How Many Hazmat Suits Does It Take to Change a Light Bulb?

Diane Katz / January 25, 2011

Lest anyone tell you that the phase-out of (non-toxic) incandescent light bulbs will be hassle-free (other than hugely expensive), herewith is the directive from the Environmental Protection Agency for ridding your home of toxic vapor in the event you or a loved one (or relative) breaks the mercury-laden compact fluorescent (CFL) pushed by the government as superior:

• Have people and pets leave the room, and avoid the breakage area on the way out.
• Open a window or door to the outdoors and leave the room for 5-10 minutes.
• Shut off the central forced-air heating/air conditioning system (H&AC), if you have one.
• Collect materials you will need to clean up the broken bulb: (more…)