Mayo's management of mercury in the medical environment has evolved over time. Historically, elemental mercury from thermometers, blood pressure units, research apparatus, and other devices was referred to Mayo's Pulmonary Laboratory for cleaning, redistillation, reuse, or sale. Mercury batteries were first collected for referral to a California-based reprocessing center in 1978. A strong emphasis has existed since the mid-1970's on collecting and commercially disposing of mercury-containing laboratory wastes through Mayo's hazardous waste program. Specialized mercury vacuum cleaners were first purchased in the 1970's to ensure than mercury spills were effectively and safely managed.
In more recent years, institutional interest in mercury management has led to even more aggressive actions. Mercury thermometers have been removed from Mayo's 1500 outpatient examination rooms and replaced with electronic devices. Similarly, mercury thermometers and sygnometers were removed and replaced with electronic devices in all hospital areas. Mayo's Pulmonary Function Laboratory discontinued the use of large quantities of mercury associated with their Haldane/VanSlyke devices in favor of electronic instrumentation. Laboratory test procedures have been re-evaluated for mercury use with an emphasis on substitution, whenever possible, and strict attention to disposal management when substitution is not possible. Used mercury-containing fluorescent light bulbs are, of course, collected and disposed of through a commercial vendor who recovers and recycles mercury.
Efforts continue to further investigate and reduce the presence of mercury in the Mayo environment. Examples of such efforts include the incorporation of heavy metal analysis in certain product purchases and similar evaluations in certain large components of Mayo's incinerated waste stream. Additionally, we have strived through continuing educational efforts to sensitize staff on avoidance of the use of mercury or mercury-containing materials, whenever possible, and especially when alternative choices are available.
To Case Studies Menu |
© Copyright |