Household Disposal of Mercury-Containing Items, Including Thermometers

Mercury is a naturally occurring element with unique chemical and physical properties that is a dangerous and often unrecognized hazard commonly found at work, home and schools. The ability of mercury to accumulate in the environment makes it particularly hazardous to humans and animals.

The proper disposal of mercury and mercury-containing items, such as thermometers, older thermostats and switches is important to reduce these hazards. For homeowners, there are several readily available options for proper disposal:

• The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (PaDEP) has a collection program that is free to homeowners. Individuals can contact Jerry McKernan in the Williamsport office at (570) 327-33722 or gmckernan@state.pa.usto make arrangements directly with him.
  
  
• Other DEP regional offices also provide this service. Refer to http://www.depweb.state.pa.us/dep/cwp/view.asp?a=3&q=461282 for contact information in each of the regional offices.
  
  
• Periodically, local organizations provide mercury thermometer disposal and/or exchange programs. Watch your local news media for information on these programs.

To dispose of thermometers and other mercury-containing items used at Penn State, please fill out the chemical pick-up request on the Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) web page at www.ehs.psu.edu. With questions, call (814) 865-6391.

9/26/03