 10, 30, or 80 ppm hydrogen sulfide 6 hours/day, 7 days/week on gestational days 

0–19 (Dorman et al. 2000). Continued exposure on postnatal days 5–18 did not result in developmental 

delays (pinnae detachment, surface righting, incisor eruption, negative geotaxis, and eyelid detachment), 

performance on developmental neurobehavioral tests (motor activity, passive avoidance, acoustic startle, 

or functional observation battery), or brain histopathology. 

An examination of Purkinje cells from Sprague-Dawley rat pups exposed to 20 or 50 ppm hydrogen 

sulfide for 7 hours/day from gestation day 5 through postpartum day 21 showed severe alterations in the 

architecture and growth characteristic of the Purkinje cell dendritic fields compared to controls (Hannah 

and Roth 1991). The study did not mention whether any maternal effects were observed; however, the 

authors did indicate that “these findings suggest that developing neurons exposed to low concentrations of 

hydrogen sulfide are at risk of severe deficits.” Two studies by Hannah et al. (1989, 1990) examined the 

effects of prenatal exposure to hydrogen sulfide on amino acid levels in the brain. In the first study, 

pregnant Sprague-Dawley rats were exposed to 75 ppm hydrogen sulfide for 7 hours/day, from postcoitus 

day 5 to postpartum day 21 (Hannah et al. 1989). Aspartate, glutamate, and GABA in the cerebrum and 

cerebellum were significantly reduced (about 20%) compared to controls by postpartum day 21. Taurine 

levels of the offspring were initially 25% higher than controls but had returned to control range by 

postpartum day 21; taurine levels were not measured in dams. In the 1990 study, pregnant SpragueDawley rats were exposed to 50 ppm hydrogen sulfide for 7 hours/day, from postcoital day 6 to 

postpartum day 21 (Hannah et al. 1990). In this study, maternal taurine levels were determined on 

parturition and on postpartum day 21. Taurine in maternal plasma was 30% higher than controls; taurine 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 94 

3. HEALTH EFFECTS 

levels were not determined in offspring, so relating these levels to high taurine levels found in offspring in 

the 1989 study is speculative. 

Further investigation into the developmental neurological effects of hydrogen sulfide was undertaken by 

Skrajny et al. (1992). Pregnant Sprague-Dawley rats were exposed to 20 or 75 ppm hydrogen sulfide 

7 hours/day from gestation day 5 to postpartum day 21; separate control groups were used for each 

exposure level. Significant increases in serotonin levels were observed in the frontal cortex and 

cerebellum on postpartum days 14 and 21 in the 75 ppm group and in the cerebellum on postpartum 

day 21 in the 20 ppm group. Significant decreases in norepinephrine levels were observed in frontal 

cortex and cerebellum on postpartum day 14 in the 20 ppm group and in the frontal cortex on postpartum 

day 21 in the 20 ppm group. In contrast, significant increases in norepinephrine levels were observed in 

the cerebellum on postpartum day 7 in the 20 and 75 ppm groups, in the cerebellum on postpartum day 14 

in the 75 ppm group, and in the frontal cortex and cerebellum on postpartum day 21 in the 75 ppm group 

(Skrajny et al. 1992). In a subsequent study, the same exposure regimen (i.e., between day 5 postcoital 

until day 21 postnatal) was used to follow the monoamine levels in various regions of the brain up to 

60 days postnatal (Roth et al. 1995). This study found that the alterations of monoamine levels observed 

at day 21 postnatal (the last day of exposure) gradually returned to control values by day 45. 

The highest NOAEL and all reliable LOAEL values for developmental effects in each species and 

duration category are recorded in Table 3-1 and plotted in Figure 3-1. 

Carbonyl Sulfide. No studies were located regarding developmental effects in humans or animals after 

inhalation exposure to carbonyl sulfide. 

3.2.1.7 Cancer 

Hydrogen Sulfide. There was no increase in cancer incidence noted in a residential cohort study of 

individuals living downwind from natural gas refineries in Alberta, Canada, from 1970 to 1984 

(Schechter et al. 1989). In a retrospective epidemiologic study using cancer registry data from 1981 to 

1990, Bates et al. (1998) evaluated the risk of cancer to known target organ systems of hydrogen sulfide 

toxicity in residents of Rotorua, a New Zealand city that uses geothermal energy for industrial and 

domestic heating purposes. No information on hydrogen sulfide levels was presented in this report, but 

the authors indicate concerns that exposures to hydrogen sulfide and/or mercury from geothermal sources 

could have health impacts. In their previous work, it was indicated that the most reliable monitoring 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 95 

3. HEALTH EFFECTS 

information for hydrogen sulfide in the area came from a monitoring exercise in 1978 that found a median 

concentration of hydrogen sulfide of 20 μg/m3

, with 35% of the measurements over 70 μg/m3 and 10% 

over 400 μg/m3 (Bates et al. 1997). Based on the cancer registry information, a significantly increased 

risk of nasal cancers (SIR=3.17; p=0.01) was found among Rotorua residents as compared to the rest of 

the population of New Zealand. However, since this is a rare cancer, this finding is based on only four 

cancers. Because the population of Rotorua has a higher percentage of Māoris than the rest of New 

Zealand, the investigators also examined their data stratified by ethnicity and sex and found a 

significantly increased risk of cancers of the trachea, bronchus, and lung (SIR=1.48; p=0.02) among 

female Māoris in Rotorua as compared to female Māoris in the rest of New Zealand. Differences in 

smoking history between these two populations were not sufficient to explain the observed differences in 

risk. The authors concluded that the lack of adequate exposure information did not permit findings of 

causal relationships between hydrogen sulfide and cancer incidence. The potential co-exposure to 

mercury also confounds the interpretation of these results. 

No studies were located regarding cancer effects in animals after inhalation exposure to hydrogen sulfide. 

Carbonyl Sulfide. No studies were located regarding cancer effects in humans or animals after inhalation 

exposure to carbonyl sulfide. 

3.2.2 Oral Exposure 

No studies were located regarding health effects in humans or animals after oral exposure to carbonyl 

sulfide. 

3.2.2.1 Death 

No studies were located regarding death in humans or animals after oral exposure to hydrogen sulfide. 

3.2.2.2 Systemic Effects 

No studies were located regarding respiratory, cardiovascular, hematological, musculoskeletal, hepatic, 

renal, endocrine, dermal, ocular, or metabolic effects after oral exposure to hydrogen sulfide. 

Gastrointestinal Effects. No studies were located regarding gastrointestinal effects in humans after 

oral exposure to hydrogen sulfide. 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 96 

3. HEALTH EFFECTS 

Diarrheic digestive disorder was observed in adult pigs fed hydrogen sulfide at a dose level of 

15 mg/kg/day for a few days (Wetterau et al. 1964). The study authors reported that in a repeat study 

using younger pigs that weighed less, no diarrheic disorder was noted. 

Body Weight Effects. No studies were located regarding body weight effects in humans after oral 

exposure to hydrogen sulfide. 

Decreased body weight gain (48.2 kg total weight gain in treated animals versus 62.5 kg total weight gain 

in controls) was observed in pigs fed hydrogen sulfide at a dose level of 6.7 mg/kg/day for 105 days 

(Wetterau et al. 1964). 

No studies were located regarding the following health effects in humans or animals after oral exposure to 

hydrogen sulfide: 

3.2.2.3 Immunological and Lymphoreticular Effects 

3.2.2.4 Neurological Effects 

3.2.2.5 Reproductive Effects 

3.2.2.6 Developmental Effects 

3.2.2.7 Cancer 

3.2.3 Dermal Exposure 

No studies were located regarding health effects in humans or animals after dermal exposure to carbonyl 

sulfide. 

3.2.3.1 Death 

No studies were located regarding death in humans after dermal exposure to hydrogen sulfide. 

A study by Laug and Draize (1942) reported death in two out of three rabbits exposed to unknown 

concentrations of hydrogen sulfide through either clipped, intact, or abraded skin. One rabbit with intact 

skin exposed to hydrogen sulfide for 2 hours survived, while another died in this interval. The rabbit 

exposed to hydrogen sulfide through abraded skin also died (Laug and Draize 1942). When two guinea 

pigs were exposed to unknown concentrations of hydrogen sulfide gas for 60 minutes on a small area of 
 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 97 

3. HEALTH EFFECTS 

their shaved abdomen, neither died (Walton and Witherspoon 1925). However, both guinea pigs that had 

their entire shaved torso (about 50% body area) exposed to an unknown concentration of hydrogen sulfide 

died after about 45 minutes (Walton and Witherspoon 1925). No clinical signs of toxicity were seen in a 

dog with shaved abdomen exposed full body (except the head) to unknown concentrations of hydrogen 

sulfide in a chamber for 1 hour (Walton and Witherspoon 1925). 

3.2.3.2 Systemic Effects 

No studies were located regarding respiratory, cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, hematological, 

musculoskeletal, hepatic, renal, endocrine, dermal, ocular, or body weight effects in humans or animals 

after dermal exposure to hydrogen sulfide. However, several sources indicate that care must be taken 

with liquefied hydrogen sulfide in order to avoid frostbite (ATSDR 2001a; NIOSH 2011). 

3.2.3.3 Immunological and Lymphoreticular Effects 

No studies were located regarding immunological and lymphoreticular effects in humans or animals after 

dermal exposure to hydrogen sulfide. 

3.2.3.4 Neurological Effects 

No studies were located regarding neurological effects in humans after dermal exposure to hydrogen 

sulfide. 

No clinical signs of neurotoxicity were seen in two guinea pigs exposed to an unknown concentration of 

hydrogen sulfide gas for 60 minutes on a small area of their shaved abdomen (Walton and Witherspoon 

1925). A dog exposed to an unknown concentration of hydrogen sulfide for 1 hour showed no clinical 

signs of neurotoxicity (Walton and Witherspoon 1925). 

No studies were located regarding the following health effects in humans or animals after dermal 

exposure to hydrogen sulfide: 

3.2.3.5 Reproductive Effects 

3.2.3.6 Developmental Effects 

3.2.3.7 Cancer 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 98 

3. HEALTH EFFECTS 

3.3 GENOTOXICITY 

Hydrogen Sulfide. No studies were located regarding the genotoxicity of hydrogen sulfide in humans. 

No mutagenicity was observed with hydrogen sulfide gas in Ames assays using Salmonella typhimurium 

TA97, TA98, and TA100 strains, either with or without S9 liver fractions, of male Syrian golden 

hamsters or Sprague-Dawley rats that had been induced with 500 mg/kg Aroclor 1254 (EPA 1984). 

However, it should be noted that the concentration of hydrogen sulfide gas was limited by its solubility in 

ethanol, which was the test solvent (EPA 1984). The highest dose that could be obtained was 

1,750 μg/plate. 

Carbonyl Sulfide. No studies were located regarding the genotoxicity of carbonyl sulfide. 

3.4 TOXICOKINETICS 

Although hydrogen sulfide is primarily absorbed through the lungs, it can also be absorbed through the 

gastrointestinal tract and intact skin (Laug and Draize 1942; Wetterau et al. 1964). It is metabolized 

through three pathways: oxidation, methylation, and reactions with metalloproteins or disulfidecontaining proteins (Beauchamp et al. 1984). Although the major metabolic pathway for detoxification of 

hydrogen sulfide is oxidation in the liver, the methylation pathway also serves as a detoxification route 

(EPA 1987; Weisiger and Jakoby 1979). The major oxidation product of hydrogen sulfide is thiosulfate, 

which may further converted to sulfate and subsequently be excreted in urine (Bartholomew et al. 1980). 

Hydrogen sulfide is widely distributed in the body. Sulfides have been found in the liver, blood, brain, 

lungs, spleen, and kidneys of humans who died after accidental inhalation exposure. Hydrogen sulfide is 

excreted primarily as sulfate (free sulfate or thiosulfate) in the urine. It is also excreted unchanged in 

exhaled air and in feces and flatus. 

Limited data on the toxicokinetics of carbonyl sulfide were located. Carbonyl sulfide is absorbed via the 

respiratory tract based on the finding of histological damage in the brains of rats exposed to carbonyl 

sulfide gas (Morgan et al. 2004). In vitro studies suggest that carbonyl sulfide is metabolized to hydrogen 

sulfide and thiosulfate (Chengelis and Neal 1979) and in vivo evidence suggests that it is metabolized by 

carbonic anhydrase (Chengelis and Neal 1980) and the mixed function oxidase enzyme system to carbon 

dioxide (Chengelis and Neal 1979). No additional toxicokinetic data were identified. 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 99 

3. HEALTH EFFECTS 

3.4.1 Absorption 

3.4.1.1 Inhalation Exposure 

Hydrogen Sulfide. Hydrogen sulfide is absorbed rapidly through the lungs (Adelson and Sunshine 1966; 

Allyn 1931; Breysse 1961; Deng and Chang 1987; Hagley and South 1983; Kimura et al. 1994; NIOSH 

1989; Osbern and Crapo 1981; Parra et al. 1991). Inhalation absorption of lethal concentrations of 

hydrogen sulfide is rapid in humans, and effects can occur within seconds to minutes. Inhalation is the 

most common route of hydrogen sulfide exposure. Hydrogen sulfide dissociates at physiological pH to 

the hydrogen sulfide anion, which is probably the absorbed form (WHO 1987). No quantitative data are 

available regarding the absorption of hydrogen sulfide in humans. 

Animal data demonstrate that absorption of hydrogen sulfide via the lungs occurs readily and rapidly, but 

are not sufficient to quantitatively determine the proportion of an inhaled dose that is absorbed (Beck et 

al. 1979; Kage et al. 1992; Khan et al. 1990; Lopez et al. 1989; Nagata et al. 1990; Prior et al. 1988, 1990; 

Smith and Gosselin 1964; Tansy et al. 1981). No physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) models 

have been developed to provide estimates of hydrogen sulfide absorption. 

Carbonyl Sulfide. No data on the absorption of carbonyl sulfide were identified; however, the findings of 

brain lesions in rats exposed to carbonyl sulfide gas provide evidence that it is absorbed via the 

respiratory tract. 

3.4.1.2 Oral Exposure 

Hydrogen Sulfide. Hydrogen sulfide exists as a gas; therefore, oral exposure to hydrogen sulfide will not 

typically occur. No studies were located regarding absorption in humans after oral exposure to hydrogen 

sulfide. Some case reports showing accidental oral ingestion of liquid manure or other substances that 

might contain hydrogen sulfide exist, but in all of these cases, the ingestion was secondary to being 

"knocked down" by inhalation of hydrogen sulfide (Freireich 1946; Imamura et al. 1996; Kimura et al. 

1994; Osbern and Crapo 1981). 

One animal study suggests that hydrogen sulfide can be absorbed through the gastrointestinal tract. A 

study where pigs were fed diets containing dried greens with levels of hydrogen sulfide of 1.5, 3.1, or 

6.7 mg/kg/day for 105 days indicated that hydrogen sulfide is absorbed following ingestion (Wetterau et 

al. 1964). 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 100 

3. HEALTH EFFECTS 

Carbonyl Sulfide. As with hydrogen sulfide, carbonyl sulfide is a gas and oral exposure will not typically 

occur. 

3.4.1.3 Dermal Exposure 

Hydrogen Sulfide. No studies were located regarding absorption in humans after dermal hydrogen 

sulfide exposure. 

Animal data have shown that dermal hydrogen sulfide absorption can occur, although large surface areas 

of skin must be exposed. In one study, the trunk fur of rabbits was clipped for exposure to unknown 

concentrations of hydrogen sulfide gas for 1.5–2 hours. Evidence for the absorption of hydrogen sulfide 

included both the death of the animals and a positive sulfide reaction of expired air with lead acetate 

paper (Laug and Draize 1942). No evidence of dermal absorption was found in two guinea pigs exposed 

to unknown concentrations of hydrogen sulfide gas for 1 hour on a small area of their shaved abdomens 

(Walton and Witherspoon 1925). Dermal absorption was indicated, however, when the entire torso of 

guinea pigs was exposed to hydrogen sulfide gas and the animals died after about 45 minutes (Walton and 

Witherspoon 1925). No clinical signs of toxicity were reported in a dog that received full-body exposure 

(except the head) to unknown concentrations of hydrogen sulfide (Walton and Witherspoon 1925). 

Carbonyl Sulfide. No information was located on the dermal absorption of carbonyl sulfide. 

3.4.2 Distribution 

No information was located on the distribution of carbonyl sulfide by any route of exposure. 

3.4.2.1 Inhalation Exposure 

Hydrogen Sulfide. Few human data are available regarding tissue distribution after inhalation exposure 

to hydrogen sulfide. One case study reported sulfide (as bis[pentafluorobenzyl]sulfide) distribution in 

three of four men who drowned after being “overcome” (presumably, by hydrogen sulfide) and falling 

unconscious into a lake in Japan (Kimura et al. 1994). Concentrations of hydrogen sulfide gas were 

estimated to be 550–650 ppm, based upon extrapolation of tissue concentrations from rat studies (Kimura 

et al. 1994; Nagata et al. 1990). Initial blood sulfide concentrations determined 2–3 hours postmortem in 

these individuals were 0.1, 0.2, and 0.08 μg/g tissue. At 24 hours after death, the blood sulfide levels 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 101 

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were 0.5 μg/g, 0.23 μg/g, and undetected, respectively. At 24 hours after death, sulfide concentrations in 

the brains of these individuals were 0.2, 0.4, and 1.06 μg/g; and lung concentrations were 0.68, 0.21, and 

0.23 μg/g. Based on a study in rats by this same group of researchers (Nagata et al. 1990) that showed 

little or no increase in sulfide concentrations in rat lung and brain 24 hours after death (as well as a lack of 

sulfide in these tissues in control rats). Kimura and colleagues postulated that the sulfide levels observed 

in the brain and lungs in the human study may be indicators of tissue levels at the time of death (Kimura 

et al. 1994). Sulfide was detected, postmortem, in the liver (1.30–1.56 μg/g), spleen (0.32–0.64 μg/g), 

and kidney (0.47–1.50 μg/g) (Kimura et al. 1994). In another study of a man who was “overcome” by 

hydrogen sulfide in a tank, hydrogen sulfide levels of 0.92, 1.06, 0.34, and 0.38 μg/g were measured 

postmortem in the blood, brain, kidney, and liver, respectively (Winek et al. 1968). Hydrogen sulfide 

concentrations in the tank after the accident were 1,900–6,100 ppm (Winek et al. 1968). 

Data from animal studies suggest that the distribution of inhaled hydrogen sulfide is rapid and 

widespread, while storage of hydrogen sulfide in the body is limited by rapid metabolism and excretion. 

Adult male rats exposed to 550 or 650 ppm hydrogen sulfide until death had tissue samples taken at 0, 4, 

24, and 48 hours after death (Nagata et al. 1990). Sulfide concentrations were measured 1, 7, and 30 days 

later. Immediately after death, sulfide concentrations in whole blood were 0.48 μg/g in exposed animals 

and were nondetectable in control animals. Sulfide concentrations rapidly increased with time after death 

in both control and treated animals. Significant increases in sulfide concentrations were found in the lung 

(0.60 μg/g), brain (0.31 μg/g), thigh muscle (0.21 μg/g), and abdominal muscles (0.22 μg/g), as compared 

to sulfide concentrations in tissues of controls (tissues collected immediately after death) (Nagata et al. 

1990). Liver and kidney samples had similar sulfide concentrations in both exposed and control groups 

when taken immediately after death. Certain tissues (blood, liver, and kidneys) exhibited an increase in 

sulfide concentration with time after death (whether hydrogen sulfide exposure occurred or not) while 

other tissues (lung, brain, and muscle) had little or no change in sulfide concentration (Nagata et al. 

1990). 

Distribution of hydrogen sulfide in male Wistar rats was examined by Kohno et al. (1991). Animals 

exposed to 75 ppm hydrogen sulfide for 20, 40, or 60 minutes showed essentially the same tissue 

distribution of hydrogen sulfide irrespective of duration: 10 μg/mL in blood, 25 μg/g in brain, 20 μg/g in 

lung, 37 μg/g in heart, 20 μg/g in liver, 25 μg/g in spleen, and 30 μg/g in kidney. The levels in the brain, 

lung, heart, liver, spleen, and kidney were significantly (p>0.01) higher than blood levels after 20 minutes 

of exposure. 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 102 

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Japanese white rabbits exposed to 500–1,000 ppm of hydrogen sulfide (the lethal concentration) for 

60 minutes had thiosulfate concentrations of 0.08 μmol/mL in blood, 0.095 μmol/g in lung, and 

0.023 μmol/g in brain (Kage et al. 1992). Little or no thiosulfate was found in the liver, kidney, or 

muscle. When rabbits were exposed to 100–200 ppm of hydrogen sulfide for 60 minutes, blood 

thiosulfate levels decreased from 0.061 μmol/mL immediately postexposure to a trace level at 2 hours 

postexposure (Kage et al. 1992). 

3.4.2.2 Oral Exposure 

No studies were located regarding tissue distribution in humans or animals after oral exposure to 

hydrogen sulfide. 

3.4.2.3 Dermal Exposure 

No studies were located regarding tissue distribution in humans or animals after dermal exposure to 

hydrogen sulfide. 

3.4.3 Metabolism 

Hydrogen Sulfide. Hydrogen sulfide metabolism occurs through three pathways: oxidation, methylation, 

and reaction with metallo- or disulfide-containing proteins (Beauchamp et al. 1984; EPA 1987). 

Hydrogen sulfide is primarily detoxified by oxidation reactions to sulfate (Tabacova 1986). Hydrogen 

sulfide can also be detoxified by methylation (EPA 1987; Weisiger and Jakoby 1979). The proposed 

detoxification pathways most currently accepted for the metabolism of hydrogen sulfide are shown in 

Figure 3-3 and include oxidation, methylation, as well as the toxic pathways resulting from interactions 

with metalloproteins and disulfide-containing proteins. 

The major metabolic pathway for hydrogen sulfide in the body is the oxidation of sulfide to sulfate, which 

is excreted in the urine (Beauchamp et al. 1984). The major oxidation product of sulfide is thiosulfate, 

which can be further converted to sulfate; the primary location for these reactions is in the liver 

(Bartholomew et al. 1980). 

Urinary thiosulfate levels were measured in volunteers exposed to 8, 18, or 30 ppm of hydrogen sulfide 

for 30–45 minutes and compared to levels in unexposed individuals at a pelt processing plant (Kangas and 

Savolainen 1987). Very little urinary thiosulfate was excreted in controls (2.9 μmol/mmol creatinine). 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

containing

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 103 

3. HEALTH EFFECTS 

Figure 3-3. Metabolic Pathways of Hydrogen Sulfide 

Thiol-S Reaction -methyl- Metalloproteins transferase consequences H (Fe, Cu) 2S 

S-Adenosylmethionine 

Disulfde- ferritin 

Succinic dehydrogenase 

proteins 

HSHeme 

compounds O2 

H2O + S 

Polysulfide 

intermediates 

Sulfide O2 

oxidase 

S2O3 

= 

(Thiosulfate) 

GSH 

HS-

+SO3 

=+GSSG 

NAPD+ 

NADPH 

GSH reductase 

Sulfite 

oxidase O2 

SO4 

= 

Oxidation 

CH3SH 1. Methemoglobin, Detoxification 

2. Cytochrome oxidase Toxicity Thiol-S-methyl­ 3. Catalase, peroxidase transferase 

CH3SCH3 

Methylation Interactions with metalloproteins 

and disulfide-containing proteins 

Source: Beauchamp et al. 1984 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 104 

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The highest urinary thiosulfate levels among exposed individuals occurred 15 hours after exposure and 

decreased to control levels by 17 hours postexposure (Kangas and Savolainen 1987). Most absorbed 

hydrogen sulfide was already oxidized by 15 hours postexposure (Kangas and Savolainen 1987). This 

study was limited by the lack of summary data on exposed individuals and inadequate data regarding the 

numbers of subjects. Using perfused rat liver, Bartholomew et al. (1980) found that there was a rapid 

oxidation of 35S-sulfide to sulfate. Furthermore, there was a decrease in thiosulfate released from the liver 

when nonlabelled thiosulfate was added to the perfusion system, suggesting that thiosulfate acts as an 

intermediate in the oxidation to sulfate (Bartholomew et al. 1980). 

Elevated levels of thiosulfate were observed in the blood, lung, and brain of Japanese white rabbits 

exposed to 500–1,000 ppm hydrogen sulfide (lethal concentration) for 14–30 minutes (Kage et al. 1992). 

Exposure to 100–200 ppm for 60 minutes resulted in thiosulfate levels in the urine that peaked 

(1.2 μM/mL) 1–2 hours after exposure and could still be detected in urine 24 hours after exposure (Kage 

et al. 1992). In the blood, the thiosulfate levels peaked (0.061 μM/mL) immediately after exposure and 

were undetectable after 4 hours. Sulfide was not detected in blood or urine of rabbits exposed to 100– 

200 ppm hydrogen sulfide. 

Evidence for the methylation of hydrogen sulfide comes primarily from in vitro studies of SpragueDawley rats' intestinal mucosa (Weisiger et al. 1980). Thiol S-methyltransferase catalyzed the 

methylation of hydrogen sulfide to methanethiol (CH3SH). Methanethiol can act as a substrate for 

another methylation also catalyzed by thiol S-methyltransferase, yielding dimethylsulfide (CH3SCH3). 

The activity of thiol S-methyltransferase was widely distributed, with the greatest activity in cecal and 

colonic mucosa, liver, lung, and kidney tissues. Thiol S-methyltransferase activity was also found in 

other parts of the intestine and stomach, spleen, heart, and skeletal muscle. No enzyme activity was 

found in the feces. Although it has been postulated that methylation is a method of detoxification of 

hydrogen sulfide (a constituent of human flatus produced in the intestine) the extent to which the toxicity 

of exogenous hydrogen sulfide is attenuated by methylation is not known. 

The interaction of hydrogen sulfide with metalloproteins was postulated because the mechanism of 

toxicity for hydrogen sulfide is the inhibition of cytochrome oxidase and thus, inhibition of the electron 

transport system. It appears that hydrogen sulfide interacts with other metalloproteins and may represent 

a detoxification pathway in some instances (Beauchamp et al. 1984). Reduction of disulfide bridges by 

hydrogen sulfide was suggested by Smith and Abbanat (1966), who found that mice were protected from 

lethal concentrations of hydrogen sulfide by the administration of oxidized glutathione. This protection 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 105 

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was not afforded by the administration of reduced glutathione. The study authors believed that the 

disulfide linkage of the oxidized glutathione interacted with the hydrosulfide, which prevented the 

reaction of sulfide with other sites (Smith and Abbanat 1966). This is attributed to the polarizability of 

the disulfide bond. The nucleophilic sulfhydryl group of hydrogen sulfide reacts with the δ+ of the 

disulfide bond, thus converting it to a less toxic product. 

No studies were located regarding metabolism in humans or animals after oral, dermal, or other routes of 

exposure to hydrogen sulfide. 

Carbonyl Sulfide. There are limited data on the metabolism of carbonyl sulfide. In vitro studies 

demonstrated that carbonyl sulfide was primarily metabolized by carbonic anhydrase to form hydrogen 

sulfide and thiosulfate (Chengelis and Neal 1979). Pre-exposure to acetazolamide (a carbonic anhydrase 

inhibitor) resulted in a decrease in mortality in rats exposed via intraperitoneal injection to a lethal dose of 

carbonyl sulfide (Chengelis and Neal 1980). There is also in vitro evidence that carbonyl sulfide is 

metabolized by the mixed-function oxidase enzyme system to carbon dioxide (Chengelis and Neal 1979; 

Dalvi et al. 1975). However, the metabolism was not inhibited by the cytochrome P-450 monooxygenase 

inhibitors (SKF 525-A, 4-methylpyrazole, metyrapone) or substrate (carbon disulfide) (Chengelis and 

Neal 1979). 

3.4.4 Elimination and Excretion 

No information was located on the elimination and excretion of carbonyl sulfide. 

3.4.4.1 Inhalation Exposure 

Hydrogen Sulfide. The major metabolic pathway for hydrogen sulfide in the body is oxidation of sulfide 

to sulfate, with the sulfate being excreted in the urine (Beauchamp et al. 1984). Thiosulfate excretion was 

measured in volunteers exposed to 8, 18, or 30 ppm of hydrogen sulfide for 30–45 minutes and compared 

to measurements in unexposed individuals at a pelt processing plant (Kangas and Savolainen 1987). The 

study did not report the summary results of all exposed individuals; however, data from one individual 

exposed to 18 ppm hydrogen sulfide for 30 minutes found urinary thiosulfate concentrations of 

approximately 2, 4, 7, 30, and 5 μM/mM creatinine at 1, 2, 5, 15, and 17 hours postexposure, respectively. 

The highest urinary thiosulfate levels among exposed individuals occurred 15 hours after exposure and 

dropped to control levels by 17 hours postexposure. 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 106 

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Kage et al. (1992) evaluated sulfide and thiosulfate levels in the blood and urine of Japanese white rabbits 

exposed to 100–200 ppm for 60 minutes and concluded that thiosulfate was a better marker for exposure 

since it could be detected immediately in the blood, but also was detectable in the urine 24 hours after 

exposure. In the blood, thiosulfate levels decreased from 0.061 μM/mL immediately following exposure 

to an undetectable amount after 4 hours (Kage et al. 1992). In urine samples from these same animals, 

thiosulfate levels were highest (1.2 μM/mL) 1–2 hours after exposure, but were still detectable after 

24 hours of exposure at a slightly higher level than that of controls (Kage et al. 1992). 

3.4.4.2 Oral Exposure 

No studies were located regarding excretion in humans or animals after oral exposure to hydrogen sulfide. 

3.4.4.3 Dermal Exposure 

Hydrogen Sulfide. No studies were located regarding excretion in humans after dermal exposure to 

hydrogen sulfide. 

Excretion of hydrogen sulfide was documented after dermal exposure in rabbits. The trunk fur of rabbits 

was clipped and left intact or abraded for exposure to hydrogen sulfide gas (unknown concentrations) for 

1.5–2 hours (Laug and Draize 1942). Evidence for the excretion of hydrogen sulfide by the rabbits was a 

sulfide reaction of the expired air with lead acetate paper (Laug and Draize 1942). Sulfides in the expired 

air were noted in one rabbit with intact skin after 7 minutes of exposure. This study was limited by the 

lack of measurement of exposure concentrations and the small number of animals used. 

3.4.5 Physiologically Based Pharmacokinetic (PBPK)/Pharmacodynamic (PD) Models 

Physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) models use mathematical descriptions of the uptake and 

disposition of chemical substances to quantitatively describe the relationships among critical biological 

processes (Krishnan et al. 1994). PBPK models are also called biologically based tissue dosimetry 

models. PBPK models are increasingly used in risk assessments, primarily to predict the concentration of 

potentially toxic moieties of a chemical that will be delivered to any given target tissue following various 

combinations of route, dose level, and test species (Clewell and Andersen 1985). Physiologically based 

pharmacodynamic (PBPD) models use mathematical descriptions of the dose-response function to 

quantitatively describe the relationship between target tissue dose and toxic end points. 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 107 

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PBPK/PD models refine our understanding of complex quantitative dose behaviors by helping to 

delineate and characterize the relationships between: (1) the external/exposure concentration and target 

tissue dose of the toxic moiety, and (2) the target tissue dose and observed responses (Andersen and 

Krishnan 1994; Andersen et al. 1987). These models are biologically and mechanistically based and can 

be used to extrapolate the pharmacokinetic behavior of chemical substances from high to low dose, from 

route to route, between species, and between subpopulations within a species. The biological basis of 

PBPK models results in more meaningful extrapolations than those generated with the more conventional 

use of uncertainty factors. 

The PBPK model for a chemical substance is developed in four interconnected steps: (1) model 

representation, (2) model parameterization, (3) model simulation, and (4) model validation (Krishnan and 

Andersen 1994). In the early 1990s, validated PBPK models were developed for a number of 

toxicologically important chemical substances, both volatile and nonvolatile (Krishnan and Andersen 

1994; Leung 1993). PBPK models for a particular substance require estimates of the chemical substancespecific physicochemical parameters, and species-specific physiological and biological parameters. The 

numerical estimates of these model parameters are incorporated within a set of differential and algebraic 

equations that describe the pharmacokinetic processes. Solving these differential and algebraic equations 

provides the predictions of tissue dose. Computers then provide process simulations based on these 

solutions. 

The structure and mathematical expressions used in PBPK models significantly simplify the true 

complexities of biological systems. However, if the uptake and disposition of the chemical substance(s) 

are adequately described, this simplification is desirable because data are often unavailable for many 

biological processes. A simplified scheme reduces the magnitude of cumulative uncertainty. The 

adequacy of the model is, therefore, of great importance, and model validation is essential to the use of 

PBPK models in risk assessment. 

PBPK models improve the pharmacokinetic extrapolations used in risk assessments that identify the 

maximal (i.e., the safe) levels for human exposure to chemical substances (Andersen and Krishnan 1994). 

PBPK models provide a scientifically sound means to predict the target tissue dose of chemicals in 

humans who are exposed to environmental levels (for example, levels that might occur at hazardous waste 

sites) based on the results of studies where doses were higher or were administered in different species. 

Figure 3-4 shows a conceptualized representation of a PBPK model. 
 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 108 

3. HEALTH EFFECTS 

Figure 3-4. Conceptual Representation of a Physiologically Based
 

Pharmacokinetic (PBPK) Model for a 

Hypothetical Chemical Substance
 

Lungs 

Liver 

Fat 

Slowly 

perfused 

tissues 

Richly 

perfused 

tissues 

Kidney 

Skin 

V 

E 

N 

O 

U 

S 

B 

L 

O 

O 

D 

A 

R 

T 

E 

R 

I 

A 

L 

B 

L 

O 

O 

D 

Vmax Km 

Ingestion 

Inhaled chemical Exhaled chemical 

GI 

Tract 

Feces 

Urine

 Chemicals in air 

contacting skin 

Source: Krishnan et al. 1994 

Note: This is a conceptual representation of a physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) model for a 

hypothetical chemical substance. The chemical substance is shown to be absorbed via the skin, by inhalation, or by 

ingestion, metabolized in the liver, and excreted in the urine or by exhalation. 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 109 

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If PBPK models for hydrogen sulfide and carbonyl sulfide exist, the overall results and individual models 

are discussed in this section in terms of their use in risk assessment, tissue dosimetry, and dose, route, and 

species extrapolations. 

No PBPK models have been developed for hydrogen sulfide or carbonyl sulfide. 

3.5 MECHANISMS OF ACTION 

3.5.1 Pharmacokinetic Mechanisms 

Hydrogen Sulfide. Hydrogen sulfide is primarily absorbed through the lungs. It can also be absorbed 

through the gastrointestinal tract and the skin. Hydrogen sulfide is widely distributed in the body after 

inhalation exposure. Based on analyses of tissues from humans who died after accidental exposure, 

sulfides have been detected in the liver, blood, brain, lungs, spleen, and kidneys. Hydrogen sulfide is 

metabolized by oxidation, methylation, and reaction with metalloproteins or disulfide-containing proteins. 

The major metabolic pathway for detoxification of hydrogen sulfide is oxidation of the sulfide to sulfate 

in the liver. Hydrogen sulfide is excreted primarily as sulfate in the urine. 

Carbonyl Sulfide. No information was located on the pharmacokinetic mechanisms of carbonyl sulfide. 

3.5.2 Mechanisms of Toxicity 

Hydrogen Sulfide. Exposure to hydrogen sulfide at concentrations of 500 ppm and greater causes an 

initial increase in the rate of respiration as a result of the stimulation of the carotid bodies (chemosensors 

associated with ventilatory control) (Ammann 1986). Under normal conditions, these chemosensors 

stimulate ventilation of the lung during extreme cases in which a significant decrease in the partial 

pressure of oxygen in the arterial blood traveling to the head occurs (Ammann 1986). This action results 

in an increase in the number of impulses originating from the chemosensors to the respiratory center in 

the brain. The rate and depth of ventilation increases to the point of hyperpnea (rapid, deep breathing). 

Direct inhibition of cellular enzymes has been postulated as one of many underlying mechanisms of 

toxicity of hydrogen sulfide (Beauchamp et al. 1984; Deng 1992). In particular, cytochrome oxidase, an 

enzyme involved in cellular oxidative processes and energy production, has been implicated. Inhibition 

of cytochrome oxidase is believed to disrupt the electron transport chain and to significantly impair 

oxidative metabolism leading to anaerobic metabolism, severely decreased ATP production with curtailed 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 110 

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cellular energy generation, and the generation of lactic acid. Nervous and cardiac tissues (which have the 

highest oxygen demand) are especially sensitive to the disruption of oxidative metabolism (Ammann 

1986). In the central nervous system, this effect may result in death from respiratory arrest. 

Inhibition of cytochrome oxidase by hydrogen sulfide is similar to that of cyanide (Smith and Gosselin 

1979). Although the suggestion has been frequently made that the effects of hydrogen sulfide on nervous 

tissue are (as with cyanide) simply due to inhibition of oxidative metabolism, recent authors suggest that 

this is not the case. Reiffenstein et al. (1992) examined this issue and concluded that while exposure to 

hydrogen sulfide and anoxic conditions arrive at the same end point, there are pharmacological 

dissimilarities. Baldelli et al. (1993) investigated the mechanism of toxicity associated with hydrogen 

sulfide exposure (achieved by intravenous injection of sodium sulfide) and concluded that it resulted not 

from a direct toxicity on central nervous system neurons (i.e., a ‘cerebral necrosis’ due to poisoning of 

mitochondria respiration), but rather, from an indirect effect associated with a profound hypotension most 

likely due to cardiotoxicity. These authors emphasized the importance of immediate cardiopulmonary 

resuscitation as a way to prevent the delayed neurotoxicity associated with hydrogen sulfide 

“knockdown” exposures. 

An electrophysiological study of the effects of hydrogen sulfide on membrane and synaptic properties of 

dorsal raphe serotonergic cells in an in vitro rat brain-stem slice preparation has elucidated a possible 

mechanism of neurotoxicity of hydrogen sulfide (Kombian et al. 1993). These neurons are considered to 

play an important role in central nervous system control of respiratory rhythm. Hydrogen sulfide has 

been shown to produce two reversible, concentration-dependent effects on the resting membrane 

properties of the dorsal raphe neurons. Some neurons (14%) responded to hydrogen sulfide with an 

outward current accompanied by an increase in conductance, while 39% of the neurons responded with a 

rapid-onset depolarization corresponding to a weakly voltage-dependent inward current showing little or 

no change in conductance. In addition, 30% of the neurons displayed both types of responses. Finally, 

18% of the neurons were unresponsive to hydrogen sulfide. The outward current induced by hydrogen 

sulfide was demonstrated to be caused by an elevated conductance to potassium; whereas the hydrogen 

sulfide-induced inward current was carried by calcium ions. However, the mechanism of calcium ion 

entry is not clear. 

Hydrogen sulfide was shown to inhibit, in a concentration-dependent fashion, all components of the 

complex evoked synaptic responses of the dorsal raphe serotonergic neurons (Kombian et al. 1993). This 

effect was rapid, reversible, and involved both pre- and postsynaptic mechanisms. Similar effects of 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 111 

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hydrogen sulfide on brain hippocampal CA1 neurons have been reported. The electrophysiological 

effects of hydrogen sulfide are comparable to those elicited by anoxia. The neuronal action of hydrogen 

sulfide may involve an interaction with free thiols and disulfide bonds present in most membrane 

proteins. Collectively, the electrophysiology data suggest a possible role of the effects of hydrogen 

sulfide on synaptic and membrane properties of the dorsal raphe serotonergic neurons of the brain stem in 

the cessation of respiratory drive following acute hydrogen sulfide exposure. 

Inhibition of monoamine oxidase has been proposed as a possible mechanism underlying the hydrogen 

sulfide–mediated disruption of neurotransmission in brain stem nuclei controlling respiration (Warenycia 

et al. 1989). Administration of sodium hydrosulfide (an alkali salt of hydrogen sulfide) has been shown 

to increase brain catecholamine and serotonin levels in rats. It has also been suggested that persulfide 

formation resulting from sulfide interaction with tissue cystine and cystinyl peptides may underlie some 

aspects of hydrogen sulfide neurotoxicity, including inhibition of monoamine oxidase (Warenycia et al. 

1990). 

Carbonyl Sulfide. No information was located on the mechanisms of carbonyl sulfide toxicity. 

3.5.3 Animal-to-Human Extrapolations 

Hydrogen Sulfide. The toxicokinetic disposition of hydrogen sulfide in humans is not understood. 

However, available toxicity and toxicokinetic data indicate that hydrogen sulfide can be readily absorbed 

through the lung and (to a lesser and clinically insignificant extent) through the gastrointestinal tract and 

skin. Although the metabolism of hydrogen sulfide has been characterized in animals, there are limited 

data to suggest that the metabolism of hydrogen sulfide may be in part similar in humans. For instance, 

human data indicate that hydrogen sulfide is oxidized to sulfate and thiosulfate and excreted in the urine. 

Neurotoxicity induced by hydrogen sulfide has been observed in experimental animals and humans. 

Schroeter and associates have used a toxicokinetic-driven computational fluid dynamics model to 

quantitatively predict hydrogen sulfide tissue doses in rats and humans (Schroeter et al. 2006a, 2006b). 

The computational fluid dynamics model is based on anatomically accurate representations of the 

geometry of the rat and human nasal cavities and rat nasal flux (uptake of hydrogen sulfide by the nasal 

tissue). Using the model, Schroeter et al. (2006a) predicted hydrogen sulfide dosimetry in the human 

nasal passage and derived regression equations that predicted the maximum and 99th percentile flux 

values in the human olfactory region at hydrogen sulfide concentrations ranging from 1 to 50 ppm. 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 112 

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Carbonyl Sulfide. No human data for carbonyl sulfide were identified. There are limited data to 

compare the toxicity of carbonyl sulfide in different animal species since most of the toxicity studies 

examined rats. In rabbits, 17% mortality was observed following continuous exposure to 54 ppm for 

5 days (Hugod 1981; Hugod and Astrup 1980; Kamstrup and Hugod 1979). The lowest lethal 

concentration in rats was 600 ppm; at this concentration, rats exposed 6 hours/day for 2 days were 

sacrificed in moribund condition (Morgan et al. 2004). No deaths were observed in rats exposed to 

500 ppm 6 hours/day, 5 days/week for 12 exposures (Morgan et al. 2004). The highest nonlethal 

concentration and the lethal concentration in rats adjusted for intermittent exposure (6 hours/24 hours) are 

125 and 150 ppm, respectively. Although the lethal concentration in rabbits is lower than the highest 

nonlethal concentration in rats, the two studies are not directly comparable due to the differences in 

exposure duration. In the absence of information to the contrary, it is assumed that the rat is a suitable 

model for human toxicity to carbonyl sulfide. 

3.6 TOXICITIES MEDIATED THROUGH THE NEUROENDOCRINE AXIS 

Recently, attention has focused on the potential hazardous effects of certain chemicals on the endocrine 

system because of the ability of these chemicals to mimic or block endogenous hormones. Chemicals 

with this type of activity are most commonly referred to as endocrine disruptors. However, appropriate 

terminology to describe such effects remains controversial. The terminology endocrine disruptors, 

initially used by Thomas and Colborn (1992), was also used in 1996 when Congress mandated the EPA to 

develop a screening program for “...certain substances [which] may have an effect produced by a 

naturally occurring estrogen, or other such endocrine effect[s]...”. To meet this mandate, EPA convened a 

panel called the Endocrine Disruptors Screening and Testing Advisory Committee (EDSTAC), and in 

1998, the EDSTAC completed its deliberations and made recommendations to EPA concerning endocrine 

disruptors. In 1999, the National Academy of Sciences released a report that referred to these same types 

of chemicals as hormonally active agents. The terminology endocrine modulators has also been used to 

convey the fact that effects caused by such chemicals may not necessarily be adverse. Many scientists 

agree that chemicals with the ability to disrupt or modulate the endocrine system are a potential threat to 

the health of humans, aquatic animals, and wildlife. However, others think that endocrine-active 

chemicals do not pose a significant health risk, particularly in view of the fact that hormone mimics exist 

in the natural environment. Examples of natural hormone mimics are the isoflavinoid phytoestrogens 

(Adlercreutz 1995; Livingston 1978; Mayr et al. 1992). These chemicals are derived from plants and are 

similar in structure and action to endogenous estrogen. Although the public health significance and 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 113 

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descriptive terminology of substances capable of affecting the endocrine system remains controversial, 

scientists agree that these chemicals may affect the synthesis, secretion, transport, binding, action, or 

elimination of natural hormones in the body responsible for maintaining homeostasis, reproduction, 

development, and/or behavior (EPA 1997). Stated differently, such compounds may cause toxicities that 

are mediated through the neuroendocrine axis. As a result, these chemicals may play a role in altering, 

for example, metabolic, sexual, immune, and neurobehavioral function. Such chemicals are also thought 

to be involved in inducing breast, testicular, and prostate cancers, as well as endometriosis (Berger 1994; 

Giwercman et al. 1993; Hoel et al. 1992). 

No studies were identified on the potential for hydrogen sulfide or carbonyl sulfide to disrupt the function 

of the neuro-endocrine axis. 

3.7 CHILDREN’S SUSCEPTIBILITY 

This section discusses potential health effects from exposures during the period from conception to 

maturity at 18 years of age in humans, when all biological systems will have fully developed. Potential 

effects on offspring resulting from exposures of parental germ cells are considered, as well as any indirect 

effects on the fetus and neonate resulting from maternal exposure during gestation and lactation. 

Relevant animal and in vitro models are also discussed. 

Children are not small adults. They differ from adults in their exposures and may differ in their 

susceptibility to hazardous chemicals. Children’s unique physiology and behavior can influence the 

extent of their exposure. Exposures of children are discussed in Section 6.6, Exposures of Children. 

Children sometimes differ from adults in their susceptibility to hazardous chemicals, but whether there is 

a difference depends on the chemical (Guzelian et al. 1992; NRC 1993). Children may be more or less 

susceptible than adults to health effects, and the relationship may change with developmental age 

(Guzelian et al. 1992; NRC 1993). Vulnerability often depends on developmental stage. There are 

critical periods of structural and functional development during both prenatal and postnatal life, and a 

particular structure or function will be most sensitive to disruption during its critical period(s). Damage 

may not be evident until a later stage of development. There are often differences in pharmacokinetics 

and metabolism between children and adults. For example, absorption may be different in neonates 

because of the immaturity of their gastrointestinal tract and their larger skin surface area in proportion to 

body weight (Morselli et al. 1980; NRC 1993); the gastrointestinal absorption of lead is greatest in infants 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 114 

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and young children (Ziegler et al. 1978). Distribution of xenobiotics may be different; for example, 

infants have a larger proportion of their bodies as extracellular water, and their brains and livers are 

proportionately larger (Altman and Dittmer 1974; Fomon 1966; Fomon et al. 1982; Owen and Brozek 

1966; Widdowson and Dickerson 1964). The fetus/infant has an immature (developing) blood-brain 

barrier that past literature has often described as being leaky and poorly intact (Costa et al. 2004). 

However, current evidence suggests that the blood-brain barrier is anatomically and physically intact at 

this stage of development, and the restrictive intracellular junctions that exist at the blood-CNS interface 

are fully formed, intact, and functionally effective (Saunders et al. 2008, 2012). 

However, during development of the blood-brain barrier, there are differences between fetuses/infants and 

adults which are toxicologically important. These differences mainly involve variations in physiological 

transport systems that form during development (Ek et al. 2012). These transport mechanisms (influx and 

efflux) play an important role in the movement of amino acids and other vital substances across the 

blood-brain barrier in the developing brain; these transport mechanisms are far more active in the 

developing brain than in the adult. Because many drugs or potential toxins may be transported into the 

brain using these same transport mechanisms—the developing brain may be rendered more vulnerable 

than the adult. Thus, concern regarding possible involvement of the blood-brain barrier with enhanced 

susceptibility of the developing brain to toxins is valid. It is important to note however, that this potential 

selective vulnerability of the developing brain is associated with essential normal physiological 

mechanisms; and not because of an absence or deficiency of anatomical/physical barrier mechanisms. 

The presence of these unique transport systems in the developing brain of the fetus/infant is intriguing; as 

it raises a very important toxicological question as to whether these mechanisms provide protection for 

the developing brain or do they render it more vulnerable to toxic injury. Each case of chemical exposure 

should be assessed on a case-by-case basis. Research continues into the function and structure of the 

blood-brain barrier in early life (Kearns et al. 2003; Saunders et al. 2012; Scheuplein et al. 2002). 

Many xenobiotic metabolizing enzymes have distinctive developmental patterns. At various stages of 

growth and development, levels of particular enzymes may be higher or lower than those of adults, and 

sometimes unique enzymes may exist at particular developmental stages (Komori et al. 1990; Leeder and 

Kearns 1997; NRC 1993; Vieira et al. 1996). Whether differences in xenobiotic metabolism make the 

child more or less susceptible also depends on whether the relevant enzymes are involved in activation of 

the parent compound to its toxic form or in detoxification. There may also be differences in excretion, 

particularly in newborns who all have a low glomerular filtration rate and have not developed efficient 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 115 

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tubular secretion and resorption capacities (Altman and Dittmer 1974; NRC 1993; West et al. 1948). 

Children and adults may differ in their capacity to repair damage from chemical insults. Children also 

have a longer remaining lifetime in which to express damage from chemicals; this potential is particularly 

relevant to cancer. 

Certain characteristics of the developing human may increase exposure or susceptibility, whereas others 

may decrease susceptibility to the same chemical. For example, although infants breathe more air per 

kilogram of body weight than adults breathe, this difference might be somewhat counterbalanced by their 

alveoli being less developed, which results in a disproportionately smaller surface area for alveolar 

absorption (NRC 1993). 

Hydrogen Sulfide. Although there is a fair amount of data on the toxicity of hydrogen sulfide in humans, 

there is very little information to judge the impacts of exposure to hydrogen sulfide in infants and 

children. In adults, exposure to high concentrations of hydrogen sulfide can result in unconsciousness 

followed by an apparent complete recovery in some individuals. At lower exposure levels, exposure to 

hydrogen sulfide can result in less severe neurological (e.g., incoordination, poor memory, olfactory 

impairment) and respiratory symptoms. Animal data suggest that the respiratory tract, particularly the 

nasal olfactory epithelium, may be the most sensitive target following hydrogen sulfide exposure. It is 

likely that similar toxicological effects might be seen in children. 

Using computational fluid dynamics modeling, Schroeter et al. (2010) evaluated whether differences in 

nasal anatomy and ventilation between adults and children would affect hydrogen sulfide dosimetry in the 

olfactory region of the nasal cavity (see Section 3.5.3 for more information on the computational fluid 

dynamics model). Using data for five adults and two children, the study found that the interindividual 

differences in hydrogen sulfide uptake was <1.2. However, since the two children were 7 and 8 years of 

age, the study did not address potential differences in a wide range of childhood ages. 

Available human data suggest that maternal or paternal exposure may increase the risk of spontaneous 

abortions (Hemminki and Niemi 1982; Xu et al. 1998). However, co-exposure to other chemicals 

precludes establishing a causal relationship from these data. Animal studies did not find structural 

anomalies, developmental delays, alterations in performance on developmental neurobehavioral tests, or 

alterations in brain histology in the offspring of animals exposed to 80 ppm or lower hydrogen sulfide 

during gestation (Dorman et al. 2000; Hayden et al. 1990a; Saillenfait et al. 1989). In contrast, alterations 

in Purkinje cells (Hannah et al. 1990), brain amino acid levels (Hannah et al. 1989), and neurotransmitter 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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levels (Skrajny et al. 1992) have been observed in rat offspring exposed to low levels (20–75 ppm) of 

hydrogen sulfide during gestation. However, the toxicological significance of these alterations in the 

absence of alterations in neurobehavioral performance is not known. 

Carbonyl Sulfide. No information was located to evaluate children’s susceptibility to carbonyl sulfide. 

3.8 BIOMARKERS OF EXPOSURE AND EFFECT 

Biomarkers are broadly defined as indicators signaling events in biologic systems or samples. They have 

been classified as markers of exposure, markers of effect, and markers of susceptibility (NAS/NRC 

1989). 

A biomarker of exposure is a xenobiotic substance or its metabolite(s) or the product of an interaction 

between a xenobiotic agent and some target molecule(s) or cell(s) that is measured within a compartment 

of an organism (NAS/NRC 1989). The preferred biomarkers of exposure are generally the substance 

itself, substance-specific metabolites in readily obtainable body fluid(s), or excreta. However, several 

factors can confound the use and interpretation of biomarkers of exposure. The body burden of a 

substance may be the result of exposures from more than one source. The substance being measured may 

be a metabolite of another xenobiotic substance (e.g., high urinary levels of phenol can result from 

exposure to several different aromatic compounds). Depending on the properties of the substance (e.g., 

biologic half-life) and environmental conditions (e.g., duration and route of exposure), the substance and 

all of its metabolites may have left the body by the time samples can be taken. It may be difficult to 

identify individuals exposed to hazardous substances that are commonly found in body tissues and fluids 

(e.g., essential mineral nutrients such as copper, zinc, and selenium). Biomarkers of exposure to 

hydrogen sulfide and carbonyl sulfide are discussed in Section 3.8.1. 

Biomarkers of effect are defined as any measurable biochemical, physiologic, or other alteration within an 

organism that, depending on magnitude, can be recognized as an established or potential health 

impairment or disease (NAS/NRC 1989). This definition encompasses biochemical or cellular signals of 

tissue dysfunction (e.g., increased liver enzyme activity or pathologic changes in female genital epithelial 

cells), as well as physiologic signs of dysfunction such as increased blood pressure or decreased lung 

capacity. Note that these markers are not often substance specific. They also may not be directly 

adverse, but can indicate potential health impairment (e.g., deoxyribonucleic acid [DNA] adducts). 

Biomarkers of effect caused by hydrogen sulfide and carbonyl sulfide are discussed in Section 3.8.2. 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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A biomarker of susceptibility is an indicator of an inherent or acquired limitation of an organism's ability 

to respond to the challenge of exposure to a specific xenobiotic substance. It can be an intrinsic genetic or 

other characteristic or a preexisting disease that results in an increase in absorbed dose, a decrease in the 

biologically effective dose, or a target tissue response. If biomarkers of susceptibility exist, they are 

discussed in Section 3.10, Populations That Are Unusually Susceptible. 

3.8.1	 Biomarkers Used to Identify or Quantify Exposure to Hydrogen Sulfide and 

Carbonyl Sulfide 

Hydrogen Sulfide. The most frequently used biomarker of hydrogen sulfide exposure is urinary 

thiosulfate levels (Milby and Baselt 1999). Thiosulfate is an oxidation product of hydrogen sulfide 

metabolism and is not specific to hydrogen sulfide metabolism. Ingestion of food or water with high 

sulfur content can also increase urinary thiosulfate concentrations (Milby and Baselt 1999). An increase 

in urinary thiosulfate levels were observed in individuals exposed to 8, 18, or 30 ppm hydrogen sulfide 

for 30–45 minutes (Kangas and Savolainen 1987). The urinary thiosulfate levels peaked approximately 

15 hours after exposure. In a subject exposed to 18 ppm for 30 minutes, the peak urinary thiosulfate 

concentration at 15 hours was 30 μmol/mmol creatinine; 17 hours after exposure, the urinary thiosulfate 

levels were similar to non-exposed individuals (mean concentration of 2.9 μmol/mmol creatinine). A 

quantitative relationship between hydrogen sulfide exposure levels and urinary thiosulfate levels has not 

been established. 

Measurement of blood sulfide levels has also been proposed as a biomarker of exposure (Jappinen and 

Tenhunen 1990). This has limited clinical value because the blood samples must be collected within 

2 hours of exposure (Jappinen and Tenhunen 1990). As with urinary thiosulfate levels, a relationship 

between airborne hydrogen sulfide levels and blood sulfide levels has not been established; additionally, 

the biomarker is not specific to hydrogen sulfide. 

Jappinen and Tenhunen (1990) also investigated the use of alterations in blood heme metabolism as a 

possible biomarker of hydrogen sulfide exposure. The activities of the enzymes of heme synthesis 

(i.e., delta-aminolevulinic acid synthase (ALA-S) and heme synthase) were examined in 21 cases of acute 

hydrogen sulfide toxicity in Finnish pulp mill and oil refinery workers exposed to 20–200 ppm hydrogen 

sulfide for periods ranging from approximately 1 minute up to 3.5 hours. Several subjects lost 

consciousness for up to 3 minutes. The activity of delta-aminolevulinic acid synthase and heme synthase 

were decreased after exposure to hydrogen sulfide. However, the changes in heme metabolism are not 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 118 

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specific for hydrogen sulfide, and other sulfur-containing compounds (such as methyl mercaptan) can 

produce similar effects. 

Carbonyl Sulfide. No information on biomarkers of exposure was identified for carbonyl sulfide. 

3.8.2	 Biomarkers Used to Characterize Effects Caused by Hydrogen Sulfide and 

Carbonyl Sulfide 

Hydrogen Sulfide. Hydrogen sulfide-specific biomarkers of effect have not been identified. Potential 

biomarkers for neurological effects of hydrogen sulfide include indices of cortical, hippocampal, brain 

stem, basal ganglia, and diencephalon dysfunction. An oil-field worker who became unconscious 

following exposure to hydrogen sulfide had a diminished vibration sense, delayed visual reaction times, 

abnormal balance with eyes closed, slow blink reflex latency, impaired verbal and visual recall, and 

decreased cognitive performance (Kilburn 1993). Cortical function tests revealed deficits in verbal 

abstraction, attention, and short-term retention in a hydrogen sulfide-poisoned patient (Stine et al. 1976). 

A 5-year neuro-psychological re-examination of patients who lost consciousness after hydrogen sulfide 

exposure revealed neurological impairment (Tvedt et al. 1991b); memory and motor function were most 

affected. Such neurological effects are not specific for hydrogen sulfide and could indicate exposure to 

other neurotoxic substances. 

Carbonyl Sulfide. No information on biomarkers used to characterize effects caused by carbonyl sulfide 

was located. 

3.9 INTERACTIONS WITH OTHER CHEMICALS 

Hydrogen Sulfide. In a group of Belgian viscose rayon workers exposed to 0.14 or 6.4 ppm of hydrogen 

sulfide and at least 26 mg/m3 of carbon disulfide, the incidence of eye irritation was significantly higher 

in all hydrogen sulfide-exposed workers than in unexposed controls (Vanhoorne et al. 1995). Control for 

confounders such as cigarette smoke was not performed (Vanhoorne et al. 1995). Simultaneous exposure 

of Sprague-Dawley rats to 500 ppm of carbon disulfide and 50 ppm of hydrogen sulfide 5 days/week for 

25 weeks, had no interactive effect on sensory tail nerve conduction velocities (SNCV) or motor tail 

nerve conduction velocities (MNCV) (Gagnaire et al. 1986). Additionally, the amount of 2-thio-thiazolidine-4-carboxylic acid (a urinary metabolite of carbon disulfide excreted in urine after exposure to 

carbon disulfide) was unaffected by hydrogen sulfide exposure (Gagnaire et al. 1986). In a series of 

reproductive and developmental studies in which albino rats were exposed to hydrogen sulfide and carbon 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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disulfide, both pre- and postimplantational lethality as well as developmental anomalies of the genitourinary and skeletal systems were reported (Barilyak et al. 1975). However, in some cases, these effects 

occurred in conjunction with maternal toxicity. It is not clear whether the reported concentration 

(10 mg/m3

) to which the animals were exposed includes both hydrogen sulfide and carbon disulfide or 

represents individual concentrations of each chemical. 

There appears to be some evidence that ethanol can increase the effects of hydrogen sulfide. In six cases, 

less hydrogen sulfide was needed for toxic effects to be observed when workers had consumed alcohol 

16–24 hours earlier (Poda 1966). 

Much of the occupational data on hydrogen sulfide comes from studies of pulp and paper mill workers 

who were exposed to other compounds in addition to hydrogen sulfide. An increase in chronic or 

recurrent headache was noted in Finnish pulp workers who were exposed simultaneously to hydrogen 

sulfide, methyl mercaptans, and sulfur dioxide (Kangas et al. 1984). Peak concentrations of the chemicals 

(up to 20 ppm hydrogen sulfide) were believed to be responsible for the occurrence of the symptoms, 

rather than the lower mean concentrations. A respiratory survey of almost 2,000 Canadian pulp and paper 

mill workers did not show any increases in the prevalence of respiratory symptoms or pulmonary function 

abnormalities among exposed workers (Chan-Yeung et al. 1980). Mean exposure concentrations of 

toxicants measured in this study were 0.05 ppm hydrogen sulfide, 0.3 ppm sulfur dioxide, 8.3 ppm carbon 

monoxide, 0.8 ppm total particulates, and <0.05 ppm chlorine. 

No changes in body weight or microscopic changes in respiratory tract, eye, or visceral organs were noted 

in crossbred pigs inhaling 2 ppm of hydrogen sulfide and 50 ppm of ammonia continuously for 19 days 

when compared to controls (Curtis et al. 1975). The toxicity of hydrogen sulfide after dermal exposure 

was found to be enhanced by dermal exposure to ammonia (Laug and Draize 1942). 

Male Wistar rats were administered 330 or 660 mg/kg of ethanol intraperitoneally 30 minutes before 

being exposed to 800 ppm of hydrogen sulfide for a maximum of 20 minutes (which was a potentially 

fatal hydrogen sulfide exposure) (Beck et al. 1979). Mean times to unconsciousness in animals that were 

exposed to hydrogen sulfide with ethanol pretreatment at either of these dose levels were approximately 

35% less than times to unconsciousness without ethanol pretreatment (Beck et al. 1979). The clinical 

relevance of these findings using potentially fatal doses of both ethanol and hydrogen sulfide is unclear. 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Carbonyl Sulfide. No studies examining interactions of carbonyl sulfide with other chemicals were 

located. 

3.10 POPULATIONS THAT ARE UNUSUALLY SUSCEPTIBLE 

A susceptible population will exhibit a different or enhanced response to hydrogen sulfide and carbonyl 

sulfide than will most persons exposed to the same level of hydrogen sulfide and carbonyl sulfide in the 

environment. Factors involved with the increased susceptibility may include genetic makeup, age, health 

and nutritional status, and exposure to other toxic substances (e.g., cigarette smoke). These parameters 

result in reduced detoxification or excretion of hydrogen sulfide and carbonyl sulfide, or compromised 

function of organs affected by hydrogen sulfide and carbonyl sulfide. Populations who are at greater risk 

due to their unusually high exposure to hydrogen sulfide and carbonyl sulfide are discussed in 

Section 6.7, Populations with Potentially High Exposures. 

Hydrogen Sulfide. Some asthmatics exposed to 2 ppm hydrogen sulfide for 30 minutes had changes in 

pulmonary function tests suggestive of bronchial obstruction, although the exposed group as a whole did 

not show a statistically significant change in these parameters (Jappinen et al. 1990). Asthmatics have 

also been found to have a worsening of their condition upon exposure to odors (Shim and Williams 

1986). Although this has not been tested with exposure to hydrogen sulfide, it might be reasonably 

anticipated due to the malodorous quality of hydrogen sulfide gas. These findings suggest that some 

asthmatics may be more sensitive to hydrogen sulfide than the general population. 

Evidence from a number of studies suggests that hydrogen sulfide endogenously produced by bacteria in 

the digestive tract may play a role in the etiology of ulcerative colitis (Babidge et al. 1998; Pitcher and 

Cummings 1996; Roediger et al. 1997). It is unclear whether patients are affected due to the excess 

production of hydrogen sulfide or the inability to detoxify it as effectively as controls. Irrespective of 

mechanism, it seems likely that individuals already suffering from hydrogen sulfide-associated toxicity 

will be at higher risk from further hydrogen sulfide exposures. However, there are no data to support 

whether individuals with ulcerative colitis are more susceptible to the toxicity of hydrogen sulfide. 

Carbonyl Sulfide. No information was located which could be used to identify populations that may be 

unusually susceptible to the toxicity of carbonyl sulfide. 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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3.11 METHODS FOR REDUCING TOXIC EFFECTS 

This section will describe clinical practice and research concerning methods for reducing toxic effects of 

exposure to hydrogen sulfide and carbonyl sulfide. Because some of the treatments discussed may be 

experimental and unproven, this section should not be used as a guide for treatment of exposures to 

hydrogen sulfide and carbonyl sulfide. When specific exposures have occurred, poison control centers 

and medical specialists with experience and expertise in treating patients exposed or potentially exposed 

to hydrogen sulfide or carbonyl sulfide (i.e., board certified medical toxicologists, board certified 

occupational medicine physicians, pediatric environmental health medical specialists, etc.) should be 

consulted for medical advice. The following texts provide specific information about treatment following 

exposures to hydrogen sulfide: 

Hoffman RS, Howland MA, Lewin NA, et al., eds. 2015. Goldfrank’s toxicologic emergencies, 10th 

edition. New York, NY: McGraw Hill, 1606-1611. 

Caravati EM. 2004. Hydrogen sulfide. In: Dart RC, ed. Medical toxicology, 3rd edition; Philadelphia, 

PA: Lippincott Williams and Wilkins, 1169-1174. 

Guidotti TL. 2007. Hydrogen sulfide. In: Shannon MW, Borron SW, Burns MJ, Eds. Haddad and 

Winchester’s clinical management of poisoning and drug overdose, 4th edition. Philadelphia, PA: 

Saunders Elsevier, 1335-1342. 

3.11.1 Reducing Peak Absorption Following Exposure 

There are no specific methods available to reduce the absorption of hydrogen sulfide or carbonyl sulfide 

following exposure. Supportive treatment includes immediate removal from exposure and administration 

of high flow oxygen (Hoffman et al. 2015). 

3.11.2 Reducing Body Burden 

There are no known methods for reducing the body burden of hydrogen sulfide or carbonyl sulfide. 

3.11.3 Interfering with the Mechanism of Action for Toxic Effects 

Hydrogen Sulfide. Hydrogen sulfide inhibits mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase, resulting in disruption 

of the electron transport chain and impairing oxidative metabolism. Nervous and cardiac tissues, which 

have the highest oxygen demand (e.g., brain and heart), are especially sensitive to disruption of oxidative 

metabolism (Ammann 1986; Hall 1996). 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 122 

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Nitrites such as amyl and sodium nitrites have been used in the treatment of hydrogen sulfide poisoning, 

and the mechanism of therapeutic action may involve the prevention or reversal of cytochrome oxidase 

inhibition (Ellenhorn 1997; Hall 1996; Hoidal et al. 1986; Osbern and Crapo 1981; Reiffenstein et al. 

1992). It has been postulated that nitrites induce methemoglobin which inactivates sulfide thereby 

preventing cytochrome oxidase inhibition and reactivating aerobic respiration (Ellenhorn 1997; Hall 

1996). There is anecdotal evidence to suggest that this is an effective treatment in cases of exposure to 

high concentrations of hydrogen sulfide (Hall 1996; Hall and Rumack 1997; Hoidal et al. 1986; Stine et 

al. 1976). However, this treatment approach has only been shown to be effective if administered within 

the first minutes of exposure because the sulfide-methemoglobin complex breaks down rapidly in the 

presence of oxygen (Beck et al. 1981; Ellenhorn 1997; Hall 1996). Given the increased sensitivity of 

young children to the development of methemoglobinemia from exposure to nitrates/nitrites, care should 

be taken in using this approach. Consultation with a medical specialist with both expertise and 

experience treating pediatric patients exposed to hydrogen sulfide would be prudent. 

Oxygen treatment may be used after hydrogen sulfide poisoning, although its use is somewhat 

controversial (Ellenhorn 1997; Ravizza et al. 1982). Smith et al. (1976) found that oxygen was not useful 

as an antidote to hydrogen sulfide poisoning in mice. High intracellular oxygen pressure may result in 

nonenzymatic oxidation of cytochrome oxidase, and oxygen may release sulfide from cytochrome 

oxidase binding by a concentration effect (Ravizza et al. 1982). Hyperbaric oxygen therapy has been 

suggested for cases not responding to supportive care and nitrite treatment, but its clinical efficacy has not 

yet been determined (Ellenhorn 1997; Hall 1996). Several case studies have reported the successful use 

of hyperbaric oxygen treatment (Asif and Exline 2012; Belley et al. 2005; Lindenmann et al. 2010). A 

study in rats found that hyperbaric treatment for 100 minutes initiated within 20 minutes of termination of 

a 60-minute exposure to 300 ppm hydrogen sulfide did not significantly alter partial pressure of oxygen, 

as compared to animals similarly exposed and not undergoing hyperbaric treatment (Wu et al. 2011). 

However, it did result in a significant decrease in lung cytochrome c oxidase levels. Use of hyperbaric 

oxygen therapy for hydrogen sulfide toxicity in pediatric populations needs further investigation. 

In one case report (Schneider et al. 1998) where an individual suffered long-term (4 years later) 

neuropsychological sequelae from a “knock-down” exposure to hydrogen sulfide, treatment with two 

drugs, Ritalin and Cyclert, partially alleviated some of the observed deficits in cognitive function and 

general cognition; these drugs enhance dopaminergic functioning. However, more examples of the 

efficacy of this treatment are required. 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 123 

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Haouzi et al. (2015) showed that immediate intravenous administration of hydroxocobalamin could 

reduce the risk of hydrogen sulfide induced cardiac arrest in sedated, mechanically ventilated sheep 

infused with high doses of sodium hydrosulfide. The investigators noted that hydroxocobalamin was 

effective if administered 1–4 minutes after exposure cessation when free hydrogen sulfide was present in 

the blood; given this small treatment window, this may not be effective for human exposure scenarios. 

Sonobe et al. (2015) showed that administration of methylene blue decreased the risk of coma and 

increased survival in rats administered sodium hydrosulfide hydrate via intraperitoneal injection; the rats 

were injected twice with methylene blue several minutes after sodium hydrosulfide. Improvements in 

performance on neurobehavioral tests (open field and Morris water maze) were also observed in the 

methylene blue treated rats. 

Carbonyl Sulfide. No information on interfering with the mechanisms of carbonyl sulfide toxicity was 

located. 

3.12 ADEQUACY OF THE DATABASE 

Section 104(I)(5) of CERCLA, as amended, directs the Administrator of ATSDR (in consultation with the 

Administrator of EPA and agencies and programs of the Public Health Service) to assess whether 

adequate information on the health effects of hydrogen sulfide and carbonyl sulfide is available. Where 

adequate information is not available, ATSDR, in conjunction with the National Toxicology Program 

(NTP), is required to assure the initiation of a program of research designed to determine the health 

effects (and techniques for developing methods to determine such health effects) of hydrogen sulfide and 

carbonyl sulfide. 

The following categories of possible data needs have been identified by a joint team of scientists from 

ATSDR, NTP, and EPA. They are defined as substance-specific informational needs that if met would 

reduce the uncertainties of human health assessment. This definition should not be interpreted to mean 

that all data needs discussed in this section must be filled. In the future, the identified data needs will be 

evaluated and prioritized, and a substance-specific research agenda will be proposed. 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 124 

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3.12.1 Existing Information on Health Effects of Hydrogen Sulfide and Carbonyl Sulfide 

The existing data on health effects of inhalation, oral, and dermal exposure of humans and animals to 

hydrogen sulfide and carbonyl sulfide are summarized in Figures 3-5 and 3-6. The purpose of this figure 

is to illustrate the existing information concerning the health effects of hydrogen sulfide and carbonyl 

sulfide. Each dot in the figure indicates that one or more studies provide information associated with that 

particular effect. The dot does not necessarily imply anything about the quality of the study or studies, 

nor should missing information in this figure be interpreted as a “data need”. A data need, as defined in 

ATSDR’s Decision Guide for Identifying Substance-Specific Data Needs Related to Toxicological 

Profiles (ATSDR 1989), is substance-specific information necessary to conduct comprehensive public 

health assessments. Generally, ATSDR defines a data gap more broadly as any substance-specific 

information missing from the scientific literature. 

3.12.2 Identification of Data Needs 

Acute-Duration Exposure. 

Hydrogen Sulfide. There are numerous case reports of human fatalities (Adelson and Sunshine 1966; 

Ago et al. 2008; Allyn 1931; Bott and Dodd 2013; Breysse 1961; Christia-Lotter et al. 2007; Campanya et 

al. 1989; Deng and Chang 1987; Freireich 1946; Hagley and South; Knight and Presnell 2005; Maebashi 

et al. 2011; Morse et al. 1981; Osbern and Crapo 1981; Parra et al. 1991; Policastro and Otten 2007; 

Reedy et al. 2011; Yalamanachili and Smith 2008) or survivors who developed immediate as well as 

delayed neurological effects (Deng and Chang 1987; Kilburn 1993, 1997; Krekel 1964; McDonald and 

McIntosh 1951; Milby 1962; Schneider et al. 1998; Spolyar 1951) following acute-duration hydrogen 

sulfide inhalation exposure. Estimates of exposure concentrations were not often reported in these 

studies. Cardiac arrhythmia has also been reported in workers exposed to hydrogen sulfide (Krekel 

1964). Experimental exposure studies in which subjects were exposed to hydrogen sulfide for 15– 

120 minutes did not identify any respiratory or cardiovascular effects in healthy subjects at 5 or 10 ppm 

(Bhambhani and Singh 1991; Bhambhani et al. 1994, 1996a; Fiedler et al. 2008). Suggestive evidence of 

bronchial obstruction was observed in 2 of 10 asthmatics exposed to 2 ppm of hydrogen sulfide for 

30 minutes, although the group as a whole had no significant change in these parameters (Jappinen et al. 

1990). Additionally, studies are needed to assess whether asthmatic subjects are a sensitive 

subpopulation. Because hydrogen sulfide gas is an eye irritant (Ahlborg 1951; Luck and Kaye 1989), 

studies should monitor ocular effects. Additional studies of the delayed consequences of acute exposures 

are also needed. 
 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 125 

3. HEALTH EFFECTS 

Figure 3-5. Existing Information on Health Effects of Hydrogen Sulfide 

Death 

Acute 

Intermediate

Chronic 

Immunologic/Lymphoretic

Neurologic

Reproductive

Developmental

Genotoxic

Cancer 

Systemic 

Human 

Inhalation 

Oral 

Dermal 

Death 

Acute 

Intermediate

Chronic 

Immunologic/Lymphoretic

Neurologic

Reproductive

Developmental

Genotoxic

Cancer 

Systemic 

Animal 

Inhalation 

Oral 

Dermal 

Existing Studies 
 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 126 

3. HEALTH EFFECTS 

Figure 3-6. Existing Information on Health Effects of Carbonyl Sulfide 

Inhalation 

Oral 

Dermal 

Death 

Acute 

Intermediate

Chronic 

Immunologic/Lymphoretic

Neurologic

Reproductive

Developmental

Genotoxic

Cancer 

Systemic 

Human 

Inhalation 

Oral 

Dermal 

Death 

Acute 

Intermediate

Chronic 

Immunologic/Lymphoretic

Neurologic

Reproductive

Developmental

Genotoxic

Cancer 

Systemic 

Animal 

Existing Studies 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 127 

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Acute-duration inhalation studies of hydrogen sulfide in animals have reported death (Beck et al. 1979; 

Khan et al. 1990; Lopez et al. 1989; Nagata et al. 1990; Prior et al. 1988, 1990; Smith and Gosselin 1964; 

Tansy et al. 1981), respiratory (Brenneman et al. 2002; Green et al. 1991; Khan et al. 1990; Kohno et al. 

1991; Lopez et al. 1987, 1988a, 1988b; Prior et al. 1990), cardiovascular (Higuchi and Fukamachi 1977; 

Kohno et al. 1991; Kosmider et al. 1967), immunological/lymphoreticular (Khan et al. 1991), and 

neurological effects (Beck et al. 1979; Haider et al. 1980; Higuchi and Fukamachi 1977; Kosmider et al. 

1967; Lopez et al. 1988b; Struve et al. 2001). Additional acute-duration inhalation animal studies would 

be useful to further define any direct cardiovascular effects of hydrogen sulfide as opposed to those due to 

hypoxia. The available data on the acute toxicity of inhaled hydrogen sulfide were sufficient for 

derivation of an acute-duration inhalation MRL. 

Data are not sufficient for the development of an acute-duration oral MRL. The only oral study of 

hydrogen sulfide is a study in which a diarrheic digestive disorder was observed in pigs fed hydrogen 

sulfide at 15 mg/kg/day for "a few days" (Wetterau et al. 1964). Acute dermal exposure of animals has 

resulted in death (Laug and Draize 1942). In addition to a lack of route-specific toxicity data, insufficient 

pharmacokinetic data are available to support the identification of target organs across routes of exposure. 

However, although oral and dermal data regarding the effects of hydrogen sulfide are very limited, human 

exposure would be expected to be principally by inhalation. 

Carbonyl Sulfide. Death occurred following a single inhalation exposure in rats (DuPont 1981; 

Monsanto 1985a) or repeated inhalation exposures in rats (Morgan et al. 2004) and rabbits (Hugod 1981; 

Hugod and Astrup 1980; Kamstrup and Hugod 1979). Neurotoxicity (including overt signs of toxicity 

and histological alterations in the brain) was observed in rats exposed via inhalation once or up to 

12 times (Herr et al. 2007; Monsanto 1985b; Morgan et al. 2004; Morrison et al. 2009; Sills et al. 2004). 

Although these studies identified NOAELs and LOAELs and established dose-response relationships, the 

database was not considered adequate for derivation of an acute-duration inhalation MRL for carbonyl 

sulfide because there are insufficient data to determine whether neurotoxicity is the most sensitive end 

point. Additionally, studies that include examination of major tissues and organs are needed to determine 

if there are other sensitive targets of toxicity. 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 128 

3. HEALTH EFFECTS 

Intermediate-Duration Exposure. 

Hydrogen Sulfide. Intermediate-duration studies in humans are fairly limited and virtually all are 

complicated by exposures to other chemicals as well as rarely being accompanied with adequate exposure 

assessment. Additional epidemiologic studies (particularly prospective or case-control studies) of 

populations exposed environmentally to various levels of hydrogen sulfide (where other pollutants are 

monitored and ideally, do not vary) are needed. 

A series of 90-day inhalation studies in rats (CIIT 1983b, 1983c) reported significantly decreased body 

weights in Sprague-Dawley female rats at 80 ppm, but not in male Sprague-Dawley (CIIT 1983c) nor in 

either sex of F-344 rats (CIIT 1983b). Although CIIT (1983b, 1983c) did not report increases in the 

occurrence of histological lesions, a re-examination of the histological slides from this study (Dorman et 

al. 2004) found increases in the incidence of nasal (olfactory neuron loss) and lung (bronchiolar epithelial 

hypertrophy and hyperplasia) lesions at 30 ppm and higher. In a companion study with B6C3F1 mice, a 

significant increase in the incidence of inflammation of the nasal mucosa was observed at a dose level of 

80 ppm but not at 30.5 ppm. Brenneman et al. (2000) identified a NOAEL and LOAEL for nasal effects 

(loss of olfactory neurons) in Sprague-Dawley rats exposed to 10 and 30 ppm, respectively, for 10 weeks. 

Although use of the Brenneman et al. (2000) study as the basis of an intermediate-duration inhalation 

MRL was considered, the human equivalent concentration (HEC) of the NOAEL (5 ppm) was similar to 

LOAELs identified for respiratory effects in humans acutely exposed to hydrogen sulfide. Thus, the 

database was considered inadequate for derivation of an intermediate-duration inhalation MRL for 

hydrogen sulfide. 

No histopathological effects were found in respiratory tract tissues or organs when pigs were exposed to 

8.5 ppm hydrogen sulfide continuously for 17 days (Curtis et al. 1975). Additional effects reported in rats 

following inhalation exposure to hydrogen sulfide include increased glucose in lactating rats (Hayden et 

al. 1990a), increased liver cholesterol in female rats exposed during gestation and lactation (Hayden et al. 

1990b), and weight loss in pregnant rats (Saillenfait et al. 1989). 

The only oral study of hydrogen sulfide is a study in pigs in which decreased body weights were observed 

in pigs fed hydrogen sulfide in the diet at 6.7 mg/kg/day for 105 days (Wetterau et al. 1964). No effects 

were observed at a dose of 3.1 mg/kg/day. However, because this study lacks details and there are no 

supporting data, no intermediate-duration MRL was derived. Additional intermediate-duration oral 

studies of hydrogen sulfide are needed to provide support for this study. 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 129 

3. HEALTH EFFECTS 

No intermediate-duration dermal studies of hydrogen sulfide were identified. As significant human 

dermal exposure to hydrogen sulfide is unlikely, dermal exposure studies should not be a high priority. 

However, no pharmacokinetic data are available that might support the identification of target organs 

across routes of exposures in the absence of route-specific toxicity data. 

Carbonyl Sulfide. Studies examining the toxicity of inhaled carbonyl sulfide following intermediateduration exposure consist of a study in rabbits examining ultrastructural changes in the vascular system 

and heart (Hugod and Astrup 1980, Hugod 1981), a study examining morphological changes in the lungs, 

heart, and aorta of rabbits (Kamstup and Hugod 1979), several studies examining neurological end points 

(Herr et al. 2007; Morgan et al. 2004; Sills et al. 2004), and a reproductive toxicity study in male rats 

(Monsanto 1987). The animal studies clearly identify the nervous system and possibly the male 

reproductive system as targets of carbonyl sulfide toxicity. However, the lack of data from studies 

examining other major tissues and organs does not allow for the determination of the most sensitive 

targets of toxicity. Thus, an intermediate-duration inhalation MRL for carbonyl sulfide cannot be 

determined at this time. No oral or dermal exposure studies were identified. 

Chronic-Duration Exposure and Cancer. 

Hydrogen Sulfide. Studies of workers (Ahlborg 1951; Hessel et al. 1997; Richardson 1995), residents 

living in areas with high geothermal activity (Bates et al. 1997, 2002), residents living near paper mills 

(Haahtela et al. 1992; Jaakkola et al. 1990 Martttila et al. 1994a, 1994b, 1995; Partti-Pellinen et al. 1996), 

residents living near swine operations (Kilburn 2012; Schinasi et al. 2011), and residents living in other 

areas with high levels of hydrogen sulfide (Campagna et al. 2004; Carlsen et al. 2012; Legator et al. 2001) 

have reported increases in the occurrence of respiratory effects including irritation and alterations in lung 

function. Most of these studies have the common limitations of poorly reported exposure levels (or lack 

of monitoring data) and concomitant exposure to other compounds including mercaptans, sulfur dioxide, 

ammonia, and particulate matter. There was no increase in cancer incidence noted in a residential cohort 

study of persons living downwind from natural gas refineries (Schechter et al. 1989), but an increased risk 

of nasal cancers was found in a population residing in a location of high geothermal activity (Bates et al. 

1998). No studies have examined the chronic toxicity or carcinogenicity of hydrogen sulfide in 

laboratory animals. 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 130 

3. HEALTH EFFECTS 

Additional chronic-duration studies of hydrogen sulfide (including studies of the carcinogenic potential of 

hydrogen sulfide in humans and animals by any route of exposure) have not been performed. Follow-up 

epidemiological studies of populations environmentally exposed to hydrogen sulfide due to proximity of 

pulp mills, sour gas plants, or geothermal energy sources are needed, but only if they are accompanied by 

adequate exposure measurements. As limited genotoxicity studies suggest that hydrogen sulfide is 

unlikely to be a carcinogen, lifetime carcinogenicity studies in animals should not be a high priority. In 

the absence of route-specific toxicity data and route-specific pharmacokinetic data, it is not possible to 

identify target organs across routes of exposure. 

Carbonyl Sulfide. No human or animal studies have examined the chronic toxicity or carcinogenicity of 

carbonyl sulfide following inhalation, oral, or dermal exposure. Chronic-duration animal studies are 

needed to identify targets of toxicity, establish dose-response relationships, and to evaluate the 

carcinogenic potential of carbonyl sulfide. 

Genotoxicity. 

Hydrogen Sulfide. No mutagenicity was observed in Ames assays using Salmonella typhimurium strains 

TA97, TA98, and TA100 (with or without S9 liver fractions from male Syrian golden hamsters or 

Sprague-Dawley rats) (EPA 1984). Specific concentrations of hydrogen sulfide gas were limited because 

of its solubility in ethanol, which was the test solvent. The highest dose that could be obtained was 

1,750 μg/plate. Other studies using hydrogen sulfide in the gaseous state would be useful for testing 

higher doses. 

Carbonyl Sulfide. No genotoxicity studies were located for carbonyl sulfide. In vitro studies are needed 

to assess whether carbonyl sulfide is genotoxic. 

Reproductive Toxicity. 

Hydrogen Sulfide. The findings in two studies (Hemminki and Niemi 1982; Xu et al. 1998) that 

exposures to hydrogen sulfide are associated with an increased risk of spontaneous abortion warrant 

further investigation. A well-designed case-control study is needed in which exposure is well 

characterized in order to ascertain whether this is indeed an effect of concern or merely an anomaly. 

Additional epidemiologic studies of other reproductive effects would also be useful. No treatment-related 

histopathological changes were found in the male or female reproductive organs of rats (CIIT 1983b, 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 131 

3. HEALTH EFFECTS 

1983c) or mice (CIIT 1983a) exposed to hydrogen sulfide for 6 hours/day, 5 days/week for 90 days or in 

rats exposed to 80 ppm hydrogen sulfide 6 hours/day, 7 days/week for 60–70 days (Dorman et al. 2000). 

The Dorman et al. (2000) study also found no exposure-related alterations in fertility, late resorptions or 

stillbirths, litter size, or length of gestation. A multilitter or multigeneration study in several animal 

species after exposure to hydrogen sulfide by inhalation is needed to further evaluate the reproductive 

potential of hydrogen sulfide. 

Carbonyl Sulfide. Information on the reproductive toxicity of carbonyl sulfide is limited to a study in 

which male rats were exposed to inhaled carbonyl sulfide prior to mating with unexposed females 

(Monsanto 1987). The study reported a decrease in pregnancy rate. Additional studies are needed to 

determine the cause of the decreased pregnancy rate and to evaluate whether carbonyl sulfide affects 

female reproduction. 

Developmental Toxicity. 

Hydrogen Sulfide. No studies were located regarding developmental effects in humans following 

hydrogen sulfide exposure. 

Developmental effects were not observed in rats exposed to hydrogen sulfide by inhalation at 

concentrations that resulted in maternal body weight loss (Saillenfait et al. 1989), increased maternal 

blood glucose levels (Hayden et al. 1990a), or increased cholesterol content of the maternal liver (Hayden 

et al. 1990b). Purkinje cell path length in offspring of exposed rats was increased compared to controls 

(Hannah and Roth 1991). Changes in amino acid levels (Hannah et al. 1989, 1990) and serotonin and 

epinephrine levels (Skrajny et al. 1992) in the brain were found in the offspring of rats exposed by 

inhalation to hydrogen sulfide during gestation. No alterations in performance on neurobehavioral tests 

were observed in the offspring of rats exposed to up to 80 ppm 6 hours/day, 7 days/week during gestation 

and lactation (the pups were also exposed on postnatal days 5–18) (Dorman et al. 2000). Studies 

regarding the developmental toxicity of hydrogen sulfide following oral or dermal exposure were not 

located. 

Carbonyl Sulfide. No studies evaluating the potential developmental toxicity of carbonyl sulfide were 

located. Developmental toxicity studies are needed to assess whether the developing organism is a 

sensitive target; these studies should include neurodevelopmental toxicity testing since neurotoxicity is a 

sensitive end point in adults. 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 132 

3. HEALTH EFFECTS 

Immunotoxicity. 

Hydrogen Sulfide. Immunological effects infrequently observed after human hydrogen sulfide exposure 

appear to result from infection due to the aspiration or ingestion of manure or gastric contents (Osbern 

and Crapo 1981). No treatment-related histopathological changes were found in the spleen or lymph 

nodes of rats (CIIT 1983b, 1983c) or mice (CIIT 1983a) exposed to hydrogen sulfide for 6 hours/day, 

5 days/week for 90 days. Although the number of pulmonary alveolar macrophage cells was not 

influenced by hydrogen sulfide exposure, the number of viable cells was significantly decreased with 

exposure to 400 ppm (Khan et al. 1991). When pulmonary alveolar macrophage cells were treated with 

Zymosan to stimulate respiration rates, there was no stimulation of respiration in cells from animals 

exposed to 200 or 400 ppm of hydrogen sulfide for 4 hours (Khan et al. 1991). Immunological effects 

have not been studied in humans or animals following oral or dermal exposure to hydrogen sulfide. 

Additional studies of immune function in animals exposed to hydrogen sulfide by inhalation are needed. 

A bacterial and/or viral challenge study would be especially useful to determine whether exposure to 

hydrogen sulfide increases susceptibility to infection. 

Carbonyl Sulfide. No studies evaluating the potential immunotoxicity of carbonyl sulfide were located. 

Studies are needed to assess whether the immune system is a target of carbonyl sulfide toxicity. 

Neurotoxicity. 

Hydrogen Sulfide. The nervous system is a target organ for hydrogen sulfide. Effects of acute inhalation 

exposure in humans include nausea, headaches, delirium, disturbed equilibrium, poor memory, loss of 

consciousness, tremors, and convulsions (Arnold et al. 1985; Deng and Chang 1987; Krekel 1964; 

McDonald and McIntosh 1951; Milby 1962; Spolyar 1951). Acute effects observed in animals include 

fatigue, somnolence (Haider et al. 1980), and loss of consciousness (Kosmider et al. 1967). Limited data 

from chronically exposed workers indicate that loss of appetite, fatigue, poor memory, dizziness, and 

irritability may result (Ahlborg 1951; Krekel 1964). Studies in rats have shown decreases in performance 

of discriminated avoidance tasks after exposure to hydrogen sulfide (Higuchi and Fukamachi 1977). The 

potential neurotoxicity of hydrogen sulfide following oral or dermal exposures has not been characterized. 

The transplacental neurological effects of hydrogen sulfide exposure are unknown. There is no reason to 

suspect that the neurotoxic effects observed after hydrogen sulfide exposure are species-specific, and 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 133 

3. HEALTH EFFECTS 

insufficient data are available to determine whether effects are route-specific. Well-designed studies 

investigating neurotoxic effects in animals following oral or dermal exposure and chronic neurotoxic 

effects after inhalation exposure are needed to determine the effects that might be seen in exposed 

humans. Additionally, there is anecdotal evidence that some individuals experience permanent or 

persistent neurological symptoms (such as memory loss) after acute exposures to high concentrations of 

hydrogen sulfide. Studies are needed to confirm these reports and determine if acute exposure to 

hydrogen sulfide can result in permanent neurological damage. 

Carbonyl Sulfide. Several acute- and intermediate-duration studies have evaluated the neurotoxicity of 

carbonyl sulfide in rats. The effects ranged from severe signs of neurotoxicity (including ataxia and 

hypothermia) and necrosis and neuronal loss in the parietal cortex, thalamus, and other midbrain 

structures to impaired performance on neurophysiological tests and motor function tests (Herr et al. 2007; 

Monsanto 1985b; Morgan et al. 2004; Morrison et al. 2009; Sills et al. 2004). These studies have 

identified NOAEL and LOAEL values for neurotoxicity and the results demonstrate a steep doseresponse curve. Additional studies in different species would be useful in evaluating the relevance of the 

neurological effects observed in rats to humans. 

Epidemiological and Human Dosimetry Studies. 

Hydrogen Sulfide. Published reviews have addressed the duration of exposure and concentrations of 

hydrogen sulfide resulting in death and serious effects in humans (Beauchamp et al. 1984; EPA 1978; 

NIOSH 1977a; WHO 1981). Some chronic-duration epidemiological studies (Ahlborg 1951; Haahtela et 

al. 1992; Horton et al. 2009; Inserra et al. 2004; Jaakkola et al. 1990; Jappinen et al. 1990; Marttila et al. 

1994b; Schechter et al. 1989; Tenhunen et al. 1983) have identified approximate exposure concentrations, 

but exposure assessment was not sufficient to divide the study population into more than one exposure 

group. Other studies evaluating respiratory effects (Campagna et al. 2004; Carlsen et al. 2012; Dongo et 

al. 2012; Kilburn 2012; Kilburn et al. 2010; Legator et al. 2001; Marttila et al. 1994a, 1995; ParttiPellinen et al. 1996; Schinasi et al. 2011) or neurological effects (Bates et al. 1998; Farahat and Kishk 

2010; Kilburn 1997; Legator et al. 2001) have not measured hydrogen sulfide levels. Epidemiology 

studies examining the potential effects of chronic inhalation exposure to various hydrogen sulfide 

concentrations are needed. Additionally, studies are needed that control for exposure to other 

contaminants such as methyl mercaptan, methyl sulfides, sulfur dioxide, and particulate matter. There are 

known populations that have unusually high exposure to hydrogen sulfide. 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 134 

3. HEALTH EFFECTS 

Carbonyl Sulfide. No human studies examining the potential toxicity of carbonyl sulfide in humans were 

identified. Studies are needed in populations exposed to carbonyl sulfide to evaluate potential targets of 

toxicity. Because the animal studies suggest that the nervous system is a sensitive target, epidemiology 

studies should include neurobehavioral testing. 

Biomarkers of Exposure and Effect. 

Exposure 

Hydrogen Sulfide. Both blood sulfide concentrations (Jappinen and Tenhunen 1990) and urinary 

thiosulfate concentrations (Kage et al. 1992; Kangas and Savolainen 1987) have been proposed as 

indicators of hydrogen sulfide exposure. Obtaining background levels of blood sulfide in a population 

should not be problematic, although blood samples to determine sulfide concentrations must be obtained 

within 2 hours of exposure to hydrogen sulfide. Similarly, urinary thiosulfate levels can be obtained for 

the background population. Further study is needed to correlate airborne exposure concentrations with 

blood sulfide and thiosulfate levels. Additional alterations in heme synthesis enzymes (deltaaminolevulinic acid synthase and heme synthase) have been proposed as possible biomarkers of exposure 

(Jappinen and Tenhunen 1990). These effects are not specific for hydrogen sulfide, and further study is 

needed to correlate these effects with blood sulfide and urinary thiosulfate levels. 

Carbonyl Sulfide. There are no studies examining biomarkers of exposure to carbonyl sulfide, and such 

studies are needed. 

Effect 

Hydrogen Sulfide. No hydrogen-sulfide-specific biomarkers of effect have been identified. Neurological 

indices are also used as biomarkers of effect for hydrogen sulfide (Gaitonde et al. 1987; Kilburn 1993; 

Stine et al. 1976; Tvedt et al. 1991b). It is unlikely that a hydrogen-sulfide-specific biomarker of effect 

will be identified based on nonspecific effects that have been observed in humans and animals exposed to 

hydrogen sulfide and the mechanistic similarity between cyanide and hydrogen sulfide. Additional data 

are needed to identify a collection of symptoms that could reasonably characterize hydrogen sulfide 

exposure. 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 135 

3. HEALTH EFFECTS 

Carbonyl Sulfide. No studies examining specific biomarkers of effect were identified for carbonyl 

sulfide. 

Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism, and Excretion. 

Hydrogen Sulfide. Hydrogen sulfide is absorbed through the lungs and can be absorbed in minor 

quantities through the gastrointestinal tract and intact skin (Kohno et al. 1991; Laug and Draize 1942; 

Wetterau et al. 1964). Hydrogen sulfide is also produced endogenously in many tissues (e.g., liver, 

kidney, and heart) as a break-down product of cysteine metabolism. Thus, hydrogen sulfide is widely 

distributed in the body. Sulfides have been found in the heart, liver, blood, brain, lungs, spleen, and 

kidneys of humans who died after accidental inhalation exposure (Kohno et al. 1991). However, there are 

no studies that have tracked the quantitative absorption or endogenous production of hydrogen sulfide nor 

quantified the differences in its distribution in the various tissues to follow absorption of an external dose. 

No data are available on distribution after oral or dermal exposure to hydrogen sulfide. 

Hydrogen sulfide is metabolized through three pathways: oxidation, methylation, and reactions with 

metalloproteins or disulfide-containing proteins (Beauchamp et al. 1984). Although the major metabolic 

pathway for detoxification is oxidation of the sulfide to sulfate in the liver, methylation also serves to 

detoxify hydrogen sulfide (EPA 1987; Weisiger and Jakoby 1979). The major oxidation product of 

hydrogen sulfide is thiosulfate, which may be then converted to sulfate and excreted in the urine 

(Bartholomew et al. 1980; Kage et al. 1992; Kangas and Savolainen 1987). The primary location for the 

oxidation reaction is the liver (Bartholomew et al. 1980). 

The qualitative data on the absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion of hydrogen sulfide in 

humans and animals are well known; quantitative data are generally lacking. Additional studies in 

animals that provide quantitative toxicokinetic data are needed. 

Carbonyl Sulfide. There are very limited data on the toxicokinetics of carbonyl sulfide consisting of two 

studies that focused on its metabolism by carbonic anhydrase and the mixed function oxidase enzyme 

system (Chengelis and Neal 1979, 1980). More studies are needed evaluating the absorption, distribution, 

metabolism, and excretion of carbonyl sulfide. 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 136 

3. HEALTH EFFECTS

Comparative Toxicokinetics. 

Hydrogen Sulfide. PBPK models have not been developed to compare the toxicokinetics of hydrogen 

sulfide in humans and animals. Studies providing quantitative data necessary to develop PBPK models 

would be useful. 

Carbonyl Sulfide. There are currently insufficient data to characterize the toxicokinetics of carbonyl 

sulfide in any species; these data are needed for comparing the toxicokinetics across species. 

Methods for Reducing Toxic Effects. 

Hydrogen Sulfide. Other than removing the subject from exposure, there is no specific method to reduce 

the absorption of hydrogen sulfide. There are no known methods for reducing the body burden of 

hydrogen sulfide, although reducing the intake of sulfhydryl-containing amino acids has been shown to 

reduce endogenous production. Amyl and sodium nitrites have been used as antidotes for hydrogen 

sulfide poisoning. Oxygen treatment, which may result in nonenzymatic oxidation of cytochrome 

oxidase, may also be used in the treatment of hydrogen sulfide poisoning (Hall 1996; Ravizza et al. 1982). 

Several case reports discussed the beneficial use of hyperbaric oxygen treatment (Asif and Exline 2012; 

Belley et al. 2005; Lindenmann et al. 2010); however, a rat study found that it decreased cytochrome c 

oxidase levels but did not affect the partial pressure of oxygen (Wu et al. 2011). 

There is a need to develop an antidote for hydrogen sulfide poisoning, especially since it has a high 

knock-down potency. Additional research into the safe use of oxygen as an antidote for hydrogen sulfide 

poisoning is needed. Studies examining methods to enhance the oxidation or methylation of hydrogen 

sulfide to increase elimination might also be useful. Further studies of the efficacy of drugs such as 

Retalin and Cyclert to treat the long-term neuropsychological effects of a knock-down exposure are 

needed. 

Carbonyl Sulfide. No studies have examined methods for reducing the toxic effects of carbonyl sulfide. 

The available data are insufficient to characterize the toxicity of carbonyl sulfide. There is a potential for 

human exposure to carbonyl sulfide and studies designed to evaluate methods for reducing toxic effects 

should be done after the critical targets of toxicity and modes of action have been identified. 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 137 

3. HEALTH EFFECTS 

Children’s Susceptibility. Data needs relating to both prenatal and childhood exposures and 

developmental effects (expressed either prenatally or during childhood) are discussed in detail in the 

Developmental Toxicity subsection above. 

Hydrogen Sulfide. There is only limited information available by which to assess the potential toxicity of 

hydrogen sulfide to children and infants. Several case reports suggest that adolescents respond much like 

adults to high dose acute exposures (Allyn 1931; Hagley and South 1983; Morse et al. 1981). However, 

there is no information with which to determine whether the long-term consequences of such exposures 

differ for adolescents versus adults, nor is there any information on the effects of hydrogen sulfide 

exposures in children and very little information on infants. Several developmental toxicity studies 

indicated that the exposure of pregnant rats and their pups to hydrogen sulfide resulted in structural and 

biochemical changes in the brain (Hannah and Roth 1991; Hannah et al. 1989, 1991). Subsequent work 

showed that many of the biochemical changes were transient; however, no studies were found that 

evaluated the behavioral consequences of these changes. Thus, a variety of studies are needed in order to 

determine whether children and infants are at risk from neurological deficits following hydrogen sulfide 

exposures in utero or during childhood and adolescence; information from such studies would also be 

useful in order to determine whether children are more sensitive to hydrogen sulfide exposure. 

Carbonyl Sulfide. No studies were identified that could evaluate children’s susceptibility to carbonyl 

sulfide. Studies in adult rats identify the nervous system as a sensitive target. Thus, future studies 

examining children should evaluate neurological end points to evaluate whether they are more sensitive 

than adults. 

Child health data needs relating to exposure are discussed in Section 6.8.1, Identification of Data Needs: 

Exposures of Children. 

3.12.3 Ongoing Studies 

NIEHS is sponsoring a study conducted by Michael Bates, University of California at Berkeley, to 

examine the chronic toxicity of hydrogen sulfide. The study will examine 1,800 adults living in Rotorua, 

New Zealand with high, medium, or low exposures to hydrogen sulfide from geothermal fields. The 

subjects will undergo tests to evaluate neurobehavioral function, peripheral nerve function, lung function, 

potential cataract formation, and color vision impairment. 
 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 138 

3. HEALTH EFFECTS

The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) is sponsoring a study conducted by 

Gerry Boss, University of California at San Diego, to evaluate whether cobinamide (the penultimate 

precursor in cobalamin [vitamin B12]), can be used as an antidote for hydrogen sulfide toxicity. In 

another NINDS-sponsored study, Philippe Haouzi, Pennsylvania State University, will examine the 

effectiveness of powdered methemoglobin and vitamin B12 (hydroxocobalamin) as an antidote in 

potentially lethal exposures to hydrogen sulfide. 

No ongoing studies on carbonyl sulfide were identified. 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 139 

4. CHEMICAL AND PHYSICAL INFORMATION

4.1 CHEMICAL IDENTITY 

Information regarding the chemical identities of hydrogen sulfide and carbonyl sulfide is located in 

Table 4-1. This information includes synonyms, chemical formula and structure, and identification 

numbers. 

4.2 PHYSICAL AND CHEMICAL PROPERTIES 

Information regarding the physical and chemical properties of hydrogen sulfide and carbonyl sulfide is 

located in Table 4-2. 

Hydrogen Sulfide. Hydrogen sulfide is a heavier-than-air, colorless gas with a sweetish taste and 

characteristic odor of rotten eggs (HSDB 2013). The odor threshold for hydrogen sulfide is variable and 

various ranges have been reported. Ruth (1986) reviewed odor thresholds of several hundred chemicals 

(including hydrogen sulfide) from the industrial hygiene literature and other compilations of odor 

threshold data; an odor threshold range of 0.0005–0.010 ppm was reported. Guidotti (1994) reported an 

odor threshold range of 0.01–0.3 ppm. Since high concentrations of hydrogen sulfide (150–200 ppm) can 

paralyze the olfactory nerve, odor may not be a reliable indicator of the presence of this gas (Beauchamp 

et al. 1984). 

Carbonyl Sulfide. Carbonyl sulfide is also a colorless gas with a typical sulfide odor, except when it is 

free from impurities (EPA 1994c; Lewis 2007). An odor threshold of 135 μg/m3 (0.055 ppm) has been 

reported (Texas Commission on Environmental Quality 2008). 
HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 140 

4. CHEMICAL AND PHYSICAL INFORMATION

Table 4-1. Chemical Identity of Hydrogen Sulfide and Carbonyl Sulfide 

Characteristic Hydrogen sulfidea Carbonyl sulfideb 

Synonyms/trade names Hydrosulfuric acid; hydrogen sulphide; 

stink damp; sewer gas; sulfur hydride; 

dihydrogen monosulfide; dihydrogen 

sulfide; sulfureted hydrogen; hydrogen 

sulfuric acid; acide sulfhydrique 

[French]; acide sulphhydrique; 

hydrogen sulfure [French]; hydrogene 

sulfure [French]; idrogeno solforato 

[Italian]; schwefelwasserstoff [German]; 

siarkowodor [Polish]; zwavelwaterstof 

[Dutch] 

Carbon monoxide monosulfide; 

carbon oxide sulfide; carbon 

oxysulfide; oxycarbon sulfide; 

carbon oxide sulfide (9CI); 

carbon oxide sulfide (COS); 

carbonyl sulphide 

Chemical formula H2S COS 

Chemical structure 

H 

S 

H 

Identification numbers: 

CAS registry 7783-06-4 463-58-1

NIOSH/RTECS MX1225000c No data

EPA hazardous waste U135 D003

DOT/UN/NA/IMCO shipping UN1053; IMO 2.3 UN2204; IMO 2.3

HSDB 576 6127

EINECS 231-977-3 207-340-0

NCI No data No data

aAll information obtained from HSDB 2013 and ChemID 2013 except where noted.
 bAll information obtained from HSDB 2007 and ChemID 2013.
 cNIOSH 2011
 

CAS = Chemical Abstract Services; DOT/UN/NA/IMCO = Department of Transportation/United Nations/North 

America/International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code; EINECS = European Inventory of Existing Commercial
 

Substances; EPA = Environmental Protection Agency; HSDB = Hazardous Substance Data Bank; NCI = National
 

Cancer Institute; NIOSH = National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health; RTECS = Registry of Toxic Effects
 

of Chemical Substances
 
 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 141 

4. CHEMICAL AND PHYSICAL INFORMATION

Table 4-2. Physical and Chemical Properties of Hydrogen Sulfide and 

Carbonyl

Sulfide



Property Hydrogen sulfide Carbonyl sulfide 

Molecular weight 34.081a 60.075b 

Color Colorlessa Colorlessc 

Taste Sweetish tastea 

Physical state Gasa Gasc 

Melting point -85.49°Ca -138.8°Cc 

Boiling point -60.33°Ca -50.2°Cc 

Density in Air 1.189 (air=1.00)c 2.1 (air=1.00)c 

Density at 0°C, 760 mmHg 1.5392 g/La 

Odor Strong odor of rotten eggs; Typical sulfide odor except when 

offensive odora purec; odorless when pure, sulfur 

odor when it contains impuritiesd 

Odor threshold: 

Water 0.000029 ppme 

Air 0.0005–0.3 ppmf,g 135 μg/m3h 

Solubility: 

Water 3.98 g/L at 20°Ca; 5.3 g/L at 10°C, 

4.1 g/L at 20°C, 3.2 g/L at 30°Ci 

1.22 g/L at 25°Cb 

Other solvent(s) Soluble in glycerol, gasoline, Soluble in alcoholc; very soluble in 

kerosene, carbon disulfide, crude 

oil; certain polar organic solvents, 

potassium hydroxide, carbon 

disulfidei

; soluble in tolueneb 

notably methanol, acetone, 

propylene carbonate, sulfolane, 

tributyl phosphate, various glycols, 

and glycol ethersa 

Partition coefficients: 

Log Kow Not applicable 

Log Koc Not applicable 

Vapor pressure at 25°C 13,600 mmHg at 20°Ca 9412 mmHgj 

pKa (1) 7.04a 

pKa (2) 11.96a 

Henry’s law constant: 

at 20°C 468 atm/mole fractionj 

at 25°C 0.0098 atm-m3/molea 

at 30°C 600 atm/mole fractionj 

at 40°C 729 atm/mole fractionj 
HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 142 

4. CHEMICAL AND PHYSICAL INFORMATION

Table 4-2. Physical and Chemical Properties of Hydrogen Sulfide and 

Carbonyl

Sulfide



Property Hydrogen sulfide Carbonyl sulfide 

Autoignition temperature 500°F (260°C)c 

Incompatibilities Oxidizing agents (i.e., 

perchlorates, peroxides, 

permanganates, chlorates, 

nitrates, chlorine, bromine, 

fluorine); may react with water and 

moist airk 

Conversion factors 1 ppm=1.40 mg/m3l 1 mg/m3=0.41 ppmm 

Explosive limits Upper, 46%; lower, 4.3% (by Upper, 28.5%; lower, 12%c 

volume in air)a 

aHSDB 2013 

bHSDB 2007 

cLewis 2007 

dEPA 1994c 

eAmoore and Hautala 1983 

f

Ruth 1986 

gGuidotti 1994 

hTexas Commission on Environmental Quality 2008 

i

O'Neil et al. 2001 

j

Daubert and Danner 1989 

kNJDEP 2009 

l

Al-Haddad et al. 1989 mEPA 1994a 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 143 

5. PRODUCTION, IMPORT/EXPORT, USE, AND DISPOSAL

5.1 PRODUCTION 

Hydrogen Sulfide. Hydrogen sulfide is produced in technical (98.5%) and purified (99.5% minimum) 

grades (Lewis 2007). It is commercially available by two typical approaches: recovery from gas 

mixtures and chemical means. Natural gas and gases associated with crude oil contain varying amounts 

of hydrogen sulfide from trace amounts to 70–80% (Pouliquen et al. 1989). Recovery of hydrogen sulfide 

from natural gas, manufactured gas operations, or as a byproduct of petroleum refining is the main nonnatural source of hydrogen sulfide (Beauchamp et al. 1984; Lewis 2007). These recovery processes can 

be categorized into several methods, including chemical and physical absorption, dry oxidation to form 

sulfur or oxides (Clause process), and liquid oxidation to form oxides (Ferrox process) (Beauchamp et al. 

1984). 

Hydrogen sulfide production by chemical reaction can involve reacting sulfur vapor either with a 

hydrocarbon (Pouliquen et al. 1989) or with hydrogen gas (H2) at a specific temperature and pressure 

(Lewis 2007). It can also be produced by the hydrogen reduction or acid decomposition of a sulfide 

(Pouliquen et al. 1989), such as the reaction of dilute sulfuric acid on a sulfide (i.e., iron sulfide) (Lewis 

2007). Another method of hydrogen sulfide production, which accounts for >90% of the sulfur in crude 

oil, is hydrodesulfurization, in which gas-oil and coke distillate fractions are passed through a fixed-bed 

catalyst in the presence of hydrogen. Approximately 80–90% of the sulfur-containing compounds 

(mostly acyclic and cyclic sulfides) are converted into hydrogen sulfide by this process (Beauchamp et al. 

1984; Weil and Sandler 1997). 

Table 5-1 lists the facilities in each state that manufacture, process, or use hydrogen sulfide as well as the 

volume ranges that are stored on-site. There are 520 facilities that produce or process hydrogen sulfide in 

the United States (TRI14 2015). 

Carbonyl Sulfide. Carbonyl sulfide is produced as 97.5% minimum purity grade (HSDB 2007). It 

occurs as a byproduct of carbon disulfide production (EPA 1994c, 1994d; Weil and Sandler 1997) and is 

produced as an impurity in natural gas and refinery gases as well as from the combustion of sulfurcontaining fuels. Carbonyl sulfide can result from the pyrolysis of carbonaceous fuels with oxygen, 

steam, and sulfur compounds (Lay et al. 2012). 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 144 

5. PRODUCTION, IMPORT/EXPORT, USE, AND DISPOSAL 

Table 5-1. Facilities that Produce, Process, or Use Hydrogen Sulfide 

Minimum Maximum 

Number of amount on site amount on site 

Statea facilities in poundsb in poundsb Activities and usesc 

AK 2 100 99,999 

AL 30 0 999,999 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 12, 13, 14 

AR 17 0 49,999,999 1, 5, 6, 9, 12, 13, 14 

CA 22 0 9,999,999 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 7, 8, 13, 14 

CO 3 0 499,999,999 1, 2, 5, 12, 13, 14 

DE 4 0 499,999,999 1, 2, 5, 6, 7, 12 

FL 13 0 9,999 1, 5, 14 

GA 22 0 9,999,999 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 12, 13 

HI 2 1,000 99,999 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 12, 13, 14 

IA 9 100 9,999 1, 5 

ID 4 100 9,999,999 1, 5, 14 

IL 18 0 999,999,999 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 7, 12, 13, 14 

IN 13 0 9,999,999 1, 5, 7, 13, 14 

KS 10 0 99,999,999 1, 5, 6, 7, 9, 13, 14 

KY 9 0 999,999 1, 2, 5, 6, 12, 13, 14 

LA 45 0 99,999,999 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 7, 9, 10, 12, 13, 14 

MA 2 10,000 99,999 9 

MD 3 0 9,999 1, 5, 13 

ME 6 0 99,999 1, 5 

MI 6 0 999,999 1, 3, 4, 5, 6, 12, 13, 14 

MN 9 0 49,999,999 1, 5, 12, 13, 14 

MO 7 0 9,999,999 1, 3, 5, 6, 9, 11, 14 

MS 13 0 99,999 1, 2, 5, 6, 12, 13, 14 

MT 6 1,000 99,999 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 13, 14 

NC 11 0 9,999,999 1, 5, 13 

ND 6 0 9,999,999 1, 3, 5, 6, 9, 13, 14 

NE 8 100 99,999 1, 5, 7, 12 

NJ 5 0 999,999 1, 2, 5, 6, 13, 14 

NM 6 0 99,999 1, 5, 6, 13, 14 

NV 1 0 0 0 

NY 7 0 99,999 1, 5, 9, 12, 13 

OH 20 0 49,999,999 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 9, 11, 12, 13, 14 

OK 11 0 99,999 1, 3, 4, 5, 6, 12, 13, 14 

OR 6 0 99,999 1, 5, 12 

PA 14 0 99,999,999 1, 2, 3, 5, 10, 13, 14 

PR 4 10,000 999,999 1, 2, 5, 7 

SC 8 0 999,999 1, 5, 13, 14 

SD 2 10,000 99,999 1, 5, 14 
 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 145 

5. PRODUCTION, IMPORT/EXPORT, USE, AND DISPOSAL

Table 5-1. Facilities that Produce, Process, or Use Hydrogen Sulfide 

Minimum Maximum 

Number of amount on site amount on site 

Statea facilities in poundsb in poundsb Activities and usesc 

TN 11 0 999,999 1, 2, 4, 5, 13, 14 

TX 76 0 499,999,999 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 11, 12, 13, 14 

UT 5 1,000 9,999,999 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 10, 12, 13, 14 

VA 8 0 999,999 1, 5, 6, 13 

WA 16 0 49,999,999 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 7, 12, 13, 14 

WI 13 0 99,999 1, 5, 6, 12, 13, 14 

WV 2 1,000 99,999 1, 3, 5, 6, 13 

WY 5 1,000 9,999 1, 3, 5, 6, 7, 12, 13, 14 

aPost office state abbreviations used. 

bAmounts on site reported by facilities in each state. 

cActivities/Uses: 

1. Produce 6. Impurity 11. Chemical Processing Aid

2. Import 7. Reactant 12. Manufacturing Aid

3. Onsite use/processing 8. Formulation Component 13. Ancillary/Other Uses

4. Sale/Distribution 9. Article Component 14. Process Impurity

5. Byproduct 10. Repackaging

Source: TRI14 2015 (Data are from 2014) 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 146 

5. PRODUCTION, IMPORT/EXPORT, USE, AND DISPOSAL 

Carbonyl sulfide can also be found in tobacco smoke as well as emissions from diesel engines and the 

coal gasification process (NJDEP 2009). Additionally, carbonyl sulfide is found in numerous natural 

sources, including volcanic gases, petroleum crude oil, sulfurous waters, salt marshes, and soils (EPA 

1994c). It can also emanate from deciduous and coniferous trees (EPA 1994c). 

Table 5-2 lists the facilities in each state that manufacture, process, or use carbonyl sulfide as well as the 

volume ranges that are stored on-site. There are 134 facilities that produce or process carbonyl sulfide in 

the United States (TRI14 2015). 

5.2 IMPORT/EXPORT 

No data on import or export volumes for hydrogen sulfide or carbonyl sulfide are available. 

5.3 USE 

Hydrogen Sulfide. Hydrogen sulfide has a variety of industrial uses. Its major use is in the production of 

elemental sulfur and sulfuric acid. Sulfur recovered from the treatment of sour gas in 1986 accounted for 

14 million tons, or 25% of total world sulfur production. In 1995, the production of sulfuric acid was 

estimated to consume 1.1x105 metric tons of hydrogen sulfide. Hydrogen sulfide is used to prepare 

inorganic sulfides (such as sodium sulfide and sodium hydrosulfide) which are used in the manufacture of 

dyes, rubber chemicals, pesticides, polymers, plastic additives, leather, and pharmaceuticals. It is also 

used in the manufacture of metal sulfides and thioorganic compounds and is an intermediate for sulfuric 

acid and elemental sulfur production. Hydrogen sulfide is used in the purification of nickel, manganese, 

hydrochloric acid, and sulfuric acid; in catalyst activation and poisoning; in the treatment of metallic 

surfaces; and as a source of hydrogen. It is used in metallurgy, in the production of heavy water for the 

nuclear industry, and as an analytical reagent. In extreme pressure lubricants and cutting oils, hydrogen 

sulfide is used as an additive. Hydrogen sulfide is also used as an agricultural disinfectant. It is not 

registered as a pesticide in the United States (Beauchamp et al. 1984; Bingham et al. 2001; Lewis 2007; 

Sittig 2002; Weil and Sandler 1997). Recently hydrogen sulfide was reported to conduct electricity with 

zero resistance at -70 °C when subjected to high pressure (approximately 1.5 million atmospheres), which 

suggests that it has potential as a conventional high temperature superconducting material (Cartlidge 

2015; Drozdov et al. 2015). 
 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 147 

5. PRODUCTION, IMPORT/EXPORT, USE, AND DISPOSAL 

Table 5-2. Facilities that Produce, Process, or Use Carbonyl Sulfide 

Minimum Maximum 

Number of amount on site amount on site 

Statea facilities in poundsb in poundsb Activities and usesc 

AK 1 0 99 1, 5 

AL 4 0 9,999 1, 5, 6, 12, 13, 14 

AR 1 1,000 9,999 1, 3, 5, 6 

CA 14 0 9,999,999 1, 3, 5, 6, 13, 14 

DE 2 10,000 9,999,999 1, 3, 5, 6 

HI 1 0 99 1, 13 

IL 6 0 9,999,999 1, 3, 4, 5, 6, 13, 14 

IN 7 0 999,999 1, 5, 12 

KS 6 0 999 1, 5, 14 

KY 3 0 9,999 1, 5 

LA 19 0 999,999 1, 3, 5, 6, 7, 12, 13, 14 

MI 1 100 999 1, 5 

MN 3 100 9,999 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 13 

MO 1 0 99 1, 5 

MS 3 100 999,999 1, 5, 6, 12 

MT 4 0 9,999 1, 5, 6, 12, 13, 14 

ND 2 0 9,999 1, 5, 13, 14 

NM 1 0 99 1, 5 

NV 1 0 99 1, 5 

NY 2 0 99 1, 5 

OH 6 0 9,999 1, 3, 5, 13 

OK 4 0 999 1, 5, 12, 14 

PA 2 1,000 9,999,999 1, 5, 12, 13 

SC 2 0 99 1, 5, 12 

TN 3 0 999 1, 5, 6, 13, 14 

TX 25 0 9,999,999 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 112, 13, 14 

UT 3 0 999 1, 5 

WA 6 0 999,999 1, 5, 13 

WI 1 100 999 1, 5 

WY 2 0 999 1, 5 

aPost office state abbreviations used. 

bAmounts on site reported by facilities in each state. cActivities/Uses: 

1. Produce 6. Impurity 11. Chemical Processing Aid 

2. Import 7. Reactant 12. Manufacturing Aid 

3. Onsite use/processing 8. Formulation Component 13. Ancillary/Other Uses 

4. Sale/Distribution 9. Article Component 14. Process Impurity 

5. Byproduct 10. Repackaging 

Source: TRI14 2015 (Data are from 2014) 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 148 

5. PRODUCTION, IMPORT/EXPORT, USE, AND DISPOSAL 

Carbonyl Sulfide. Carbonyl sulfide has few commercial uses; it is primarily used in small scale chemical 

syntheses (Lay et al. 2012). Carbonyl sulfide is a chemical intermediate in the manufacture of 

thiocarbamate herbicides (EPA 1994d; Weil and Sandler 1997). It can be used in the synthesis of 

aliphatic polyureas as well as for the production of alkyl carbonates and other organic compounds (Weil 

and Sandler 1997). It may also be used in the production of semiconductors (Chase et al. 2010). Refinery 

and fuel gases can contain carbonyl sulfide as an impurity. Combustion of sulfur-containing fuels can 

also result in the formation of carbonyl sulfide (EPA 1994d). Carbonyl sulfide has been used as a highly 

effective grain fumigant in place of the ozone-depleting methyl bromide (Bartholomaeus and Haritos 

2005; NJDEP 2009; Wright 2000). In the same capacity, it can also be used in conjunction with 

phosphine gas to reduce insect resistance (Bartholomaeus and Haritos 2005). 

5.4 DISPOSAL 

Hydrogen Sulfide. Hydrogen sulfide is designated as a hazardous substance under Section 311(b) of the 

Clean Water Act (EPA 2009d). Disposal of wastes containing hydrogen sulfide is controlled by a number 

of federal regulations (see Chapter 8). The EPA-assigned hazardous waste number for hydrogen sulfide 

is U135 (EPA 2012b). Generators of waste exceeding 100 kg/month containing hydrogen sulfide must 

conform to the EPA regulations for the storage, transportation, treatment, and disposal of waste (EPA 

2012f). Additional information concerning the accidental release of hydrogen sulfide and its reporting 

requirements is found in Chapter 8. 

Carbonyl Sulfide. Carbonyl sulfide has been cited by the Department of Transportation (DOT), 

Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS), National 

Fire Protection Association (NFPA), and EPA and is therefore on the New Jersey Right to Know 

Hazardous Substance List (NJDEP 2009). Carbonyl sulfide has an EPA hazardous waste number of 

D003, and therefore, those generating waste exceeding 100 kg/month must comply with EPA 

requirements (EPA 2012f). 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 149 

6. POTENTIAL FOR HUMAN EXPOSURE 

6.1 OVERVIEW 

Hydrogen sulfide has been found in at least 34 of the 1,832 waste sites that have been proposed for 

inclusion on the EPA National Priorities List (NPL) and carbonyl sulfide was detected in at least 4 of 

the 1,832 waste sites (ATSDR 2015). However, the number of sites evaluated for these substances is 

not known and hydrogen sulfide and carbonyl sulfide are ubiquitous in the atmosphere. The frequency of 

these sites can be seen in Figures 6-1 and 6-2. 

Carbonyl sulfide and hydrogen sulfide are principal components in the natural sulfur cycle. Bacteria, 

fungi, and actinomycetes (a fungus-like bacteria) release hydrogen sulfide during the decomposition of 

sulfur containing proteins and by the direct reduction of sulfate (SO4

2-). Hydrogen sulfide is also emitted 

from volcanoes, stagnant or polluted waters, and manure or coal pits with low oxygen content (Aneja 

1990; Khalil and Ramussen 1984). The majority of carbonyl sulfide that enters the environment is 

released to air and it is very abundant in the troposphere (Conrad and Meuser 2000; EPA 1994c, 1994d; 

Meinrat et al. 1992; Simmons et al. 2012; Stimler et al. 2010). It enters the atmosphere from both natural 

and anthropogenic sources (EPA 1994c, 1994d; Meinrat et al. 1992; Stimler et al. 2010). Carbonyl 

sulfide is released from wetlands, salt marshes, soil, oceans, deciduous and coniferous trees, and volcanic 

gases (Blake et al. 2004; EPA 1994c, 1994d; Meinrat et al. 1992; Rasmussen et al. 1982a, 1982b; Stimler 

et al. 2010). Anthropogenic sources of carbonyl sulfide include production as a chemical intermediate; 

burning of biomass; oxidation of carbon disulfide and dimethyl sulfide; aluminum production; 

combustion of coal; extraction of natural gas and petroleum crude oil; recovery of sulfur; combustion of 

garbage and plastics; manufacture of synthetic fibers, starch, and rubber; fish processing; and automobiles 

(ASTM International 2012; Blake et al. 2004; EPA 1994c, 1994d; PERC 2001). Natural sources of 

carbonyl sulfide and hydrogen sulfide are significantly greater than anthropogenic emissions. 

Carbonyl sulfide can be removed from the atmosphere by terrestrial vegetation, soils, photolysis, and 

reaction with hydroxyl and oxygen radicals (Blake et al. 2004; EPA 1994d; Stimler et al. 2010). 

Decomposition of carbonyl sulfide by moisture results in the formation of carbon dioxide and hydrogen 

sulfide. Hydrogen sulfide is consumed by bacteria found in soil and water that oxidize hydrogen sulfide 

to elemental sulfur. Photosynthetic bacteria can oxidize hydrogen sulfide to sulfur and sulfate in the 

presence of light and the absence of oxygen (EPA 1993; WHO 1981). 
HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 150

6. POTENTIAL FOR HUMAN EXPOSURE

Figure 6-1. Frequency of NPL Sites with Hydrogen Sulfide Contamination
HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 151

6. POTENTIAL FOR HUMAN EXPOSURE

Figure 6-2. Frequency of NPL Sites with Carbonyl Sulfide Contamination
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 152 

6. POTENTIAL FOR HUMAN EXPOSURE 

Degradation of hydrogen sulfide in the atmosphere can occur through oxidation by oxygen (O2) and 

ozone (O3) to yield sulfur dioxide (SO2), and ultimately, sulfate compounds. Sulfur dioxide and sulfates 

are eventually removed from the atmosphere through absorption by plants and soils or through 

precipitation (Hill 1973). Hydrogen sulfide in air can also react with photochemically generated hydroxyl 

radicals. The effective lifetimes for hydrogen sulfide based on summer daytime and yearly average 

hydroxyl radical concentrations have been estimated to be 0.23 and 2.3 days, respectively, based on a 

measured rate constant of 4.8x10-12 cm3

/molecule second (Cox 1975). Lifetimes in air ranging from 

approximately 1 day in the summer to 42 days in the winter have been estimated for hydrogen sulfide 

(Bottenheim and Strausz 1980). Hydrogen sulfide is not expected to be decomposed by direct absorption 

of ultraviolet radiation, and its reaction with ozone is not expected to be a significant environmental fate 

(Cox 1975). 

Hydrogen sulfide oxidation by O2 may readily occur in surface waters (Millero et al. 1987, 1989). 

Hydrogen sulfide is readily soluble in water. In aqueous solution, hydrogen sulfide is a weak acid, 

exhibiting two acid dissociation constants. The first dissociation yields bisulfide ion (HS–

), and the 

second yields sulfide ion (S2–), with pKa values for each of these dissociations of 7.04 and 11.96, 

respectively (O'Neil et al. 2001). At a pH of 7.0, the ratio of the concentration of aqueous hydrogen 

sulfide to bisulfate ion is approximately 1-to-1. As the pH increases above 7.0, the ratio of the 

concentration of bisulfide ion to aqueous hydrogen sulfide increases. Only above pH 12 will the 

concentration of sulfide ion become significant (>50%). Hydrogen sulfide has been shown to sorb to 

various soils (Cihacek and Bremner 1993; Smith et al. 1973). Several species of soil, aquatic, and marine 

microorganisms oxidize hydrogen sulfide to elemental sulfur, and its half-time in these environments 

usually ranges from 1 hour to several hours (Jørgensen 1982). Because it is a gas under ambient 

conditions, bioconcentration and food chain biomagnification are unlikely. 

While carbonyl sulfide is relatively inert in the troposphere, with a reported lifetime ranging from 2 to 

10 years (Blake et al. 2004; EPA 1994d; Liu et al. 2007; Meinrat et al. 1992; Stimler et al. 2010), it is 

transported to the stratosphere where it undergoes photolysis and reaction with oxygen and 

photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals (EPA 1994d; Meinrat et al. 1992; Stimler et al. 2010). It 

may contribute to ozone depletion (Conrad and Meuser 2000; Liu et al. 2007; Meinrat et al. 1992; 

Simmons et al. 2012). 

Carbonyl sulfide can enter water and soil through atmospheric deposition. In water, carbonyl sulfide 

reacts with the water to form carbon dioxide and hydrogen sulfide. It is expected to rapidly volatilize to 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 153 

6. POTENTIAL FOR HUMAN EXPOSURE 

air. Carbonyl sulfide does not bind to soils and may be transported to groundwater (EPA 1994c; Meinrat 

et al. 1992;). While soils could potentially be both a sink and a source to the atmosphere, recent data 

indicate that soils are primarily a sink for atmospheric carbonyl sulfide (Conrad and Meuser 2000; Kato et 

al. 2008; Liu et al. 2007, 2010; Simmons et al. 2012; Stimler et al. 2010). Carbonyl sulfide has been 

found to biodegrade in soils (Kato et al. 2008). It is not expected to bioconcentrate in aquatic organisms 

(EPA 1994c, 1994d). 

Exposure of the general population to hydrogen sulfide and carbonyl sulfide is primarily through 

inhalation of ambient air, as these substances are ubiquitous in the atmosphere. Occupational exposure to 

carbonyl sulfide is primarily a result of its production and use as a chemical intermediate (EPA 1994d) 

and its production as a byproduct in petroleum refining and coal distillation (EPA 1994c). Occupational 

exposure to hydrogen sulfide occurs at facilities where it is produced, used, or generated such as 

petroleum refineries, natural gas plants, petrochemical plants, coke oven plants, kraft paper mills, viscose 

rayon manufacturing plants, sulfur production plants, iron smelters, food processing plants, manure 

treatment facilities, landfills, textile plants, waste water treatment facilities, and tanneries (Chénard et al. 

2003; Devai and DeLaune 1999; Lehman 1996; Rimatori et al. 1996; Svendsen 2001). 

6.2 RELEASES TO THE ENVIRONMENT 

The Toxics Release Inventory (TRI) data should be used with caution because only certain types of 

facilities are required to report (EPA 2005). This is not an exhaustive list. Manufacturing and processing 

facilities are required to report information to the TRI only if they employ 10 or more full-time 

employees; if their facility is included in the following Standard Industrial Classification (SIC) Codes 10 

(except 1011, 1081, and 1094), 12 (except 1241), 20–39, 4911 (limited to facilities that combust coal 

and/or oil for the purpose of generating electricity for distribution in commerce), 4931 (limited to 

facilities that combust coal and/or oil for the purpose of generating electricity for distribution in 

commerce), 4939 (limited to facilities that combust coal and/or oil for the purpose of generating 

electricity for distribution in commerce), 4953 (limited to facilities regulated under RCRA Subtitle C, 

42 U.S.C. section 6921 et seq.), 5169, 5171, and 7389 (limited S.C. section 6921 et seq.), 5169, 5171, and 

7389 (limited to facilities primarily engaged in solvents recovery services on a contract or fee basis); and 

if their facility produces, imports, or processes ≥25,000 pounds of any TRI chemical or otherwise uses 

>10,000 pounds of a TRI chemical in a calendar year (EPA 2005). 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 154 

6. POTENTIAL FOR HUMAN EXPOSURE 

6.2.1 Air 

Hydrogen Sulfide. Estimated releases of 20.6 million pounds (~9,331 metric tons) of hydrogen sulfide to 

the atmosphere from 516 domestic manufacturing and processing facilities in 2014, accounted for about 

79% of the estimated total environmental releases from facilities required to report to the TRI (TRI14 

2015). These releases are summarized in Table 6-1. 

Hydrogen sulfide is produced naturally and as a result of human activity. Natural sources, such as 

swamps, bogs, and volcanoes, account for about 90% of the total amount of hydrogen sulfide in the 

atmosphere (EPA 1993). Annually, 100–324 million tons of hydrogen sulfide are released from natural 

sources with half from volcanoes, flooded ground, or hydrogeological sources, and the other half from the 

oceans (Pouliquen et al. 1989). Massive release of hydrogen sulfide to the ocean surface and atmosphere 

could occur during intervals of ocean anoxia (Kump et al. 2005). Nearshore hydrogen sulfide eruptions 

occur in the Atlantic Ocean along the central coast of Nambia and have been observed to affect areas of 

ocean surface of >20,000 km2 (Weeks et al. 2004). Many petroleum deposits and natural gas wells also 

contain hydrogen sulfide ("sour-gas wells") and become sources of atmospheric hydrogen sulfide release 

when developed (Layton and Cederwall 1986; Leahey and Schroeder 1986). Hydrogen sulfide is emitted 

by some plant species as a byproduct of sulfite metabolism (Takemoto et al. 1986; Wilson et al. 1978). 

Emission rates of various biogenic sulfur gases (including hydrogen sulfide) from the exposed soils of 

five wetland plant communities in Florida were measured during April, May, and October 1985 and 

January 1986. Emission rates for hydrogen sulfide varied from 0.1–1.0 to 8.3–152 μg sulfur/m2

/hour 

from a spike grass site in the Everglades National Park in January 1986 and a sawgrass site at Merritt 

Island National Wildlife Refuge in April 1985, respectively (Cooper et al. 1987). Hydrogen sulfide was 

identified in the volatile emissions of leaf litter of poplar trees (Populus balsamifera) (Isidorov and 

Jdanova 2002). Estimates of the terrestrial emission rates of hydrogen sulfide range from 58 to 

110 million tons of sulfur/year and estimates of the emission rates from oceans range from 30 to 

170 million tons of sulfur/year (Hill 1973). 

Facilities where hydrogen sulfide is produced, used, or generated include petroleum refineries, natural gas 

plants, petrochemical plants, coke oven plants, kraft paper mills, viscose rayon manufacturing plants, 

sulfur production plants, iron smelters, food processing plants, manure treatment facilities, landfills, 
HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 155 

6. POTENTIAL FOR HUMAN EXPOSURE

Table 6-1. Releases to the Environment from Facilities that Produce, Process, or
 

Use Hydrogen Sulfidea

Reported amounts released in pounds per yearb 

Total release 

On- and 

Statec RFd Aire Waterf UIg Landh Otheri On-sitej Off-sitek off-site 

AK 2 4,141 30 0 66 0 4,237 0 4,237 

AL 30 2,231,120 88,145 0 11,612 0 2,330,877 No data 2,330,877 

AR 16 1,420,286 21,236 0 62,507 0 1,504,029 No data 1,504,029 

CA 21 144,986 449 0 0 0 145,435 0 145,435 

CO 3 7,307 0 0 0 0 7,307 No data 7,307 

DE 4 28,932 1 0 0 0 28,932 No data 28,932 

FL 12 538,399 2,759 0 1,559 17,300 542,213 17,804 560,017 

GA 22 2,289,315 120,324 0 4,416 0 2,414,055 No data 2,414,055 

HI 2 1,802 0 0 0 0 1,802 No data 1,802 

IA 9 104,506 1,713 0 3,838 4 106,219 3,842 110,061 

ID 4 168,257 579 0 170 0 169,006 No data 169,006 

IL 18 197,020 4,221 0 93 0 201,276 58 201,334 

IN 13 338,570 120 0 1 1 338,690 2 338,692 

KS 10 161,492 0 0 0 7,054 161,492 7,054 168,546 

KY 9 239,157 537 0 0 0 239,694 No data 239,694 

LA 45 1,345,124 9,245 1,554 2,018 0 1,357,941 0 1,357,941 

MA 2 3 0 0 0 0 3 No data 3 

MD 3 178,383 0 0 0 0 178,383 No data 178,383 

ME 6 474,012 583 0 243 0 474,671 167 474,838 

MI 6 91,713 230 0 277 0 92,220 No data 92,220 

MN 9 377,654 13 0 23 0 377,667 23 377,690 

MO 7 9,030 34 0 1,012 0 9,069 1,007 10,076 

MS 13 666,188 142,915 0 0 0 809,103 No data 809,103 

MT 6 58,200 131 0 5 0 58,331 5 58,336 

NC 11 2,377,504 4,345 0 1,177 0 2,381,917 1,109 2,383,026 

ND 6 1,248,744 73,100 1,200 0 2,649 1,323,044 2,649 1,325,693 

NE 8 51,636 13,734 0 475 0 65,370 475 65,845 

NJ 5 10,977 80 0 0 0 11,057 No data 11,057 

NM 6 151,533 0 4,285,492 15,798 1 4,449,859 2,965 4,452,824 

NV 1 0 No data 0 0 0 No data No data No data 

NY 7 35,432 368 0 39 0 35,800 39 35,839 

OH 20 110,595 71 0 813 0 110,689 790 111,479 

OK 11 189,841 1,682 0 475 0 191,998 No data 191,998 

OR 6 275,279 19,438 0 45 0 294,762 No data 294,762 

PA 14 331,129 2,920 0 192 0 334,241 1 334,241 

PR 4 112,781 0 0 0 0 112,781 No data 112,781 
 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 156 

6. POTENTIAL FOR HUMAN EXPOSURE

Table 6-1. Releases to the Environment from Facilities that Produce, Process, or
 

Use Hydrogen Sulfidea

Reported amounts released in pounds per yearb 

Total release 

On- and 

Statec RFd Aire Waterf UIg Landh Otheri On-sitej Off-sitek off-site 

SC 8 682,435 13,287 0 54,959 0 750,681 No data 750,681 

SD 2 982 0 0 1 0 982 1 983 

TN 11 1,109,099 1,969 0 0 0 1,111,068 0 1,111,068 

TX 75 1,677,195 8,134 203,354 196,884 0 2,085,369 197 2,085,567 

UT 5 18,117 0 0 260 0 18,377 No data 18,377 

VA 8 404,915 165 0 12,098 0 416,147 1,031 417,177 

WA 16 389,526 7,084 0 872 0 397,379 103 397,482 

WI 13 279,032 3,347 0 2,698 0 283,201 1,876 285,077 

WV 2 3,462 33 0 0 0 3,495 No data 3,495 

WY 5 34,792 7 0 192 13,000 34,850 13,141 47,991 

Total 516 20,570,603 543,028 4,491,600 374,818 40,009 25,965,719 54,339 26,020,057 

aThe TRI data should be used with caution since only certain types of facilities are required to report. This is not an 

exhaustive list. Data are rounded to nearest whole number.
 bData in TRI are maximum amounts released by each facility.
 cPost office state abbreviations are used.
 dNumber of reporting facilities.
 eThe sum of fugitive and point source releases are included in releases to air by a given facility.
 f

Surface water discharges, waste water treatment-(metals only), and publicly owned treatment works (POTWs) (metal
 

and metal compounds).
 gClass I wells, Class II-V wells, and underground injection.
 hResource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) subtitle C landfills; other onsite landfills, land treatment, surface 

impoundments, other land disposal, other landfills.
 i

Storage only, solidification/stabilization (metals only), other off-site management, transfers to waste broker for
 

disposal, unknown.
 j

The sum of all releases of the chemical to air, land, water, and underground injection wells.
 kTotal amount of chemical transferred off-site, including to POTWs.
 

RF = reporting facilities; UI = underground injection 

Source: TRI14 2015 (Data are from 2014) 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 157 

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textile plants, waste water treatment facilities, and tanneries (Beck et al. 1981; Chénard et al. 2003; Devai 

and DeLaune 1999; Grant and Schuman 1993; Lehman 1996; Rimatori et al. 1996; Sittig 2002; Svendsen 

2001). Hydrogen sulfide is also used as an agricultural disinfectant, in the production of heavy water, and 

as an additive in lubricants and cutting oils (Bingham et al. 2001; Sittig 2002; Weil and Sandler 1997). 

Hydrogen sulfide may also be encountered in various industrial processes including the manufacture of 

dyes and pigments, felt, artificial silk, farming; in brewing, glue making, and rubber vulcanization; and in 

lithography and photoengraving (Beck et al. 1981; Grant and Schuman 1993; Sittig 2002). Accidental 

release or improper disposal of materials resulting from these processes may result in hydrogen sulfide 

emissions. Ambient hydrogen sulfide concentrations in the air near landfills indicate that they are a 

source as well (ATSDR 2015). Sulfides, including hydrogen sulfide, constitute up to 1% by volume of 

typical landfill gases (ATSDR 2001b). The Fresh Kills Landfill on Staten Island, New York has been 

estimated to release approximately 16 tons of hydrogen sulfide to the air annually (ATSDR 2000). 

Facilities that treat manure may also release hydrogen sulfide to the air. Hydrogen sulfide emissions were 

measured from two anaerobic lagoons used for treating swine waste; the overall mean hydrogen sulfide 

release was 5.7 μg/m2

/second (Lim et al. 2003). 

Carbonyl Sulfide. Estimated releases of 14.2 million pounds (~6,439 metric tons) of carbonyl sulfide to 

the atmosphere from 136 domestic manufacturing and processing facilities in 2014, accounted for about 

99% of the estimated total environmental releases from facilities required to report to the TRI (TRI14 

2015). These releases are summarized in Table 6-2. 

Section 112(b) of the Clean Air Act (CAA) lists carbonyl sulfide as one of 188 hazardous air pollutants 

(HAPs) (hydrogen sulfide was initially listed as well but since has been removed) known or suspected to 

cause cancer or other serious human health effects or ecosystem damage (EPA 2009d). EPA's National 

Emission Inventory (NEI) database contains data regarding sources that emit criteria air pollutants and 

their precursors, and HAPs for the 50 United States, Washington DC, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin 

Islands (prior to 1999, criteria pollutant emission estimates were maintained in the National Emission 

Trends [NET] database and HAP emission estimates were maintained in the National Toxics Inventory 

[NTI] database). The NEI database derives emission data from multiple sources including state and local 

environmental agencies, the TRI database, computer models for on-road and off-road emissions, and 

databases related to EPA's Maximum Achievable Control Technology (MACT) programs to reduce 

emissions of HAPs. Data downloaded from the 2008 and 2011 NEI indicated that the total emission of 

carbonyl sulfide was approximately 25.5 million pounds and 20.7 million pounds respectively, with the 
HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 158 

6. POTENTIAL FOR HUMAN EXPOSURE 

Table 6-2. Releases to the Environment from Facilities that Produce, Process, or
 

Use Carbonyl Sulfidea
 

Reported amounts released in pounds per yearb 

Total release 

On- and 

Statec RFd Aire Waterf UIg Landh Otheri On-sitej Off-sitek off-site 

AK 1 560 0 0 No data No data 560 No data 560 

AL 4 134,764 0 0 No data No data 134,764 No data 134,764 

AR 1 528 0 0 No data No data 528 No data 528 

CA 14 41,451 0 0 No data No data 41,451 No data 41,451 

DE 2 225,270 0 0 No data No data 225,270 No data 225,270 

HI 1 1,200 0 0 No data No data 1,200 No data 1,200 

IL 6 25,184 0 0 No data No data 25,184 No data 25,184 

IN 7 1,051,022 0 0 No data No data 1,051,022 No data 1,051,022 

KS 6 22,621 0 0 No data 80,159 22,621 80,159 102,780 

KY 3 1,079,995 0 0 No data No data 1,079,995 No data 1,079,995 

LA 19 336,082 964 0 84 No data 337,046 84 337,130 

MI 1 5 0 0 No data No data 5 No data 5 

MN 3 7,749 0 0 No data No data 7,749 No data 7,749 

MO 1 684,433 0 0 No data No data 684,433 No data 684,433 

MS 3 668,093 0 0 No data No data 668,093 No data 668,093 

MT 4 1,609 0 0 No data No data 1,609 No data 1,609 

ND 2 13,172 0 0 No data No data 13,172 No data 13,172 

NM 1 0 0 0 No data No data 0 No data 0 

NV 1 820 0 0 No data No data 820 No data 820 

NY 2 501,600 0 0 No data No data 501,600 No data 501,600 

OH 6 4,556,761 0 0 No data No data 4,556,761 No data 4,556,761 

OK 4 1,041 0 0 No data No data 1,041 No data 1,041 

PA 2 110,060 0 0 No data No data 110,060 No data 110,060 

SC 2 757,134 0 0 No data No data 757,134 No data 757,134 

TN 3 2,750,367 0 0 No data No data 2,750,367 No data 2,750,367 

TX 25 145,404 0 5 No data No data 145,409 No data 145,409 

UT 3 804 0 0 0 No data 804 0 804 

WA 6 993,299 0 0 No data No data 993,299 No data 993,299 
 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 159 

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Table 6-2. Releases to the Environment from Facilities that Produce, Process, or
 

Use Carbonyl Sulfidea

Reported amounts released in pounds per yearb 

Total release 

On- and 

Statec RFd Aire Waterf UIg Landh Otheri On-sitej Off-sitek off-site 

WI 1 202 0 0 No data No data 202 No data 202 

WY 2 3,636 0 0 No data No data 3,636 No data 3,636 

Total 136 14,114,864 964 5 84 80,159 14,115,834 80,243 14,196,077 

aThe TRI data should be used with caution since only certain types of facilities are required to report. This is not an 

exhaustive list. Data are rounded to nearest whole number.
 bData in TRI are maximum amounts released by each facility.
 cPost office state abbreviations are used.
 dNumber of reporting facilities.
 eThe sum of fugitive and point source releases are included in releases to air by a given facility.
 f

Surface water discharges, waste water treatment-(metals only), and publicly owned treatment works (POTWs) (metal
 

and metal compounds).
 gClass I wells, Class II-V wells, and underground injection.
 hResource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) subtitle C landfills; other onsite landfills, land treatment, surface 

impoundments, other land disposal, other landfills.
 i

Storage only, solidification/stabilization (metals only), other off-site management, transfers to waste broker for
 

disposal, unknown
 j

The sum of all releases of the chemical to air, land, water, and underground injection wells.
 kTotal amount of chemical transferred off-site, including to POTWs.
 

RF = reporting facilities; UI = underground injection 

Source: TRI14 2015 (Data are from 2014) 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 160 

6. POTENTIAL FOR HUMAN EXPOSURE 

biggest source arising from chemical manufacturing and oil and gas production (EPA 2013f, 2015a). 

Since hydrogen sulfide has been removed from the list of HAPs, no data exists for it in the NEI. The 

2011 NEI data are summarized in Table 6-3. 

The vast majority of carbonyl sulfide that enters the environment is released into the air (EPA 1994c, 

1994d). Of the sulfur-containing gases, carbonyl sulfide is the most abundant in the troposphere (Conrad 

and Meuser 2000; Meinrat et al. 1992; Simmons et al. 2012; Stimler et al. 2010). Carbonyl sulfide is a 

gas that can enter the atmosphere from both natural and anthropogenic sources (EPA 1994c, 1994d; 

Meinrat et al. 1992; Stimler et al. 2010). Natural sources account for the atmospheric release of 

approximately 4 billion pounds of carbonyl sulfide each year (EPA 1994c). Approximately 43% of 

atmospheric carbonyl sulfide is directly emitted from natural sources such as oceans, marshes, and 

volcanoes and an additional 35% derives from atmospheric transformation of carbon disulfide to carbonyl 

sulfide (Khalil and Rasmussen 1984). Thus, almost 80% of atmospheric carbonyl sulfide results from 

natural sources. Yearly emissions of carbonyl sulfide from oceans have been quantified as approximately 

8x1011 gm/year (0.8 Tg/year) (Rasmussen et al. 1982a) and 12.7 Gmol/year (0.41 Tg sulfur/year) 

(Meinrat et al. 1992). Biomass burning and coal-fired power plants account for about 12 and 5% of 

anthropogenic emissions of carbonyl sulfide, respectively (Khalil and Rasmussen 1984). Other 

anthropogenic sources including titanium dioxide manufacturing, carbon black manufacturing, petroleum 

refining, aluminum producing, and mineral wool manufacturing in the United States and elsewhere 

account collectively for only approximately 4% of total carbonyl sulfide levels (Chin and Davis 1993). 

The extraction of natural gas can result in the formation of carbonyl sulfide. When natural gas sources 

are saturated with water, hydrogen sulfide and carbon dioxide are formed (i.e., “sour gas”). These 

products undergo a hydrolysis reaction resulting in the formation of carbonyl sulfide and water. Using 

adsorbent materials for dehydration in this process is a significant factor in the creation of carbonyl 

sulfide (PERC 2001). Carbonyl sulfide is also found in the inlet gas to natural gas liquids recovery 

facilities, where it has a tendency to concentrate in the propane and propylene streams (ASTM 

International 2012; PERC 2001). 

Blake et al. (2004) quantified the carbonyl sulfide emissions from various anthropogenic sources from 

different countries located in Asia. Ranges (and total emission) resulting from the combustion of various 

fuels were as follows (conversion factor is 1 Gg/year=1,000 metric tons/year): coal, 0.048–4.4 Gg/year 
 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 161 

6. POTENTIAL FOR HUMAN EXPOSURE

Table 6-3. 2011 National Air Emissions for Carbonyl Sulfide 

Sector Air emissions in pounds 

Agriculture—livestock waste 0.112966 

Fires—prescribed fires 45,594.35 

Fires—wildfires 52,275.65 

Fuel combustion—commercial/institutional—natural gas 0.002 

Fuel combustion—commercial/institutional—other 17.36516 

Fuel combustion—electric generation, natural gas 18.858 

Fuel combustion—electric generation, other 227.5079 

Fuel combustion—industrial boilers, ICEs, coal 6,300 

Fuel combustion—industrial boilers, ICEs, natural gas 17,009 

Fuel combustion—industrial boilers, ICEs, oil 2,503 

Fuel combustion—industrial boilers, ICEs, other 10,776 

Gas stations 5 

Industrial processes—cement manufacturing 0 

Industrial processes—chemical manufacturing 8,464,191 

Industrial processes—not elsewhere classified 656,526 

Industrial processes—non-ferrous metals 4,365,423 

Industrial processes—oil and gas production 6,791,621 

Industrial processes—petroleum refineries 221,201.6 

Industrial processes—pulp and paper 44,543.54 

Industrial processes—storage and transfer 28,305.36 

Solvent—degreasing 21.1389 

Solvent—industrial surface coating and solvent use 5,300.1 

Waste disposal 21,188.27 

Total 20,733,048 

ICE = internal combustion engine 

Source: EPA 2015a 
 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 162 

6. POTENTIAL FOR HUMAN EXPOSURE 

(total emissions of 7.3 Gg/year); oil plants, 0.11–1.4 Gg/year (3.4 Gg/year); biofuel, 0.16–19.9 Gg/year 

(56.6 Gg/year); transport, 0.10–1.4 Gg/year (3.1 Gg/year); and biomass burning, 0.14–12.6 Gg/year 

(31.2 Gg/year). Emissions from industrial production ranged from 0.01 to 15.7 Gg/year (total emissions 

of 33.9 Gg/year, while landfills emissions were responsible for 0.0005–0.009 Gg/year (0.02 Gg/year). 

Agricultural sources included rice paddies, which had emissions ranging from 0.14 to 3.5 Gg/year (total 

emissions of 10.7 Gg/year), and animal feedlots, which had emissions ranging from 0.0002 to 

0.006 Gg/year (total emissions of 0.01 Gg/year). The total anthropogenic emissions of carbonyl sulfide in 

Asia were determined to be 146 Gg/year (Blake et al. 2004). 

6.2.2 Water 

Hydrogen Sulfide. Estimated releases of 543,028 pounds (~246 metric tons) of hydrogen sulfide to 

surface water from 516 domestic manufacturing and processing facilities in 2014, accounted for about 2% 

of the estimated total environmental releases from facilities required to report to the TRI (TRI14 2015). 

These releases are summarized in Table 6-1. 

Releases of hydrogen sulfide to water occur both naturally and as a result of human activity. Hydrogen 

sulfide released from aquatic plants or as a result of anaerobic chemical processes in swamps and bogs 

may dissolve in the water column or bind to clay or organic matter. Massive release of hydrogen sulfide 

to the ocean surface could occur during intervals of ocean anoxia (Kump et al. 2005). 

Facilities where hydrogen sulfide is produced, used, or generated include petroleum refineries, natural gas 

plants, petrochemical plants, coke oven plants, kraft paper mills, viscose rayon manufacturing plants, 

sulfur production plants, iron smelters, food processing plants, manure treatment facilities, landfills, 

textile plants, waste water treatment facilities, and tanneries (Beck et al. 1981; Chénard et al. 2003; Devai 

and DeLaune 1999; Grant and Schuman 1993; Lehman 1996; Rimatori et al. 1996; Sittig 2002; Svendsen 

2001). Hydrogen sulfide is also used as an agricultural disinfectant, in the production of heavy water, and 

as an additive in lubricants and cutting oils (Bingham et al. 2001; Sittig 2002; Weil and Sandler 1997). 

Hydrogen sulfide may also be encountered in various industrial processes including the manufacture of 

dyes and pigments, felt, and artificial silk; in farming, brewing, glue making, and rubber vulcanization; 

and in lithography and photoengraving (Beck et al. 1981; Grant and Schuman 1993; Sittig 2002). 

Discharge liquids from these and other activities can release hydrogen sulfide to receiving waters (EPA 

1993). 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 163 

6. POTENTIAL FOR HUMAN EXPOSURE

Carbonyl Sulfide. Estimated releases of 964 pounds (~0.44 metric tons) of carbonyl sulfide to surface 

water from 136 domestic manufacturing and processing facilities in 2014, accounted for <1% of the 

estimated total environmental releases from facilities required to report to the TRI (TRI14 2015). These 

releases are summarized in Table 6-2. 

Carbonyl sulfide is a gas and is therefore primarily released to water through atmospheric deposition. 

When released to water, carbonyl sulfide will dissolve and may react with the water to form hydrogen 

sulfide (EPA 1994c). When in water, it is expected to quickly volatilize to air (EPA 1994c). Oceans, in 

particular, are known to be a significant source of carbonyl sulfide to the atmosphere, with emissions 

calculated as approximately 8x1011 gm/year (800,000 metric tons/year) (Meinrat et al. 1992; Rasmussen 

et al. 1982a). 

6.2.3 Soil 

Hydrogen Sulfide. Estimated releases of 374,818 pounds (~170 metric tons) of hydrogen sulfide to soils 

from 516 domestic manufacturing and processing facilities in 2014, accounted for about 1% of the 

estimated total environmental releases from facilities required to report to the TRI (TRI14 2015). These 

releases are summarized in Table 6-1. An additional 4.5 million pounds (~2,037 metric tons) of hydrogen 

sulfide were injected underground representing approximately 17% of the estimated total environmental 

releases from facilities required to report to the TRI (TRI14 2015). 

Hydrogen sulfide may enter the soil through deposition from the atmosphere, migration of mobilized pore 

water, or from leaks and spills associated with manufacture, transport, or storage. Hydrogen sulfide is 

readily soluble in water and would exist as bisulfide or sulfide ions. Hydrogen sulfide can also form 

insoluble sulfide salts with various metals (i.e., copper, zinc, nickel, and iron) that may be present in soils 

(Pouliquen et al. 1989). 

Carbonyl Sulfide. Estimated releases of 84 pounds (~0.038 metric tons) of carbonyl sulfide to soils from 

136 domestic manufacturing and processing facilities in 2014, accounted for <1% of the estimated total 

environmental releases from facilities required to report to the TRI (TRI14 2015). These releases are 

summarized in Table 6-2. An additional 5 pounds of carbonyl sulfide were injected underground (TRI14 

2015). 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 164 

6. POTENTIAL FOR HUMAN EXPOSURE 

Like hydrogen sulfide, carbonyl sulfide may enter soil through atmospheric deposition. It does not bind 

well to soils and may be transported to groundwater. Carbonyl sulfide is typically released to air from 

both moist and dry soils (EPA 1994c). There is some discrepancy, however, amongst the literature as to 

whether soil is a source or a sink of carbonyl sulfide (Simmons et al. 2012). Previous studies labeled soil 

as a source of carbonyl sulfide to the atmosphere, as noted by Liu et al. (2007) and Simmons et al. (2012). 

However, more recent sources indicate the converse, that soil is a significant sink of atmospheric carbonyl 

sulfide (Kato et al. 2008; Liu et al. 2007, 2010; Simmons et al. 2012; Stimler et al. 2010). In particular, 

oxic soils are known to be a carbonyl sulfide sink (Liu et al. 2007, 2010). There is evidence that indicates 

that soils may be both sources and sinks of carbonyl sulfide (Conrad and Meuser 2000). 

Simmons et al. (2012) found that soils (both with and without vegetation) were carbonyl sulfide sinks. 

Consumption rates varied between 3.6 and 77.7 nmol/m2

-hour; both vegetation and microorganisms 

contributed to the uptake of carbonyl sulfide. When areas were treated with nitrogen or lime, the 

carbonyl sulfide consumption was increased by 30% over the control. A clear cut site took up 3.5 times 

more carbonyl sulfide than the control, whereas vegetated and water-saturated soils consumed carbonyl 

sulfide at 43 and 84% higher rates than the non-vegetated and unsaturated soils, respectively (Simmons et 

al. 2012). 

Release of carbonyl sulfide from soils to the atmosphere is influenced by the type of soil as well as soil 

temperature and water content (Liu et al. 2010). Liu et al. (2007) studied the exchange of carbonyl 

sulfide between lawn soil and the atmosphere. The uptake of carbonyl sulfide by lawn soil was correlated 

to temperature; it increased with temperature up to 298°K, and then decreased at higher temperatures. 

Water content also affected uptake rates, which increased with increasing water content to a maximum of 

12.5% and then decreased at higher water levels. The authors concluded that due to the nonlinear 

relationships of carbonyl sulfide uptake with temperature and water content, carbonyl sulfide content in 

soil is likely controlled by biological processes. In an experiment, approximately half of the carbonyl 

sulfide was transformed to water-soluble sulfates by way of hydrogen sulfide (Liu et al. 2007). 

Carbonyl sulfide release to the atmosphere from the soil of a temperate spruce forest in the Solling 

Mountains of Germany was examined in 1999 (Steinbacher et al. 2004). The results indicated a net flux 

of carbonyl sulfide into the soil from the atmosphere. Uptake rates of the soil were found to be 

0.81 pmol/m2

-second on average, with a range of 0.23–1.38 pmol/m2-second. The authors indicated that 

the carbonyl sulfide flux was slightly dependent on soil temperature and water content. 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 165 

6. POTENTIAL FOR HUMAN EXPOSURE 

Carbonyl sulfide exchange rates were determined in soils from a forest and former rape (Brassica napus) 

field in Germany. When carbonyl sulfide concentrations exceeded 5,000 ppt in the rape field, the uptake 

rate constant decreased, indicating carbonyl sulfide saturation. When concentrations exceeded 

50,000 ppt, the uptake rate constant increased, to which the authors attributed to a second consumption 

source of carbonyl sulfide. A similar process was found for the forest soil, where the uptake of carbonyl 

sulfide increased when concentrations were >4,000 ppt. When carbonyl sulfide concentrations were 

below the compensation concentrations of 785 and 1,470 ppt for the forest and rape field soils, 

respectively, the soil was considered a source of carbonyl sulfide to the atmosphere (Conrad and Meuser 

2000). 

6.3 ENVIRONMENTAL FATE 

6.3.1 Transport and Partitioning 

Hydrogen Sulfide. Since hydrogen sulfide exists as a gas at atmospheric pressure, partitioning to the air 

is likely to occur after environmental releases. However, the compound is also soluble in oil and water, 

and may therefore also partition to surface water, groundwater, or moist soil. In addition, sorption of 

hydrogen sulfide from air onto soil (Cihacek and Bremner 1993) and plant foliage (De Kok et al. 1983, 

1988, 1991) occurs. Hydrogen sulfide's solubility in pure water varies with temperature from 5.3 g/L at 

10°C to 3.2 g/L at 30°C (O'Neil et al. 2001). Once hydrogen sulfide is dissolved in water, it will 

dissociate into bisulfide ion (HS-

) and sulfide ion (S2-); the ratio of the concentrations of these various 

ions will depend on the pH of the solution. Hydrogen sulfide can also form insoluble sulfide salts with 

various metals (i.e., copper, zinc, nickel, and iron) that may be present in soils or environmental waters 

(Pouliquen et al. 1989). 

Hydrogen sulfide evaporates easily from water, and the rate of evaporation depends on factors such as 

temperature, humidity, pKa, pH, and the concentration of certain metal ions. Hydrogen sulfide will cross 

the air-water interface with kinetics similar to other unreactive gases (such as oxygen [O2], nitrogen [N2], 

and carbon dioxide [CO2]) at pH ≤6. At higher pH (such as seawater, which has a pH of ≥8) hydrogen 

sulfide escape is enhanced due to an ionic species gradient in the water close to the surface (Balls and 

Liss 1983). The Henry's law constant was determined under a variety of conditions for hydrogen sulfide 

dissolved in sewage or distilled water and was found to increase linearly with temperature, indicating an 

increasing tendency to partition to the gas phase (Al-Haddad et al. 1989; also see Table 4-2). Other 

factors found to affect the Henry's law constant in sewage were pH, pK, flow rate, and initial hydrogen 

sulfide concentration. Complexation of bisulfide and sulfide ions to trace metal ions (i.e., Zn2+, Co2+, and 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 166 

6. POTENTIAL FOR HUMAN EXPOSURE 

Ni2+) found in seawater will also have an effect on the transport of hydrogen sulfide across the air-water 

interface (Elliott and Rowland 1990). 

Clay or organic matter may sorb hydrogen sulfide. Smith et al. (1973) determined the sorption of 

hydrogen sulfide to six air-dried and moist soils in a laboratory study. The capacities of soil samples to 

sorb hydrogen sulfide ranged from 15.4 to 65.2 mg/g soil for the air-dried soils and from 11.0 to 

62.5 mg/g soil for the moist soils (50% water-holding capacity). Capacities and rates of sorption were not 

significantly affected by sterilization of the soil sample, indicating that soil microorganisms are not likely 

to be involved in the sorption process. The authors noted that these values, however, would not provide 

reliable estimates of the amounts of hydrogen sulfide that could be sorbed by soils under natural 

conditions, where the environmental fate of the sorbed hydrogen sulfide would have to be considered. 

Under natural conditions, it is likely that some of the hydrogen sulfide would be oxidized to sulfate, 

which may be removed by leaching or taken up by plants. This, in turn, may make gas sorption sites 

available for additional sorption (Smith et al. 1973). Cihacek and Bremner (1993) showed that soils can 

sorb considerable amounts of hydrogen sulfide from the air, retaining it as elemental sulfur. Several 

species of soil, aquatic, and marine microorganisms oxidize hydrogen sulfide to elemental sulfur; its halftime in these environments usually ranges from 1 hour to several hours (Jørgensen 1982). Food chain 

bioconcentration and biomagnification are unlikely. 

Carbonyl Sulfide. Carbonyl sulfide is a significant, non-volcanic source of sulfur in the upper 

atmosphere due to its long residence time and significant abundance in the troposphere (Blake et al. 2004; 

Simmons et al. 2012). Carbonyl sulfide can be removed from the atmosphere by terrestrial vegetation, 

soils, photolysis, and reaction with hydroxyl and oxygen radicals (all of which are considered to be major 

sinks of carbonyl sulfide) (Blake et al. 2004; Stimler et al. 2010). 

Carbonyl sulfide does not adsorb to soils, particularly those rich in organic material, and thus, it may enter 

groundwater. It is expected to volatilize rapidly from water and both dry and moist soil, and water may 

leach carbonyl sulfide from soils. When released to water, it will quickly dissipate to air (EPA 1994d; 

Meinrat et al. 1992). Bioconcentration of carbonyl sulfide is not expected in fish or other aquatic 

organisms, based on an estimated bioconcentration factor ranging from 2 to 11 (EPA 1994c, 1994d). 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 167 

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6.3.2 Transformation and Degradation 

6.3.2.1 Air 

Hydrogen Sulfide. In the atmosphere, hydrogen sulfide may be oxidized by oxygen (O2) and ozone (O3) 

to give sulfur dioxide (SO2), and ultimately sulfate compounds. Sulfur dioxide and sulfates are eventually 

removed from the atmosphere through absorption by plants, deposition on and sorption by soils, or 

through precipitation (Hill 1973). A residence time of approximately 1.7 days at an ozone concentration 

of 0.05 mg/m3 has been calculated for hydrogen sulfide (WHO 1981). The effective lifetimes for 

hydrogen sulfide based on summer daytime and yearly average hydroxyl radical concentrations have been 

estimated to be 0.23 and 2.3 days, respectively, based a measured rate constant of 4.8x10-12 cm3

/molecule 

second (Cox 1975). Lifetimes in air ranging from approximately 1 day in the summer to 42 days in the 

winter have been estimated for hydrogen sulfide (Bottenheim and Strausz 1980). Hydrogen sulfide is not 

expected to be decomposed by direct absorption of ultraviolet radiation and its reaction with ozone is not 

expected to be a significant environmental fate (Cox 1975). 

Carbonyl Sulfide. Carbonyl sulfide is considered to be fairly inert in the troposphere (Liu et al. 2007) 

and thus has the longest lifetime of an atmospheric sulfur species (Meinrat et al. 1992). It can undergo 

photolysis and reaction with hydroxyl and oxygen radicals, although both processes have been found to 

be very slow, or may not occur at all, in the troposphere (Blake et al. 2004; EPA 1994d; Stimler et al. 

2010). The lifetime of carbonyl sulfide in the troposphere has been reported as >1 year with a range of 2– 

10 years (Blake et al. 2004; EPA 1994d; Liu et al. 2007; Meinrat et al. 1992; Stimler et al. 2010). 

Due to its long residence time in the troposphere, carbonyl sulfide transports into the stratosphere, where 

photolysis and reaction with oxygen as well as photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals is thought to 

be a major route of atmospheric degradation (EPA 1994d; Meinrat et al. 1992; Stimler et al. 2010). A 

stratospheric aerosol is formed as a result of these processes which generates a sulfate aerosol layer in the 

stratosphere that remains present even in the absence of volcanic activity (Conrad and Meuser 2000; Liu 

et al. 2007; Meinrat et al. 1992; Simmons et al. 2012; Stimler et al. 2010). The sulfate aerosol layer can 

affect the radiation budget of the earth and may result in increased depletion of the stratospheric ozone 

layer (Conrad and Meuser 2000; Liu et al. 2007; Meinrat et al. 1992; Simmons et al. 2012). Additionally, 

carbonyl sulfide is oxidized to sulfur dioxide in the troposphere and/or the stratosphere (which may also 

have an impact on climate change) (Blake et al. 2004). Carbonyl sulfide can be also removed from the 

atmosphere by uptake in terrestrial vegetation and soils (Blake et al. 2004; EPA 1994d; Stimler et al. 

2010). 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 168 

6. POTENTIAL FOR HUMAN EXPOSURE 

6.3.2.2 Water 

Hydrogen Sulfide. In aqueous solution, hydrogen sulfide is a weak acid, exhibiting two acid dissociation 

constants. The first dissociation yields bisulfide ion (HS–

) and the second yields sulfide ion (S2–); the pKa 

values for each of these dissociations of 7.04 and 11.96, respectively (O'Neil et al. 2001). At a pH of 7.0, 

the ratio of the concentration of aqueous hydrogen sulfide to bisulfate ion is approximately 1-to-1. As the 

pH increases above 7.0, the ratio of the concentration of bisulfide ion to aqueous hydrogen sulfide 

increases. At a pH of 8, the ratio of the concentration of bisulfide ion to the concentration of aqueous 

hydrogen sulfide is approximately 10-to-1. The relative concentration of sulfide ion does not begin to 

increase until a pH of 11 is exceeded; only above pH 12 will the concentration of sulfide ion become 

significant (>50%). 

Hydrogen sulfide oxidation by O2 readily occurs in surface waters. At 25°C and pH 8, half-times of 

50 and 26 hours were reported for hydrogen sulfide in water and seawater, respectively. Above pH 8, 

however, the rate of oxidation was independent of pH (Millero et al. 1987). Using a hydrogen peroxide 

concentration of 1x10-7 M as found in surface seawater, the half-time for sulfide oxidation by peroxide in 

seawater would be 2,800 hours. Only at hydrogen peroxide concentrations >10-5 M (such as found in 

rainwaters) would the oxidation of hydrogen sulfide by hydrogen peroxide become competitive with the 

oxidation by oxygen (Millero et al. 1989). Hydrogen sulfide in waste water may be controlled by 

addition of oxidizing chemicals, which react to form less toxic byproducts (Tomar and Abdullah 1994). 

In warm, damp environments (such as manholes and gravity sewers), hydrogen sulfide may be oxidized 

by autotrophic bacteria to sulfuric acid (Boon 1992). Chemical oxidation of hydrogen sulfide dissolved 

in sewage water produces sulfur at pH 6–7, while sulfur, polysulfides, thiosulfates, and ultimately sulfate 

are formed at pH 7–9 (Boon 1992). 

Carbonyl Sulfide. Carbonyl sulfide is rapidly removed from water through volatilization. Volatilization 

of carbonyl sulfide from a model river was found to have an estimated half-life of 2.3 hours (EPA 1994d). 

As it can dissolve in water and does not adsorb well to soils, sediments, or suspended organic matter, 

carbonyl sulfide may migrate to groundwater (EPA 1994c, 1994d). 

Carbonyl sulfide was found to hydrolyze slowly in water, where it forms hydrogen sulfide and carbon 

dioxide (EPA 1994c, 1994d; PERC 2001). In the presence of water, carbonyl sulfide is corrosive to 

metals (Weil and Sandler 1997). 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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6.3.2.3 Sediment and Soil 

Hydrogen Sulfide. Hydrogen sulfide is one of the principal components in the natural sulfur cycle. 

Bacteria, fungi, and actinomycetes (fungus-like bacteria) release hydrogen sulfide during the 

decomposition of sulfur containing proteins and by the direct reduction of sulfate (SO4

2-). Hydrogen 

sulfide is also consumed by bacteria found in soil and water that oxidize hydrogen sulfide to elemental 

sulfur. Photosynthetic bacteria can oxidize hydrogen sulfide to sulfur and sulfate in the presence of light 

and the absence of oxygen (EPA 1993; WHO 1981). A number of microorganisms have been found to 

degrade hydrogen sulfide to elemental sulfur or sulfate. Among these are a heterotrophic bacterium of the 

genus Xanthomonas isolated from dimethyl disulfide-acclimated peat (Cho et al. 1992), heterotrophic 

fungi (Phae and Shoda 1991), and a marine isopod (Vismann 1991). Soils may sorb considerable 

amounts of hydrogen sulfide from the air, retaining most of it in the form of elemental sulfur. Manganese 

compound found in these soils appeared to catalyze the oxidation of hydrogen sulfide to elemental sulfur 

(Cihacek and Bremner 1993). 

Carbonyl Sulfide. Carbonyl sulfide does not adsorb to soils and sediments and will volatilize rapidly 

from both dry and moist soil. It is highly mobile in soil and may be transported out of soil by water (EPA 

1994c, 1994d). 

Carbonyl sulfide has been found to degrade in soil (Kato et al. 2008). A study by Kato et al. (2008) found 

that Mycobacterium spp. in soil degraded ambient carbonyl sulfide. One strain (THI401) degraded 

30 ppm by volume of carbonyl sulfide in 1 hour, decreasing 60% of the initial amount by abiotic 

conversion in 30 hours. Testing was performed at an ambient carbonyl sulfide concentration of 500 ppt in 

sterilized soil samples. While it was emitted from the soil during testing, the Mycobacterium spp. was 

found to degrade the carbonyl sulfide more quickly than it was emitted (Kato et al. 2008). 

6.3.2.4 Other Media 

Carbonyl Sulfide. Uptake of carbonyl sulfide by various biological organisms may be driven by carbonic 

anhydrase, which is a key enzyme that splits carbonyl sulfide in vivo into carbon dioxide and hydrogen 

sulfide (Liu et al. 2007). 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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6.4 LEVELS MONITORED OR ESTIMATED IN THE ENVIRONMENT 

Reliable evaluation of the potential for human exposure to hydrogen sulfide and carbonyl sulfide depends 

in part on the reliability of supporting analytical data from environmental samples and biological 

specimens. Concentrations of hydrogen sulfide and carbonyl sulfide in unpolluted atmospheres and in 

pristine surface waters are often so low as to be near the limits of current analytical methods. In 

reviewing data on hydrogen sulfide and carbonyl sulfide levels monitored or estimated in the 

environment, it should also be noted that the amount of chemical identified analytically is not necessarily 

equivalent to the amount that is bioavailable. The analytical methods available for monitoring hydrogen 

sulfide and carbonyl sulfide in a variety of environmental media are detailed in Chapter 7. 

6.4.1 Air 

Hydrogen Sulfide. The concentration of hydrogen sulfide in air can be represented using various 

concentration units. All air monitoring data reported herein are reported in or have been converted into 

ppm or ppb for ease of comparison. The conversion factors are: 1 ppm=1.40 mg/m3 and 

1 ppb=1.40 μg/m3

. 

Hydrogen sulfide ambient air concentrations from natural sources have been estimated to be between 

0.11 and 0.33 ppb (EPA 1993). In an unpolluted area of Colorado, concentrations between 0.02 and 

0.07 ppb were measured (Hill 1973). Near ground level, samples taken around a sulfurous New Zealand 

lake charged by an active underground geothermal vent had average hydrogen sulfide levels in the range 

of 0.125–3.9 ppm, which produced no visible adverse effects on indigenous bird or plant populations 

(Siegel et al. 1986). Hydrogen sulfide concentrations in air in remote marine environments are reported 

to be highly variable, ranging from 0.001 to 0.1 ppb (Elliott and Rowland 1990). Concentrations of 

hydrogen sulfide in urban areas are generally <1 ppb (Svendsen 2001). Hydrogen sulfide concentrations 

>90 ppb were measured during several intermittent periods in the Conimicut Point neighborhood in 

Warwick, Rhode Island that resulted from rotting seaweed and shellfish from a "die-off" of aquatic plants 

and animals that occurred in August 2003 in parts of the eastern Narragansett Bay. The concentration of 

hydrogen sulfide in the residential areas varied over time, depending on the tides, winds, and weather 

(Fulton et al. 2003). 

Indoor air was monitored in five residential homes in the Dakota City/South Sioux City area in Nebraska 

from April 2 to May 15, 1997. Hydrogen sulfide was routinely found in the indoor air of these homes. In 

general, hydrogen sulfide was found to not exceed 90 ppb (which was the upper detection limit for the 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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measuring device used in this monitoring study). However, at one home, hydrogen sulfide was found to 

exceed the upper detection limit for periods of 20 minutes to >3 hours on 10 of the 30 days of sampling 

(ATSDR 1997). 

Durand and Scott (2005) monitored nine properties in the Rotorua geothermal field area in New Zealand 

for various geothermal gases, including hydrogen sulfide. These buildings or the site had a history of 

geothermal gases penetrating to the inside of the buildings. All buildings in this study were found to have 

chronic contamination of the indoor air by hydrogen sulfide, with the entry of the gas through cracks in 

floors and subsurface ducts as the most common means of entry. The highest levels of hydrogen sulfide 

were reported to be emitted from a vent in a concrete floor of a residential property at 435 ppm. In 

another location, two interior hydrogen sulfide vents were found, with one vent containing hydrogen 

sulfide at >200 ppm and the other at 2.9–4.1 ppm (Durand and Scott 2005). 

In early 1999, ATSDR and EPA conducted a 12-month hydrogen sulfide monitoring program in Dakota 

City. Sixteen hydrogen sulfide monitors were stationed in selected locations around the Dakota City area. 

White et al. (1999) noted that the frequency and concentration of hydrogen sulfide levels in Dakota City 

were higher than in a typical urban setting. During 6 months in 1999, peak hydrogen sulfide 

concentrations >90 ppb (the upper detection limit) were recorded at four monitoring locations, and three 

of these locations had multiple peak concentrations exceeding 90 ppb. Multiple peak levels in the range 

of 30–50 ppb were recorded for other residential areas. For three monitoring locations that were distant 

from a known source of hydrogen sulfide, peak levels of 9 and 19 ppb were recorded while most 

measurements were below the detection limit of 2 ppb (White et al. 1999). 

An air monitoring study at a waste water treatment plant in Australia found time-averaged hydrogen 

sulfide levels of 1–2 ppm near the primary clarifiers and inlet structure, and levels <1 ppm at various 

other locations in the 10-hectare plant site (Koe 1985). Hydrogen sulfide was not detected by airsampling instruments located around the perimeter of a landfill in Ohio after a major landslide occurred in 

March 1996 (Ingram et al. 1997). In a study to determine the quantity and composition of reduced sulfur 

gases (including hydrogen sulfide) being released to the atmosphere at waste water treatment plants in 

Baton Rouge, Louisiana at various steps of the treatment process, hydrogen sulfide was found to be the 

dominant sulfur compound emitted. The concentrations of hydrogen sulfide were typically <7.5 ppm 

sulfur, with concentrations ranging from 0.013 ppm sulfur (central treatment plant final effluent box) up 

to 340 ppm sulfur (central treatment plant digester dome of the floating roof) (Devai and DeLaune 1999). 

The hydrogen sulfide concentration in the atmosphere of a Norwegian sewage purification plant was 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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generally below 2 ppm; however, a peak concentration of 100 ppm was detected (Søstrand et al. 2000). 

As part of the 1997 Fresh Kills Air Monitoring Program, >140,000 observations of ambient air were 

collected over a 2-month period at 16 locations on Staten Island, New York. Hydrogen sulfide was 

measured at detectable levels in only about half of the samples, with measured levels ranging from 2 ppb 

(the detection limit) to 33 ppb (ATSDR 2000). 

Hydrogen sulfide concentrations in air can vary widely during manure management activities. Levels of 

hydrogen sulfide in air in pig barns during normal operations are generally <5 ppm. However, 

concentrations can rapidly rise up to 800 ppm inside manure transfer pits or lift stations when the manure 

is agitated; additionally, the hydrogen sulfide can back up into pig rooms through open pits or piping. 

Concentrations of hydrogen sulfide have been shown to increase from very low levels to 1,300 ppm in 

deep-pit buildings when manure is agitated (Chénard et al. 2003). 

The concentrations of sulfur compounds (including hydrogen sulfide) were measured in the air at four 

paper pulp mills using the kraft (sulfate) process. In this process, steam, high temperature, high pressure, 

and a solution containing sodium hydroxide and sodium sulfide are used to digest wood chips. Various 

sulfur gases are produced during this process. Hydrogen sulfide concentrations ranged from not detected 

(<0.2 ppm) to 35 ppm at various emission sources in the continuous digester, batch digester, and pulp 

washing areas. In general, hydrogen sulfide was not detected in ambient air sampled at these plants 

(Goyer 1990). A survey of occupational exposure in nonproduction departments of pulp, paper, and 

paper product mills from 147 mills in 11 countries found that hydrogen sulfide was below the detection 

limit in 45% of the 20 measurements taken at 6 mills. A mean concentration of 2.9 ppm was reported, 

with a maximum value of 53 ppm and a lowest detected value of 0.04 ppm (Teschke et al. 1999). The 

concentrations of various pollutants were measured in the air of five textile factories (which included 

three weaving and dyeing factories and two clothing factories); hydrogen sulfide concentrations ranged 

from <0.007 to 1.32 ppm (Rimatori et al. 1996). 

Ten air samples were collected for hydrogen sulfide at the World Trade Center disaster site in New York 

City between September 18 and October 4, 2001. Concentrations ranged from not detected (3 of the 

10 samples) to 3.0 ppm (Wallingford and Snyder 2001). 

Some U.S. homes built between 2001 and 2008 contain imported drywall, also known as “Chinese 

drywall or problem drywall”. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission conducted an emission 

and corrosion study of 51 homes. Indoor air concentrations of hydrogen sulfide were significantly higher 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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in homes reporting drywall-related complaints with a mean concentration of 0.66 ppb (0.19–2.33 ppb) 

compared with a mean concentration 0f 0.45 ppb (0.2–2.23 ppb) in non-complaint homes (CPSC 2010a). 

The Air Quality System (AQS) database is EPA's repository of criteria air pollutant and hazardous air 

pollutants monitoring data. Detailed air monitoring data for carbonyl sulfide was not located; however, 

data were reported for hydrogen sulfide. Table 6-4 illustrates the annual mean percentile distributions of 

hydrogen sulfide from monitoring sites in the United States for years 2010–2015. Data for previous years 

and other pollutants may also be obtained from the AQS website; however, no data for carbonyl sulfide 

were located in the AQS. 

Carbonyl Sulfide. Carbonyl sulfide is the most prevalent, longest-lived sulfur-containing gas in the 

troposphere (Blake et al. 2004; Conrad and Meuser 2000; Meinrat et al. 1992; Stimler et al. 2010). 

Global mean concentrations in the troposphere have been reported as 500–510 ppt (Blake et al. 2004; 

Conrad and Meuser 2000; Meinrat et al. 1992). 

Carbonyl sulfide concentrations in the ambient air were reported for several urban and rural areas in the 

United States. Air concentrations in the rural areas ranged from 0.11 to 0.33 ppb. Concentrations of 

carbonyl sulfide in air from urban areas were as follows: 0.18 ppb (Philadelphia, Pennsylvania); 

0.496 ppb (Wallops Island, Virginia); and 0.56 ppb (Lawton, Oklahoma). Carbonyl sulfide air 

concentrations over salt marshes (one of the main natural sources of carbonyl sulfide) ranged from 

approximately 25 to 740 ppb, while air samples from over the ocean ranged from 5.7 to 7.8 ppb (EPA 

1994d). 

Carbonyl sulfide concentrations in air were measured over the western pacific and Asia in the spring of 

2001. Concentrations over the western Pacific were found to decrease 10% from the surface to 8–10 km 

in altitude. It was thought that terrestrial carbonyl sources dominated the output during the springtime of 

that year. A mean carbonyl sulfide concentration of 580 ppt was measured below 2 km in altitude near 

the coast of Asia, which coincided with the area where air from urban Asia had the most impact (Blake et 

al. 2004). 

Rasmussen et al. (1982a) collected air samples in both the North Atlantic and Pacific oceans. The 

concentrations of carbonyl sulfide from the samples were nearly uniform, and thus, an average value of 

472±86 ppt was reported (Rasmussen et al. 1982a). 
 

 

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Table 6-4. Percentile Distribution of Annual Mean Hydrogen Sulfide
 

Concentrations (ppm) Measured in Ambient Air at Locations
 

Across the United States
 

Number of U.S. 

Year locations 25th 50th 75th 95th Maximum 

2010 22 0.00084 0.0010 0.0013 0.0036 0.0038 

2011 21 0.00078 0.0010 0.0013 0.0034 0.0057 

2012 22 0.00086 0.00010 0.0012 0.0026 0.0063 

2013 23 0.0010 0.0010 0.0011 0.0025 0.0056 

2014 23 0.00076 0.0010 0.0012 0.0023 0.0052 

2015a 14 0.00073 0.00099 0.0010 0.0026 0.0028 

aData from January 1, 2015 to June 20, 2015. 

Source: EPA 2015b 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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6.4.2 Water 

Hydrogen Sulfide. Hydrogen sulfide readily evaporates from surface waters and is not likely to persist in 

highly oxygenated waters; levels in these environments are expected to be low. Groundwater samples 

from an area receiving acid-mine drainage in Colorado averaged 0.9 ppm of hydrogen sulfide, while 

samples from a power plant site averaged 0.03 ppm (Patterson and Runnells 1992). 

Accurate measurements of hydrogen sulfide water levels are usually complicated by the presence of other 

sulfide compounds. At pH ≥7, hydrogen sulfide is significantly dissociated, and the exact source of 

sulfide would not necessarily be known. A method of determining sulfide concentration in unspecified 

waste water by first transforming it to hydrogen sulfide and then measuring the atomic absorption of the 

product yielded results ranging from 3.1 to 5.1 ppm of sulfide sulfur (Parvinen and Lajunen 1994). Total 

sulfide levels in samples from the Mississippi River were about 0.92 ppm, while levels in pond and well 

water in St. Paul, Minnesota were 1.6 and 1.9 ppm, respectively (Slooff et al. 1991). 

Nearshore hydrogen sulfide eruptions occur in the Atlantic Ocean along the central coast of Nambia. 

Dissolved hydrogen sulfide concentrations were found to range from <0.02 to 3.39 ppm in water sampled 

at various depths during eruption events that occurred during 2001–2002 (Weeks et al. 2004). 

Carbonyl Sulfide. Surface water samples from temperate and subtropical North Atlantic regions and the 

Gulf of Mexico were found to be supersaturated with carbonyl sulfide with respect to atmospheric 

equilibrium. Carbonyl sulfate concentrations followed a diel pattern. The highest concentrations were 

measured in coastal and shelf water samples. Concentrations of carbonyl sulfide were determined for 

various biogeographic regions, including oligotrophic, transition, upwelling, and coastal/shelf as 13, 24, 

27, and 112 pmol/L, respectively. Fluxes for the same regions were calculated as 0.9, 1.6, 2.3, and 

7.9 Gmol/L, respectively. The total carbonyl sulfide concentration from the study was determined to be 

32 pmol/L. The total flux of carbonyl sulfide to the atmosphere from the oceans was estimated to be 

12.7 Gmol/year (0.41 Tg sulfur/year). The authors found that the concentration as well as the flux of 

carbonyl sulfide between the ocean and the atmosphere was highly dependent on marine productivity 

(Meinrat et al. 1992). 

Carbonyl sulfide has also been identified in waste water at treatment plants. Carbonyl sulfide, along with 

hydrogen sulfide and methyl mercaptans, are responsible for the odors that emanate from such facilities 

(Sattler and Rosenberk 2006). 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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6.4.3 Sediment and Soil 

Hydrogen Sulfide. Hydrogen sulfide levels as high as 11.7 ppm in soil water were measured in 

Louisiana rice fields (Hollis 1985). The hydrogen sulfide in these samples was presumably bound to 

colloidal clay or organic matter, as these levels were higher than typical solubility would predict and were 

not accompanied by the characteristic hydrogen sulfide odor. Sediment pore water from the Grand 

Calumet River in an industrialized area of Indiana contained 0.2–1.5 ppb of hydrogen sulfide (Hoke et al. 

1993). In general, undisturbed anoxic sediment pore water may contain up to 100 ppb hydrogen sulfide, 

while disturbed sediments typically contain pore water concentrations of 1–30 ppb (Dillon et al. 1993). 

Carbonyl Sulfide. Carbonyl sulfide concentrations in soil from a forested area and a former rape (B. 

napus) field were found to range from 250 to 120,000 ppt (Conrad and Meuser 2000). 

6.4.4 Other Environmental Media 

Hydrogen Sulfide. Hydrogen sulfide is commonly found in coal, petroleum, and natural gas deposits and 

may be mobilized by human manipulation of these resources. Coal gasification (a process whereby coal 

is subjected to heat and steam treatment to produce a convenient energy source) results in a gas product 

consisting of up to 1% hydrogen sulfide (Barik et al. 1987). Hydrogen sulfide was identified as a 

component in the vapor phase of cigarette smoke (Dong et al. 2000), and was found in the emissions of 

gasoline vehicles (Collier et al. 2002). 

Hydrogen sulfide formation has been demonstrated in pediatric intravenous amino acid solutions used to 

treat infants with high protein requirements (Decsi and Koletzko 1993). Levels up to 1.96 ppm were 

found, presumably formed by sulfide liberation from cysteine derivatives during heat sterilization. 

Similar chemical reactions may explain the presence of hydrogen sulfide in dental plaque (Tonzetich and 

Carpenter 1971). Meat products may be contaminated with hydrogen sulfide-producing bacteria, 

resulting in off-odors and spoilage (McMeekin and Patterson 1975). 

Hydrogen sulfide is produced in the large intestine of mammals by metabolism of sulfhydryl proteins by 

anaerobic bacteria, and may compose up to 10% of intestinal gases (Beauchamp et al. 1984; EPA 1978). 

Hydrogen sulfide was found in the gas produced by feces of infants; levels were found to vary based on 

the types of diets the infants were fed and the age of the infants. Fecal gas production for infants aged 1– 

3 months was 372–833, 73–371, and 1,904–2,540 nmol/g (12.7–28.3, 2.5–12.6, and 65.8–86.4 μg/g) dry 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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weight for infants fed breast milk, milk-based formula, and soy based formula, respectively (Jiang et al. 

2001). Fecal sulfide concentrations in 15 adult volunteers ranged from 110 to 720 nmol/g (3.74– 

24.5 μg/g) wet weight. Fecal sulfide concentrations were found to increase significantly from 160 to 

750 nmol/g (5.4–26 μg/g) when subjects were fed diets containing increasing amounts of meat. Sulfide 

concentrations in whole-blood samples from six healthy adults were found to range from 10 to 

100 μmol/L (0.3–3 μg/mL). When increasing amounts of protein from meat were added to the diet of 

these subjects, blood sulfide concentrations did not change significantly (Richardson et al. 2000). 

Hydrogen sulfide is also produced in the human mouth by microbial putrefaction (Rosenberg et al. 1991). 

Mean sulfide levels in human brainstem controls were reported as 0.69 and 0.59 μg/g for males (n=36) 

and females (n=9), respectively. Sulfide concentrations of 0.91 and 1.04 μg/g were reported in 

brainstems from two suspected hydrogen sulfide inhalation fatalities (Goodwin et al. 1989). 

Concentrations of sulfide in the blood, brain, lung, and femoral muscle of a victim of a fatal hydrogen 

sulfide poisoning were 0.45 μg/mL, 2.72 μg/g, 0.42 μg/g, and 0.16 μg/g, respectively. The victim was 

kept at 0°C until autopsy, 20 hours after death; these conditions were expected to significantly suppress 

sulfide production due to putrefaction (Kage et al. 1998). Blood sulfide levels at 4 μg/mL were found in 

an individual who died while working at a treatment, storage, and disposal facility for hazardous waste 

materials. Sulfide levels were also analyzed in tissue samples and confirmed that the blood sulfide 

concentrations could not be attributed to cellular decay. Through an investigation by OSHA, it was 

determined that high concentrations of hydrogen sulfide were apparently generated during the waste acid 

neutralization process (Smith and Cummins 2004). 

Hydrogen sulfide was detected in emission testing of drywall samples. In the 30 samples, hydrogen 

sulfide emissions ranged from not detected to 200.60 μg-S/m2

/hour) (CPSC 2010b). 

Carbonyl Sulfide. Emission tests of drywall samples have detected a number of reactive sulfur 

compounds, including hydrogen sulfide and carbonyl sulfide. The levels of carbonyl sulfide in the 

30 drywall samples tested ranged from not detected to 4.25 μg-S/m2

/hour (CPSC 2010b). 

6.5 GENERAL POPULATION AND OCCUPATIONAL EXPOSURE 

Hydrogen Sulfide. Primary exposure of the general population to hydrogen sulfide most likely occurs 

through inhalation of ambient air. As hydrogen sulfide is part of the natural environment, the general 

population will have some exposure to hydrogen sulfide. Hydrogen sulfide is produced in the human 

large intestine by the bacterial reduction of inorganic sulfate and sulfite, and by fermentation of sulfur­
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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containing amino acids, cysteine, and methionine (Richardson et al. 2000); it can compose up to 10% of 

intestinal gases (EPA 1978). Hydrogen sulfide is produced by the natural bacteria found in the human 

mouth, and is a component of bad breath (halitosis) (Rosenberg et al. 1991). 

Hydrogen sulfide may occur naturally in well water, and can be formed in hot water heaters, giving 

household hot tap water an unpleasant odor. Formation of hydrogen sulfide can occur by the reduction of 

sulfates in the water by sulfur bacteria (which can thrive in the warm environment of the hot water heater) 

or by reaction with the magnesium anode in the hot water heater tank (MDH 2004). Populations living in 

areas of geothermal activity, near waste sites or industries such as petroleum refineries, natural gas plants, 

petrochemical plants, coke oven plants, kraft paper mills, food processing plants, landfills, manure 

treatment facilities, waste water treatment facilities, and tanneries may be more likely to be exposed to 

higher levels of hydrogen sulfide. Geothermal gases (including hydrogen sulfide) were found to be 

entering buildings in Rotorua, New Zealand directly from the ground through floors, walls and subsurface 

pipes; indoor vents emitting up to approximately 200 ppm were reported (Durand and Scott 2005). The 

general population may also be exposed to hydrogen sulfide by accidental release ("blowout") from 

natural gas wells during drilling operations near residential areas (Layton and Cederwall 1986; Leahey 

and Schroeder 1986). Exposures to hydrogen sulfide have occurred through the mixing of acid and basic 

drain cleaners and through the use of acid drain cleaner to remove sludge-clogged drains, but these 

incidents are thought to be rare (Oderda 1975). 

Residents of the Conimicut Point neighborhood in Warwick, Rhode Island were exposed to hydrogen 

sulfide from rotting seaweed and shellfish caused by a "die-off" of aquatic plants and animals that 

occurred on August 20, 2003 in parts of the eastern Narragansett Bay. The concentration of hydrogen 

sulfide in the residential areas varied over time, depending on the tides, winds, and weather. During the 

week of September 15, 2003, the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management measured 

several intermittent periods when hydrogen sulfide concentrations were >90 ppb (Fulton et al. 2003). 

Emissions from the Fresh Kills Landfill on Staten Island, New York, which contain hydrogen sulfide, are 

blown by prevailing winds into nearby neighborhoods (ATSDR 2000). 

Workers may be occupationally exposed to hydrogen sulfide from fermenting manure (Chénard et al. 

2003; Morse et al. 1981), stagnant wells (McDonald and McIntosh 1951), areas of waste-water treatment 

facilities (NIOSH 1980, 1984, 1985a, 1985c, 1990), extruded rubber plants (NIOSH 1985b), landfills 

(Lehman 1996), textile industries (Rimatori et al. 1996), and petroleum refineries (NIOSH 1982a, 1982b). 

Facilities where hydrogen sulfide can be generated include petroleum refineries, natural gas plants, 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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petrochemical plants, coke oven plants, kraft paper mills, viscose rayon manufacturing plants, sulfur 

production facilities, iron smelters, food processing plants, and tanneries (Svendsen 2001). Major 

occupational exposures to hydrogen sulfide have resulted from its presence as a byproduct of chemical 

reactions that may take place in viscose rayon and leather tanning processes (ACGIH 1991). Hydrogen 

sulfide is also used as an agricultural disinfectant and as an additive in lubricants and cutting oils 

(Bingham et al. 2001; Sittig 2002). Hydrogen sulfide may also be encountered in various industrial 

processes including the manufacture of dyes and pigments, felt, rayon and artificial silk; in brewing, glue 

making, and rubber vulcanization; and in lithography and photoengraving (Beck et al. 1981; Grant and 

Schuman 1993; Sittig 2002). Hydrogen sulfide levels were measured using personal monitors worn by 

farm workers in Norway during 1992–1996 while performing various tasks, such as handling of harvest, 

tending to animals, and handling of manure. Hydrogen sulfide was only detectable in 7 out of 

23 measurements with a range of peak values of 0.2–6 ppm (Eduard et al. 2001). 

In the most recent annual report of national poison control centers (2012) compiled from 57 centers, there 

were 809 reports of hydrogen sulfide exposure (Mowry et al. 2013). Approximately 42% of the 

exposures resulted in no or minor outcomes, 12% had moderate outcomes, 1.6% had major outcomes, and 

there were five deaths (0.6%). The numbers of reported hydrogen sulfide exposures were higher in the 

2010 (1,054 cases), 2005 (1,396 cases), 2000 (1,382 cases), and 1995 (1,407 cases) annual reports 

(Bronstein et al. 2011; Lai et al. 2006; Litovitz et al. 1996, 2001). The outcome severity was similar for 

the different reporting years, with the exception that no deaths were reported in 1995. 

Carbonyl Sulfide. Exposure of the general population to carbonyl sulfide is primarily through inhalation 

of ambient air. Carbonyl sulfide is a component of the global sulfur cycle and exists in the atmosphere at 

high concentrations (Conrad and Meuser 2000; Meinrat et al. 1992; Simmons et al. 2012; Stimler et al. 

2010; Wright 2000). It is released to the atmosphere from various natural and anthropogenic sources, 

including wetlands, soil, trees, volcanic gases, oceans, biomass burning, aluminum production, 

combustion of coal, extraction of gas and oil, automobiles, and chemical processing, among others 

(ASTM International 2012; Blake et al. 2004; EPA 1994c, 1994d; Meinrat et al. 1992; PERC 2001; 

Rasmussen et al. 1982a, 1982b; Stimler et al. 2010). Due to these numerous sources, there is constant 

exposure to low levels of carbonyl sulfide (Wright 2000). The frequency and duration of exposure 

influences the effect carbonyl sulfide has on human health (EPA 1994c). 

Carbonyl sulfide may be used as a fumigant for commodities and structures, which could potentially 

result in exposure to the general population. Wheat, oats, barley, and canola (which have natural, 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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background carbonyl sulfide levels ranging from 0.05 to 0.1 mg/kg) can be treated with carbonyl sulfide 

to increase insect resistance. An Australian study, however, found that post fumigation carbonyl sulfide 

residues used in wheat, oat, barley, and canola field trials were less than the Australian maximum residue 

level of 0.2 mg/kg after being aired for 4 hours. Consequently, the study concluded that carbonyl sulfide 

is completely removed from commodities after fumigation and concentrations in grains and seeds are not 

discernible from levels in untreated grains. Carbonyl sulfide is rapidly desorbed after fumigation (Wright 

2000). Exposure may also result from natural levels of carbonyl sulfide found in foods, such as cheese 

and vegetables in the cabbage family (Wright 2000). 

In occupational settings, exposure to carbonyl sulfide is mainly inhalation from its production and use as 

a chemical intermediate (EPA 1994d), such as in the viscose rayon industry (Kamstrup and Hugod 1979). 

It is also a byproduct in petroleum refining and coal distillation, and thus, workers in gas production and 

distribution facilities may be exposed to carbonyl sulfide in higher concentrations than the general public 

(Khalil and Rasmussen 1984). As carbonyl sulfide targets the central nervous system and can result in 

narcotic effects and respiratory paralysis (Chase et al. 2010; Lewis 2007), monitoring is important to warn 

those in enclosed facilities of carbonyl sulfide releases (Chase et al. 2010). 

6.6 EXPOSURES OF CHILDREN 

This section focuses on exposures from conception to maturity at 18 years in humans. Differences from 

adults in susceptibility to hazardous substances are discussed in Section 3.7, Children’s Susceptibility. 

Children are not small adults. A child’s exposure may differ from an adult’s exposure in many ways. 

Children drink more fluids, eat more food, breathe more air per kilogram of body weight, and have a 

larger skin surface in proportion to their body volume than adults. A child’s diet often differs from that of 

adults. The developing human’s source of nutrition changes with age: from placental nourishment to 

breast milk or formula to the diet of older children who eat more of certain types of foods than adults. A 

child’s behavior and lifestyle also influence exposure. Children crawl on the floor, put things in their 

mouths, sometimes eat inappropriate things (such as dirt or paint chips), and may spend more time 

outdoors. Children also are closer to the ground, and they do not use the judgment of adults to avoid 

hazards (NRC 1993). 

Hydrogen Sulfide. Hydrogen sulfide is found naturally in crude petroleum, natural gas, volcanic gases, 

hot springs, and often as the result of bacterial breakdown of organic matter. Children may be exposed to 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 181 

6. POTENTIAL FOR HUMAN EXPOSURE 

hydrogen sulfide if they live or play near animal waste sites including places where there might be 

sediments of fish aquaculture, livestock barns, or manure areas. Inhalation is the most likely route of 

exposure, and there are no known hydrogen sulfide exposure pathways generally unique to children; 

hydrogen sulfide is heavier than air (which may increase their risk of exposure to higher concentrations 

than adults). Children living in areas of geothermal activity, near waste sites or industries such as 

petroleum refineries, natural gas plants, petrochemical plants, coke oven plants, kraft paper mills, food 

processing plants, and tanneries are more likely to be exposed to higher levels of hydrogen sulfide due to 

physiological and behavior factors previously mentioned. Geothermal gases (including hydrogen sulfide) 

were found to be entering buildings in Rotorua, New Zealand directly from the ground through floors, 

walls, and subsurface pipes; indoor vents emitting up to approximately 200 ppm were reported. This 

concentration is high enough to present an acute respiratory hazard to persons close to the vent, such as 

children playing on the floor (Durand and Scott 2005). In a clinical case involving a 20-month-old child 

whose parents lived beside a coal mine where a burning tip had been emitting hydrogen sulfide for nearly 

1 year, the patient had symptoms of ataxia and an abnormal CT scan of the brain (Gaitonde et al. 1987). 

Monitoring data showed that the hydrogen sulfide levels in the air were approximately 0.6 ppm, but may 

have been higher before data were collected. 

Hydrogen sulfide is also produced by bacteria in the mouth and gastrointestinal tract. Hydrogen sulfide 

formation has been demonstrated in pediatric intravenous amino acid solutions used to treat infants with 

high protein requirements (Decsi and Koletzko 1993). Levels up to 1.96 ppm were found, presumably 

formed by sulfide liberation from cysteine derivatives during heat sterilization. 

There are no known studies in which hydrogen sulfide levels were measured in the blood or other tissues 

of children. Hydrogen sulfide was found in the gas produced by feces of infants, and levels were found to 

vary based on the types of diets the infants were fed and the age of the infants. Fecal gas production for 

infants aged 1–3 months were 372–833, 73–371, and 1,904–2,540 nmol/g (12.7–28.3, 2.5–12.6, and 

65.8–86.4 μg/g) dry weight for infants fed breast milk, milk based formula, and soy based formula, 

respectively (Jiang et al. 2001). 

It is not clear whether hydrogen sulfide can be transferred from mother to fetus. There is limited evidence 

that women occupationally exposed to hydrogen sulfide have a higher rate of spontaneous abortions. 

Women employed in rayon textile and paper products jobs in Finland were found to have an increased 

rate of spontaneous abortions when the mean annual level of hydrogen sulfide exceeded 3 ppb 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 182 

6. POTENTIAL FOR HUMAN EXPOSURE 

(Hemminki and Niemi 1982). An increase in spontaneous abortions was also found in women working in 

petrochemical plants in China as compared to women working in non-chemical plants (Xu et al. 1998). 

Carbonyl Sulfide. As carbonyl sulfide exists in the atmosphere due to both natural and anthropogenic 

sources, children can be exposed through inhalation of ambient air (Conrad and Meuser 2000; Meinrat et 

al. 1992; Simmons et al. 2012; Stimler et al. 2010; Wright 2000). Natural sources, such as soils and 

oceans, as well as human activities (including combustion of coal, automobile use, and chemical 

processing) can introduce carbonyl sulfide to the air (ASTM International 2012; Blake et al. 2004; EPA 

1994c, 1994d; Meinrat et al. 1992; PERC 2001; Rasmussen et al. 1982a; Stimler et al. 2010). Children 

may therefore be exposed to a constant, low level of carbonyl sulfide (Wright 2000). The main exposure 

concerns are typically associated with occupational settings where carbonyl sulfide is produced and used 

(such as for a chemical intermediate [EPA 1994d]), and in this context, childhood exposure may be 

limited. 

6.7 POPULATIONS WITH POTENTIALLY HIGH EXPOSURES 

Hydrogen Sulfide. Workers employed at facilities that manufacture or use hydrogen sulfide in the 

production process are especially prone to exposure. Such industries include the manufacture of rayon 

textiles, lubricants, pulp and paper, and sulfuric acid and inorganic sulfides. Workers in facilities where 

hydrogen sulfide is produced as a byproduct (such as farms with manure storage pits, petroleum or natural 

gas drilling operations, landfills, and waste water treatment plants) may also be exposed to high levels of 

hydrogen sulfide. 

Carbonyl Sulfide. People in occupational settings where carbonyl sulfide is used and produced are likely 

to have the highest rates of exposure. In particular, workers in a facility where carbonyl sulfide is used as 

a chemical intermediate are particularly at risk of exposure (EPA 1994d). Those in the petroleum 

refining, gas production and distribution facilities, and coal distillation fields may be exposed to carbonyl 

sulfide in higher concentrations than the general public (EPA 1994c). Working with carbonyl sulfide in 

an enclosed facility increases the likelihood of exposure during a release (Chase et al. 2010). 

6.8 ADEQUACY OF THE DATABASE 

Section 104(i)(5) of CERCLA, as amended, directs the Administrator of ATSDR (in consultation with the 

Administrator of EPA and agencies and programs of the Public Health Service) to assess whether 

adequate information on the health effects of hydrogen sulfide and carbonyl sulfide is available. Where 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 183 

6. POTENTIAL FOR HUMAN EXPOSURE 

adequate information is not available, ATSDR, in conjunction with NTP, is required to assure the 

initiation of a program of research designed to determine the health effects (and techniques for developing 

methods to determine such health effects) of hydrogen sulfide and carbonyl sulfide. 

The following categories of possible data needs have been identified by a joint team of scientists from 

ATSDR, NTP, and EPA. They are defined as substance-specific informational needs that if met would 

reduce the uncertainties of human health assessment. This definition should not be interpreted to mean 

that all data needs discussed in this section must be filled. In the future, the identified data needs will be 

evaluated and prioritized, and a substance-specific research agenda will be proposed. 

6.8.1 Identification of Data Needs 

Physical and Chemical Properties. 

Hydrogen Sulfide. Information is available on the physical and chemical properties of hydrogen sulfide 

(Al-Haddad et al. 1989; Amoore and Hautala 1983; Daubert and Danner 1989; HSDB 2013; NIOSH 

2011; O'Neil et al. 2001). However, additional information on those properties that determine the specific 

fate, transport, and rates of transformation of hydrogen sulfide as part of the larger sulfur cycle would be 

useful in discerning the environmental fate and behavior of this compound. 

Carbonyl Sulfide. Physical and chemical properties of carbonyl sulfide are reasonably well characterized 

(EPA 1994c; HSDB 2007; Lewis 2007). 

Production, Import/Export, Use, Release, and Disposal. According to the Emergency 

Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act of 1986 (42 U.S.C. Section 11023), industries are required 

to submit substance release and off-site transfer information to the EPA. The TRI, which contains this 

information for 2014, became available in November of 2015. This database is updated yearly and should 

provide a list of industrial production facilities and emissions. 

Environmental Fate. 

Hydrogen Sulfide. Hydrogen sulfide is known to easily evaporate into the air (EPA 1993; Layton and 

Cederwall 1986; Leahey and Schroeder 1986), although its solubility in water may also cause it to persist 

in unperturbed, anoxic sediments. Additional information on the transport, transformation, and 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 184 

6. POTENTIAL FOR HUMAN EXPOSURE 

persistence of the compound in soils and groundwater (particularly at hazardous waste sites) would be 

useful in identifying the most important routes of human exposure to hydrogen sulfide. 

Carbonyl Sulfide. Likewise, carbonyl sulfide is typically released to air, where it is highly abundant 

(Conrad and Meuser 2000; Meinrat et al. 1992; Simmons et al. 2012; Stimler et al. 2010). Additional 

information concerning the transport, transformation, and persistence of carbonyl sulfide in soils and 

water would be useful. 

Bioavailability from Environmental Media. Additional information on absorption following 

dermal contact with, or ingestion of, contaminated soil and water would also be helpful in determining the 

importance of these routes of exposure for populations of concern for both hydrogen sulfide and carbonyl 

sulfide. 

Food Chain Bioaccumulation. 

Hydrogen Sulfide. Sufficient information is available to demonstrate that hydrogen sulfide is not likely 

to bioaccumulate or biomagnify in the food chain. 

Carbonyl Sulfide. While carbonyl sulfide is not expected to bioconcentrate in aquatic organisms (EPA 

1994c, 1994d), additional experimental data in support of this would be useful. 

Exposure Levels in Environmental Media. Reliable monitoring data for the levels of hydrogen 

sulfide and carbonyl sulfide in contaminated media at hazardous waste sites are needed so that the 

information obtained on levels of hydrogen sulfide and carbonyl sulfide in the environment can be used in 

combination with the known body burden of hydrogen sulfide and carbonyl sulfide to assess the potential 

risk of adverse health effects in populations living in the vicinity of hazardous waste sites. 

Hydrogen Sulfide. Monitoring of hydrogen sulfide levels in ambient air is currently sporadic; additional, 

more systematic sampling is needed, particularly in areas that may have a significant source of hydrogen 

sulfide. Methods for accurately measuring dissolved sulfides in water are also available (APHA 1998). 

As hydrogen sulfide is a weak acid, concentrations of aqueous hydrogen sulfide will depend on the pH of 

the solution. The concentration of un-ionized hydrogen sulfide can be calculated from the concentration 

of dissolved sulfide components, the pH of the solution, and the acidity constants for hydrogen sulfide 

(APHA 1998). Reliable monitoring data for the levels of hydrogen sulfide in contaminated media at 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 185 

6. POTENTIAL FOR HUMAN EXPOSURE 

hazardous waste sites are needed so that the information obtained on levels of hydrogen sulfide in the 

environment can be used in combination with the known body burdens of hydrogen sulfide to assess the 

potential risk of adverse health effects in populations living in the vicinity of hazardous waste sites. More 

data on the levels of hydrogen sulfide at the point of emission (on-site) versus levels at the point of 

exposure (off-site) would be useful. 

Carbonyl Sulfide. Likewise, while monitoring data in air exist for carbonyl sulfide, experimental data for 

concentrations in water and soil would be useful. 

Exposure Levels in Humans. 

Hydrogen Sulfide. Occupational studies often do not report exposure levels. Additional information is 

needed on the exposure levels among populations living in the vicinity of hazardous waste sites and other 

potential sources of hydrogen sulfide, such as hot springs and waste water treatment plants. 

Carbonyl Sulfide. For carbonyl sulfide, exposure levels in occupational settings would be useful. 

This information is necessary for assessing the need to conduct health studies on these populations. 

Exposures of Children. The only information that provided an assessment of exposure of children 

and adolescents to hydrogen sulfide was that developed during the South Karelia Air Pollution Study in 

southeastern Finland where there are a cluster of pulp mills using the sulfate method (Marttila et al. 

1994b); however, determining the magnitude of these exposures was complicated by the study's analysis 

of only gross sulfur concentrations rather than measuring the concentrations of individual sulfurcontaining compounds and particulates. Additional exposure information is needed from communities 

where only hydrogen sulfide exceeds background levels. No exposure studies directly related to children 

were found for carbonyl sulfide. Additional information identifying the risks specific to children would 

be useful. 

Child health data needs relating to susceptibility are discussed in Section 3.12.2, Identification of Data 

Needs: Children’s Susceptibility. 

Exposure Registries. No exposure registries for hydrogen sulfide or carbonyl sulfide were located. 

These substances are not currently one of the compounds for which a subregistry has been established in 
 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 186 

6. POTENTIAL FOR HUMAN EXPOSURE 

the National Exposure Registry. These substances will be considered in the future when chemical 

selection is made for subregistries to be established. The information that is amassed in the National 

Exposure Registry facilitates the epidemiological research needed to assess adverse health outcomes that 

may be related to exposure to these substances. 

6.8.2 Ongoing Studies 

No ongoing studies were located for hydrogen sulfide or carbonyl sulfide. 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 187 

7. ANALYTICAL METHODS
 

The purpose of this chapter is to describe the analytical methods that are available for detecting, 

measuring, and/or monitoring hydrogen sulfide and carbonyl sulfide, their metabolites, and other 

biomarkers of exposure and effect to hydrogen sulfide and carbonyl sulfide. The intent is not to provide 

an exhaustive list of analytical methods, but to identify well-established methods that are used as the 

standard methods of analysis. Many of the analytical methods used for environmental samples are the 

methods approved by federal agencies and organizations such as EPA and the National Institute for 

Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). Other methods presented in this chapter are those that are 

approved by groups such as the Association of Official Analytical Chemists (AOAC) and the American 

Public Health Association (APHA). Additionally, analytical methods are included that modify previously 

used methods to obtain lower detection limits and/or to improve accuracy and precision. 

7.1 BIOLOGICAL MATERIALS 

Hydrogen Sulfide. A limited number of analytical techniques have been used for measuring hydrogen 

sulfide in the breath (expired air) and sulfide in biological tissues and fluids including blood and saliva. 

These include gas chromatography coupled with flame ionization detection (GC/FID), gas 

chromatography coupled with flame photometric detection (GC/FPD), iodometric titration, potentiometry 

with ion-selective electrodes (ISE), spectrophotometry, and high-performance liquid chromatography 

(HPLC). The measurement of sulfide concentrations in biological materials is difficult due to its 

volatility, tendency to undergo oxidation, adsorption to glass and rubber, and binding to organic 

molecules (Richardson et al. 2000). Details of commonly used analytical methods for several types of 

biological media are presented in Table 7-1. 

In air, hydrogen sulfide will exist in its molecular form, and methods are available to measure hydrogen 

sulfide in air. However, in aqueous solution, hydrogen sulfide is a weak acid, exhibiting two acid 

dissociation constants. The first dissociation yields bisulfide ion (HS–

) and the second yields sulfide ion 

(S2–), with pKa values for each of these dissociations of 7.04 and 11.96, respectively (O'Neil et al. 2001). 

In biological tissues and fluids, sulfide concentrations typically would be determined. The concentration 

of the un-ionized hydrogen sulfide can be calculated from the concentration of dissolved sulfide 

components (e.g., HS-

, S2-), pH of the solution, and acidity constants for hydrogen sulfide using the 

following equilibrium expressions for the ionization of hydrogen sulfide and bisulfide ion (APHA 1998): 
 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 188 

7. ANALYTICAL METHODS 

Table 7-1. Analytical Methods for Determining Hydrogen Sulfide, Sulfide, and 

Thiosulfate in Biological Samples
 

Sample 

Sample Analytical detection Percent 

matrix Preparation method method limita recovery Reference 

Blood	 Hydrogen sulfide is generated 

in Kipp's apparatus and trapped 

in NaOH solution; pH is 

adjusted to 6.5–6.8, azide and 

excess iodine are added. 

Blood	 Hydrogen sulfide is generated 

in Kipp's apparatus and trapped 

in NaOH solution; sulfide 

antioxidation buffer is added. 

Blood	 Liberation of blood sulfide by 

addition of acid; trapping of 

hydrogen sulfide gas in NaOH 

solution. 

Blood and For thiosulfate detection, add 

urine 0.2 mL sample to mixture of 

0.5 mL of 20 mM PFBBr 

solution in acetone, 0.05 mL of 

5% sodium chloride. Vortex for 

1 minute and add 2 mL of 

25 mM iodine solution in ethyl 

acetate and 0.5 mL of internal 

standard solution (40 μM TBB 

in ethyl acetate). Vortex for 

30 seconds and centrifuge at 

2,500 rpm for 15 minutes, allow 

to stand for 1 hour. 

Blood and For sulfide detection, add 

urine 0.2 mL sample to mixture of 

0.5 mL of 20 mM PFBBr 

solution in toluene, 2.0 mL of 

internal standard solution 

(10 μM TBB in ethyl acetate), 

and 0.8 mL of 5 mM tetradecyldimethylbenzyl ammonium 

chloride solution in oxygen-free 

water saturated with sodium 

tetraborate. Vortex 1 minute, 

add 0.1 g potassium 

dihydrogenphosphate as a 

buffer. Vortex for 10 seconds, 

centrifuge at 2,500 rpm for 

10 minutes. 

Iodometric 4 μg/L 98–102 Puacz et al. 1995 

method 

Potentiometry NR 98–102 Puacz et al. 1995 

(ISE) 

ISE 10 μg/L NR Lindell et al. 1988 

GC/ECD 3 μmol/L NR Kage et al. 1997 

GC/ECD 0.3 μmol/L NR Kage et al. 1997 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 189 

7. ANALYTICAL METHODS 

Table 7-1. Analytical Methods for Determining Hydrogen Sulfide, Sulfide, and 

Thiosulfate in Biological Samples
 

Sample 

Sample Analytical detection Percent 

matrix	 Preparation method method limita recovery Reference 

Urine	 Freeze and store freshly voided 

urine samples at -25°C until 

analysis within 24 hours after 

exposure. Analyze urinary 

thiosulfate as its bromobimane 

product. Correct results for the 

excreted creatinine analyzed in 

the same samples. 

Blood and	 Addition of zinc acetate to trap 

feces	 sulfide, followed by microdistillation into NaOH solution 

to trap evolved hydrogen 

sulfide; analysis by ion 

chromatography. 

Breath	 Connect Teflon sampling probe 

to analyzer and syringe through 

sampling valve and loop; insert 

probe 4 cm into mouth between 

closed lips; withdraw 20 mL 

over 6 seconds into syringe; 

flush and fill the sample loop 

with 10 mL mouth air; carry 

sample to analysis in nitrogen 

gas. 

Breath	 Collect air from breathing zone 

using a midget impinger 

containing calcium hydroxidecalcium sulfide-arabinogalactan 

slurry; add solution of 

N,N-dimethyl-p-phenylenediamine and ferric chloride. 

Saliva	 Collect 3 mL aliquot with sterile 

pipette; introduce into 2-ounce 

glass container and cap; 

incubate 24 hours at 37°C; 

withdraw through cap with gastight syringe. 

LC	 NR 

IC/ECD	 2.5 μmol/L 

GC/FID	 10 μg/m3 

(7 ppb) 

Spectro- 0.20 μg/m3 

photometry (0.1 ppb) 

GC/FID, NR 

microcoulometric titration 

92, 80	 Kangas and 

Savolainen 1987 

92–102 Richardson et al.
 

(feces) 2000
 

79–102 

(blood)
 

NR	 Blanchette and 

Cooper 1976 

80	 NIOSH 1977a 

NR	 Solis and Volpe 

1973 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 190 

7. ANALYTICAL METHODS 

Table 7-1. Analytical Methods for Determining Hydrogen Sulfide, Sulfide, and 

Thiosulfate in Biological Samples
 

Sample 

Sample Analytical detection Percent 

matrix Preparation method method limita recovery Reference 

Brain, lung, 

and 

femoral 

muscle 

Brain, lung, 

and 

femoral 

muscle 

Brain, liver, 

and kidney 

tissue 

(mouse) 

For sulfide detection, add 0.2 g 

sample (minced) to mixture of 

0.5 mL of 20 mM PFBBr 

solution in toluene, 2.0 mL of 

internal standard solution 

(10 μM TBB in ethyl acetate), 

and 0.8 mL of 5 mM tetradecyldimethylbenzyl ammonium 

chloride solution in oxygen-free 

water saturated with sodium 

tetraborate. Vortex 1 minute, 

add 0.1 g potassium 

dihydrogenphosphate as a 

buffer. Vortex for 10 seconds, 

centrifuge at 2,500 rpm for 

10 minutes. 

For thiosulfate detection, add 

0.2 g sample (minced) to 

mixture of 0.5 mL of 20 mM 

PFBBr solution in acetone, 

0.05 mL of 5% sodium chloride 

and 0.5 mL of 200 mM 

L-ascorbic acid. Vortex for 

1 minute and add 2 mL of 

25 mM iodine solution in ethyl 

acetate and 0.5 mL of internal 

standard solution (40 μM TBB 

in ethyl acetate). Vortex 

30 seconds and centrifuge at 

2,500 rpm for 15 minutes, allow 

to stand for 1 hour. 

Weigh sample; homogenize in 

aqueous zinc acetate using a 

rotostator at 18,000 rpm for 

20 seconds; dilute with borate 

buffer; convert to methylene 

blue. 

GC/MS NR NR Kage et al. 1998 

GC/MS NR NR Kage et al. 1998 

Ion-interaction nmol/g NR Mitchell et al. 

reversed- 1993 

phase HPLC 
 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 191 

7. ANALYTICAL METHODS 

Table 7-1. Analytical Methods for Determining Hydrogen Sulfide, Sulfide, and 

Thiosulfate in Biological Samples
 

Sample 

Sample Analytical detection Percent 

matrix Preparation method method limita recovery Reference 

Brain Homogenization in cold 0.01 M Gas 0.02 μg/g 95–99 (rat Goodwin et al. 

tissue NaOH. Centrifuge and dialysis/ion tissue) 1989 

(rat and 

human) 

resuspend pellet; add zinc 

acetate and ascorbic acid; 

readjust pH; use continuous 

chromatography with 

ECD 

flow gas dialysis system to 

separate sulfide. 

aConversion factor: 1 ppm=1.40 mg/m3 

ECD = electron capture detector; FID = flame ionization detector; GC = gas chromatography; HPLC = high 

performance liquid chromatography; ISE = ion-selective electrode; LC = liquid chromatography; M = molar; 

MS = mass spectrometry; NaOH = sodium hydroxide; NR = not reported; PFBBr = pentafluorobenzyl bromide; 

rpm = revolutions per minute; TBB = 1,3,5-tribromobenzene 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 192 

7. ANALYTICAL METHODS 

[HS − (aq)][H + (aq)] Ka1 = [H 2 S(aq)] 

2− + [S (aq)][H (aq)] Ka2 = − [HS (aq)] 

Puacz et al. (1995) developed a catalytic method (based on the iodine-azide reaction) for the 

determination of sulfide in whole human blood. The method involves the generation of hydrogen sulfide 

in an evolution-absorption apparatus. In addition, the method allows for the determination of sulfide in 

blood without interference from other sulfur compounds in blood. This method is appropriate for the 

determination of sulfide in the concentration range of 4–3,000 μg/L. A percent recovery of 98–102% was 

achieved. Although the accuracy and precision of the catalytic method are comparable to those of the 

ion-selective electrode method, the catalytic method is simpler, faster, and would be advantageous in 

serial analysis. 

Richardson et al. (2000) developed a method for measuring sulfide in whole blood and feces, which 

overcomes the problems of viscosity and turbidity that are typical for these types of samples. Turbidity of 

the sample interferes with colorimetric assays such as methylene blue. In this method, samples are first 

treated with zinc acetate to trap the sulfide as an insoluble zinc complex. Next, a microdistillation 

pretreatment is used to release the complexed sulfide into a sodium hydroxide solution. This 

microdistillation step is coupled to ion chromatography with electron capture detection. A detection limit 

of 2.5 μmol/L (80 μg/L) and percent recoveries of 92–102% (feces) and 79–102% (blood) were reported. 

GC/FPD was employed for measuring hydrogen sulfide in human mouth air with a detection limit of 

7 ppb (Blanchette and Cooper 1976) and included improvements such as calibration of the system with 

permeation tubes, use of a variable beam splitter to produce a wide range of vapor concentrations, and the 

ability to handle samples of limited volume. 

For occupational measurements of airborne concentrations, NIOSH (1977a) recommended the use of a 

midget impinger for sampling breathing zone air and the methylene blue/spectrophotometric method for 

the analysis of hydrogen sulfide. The detection limit was 0.14 ppb. 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 193 

7. ANALYTICAL METHODS 

GC/FID has been used for quantifying sulfur volatiles such as hydrogen sulfide in human saliva (Solis 

and Volpe 1973). This method included microcoulometric titrations and a procedure for incubation of 

saliva and sampling of headspace sulfur volatile components. The amount of total sulfur volatiles 

detected in control samples of saliva incubated at 37°C for 24 hours ranged from 4.55 to 13.13 ppm. 

Fresh and frozen mouse tissue samples obtained from brain, liver, and kidney have been analyzed for 

hydrogen sulfide levels by sulfide-derived methylene blue determination using ion-interaction reversedphase HPLC (Mitchell et al. 1993). This method can quantify nmol/g levels of sulfide. Gas dialysis/ion 

chromatography with ECD has been utilized for measurement of sulfide in rat brain tissue with 95–99% 

recovery (Goodwin et al. 1989). Goodwin et al. (1989) also applied this method to human brain tissue 

samples from two suspected hydrogen sulfide fatalities. 

Carbonyl Sulfide. As carbonyl sulfide is believed to metabolize to hydrogen sulfide (Chengelis and Neal 

1979), a limited number of tests were found for measuring carbonyl sulfide in biological samples. The 

following describes potential methods of identifying carbonyl sulfide in blood and breath samples. 

Analytical methods for biological media are presented in Table 7-2. 

In blood samples, carbonyl sulfide can be detected using GC. Blood samples were obtained in 

heparinized or ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA)-impregnated blood tubes, which were used to 

prevent clotting of the blood. Volatiles were then captured by cryogenic trapping and preconcentration on 

Tenax GC columns and analyzed by GC fitted with a Chrompack flame-photometric detector (Tangerman 

1995). 

Wang and Sahay (2009) reviewed several optical spectroscopic techniques that could be employed to 

detect carbonyl sulfide and other trace gasses in human breath. Cavity leak-out spectroscopy (CALOS) 

was used in the mid-infrared (MIR) region with a continuous wave CO2 laser operating at 4.9 μm to 

detect carbonyl sulfide in breath and the ambient atmosphere. Detection limits of 9 and 7 ppt were 

reported for breath and atmosphere samples, respectively. Carbonyl sulfide was identified in breath 

samples using infrared spectroscopy and a Herriott cell with an effective path-length of 36 m. A Herriott 

cell is a multipass absorption cell that is commonly employed to measure low concentration components 

or samples that have low absorption in a spectral region. In the spectral range of 4.85–4.87 μm, a 

detection limit of 1.2 ppb was attained for carbonyl sulfide. A compact sensor which used a thermoelectrically cooled quantum cascade diode laser (QCDL) source operating at 4.86 μm was shown to be a 
 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 194 

7. ANALYTICAL METHODS 

Table 7-2. Analytical Methods for Determining Carbonyl Sulfide in Biological
 

Samples
 

Sample 

matrix Preparation method 

Analytical 

method 

Sample 

detection 

limita 

Percent 

recovery Reference 

Blood Blood sampled in heparinized 

or EDTA-impregnated blood 

tubes followed by cryogenic 

trapping of volatiles on Tenax 

GC column 

GC with flamephotometric 

detector 

No data Tangerman 1995 

Breath Direct sampling Laser 

spectroscopy; 

continuous9 ppt No data Wang and Sahay 

2009 

wave CO2 laser 

in MIR region 

Breath Direct sampling Laser 

spectroscopy 

using Herriott 

cell; spectral 

range of 4.85– 

4.87 μm 

1.2 ppb No data Wang and Sahay 

2009 

Breath Direct sampling TDLAS-based 

compact 

absorption 

30 ppb No data Wang and Sahay 

2009 

spectrometer 

with thermoelectrically 

cooled MIR 

tunable QCDL 

aConversion factor: 1 ppm = 2.44 mg/m3. 

EDTA = ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid; GC = gas chromatography; MIR = mid-infrared; QCDL = quantum 

cascade diode laser; TDLAS = tunable diode laser absorption spectroscopy. 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 195 

7. ANALYTICAL METHODS 

potentially useful sensor for measuring trace gases in breath samples. A 30 ppb detection limit was 

reported for carbonyl sulfide. 

7.2 ENVIRONMENTAL SAMPLES 

The methods most commonly used to detect hydrogen sulfide in environmental samples include GC/FPD, 

gas chromatography with electron capture detection (GC/ECD), iodometric methods, the methylene blue 

colorimetric or spectrophotometric method, the spot method using paper or tiles impregnated with lead 

acetate or mercuric chloride, ion chromatography with conductivity, and potentiometric titration with a 

sulfide ion-selective electrode. Details of commonly used analytical methods for several types of 

environmental samples are presented in Table 7-3. 

Hydrogen Sulfide. Several methods for determining hydrogen sulfide in air have been investigated. 

GC/FPD has been widely used for analyses of hydrogen sulfide at levels ranging from 10-11 to 10-8 g/ 

0.56 mL (EPA 1978; Stetter et al. 1977) and for hydrogen sulfide in emissions from tail gas controls units 

of sulfur recovery plants to a sensitivity of 0.5 ppmv (EPA 2000b). Sampling of a standard reference 

(0.055 ppm hydrogen sulfide) with this method resulted in a relative standard deviation of <3% (WHO 

1981). The sensitivity of hydrogen sulfide detection in air was improved with GC/ECD (Stetter et al. 

1977). The detector operation is based upon the measurement of the current when hydrogen sulfide is 

electrochemically oxidized at a diffusion electrode. Use of this method resulted in a lower detection limit 

of 3x10-12 g hydrogen sulfide and a precision of 0.5%. Analyses were achieved within 2 minutes. 

GC/FPD has been used to measure hydrogen sulfide that has been removed from air by activated carbon 

fiber (Choi et al. 1991). Activated carbon fiber (made from coal tar) effectively oxidized hydrogen 

sulfide (200 ppm) to sulfate. 

Methylene blue techniques have been widely utilized for continuous, quantitative monitoring of hydrogen 

sulfide in air and are sensitive to hydrogen sulfide concentrations down to approximately 1–3 ppb 

(NIOSH 1977a). This method provides adequate specificity with good accuracy and precision (WHO 

1981). The amount of sulfide is determined by spectrophotometric or colorimetric measurement of 

methylene blue. The method has been improved to eliminate the formation of the precipitate cadmium 

sulfide, which can result in the obstruction of the sampling impinger (Van Den Berge et al. 1985). The 

simplified method can also be used to measure hydrogen sulfide levels in the viscose rayon industry 

because it is not as sensitive to carbon disulfide. Limitations of the methylene blue method include 

potential interferences from light, mercaptans, sulfides, nitrogen dioxide, and sulfur dioxide, and that the 
 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 196 

7. ANALYTICAL METHODS 

Table 7-3. Analytical Methods for Determining Hydrogen Sulfide and Sulfide in 

Environmental Samples
 

Sample Analytical Sample Percent 

matrix Preparation method method detection limita recovery Reference 

Air	 Filter through a 0.5 μm Zefluor; 

absorb on a solid sorbent tube 

containing shell charcoal; 

desorb with ammonia 

hydroxide and hydrogen 

peroxide; dilute. 

Air	 Aspirate through cadmium 

hydroxide; precipitate as 

cadmium sulfide; add 

STRactan 10®; react with 

N,N-dimethyl-p-phenylenediamine and ferric chloride to 

yield methylene blue. 

Air	 Aspirate through sodium 

hydroxide and ethanol; react 

with N,N-dimethyl-p-phenylenediamine and ferric chloride 

to yield methylene blue. 

Air	 Absorb onto cadmium(II)­

exchange zeolite; precipitate 

as cadmium sulfide; convert to 

methylene blue; measure at 

750 nm. 

Air	 Electrochemically oxidize 

sample at potential-controlled 

Teflon-bonded diffusion 

electrode. 

Air	 Introduce sampled air and 

carrier gas onto column. 

Air	 Introduce sample onto column 

packed with activated carbon 

filter. 

Air	 Absorb in an impinger 

containing a standardized 

solution of iodine and 

potassium iodide; titrate with 

standard sodium thiosulfate 

solution. 

Air	 Trap H2S in aqueous NaOH 

and ascorbic acid in a midget 

impinger; titrate resulting 

sulfide ion with CdSO4 solution. 

Ion chromato- 11 μg/sample; NR NIOSH 1994 

graphy, working range (Method 6013) 

conductivity 0.6–14 ppm 

for a 20-L air 

sample 

Spectro- 0.20 μg/m3 80 Adams et al. 

photometry 1975; EPA 1978; 

NIOSH 1977a 

Spectro- No data NR Van den Berge et 

photometry al. 1985 

PAS 0.01 μg NR NIOSH 1979 

GC/ECD 3 pg NR Stetter et al. 1977 

GC/FPD 5–13 μg/m3 NR EPA 1978 

GC/FPD No data NR Choi et al. 1991 

Iodometric No data NR EPA 1978 

titration 

Potentiometry ppb levels NR Ehman 1976 
 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 197 

7. ANALYTICAL METHODS 

Table 7-3. Analytical Methods for Determining Hydrogen Sulfide and Sulfide in 

Environmental Samples
 

Sample Analytical Sample Percent 

matrix Preparation method method detection limita recovery Reference 

Air	 Aspirate through ammoniacal 

cadmium chloride; strip sulfur 

dioxide by aeration; dissolve 

cadmium sulfide; precipitate in 

concentrated HCl; titrate with 

iodine using a starch indicator. 

Air	 Filter measured volume of air 

through lead-acetateimpregnated filter paper tape; 

compare optical density with 

unexposed impregnated spot 

of similar area. 

Air	 Filter measured volume of air 

through mercuric chlorideimpregnated filter paper tape; 

compare optical density with 

unexposed impregnated spot 

of similar area. 

Air	 Pass air through silver 

membrane filter. 

Air (fuel Hydrogen sulfide is absorbed 

gas on impingers containing 

streams in cadmium sulfate, forming 

petroleum cadmium sulfide, which is 

refineries) measured iodometrically. 

Air A gas sample is extracted from 

(emissions the emission source and 

from diluted with clean dry air. 

stationary 

sources) 

Water	 Add an amine-sulfuric acid 

reagent and a ferric chloride 

solution to the sample, mix 

gently; after 3–5 minutes add 

(NH4)2HPO4 solution; analyze 

after 3–15 minutes. 

Water	 For unpreserved samples, add 

solutions of zinc acetate, 

sodium hydroxide, and 

ascorbic acid, shake and let 

stand for 30 minutes; for 

preserved samples, omit the 

zinc acetate step. 

Iodometric 

titration 

Lead-acetateimpregnated 

filter paper 

tape 

Mercuric 

chlorideimpregnated 

filter paper 

tape 

Silver 

membrane 

filters/optical 

density 

measurements 

Iodometric 

titration 

GC/FPD 

Colorimetry 

Spectrophotometry 

0.7 μg/L 

No data 

0.7 μg/m3 

(0.5 ppb) 

No data 

8–740 mg/m3 

(6–520 ppm) 

0.5 ppmv 

Applicable to 

sulfide 

concentrations 

ranging from 

0.1 to 

20.0 mg/L 

Applicable at 

sulfide 

concentrations 

from 0.002 to 

0.100 mg/L 

NR	 EPA 1978 

NR	 EPA 1978 

NR	 EPA 1978 

NR	 EPA 1978 

NR	 EPA 2000a 

NR	 EPA 2000b 

89–92	 APHA 1998 

(Methylene Blue 

Method) 

97.6–	 APHA 1998 (Gas 

104.2	 Dialysis, 

Automated 

Methylene Blue 

Method) 
 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 198 

7. ANALYTICAL METHODS 

Table 7-3. Analytical Methods for Determining Hydrogen Sulfide and Sulfide in 

Environmental Samples
 

Sample 

matrix Preparation method 

Analytical 

method 

Sample 

detection limita 

Percent 

recovery Reference 

Water To the sample, add an excess 

of standard iodine solution; 

back titrate with a sodium 

thiosulfate solution. 

Iodometric 

titration 

Accurate 

method for 

determining 

sulfide 

NR APHA 1998 

(Iodometric 

Method) 

concentrations 

>1 mg/L 

Water Add an AAR and zinc acetate 

to the sample; measure the 

potential and compare to a 

calibration curve. 

ISE Applicable for 

sulfide 

concentrations 

>0.03 mg/L 

NR APHA 1998 (ISE 

Method) 

Water Collect water sample; acidify; 

strip sample with helium; 

collect gas in nitrogen-cooled 

GC/FPD 0.6 pmol/L NR Radford-Knoery 

and Cutter 1993 

trap. 

Water and 

sludge 

Acidify sample to convert 

sulfide ion to hydrogen sulfide; 

measure hydrogen sulfide 

absorption at 196 nm using the 

selenium atomic line. 

AAS 0.25 μg (1– 

10 mL sample 

volume) 

NR Parvinen and 

Lajunen 1994 

Sediment Acidify sample to convert 

sulfide ion to hydrogen sulfide; 

trap hydrogen sulfide in sodium 

hydroxide; sulfide reacts with 

N,N-dimethyl-p-phenylenediamine to form methylene 

blue. 

Colorimetry 0.01 μmol/g NR Allen et al. 1994 

Sediment Trap in silver nitrate solution as 

insoluble silver sulfide. 

Gravimetry 10 μmol/g NR Allen et al. 1994 

Sediment Trap in a sulfide antioxidant 

buffer. 

Potentiometry/ 

ISE 

No data NR Allen et al. 1994 

aConversion factor: 1 ppm=1.40 mg/m3 

AAR = alkaline antioxidant reagent; AAS = atomic absorption spectroscopy; CdSO4 = cadmium sulfate;
 

ECD = electron capture detector; FPD = flame photometric detection; GC = gas chromatography; HCl = hydrochloric
 

acid; H2S = hydrogen sulfide; ISE = ion-selective electrode; NaOH = sodium hydroxide; NR = not reported;
 

PAS = photoacoustic spectroscopy
 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 199 

7. ANALYTICAL METHODS 

system is not portable (NIOSH 1977a). Photoacoustic spectroscopy of hydrogen sulfide converted to 

methylene blue has been demonstrated to yield greater sensitivity than standard spectrophotometric 

methods (NIOSH 1979). By maximizing instrument response to the 750-nm peak, it was possible to 

achieve a detection limit of 0.01 μg when collected at 2.0 L/minute for a 1-hour period. 

NIOSH (Method 6013) describes the measurement of hydrogen sulfide in the air by ion chromatography 

(NIOSH 1994). This method has a working range of 0.6–14 ppm for a 20-L air sample and an estimated 

limit of detection of 11 μg per sample. However, sulfur dioxide may interfere with the measurement of 

hydrogen sulfide. 

The iodometric method has been utilized in analyzing hydrogen sulfide in the air (EPA 1978). The 

method is based on the oxidation of hydrogen sulfide by absorption of the gas sample in an impinger 

containing a standardized solution of iodine and potassium iodide. This solution will also oxidize sulfur 

dioxide. The iodometric method is suitable for occupational settings. The accuracy of the method is 

approximately 0.50 ppm hydrogen sulfide for a 30-L air sample (EPA 1978). Another application of the 

iodometric method is for the determination of hydrogen sulfide in fuel gas emissions in petroleum 

refineries (EPA 2000a). In this method, the sample is extracted from a source and passed through a series 

of impingers containing cadmium sulfate. The hydrogen sulfide is absorbed, forming cadmium sulfide, 

which is then measured iodometrically. The sensitivity range of this method is 8–740 mg/m3 (6– 

520 ppm) (EPA 2000a). 

Paper tapes impregnated with lead acetate have been widely used for air sample measurements of 

hydrogen sulfide in the field (EPA 1978; WHO 1981). The presence of other substances capable of 

oxidizing lead sulfide can lead to errors. This method has been improved by impregnating the paper with 

mercuric chloride or silver nitrate (EPA 1978; WHO 1981). Mercuric chloride paper tape is sensitive and 

reliable for measurement of hydrogen sulfide in air with a sensitivity of 0.7 μg/L (EPA 1978). Tapes 

impregnated with silver nitrate are suitable for determination of hydrogen sulfide concentrations in the 

range of 0.001–50 ppm (WHO 1981). 

Potentiometric titration with a sulfide ion-selective electrode as an indicator has been used to measure 

hydrogen sulfide in the air at ppb levels (Ehman 1976). This method has been shown to have very good 

accuracy and precision. No interference could be found from nitrogen dioxide, sulfur dioxide, or ozone. 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 200 

7. ANALYTICAL METHODS 

Passive card monitors can be used to detect hydrogen sulfide in workplace environments (Saunders et al. 

2002). These monitors can be categorized as quantitative, semiquantitative, and indicator cards. 

Quantitative cards use an optical reader to assess exposure and calculate a hydrogen sulfide concentration 

in air; the results are digitally displayed. Semiquantitative cards are read by comparing the exposed card 

to a chart or by observing a progressive color development in windows on the card that represent differing 

exposure concentration ranges. The indicator cards change color above a certain threshold concentration 

of hydrogen sulfide. Saunders et al. (2002) reported detection limits of 4–8 and 0.8–4 ppm-hours for two 

commercial quantitative card monitors, 1 and 0.1 ppm-hours for two commercial semiquantitative card 

monitors, and 0.05 and 0.4 ppm-hour for two commercial indicator card monitors. 

Badges that can be worn in a worker’s breathing zone that change color based on exposure to toxic gases 

(including hydrogen sulfide) are available from American Gas & Chemical Co. The sensitivity for the 

hydrogen sulfide badges is 10 ppm/10 minutes with a color change from white to brown (American Gas 

& Chemical Co. 2005; Ho et al. 2001). Other colorimetric methods for monitoring of hydrogen sulfide 

include handheld colorimetric tubes. Air is drawn through the tube and a color change indicates the 

presence of hydrogen sulfide by reaction with a chemical reagent in the glass tube. Tubes for hydrogen 

sulfide are available from Draeger Safety, Inc. in various measuring ranges from 0–5 to 100–2,000 ppm 

(Draeger Safety 2005). 

Electrochemical sensors are the most commonly used sensors for toxic gases (including hydrogen sulfide) 

and are the best sensor for ambient toxic gas monitoring. These sensors are specific to a particular gas, 

are very accurate, do not get poisoned, and monitor at the ppm level. However, they have a narrow 

temperature range and a short shelf life, particularly in very hot and dry areas. When sensitivity to low 

concentrations of hydrogen sulfide (ppm levels) is needed, semiconductor sensors are one of the best 

sensors. Some advantages of semiconductor sensors for hydrogen sulfide include small size, ruggedness, 

and sensitivity to ppm concentrations. Disadvantages include slow response on aged sensors, requirement 

of a temperature controlled heater, and cost (Delphian Corporation 2005). 

The Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) monitors airborne levels of ammonia, hydrogen 

sulfide, and odor concentrations near animal feeding operations. Approved monitoring methods and 

equipment for the hydrogen sulfide must incorporate a thermal oxidizer and an EPA reference method 

analyzer that is designed for sulfur dioxide. There are several instruments that meet the requirements for 

the Iowa DNR, all of which detect hydrogen sulfide by first oxidizing it to sulfur dioxide, which is then 

measured using a fluorescence detector. The hydrogen sulfide and total reduced sulfide analyzer (Model 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 201 

7. ANALYTICAL METHODS 

101A) from Advanced Pollution Instrumentation, Inc. has a range of 0–50 ppb to 0–2 ppm for hydrogen 

sulfide. In addition, three hydrogen sulfide analyzers from Thermo Electron Corporation are also 

approved by the Iowa DNR. Minimum detection limits of 0.5 ppb can be achieved for models 45C and 

450C and 0.06 ppb can be achieved for model 450C-TL (API 2005; Iowa DNR 2004, 2005; Thermo 

Electron Corp. 2005a, 2005b, 2005c). 

The APHA (1998) defines three categories of sulfides that must be taken into account for analytical 

methods measuring sulfides in water: total sulfide, dissolved sulfide, and un-ionized hydrogen sulfide. 

Total sulfide includes all sulfide containing species, dissolved hydrogen sulfide, bisulfide ion, and acidsoluble metal sulfides in suspended matter. Dissolved sulfide includes sulfide-containing components 

that remain after suspended solids have been removed. The concentration of the un-ionized hydrogen 

sulfide can be calculated from the concentration of dissolved sulfide components, pH of the solution, and 

the acidity constants for hydrogen sulfide using the equilibrium expressions for the ionization of 

hydrogen sulfide and bisulfide ion (APHA 1998). 

Samples that contain sulfide species can be either analyzed immediately after collection, or preserved 

with a zinc acetate solution for later analysis (APHA 1998). The addition of zinc ion (Zn2+) to the sample 

will precipitate any sulfides as zinc sulfide. A qualitative sulfide test (such as a precipitation test using 

potassium antimony tartrate or testing for hydrogen sulfide vapors using lead acetate paper or silver foil) 

can be useful and are advisable when testing industrial wastes that may contain substances that interfere 

with certain test methods, such as the methylene blue method (APHA 1998). 

The total sulfide concentration in a water sample can be determined using an iodometric titration. In this 

method, sulfide is reacted with a measured excess of iodine in an acidic solution; the remaining unreacted 

iodine is then determined by titration with a thiosulfate solution. This method is an accurate method for 

determining sulfide concentrations of >1 mg/L, if interferences are absent and the loss of hydrogen 

sulfide from the solution is avoided. The iodometric method is best suited for the analysis of samples 

freshly taken (i.e., from wells and springs) (APHA 1998). 

The methylene blue method is applicable to sulfide concentrations ranging from 0.1 to 20.0 mg/L. In this 

method, an amine-sulfuric acid reagent and a ferric chloride solution are added to the sample to produce 

methylene blue, which is then quantified colorimetrically. In the automated methylene blue method, a gas 

dialysis technique separates the sulfide from the sample matrix, which removes most inferences (i.e., 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 202 

7. ANALYTICAL METHODS 

turbidity and color). Addition of ascorbic acid, an antioxidant, improves sulfide recovery. The automated 

methylene blue method is applicable at sulfide concentrations from 0.002 to 0.100 mg/L (APHA 1998). 

Potentiometric methods using a silver electrode are also suitable for determination of sulfide 

concentrations in water and are unaffected by sample color or turbidly. In this method, an alkaline 

antioxidant reagent (AAR) and zinc acetate are added to the sample. The potential of the sample is 

measured using an ISE and the measurement is compared to a calibration curve. This method is 

applicable for sulfide concentrations >0.03 mg/L (APHA 1998). 

Three methods for quantifying acid volatile sulfides in sediment have been described (Allen et al. 1994). 

These include methylene blue/colorimetric methods, gravimetry, and potentiometry with an ion-selective 

electrode. Prior to measurement, the acid volatile sulfide in the sample is converted to hydrogen sulfide 

by acidification. The hydrogen sulfide is then purged from the sample and trapped in aqueous solution 

for the colorimetric and potentiometric methods. In the gravimetric method, hydrogen sulfide is trapped 

with silver nitrate (AgNO3), and the mass of the insoluble silver sulfide (Ag2S) that is formed is 

determined. The methylene blue/colorimetric method is generally preferred and is capable of determining 

acid volatile sulfide concentrations in sediment as low as 0.01 μmol/g (0.3 μg/g) dry weight. The 

gravimetric method can be used for samples with moderate or high acid volatile sulfides. However, 

below concentrations of acid volatile sulfides in dry sediment of 10 μmol/g (320 μg/g), accuracy may be 

affected by incomplete recovery of precipitate or by weighing errors. The limit of detection of the ionselective electrode method as applied to measuring hydrogen disulfide in sediment was not reported. 

GC/FPD has been used to measure hydrogen sulfide, free (uncomplexed) sulfide, and dissolved metal 

sulfide complexes in water (Radford-Knoery and Cutter 1993). Hydrogen sulfide was measured in the 

headspace of the sample (100 mL) with a detection limit of 0.6 pmol/L (20 pg/L). A detection limit of 

0.2 pmol/L (6 pg/L) was obtained for total dissolved sulfide. This method allows for the determination of 

the concentration of free sulfide that is in equilibrium with hydrogen sulfide. Complexed sulfide can be 

estimated from the difference between total dissolved sulfide and free sulfide. 

A molecular absorption spectrophotometry method using a sharp-line irradiation source has been 

developed for the determination of sulfide (as hydrogen sulfide) in water and sludge samples. The 

method was tested with measurements of real waste water samples. The limit of detection was 0.25 μg 

(1–10 mL sample volume) (Parvinen and Lajunen 1994). 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 203 

7. ANALYTICAL METHODS 

Carbonyl Sulfide. Carbonyl sulfide can be detected in environmental samples using various gas 

chromatography methods, as well as cell-based sensors. Details of commonly used analytical methods to 

detect carbonyl sulfide in several types of environmental samples are presented in Table 7-4. Air 

concentrations of carbonyl sulfide can be determined using gas chromatography. Sulfur compounds are 

collected in a small glass tube that is packed with Tenax GC, and concentrated at -196°C. Water is 

removed from the air samples using calcium chloride. The Tenax tube is placed in the GC, where sulfur 

compounds are released at 200°C into a carrier gas stream and analyzed using a flame photometric 

detector. After 1 week of storage at -196°C, 91% of carbonyl sulfide was recovered (Tangerman 1986). 

Blake et al. (2004) also determined carbonyl sulfide concentrations in the atmosphere utilizing a mass 

spectrometer method. From an aircraft, whole air samples were collected using an external air intake to 

fill 2 L stainless steel canisters to approximately 4 atmospheres of pressure. Samples were preconcentrated at liquid nitrogen temperatures (-196°C) on a stainless steel loop filled with glass beads, 

which was then put in hot water to evaporate the sample. The sample was flushed to a splitter, where it 

broke into five streams and went to one of five column-detector combinations. Concentrations were 

determined using a DB-5ms column with an HP-5973 quadrupole Mass Spectrometric Detector, which 

was used in single ion monitoring (SIM) mode. Carbonyl sulfide was measured with a detection limit of 

20 pptv (Blake et al. 2004). 

The NASA Chemical Instrumentation Test and Evaluation 3 (CITE 3) method evaluates carbonyl sulfide 

concentrations in air. The method utilizes a gas chromatograph/mass spectrometer (GC/MS) and an 

isotopically labeled compound as an internal standard (GC/MS/ILS). GC/MS/ILS uses an isotopomer of 

the analyte to calibrate every sample. The detection limit of this method has been reported as 4 fmol/s 

(Bandy et al. 1993). 

Oceanic air samples have been analyzed for carbonyl sulfide. Samples were collected in 6- and 800-mL 

stainless steel bottles using a Metal Bellows MB-155 pump to fill to an internal pressure of 30 psi. 

Samples in 35- and 1.6-L bottles were collected cryogenically (which increases stability) by putting the 

canister on liquid nitrogen and utilizing the internal vacuum to collect the sample. The samples were 

analyzed using a Finnigan 4021 GC/MS data system (Rasmussen et al. 1982a). 

Carbonyl sulfide can also be monitored in air using a pyrolyzer-electrochemical cell-based sensor, such as 

the MIDAS gas detector. The system utilizes an internal pump to sample the air, which is then fed to a 

pyrolyzer. It converts carbonyl sulfide to hydrogen sulfide by pyrolysis at high temperatures and in 
 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 204 

7. ANALYTICAL METHODS 

Table 7-4. Analytical Methods for Determining Carbonyl Sulfide in 

Environmental Samples
 

Sample 

Sample Analytical detection Percent 

matrix Preparation method method limit recovery Reference 

Air Whole air samples from MS in SIM 20 pptv Blake et al. 2004 

aircraft; mode 

preconcentrated at 

-196°C, followed by hot 

water evaporation and 

split into five streams. 

Air Collected in glass tube GC with flame 91% Tangerman 1986 

with Tenax GC; photometric 

concentrated at -196°C; detector 

water removed with 

calcium chloride. 

Air Air sample. GC/MS/ILS 4 fmol/s Bandy et al. 1993 

Air Internal pump to sample Pyrolyzer­ 20 ppm Chase et al. 2010 

air; pyrolyze carbonyl electrochemical 

sulfide to hydrogen cell-based 

sulfide at ambient sensor 

moisture. 

Air Collected in steel GC/MS data Rasmussen et al. 1982a 

bottles with pump or system 

cryogenically. 

Seawater Air samples equilibrated Flame Meinrat et al. 1992 

with seawater; photometric 

separated on sulfur detector 

chromatographic 

column. 

Seawater Collected in vacuum GC/MS data Rasmussen et al. 1982a 

extraction flasks; air system 

removed. 

GC = gas chromatography; GC/MS/ILS = gas chromatography/mass spectrometry with isotopically labeled 

compound as internal standard; MS = mass spectrometry; SIM = single ion monitoring 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 205 

7. ANALYTICAL METHODS 

ambient moisture. An electrochemical sensor cartridge is then used to determine the hydrogen sulfide 

content. The limit of detection for carbonyl sulfide was reported as 20 ppm (Chase et al. 2010). 

The optical sensors reviewed by Wang and Sahay (2009) and discussed in Section 7.1 for potential use in 

exhaled breath analysis could also be employed to analyze for carbonyl sulfide in ambient air. 

The concentration of dissolved carbonyl sulfide in seawater can be determined by equilibrating air 

samples with seawater. The equilibrated air samples are then sent through a cold trap that is submerged 

in liquid nitrogen. Trace gases are then separated on a chromatographic column and the carbonyl sulfide 

saturation ratio is determined using a flame photometric sulfur detector. The dissolved carbonyl sulfide 

concentration is calculated from the saturation ratio using Henry’s law (Meinrat et al. 1992). 

In another study, samples of seawater were obtained using 1,000 mL vacuum extraction flasks, 

constructed of Erlenmeyer flasks with a Kovar-to-glass seal on the top connected to a valve. Bottles were 

filled such that the headspace air and water sample were in equal volumes. The flask was placed in a 

heated chamber at 100°C and the air was pumped out with a vacuum for one hour to keep a pressure of 

0.1 torr. The sample was then collected by submerging the flask and releasing the valve or by removing 

the sample under vacuum by putting the water sample in a funnel and opening the valve. The samples 

were analyzed using a Finnigan 4021 GC/MS data system and the concentration of carbonyl sulfide was 

calculated using Henry’s law and the headspace concentration (Rasmussen et al. 1982a). 

7.3 ADEQUACY OF THE DATABASE 

Section 104(i)(5) of CERCLA, as amended, directs the Administrator of ATSDR (in consultation with the 

Administrator of EPA and agencies and programs of the Public Health Service) to assess whether 

adequate information on the health effects of hydrogen sulfide and carbonyl sulfide is available. Where 

adequate information is not available, ATSDR, in conjunction with NTP, is required to assure the 

initiation of a program of research designed to determine the health effects (and techniques for developing 

methods to determine such health effects) of hydrogen sulfide and carbonyl sulfide. 

The following categories of possible data needs have been identified by a joint team of scientists from 

ATSDR, NTP, and EPA. They are defined as substance-specific informational needs that if met would 

reduce the uncertainties of human health assessment. This definition should not be interpreted to mean 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 206 

7. ANALYTICAL METHODS 

that all data needs discussed in this section must be filled. In the future, the identified data needs will be 

evaluated and prioritized, and a substance-specific research agenda will be proposed. 

7.3.1 Identification of Data Needs 

Methods for Determining Biomarkers of Exposure and Effect. 

Exposure. Methods are available for measuring hydrogen sulfide in expired air (Blanchette and Cooper 

1976; NIOSH 1977a). Methods are available for measuring sulfide in blood (Puacz et al. 1995; 

Richardson et al. 2000) and brain tissue (Goodwin et al. 1989) and for measuring sulfur volatiles in saliva 

(Solis and Volpe 1973). Methods are available for measuring thiosulfate levels in urine (Kage et al. 1992; 

Kangas and Savolainen 1987; Milby and Baselt 1999). Analytical methods with satisfactory sensitivity 

and precision are available to determine levels of hydrogen sulfide and thiosulfate in human tissues and 

body fluids. Methods that can quantitatively correlate levels in biological fluids and tissues with 

environmental exposure levels would be useful in estimating exposure to hydrogen sulfide. Limited 

methods are available for determining carbonyl sulfide concentrations in biological samples (Tangerman 

1995; Wang and Sahay 2009) since it is likely that carbonyl sulfide metabolizes to hydrogen sulfide in 

biological organisms. 

Effect. No methods have been identified that can be used to directly associate levels of hydrogen sulfide 

in biological samples with the onset of adverse health effects. 

Methods for Determining Parent Compounds and Degradation Products in Environmental 

Media. Methods are available for measuring hydrogen sulfide in air (Ehman 1976; EPA 1978, 2000a, 

2000b; NIOSH 1977a, 1979, 1994; Stetter et al. 1977; Van Den Berge et al. 1985; WHO 1981). Methods 

are available for measuring sulfide in sediment (Allen et al. 1994), water (APHA 1998; Radford-Knoery 

and Cutter 1993), and sludge (Parvinen and Lajunen 1994). Ho et al. (2001) reviewed sensors and 

technologies that can be used to monitor various chemicals (including hydrogen sulfide) with particular 

attention to sensors that have the potential to be used for long-term monitoring applications. Since 

hydrogen sulfide is part of the natural environment, dissociates in aqueous solution, and can bind to 

various metal ions in environmental media, in most cases, it would not be possible to distinguish the 

specific source of sulfide ions in environmental media. In the event of a release of hydrogen sulfide, 

increased sulfide concentrations in surrounding environmental media would likely be due to the release. 
 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 207 

7. ANALYTICAL METHODS 

7.3.2 Ongoing Studies 

No ongoing studies for examining analytical methods to detect hydrogen sulfide or carbonyl sulfide levels 

were identified. 
 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 208 

7. ANALYTICAL METHODS 

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HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 209 

8. REGULATIONS, ADVISORIES, AND GUIDELINES
 

MRLs are substance specific estimates intended to serve as screening levels used by ATSDR health 

assessors and other responders to identify contaminants and potential health effects that may be of 

concern at hazardous waste sites. 

An acute-duration inhalation MRL of 0.07 ppm was derived for hydrogen sulfide. This MRL is based on 

a minimal LOAEL of 2 ppm for a >30% alteration in two measures of lung function that are suggestive of 

bronchial obstruction (airway resistance and specific airway conductance) in 2 out of 10 persons with 

asthma (Jappinen et al. 1990). The MRL was derived by dividing the unadjusted LOAEL by an 

uncertainty factor of 27 (3 for the use of a minimal LOAEL, 3 for human variability, and 3 for database 

deficiencies). Further details on the derivation of this MRL can be found in the MRL worksheets in 

Appendix A of this profile. 

An intermediate-duration inhalation MRL of 0.02 ppm was derived for hydrogen sulfide. This MRL is 

based on a NOAEL of 10 ppm and a LOAEL of 30 ppm for olfactory neuron loss in rats exposed to 

hydrogen sulfide 6 hours/day, 7 days/week for 10 weeks (Brenneman et al. 2000). The MRL was derived 

by dividing the human equivalent concentration of the NOAEL by an uncertainty factor of 30 (3 for 

extrapolation from animals to humans with dosimetric adjustments and 10 for human variability). Further 

details on the derivation of this MRL can be found in the MRL worksheets in Appendix A of this profile. 

EPA has derived a chronic inhalation reference concentration (RfC) for chronic exposure to hydrogen 

sulfide. The RfC of 0.002 mg/m3 (0.001 ppm) is based on a NOAEL of 13.9 mg/m3 (10 ppm) and a 

LOAEL of 41.7 mg/m3 (30 ppm) for nasal lesions of the olfactory mucosa in rats (Brenneman et al. 

2000). The NOAELHEC of 0.64 mg/m3 (0.46 ppm) was divided by an uncertainty factor of 300 (3 for 

interspecies extrapolation with dosimetric adjustment from rat to human, 10 for sensitive populations, and 

10 for subchronic exposure) (IRIS 2003). 

EPA has not derived an oral reference dose (RfD) or an inhalation RfC for chronic exposure to carbonyl 

sulfide (IRIS 2002). 

The international and national regulations, advisories, and guidelines regarding hydrogen sulfide and 

carbonyl sulfide in air, water, and other media are summarized in Tables 8-1 and 8-2. 
HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 210 

8. REGULATIONS, ADVISORIES, AND GUIDELINES 

Table 8-1. Regulations and Guidelines Applicable to Hydrogen Sulfide 

Agency Description Information Reference 

INTERNATIONAL 

Guidelines: 

IARC Carcinogenicity classification No data IARC 2013 

WHO Air quality guidelines No data WHO 2010 

Drinking water quality guidelines No dataa WHO 2011 

NATIONAL 

Regulations and 

Guidelines: 

a. Air 

ACGIH TLV (8-hour TWA) 1 ppm ACGIH 2012b 

STEL 5 ppm 

AIHA ERPG-1b,c 0.1 ppm AIHA 2011 

ERPG-2 30 ppm 

ERPG-3 100 ppm 

DOE PAC-1d 0.51 ppm DOE 2012 

PAC-2 27 ppm 

PAC-3 50 ppm 

EPA AEGL-1e EPA 2013a 

10-minutes 0.75 ppm 

30-minutes 0.60 ppm 

60-minutes 0.51 ppm 

4-hours 0.36 ppm 

8-hours 0.33 ppm 

AEGL-2 

10-minutes 41 ppm 

30-minutes 32 ppm 

60-minutes 27 ppm 

4-hours 20 ppm 

8-hours 17 ppm 

AEGL-3 

10-minutes 76 ppm 

30-minutes 59 ppm 

60-minutes 50 ppm 

4-hours 37 ppm 

8-hours 31 ppm 

NAAQS No data EPA 2013d 

NIOSH REL (10-minute ceiling) 10 ppm NIOSH 2011 

IDLH 100 ppm 
 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 211 

8. REGULATIONS, ADVISORIES, AND GUIDELINES 

Table 8-1. Regulations and Guidelines Applicable to Hydrogen Sulfide 

Agency Description Information Reference 

NATIONAL (cont.) 

OSHA 

b. Water 

EPA 

c. Food 

FDA 

d. Other 

ACGIH 

EPA 

PEL (8-hour TWA) for general industry 

Acceptable ceiling concentration 

Acceptable maximum peak above the 

acceptable ceiling concentration for an 

8-hour shift 

Highly hazardous chemicals (threshold 

quantity) 

Designated as hazardous substances in 

accordance with Section 311(b)(2)(A) of 

the Clean Water Act 

Drinking water contaminant candidate 

list 

Drinking water standards and health 

advisories 

National primary drinking water 

standards 

National recommended water quality 

criteria 

Freshwater (criterion continuous 

concentration) 

Saltwater (criterion continuous 

concentration) 

Reportable quantities of hazardous 

substances designated pursuant to 

Section 311 of the Clean Water Act 

EAFUSf 

Carcinogenicity classification 

Carcinogenicity classification 

RfC 

RfD 

Identification and listing of hazardous 

waste 

Inert pesticide ingredients in pesticide 

products approved for nonfood use only 

Master Testing List 

No data 

20 ppm 

50 ppm for 10 minutes 

once only if no other 

measured exposure 

occurs 

1,500 pounds 

Yes 

No data 

No data 

No data 

2.0 μg/L 

2.0 μg/L 

100 pounds 

Yes 

No data 

Data inadequate for 

assessment 

2x10-3 mg/m3 

No data 

U135 

No data 

No data 

OSHA 2013b 

29 CFR 1910.1000, 

Table Z-2 

OSHA 2013a 

29 CFR 1910.119, 

Appendix A 

EPA 2012c 

40 CFR 116.4 

EPA 2009a 

74 FR 51850 

EPA 2012d 

EPA 2009b 

EPA 2009c 

EPA 2012a 

40 CFR 117.3 

FDA 2013 

ACGIH 2012b 

IRIS 2003 

EPA 2012b 

40 CFR 261, 

Appendix VIII 

EPA 2013c 

EPA 2013a 
 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 212 

8. REGULATIONS, ADVISORIES, AND GUIDELINES 

Table 8-1. Regulations and Guidelines Applicable to Hydrogen Sulfide 

Agency Description Information Reference 

NATIONAL (cont.) 

RCRA waste minimization PBT priority 

chemical list 

EPA Standards for owners and operators of 

hazardous waste TSD facilities; 

groundwater monitoring list 

Superfund, emergency planning, and 

community right-to-know 

Designated CERCLA hazardous 

substance and reportable quantity 

pursuant to Section 311(b)(2) of the 

Clean Water Act and Section 3001 of 

RCRA 

Effective date of toxic chemical 

release reporting 

Extremely hazardous substances 

and its threshold planning quantityg 

Reportable quantity 

Threshold planning quantity 

TSCA chemical lists and reporting 

periods 

TSCA health and safety data reporting 

NTP Carcinogenicity classification 

No data EPA 1998 

63 FR 60332 

No data EPA 2012e 

40 CFR 264, 

Appendix IX 

100 pounds EPA 2012f 

40 CFR 302.4 

01/01/1994 EPA 2012g 

40 CFR 372.65 

EPA 2012h 

40 CFR 355, 

100 pounds Appendix A 

500 pounds 

No data EPA 2012i 

40 CFR 712.30 

No data EPA 2012j 

40 CFR 716.120 

No data NTP 2011 

aA guideline value was not established for hydrogen sulfide because it occurs in drinking-water at concentrations well 

below those of health concern; although it may affect acceptability of drinking water (WHO 2011). 

bERPG-1: maximum airborne concentration below which it is believed that nearly all individuals could be exposed for 

up to 1 hour without experiencing other than mild transient adverse health effects or perceiving a clearly defined, 

objectionable odor; ERPG-2: maximum airborne concentration below which it is believed that nearly all individuals 

could be exposed for up to 1 hour without experiencing or developing irreversible or other serious health effects or 

symptoms that could impair an individual's ability to take protective action; ERPG-3: is the maximum airborne 

concentration below which it is believed that nearly all individuals could be exposed for up to 1 hour without 

experiencing or developing life-threatening health effects (AIHA 2011). cOdor should be detectable near ERPG-1. dPAC-1: mild, transient health effects; PAC-2: irreversible or other serious health effects that could impair the ability to 

take protective action; PAC-3: life-threatening health effects (DOE 2012). eAEGL-1: is the airborne concentration of a substance above which it is predicted that the general population, 

including susceptible individuals, could experience notable discomfort, irritation, or certain asymptomatic, nonsensory 

effects; however, these effects are not disabling and are transient and reversible upon cessation of exposure; 

AEGL-2: is the airborne concentration of a substance above which it is predicted that the general population, 

including susceptible individuals, could experience irreversible or other serious, long-lasting, adverse health effects or 

an impaired ability to escape; AEGL-3: is the airborne concentration of a substance above which it is predicted that 

the general population, including susceptible individuals, could experience life-threatening adverse health effects or 

death (EPA 2013a). 

f

The EAFUS list of substances contains ingredients added directly to food that FDA has either approved as food 

additives or listed or affirmed as GRAS. 

gHydrogen sulfide does not meet the toxicity criteria but because of its acute lethality, high production volume, or 

known risk it is considered a chemical of concern. 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 213 

8. REGULATIONS, ADVISORIES, AND GUIDELINES 

Table 8-1. Regulations and Guidelines Applicable to Hydrogen Sulfide 

Agency Description Information Reference 

ACGIH = American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists; AEGL = acute exposure guideline levels;
 

AIHA = American Industrial Hygiene Association; CERCLA = Comprehensive Environmental Response,
 

Compensation, and Liability Act; CFR = Code of Federal Regulations; DOE = Department of Energy;
 

EAFUS = Everything Added to Food in the United States; EPA = Environmental Protection Agency;
 

ERPG = emergency response planning guidelines; FDA = Food and Drug Administration; FR = Federal Register;
 

GRAS = generally recognized as safe; IARC = International Agency for Research on Cancer; IDLH = immediately
 

dangerous to life or health; IRIS = Integrated Risk Information System; NAAQS = National Ambient Air Quality
 

Standards; NIOSH = National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health; NTP = National Toxicology Program;
 

OSHA = Occupational Safety and Health Administration; PAC = protective action criteria; PBT = persistent,
 

bioaccumulative, and toxic; PEL = permissible exposure limit; RCRA = Resource Conservation and Recovery Act;
 

REL = recommended exposure limit; RfC = inhalation reference concentration; RfD = oral reference dose;
 

STEL = short-term exposure level; TLV = threshold limit values; TSCA = Toxic Substances Control Act;
 

TSD = treatment, storage, and disposal; TWA = time-weighted average; USC = United States Code; WHO = World
 

Health Organization
 
 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 214 

8. REGULATIONS, ADVISORIES, AND GUIDELINES 

Table 8-2. Regulations and Guidelines Applicable to Carbonyl Sulfide 

Agency Description Information Reference 

INTERNATIONAL 

Guidelines: 

IARC Carcinogenicity classification No data IARC 2013 

WHO Air quality guidelines No data WHO 2010 

Drinking water quality guidelines No data WHO 2011 

NATIONAL 

Regulations and 

Guidelines: 

a. Air 

ACGIH TLV (8-hour TWA) 5 ppm ACGIH 2012a 

AIHA ERPG-1, -2, -3 No data AIHA 2011 

DOE PAC-1a 5 ppm DOE 2012 

PAC-2 55 ppm 

PAC-3 150 ppm 

EPA AEGL-1b Not recommended due EPA 2013b 

to lack of warning 

properties 

AEGL-2 

10-minutes 69 ppm 

30-minutes 69 ppm 

60-minutes 55 ppm 

4-hours 34 ppm 

8-hours 23 ppm 

AEGL-3 

10-minutes 190 ppm 

30-minutes 190 ppm 

60-minutes 150 ppm 

4-hours 95 ppm 

8-hours 48 ppm 

Hazardous air pollutant Yes EPA 2009d 

42 USC 7412 

NAAQS No data EPA 2013d 

NIOSH REL (10-hour TWA) No data NIOSH 2013 

OSHA PEL (8-hour TWA) for general industry No data OSHA 2013c 

29 CFR 1910.1000, 

Table Z-1 

Highly hazardous chemicals No data OSHA 2013a 

29 CFR 1910.119, 

Appendix A 
 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 215 

8. REGULATIONS, ADVISORIES, AND GUIDELINES 

Table 8-2. Regulations and Guidelines Applicable to Carbonyl Sulfide 

Agency Description Information Reference 

NATIONAL (cont.) 

b. Water 

EPA Designated as hazardous substances in 

accordance with Section 311(b)(2)(A) of 

the Clean Water Act 

Drinking water contaminant candidate 

list 

Drinking water standards and health 

advisories 

National primary drinking water 

standards 

National recommended water quality 

criteria 

Reportable quantities of hazardous 

substances designated pursuant to 

Section 311 of the Clean Water Act 

c. Food 

FDA EAFUSc 

d. Other 

ACGIH Carcinogenicity classification 

EPA Carcinogenicity classification 

RfC 

RfD 

Identification and listing of hazardous 

waste 

Inert pesticide ingredients in pesticide 

products approved for nonfood use only 

Master Testing List 

RCRA waste minimization PBT priority 

chemical list 

Standards for owners and operators of 

hazardous waste TSD facilities; 

groundwater monitoring list 

Superfund, emergency planning, and 

community right-to-know 

Designated CERCLA hazardous 

substance and reportable quantity 

pursuant to Section 112 of the Clean 

Air Act 

Effective date of toxic chemical 

release reporting 

Extremely hazardous substances 

and its threshold planning quantity 

No data EPA 2012c 

40 CFR 116.4 

No data 

No data 

EPA 2009a 

74 FR 51850 

EPA 2012d 

No data EPA 2009b 

No data EPA 2009c 

No data EPA 2012a 

40 CFR 117.3 

No data FDA 2013 

No data 

No data 

No data 

No data 

No data 

No data 

ACGIH 2012a 

IRIS 2002 

EPA 2012b 

40 CFR 261, 

Appendix VIII 

EPA 2013c 

Yesd 

No data 

No data 

EPA 2013d 

EPA 1998b 

63 FR 60332 

EPA 2012e 

40 CFR 264, 

Appendix IX 

100 pounds EPA 2012f 

40 CFR 302.4 

01/01/1987 

No data 

EPA 2012g 

40 CFR 372.65 

EPA 2012h 

40 CFR 355, 

Appendix A 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 216 

8. REGULATIONS, ADVISORIES, AND GUIDELINES 

Table 8-2. Regulations and Guidelines Applicable to Carbonyl Sulfide 

Agency Description Information Reference 

NATIONAL (cont.) 

EPA TSCA chemical lists and reporting 

periods 

No data EPA 2012i 

40 CFR 712.30 

TSCA health and safety data reporting No data EPA 2012j 

40 CFR 716.120 

NTP Carcinogenicity classification No data NTP 2011 

aPAC-1: mild, transient health effects; PAC-2: irreversible or other serious health effects that could impair the ability to 

take protective action; PAC-3: life-threatening health effects (DOE 2012). bAEGL-1: is the airborne concentration of a substance above which it is predicted that the general population,
 

including susceptible individuals, could experience notable discomfort, irritation, or certain asymptomatic, nonsensory
 

effects; however, these effects are not disabling and are transient and reversible upon cessation of exposure;
 

AEGL-2: is the airborne concentration of a substance above which it is predicted that the general population,
 

including susceptible individuals, could experience irreversible or other serious, long-lasting, adverse health effects or
 

an impaired ability to escape; AEGL-3: is the airborne concentration of a substance above which it is predicted that
 

the general population, including susceptible individuals, could experience life-threatening adverse health effects or 

death (EPA 2013a).
 cThe EAFUS list of substances contains ingredients added directly to food that FDA has either approved as food 

additives or listed or affirmed as GRAS.
 dTesting action development underway for health effects including mutagenicity, acute and subchronic toxicity,
 

neurotoxicity, developmental and reproductive toxicity, carcinogenicity and immunotoxicity.
 

ACGIH = American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists; AEGL = acute exposure guideline levels;
 

AIHA = American Industrial Hygiene Association; CERCLA = Comprehensive Environmental Response,
 

Compensation, and Liability Act; CFR = Code of Federal Regulations; DOE = Department of Energy;
 

EAFUS = Everything Added to Food in the United States; EPA = Environmental Protection Agency;
 

ERPG = emergency response planning guidelines; FDA = Food and Drug Administration; FR = Federal Register;
 

GRAS = generally recognized as safe; IARC = International Agency for Research on Cancer; IRIS = Integrated Risk
 

Information System; NAAQS = National Ambient Air Quality Standards; NIOSH = National Institute for Occupational
 

Safety and Health; NTP = National Toxicology Program; OSHA = Occupational Safety and Health Administration;
 

PAC = protective action criteria; PBT = persistent, bioaccumulative, and toxic; PEL = permissible exposure limit;
 

RCRA = Resource Conservation and Recovery Act; REL = recommended exposure limit; RfC = inhalation reference 

concentration; RfD = oral reference dose; TLV = threshold limit values; TSCA = Toxic Substances Control Act; 

TSD = treatment, storage, and disposal; TWA = time-weighted average; USC = United States Code; WHO = World
 

Health Organization
 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

_______________________ 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 217 

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HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 249 

10. GLOSSARY 

Absorption—The taking up of liquids by solids, or of gases by solids or liquids. 

Acute Exposure—Exposure to a chemical for a duration of 14 days or less, as specified in the 

Toxicological Profiles. 

Adsorption—The adhesion in an extremely thin layer of molecules (as of gases, solutes, or liquids) to the 

surfaces of solid bodies or liquids with which they are in contact. 

Adsorption Coefficient (Koc)—The ratio of the amount of a chemical adsorbed per unit weight of 

organic carbon in the soil or sediment to the concentration of the chemical in solution at equilibrium. 

Adsorption Ratio (Kd)—The amount of a chemical adsorbed by sediment or soil (i.e., the solid phase) 

divided by the amount of chemical in the solution phase, which is in equilibrium with the solid phase, at a 

fixed solid/solution ratio. It is generally expressed in micrograms of chemical sorbed per gram of soil or 

sediment. 

Benchmark Dose (BMD)—Usually defined as the lower confidence limit on the dose that produces a 

specified magnitude of changes in a specified adverse response. For example, a BMD10 would be the 

dose at the 95% lower confidence limit on a 10% response, and the benchmark response (BMR) would be 

10%. The BMD is determined by modeling the dose response curve in the region of the dose response 

relationship where biologically observable data are feasible. 

Benchmark Dose Model—A statistical dose-response model applied to either experimental toxicological 

or epidemiological data to calculate a BMD. 

Bioconcentration Factor (BCF)—The quotient of the concentration of a chemical in aquatic organisms 

at a specific time or during a discrete time period of exposure divided by the concentration in the 

surrounding water at the same time or during the same period. 

Biomarkers—Broadly defined as indicators signaling events in biologic systems or samples. They have 

been classified as markers of exposure, markers of effect, and markers of susceptibility. 

Cancer Effect Level (CEL)—The lowest dose of chemical in a study, or group of studies, that produces 

significant increases in the incidence of cancer (or tumors) between the exposed population and its 

appropriate control. 

Carcinogen—A chemical capable of inducing cancer. 

Case-Control Study—A type of epidemiological study that examines the relationship between a 

particular outcome (disease or condition) and a variety of potential causative agents (such as toxic 

chemicals). In a case-controlled study, a group of people with a specified and well-defined outcome is 

identified and compared to a similar group of people without outcome. 

Case Report—Describes a single individual with a particular disease or exposure. These may suggest 

some potential topics for scientific research, but are not actual research studies. 

Case Series—Describes the experience of a small number of individuals with the same disease or 

exposure. These may suggest potential topics for scientific research, but are not actual research studies. 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 250 

10. GLOSSARY 

Ceiling Value—A concentration of a substance that should not be exceeded, even instantaneously. 

Chronic Exposure—Exposure to a chemical for 365 days or more, as specified in the Toxicological 

Profiles. 

Cohort Study—A type of epidemiological study of a specific group or groups of people who have had a 

common insult (e.g., exposure to an agent suspected of causing disease or a common disease) and are 

followed forward from exposure to outcome. At least one exposed group is compared to one unexposed 

group. 

Cross-sectional Study—A type of epidemiological study of a group or groups of people that examines 

the relationship between exposure and outcome to a chemical or to chemicals at one point in time. 

Data Needs—Substance-specific informational needs that if met would reduce the uncertainties of human 

health assessment. 

Developmental Toxicity—The occurrence of adverse effects on the developing organism that may result 

from exposure to a chemical prior to conception (either parent), during prenatal development, or 

postnatally to the time of sexual maturation. Adverse developmental effects may be detected at any point 

in the life span of the organism. 

Dose-Response Relationship—The quantitative relationship between the amount of exposure to a 

toxicant and the incidence of the adverse effects. 

Embryotoxicity and Fetotoxicity—Any toxic effect on the conceptus as a result of prenatal exposure to 

a chemical; the distinguishing feature between the two terms is the stage of development during which the 

insult occurs. The terms, as used here, include malformations and variations, altered growth, and in utero 

death. 

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Health Advisory—An estimate of acceptable drinking water 

levels for a chemical substance based on health effects information. A health advisory is not a legally 

enforceable federal standard, but serves as technical guidance to assist federal, state, and local officials. 

Epidemiology—Refers to the investigation of factors that determine the frequency and distribution of 

disease or other health-related conditions within a defined human population during a specified period. 

Genotoxicity—A specific adverse effect on the genome of living cells that, upon the duplication of 

affected cells, can be expressed as a mutagenic, clastogenic, or carcinogenic event because of specific 

alteration of the molecular structure of the genome. 

Half-life—A measure of rate for the time required to eliminate one half of a quantity of a chemical from 

the body or environmental media. 

Immediately Dangerous to Life or Health (IDLH)—The maximum environmental concentration of a 

contaminant from which one could escape within 30 minutes without any escape-impairing symptoms or 

irreversible health effects. 

Immunologic Toxicity—The occurrence of adverse effects on the immune system that may result from 

exposure to environmental agents such as chemicals. 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 251 

10. GLOSSARY 

Immunological Effects—Functional changes in the immune response. 

Incidence—The ratio of individuals in a population who develop a specified condition to the total 

number of individuals in that population who could have developed that condition in a specified time 

period. 

Intermediate Exposure—Exposure to a chemical for a duration of 15–364 days, as specified in the 

Toxicological Profiles. 

In Vitro—Isolated from the living organism and artificially maintained, as in a test tube. 

In Vivo—Occurring within the living organism. 

Lethal Concentration(LO) (LCLO)—The lowest concentration of a chemical in air that has been reported 

to have caused death in humans or animals. 

Lethal Concentration(50) (LC50)—A calculated concentration of a chemical in air to which exposure for 

a specific length of time is expected to cause death in 50% of a defined experimental animal population. 

Lethal Dose(LO) (LDLo)—The lowest dose of a chemical introduced by a route other than inhalation that 

has been reported to have caused death in humans or animals. 

Lethal Dose(50) (LD50)—The dose of a chemical that has been calculated to cause death in 50% of a 

defined experimental animal population. 

Lethal Time(50) (LT50)—A calculated period of time within which a specific concentration of a chemical 

is expected to cause death in 50% of a defined experimental animal population. 

Lowest-Observed-Adverse-Effect Level (LOAEL)—The lowest exposure level of chemical in a study, 

or group of studies, that produces statistically or biologically significant increases in frequency or severity 

of adverse effects between the exposed population and its appropriate control. 

Lymphoreticular Effects—Represent morphological effects involving lymphatic tissues such as the 

lymph nodes, spleen, and thymus. 

Malformations—Permanent structural changes that may adversely affect survival, development, or 

function. 

Minimal Risk Level (MRL)—An estimate of daily human exposure to a hazardous substance that is 

likely to be without an appreciable risk of adverse noncancer health effects over a specified route and 

duration of exposure. 

Modifying Factor (MF)—A value (greater than zero) that is applied to the derivation of a Minimal Risk 

Level (MRL) to reflect additional concerns about the database that are not covered by the uncertainty 

factors. The default value for a MF is 1. 

Morbidity—State of being diseased; morbidity rate is the incidence or prevalence of disease in a specific 

population. 

Mortality—Death; mortality rate is a measure of the number of deaths in a population during a specified 

interval of time. 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 252 

10. GLOSSARY 

Mutagen—A substance that causes mutations. A mutation is a change in the DNA sequence of a cell’s 

DNA. Mutations can lead to birth defects, miscarriages, or cancer. 

Necropsy—The gross examination of the organs and tissues of a dead body to determine the cause of 

death or pathological conditions. 

Neurotoxicity—The occurrence of adverse effects on the nervous system following exposure to a 

chemical. 

No-Observed-Adverse-Effect Level (NOAEL)—The dose of a chemical at which there were no 

statistically or biologically significant increases in frequency or severity of adverse effects seen between 

the exposed population and its appropriate control. Effects may be produced at this dose, but they are not 

considered to be adverse. 

Octanol-Water Partition Coefficient (Kow)—The equilibrium ratio of the concentrations of a chemical 

in n-octanol and water, in dilute solution. 

Odds Ratio (OR)—A means of measuring the association between an exposure (such as toxic substances 

and a disease or condition) that represents the best estimate of relative risk (risk as a ratio of the incidence 

among subjects exposed to a particular risk factor divided by the incidence among subjects who were not 

exposed to the risk factor). An OR of greater than 1 is considered to indicate greater risk of disease in the 

exposed group compared to the unexposed group. 

Organophosphate or Organophosphorus Compound—A phosphorus-containing organic compound 

and especially a pesticide that acts by inhibiting cholinesterase. 

Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL)—An Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) 

allowable exposure level in workplace air averaged over an 8-hour shift of a 40-hour workweek. 

Pesticide—General classification of chemicals specifically developed and produced for use in the control 

of agricultural and public health pests. 

Pharmacokinetics—The dynamic behavior of a material in the body, used to predict the fate 

(disposition) of an exogenous substance in an organism. Utilizing computational techniques, it provides 

the means of studying the absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion of chemicals by the body. 

Pharmacokinetic Model—A set of equations that can be used to describe the time course of a parent 

chemical or metabolite in an animal system. There are two types of pharmacokinetic models: data-based 

and physiologically-based. A data-based model divides the animal system into a series of compartments, 

which, in general, do not represent real, identifiable anatomic regions of the body, whereas the 

physiologically-based model compartments represent real anatomic regions of the body. 

Physiologically Based Pharmacodynamic (PBPD) Model—A type of physiologically based doseresponse model that quantitatively describes the relationship between target tissue dose and toxic end 

points. These models advance the importance of physiologically based models in that they clearly 

describe the biological effect (response) produced by the system following exposure to an exogenous 

substance. 

Physiologically Based Pharmacokinetic (PBPK) Model—Comprised of a series of compartments 

representing organs or tissue groups with realistic weights and blood flows. These models require a 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 253 

10. GLOSSARY 

variety of physiological information: tissue volumes, blood flow rates to tissues, cardiac output, alveolar 

ventilation rates, and possibly membrane permeabilities. The models also utilize biochemical 

information, such as air/blood partition coefficients, and metabolic parameters. PBPK models are also 

called biologically based tissue dosimetry models. 

Prevalence—The number of cases of a disease or condition in a population at one point in time. 

Prospective Study—A type of cohort study in which the pertinent observations are made on events 

occurring after the start of the study. A group is followed over time. 

q1*—The upper-bound estimate of the low-dose slope of the dose-response curve as determined by the 

multistage procedure. The q1* can be used to calculate an estimate of carcinogenic potency, the 

incremental excess cancer risk per unit of exposure (usually μg/L for water, mg/kg/day for food, and 

μg/m3 for air). 

Recommended Exposure Limit (REL)—A National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health 

(NIOSH) time-weighted average (TWA) concentration for up to a 10-hour workday during a 40-hour 

workweek. 

Reference Concentration (RfC)—An estimate (with uncertainty spanning perhaps an order of 

magnitude) of a continuous inhalation exposure to the human population (including sensitive subgroups) 

that is likely to be without an appreciable risk of deleterious noncancer health effects during a lifetime. 

The inhalation reference concentration is for continuous inhalation exposures and is appropriately 

expressed in units of mg/m3 or ppm. 

Reference Dose (RfD)—An estimate (with uncertainty spanning perhaps an order of magnitude) of the 

daily exposure of the human population to a potential hazard that is likely to be without risk of deleterious 

effects during a lifetime. The RfD is operationally derived from the no-observed-adverse-effect level 

(NOAEL, from animal and human studies) by a consistent application of uncertainty factors that reflect 

various types of data used to estimate RfDs and an additional modifying factor, which is based on a 

professional judgment of the entire database on the chemical. The RfDs are not applicable to 

nonthreshold effects such as cancer. 

Reportable Quantity (RQ)—The quantity of a hazardous substance that is considered reportable under 

the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA). Reportable 

quantities are (1) 1 pound or greater or (2) for selected substances, an amount established by regulation 

either under CERCLA or under Section 311 of the Clean Water Act. Quantities are measured over a 

24-hour period. 

Reproductive Toxicity—The occurrence of adverse effects on the reproductive system that may result 

from exposure to a chemical. The toxicity may be directed to the reproductive organs and/or the related 

endocrine system. The manifestation of such toxicity may be noted as alterations in sexual behavior, 

fertility, pregnancy outcomes, or modifications in other functions that are dependent on the integrity of 

this system. 

Retrospective Study—A type of cohort study based on a group of persons known to have been exposed 

at some time in the past. Data are collected from routinely recorded events, up to the time the study is 

undertaken. Retrospective studies are limited to causal factors that can be ascertained from existing 

records and/or examining survivors of the cohort. 

Risk—The possibility or chance that some adverse effect will result from a given exposure to a chemical. 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE 254 

10. GLOSSARY 

Risk Factor—An aspect of personal behavior or lifestyle, an environmental exposure, or an inborn or 

inherited characteristic that is associated with an increased occurrence of disease or other health-related 

event or condition. 

Risk Ratio—The ratio of the risk among persons with specific risk factors compared to the risk among 

persons without risk factors. A risk ratio greater than 1 indicates greater risk of disease in the exposed 

group compared to the unexposed group. 

Short-Term Exposure Limit (STEL)—The American Conference of Governmental Industrial 

Hygienists (ACGIH) maximum concentration to which workers can be exposed for up to 15 minutes 

continually. No more than four excursions are allowed per day, and there must be at least 60 minutes 

between exposure periods. The daily Threshold Limit Value-Time Weighted Average (TLV-TWA) may 

not be exceeded. 

Standardized Mortality Ratio (SMR)—A ratio of the observed number of deaths and the expected 

number of deaths in a specific standard population. 

Target Organ Toxicity—This term covers a broad range of adverse effects on target organs or 

physiological systems (e.g., renal, cardiovascular) extending from those arising through a single limited 

exposure to those assumed over a lifetime of exposure to a chemical. 

Teratogen—A chemical that causes structural defects that affect the development of an organism. 

Threshold Limit Value (TLV)—An American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists 

(ACGIH) concentration of a substance to which most workers can be exposed without adverse effect. 

The TLV may be expressed as a Time Weighted Average (TWA), as a Short-Term Exposure Limit 

(STEL), or as a ceiling limit (CL). 

Time-Weighted Average (TWA)—An allowable exposure concentration averaged over a specified 

period of time. For occupational exposure, it is generally expressed as exposure during an 8-hour 

workday or 40-hour workweek. 

Toxic Dose(50) (TD50)—A calculated dose of a chemical, introduced by a route other than inhalation, 

which is expected to cause a specific toxic effect in 50% of a defined experimental animal population. 

Toxicokinetic—The absorption, distribution, and elimination of toxic compounds in the living organism. 

Uncertainty Factor (UF)—A factor used in operationally deriving the Minimal Risk Level (MRL) or 

Reference Dose (RfD) or Reference Concentration (RfC) from experimental data. UFs are intended to 

account for (1) the variation in sensitivity among the members of the human population, (2) the 

uncertainty in extrapolating animal data to the case of human, (3) the uncertainty in extrapolating from 

data obtained in a study that is of less than lifetime exposure, and (4) the uncertainty in using lowestobserved-adverse-effect level (LOAEL) data rather than no-observed-adverse-effect level (NOAEL) data. 

A default for each individual UF is 10; if complete certainty in data exists, a value of 1 can be used; 

however, a reduced UF of 3 may be used on a case-by-case basis, 3 being the approximate logarithmic 

average of 10 and 1. 

Xenobiotic—Any chemical that is foreign to the biological system. 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE A-1 

APPENDIX A. ATSDR MINIMAL RISK LEVELS AND WORKSHEETS 

The Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA) [42 U.S.C. 

9601 et seq.], as amended by the Superfund Amendments and Reauthorization Act (SARA) [Pub. L. 99– 

499], requires that the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) develop jointly with 

the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), in order of priority, a list of hazardous substances most 

commonly found at facilities on the CERCLA National Priorities List (NPL), prepare toxicological 

profiles for each substance included on the priority list of hazardous substances, and assure the initiation 

of a research program to fill identified data needs associated with the substances. 

The toxicological profiles include an examination, summary, and interpretation of available toxicological 

information and epidemiologic evaluations of a hazardous substance. During the development of 

toxicological profiles, Minimal Risk Levels (MRLs) are derived when reliable and sufficient data exist to 

identify the target organ(s) of effect or the most sensitive health effect(s) for a specific duration for a 

given route of exposure. An MRL is an estimate of the daily human exposure to a hazardous substance 

that is likely to be without appreciable risk of adverse noncancer health effects over a specified duration 

of exposure. MRLs are based on noncancer health effects only and are not based on a consideration of 

cancer effects. These substance-specific estimates (which are intended to serve as screening levels) are 

used by ATSDR health assessors to identify contaminants and potential health effects that may be of 

concern at hazardous waste sites. It is important to note that MRLs are not intended to define clean-up or 

action levels. 

MRLs are derived for hazardous substances using the no-observed-adverse-effect level/uncertainty factor 

approach. They are below levels that might cause adverse health effects in the people most sensitive to 

such chemical-induced effects. MRLs are derived for acute (1–14 days), intermediate (15–364 days), and 

chronic (365 days and longer) durations and for the oral and inhalation routes of exposure. Currently, 

MRLs for the dermal route of exposure are not derived because ATSDR has not yet identified a method 

suitable for this route of exposure. MRLs are generally based on the most sensitive chemical-induced end 

point considered to be of relevance to humans. Serious health effects (such as irreparable damage to the 

liver or kidneys, or birth defects) are not used as a basis for establishing MRLs. Exposure to a level 

above the MRL does not mean that adverse health effects will occur. 

MRLs are intended only to serve as a screening tool to help public health professionals decide where to 

look more closely. They may also be viewed as a mechanism to identify those hazardous waste sites that 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE A-2 

APPENDIX A 

are not expected to cause adverse health effects. Most MRLs contain a degree of uncertainty because of 

the lack of precise toxicological information on the people who might be most sensitive (e.g., infants, 

elderly, nutritionally or immunologically compromised) to the effects of hazardous substances. ATSDR 

uses a conservative (i.e., protective) approach to address this uncertainty consistent with the public health 

principle of prevention. Although human data are preferred, MRLs often must be based on animal studies 

because relevant human studies are lacking. In the absence of evidence to the contrary, ATSDR assumes 

that humans are more sensitive to the effects of hazardous substance than animals and that certain persons 

may be particularly sensitive. Thus, the resulting MRL may be greater than 100-fold below levels that 

have been shown to be nontoxic in laboratory animals. 

Proposed MRLs undergo a rigorous review process: Health Effects/MRL Workgroup reviews within the 

Division of Toxicology and Human Health Sciences, expert panel peer reviews, and agency-wide MRL 

Workgroup reviews, with participation from other federal agencies and comments from the public. They 

are subject to change as new information becomes available concomitant with updating the toxicological 

profiles. Thus, MRLs in the most recent toxicological profiles supersede previously published levels. 

For additional information regarding MRLs, please contact the Division of Toxicology and Human 

Health Sciences, Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, 1600 Clifton Road NE, Mailstop 

F-57, Atlanta, Georgia 30329-4027. 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE A-3 

APPENDIX A 

MINIMAL RISK LEVEL (MRL) WORKSHEET 

Chemical Name: Hydrogen Sulfide 

CAS Number: 7783-06-4 

Date: November 2016 

Profile Status: Final 

Route: [x] Inhalation [ ] Oral 

Duration: [x] Acute [ ] Intermediate [ ] Chronic 

Graph Key: 17 

Species: Human 

Minimal Risk Level: 0.07 [ ] mg/kg/day [x] ppm 

Reference: Jäppinen P, Vikka V, Marttila O, et al. 1990. Exposure to hydrogen sulphide and respiratory 

function. Br J Intern Med 47:824-828. 

Experimental design: This study evaluated lung function in three male and seven female subjects with 

bronchial asthma requiring medication for 1–13 years; none of the subjects had severe asthma. The 

subjects were exposed to 2 ppm hydrogen sulfide for 30 minutes. Respiratory function in response to a 

histamine challenge was assessed prior to exposure and after exposure. 

Effect noted in study and corresponding doses: No statistically significant changes in forced vital 

capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1), and forced expiratory flow were noted. 

Airway resistance (Raw) and specific airway conductance (SGaw) did not show statistically significant 

changes when examined as a group. In two subjects, there were changes of over 30% in both Raw and 

SGaw; these changes were suggestive of bronchial obstruction. Additionally, 3 of 10 subjects 

complained of headaches after exposure. 

Dose and end point used for MRL derivation: 

[ ] NOAEL [X] LOAEL 

Uncertainty Factors used in MRL derivation: 

[x] 3 for use of a minimal LOAEL 

[ ] 10 for extrapolation from animals to humans 

[x] 3 for human variability 

[x] 3 for database deficiencies 

The 2 ppm concentration was considered a minimally adverse effect level because the changes in airway 

resistance and specific airway conductance were only observed in 2 of 10 subjects. Because the study 

was conducted using asthmatics (who are likely to be a sensitive subpopulation) a partial uncertainty 

factor of 3 was used to account for human variability. An additional uncertainty factor of 3 was used for 

database deficiencies due to concern for the short (30-minute) exposure duration in the principal study. 

Was a conversion factor used from ppm in food or water to a mg/body weight dose? No. 

If an inhalation study in animals, list conversion factors used in determining human equivalent dose: No. 

Was a conversion used from intermittent to continuous exposure? Not applicable. 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE A-4 

APPENDIX A 

Other additional studies or pertinent information that lend support to this MRL: Bhambhani et al. (1996b) 

evaluated the acute effects of hydrogen sulfide on the physiological and hematological health of male and 

female volunteers exposed to 5 ppm during two 30-minute sessions of submaximal exercise (50% of 

maximum aerobic power). No significant changes in any parameter were noted in the women, whereas 

the men showed a significant decrease in muscle citrate synthetase as well as nonsignificant changes in 

lactate, lactate dehydrogenase, and cytochrome oxidase. Together, these changes were considered 

indicative of compromise of aerobic metabolism. 

No respiratory or cardiovascular effects were observed in 16 male volunteers exposed by oral inhalation 

to hydrogen sulfide at 0.5, 2, or 5 ppm for >16 minutes while exercising (Bhambhani and Singh 1991). 

The end points examined included heart rate, oxygen uptake, carbon dioxide output, and blood gases. 

Airway resistance and conductance were not measured in this study. No significant changes in 

pulmonary function parameters were noted in individuals exposed to 10 ppm hydrogen sulfide for 

15 minutes during exercise (Bhambhani et al. 1996a). 

Respiratory distress was noted in two workers exposed to >40 ppm hydrogen sulfide for under 25 minutes 

(Spolyar 1951). In animals, impacts on the respiratory system such as increases in the cellularity and 

lactate dehydrogenase and alkaline phosphatase activity in bronchial lavage fluids have been seen at 

exposures as low as 10 ppm for 4 hours (Lopez et al. 1987), although without a dose-related trend. 

Moderate to massive pulmonary edema was observed in rats exposed to 375 or 399 ppm for 4 hours 

(Prior et al. 1990). A significant dose-related decrease in lung microsomal cytochrome c oxidase activity 

was seen in rats following a 4 hour exposure to 50, 200, or 400 ppm hydrogen sulfide (Khan et al. 1990). 

Similarly, succinate oxidase activity also decreased in a dose-related fashion; although no affect was 

observed at the lowest dose. Cytochrome oxidase levels returned to normal by 24 hours postexposure in 

animals in the 200 ppm group, but not the 400 ppm group. Exposure at the two higher dose levels was 

also associated with complete abolition of the zymosan-induced stimulation of respiratory rates of 

pulmonary alveolar macrophages and there were significant decreases in the number of viable 

macrophages in lung lavage fluids at the highest dose (Khan et al. 1991). 

Agency Contact (Chemical Manager): Selene Chou 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE A-5 

APPENDIX A 

MINIMAL RISK LEVEL (MRL) WORKSHEET 

Chemical Name: Hydrogen Sulfide 

CAS Number: 7783-06-4 

Date: November 2016 

Profile Status: Final 

Route: [x] Inhalation [ ] Oral 

Duration: [ ] Acute [x] Intermediate [ ] Chronic 

Graph Key: 41 

Species: Rat 

Minimal Risk Level: 0.02 [ ] mg/kg/day [x] ppm 

Reference: Brenneman KA, James RA, Gross EA, et al. 2000. Olfactory neuron loss in adult male CD 

rats following subchronic inhalation exposure to hydrogen sulfide. Toxicol Pathol 28(2):326-333. 

Experimental design: Groups of male Sprague Dawley rats (12/group) were exposed to 0, 10, 30, or 

80 ppm hydrogen sulfide 6 hours/day, 7 days/week for 10 weeks. Parameters used to assess toxicity were 

limited to extensive histopathological examination of the nasal cavity (six transverse sections examined 

via light microscopy; transverse sections form a series of circumferential slices [labeled levels 1–6], 

which allow for a thorough evaluation of all major structures and mucosae of the nasal cavity). 

Effect noted in study and corresponding doses: Nasal lesions occurred only in the olfactory mucosa in 

rats exposed to 30 or 80 ppm and consisted of multifocal, bilaterally symmetrical olfactory neuron loss 

and basal cell hyperplasia affecting the lining of the dorsal medial meatus and the dorsal and medial 

regions of the ethmoid recess. The severity of the olfactory lesions was scored as 1 mild, 2 moderate, or 

3 severe. For the olfactory neuron loss, the mild, moderate, or severe severity scores corresponded to 26– 

50, 51–75, and 76–100%, respectively, reduction in the normal thickness of the olfactory neuron layer. 

For the basal cell hyperplasia, mild, moderate, or severe severity scores corresponded to 1–33, 34–67, or 

68–100% of the normal thickness of the olfactory neuron cell layer replaced by basal cells. No olfactory 

lesions were observed in the controls or rats exposed to 10 ppm. At 30 ppm, olfactory neuron loss was 

observed at nasal levels 4 (11/12, severity 1.4) and 5 (9/12, severity 1.1) and basal cell hyperplasia was 

observed at nasal levels 4 (10/12, severity 1.8) and 5 (11/12, severity 1.3). At 80 ppm, olfactory neuron 

loss was observed at levels 3 (8/8, severity 2.4), 4 (12/12, severity 2.4), 5 (11/12, severity 1.5), and 

6 (5/12, severity 1.2-incidence not statistically significant) and basal cell hyperplasia was observed at 

nasal levels 4 (12/12, severity 1.2), 5 (11/12, severity 1.3), and 6 (6/12, severity 1.0). 

Dose and end point used for MRL derivation: Two approaches were considered for the derivation of the 

MRL: the traditional NOAEL/LOAEL approach and the benchmark dose (BMD) modeling approach. 

For the NOAEL/LOAEL approach, the MRL would be derived using the NOAEL of 10 ppm and LOAEL 

of 30 ppm for olfactory neuron loss and basal cell hyperplasia in the nasal olfactory epithelium. Two data 

sets were considered for BMD modeling: olfactory neuron loss and basal cell hyperplasia. Incidence 

data were reported for nasal section levels 3 (olfactory neuron loss only) through 6. Because the highest 

incidence of lesions in the 30 ppm group was found in level 4, these data were used for the BMD 

analyses. The incidence data are reported in Table A-1. 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE A-6 

APPENDIX A 

Table A-1. Incidence of Olfactory Neuron Loss ad Basal Cell Hyperplasia 

Observed in the Nasal Cavity of Male Rats Exposed to Hydrogen Sulfide 

for 10 Weeks 

Concentration (ppm) Incidence of olfactory neuron loss Incidence of basal cell hyperplasia 

0 0/12 0/12 

10 0/12 0/12 

30 11/12 10/12 

80 12/12 12/12 

Source: Brenneman et al. (2000) 

The steepness of the dose-response curve for both lesion types (in particular the lack of intermediate 

response levels) precludes BMD modeling. Therefore, the NOAEL/LOAEL approach was selected for 

MRL derivation. 

Uncertainty Factors used in MRL derivation: 

[ ] 10 for use of a minimal LOAEL 

[X] 3 for extrapolation from animals to humans with dosimetric adjustment 

[X] 10 for human variability 

Was a conversion factor used from ppm in food or water to mg/body weight dose? No. 

If an inhalation study in animals, list conversion factors used in determining human equivalent dose: 

NOAELADJ =10 ppm x 6 hours/24 hours x 7 days/7 days=2.5 ppm 

The human equivalent concentration (HEC) was calculated using the following equation (EPA 1994b) for 

category 1 gases: 

NOAELHEC = NOAELADJ x RDGRET 

The regional gas dose ratio for the extrathoracic region (RGDRET) of 0.184 was calculated using the 

following equation: 

 V 



 E 



 SAET rat RGDR ET =  V  E
 



SA 


 

 ET  human 

Where:
 

Ve is the minute volume and SAET is the surface area of the extrathoracic (ET) region of the 

respiratory tract.
 

Minute volume (Ve) 

Human: 13.8 L/minute (EPA 1994b) 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE A-7 

APPENDIX A 

Rat: 0.190 L/minute; calculated using the following EPA equation: 

ln(Ve) = b0 + b1ln(BW) 

For rats, b0 equals -0.578 and b1 equals 0.821. 

Because limited body weight data were reported in the study, a reference body weight of 

0.267 kg (EPA 1988) was used. 

EPA (1994b) rat and human respiratory surface area reference values: 

Extrathoracic 15.0 cm2 (rat) 200 cm2 (human) 

NOAEL[HEC] = NOAEL (ADJ) x RGDR = 2.5 ppm x 0.184 = 0.46 ppm 

The dosimetric model typically used to estimate a concentration for humans that would be equivalent to 

the exposure concentration in rats takes into account species differences in the surface area of the upper 

respiratory tract and inhalation rates. However, the model does not take into consideration that a larger 

portion of the rat nasal cavity is lined with olfactory epithelium compared to humans (50% in rats 

compared to 10% in humans) and differences in air flow patterns. A computational fluid dynamics model 

of the rat nasal epithelium developed for hydrogen sulfide (Moulin et al. 2002; Schroeter et al. 2006a, 

2006b) found strong correlations between the amount of hydrogen sulfide reaching the olfactory tissue 

and the severity of the lesions (Moulin et al. 2002) and between hydrogen sulfide flux (uptake by the 

olfactory tissue) and the lesion incidence (Schroeter et al. 2006a). Using data generated from hydrogen 

sulfide uptake simulations in the human nasal passage at exposure levels of 1–50 ppm, Schroeter et al. 

(2006a) derived regression equations for predicting the maximum and 99th percentile flux values in the 

human olfactory region. However, data for the uptake simulations in the human nasal passage were based 

on a model reconstructed from MRI images from one male individual and did not take into account the 

potential individual variability in parameters. Schroeter et al. (2010) noted that there is considerable 

variation in nasal anatomy that could affect airflow patterns and dosimetry of inhaled gases. No actual 

measurements of gas delivery or absorption across nasal membranes were made; the simulations of a 

single computer model were used by Schroeter et al. (2006a) to predict HECs. When Schroeter et al. 

(2010) used the same male subject and a different computer model to simulate gas uptake, the average 

airflux was 14% lower than estimated by Schroeter et al. (2006a). Using MRI data for five adults and two 

children aged 7 and 8 years, Schroeter et al. (2010) concluded that normal variations in nasal anatomy, 

breathing rate, and air flow distribution were not likely to result in large variations in olfactory wall mass 

flux of hydrogen sulfide. However, the study did not address potential variations in a wide range of 

childhood ages (including newborns and infants) and the sensitivity of hydrogen sulfide dosimetry to 

variations in pharmacokinetic parameters. The investigators recommended additional research on the 

influence of interindividual variability in absorption and pharmacodynamics effects of hydrogen sulfide in 

the nasal tissues to olfactory dose. Based on these uncertainties in the computational fluid dynamics 

model to predict a HEC, ATSDR estimated the NOAELHEC using the dosimetric model, which adjusts for 

surface area and breathing rate differences between rats and humans. Additionally, the Schroeter et al. 

(2010) study does not support a reduction in the uncertainty factor for human variability. 

Was a conversion used from intermittent to continuous exposure? The NOAEL was adjusted for 

intermittent exposure (6 hours/day, 7 days/week). 

Other additional studies or pertinent information that lend support to this MRL: Intermediate-duration 

animal studies support the identification of the respiratory tract and nervous system as sensitive targets. 

Studies conducted by CIIT (1983b, 1983c) did not find significant alterations in the nasal turbinates of 

Sprague-Dawley or Fischer-344 (F-344) rats exposed to 80 ppm or less hydrogen sulfide 6 hours/day, 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE A-8 

APPENDIX A 

5 days/week for 13 weeks. Inflammation of the squamous portion of the nasal mucosa was observed in 

mice exposed to 80 ppm hydrogen sulfide, 6 hours/day, 5 days/week for 13 weeks (CIIT 1983a); the 

NOAEL for this effect is 30 ppm. However, a re-examination of the histological specimens from this 

study (Dorman et al. 2004) revealed a statistically significant increase in the incidence of olfactory neuron 

loss in Sprague-Dawley rats, F-344 rats, and B6C3F1 mice exposed to 30 or 80 ppm; no lesions were 

observed at 10 ppm. In addition, increases in the incidence of bronchiolar epithelial hyperplasia and 

hypertrophy were observed in female Sprague-Dawley rats exposed to 30 or 80 ppm and male SpragueDawley and F-344 rats exposed to 80 ppm. The sensitivity of the olfactory epithelium has also been 

confirmed by acute-duration studies. Degeneration of the olfactory epithelium was observed in rats 

exposed to 400 ppm hydrogen sulfide for 4 hours (Lopez et al. 1988b), rats exposed to 200 ppm for 

3 hours (Brenneman et al. 2002), and rats exposed to 80 ppm, 3 hours/day for 5 days (Brenneman et al. 

2002). Additionally, data collected using a computational fluid dynamics model of the rat nasal 

epithelium (Moulin et al. 2002) suggest that the olfactory epithelium is more sensitive than the nasal 

respiratory epithelium despite the higher hydrogen sulfide flux (a surrogate for dose) to the regions lined 

with respiratory epithelium compared to regions lined with olfactory epithelium. Within the areas of the 

nose lined with olfactory epithelium, a high correlation between predicted hydrogen sulfide flux and the 

incidence of olfactory lesion was found. 

The neurotoxicity of hydrogen sulfide in mature animals following intermediate-duration exposure has 

been assessed in studies examining brain weight, neurological function (posture, gait, tone of facial 

muscles, and pupillary reflexes), and histopathology; neurobehavioral performance has not been 

adequately assessed in longer duration studies. A 5% decrease in absolute brain weight was observed in 

Sprague-Dawley rats exposed to 80 ppm hydrogen sulfide 6 hours/day, 5 days/week for 13 weeks; no 

alterations were observed at 30 ppm (CIIT 1983c). No alterations in histopathology or neurological 

function were observed in these rats (CIIT 1983c) or in similarly exposed F-344 rats (CIIT 1983b) or 

B6C3F1 mice (CIIT 1983a). Neurodevelopmental toxicity studies have found some alterations that are 

suggestive of neurotoxicity. The suggestive findings in the offspring of rats exposed for 7 hours/day on 

gestational day 5 through postnatal day 21 include alterations in the architecture and growth 

characteristics of Purkinje cell dendritic fields at 20 ppm (Hannah and Roth 1991), decreases in 

norepinephrine and increases in serotonin in the frontal cortex at 20 ppm (Skrajny et al. 1992), and 

decreases in brain amino acid levels at 75 ppm (Hannah et al. 1989, 1990). However, no alterations in 

neurobehavioral performance (assessed via motor activity, passive avoidance, acoustic startle, and 

functional observation battery), delays in development (pinnae detachment, surface righting, incisor 

eruption, negative geotaxis, and eyelid detachment), or neuropathology were observed in the offspring of 

rats exposed 6 hours/day, 7 days/week for 2 weeks prior to mating, during mating, on gestation days 5– 

19, and on postnatal days 5–18 (Dorman et al. 2000). These data suggest that exposures of 20–80 ppm 

may result in subclinical alterations in neurochemistry and neuroanatomy. 

Agency Contact (Chemical Manager): Selene Chou 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE B-1 

APPENDIX B. USER'S GUIDE 

Chapter 1 

Public Health Statement 

This chapter of the profile is a health effects summary written in non-technical language. Its intended 

audience is the general public, especially people living in the vicinity of a hazardous waste site or 

chemical release. If the Public Health Statement were removed from the rest of the document, it would 

still communicate to the lay public essential information about the chemical. 

The major headings in the Public Health Statement are useful to find specific topics of concern. The 

topics are written in a question and answer format. The answer to each question includes a sentence that 

will direct the reader to chapters in the profile that will provide more information on the given topic. 

Chapter 2 

Relevance to Public Health 

This chapter provides a health effects summary based on evaluations of existing toxicologic, 

epidemiologic, and toxicokinetic information. This summary is designed to present interpretive, weightof-evidence discussions for human health end points by addressing the following questions: 

1.	 What effects are known to occur in humans? 

2.	 What effects observed in animals are likely to be of concern to humans? 

3.	 What exposure conditions are likely to be of concern to humans, especially around hazardous 

waste sites? 

The chapter covers end points in the same order that they appear within the Discussion of Health Effects 

by Route of Exposure section, by route (inhalation, oral, and dermal) and within route by effect. Human 

data are presented first, then animal data. Both are organized by duration (acute, intermediate, and 

chronic). In vitro data and data from parenteral routes (intramuscular, intravenous, subcutaneous, etc.) 

are also considered in this chapter. 

The carcinogenic potential of the profiled substance is qualitatively evaluated (when appropriate) using 

existing toxicokinetic, genotoxic, and carcinogenic data. ATSDR does not currently assess cancer 

potency or perform cancer risk assessments. Minimal Risk Levels (MRLs) for noncancer end points (if 

derived) and the end points from which they were derived are indicated and discussed. 

Limitations to existing scientific literature that prevent a satisfactory evaluation of the relevance to public 

health are identified in the Chapter 3 Data Needs section. 

Interpretation of Minimal Risk Levels 

Where sufficient toxicologic information is available, ATSDR has derived MRLs for inhalation and oral 

routes of entry at each duration of exposure (acute, intermediate, and chronic). These MRLs are not 

meant to support regulatory action, but to acquaint health professionals with exposure levels at which 

adverse health effects are not expected to occur in humans. 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE B-2 

APPENDIX B 

MRLs should help physicians and public health officials determine the safety of a community living near 

a chemical emission, given the concentration of a contaminant in air or the estimated daily dose in water. 

MRLs are based largely on toxicological studies in animals and on reports of human occupational 

exposure. 

MRL users should be familiar with the toxicologic information on which the number is based. Chapter 2: 

"Relevance to Public Health," contains basic information known about the substance. Other sections such 

as Chapter 3 Section 3.9: "Interactions with Other Substances,” and Section 3.10: "Populations that are 

Unusually Susceptible" provide important supplemental information. 

MRL users should also understand the MRL derivation methodology. MRLs are derived using a 

modified version of the risk assessment methodology that the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) 

provides (Barnes and Dourson 1988) to determine reference doses (RfDs) for lifetime exposure. 

To derive an MRL, ATSDR generally selects the most sensitive end point which, in its best judgement, 

represents the most sensitive human health effect for a given exposure route and duration. ATSDR 

cannot make this judgement or derive an MRL unless information (quantitative or qualitative) is available 

for all potential systemic, neurological, and developmental effects. If this information and reliable 

quantitative data on the chosen end point are available, ATSDR derives an MRL using the most sensitive 

species (when information from multiple species is available) with the highest no-observed-adverse-effect 

level (NOAEL) that does not exceed any adverse effect levels. When a NOAEL is not available, a 

lowest-observed-adverse-effect level (LOAEL) can be used to derive an MRL, and an uncertainty factor 

(UF) of 10 must be employed. Additional uncertainty factors of 10 must be used both for human 

variability to protect sensitive subpopulations (people who are most susceptible to the health effects 

caused by the substance) and for interspecies variability (extrapolation from animals to humans). In 

deriving an MRL, these individual uncertainty factors are multiplied together. The product is then 

divided into the inhalation concentration or oral dosage selected from the study. Uncertainty factors used 

in developing a substance-specific MRL are provided in the footnotes of the levels of significant exposure 

(LSE) tables. 

Chapter 3 

Health Effects 

Tables and Figures for Levels of Significant Exposure (LSE) 

Tables and figures are used to summarize health effects and illustrate graphically the levels of exposure 

associated with those effects. These levels cover health effects observed at increasing dose 

concentrations and durations, differences in response by species, MRLs to humans for noncancer end 

points, and EPA's estimated range associated with an upper- bound individual lifetime cancer risk of 1 in 

10,000 to 1 in 10,000,000. Use the LSE tables and figures for a quick review of the health effects and to 

locate data for a specific exposure scenario. The LSE tables and figures should always be used in 

conjunction with the text. All entries in these tables and figures represent studies that provide reliable, 

quantitative estimates of NOAELs, LOAELs, or Cancer Effect Levels (CELs). 

The legends presented below demonstrate the application of these tables and figures. Representative 

examples of LSE Table 3-1 and Figure 3-1 are shown. The numbers in the left column of the legends 

correspond to the numbers in the example table and figure. 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE B-3 

APPENDIX B 

LEGEND 

See Sample LSE Table 3-1 (page B-6) 

(1)	 Route of Exposure. One of the first considerations when reviewing the toxicity of a substance 

using these tables and figures should be the relevant and appropriate route of exposure. Typically 

when sufficient data exist, three LSE tables and two LSE figures are presented in the document. 

The three LSE tables present data on the three principal routes of exposure, i.e., inhalation, oral, 

and dermal (LSE Tables 3-1, 3-2, and 3-3, respectively). LSE figures are limited to the inhalation 

(LSE Figure 3-1) and oral (LSE Figure 3-2) routes. Not all substances will have data on each 

route of exposure and will not, therefore, have all five of the tables and figures. 

(2)	 Exposure Period. Three exposure periods—acute (less than 15 days), intermediate (15– 

364 days), and chronic (365 days or more)—are presented within each relevant route of exposure. 

In this example, an inhalation study of intermediate exposure duration is reported. For quick 

reference to health effects occurring from a known length of exposure, locate the applicable 

exposure period within the LSE table and figure. 

(3)	 Health Effect. The major categories of health effects included in LSE tables and figures are 

death, systemic, immunological, neurological, developmental, reproductive, and cancer. 

NOAELs and LOAELs can be reported in the tables and figures for all effects but cancer. 

Systemic effects are further defined in the "System" column of the LSE table (see key number 

18). 

(4)	 Key to Figure. Each key number in the LSE table links study information to one or more data 

points using the same key number in the corresponding LSE figure. In this example, the study 

represented by key number 18 has been used to derive a NOAEL and a Less Serious LOAEL 

(also see the two "18r" data points in sample Figure 3-1). 

(5)	 Species. The test species, whether animal or human, are identified in this column. Chapter 2: 

"Relevance to Public Health," covers the relevance of animal data to human toxicity and 

Section 3.4: "Toxicokinetics," contains any available information on comparative toxicokinetics. 

Although NOAELs and LOAELs are species specific, the levels are extrapolated to equivalent 

human doses to derive an MRL. 

(6)	 Exposure Frequency/Duration. The duration of the study and the weekly and daily exposure 

regimens are provided in this column. This permits comparison of NOAELs and LOAELs from 

different studies. In this case (key number 18), rats were exposed to “Chemical x” via inhalation 

for 6 hours/day, 5 days/week for 13 weeks. For a more complete review of the dosing regimen, 

refer to the appropriate sections of the text or the original reference paper (i.e., Nitschke et al. 

1981). 

(7)	 System. This column further defines the systemic effects. These systems include respiratory, 

cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, hematological, musculoskeletal, hepatic, renal, and 

dermal/ocular. "Other" refers to any systemic effect (e.g., a decrease in body weight) not covered 

in these systems. In the example of key number 18, one systemic effect (respiratory) was 

investigated. 

(8)	 NOAEL. A NOAEL is the highest exposure level at which no harmful effects were seen in the 

organ system studied. Key number 18 reports a NOAEL of 3 ppm for the respiratory system, 

which was used to derive an intermediate exposure, inhalation MRL of 0.005 ppm (see 

footnote "b"). 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE B-4 

APPENDIX B 

(9)	 LOAEL. A LOAEL is the lowest dose used in the study that caused a harmful health effect. 

LOAELs have been classified into "Less Serious" and "Serious" effects. These distinctions help 

readers identify the levels of exposure at which adverse health effects first appear and the 

gradation of effects with increasing dose. A brief description of the specific end point used to 

quantify the adverse effect accompanies the LOAEL. The respiratory effect reported in key 

number 18 (hyperplasia) is a Less Serious LOAEL of 10 ppm. MRLs are not derived from 

Serious LOAELs. 

(10)	 Reference. The complete reference citation is given in Chapter 9 of the profile. 

(11)	 CEL. A CEL is the lowest exposure level associated with the onset of carcinogenesis in 

experimental or epidemiologic studies. CELs are always considered serious effects. The LSE 

tables and figures do not contain NOAELs for cancer, but the text may report doses not causing 

measurable cancer increases. 

(12)	 Footnotes. Explanations of abbreviations or reference notes for data in the LSE tables are found 

in the footnotes. Footnote "b" indicates that the NOAEL of 3 ppm in key number 18 was used to 

derive an MRL of 0.005 ppm. 

LEGEND 

See Sample Figure 3-1 (page B-7) 

LSE figures graphically illustrate the data presented in the corresponding LSE tables. Figures help the 

reader quickly compare health effects according to exposure concentrations for particular exposure 

periods. 

(13)	 Exposure Period. The same exposure periods appear as in the LSE table. In this example, health 

effects observed within the acute and intermediate exposure periods are illustrated. 

(14)	 Health Effect. These are the categories of health effects for which reliable quantitative data 

exists. The same health effects appear in the LSE table. 

(15)	 Levels of Exposure. Concentrations or doses for each health effect in the LSE tables are 

graphically displayed in the LSE figures. Exposure concentration or dose is measured on the log 

scale "y" axis. Inhalation exposure is reported in mg/m3 or ppm and oral exposure is reported in 

mg/kg/day. 

(16)	 NOAEL. In this example, the open circle designated 18r identifies a NOAEL critical end point in 

the rat upon which an intermediate inhalation exposure MRL is based. The key number 18 

corresponds to the entry in the LSE table. The dashed descending arrow indicates the 

extrapolation from the exposure level of 3 ppm (see entry 18 in the table) to the MRL of 

0.005 ppm (see footnote "b" in the LSE table). 

(17)	 CEL. Key number 38m is one of three studies for which CELs were derived. The diamond 

symbol refers to a CEL for the test species-mouse. The number 38 corresponds to the entry in the 

LSE table. 
 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE B-5 

APPENDIX B 

(18)	 Estimated Upper-Bound Human Cancer Risk Levels. This is the range associated with the upperbound for lifetime cancer risk of 1 in 10,000 to 1 in 10,000,000. These risk levels are derived 

from the EPA's Human Health Assessment Group's upper-bound estimates of the slope of the 

cancer dose response curve at low dose levels (q1*). 

(19)	 Key to LSE Figure. The Key explains the abbreviations and symbols used in the figure. 
SAMPLE

1 → Table 3-1. Levels of Significant Exposure to [Chemical x] – Inhalation 

LOAEL (effect) Exposure 

Key to Less serious Serious (ppm) frequency/ NOAEL (ppm) figurea Species duration System (ppm) Re

2 3 4 

→ INTERMEDIATE EXPOSURE 

5 

→ Systemic ↓

18 Rat 

→

CHRONIC EXPOSURE Cancer 38 Rat 39 Rat 40 Mouse 

6 ↓13 wk 5 d/wk 6 hr/d 18 mo 5 d/wk 7 hr/d 89–104 wk 5 d/wk 6 hr/d 79–103 wk 5 d/wk 6 hr/d 

7 8 9 ↓ ↓ ↓Resp 3b 10 (hyperplasia) 

11 ↓20 (CEL, multiple 

organs) 

10 (CEL, lung tumors, 

nasal tumors) 

10 (CEL, lung tumors, 

hemangiosarcomas) 

10 

↓

NitWoNTNT

12 → a The number corresponds to entries in Figure 3-1. 

b Used to derive an intermediate inhalation Minimal Risk Level (MRL) of 5x10-3 ppm; dose adjusted for intermittent exby an uncertainty factor of 100 (10 for extrapolation from animal to humans, 10 for human variability). 
Intermediate (15-364 days) Chronic (≥ 365 days) 
HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE B-8 

APPENDIX B 

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HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE C-1 

APPENDIX C. ACRONYMS, ABBREVIATIONS, AND SYMBOLS 

ACGIH American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists 

ACOEM American College of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 

ADI acceptable daily intake 

ADME absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion 

AED atomic emission detection 

AFID alkali flame ionization detector 

AFOSH Air Force Office of Safety and Health 

ALT alanine aminotransferase 

AML acute myeloid leukemia 

AOAC Association of Official Analytical Chemists 

AOEC Association of Occupational and Environmental Clinics 

AP alkaline phosphatase 

APHA American Public Health Association 

AST aspartate aminotransferase 

atm atmosphere 

ATSDR Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry 

AWQC Ambient Water Quality Criteria 

BAT best available technology 

BCF bioconcentration factor 

BEI Biological Exposure Index 

BMD/C benchmark dose or benchmark concentration 

BMDX dose that produces a X% change in response rate of an adverse effect 

BMDLX 95% lower confidence limit on the BMDX 

BMDS Benchmark Dose Software 

BMR benchmark response 

BSC Board of Scientific Counselors 

C centigrade 

CAA Clean Air Act 

CAG Cancer Assessment Group of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency 

CAS Chemical Abstract Services 

CDC Centers for Disease Control and Prevention 

CEL cancer effect level 

CELDS Computer-Environmental Legislative Data System 

CERCLA Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act 

CFR Code of Federal Regulations 

Ci curie 

CI confidence interval 

CL ceiling limit value 

CLP Contract Laboratory Program 

cm centimeter 

CML chronic myeloid leukemia 

CPSC Consumer Products Safety Commission 

CWA Clean Water Act 

DHEW Department of Health, Education, and Welfare 

DHHS Department of Health and Human Services 

DNA deoxyribonucleic acid 

DOD Department of Defense 

DOE Department of Energy 

DOL Department of Labor 
 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE C-2 

APPENDIX C 

DOT Department of Transportation 

DOT/UN/ Department of Transportation/United Nations/ 

NA/IMDG North America/Intergovernmental Maritime Dangerous Goods Code 

DWEL drinking water exposure level 

ECD electron capture detection 

ECG/EKG electrocardiogram 

EEG electroencephalogram 

EEGL Emergency Exposure Guidance Level 

EPA Environmental Protection Agency 

F Fahrenheit 

F1 first-filial generation 

FAO Food and Agricultural Organization of the United Nations 

FDA Food and Drug Administration 

FEMA Federal Emergency Management Agency 

FIFRA Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act 

FPD flame photometric detection 

fpm feet per minute 

FR Federal Register 

FSH follicle stimulating hormone 

g gram 

GC gas chromatography 

gd gestational day 

GLC gas liquid chromatography 

GPC gel permeation chromatography 

HPLC high-performance liquid chromatography 

HRGC high resolution gas chromatography 

HSDB Hazardous Substance Data Bank 

IARC International Agency for Research on Cancer 

IDLH immediately dangerous to life and health 

ILO International Labor Organization 

IRIS Integrated Risk Information System 

Kd adsorption ratio 

kg kilogram 

kkg metric ton 

Koc organic carbon partition coefficient 

Kow octanol-water partition coefficient 

L liter 

LC liquid chromatography 

LC50 lethal concentration, 50% kill 

LCLo lethal concentration, low 

LD50 lethal dose, 50% kill 

LDLo lethal dose, low 

LDH lactic dehydrogenase 

LH luteinizing hormone 

LOAEL lowest-observed-adverse-effect level 

LSE Levels of Significant Exposure 

LT50 lethal time, 50% kill 

m meter 

MA trans,trans-muconic acid 

MAL maximum allowable level 

mCi millicurie 
 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE C-3 

APPENDIX C 

MCL maximum contaminant level 

MCLG maximum contaminant level goal 

MF modifying factor 

MFO mixed function oxidase 

mg milligram 

mL milliliter 

mm millimeter 

mmHg millimeters of mercury 

mmol millimole 

mppcf millions of particles per cubic foot 

MRL Minimal Risk Level 

MS mass spectrometry 

NAAQS National Ambient Air Quality Standard 

NAS National Academy of Science 

NATICH National Air Toxics Information Clearinghouse 

NATO North Atlantic Treaty Organization 

NCE normochromatic erythrocytes 

NCEH National Center for Environmental Health 

NCI National Cancer Institute 

ND not detected 

NFPA National Fire Protection Association 

ng nanogram 

NHANES National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 

NIEHS National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences 

NIOSH National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health 

NIOSHTIC NIOSH's Computerized Information Retrieval System 

NLM National Library of Medicine 

nm nanometer 

nmol nanomole 

NOAEL no-observed-adverse-effect level 

NOES National Occupational Exposure Survey 

NOHS National Occupational Hazard Survey 

NPD nitrogen phosphorus detection 

NPDES National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System 

NPL National Priorities List 

NR not reported 

NRC National Research Council 

NS not specified 

NSPS New Source Performance Standards 

NTIS National Technical Information Service 

NTP National Toxicology Program 

ODW Office of Drinking Water, EPA 

OERR Office of Emergency and Remedial Response, EPA 

OHM/TADS Oil and Hazardous Materials/Technical Assistance Data System 

OPP Office of Pesticide Programs, EPA 

OPPT Office of Pollution Prevention and Toxics, EPA 

OPPTS Office of Prevention, Pesticides and Toxic Substances, EPA 

OR odds ratio 

OSHA Occupational Safety and Health Administration 

OSW Office of Solid Waste, EPA 

OTS Office of Toxic Substances 
 

 

 

 

 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE C-4 

APPENDIX C 

OW Office of Water 

OWRS Office of Water Regulations and Standards, EPA 

PAH polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon 

PBPD physiologically based pharmacodynamic PBPK physiologically based pharmacokinetic 

PCE polychromatic erythrocytes 

PEL permissible exposure limit 

pg picogram 

PHS Public Health Service 

PID photo ionization detector 

pmol picomole 

PMR proportionate mortality ratio 

ppb parts per billion 

ppm parts per million 

ppt parts per trillion 

PSNS pretreatment standards for new sources 

RBC red blood cell 

REL recommended exposure level/limit 

RfC reference concentration 

RfD reference dose 

RNA ribonucleic acid 

RQ reportable quantity 

RTECS Registry of Toxic Effects of Chemical Substances 

SARA Superfund Amendments and Reauthorization Act 

SCE sister chromatid exchange 

SGOT serum glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase 

SGPT serum glutamic pyruvic transaminase 

SIC standard industrial classification 

SIM selected ion monitoring SMCL secondary maximum contaminant level 

SMR standardized mortality ratio 

SNARL suggested no adverse response level 

SPEGL Short-Term Public Emergency Guidance Level 

STEL short term exposure limit 

STORET Storage and Retrieval 

TD50 toxic dose, 50% specific toxic effect 

TLV threshold limit value 

TOC total organic carbon 

TPQ threshold planning quantity 

TRI Toxics Release Inventory 

TSCA Toxic Substances Control Act 

TWA time-weighted average 

UF uncertainty factor 

U.S. United States 

USDA United States Department of Agriculture 

USGS United States Geological Survey 

VOC volatile organic compound 

WBC white blood cell 

WHO World Health Organization 
 

HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND CARBONYL SULFIDE C-5 

APPENDIX C 

> greater than 

≥ greater than or equal to 

= equal to 

< less than 

≤ less than or equal to 

% percent 

α alpha 

β beta 

γ gamma 

δ delta 

μm micrometer 

μg microgram q1

* cancer slope factor 

– negative 

+ positive 

(+) weakly positive result 

(–) weakly negative result