Mercury

Elemental mercury, a silver colored metal is used in many household products. It is known to be toxic to humans, but when safely encased it is not a health threat.  When mishandled, however, broken mercury containing products can become a source for exposure that could pose personal risk.  In order to protect health and the environment, safe and proper storage of mercury is vital. Mercury-containing products have no alternative disposal options and must be saved for a household chemical waste collection event.  Please store your mercury item in a sealed container until a collection event occurs.

All mercury spills, regardless of quantity, should be treated seriously.  If you break a mercury-containing product or find a mercury spill in your home, contact the Illinois Department of Public Health at (888) 522-1282 for help.  Mercury spill kits are available from Lab Safety Supply (800-356-0783).

A vacuum cleaner should NEVER be used to clean up a mercury spill. Vacuuming will spread the mercury vapors and tiny droplets will settle throughout the area, increasing the spread of contamination and the chance of exposure.  Small amounts of mercury can be collected with adhesive tape or an eye-dropper, and stored in a sealed container until disposal at a SWALCO collection.

You can find out more about mercury at http://www.epa.state.il.us/land/hazardous-waste/household-haz-waste/mercury-fact-sheet.html.