How does mercury enter the environment?
It is naturally occurring as a result of normal breakdown of minerals in the earth’s crust. Inorganic mercury enters the air from the burning of coal or garbage and from the emissions of factories that use mercury. Once in water, methylmercury remains there for along time. Small fish and other organisms can take it up. How might I be exposed to mercury? Eating fish or shellfish contaminated with methylmercury. Absorbing mercury vapors released from dental fillings. Using medicinal products, such as antiseptics or skin lightening creams. Breathing air, drinking water, or coming in to contact with soil contaminated with mercury. Breaking a thermometer that contains mercury may also result in exposure from inhalation of mercury vapors. If this occurs or you just want to know what to do if this should happen, the Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM) has information at: http://www.in.gov/idem/your_environment/mercury/spill.pdf. This information also includes the state healt
