2023-11-06 19:22:21
There are many theories about the damage that some products can cause to our body and even if you don’t believe it, the most dangerous ones could be at home, that’s why we tell you. What to do if a mercury thermometer breaks at home.
If you have heard about how dangerous it can be to touch the mercuriobut you don’t know how to prevent yourself, you better take note of the following information.
Nowadays, many homes use mercury thermometerswhich can accidentally break, but what should we do if this happens?
In some countries it has been revealed that it is necessary to call the fire brigade to prevent this product from affecting health, however, there are others in which instructions are given on how to clean it without causing serious problems.
What happens if a mercury thermometer breaks and you touch it?
When a mercury thermometer breaks, there is a risk that the liquid will evaporate into the environment and could contaminate water and soil.
If you wonder what to do if a mercury thermometer breaks at homeit is important that appropriate measures are taken to avoid health effects.
Photo: iStock
In accordance with United States Environmental Protection Agency, you should not use a vacuum cleaner to clean mercury because it will increase exposure, nor should you use a broom, as it will break up the particles; Do not pour it into the drain, as it can affect the pipes.
The best way to clean it is to open the windows and doors, keep pets and children away, it is recommended to use 4 or 5 ziplock bags, rubber or latex gloves, kitchen papercardboard or squeegee, dropper and flashlight.
It is recommended to package mercury in plastic bags using the gloves with the kitchen paper and label it to inform that it is mercury. Remember to pay attention to the small droplets that you can capture with a dropper.
What happens if I touch mercury with my hands?
Mercury can be toxic to different areas of our body such as the nervous and immune systems, the digestive systemskin, lungs, kidneys and eyes.
You should know that if it is a small amount and in the short term, the chances of organic damage are low, however, intense exposure can cause damage. pulmonary which can evolve to pulmonary edema and pneumonitis.
It is also possible that irritation may occur at the intestinal level with nauseavomiting, diarrhea and abdominal pain.
Photo: iStock
It is advisable to see a specialist doctor if you have these symptoms, to avoid severe damage to the body.
How long does mercury last in the environment?
The liquid of mercurio It is usually very dangerous if it is in the environment, but as the gas decreases little by little if it is in properly ventilated spaces, it is recommended to estimate a time of minutes, up to hours.
What happens if a child touches mercury?
It has been reported that mercury may not be toxic and there may be no symptoms, but if the vapor of the product is inhaled or droplets are absorbed, it can cause problems in the bloodstream and cause symptoms such as cough and difficulty breathing.
now that you know what to do if a mercury thermometer breaks at homeWe invite you to watch the next video:
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