Mercury thermometers, once common household items, are now considered hazardous if broken due to the toxic nature of mercury. This liquid metal can easily spread across surfaces, posing serious health risks if not cleaned up properly. While many newer thermometers have replaced mercury with safer alternatives, those still using mercury need to know what to do if their thermometer breaks. This article provides detailed steps on how to safely handle a mercury spill and what precautions to take to protect your health.

Identifying Mercury in Your Thermometer

Before cleaning up a mercury spill, it’s important to first determine if your thermometer contains mercury. Older non-digital thermometers often contain this toxic liquid metal, while newer thermometers typically use alcohol or other non-toxic substances.

To identify mercury, follow these simple guidelines:

• Color of Liquid: If the liquid in the thermometer is silver, it is most likely mercury. However, if the liquid is any color other than silver (often red or blue), it is likely alcohol or another non-toxic substance.

• Shape and Behavior: Mercury is a liquid metal that behaves differently from other liquids. When spilled, mercury forms small droplets that combine into larger spheres. These droplets will roll on flat surfaces and break into smaller ones when pressure is applied.

• Calibration Strip: Check for any "mercury-free" label on the thermometer. If you see this, the liquid is not mercury.

If you determine that your thermometer contains mercury, take immediate steps to ensure proper cleanup and disposal to minimize exposure.

What to Do Immediately After a Mercury Thermometer Breaks

If a mercury thermometer breaks, it's crucial to handle the situation with care to prevent exposure to toxic mercury vapors. Here's what you need to do:

1. Evacuate the Area: Have everyone leave the room immediately, including pets. Mercury vapors can be harmful if inhaled, especially in enclosed spaces. Open all windows and doors to ventilate the area and ensure fresh air circulation.

2. Do Not Allow Children to Help: Children should not assist in the cleanup due to their vulnerability to mercury exposure.

3. Prevent Spread of Mercury: Ensure that no one walks through the affected area, especially if their shoes may be contaminated with mercury.

Items Needed to Clean Up a Mercury Spill

To clean up a small mercury spill from a broken thermometer, you will need the following items:

• Zip-lock plastic bags (4 to 5)

• Trash bags (2 to 6 mils thick)

• Rubber, nitrile, or latex gloves

• Paper towels

• Cardboard or squeegee

• Eyedropper

• Duct tape or shaving cream, and small paintbrush

• Flashlight or small task light

• Optional: Powdered sulfur (found in hardware stores or pharmacies)

Note: Powdered sulfur can help absorb small mercury droplets and reduce the risk of inhaling vapors.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Up Mercury

1. Put On Gloves: Always wear rubber, nitrile, or latex gloves to prevent direct contact with mercury.

2. Collect Broken Pieces: If the thermometer is shattered, carefully pick up any broken glass and place it on a paper towel. Fold the paper towel and place it in a zip-lock plastic bag.

3. Gather Visible Mercury Beads: Using a squeegee or a piece of cardboard, gently sweep the mercury droplets into a small cluster. Move slowly to avoid scattering the mercury further.

4. Search for Hidden Mercury: Use a flashlight to check for any additional mercury beads that may be hiding in cracks or under furniture. Hold the flashlight low to the floor in a dark room to identify shiny mercury droplets.

5. Use the Eyedropper: Carefully use an eyedropper to pick up the mercury beads and transfer them to a paper towel. If necessary, use cardboard or a similar object to roll the mercury into a bag.

6. Remove Small Mercury Beads: If small mercury droplets remain, apply shaving cream to a paintbrush and gently dot the area to pick them up. Alternatively, use duct tape to lift remaining glass fragments or small mercury droplets. Slowly peel the tape to avoid spreading the mercury.

7. Optional Step – Use Powdered Sulfur: If available, powdered sulfur can be sprinkled on the area to make the mercury more visible and bind it for easier cleanup. However, take precautions to avoid inhaling the sulfur powder, as it may be moderately toxic.

Disposal of Mercury and Contaminated Items

After collecting the mercury and all debris:

1. Place All Contaminated Materials in a Bag: All items used in the cleanup process, including gloves, tape, paper towels, and any broken glass, should be placed in a sealed plastic bag.

2. Dispose Properly: Take the sealed bag to a disposal facility that handles hazardous waste. Contact your local health department, fire department, or municipal waste authority for instructions on proper disposal according to local regulations.

3. Ventilate the Area: Continue ventilating the room for at least 24 hours after the cleanup to ensure that any remaining mercury vapors dissipate. You may also consider hiring a contractor to test the area for mercury vapors.

Health Risks of Mercury Exposure

Mercury is a toxic substance that can pose significant health risks when inhaled or ingested. Exposure to mercury vapors can lead to respiratory problems, kidney damage, and neurological symptoms. Symptoms of mercury poisoning may include tremors, headaches, muscle weakness, and irritability.

If you experience symptoms of mercury poisoning or feel unwell after a spill, seek medical attention immediately. For further information on health risks associated with mercury exposure, refer to the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) or your healthcare provider.

Conclusion

Dealing with a broken mercury thermometer requires prompt and careful action to avoid contamination and exposure to toxic mercury vapors. By following the steps outlined above, you can safely clean up a mercury spill and minimize the risks to your health. Always ensure proper disposal of mercury-containing materials, and contact your local authorities for guidance if necessary.

Credit

This article is based on guidelines and information from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and other trusted sources regarding the safe cleanup of mercury spills. For more detailed information on mercury handling and disposal, consult official health agencies or visit the EPA's website.