How did hydrogen sulphide gas levels become fatal in the tank?

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Hydrogen Sulphide Gas Levels Became Fatal Due to Exceeding Safe Thresholds in a Confined Space

Two workers died on May 24 and May 28, 2024, after being exposed to hydrogen sulphide gas while cleaning a water treatment process tank at Choa Chu Kang Waterworks. Investigations revealed that sensors at the location had recorded hydrogen sulphide levels exceeding safe thresholds, and an alarm had been triggered at the time of the incident. This toxic gas can be fatal even at low concentrations, leading to the deaths of the workers who entered an enclosed passage beneath the tank.
Exposure During Tank Cleaning Operation

On May 23, 2024, four workers, including those from Stargroup and its subcontractor, were engaged in cleaning a water treatment process tank. During this operation, three workers entered an enclosed passage beneath the tank to close hand valves. It was within this confined space that they encountered hazardous levels of hydrogen sulphide gas.
Toxic Nature of Hydrogen Sulphide Gas

Investigations conducted by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) confirmed that the workers were exposed to hydrogen sulphide gas. This gas is known to be toxic and poses a significant risk, capable of causing fatalities even when present in low concentrations. The incident highlights the inherent dangers associated with hydrogen sulphide in inadequately ventilated or monitored environments.
Alarms Triggered Despite Exceeding Thresholds

The MOM stated that sensors deployed at the site had registered hydrogen sulphide levels that surpassed established safe thresholds. Crucially, an alarm had been activated to signal these dangerous conditions. Despite the alarm, the workers entered the enclosed passage, indicating a potential failure in safety protocols or response mechanisms to prevent exposure to the elevated gas levels.

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How did hydrogen sulphide gas levels become fatal in the tank?

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