Mercury is a naturally occurring element that has often been used in laboratories, instruments, industrial and commercial equipment, and household items. Mercury can be released into the atmosphere by power plants through the combustion of coal. Mercury is toxic in all chemical forms. Once mercury is released into the environment, it can be transformed into methyl mercury, which allows it to bioaccumulate in the body.
Health Issues
Mercury is a neurotoxin that can cause many other related health problems, as a result of entry into the body by means of inhalation, ingestion, or absorption. As neurotoxin, it affects the central nervous system, especially children, which can lead to a life time of learning disabilities. Some individuals have been found to be more sensitive to mercury than others. Exposure to high levels of metallic (elemental), inorganic, and organic mercury can permanently damage the brain, kidneys, and developing fetus.
Regulations
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) has identified mercury as one of their waste minimization priority chemicals due to the toxic effects on humans and the environment. The reduction in mercury usage is an international, national, and state initiative. Other benefits of this priority are the reduction in costs associated with the cleanup and disposal of mercury contaminated materials.
Ohio has passed legislation that bans the use of mercury measuring devices in K through 12 school classrooms effective April, 2007. The law also bans the sale of mercury thermometers and novelty items beginning in October, 2007. After April, 2008, mercury containing thermostats will not be available for sale or installation. Presently, the Ohio EPA is responsible for enforcing these regulations.
University’s Mercury Recycling Program
The Ohio State University supports the effort to reduce or eliminate mercury and has taken a pro- active stance by means of a mercury recycling program. The Office of Environmental Health and Safety has established a no cost one for one exchange of mercury thermometers for non-mercury thermometers. These mercury free thermometers meet accuracy standards established by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). Forms are available that indicate the number of thermometers for pickup and the selected replacement thermometers. The replacement thermometers are purchased by the Recycling Program and delivered by the Hazardous Waste staff. Once the mercury free thermometers are delivered, the mercury containing ones are packed and shipped for recycling. As of 2008, over 7,000 mercury thermometers have been exchanged.