Compact fluorescent bulbs provide a good energy efficient light source but what you need to do if one breaks is much different from the standard bulb. I have been asked on more than one occasion on what to do if a compact fluorescent were to break in the home. Here are some key points to remember before you're put in the situation of having to clean up a broken bulb. However, please visit the US EPA website to get the most up to date information on the steps to take for cleaning up a broken CFL (Compact fluorescent lights).
Mercury vapor is the big concern when a CFL breaks so you want to minimize the exposure to the vapor and prevent any that has settled on the ground to be stirred back into the air.
Therefore:
- Before you clean up the broken bulb, air out the room. It is a good idea to prevent anyone from accessing the room so that proper clean up can be done without anyone accidently walking through the breakage.
- If breakage is on a hard surface, don't use a vacuum or a broom. Remember you don't want to stir up the mercury vapors.
- Do not wash any material that comes into contact with a broken CFL in your washing machine.
- Dispose of the broken CFL the same way as you would with a regular bulb. This means taking it to a depot that accepts CFLs for recycling. Check with local government agencies on where they are located.
I recommend that before you buy a CFL you review the US EPA website so that you are more familiar with what to do if a breakage occurs. This way you can plan out where you want to have your CFLs and minimize the potential for breakage. Example, keep away from areas that have a history of broken bulbs caused by pets knocking over lamps or from energetic playing in the house.
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