Can breaking a thermometer cause mercury poisoning?
Nov 22, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Shuwen
Introduction
After breaking a thermometer, if the spilled mercury volatilizes and is absorbed in large amounts by the body within a short period, it may cause mercury poisoning; however, the likelihood of this occurring is generally small. Although the incident might lead to severely elevated mercury concentrations in the air, promptly collecting the scattered mercury into a sealed container and ventilating the area by opening windows usually prevents mercury poisoning.
Breaking a thermometer may or may not lead to mercury poisoning.
1. Yes
Breaking a thermometer usually refers to breaking a mercury thermometer. Since mercury thermometers contain a certain amount of elemental mercury, breaking one can release mercury into the air. Mercury is volatile and mildly toxic. If a large amount is inhaled shortly after breakage, it may cause mercury poisoning, although the likelihood of this occurring is generally low.
2. No
Mercury thermometers used in daily life contain relatively small amounts of mercury. After breakage, although the mercury released into the air may significantly exceed safe concentration levels, promptly collecting the spilled mercury into a sealed container and ventilating the area by opening windows usually prevents mercury poisoning.
After breaking a mercury thermometer, care should be taken to prevent children from accidentally ingesting the mercury, which could corrode the respiratory tract, digestive tract, and gastrointestinal mucosa, leading to abnormal symptoms such as abdominal pain, burning throat pain, and hematemesis (vomiting blood).
