What is the Task Force on Ritualistic Uses of Mercury?
The Task Force on Ritualistic Uses of Mercury investigates the health issues involving mercury facing Haitian- and Caribbean-American communities, particularly those that practice spiritist faiths such as Santeria. It continues the work of the OPPT Ritual Use of Mercury Program. In January 1993, assistance was requested from EPA’s Office of Pollution Prevention and Toxics (OPPT) by a state department of health to explore the potential health effects of exposure to elemental mercury. An investigation revealed that religious supply companies, candle shops, and folk pharmacies or botánicas were selling candles flavored with mercury and vials of liquid mercury to be burned in candles, sprinkled around rooms, or consumed as a home remedy. The candles and sprinkled mercury are often used in the rooms of children and infants to bring good luck and protection from evil. The Office of Pollution Prevention and Toxics conducted a screening-level assessment in 1993-4 and prepared a number of publi
