CFL Safety Concerns Minimal

Switching from traditional light bulbs to compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs) is an effective, accessible change every American can make to reduce energy use at home—lighting accounts for close to 20% of the average home’s electric bill. While consumers are steering towards CFLs to save energy some concerns about the mercury linger. CFLs contain a very small amount of mercury sealed within the glass tubing—an average of 5 milligrams. By comparison, older thermometers contain about 100 times that amount. When in use bulbs do not release mercury nor do they pose any danger to you or your family when used properly. Always use the base of the bulb to screw/unscrew it —never replace a bulb by twisting on the tubes as this may cause the bulb to break.
 
Research indicates that if a CFL does break the small amount of mercury has no immediate health risk to you or your family through proper clean up and disposal.Minimize any risks by following these clean up and disposal guidelines:
Sweep up—don’t vacuum—to collect glass fragments and fine particles.

Place broken pieces in a plastic bag and wipe area with a damp paper towel to pick up any stray shards. Put the used towel in the plastic bag as well.

Sticky tape such as masking tape or duct tape can be used to pick small pieces and powder. Also place the tape in the bag.

Seal the bag tightly inside a second bag. Label the bag as “BROKEN CFL”.

If weather permits, open windows to allow the room to ventilate.

Wash your hands.

Set the bag out of reach of children until you can dispose of it properly.