Even a common small thermometer containing about 3 grams of mercury can turn from a measuring device into a real problem.
Even a common small thermometer containing about 3 grams of mercury can turn from a measuring device into a real problem.
The English saying "mad as a hatter" is known thanks to the character of the Mad Hatter from Lewis Carroll's book. And not by chance, in those days hatters used mercury to soften felt. This caused poisoning and provoked disorientation in time and space, as well as the inability to remember current events and madness.
Mercury is classified as an extremely hazardous substance. Its vapours cause severe poisoning, especially in combination with other metals, affecting the nervous system, kidneys, and other internal organs. Prolonged exposure to mercury vapours, which can appear even from small droplets of the metal that have rolled into cracks, is particularly dangerous.
Preparatory Stage:
1) If you break a thermometer, first of all, take everyone out of the room. Open a window for ventilation.
2) If mercury has rolled onto the table or floor, do not try to wipe it with a cloth – this will only spread the substance and increase the evaporation surface.
Getting Down to Action:
Time to Act:
4) Using a brush, collect the largest mercury balls into a paper envelope.
5) Use a rubber bulb to draw in smaller balls, and "stick" the smallest droplets onto adhesive plaster.
6) Place all collected mercury in a jar of water and seal it tightly. Do not use a vacuum cleaner under any circumstances!
7) After that, carry out wet cleaning of the room. For floor treatment, use a solution of potassium permanganate or a soap-soda solution (400 grams of laundry soap and half a kilogram of soda ash or baking soda per 10 litres of water).
Mercury Defeated:
8) After wet cleaning, ventilate the room.
9) The further fate of the collected mercury can be advised by the dispatcher by calling 112.
As we can see, defeating mercury is not that difficult, the main thing is to be prepared for the fight against it. Share this life hack with your friends and always stay safe!