BASIC H2S TRAINING – OPITO

Course Purpose

The course provides participants with the knowledge and practical skills required to respond appropriately to an emergency in environments that may be contaminated by hydrogen sulphide.

Course Structure

The course includes theoretical and practical training covering the properties and characteristics of H₂S, the potential hazards and effects associated with exposure, gas detection systems and escape equipment, in accordance with OPITO standards.

The course is delivered in Italian and, upon request, in English.

Basic H2S Training – OPITO Certified Course Programme

Theoretical Training

• H₂S, its commonly used names and where it may be found
• Physical properties and characteristics of H₂S
• Common terminology, including units of measurement such as parts per million (ppm), and Occupational Exposure Limits and Workplace Exposure Limits (OEL/WEL)
• H₂S exposure limits
• Physiological effects of exposure to H₂S
• How H₂S is detected and the use of personal gas detection equipment
• Actions to be taken in the event of an alarm
• Types of respiratory protective equipment available, including Escape Breathing Apparatus (EBA) and open-circuit Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA), and the importance of achieving an effective face-mask seal
• The role of the emergency response team during an H₂S release

Practical Training

Personal H₂S Detectors

• Pre-use checks
• Operation
• Responding to an alarm

Escape Breathing Apparatus (EBA) fitted with a face mask

• Pre-use checks
• Operation

Escape Breathing Apparatus (EBA) fitted with a hood

• Pre-use checks
• Operation
• Connecting to a pressurised breathing-air supply while wearing a correctly fitted and activated hood
• Disconnecting from a pressurised breathing-air supply while wearing a correctly fitted and activated hood

Participants must hold one of the following:

• A valid offshore medical certificate; or
• A valid medical certificate confirming fitness to participate in the course

Upon successful completion of all practical assessments and the final test, participants will receive an OPITO-approved Basic H₂S Training certificate.