Know the IssueGlobal Mercury Campaign / Model PoliciesMercury-Free Alternatives Tools & ResourcesKnow the Issue Mercury pollution is a severe global environmental and human health problem. The spread – and use – of mercury undermines efforts to improve health conditions in communities.Many instruments used in hospitals, healthcare facilities and laboratories contain mercury. The substance is commonly found in thermometers, and blood pressure measuring device. Tools used in construction and the households such as thermostats, pressure gauges, and switches may also contain mercury. Mercury may be released from these and other similar products, as no device is 100% failure-proof. Substances such as fixatives, preservatives, lab chemicals, cleaners, and other products may have mercury added deliberately. When discarded inappropriately, mercury always contaminates the environment.Know the hazardsToxins with an especially heavy impact on the healthcare sector may be found in:Dioxin-containing byproductsMercury-containing medical devices and wastes...
