Will breaking a mercury thermometer cause poisoning?

Breaking a mercury thermometer does not necessarily lead to poisoning, but there is a risk of poisoning, which depends on multiple factors. Mercury is a toxic heavy metal. The amount of mercury contained in a thermometer is relatively small, and the quantity from a single exposure is usually insufficient to cause acute poisoning. If the broken thermometer and mercury are promptly and properly handled—for example, ventilating the area by opening windows and doors, covering the mercury with sulfur powder, carefully collecting it, and then sealing and disposing of it—the risk of poisoning can be significantly reduced. However, improper handling, such as using a vacuum cleaner to clean up the mercury or leaving the mercury exposed in the indoor environment for a prolonged period, may cause the mercury to slowly evaporate into mercury vapor. Long-term inhalation of low doses of mercury vapor can lead to chronic poisoning. Symptoms of mercury poisoning include headache, insomnia, mood swings, memory loss, and in severe cases, damage to the nervous system and kidneys.