What might happen if accidental breakage occurs?
Lamps are fragile and can easily break. The regulations distinguish between accidental breakage that occurs during normal transport and intentional breakage or crushing. While there is no specific amount of breakage that is considered accidental, less than 5% is generally acceptable. Anyone who chooses to recycle lamps under the Universal Waste Rule should take standard precautions to minimize breakage, such as using the boxes from new lamps to store old ones. More specific guidance on this is available from recyclers. Learn how to cleanup broken fluorescent bulbs by visiting EPA’s Mercury Web site.
