Manure Pit Hazards

Methane is dangerous because it is highly combustible. At concentrations of 50,000 ppm or more (a level of 5 percent), methane can explode. Methane gas is produced as animal wastes decompose, and warm temperatures accelerate this process. Another problem is that this colorless, odorless, tasteless gas is difficult to detect. Methane is lighter than air and will accumulate in the top of unvented areas, such as closed pits. The maximum allowable concentration is 1,000 ppm, or 0.1 percent.

Solution: Make sure all pits and manure storage areas are adequately ventilated. Prohibit all open sparks or flames in areas near pits or storage facilities.

(Source: ISU Extension publication #: Pm-1518k )