If a thermometer breaks…
Colds are a common occurrence. When we feel unwell, the first thing we do is rush to take our temperature. And even though the pharmacy market today offers us a choice, many still prefer the good old mercury thermometer to new trends. And everything would be fine, if not for one clumsy move – and mercury beads have already rolled in different directions…
Everyone is probably familiar with the "extraordinary" characteristics of this substance, yet they stubbornly continue to underestimate its danger. By the way, mercury is also found in blood pressure monitors and fluorescent lamps. This silvery-white metal, under normal conditions, is a highly mobile liquid that, when struck, immediately breaks up into small beads and penetrates into cracks in floors, walls, and furniture. Mercury vapor is especially poisonous. Entering the human body through the respiratory tract, it causes poisoning, which, incidentally, can occur without symptoms for a long period. The harmful substance usually affects the central nervous system and kidneys.
The concentration of liquid metal in a thermometer is small, so you can handle such a "mercury mishap" yourself. The main thing is not to panic and act quickly.
First, remove children, the elderly, and pets from the room. Open the windows, but do not create a draft, otherwise you will have to catch mercury beads all over the room. And some of them can break into dust and settle on walls and furniture.
Protect your respiratory organs with a damp gauze bandage. Be sure to wear rubber gloves: the substance should not come into contact with exposed skin. Collect large beads with a brush into a paper envelope, small ones – with a band-aid, tape, or a wet newspaper. Put them in a jar of water and close the lid tightly. Treat the cleaned surface with a solution of potassium permanganate or a soap-and-soda solution. After cleaning, ventilate the room. Take the collected mercury to the nearest collection point; you can find out its location by calling 101.
Such a simple algorithm of actions is within everyone's capabilities, but, as practice shows, no one is immune from mistakes. Therefore, it is important to remember not only how to behave in an emergency, but also what not to do.
DO NOT touch mercury without gloves!
DO NOT use a vacuum cleaner, broom, or rag to collect mercury!
DO NOT treat the spill area with detergents or cleaning agents!
DO NOT dispose of mercury in a garbage chute or sewer!
DO NOT leave shoes that have come into contact with mercury outside the spill zone!
DO NOT wash clothes that have come into contact with mercury in a washing machine!
This is all you need to know in an emergency! Be attentive and careful! Avoid danger – take care of yourself!