Fluorescent Lighting Oxidation Dangers

The importance of reducing energy costs has become a growing global issue. Products designed to reduce energy usage are a welcomed addition to the marketplace. Fluorescent light bulbs, known for their energy-efficiency, will soon be the only type of bulb manufactured in the United States, according to the Environmental Protection Agency. And while they may be economical and energy-efficient, there are certain environmental dangers to consider.

Fluorescent Lighting

• Fluorescent lights consist of electricity, argon gas, and mercury, all contained inside a glass tube. The mercury is needed to convert ultraviolet light rays into the visible light produced by the reaction of electricity and gas. In terms of energy efficiency, fluorescent lights last 10 times longer than incandescent light sources, and use less energy in the process. However, the mercury contained inside these bulbs presents an ever-present danger to the environment and may have adverse health effects.

Mercury Effects

• Mercury is classified as a heavy metal that carries strong neurotoxic effects. Mercury poisoning has resulted in cases of infertility, autism, thyroid disorders, Alzheimer's disease and multiple sclerosis according to the U. S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). And while the mercury contained inside fluorescent bulbs poses no threat while inside the bulb, breaking the bulb or improper disposal may adversely affect a person's health. Oxidation effects take place when mercury makes contact with the air.

Health Effects

• Fluorescent lighting oxidation dangers are present when mercury materials are breathed as a vapor and absorbed into the lungs. Warm environments or poorly ventilated areas pose a particular risk in situations where a fluorescent bulb is broken. Possible symptoms from exposure to mercury fumes include insomnia, tremors, headaches, and nervousness. Symptoms of possible mercury poisoning include a feeling of "pins and needles" in the hands and feet, motor-coordination problems and muscle weakness.

EPA Warnings

• Within the United States alone, an estimated 670 million fluorescent light bulbs are discarded each year. The EPA calculates this amount to equal two to four tons of mercury being released into the environment. Once deposited into landfills, mercury oxidation results in its conversion into organic materials. The dangers of improper disposal of mercury materials lie in the potential for soil contamination and a disruption of the natural food chain. Based on current federal regulations, the mercury contained inside most lighting and lamp fixtures is classified as hazardous waste. However, regulations governing the disposal of hazardous waste do not include regulating household waste.

Prevention/Solution

• Though no actual regulations apply to fluorescent light bulbs, the EPA does provide information on how to properly dispose of these bulbs. As a number of components that make up these bulbs can be recycled, taking them to a recycling center is the best way to dispose of them. If no recycling centers are available in a particular area, sealing discarded bulbs in a plastic bag before placing in the trash can help contain potential mercury spills. Precautionary measures to prevent mercury oxidation effects within the home include not using bulbs in a carpeted area in case of breakage, and not touching or inhaling vapors when cleaning up a broken bulb.