What is mercury?

Mercury is a heavy, dense metal that is liquid at room temperature. The freezing point of mercury is actually less than 38 degrees below zero Celsius. The liquid is so dense that a bowling ball will float in it!

Mercury is found in a variety of electrical devices and other equipment, including thermometers and manometers (e.g., medical sphygmomanometers). Some countries, including Sweden and Holland, have banned the use of mercury in medical equipment. However, the devices are still widespread in Canada - mainly due to their superior accuracy and ease of calibration and maintenance.

A number of mercury spills are reported every year to WorkSafeBC. These usually occur when thermometers or manometers are mishandled or broken and the mercury leaks out. If the spill is not cleaned up promptly and properly, the mercury can be spread throughout the work area. If this were to occur in a physician's office, the office could be closed for several days while cleanup and decontamination take place.

What happens if I am exposed to mercury metal?

Liquid mercury can affect human health through skin contact, ingestion, and by breathing the vapour - most worker exposure is through the inhalation of mercury vapour. Chronic (long-term) exposure to high concentrations of mercury vapour affects the central nervous system and cause stupor, tremors, nervousness, and personality changes; eventually, the kidneys become damaged. Gum disease can be an early sign of chronic mercury exposure.

How can I prevent mercury exposure?

The most effective way to prevent the exposure of workers, patients, and physicians to an accidental spill of mercury is to dispose of all mercury-containing medical devices and replace them with mercury-free equipment. Mercury-containing medical devices or material from cleanup of mercury spills must be disposed of according to the provisions of the province's Environmental Management Act and the Hazardous Waste Regulation.

For more information please consult the WorkSAfeBC web site at  http://www.worksafebc.com/