Why is there concern about breakage and improper disposal of fluorescent light bulbs?

Question

Thanks!! =)

Answer 1

Thye usually have a small amount of mercury in them to aid in their starting up and mercury is a toxic heavy metal that persists in the waste stream. In addition the tubes have an inner coating of phosphors to make their tint (cool white, warm white, etc). That phosphor can cause nasty chemical burns or lung problems if you have a broken lamp and either breathe the dust from it or get a cut on the glass.

Answer 2

My country has a hazardous waste disposal facility that takes fluorescent tubes.

Answer 3

the glass tube is under pressure from the gases in them if you break them they explode and send shards of glass everywhere and can blind you. Its a consumer warning label place on the package so the manufacturer is not held liable if you are injured using there product. Same thing as a warning on a coke bottle "Contents under pressure do not open towards your face"

Answer 4

definite fluorescent lighting fixtures furnishings do incorporate mercury and it particularly is undesirable for the ecosystem to easily throw them interior the trash. for this reason many companies are commencing a p.c.. up software. you may drop off your use bulbs at domicile Depot or Walmart and that they are going to recycle them for you for unfastened.

Answer 5

Because they have mercury inside them, and mercury is poisonous. Exposure to mercury can affect your brain, spinal cord, kidneys and liver, causing symptoms such as trembling hands, memory loss, and difficulty moving.

Answer 6

one reason is that they contain mercury.
the levels of mercury are rising worldwide by seeping into the water systems via waste etc.
many species are now severely affected,eg humans,polar bears and fish and birds.it affects their ability to act normally and for humans it is especially harmful to pregnant women.

Answer 7

At one time, the powder that is inside was poisonous. Not so any more.