MSDS

Also, no significant adverse effects on humans by any of these routes have been found during the
many, many years that fluorescents have been made and used.
Antimony, manganese, yttrium and tin compounds are characterized by OSHA as hazardous
chemicals*, as are most inorganic compounds. However, due to their insolubility, relatively low
toxicity and small amount present in the phosphor and the lamp, these materials do not present a
significant hazard in the event of lamp breakage.
*Please note that barium and cadmium have not been used in fluorescent lamps since mid-1988.
Mercury
Neither the mercury nor the phosphor concentration in air produced as a result of breaking one or
a small number of compact fluorescent lamps should result in significant exposures to the
individual. However, if breaking a large number of lamps for disposal, appropriate industrial
hygiene monitoring and controls should be implemented to minimize airborne levels or surface
contamination. Dispose of large amounts of fluorescent bulbs in a well-ventilated area, and local
exhaust ventilation or personal protective equipment may be needed.
IV. DISPOSAL CONCERNS
TCLP
A Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure (TCLP) conducted on traditional fluorescent lamp
designs for mercury would most likely cause the lamps to be classified as a hazardous waste due
to the mercury content. While small numbers of these lamps placed in ordinary trash may not
appreciably affect the nature or method of disposal of the trash, under most circumstances
disposal of large quantities may be regulated. You should review your waste handling practices
to assure that you dispose of waste lamps properly and contact your state environmental
department for any regulations that may apply.
28-Dec-04
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