Sewer gas is a complex mixture of that are formed during the decay of household and industrial waste. Highly toxic components of sewer gas include hydrogen sulfide, carbon monoxide, and ammonia. Sewer gas also contains methane, carbon dioxide, sulfur dioxide, and nitrous oxides. In addition, chlorine bleaches, industrial solvents, and gasoline are frequently present in municipal and privately owned-sewage treatment systems.
Sewer gas can enter a home through a floor drain or through a blocked gas vent.
Prevent sewer gas from entering a home by ensuring that gas traps in floor drains are filled with water and that gas vents are clear of debris. Sanitary and farm workers can be exposed to sewer gas during the cleaning and maintenance of municipal sewers, manure storage tanks, and home septic tanks. Sewer gas is a complex mixture of toxic and non-toxic gases that can be present at varying levels depending upon the source of the sewage. Hydrogen sulfide poisoning. Exposure to low levels of hydrogen sulfide causes irritation of the eyes and respiratory tract.