When a light source containing mercury shatters...

The present luminophores, covering inner sides of thin-walled light pipes in luminescent lamps, may contain mercury in the maximum quantity of 5 mg. Significant reductions of mercury contents, as well as other hazardous substances applied in generally accessible home appliances, is due to the growing concerns of EU member states about protecting the natural environment and increasing ecological awareness among consumers. Such an approach of the Community is justified in the case of appliances whose sale figures are significant and which have a decisive influence on the natural environment. An indisputable example is light sources, i.e. linear and compact fluorescent lamps, high-pressure discharge lamps, etc.

Even low mercury contents in these lamps are highly toxic and exceptionally hazardous. This substance may damage the nervous system, liver and kidneys. It is especially dangerous to pregnant women, children and pets. Mercury vapour is also hazardous. This is why you have to do the following when your fluorescent lamp shatters:

- open all windows in the room immediately;

- leave the room for at least 10 mins, closing its doors;

- if the luminaire of fluorescent lamp is damaged, the lamp power supply has to be cut off to avoid an electric shock;

- remove the broken fluorescent lamp carefully using appropriate tools (e.g. rubber gloves);

- clean the contaminated place (e.g. using a wet disposable towel);

- all collected elements of the fluorescent lamp, including gloves and towel, have to be put into an adequate container (e.g. a tight plastic bag);

- the container has to be delivered to a disposal point for used light sources containing mercury (*the address and contact number of the company providing information on disposal points for mercury-containing appliances in your city are given below);

- avoid inhaling vapour when removing the shattered fluorescent lamp.

Warning!

Used fluorescent lamps and other home appliances always have to be disposed of at dedicated points intended for the purpose. Persons in breach of this guideline are liable to punishment under Sections 73 and 74 of the Act of 29th July 2005 (Polish Journal of Laws of 2005, 180.1495).

*EKO HARPOON Cząstków Mazowiecki 128 05-152 Czosnów (22) 498 90 01/02, fax (22) 785