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| The Element Mercury |
The element mercury, also known as quicksilver and hydrargyrum, was discovered in the year 2000 B.C. and is known by the chemical symbol Hg. Years ago the dangers of mercury were unknown. People found the strange element intriguing and odd. Kids played with it or brought it to school. Its liquid properties at room temperature and the shiny appeal make it a curiosity to be examined. The problem is that mercury is extremely poisonous. A mercury spill will require the assistance of hazardous waste personnel. In larger amounts the fumes from mercury can be breathed in and very dangerous. NEVER mess with mercury.
In fact, RCW codes of Washington (Chapter 70.95M) have some very specific rules regarding mercury. Here are some of them.
¨ Elementary and secondary schools in Washington State are prohibited to purchase bulk elemental mercury or chemical mercury compounds, including mercury thermometers.
¨ Since January 1, 2006, no school in Washington State can store elemental mercury, mercury compounds or mercury thermometers on site.
¨ Schools can have one mercury barometer on site, if it is being used regularly and is calibrated. If it does not meet those criteria, it is considered a bulk mercury storage device and must be eliminated.
¨ No person in Washington State may use a mercury-added novelty device, mercury thermometers or mercury manometers.
Since many fluorescent bulbs and old thermometers contain mercury as do other older novelty items and other devices, none of these should ever be thrown into the garbage. They need to be taken to a hazardous waste facility that will handle and recycle them. DON’T throw any fluorescent bulbs, CFL, T-5, T-8 or T-12 in the garbage. Avoid contaminating yourself and others!
In the event of a mercury spill, know what to do. Prepare for and prevent a mercury spill. Visit the Don’t Mess with Mercury website for educational materials and animated video messages. You may also want to check out the DOH Mercury website. Be safe!
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