Fluorescent Tube Disposal

Fluorescent Tube Disposal

Fluorescent tubes are a commonly used lighting source thanks to their efficiency and easy installation, however, whilst being freely used across the UK, many people don’t know how and why to correctly dispose of fluorescent lighting, and these harmful products are ending up in landfill, causing damage to our environment.

Any variety of fluorescent lighting contains mercury, a highly toxic metal. If incorrectly disposed of, mercury can dissipate into the atmosphere which allows it to contaminate water supplies and wildlife. Once this has happened, humans are susceptible to mercury poisoning. This contamination mostly occurs when mercury is incinerated, which is a common way of dealing with waste that ends up in landfills.

A fluorescent tube needs replacing when it starts flickering, only lights at one end or won’t light at all. When replacing the fluorescent tubes, be careful not to break.

If your fluorescent lighting is damaged, you need to minimise the number of people exposed to it immediately. We’d advise turning off any central heating or air conditioning to prevent any toxins being transferred from room to room and improve ventilation by opening windows. Should any fragments break from the fluorescent tubes, use disposable wet wipes to transfer the materials into an airtight container. Do not vacuum unless all attempts to clean up the fragments have failed, as this can spread the mercury powders or vapours when you next use your vacuum.

Contact the Experts for a Free Waste Audit

If you’re not sure how to dispose of a fluorescent tubes, the Mick George Group are highly experienced in managing WEEE waste. We guarantee that your old and broken fluorescent tubes will be safely disposed of in accordance with regulations and minimal environmental impact.

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