SDS
Section 6. ACCIDENTAL RELEASE MEASURES
THERE ARE NO KNOWN HEALTH HAZARDS FROM EXPOSURE TO LAMPS THAT ARE INTACT AND USED AS INTENDED.
Breakage of lamp may result in some exposure to phosphor powder and elemental mercury. No adverse effects
are expected from occasional exposure to broken lamps. As a matter of good practice avoid prolonged exposure
through the use of adequate ventilation during clean up or disposal.
Mercury: The mercury in the air as a result of breaking one or a small number of fluorescent lamps should not
result in significant exposures to an individual. However, when breaking a large number of lamps for disposal,
appropriate industrial hygiene monitoring and controls should be implemented to minimize airborne levels or
surface contamination. We recommend a well-ventilated area, and local exhaust ventilation or personal
protective equipment.
Phosphor Powder (as nuisance dust): There have been no significant adverse effects on humans by ingestion,
inhalation, skin contact, or eye contact. Antimony, manganese, yttrium and tin compounds are characterized by
OSHA as hazardous chemicals, however, due to their insolubility, relatively low toxicity and small amount present
in the phosphor and lamp, these materials do not present a significant hazard in the event of breakage of the lamp.
Glass: Glass dust is considered to be physiologically inert and as such has an OSHA exposure limit of 15-mg/cubic
meter for total dust and 5-mg/cubic meter for respirable dust. Perform normal first aid procedures. Seek medical
attention as required.
Inhalation: If discomfort, irritation of symptoms of pulmonary involvement should develop, remove from exposure
and seek medical attention.
Ingestion: In the unlikely event of ingestion of a large quantity of material, seek medical attention.
Eye/Skin Contact: Wash eyes/skin, including under eyelids, immediately with copious amounts of water and seek
medical attention.
Section 7. HANDLING AND STORAGE
Use good material handling and storage practices to avoid breakage. Take usual precautions for collection of
broken glass. Place materials in closed containers to avoid generating dust. All compact fluorescent lamps contain
some amount of mercury. The EPA recommends that if a CFL breaks carefully sweep up all the fragments—wipe
the area with a wet towel and dispose of all fragments, including the used towel, in a sealed plastic bag. Follow all
disposal instructions. If possible open windows to allow the room to ventilate. Do NOT use a vacuum. Place all
fragments in a sealed plastic bag and follow disposal instructions. All disposal options should be evaluated with
respect to federal, state, and local laws and requirements. Before disposing check with officials for current CFL
disposal regulations.
Section 8. EXPOSURE CONTROLS/PERSONAL PROTECTION
If lamp breaks, sharp edges and dust can be created. Wear eye protection, gloves, and respiratory protection when
cleaning up breakage. Contain in closed container and dispose based on applicable Federal, State, and local
regulations.
Ventilation: Avoid prolonged exposure through the use of adequate ventilation during clean up or disposal.
Respiratory: Use NIOSH approved respirator if large quantities of lamps are being broken for disposal
Hand and Eye Protection: OSHA specified safety glasses, goggles, or face shield and puncture resistant gloves are
recommended if lamps are being broken



