Tuesday, August 20, 2013

What to Do If You Break a CFL Bulb


Fluorescent bulbs contain mercury and mercury is toxic. That's why you can't just toss CFLs in the trash or recycling bin. If you ever accidentally break a CFL bulb you'll wanna take extra care to clean up the mess in the safest and most responsible manner.

Click here to read the steps to take to clean up a broken fluorescent bulb as outlined by the EPA.

A few key points from the process:
  • Shut off central air conditioning or any fans.
  • Open windows and air out the room for a few hours.
  • Do not use a vacuum.
  • The EPA suggests using sticky tape to get up bits of glass, but a sticky lint roller would probably be easier to use.
  • Dispose of the collected waste according to your local guidelines for CFL recycling.

Read "I Broke a CFL. Now What?" at Earth911 for more info on CFLs, mercury exposure, and recycling.

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