Mercury, a heavy metal, exists as a silvery liquid at room temperature. Its fluid nature can make it seem harmless, but direct contact is not advisable due to its inherent toxicity.
The Dangers of Touching Mercury
Direct skin contact with elemental mercury might not immediately cause irritation. While it can be absorbed through the skin, this is a limited route of systemic exposure compared to inhalation.
A significant danger arises from its tendency to readily vaporize at room temperature. This mercury vapor is invisible, odorless, and highly toxic. Inhaling these vapors is the primary route of exposure when mercury is spilled, posing immediate health risks. Even small amounts can create a hazardous environment, particularly in enclosed spaces with poor ventilation.
How Mercury Affects the Body
Once mercury enters the body, its effects vary depending on its chemical form.
Elemental Mercury
Elemental mercury, absorbed through vapor inhalation, travels rapidly through the bloodstream and can cross the blood-brain barrier. This form targets the central nervous system and kidneys, causing neurological symptoms like tremors, emotional changes, and memory problems. Prolonged or high-level exposure can lead to severe neurological and psychiatric effects, alongside kidney dysfunction.
Inorganic Mercury
Inorganic mercury compounds, often encountered as salts, are absorbed through ingestion or skin contact. These compounds accumulate in the kidneys, leading to kidney damage, and can also affect the gastrointestinal tract and nervous system. Symptoms include skin rashes, mood swings, and digestive issues.
Organic Mercury (Methylmercury)
Organic mercury, such as methylmercury, is absorbed through the digestive tract, primarily from consuming contaminated fish and shellfish. This form readily crosses the blood-brain barrier and the placenta, making developing fetuses and young children especially vulnerable. Methylmercury is a neurotoxin, impacting brain development and function, causing issues with coordination, vision, hearing, and cognitive abilities.
What to Do After Contact
Accidental contact with mercury requires immediate action. If elemental mercury touches the skin, remove contaminated clothing and jewelry. Wash the affected skin thoroughly with soap and warm water, but avoid scrubbing, as this could facilitate deeper penetration. Move to an area with fresh air to minimize inhalation of any released vapors.
Call a poison control center (1-800-222-1222) and describe the exposure. Watch for symptoms like coughing, metallic taste, nausea, or headache, which may indicate vapor inhalation. Seek immediate medical attention if any symptoms develop or if there is concern about significant exposure.
Safe Management of Mercury
Preventing mercury exposure involves careful handling and disposal of items containing it. Common household items like older thermometers, thermostats, and fluorescent light bulbs contain elemental mercury. When these items break, they can release mercury and harmful vapors.
For small spills, such as from a broken thermometer, ensure the area is well-ventilated by opening windows. Never use a household vacuum cleaner or broom, as this can spread the mercury and increase vapor release. Instead, use stiff paper or cardboard to collect the beads, then use an eyedropper or tape to pick up smaller droplets. Place all contaminated materials, including cleanup tools and gloves, into a sealed, puncture-resistant container and label it as mercury waste. Contact your local health department or waste management authority for instructions on hazardous waste disposal, as mercury should never be poured down drains or put in regular trash.