MSDS

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SECTION 3: HEALTH CONCERNS
Phosphor
Except for small modifications, the halophosphor is essentially the same material that has been
in use in fluorescent lamps for half of a century. No significant adverse effects, either by
ingestion, inhalation, skin contact, or eye implant, were found in a five-year animal study of the
original phosphor by the Industrial Hygiene Foundation of the Mellon Institute. Also, there have
been no significant adverse effects on humans by any of these routes during the many years of
its manufacture or use. The phosphor is somewhat similar to the inert mineral apatites (calcium
phosphate-fluorides) which occur in nature.
Antimony, manganese, yttrium and barium 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 breakage of the lamp.
Mercury
Neither the mercury nor the phosphor concentration in air produced as a result of breaking one
or a small number of fluorescent lamps would result in significant exposure levels. However,
when breaking a large number of lamps for disposal, appropriate industrial hygiene monitoring
and controls should be used to minimize airborne levels or surface contamination. Such work
must be done in a well-ventilated area. Local exhaust ventilation and personal protective
equipment such as respirators may be needed.
SECTION 4: DISPOSAL CONCERNS
TCLP
Disposal requirements for fluorescent lamps are determined by whether the lamp is
characterized as hazardous waste. The ProLume Eco-Shield lamp would not be classified as a
hazardous waste, based on test data and statistical analysis developed according to the US
EPA’s Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure (TCLP) for mercury.
While the ProLume Eco-Shield lamp will pass the federal EPA TCLP test, state or local
regulations may still regulate disposal of mercury-containing products. If state or local disposal
regulations exist, state and local agencies should be contacted for specific guidance.
Non-TCLP compliant products should be treated as hazardous materials, for more information
please visit www.lamprecycle.org
.