Mercury Spills

What is Mercury? Mercury is a silvery metal that is a liquid at room temperature. Mercury in its pure form is used in thermometers, thermostats, barometers, blood pressure manometers, silent switches, and many other products. Once released mercury slowly vaporizes.

Inhaling or ingesting mercury over time can cause irreversible damage to the brain, kidneys, or to developing fetuses. Brief exposures can have the same affects, but there is a better chance of a full recovery. Common symptoms of mercury poisoning include shakiness, memory loss and signs of kidney disease.

For detailed information on Mercury spill clean up visit the EPA website.

For information on broken compact fluorescent lamp clean up click here.

What to do if a small mercury spill occurs

• Isolate the spill immediately.
• Close off all heating, air conditioning, and ventilation ducts.
• Do not allow the mercury to come in contact with skin and clothing.
• Do not wash the mercury down the drain.
• Do not allow mercury to come in contact with products containing ammonia or chlorine (such as Windex, Formula 409, bleach or other cleaning products) as they may cause a violent reaction.
• Do not vacuum up the spill. This will spread it.
• Using a plastic scraper place the broken item and mercury in a sealed plastic bag or container.

Waste mercury and mercury-contaminated materials are hazardous wastes. Please dispose of these wastes through the City of Lawrence/Douglas County Household Hazardous Waste Program.

If a larger mercury spill has occurred contact the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) office here in Lawrence at 785-842-4600.