What if you break a mercury thermometer: Housekeeping tips

If you still use old-style mercury thermometers in your house, then there's always a chance that you can accidentally break them.

Mercury can be quite dangerous, so you should be very careful when removing it.

Here are a few tips on how to do it.

Ventilation

Open windows and doors to allow fresh air to flow through the room. Ventilation helps disperse any mercury vapor.

Protect Yourself

Put on disposable gloves before handling any spilled mercury or contaminated items. This prevents direct skin contact.

Minimize Spreading

Avoid walking through the spilled mercury to prevent it from spreading to other areas of the room.

Collect the Mercury

Carefully use a piece of cardboard or stiff paper to push the mercury beads together into one place. You can then fold the cardboard to trap the mercury.

Tape for Tiny Beads

For very small droplets or beads, press duct tape or masking tape onto the affected area to pick up the mercury. 

Fold the tape to encase the mercury, then place the used tape into a Ziplock bag or glass container.

Clean the Area

Use a damp paper towel to carefully wipe the affected area. Avoid using a vacuum cleaner, as it can disperse mercury vapor.

Double Bag Contaminated Items

Seal any disposable towels or wipes used for cleanup in a separate plastic bag.

Wash Hands and Clothes

Thoroughly wash your hands with soap and water after the cleanup. Wash any clothing that came into contact with the mercury separately.

Proper Disposal

Contact your local hazardous waste disposal facility or environmental agency to find out how to safely dispose of the collected mercury and contaminated items. 

Do not throw them in the regular trash.

Conclusion

By following these steps, you can safely clean up a broken mercury thermometer. 

Be extremely cautious and seek professional guidance if you have any doubts about handling the cleanup.
 

• Related news:
• mercury
• thermometer
• danger
• safety
• cleaning
• 27 October 2023

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