Some Answers To Common Fluorescent Light Bulb Questions
Fluorescent light bulbs are becoming increasingly popular because they are more energy efficient than standard bulbs. Fluorescent light bulbs also lost longer. However, because these bulbs contain mercury, they must be handled properly and recycled after they burn out. The following article will address some common questions concerning fluorescent light bulb recycling methods and regulations.
Current federal law mandates that mercury containing light bulbs be treated and handled as hazardous materials in commercial and industrial entities. Because these bulbs are hazardous materials, commercial and industrial entities must follow strict guidelines concerning their disposal. There is no federal law concerning household use of these bulbs.
Some states, such as California and Massachusetts, do have guidelines concerning the disposal of mercury containing fluorescent bulbs in private residences. These guidelines vary from state to state and from county to county. In order to find out the fluorescent light bulb recycling guidelines for a specific state simply contact the state’s environmental regulatory agency.
Many people are unsure of what they should do if a mercury containing light bulb should break. First and foremost it is important to air out the room for a while. On a hard surface clean up the glass manually, and then with sticky tape (never with a broom or vacuum cleaner, as this spreads the mercury), then wipe the area down with damp towels. Dispose of everything in a sealed plastic bag. For carpet or linen, follow the same steps, but replace the wet-wipe with a vacuum cleaner, and dispose of the vacuum bag in a sealed plastic container.
There is no need to be overly concerned about using fluorescent light bulbs as long as certain guidelines are followed. Fluorescent light bulb recycling is very important, and it is imperative that the proper precautions are taken when handling he disposal of these bulbs, broken or intact.
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