Watch the video above: CFL light bulb safety concerns
SASKATOON – While Health Canada says compact fluorescent bulbs are safe to use, mercury is a highly toxic substance. Mishandling the bulbs or storing them carelessly can result in health problems.
READ MORE: Facts, figures on mercury and light bulbs
Over the past week, Pat Eberherr has stocked up on more than 144 incandescent light bulbs. She doesn’t trust the new CFLs.
“If you break one in your home, then you’re emitting mercury into the air, everywhere,” Eberherr explained.
Dr. Barry Blakely is a toxicology professor at the University of Saskatchewan. He says pregnant women should be cautious, but he says there is no need to panic if a bulb is broken.
“You might break one bulb, you will not die from mercury poisoning or likely become affected,” he explained.
“People with asthma -the irritation of the elemental mercury could aggravate your asthma.”
If you break a CFL, Health Canada recommends ventilating the room for at least 15 minutes. Do not use a vacuum, instead use gloves to sweep up the debris and dispose of it at a household hazardous waste location as soon as possible.
READ MORE: What you need to know about LED bulbs
“The bigger concern is disposal of the bulbs in large quantities,” said Dr. Blakely.
“They are a persistent chemical that will contaminate the soil and the water, and eventually end up in water sources: birds, fish, and even the food chain for people.”
You can dispose of CFLs properly through the City of Saskatoon. Drop off information can be found on the city’s website.
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