Disposal and Recycling of Mercury
Mercury is a highly toxic substance that can cause serious health and environmental damage if not properly handled. It is commonly found in household items like thermometers, thermostats, light bulbs, batteries, and certain electrical devices. When disposed of improperly, mercury can contaminate water, soil, and the air, leading to harmful effects on wildlife and human health. Here's how you should dispose of mercury-containing items safely:
1. Mercury-Containing Items:
a. Thermometers and Thermostats:
Mercury Thermometers: Older thermometers, especially those used for medical or scientific purposes, often contain mercury. Modern thermometers may be mercury-free, but if you still have one, it should be disposed of properly.
Mercury Thermostats: Some older thermostats may also contain mercury. When replacing old thermostats, ensure the old one is handled properly.
b. Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs (CFLs):
CFLs contain a small amount of mercury vapor inside the glass. Although these bulbs are energy-efficient, they need special care when being disposed of.
c. Batteries:
Button Cell Batteries: Some small button cell batteries, especially older ones, contain mercury and should not be thrown in the trash.
Other Mercury Batteries: Older batteries, including some types of alkaline batteries, may contain mercury.
d. Electrical Devices and Appliances:
Certain electrical devices, like switches or relays, might contain mercury. Common examples include old refrigerators, light dimmers, and industrial equipment.
2. Safe Disposal Methods:
a. Do Not Throw Away in Regular Trash:
Toxic Hazard: Mercury is a highly toxic substance that can contaminate the environment, including groundwater and soil. Never dispose of mercury-containing products in regular household trash, recycling bins, or down the drain.
b. Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) Collection Centers:
Take to HHW Facilities: The best way to dispose of mercury-containing items is by bringing them to a Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) collection center. These facilities are designed to safely dispose of hazardous materials, including mercury.
Check Local Collection Programs: Many communities offer collection events for hazardous materials, including mercury. Contact your local waste management facility or check their website to find a drop-off location.
c. CFL and Light Bulb Disposal:
Special Collection Locations: Many hardware stores and recycling centers accept used CFL bulbs and other mercury-containing light bulbs. Check with your local retailer or recycling center for drop-off programs.
Never Break: Be sure not to break the bulbs. If one does break, follow specific cleaning instructions to avoid exposure to mercury vapor. Ventilate the area, wear gloves, and carefully clean up the fragments.
d. Recycling Mercury-Containing Devices:
Recycling Programs: Certain mercury-containing devices, such as thermostats and thermometers, may be eligible for specialized recycling programs. Look for manufacturer take-back programs or retailers who provide safe recycling options.
3. What to Do if Mercury Spills:
a. If You Spill Mercury (e.g., from a thermometer or light bulb):
Evacuate the Area: If mercury is spilled, especially if it comes from a broken thermometer or light bulb, ventilate the area immediately and leave the room for at least 15 minutes.
Don’t Use a Vacuum: Do not use a vacuum cleaner to pick up mercury. This can cause mercury to spread and vaporize, increasing the risk of exposure.
Collect the Mercury Carefully: Use sticky tape or duct tape to pick up the small mercury beads. Place them in a sealed container and bring it to an HHW facility for proper disposal.
b. Cleaning Instructions for Small Spills:
Use Gloves: Always wear gloves and avoid direct contact with the mercury.
Place Mercury in a Sealed Container: Carefully pick up the mercury beads with sticky tape or a damp cloth and place them into a sealed container.
Do Not Dispose in Trash: Ensure the container is properly sealed and labeled, and dispose of it at an appropriate HHW disposal site.
4. Key Takeaways:
Mercury is toxic, and it must never be thrown in regular trash or poured down drains.
Household hazardous waste (HHW) centers are the best option for disposing of mercury-containing items safely.
CFL light bulbs, thermometers, thermostats, and some batteries contain mercury and need special disposal.
Always clean up mercury spills carefully and avoid direct contact.
5. Recycling Options:
Mercury-Free Alternatives: Consider switching to mercury-free alternatives, such as LED lights or digital thermometers, to minimize the use of mercury-containing products.
Manufacturer Take-Back Programs: Some manufacturers offer recycling programs for items containing mercury, such as thermostats and switches.
