How long can people stay in a room after mercury breaks?

Update Date: 2025-03-05 Source: Network

Handling Broken Mercury Thermometers

After a mercury thermometer breaks, it is best to ventilate the room for more than 24 hours before it is safe to occupy. The evaporation rate of mercury is influenced by the environment and the cleanup method, so caution is required.

1. Hazards of Mercury

Mercury, also known as Hg, is a toxic heavy metal. It evaporates into a colorless and odorless gas at room temperature, which can be easily inhaled by humans. Excessive inhalation may lead to poisoning, causing symptoms such as headaches, nausea, and respiratory difficulties. Handling mercury requires extreme caution to ensure thorough cleanup.

2. Steps for Cleanup

When a mercury thermometer breaks, stay calm. Use paper towels or tape to collect visible mercury beads, avoiding direct contact with your hands. Place the collected mercury in a sealed container for proper disposal. If mercury gets into carpets or crevices, it is recommended to consult a professional before using a vacuum cleaner, as regular vacuum cleaners may spread mercury further.

3. Importance of Ventilation

Ventilation is an effective method to accelerate the evaporation of mercury. Open all windows in the room to maintain air circulation. Ventilation should continue for at least 24 hours to significantly reduce the concentration of mercury vapor in the air and minimize harm to humans.

4. Washing and Air-Drying

If mercury contaminates movable items such as bedsheets, carpets, or clothing, take these items outdoors to air-dry and wash them thoroughly. Sunlight and fresh air help accelerate the evaporation and removal of mercury.

5. Long-Term Monitoring

Even after cleanup and ventilation, it is recommended to conduct air quality testing in the room before occupying it. Families with children or pregnant women should ensure that indoor air is safe and harmless. Use a home air quality testing device or hire a professional agency to perform the test.

6. Preventive Measures

To prevent similar incidents from happening again, consider using digital thermometers instead of traditional mercury thermometers. Digital thermometers are not only safe and non-toxic but also provide faster and more convenient readings. By following these steps, you can effectively reduce the impact of mercury on health and ensure the room is safe to occupy. Although dealing with a broken mercury thermometer may be troublesome, these steps are essential for the health of your family. I hope these suggestions provide practical help and a reassuring living environment.