Manure produced from pigs is a valuable nutrient source for crops and an important component of the pork industry’s sustainability story. However, manure has a downside. It produces gases that can be harmful to people and pigs as it breaks down.
The four main gases produced from manure are hydrogen sulfide, methane, ammonia and carbon dioxide.1 In high concentrations, each of these gases may be harmful and even cause death. Safety must be a top priority when manure is being handled from a manure pit or lagoon.
Producers and manure handling contractors should review and update their Emergency Action Plan related to pumping, storage, handling and toxic gas exposure.