How harmful is it if a thermometer breaks?
Jan 21, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, if a mercury thermometer breaks, it may pose hazards such as environmental pollution, allergic risks, accidental injuries during cleanup, absorption through broken skin, and the risk of mercury poisoning. It is recommended to store mercury thermometers separately in daily use, avoiding collisions with other hard objects. They can be wrapped in a soft cloth or placed in a specialized protective case to reduce the likelihood of breakage.
Generally, if a thermometer breaks, there may be environmental pollution hazards, allergic risks, accidental injuries during the cleaning process, injuries from absorption through broken skin, and the risk of mercury poisoning. If any discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly and receive appropriate treatment under a doctor's guidance. A detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Environmental pollution hazard: Mercury is a heavy metal that poses significant harm to the environment. When a thermometer breaks and mercury leaks into the environment, it can contaminate indoor air, soil, and water sources. Once mercury enters the soil, it can be absorbed by plants and subsequently transferred through the food chain.
2. Allergic risk: Direct contact of mercury with the skin may cause allergic reactions. Skin may develop red patches and possibly papules—small bumps that feel rough to the touch.
3. Accidental injuries during cleanup: While cleaning up broken thermometer glass fragments, one can easily get cut. The glass fragments may be very tiny and difficult to see with the naked eye. If the glass carries bacteria into a wound, it may lead to wound infection.
4. Injury from absorption through broken skin: If the skin is broken at the time of the thermometer breaking, mercury can enter the body through the wound. Compared to intact skin, broken skin absorbs mercury more quickly and in larger amounts, thereby accelerating the process of mercury poisoning.
5. Risk of mercury poisoning: If a thermometer breaks in an enclosed small space, high concentrations of mercury vapor may be inhaled in a short time, potentially causing acute mercury poisoning. The individual may rapidly develop severe respiratory symptoms such as intense coughing, difficulty breathing, and chest pain.
It is recommended to store mercury thermometers separately in daily use to avoid collision with other hard objects. They can be wrapped in a soft cloth or placed in a specialized protective cover to reduce the likelihood of breakage.
