Fluorescent tubes are used in many homes and businesses because they are more energy-efficient and cost-effective than incandescent bulbs. They last anywhere from 15,000 to 20,000 hours on average.
Since fluorescent tubes contain mercury, they must be properly disposed of or recycled. When mercury is spilled, unlike chemicals that are visible or emit a strong odor, it forms vapors that are transparent, almost undetectable (except for specialized equipment), and totally odorless. Also, small levels of mercury exposure can cause severe health problems.
Whether or not you are a professional you must know how to dispose of fluorescent tubes.
Disposal And Recycling Of Fluorescent Tubes:
The following rubrics are the guidelines for fluorescent tube disposal:
- Breaking fluorescent tubes is not recommended
- Place used fluorescent tubes in their original packaging or another safe container
- Store them away from rain and water so that waterways are not contaminated if they split
- Bring the fluorescent tubes to a household hazardous waste collection or event in the correct packaging
- Accredited waste handlers or a nearby recycling facility should be contacted by businesses
These recommendations refer to low mercury fluorescent tubes, lightweight fluorescents, and low mercury lamps, as well as:
- Floodlights, such as metal halide lamps, are used in vast indoor and outdoor areas, as well as gymnasiums
- Sodium lamps, such as those used as outdoor floodlights and security lighting
- Mercury vapor lamps, such as those used for street lighting on occasion
In the event of an unintentional breakage:
- To ventilate the environment and disperse any poisonous vapor, open windows, and doors. Switch off forced-air heating and cooling systems right away, and don’t turn them back on for at least 4 hours
- Instead, evacuate all people and pets to prevent pollution and damage as mercury adheres to clothes, shoes, arms, legs, and other body parts. This reduces the possibility of hazardous contaminants being transferred to other locations.
To collect and dispose of the glass fragments and trace mercury, use disposable latex gloves and a damp disposable paper towel or cardboard.
To pick up smaller glass fragments and powder, use wide packing tape or duct tape.
- In a sealable bag or glass container, place the disposable latex gloves, damp paper towel, cardboard, wrapping or duct tape, and other contaminated materials. Keep them out of the rain and water so they can be properly disposed of.
- Broken fluorescent tubes can not be cleaned with a regular vacuum cleaner. Just use advanced vacuum cleaning machines designed to treat hazardous waste.
If a large number of lamps break, such as when they are in a case or pallet awaiting disposal, immediately evacuate and ventilate the area, making sure to switch off forced-air heating and cooling systems for at least four hours after the clean-up is done.
For proper clean-up and fluorescent tube disposal, contact the local authorities or certified waste handlers. The damaged fluorescent tubes, along with the ones that are still usable, can be recycled.
- Keep in mind that traditional vacuum cleaners should not be used. There are vacuum cleaning devices that are specifically designed to handle hazardous wastes.
Safely Dispose of Fluorescent Tubes:
When it comes to properly disposing of hazardous waste, being cautious is crucial. When you find a burned-out tube, remove it with caution. To do so, make sure your power source is switched off so you don’t get burned, and slowly uninstall the tube to avoid breaking it.
Find A Recycling Center:
Locate a recycling facility within your jurisdiction. Some states will make recycling mandatory, while others will make hazardous waste disposal mandatory. Simply enter your zip code to find local recycling, hazardous waste, and e-waste solutions that can help you dispose of burned out tubes. And if this does not help then you can consider skip bin hire online near your area with the same zip code method.
Can Be Dropped Off At A Universal Waste Handler:
These tubes are called universal waste and can be dropped off in large or small amounts at a universal waste handler. This is particularly beneficial for facilities or companies that have a large number of tubes to dispose of.
Important Note:
Few states and local authorities, according to the EPA, may have tighter rules for disposing of fluorescent tubes and other hazardous wastes, including mandatory recycling. Your local waste collection agency should be able to provide you with information on the specifics of fluorescent tube disposal laws in your state or municipality.
Conclusion:
Fluorescent tubes are still used in many homes, offices, and businesses, despite the fact that light-emitting diode (LED) lighting is becoming more cost-effective and energy-efficient.
Once they have been used, they can be disposed of or recycled in accordance with local laws and regulations. It’s important to keep an eye on them to make sure they don’t break and to clean up properly if they do.
For the most up-to-date information on procedures, laws, and regulations, contact the nearest approved fluorescent tube recycling facility or local government department. Remember that fluorescent tubes contain radioactive mercury, and we must take precautions to ensure that our health and that of the environment are not jeopardized.
