When the thermometer is broken, it is true that measures need to be taken to prevent the hazards of debris and mercury vapor to the human body. Usually, if the thermometer is broken, mercury is released in the form of vapor, which is harmful to human health, especially to the nervous system.
Ventilating for 15 minutes can help reduce the concentration of mercury vapor in the room, but whether it is sufficient depends on a number of factors, including the size of the room, the ventilation, the degree to which the mercury thermometer is broken, and the amount of mercury released. In general, mercury vapor may accumulate for a longer period of time in smaller rooms or poorly ventilated environments.
To dispose of a broken thermometer more safely, the following steps can be taken:
1. After finding that the thermometer is broken, open the window immediately to increase air circulation. Try to avoid direct contact with mercury debris and vapors, and keep family or co-workers away from the room.
2. If possible, it is best to have a professional environmental cleaner to clean up mercury debris and residual mercury vapor. Until a professional arrives, keep the room ventilated and use an air purifier if possible.
3. Mercury fragments can be collected using scotch tape or cards coated with petroleum jelly. Avoid vacuuming to remove mercury debris, as this may spread mercury particles over a wider area.
4. If the amount of mercury in the thermometer is large, or you are not confident enough about the handling of mercury, it is best to contact the local health department or professional cleaning service to assist in the treatment. In any case, make sure to follow local environmental protection and health and safety regulations.
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