Is there contamination in the room items if a thermometer breaks?
Apr 03, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Shuwen
Introduction
If an electronic thermometer fails or a mercury thermometer breaks and the room items are promptly cleaned, there will be no contamination. However, if a mercury thermometer breaks and is not thoroughly cleaned immediately, other items may become contaminated. Mercury is a highly toxic substance, and in a closed, confined space, its concentration can build up to dangerous levels; inhaling mercury vapor may cause poisoning.
Under normal circumstances, if an electronic thermometer breaks or a mercury thermometer is properly cleaned up immediately after breaking, there will be no contamination of items in the room. However, if a mercury thermometer breaks and is not thoroughly cleaned, it may contaminate other objects. The details are as follows:
1. No contamination
A thermometer is a medical device used for measuring body temperature, commonly employed in monitoring febrile illnesses. There are three main types: electronic, infrared, and mercury. Most households keep at least one thermometer on hand for convenient temperature measurement. While thermometers are widely used, they are fragile and can break easily, potentially causing contamination. If an electronic or infrared thermometer breaks, it generally does not cause contamination to items in the room.
2. Contamination possible
If a mercury thermometer breaks, prompt and thorough cleaning along with adequate ventilation by opening windows usually prevents contamination of room contents. However, if the broken thermometer is left unattended in a closed environment, the spilled mercury can vaporize and adhere to walls or other surfaces, leading to contamination of items in the room.
Mercury is a highly toxic substance. In a confined, poorly ventilated space, its vapor concentration can build up to dangerous levels, and inhalation may result in mercury poisoning.
