Compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) are in because they’re green but should be taken out immediately when broken because they have quicksilver.
Mercury is the element that enables CFLs to emit white light. Just like the tube lights of old, they have about five milligrams of quicksilver. This is minute compared to what’s in thermostat switches that have as much as 3,000 milligrams of mercury, which is like having 600 CFLs in one place. Unlike the case for thermostat switches, thermometers and some automotive parts in which mercury use is being phased out, this cannot be done as yet for CFLs because no better technology is in place.
But why must we be careful about broken CFLs? When the bulb is broken, the mercury is released as a vapor and as a fine powder. This poses a health risk to both humans and animals because mercury is also highly toxic. It has been linked to brain damage in both fetuses and children. In one documented case, it was learned that severe rashes and weight loss of a 23-month-old baby resulted from its exposure to mercury from a series of 2.4-meter tube lights that broke in the play area. Exposure to mercury is harmful to adults as well, leading to a range of diseases from Alzheimer’s to depression.
Authorities have outlined the steps to take when a light bulb breaks. First of all, it is important for people and pets to leave the area right away. You must also immediately ventilate the area by opening doors and windows, and prevent circulation of the fumes by turning off the heater.
Wait about 15 minutes before you start cleaning up the area. To do that, make sure to wear gloves because contact with the heavy metal is harmful. Do not use the vacuum cleaner or a broom to clean up. Instead, use cardboard or stiff paper to pick up the larger fragments. For the smaller fragments, it is best to use duct tape. When this is done, use wet cloth or paper towel to wipe out any trace of the broken bulb.
Care must also be taken with disposal. Use a sealable plastic bag for the broken bulb and then take it out of the house right away as plastics cannot keep mercury fumes in. For best results, use a glass jar with a metal lid. Although authorities say the health risk is low when fluorescents end up in landfills, it is illegal in many areas to dispose light bulbs with your everyday trash. Your options include municipal waste facilities and some vendors that accept CFLs as part of their recycling program. IKEA takes these in its stores at no cost. You may also check out the EPA website or Earth 911 to find a collection site near you.
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Article Source: ArticlesBase.com – Mercury in Fluorescent Light Bulbs May Harm Health
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