What should I do if the thermometer is broken? A complete guide to properly handling a mercury leak
Recently, the topic of home safety has triggered widespread discussion on social media, among which "how to deal with a broken thermometer" has become one of the hot topics. Although mercury thermometers are gradually being replaced by electronic thermometers, they are still used by many families. Once broken, it may cause harm to health and the environment if not handled properly. The following is the structured data and detailed processing steps:
| Common error handling methods | correct alternative |
|---|---|
| Clean with a broom or vacuum cleaner | Will lead to accelerated diffusion and volatilization of mercury |
| touch directly with hand | Skin contact may cause poisoning |
| Pour into sewer | Contaminates water sources and is difficult to recycle |
1. Emergency steps
1.evacuation: Get children, pregnant women and pets away from the scene immediately. Mercury vapor is more harmful to sensitive people.
2.Open windows for ventilation: Reduce the concentration of mercury vapor in the air, but avoid using fans to accelerate diffusion.
3.Protective preparation: Wear rubber gloves and a mask, and prepare cardboard, tape, flashlight and other tools.
| List of items needed | Instructions for use |
|---|---|
| Cardboard/Credit Card | aggregated mercury beads |
| tape | Adherence to fine particles |
| glass bottle | Sealed storage (need to cover with water) |
2. Detailed cleaning process
1.Visible mercury bead treatment: Use cardboard to slowly push the mercury beads to gather. Reflective beads can be found by shining a flashlight from the side.
2.Small residue treatment: Use tape to remove particles from carpets or gaps. It is recommended to cut off the heavily contaminated fabric parts.
3.safe storage: Put all contaminants into sealed containers and label them with the words "Waste containing mercury".
| Follow-up notes | time period |
|---|---|
| Continuous ventilation | at least 24 hours |
| Watch your body react | Within 72 hours |
| Professional recycling point processing | Completed within 3 days |
3. Special scene processing
1.Clothing stained: Take off contaminated clothing immediately, seal in a plastic bag, do not machine wash.
2.Floor gaps: It is recommended to sprinkle sulfur powder to react to generate mercury sulfide (the color turns red), and then clean it carefully.
3.Electronic Thermometer Alternative Suggestions: The data shows that the error of the electronic thermometer is only ±0.1°C, and there is no risk of contamination.
Important reminder: According to data from the environmental protection department, mercury from one standard thermometer can pollute about 30 tons of water. Correct disposal is not only related to home safety, but also an important responsibility for environmental protection. If you have symptoms of suspected poisoning such as headache or cough, you should seek medical treatment immediately and explain your history of mercury exposure.
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