This document is available in English and is intended to provide basic information related to the storage and clean up of common Mercury containing products to environmental health specialists, public health professionals, and the general public. Examples of product types that may contain mercury are found in the product list. When a mercury-containing product breaks and the mercury is spilled, the exposed mercury can evaporate and become an invisible, odorless toxic vapor. Some of these products such as mercury-containing thermometers can break easily and spill mercury. To prevent mercury releases, these products should be used and stored safely, and managed properly at the end of their useful lives. Most states and localities have household hazardous waste collection and exchange programs for mercury-containing devices. Many other products, however, such as mercury switches in appliances, are unlikely to break until the products are disposed of, and therefore present little spillage hazard in people's homes. The product list includes recommended tips for safe end-of-life management to prevent mercury releases. The list also includes information on older products, such as certain latex interior and exterior paints, which used to contain mercury, but now do not.
