Study Shows Need for Safer Packaging of Fluorescent Lamps

Researchers at the University of Minnesota School of Public Health found most containers employed for storage and transportation of used fluorescent lamps to recycling centers do not provide necessary levels of protection against mercury vapors emitted from broken lamps. The release of mercury vapors, which can be inhaled or absorbed through the skin, presents an environmental and occupational hazard for workers involved with handling and transport, suggests the study, published in a recent issue of the Journal of the Air & Waste Management Association. Mercury is a toxic chemical that can lead to neurological damage.

The study aimed to compare and understand which packaging configuration would reduce the amount of mercury vapor released. In 10 replicate experiments, researchers examined five different packages containing 40 broken, used, low-mercury lamps and measured the airborne mercury concentration in a test chamber over a six-hour interval. The configuration that contained mercury vapor below occupational exposure levels was a double-box configuration with a press-seal, plastic-foil laminate bag.

The Environmental Protection Agency encourages recycling of fluorescent lamps and instructs that packaging protect against breakage. The rule, however, does not include specific restrictions against vapor release. In 2005, EPA added a requirement mandating that packaging be designed to prevent mercury from escaping into the environment. While fluorescent lamps are not included in this rule, the new study points directly at the need for more stringent legislation regarding the release of mercury vapor.

“We found that mercury vapor from broken fluorescent bulbs easily penetrates cardboard boxes and plastic bags. Successful packaging needs to prevent cuts and tears from broken glass in addition to containing vapor. This explains why the design that included a vapor-proof bag sandwiched between two cardboard boxes was the most effective package,” said Lisa Brosseau, Ph.D., associate professor of environmental health and safety and co-author of the study.

Energy efficient fluorescent lamps are becoming a popular choice for consumers as energy costs rise. In the U.S. alone, discarded broken fluorescent lamps release an estimated 1 ton of mercury into the air annually, the study says. Tracy Glenz and Richard Hoffbeck from the University of Minnesota School of Public Health, Division of Environmental Health and Safety, also contributed to this research. The study was funded by VaporLok Products LLC, a manufacturer of mercury-containment packaging.

Product Showcase

  • Full Line of Defense Against Combustible Dust Nilfisk

    Nilfisk provides a comprehensive range of industrial vacuums meticulously crafted to adhere to NFPA 652 housekeeping standards, essential for gathering combustible dust in Class I, Group D, and Class II, Groups E, F & G environments or non-classified settings. Our pneumatic vacuums are meticulously engineered to fulfill safety criteria for deployment in hazardous surroundings. Leveraging advanced filtration technology, Nilfisk ensures the secure capture of combustible materials scattered throughout your facility, ranging from fuels, solvents, and metal dust to flour, sugar, and pharmaceutical powders. Read More

  • The MGC Simple Plus

    The MGC Simple Plus is a simple-to-use, portable multi gas detector that runs continuously for three years without being recharged or routinely calibrated after its initial charge and calibration during manufacturing. The detector reliably tests a worksite’s atmosphere for hydrogen sulfide, carbon monoxide, oxygen and combustible gases (LEL). Its durability enables the detector to withstand the harshest treatment and environments, hence earning it an IP 68 rating. The MGC Simple Plus is also compatible with a variety of accessories, such as the GCT External Pump. Visit gascliptech.com for more information. Read More

  • SECUPRO MARTEGO

    FOR HIGHEST DEMANDS. A cutting tool in which function and design go hand in hand. Meet the SECUPRO MARTEGO, our prize-winning squeeze-grip safety knife with fully automatic retractable blade for safety. • Ergonomically friendly trigger mechanism to engage the blade • Durable body made of aluminum • Safer alternative to fixed blade utility knives for general cutting tasks • 9 mm Cutting depth • Easy, tool free blade change Dimensions: L 6.10" L x 0.71" W x 1.91" H Weight: 3.70 oz Cutting Depth: 9 mm Read More

Featured

Artificial Intelligence

Webinars