![]() Make sure all pets are removed from the area. Have everyone else leave the area don't let anyone walk through the mercury on their way out.If your spill is greater than the amount in a thermometer, then visit our What to Do if You Spill More Mercury than the Amount in a Thermometer page. NOTE: These instructions also apply to spills from other sources if the amount spilled is less than or similar to the amount in a thermometer (see specific information about how to clean up broken fluorescent bulbs). Prepping for Clean Up of a Broken Mercury Thermometer Contaminated clothing can also spread mercury around. Never walk around if your shoes might be contaminated with mercury.If discharged, it can cause pollution of the septic tank or sewage treatment plant. It may lodge in the plumbing and cause future problems during plumbing repairs. It will break the mercury into smaller droplets and spread them. Never use a broom to clean up mercury.The vacuum will put mercury into the air and increase exposure. Never use a vacuum cleaner to clean up mercury.If you do NOT see the words “mercury free," then assume that the liquid is mercury.ĮPA recommends that consumers use mercury-free thermometers, but not does not endorse, recommend, certify, authorize or approve of any specific brand of mercury-free thermometer.Ĭleaning Up Mercury Spills What NEVER to Do After a Mercury Spill If there is a paper calibration strip inside of the thermometer that includes the words “mercury free,” then the liquid in the thermometer is not mercury. Care must be taken to avoid scattering the mercury or allowing it to roll to a hard-to-reach location. Mercury is a liquid metal with properties different from most substances. Small droplets will combine into a larger sphere shape, which will roll on a flat surface and break back into smaller droplets if dropped or if pressure is applied. Is it silver? Then it may be mercury or possibly a non-mercury substance. ![]() Is the liquid in the thermometer any color other than silver? Then it is most likely alcohol. ![]()
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