Disposing of CFL Bulbs

What are Compact Fluorescent Lamps (CFL)?

They are small fluorescent lights which fit into standard light sockets. They last longer and use less energy than a standard (incandescent) light bulb.

Do CFLs contain mercury?

Yes, they need mercury to generate light efficiently. The mercury is used to produce ultraviolet light, which is then changed into light we can see by a special coating in the lamp. The coating is inert and poses no health risk.
Nowadays, the typical amount is around 4 milligrams per lamp – just enough to cover the tip of a ball point pen and just enough to last the expected life-time of the lamp.

Does this mercury pose a risk?

The mercury cannot escape from an intact lamp and even if the lamp should be broken, the very small amount of mercury contained in a single, modern CFL is most unlikely to cause any harm.

But it makes sense to avoid unnecessary contact with mercury; and a broken light bulb will also produce sharp pieces of glass. So it's best to deal with breakages sensibly, as described below.

Of course, we should avoid putting mercury into the environment where we can, so dispose of unwanted CFLs correctly, as advised below.

How should I deal with a broken CFL?

In the event of an accidental breakage of a bulb, normal good housekeeping is required.

1. Take care to prevent injury from broken glass.

2. If possible ventilate the room during clean up and before further occupation.

3. Avoid the generation and inhalation of airborne dust.

4. On hard surfaces wipe the area with a damp cloth, place cloth in a plastic bag and seal it.

5. Sticky tape (e.g. duct tape or similar) can be used to pick up small residual pieces or powder from soft furnishings and then place the sticky tape in a sealed plastic bag..

6. The plastic bag doesn't need to be air tight, but should be reasonably sturdy. Place the plastic bag in another similar bag and seal that one as well, this minimizes cuts from broken glass.

For more information: Environmental Protection Agency