Mercury Containing Devices

The general philosophy of the University is to eliminate all mercury containing devices that are non-essential to operations. These items, including thermostats, thermometers, mercury containing switches, and manometers are considered a Universal Waste and must be handled and disposed of as such. Although not as restrictive as the hazardous waste rules, the universal waste rules still require proper storage and labeling of the waste containers while awaiting disposal or recycling. (Fluorescent lamps also contain mercury and are covered by the Fluorescent Lamp guidance document).

Unwanted mercury-containing devices can be disposed through the EM department EnvironmentalManagement@MissouriState.edu or 417 836-8334 (6-8334 on campus).

Mercury containing devices will be accumulated and stored in a container in the hazardous waste accumulation area while awaiting disposal or recycling. The container will be labeled with a Universal Waste label designating the waste a “Universal Waste - mercury containing devices. The container must be kept closed and the beginning date of accumulation must be provided on the container. The date will be modified as appropriate, i.e., upon removal of the items for recycling or disposal and beginning accumulation of new items. Universal waste may be accumulated on site for up to one year.