How to Clean up Broken Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs

Step-by-Step Guide

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   Step 1: Do not vacuum up broken glass!

   This will vaporize and distribute all the mercury that was in the light bulb creating a much bigger problem.
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   Step 2: Ventilate the room before you start cleanup.Make sure that the room is isolated (doors closed

   Open all windows and leave the room, do not track through breakage area.
   
   Let it air out for at least 15 minutes or longer. ,, NEVER use a broom or vacuum to sweep as this can disperse the particles or make them airborne.Place in a large resealable freezer bag. , Place in freezer bag. , Place used paper towels in freezer bag , Seal up the bag and bring it to a recycling or hazardous waist disposal facility. ,, Even unbroken CFLs need to be disposed of properly.
   
   The following steps outline how this should be done. , This is a sure way to contaminate the environment and in many areas it is against the law. ,, For a disposal center near you in the USA, check the US EPA web site on Mercury-Containing Light Bulb Recycling.
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   Step 3: heating/AC system turned off) from the rest of the structure.

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   Step 4: Use rubber or latex gloves while cleaning up.

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   Step 5: Use stiff paper or sticky tape to collect the larger pieces.

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   Step 6: Use the sticky side of duct tape to clean up all the small pieces.

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   Step 7: Wipe the area down with a damp paper towel.

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   Step 8: Remove rubber gloves and place in freezer bag.

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   Step 9: Wash your hands and arms thoroughly.

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    Step 10: Dispose of burned out CFLs properly.

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    Step 11: Never throw burned out CFLs in ordinary waste.

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    Step 12: Collect burned out CFLs and take them to a recycling facility or hazardous waste disposal facility.

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    Step 13: Find a disposal place.

Detailed Guide

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