What should I do if a thermometer breaks and mercury is spilled?

When a thermometer breaks and mercury is spilled, appropriate measures include evacuating personnel, collecting the mercury, ventilating the area by opening windows, cleaning up the mercury, and washing hands.

1. Evacuate Personnel

Immediately evacuate all individuals from the room to a well-ventilated outdoor area. Avoid allowing anyone—especially vulnerable populations such as the elderly, children, and pregnant women—to remain in the room where the thermometer broke. Mercury vaporizes readily at room temperature; inhalation of mercury vapor can damage the nervous system and other organs.

2. Collect Mercury

Use damp cotton swabs or adhesive tape to carefully gather mercury droplets scattered on the floor. Place the collected mercury into a sealable small container, add a small amount of water to suppress vaporization, and clearly label the container “Discarded Mercury.” Hand it over to designated personnel for proper disposal.

3. Ventilate the Area

Once a mercury thermometer breaks, mercury rapidly evaporates and forms spherical droplets that roll across surfaces. Immediately turn off all indoor heating devices and open windows to enhance ventilation.

4. Clean Up Mercury

For rooms contaminated with mercury, iodine mixed with alcohol may be ignited to produce iodine vapor, which reacts with airborne mercury to form non-volatile mercuric iodide, thereby reducing mercury vapor concentration. Alternatively, a 10% bleach solution may be used to clean mercury-contaminated floors, offering some mercury removal efficacy.

5. Wash Hands

Prioritize personal safety: thoroughly wash hands multiple times after handling mercury. Although elemental mercury does not mix with water, frequent handwashing remains beneficial. For health protection, also wash and air-dry any clothing potentially exposed to mercury.

In daily life, always use thermometers according to recommended guidelines. Maintain a light, balanced diet and avoid spicy or irritating foods—such as garlic, spicy hotpot, or wasabi. Ensure adequate rest and avoid excessive fatigue to safeguard overall health.