As fluorescent lamps contain toxic mercury, there are certain rules when it comes to the proper disposal method. Fortunately, even with this legislation there are still simple ways to get rid of fluorescent lamps safely and legally. These include recycling them, taking them to a toxic materials warehouse or even sending them back to the manufacturer.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Taking and Storing Lamps
Step 1. Turn off the power supplying the luminaire and remove the lamp
Turn it clockwise to loosen it and pull one end out of the frame to remove it. Pull the other end in the same way to complete the process.
Use a ladder when taking out the lamp to lessen the risk of dropping it
Step 2. Store the lamp in a container or protective box until you can recycle it
If you made the purchase, just put it back in the box it came in. If you don't have it, wrap it in bubble wrap or newsprint and place it carefully in a sturdy box.
You may not be able to dispose of it right away, so try to store it in a safe, dry place where it won't be moved or shaken too much (such as a little-used pantry)
Step 3. Avoid breaking the lamp or throwing it in the trash to prevent mercury leakage
This substance contained in it is toxic, so take extra care to ensure there is no leakage. In some places around the world, it is even illegal to dispose of fluorescent lamps in the trash, and it is crucial to follow the proper steps in their recycling so as not to break the law or harm the health of the population.
Warning:
store the lamp away from the weather. If it breaks in the box and is exposed to rain, the water can cause the mercury to be washed away.
Method 2 of 3: Recycling Fluorescent Lamps
Step 1. Take residential light bulbs to a toxic materials warehouse
This is the easiest option if you only have a few of any to get rid of. However, in some locations this type of establishment only works once or twice a year, so it is important to contact the local government in advance to confirm the possibility of taking them when planned.
Some local governments also carry out public collections, with officials who come to your house to collect all toxic material. Contact the city to find out if this is a viable option
Warning:
be extra careful when transporting fluorescent light bulbs in your car as they can eventually break due to shaking and movement.
Step 2. If you have several light bulbs to dispose of, ask a retail company to collect them
If you have a medium or large business with dozens of fluorescent lamps to dispose of, this is the easiest and safest way to recycle them. Look on the city's website or contact the Department of Energy to find local dealers who can be contacted for collection.
- Please note that some companies may require a minimum amount for disposal, such as 5 or 10 kilograms.
- The city may be willing to collect from your business for a small fee.
Step 3. Contact your supplier and ask if you could return the used lamps
Many suppliers and recycling institutes will receive fluorescent lamps if you are willing to pay the shipping costs. If you are returning them to the original supplier, you may even be able to order a specific box for disposal.
- Shipping cost will vary by area and supplier.
- For safety, wrap lamps in bubble wrap or other protective material before shipping.
Step 4. Take them to stores that sell them, if they offer the recycling option
Some stores that sell fluorescent lamps will also offer to take them out of your hands and carry out their recycling, just taking them to the establishment. Search online for locations in your area that offer this in-store collection.
- Remember to get in touch before even taking the lamps. As it is potentially dangerous to transport them, it is important to ensure that they will be able to accept them the moment you arrive.
- Please note that some stores only recycle certain models of light bulbs (such as CFLs or 1.2 meter ones).
Method 3 of 3: Handling Broken Light Bulbs
Step 1. Clean the space immediately and aerate it for 15 minutes
If possible, open windows to facilitate the process. Close the door and prevent people and animals from entering the room until 15 minutes have passed.
Turn off the air conditioning system, if possible, to prevent mercury toxicity from spreading through the building
Step 2. Clean larger pieces with a stiff piece of cardboard
This allows you to contain the mercury contamination in that piece of cardboard, which can then be thrown away at the end of this process. For maximum safety, wear a mask and gloves while collecting the pieces.
Warning:
do not use a broom or cleaning supplies that you want to keep clean. Mercury will likely contaminate anything used in the process, so you'll need to dispose of those items as well.
Step 3. Take any remaining powder and place everything in a sealed container
Use a vacuum cleaner or pieces of duct tape to collect all dust and glass particles from the floor. Next, put all broken pieces and contents of the vacuum cleaner bag into a sealed container to prevent mercury from leaking.
- It can consist of a glass jar with a metal lid, a plastic food bowl, or even a resealable plastic bag.
- Note that you will only use the vacuum cleaner if there is dust or broken glass that could not be collected with the piece of cardboard. Using it can consequently spread the contaminated dust around the room, so do this only if you don't have duct tape available.
Step 4. Take all garbage to a toxic materials dump
Please contact in advance to confirm that you can take the lamps to the location in question. If you can't dispose of it right away, ask one of the employees how you should store the broken light bulb until you can take it to storage.