Broken Light Bulbs

March 2023 Safety Topic

Bulbs broken in use or handling must be managed as “Hazardous Waste.” Hazardous waste has properties that make it dangerous or capable of harming human health or the environment.

Intact fluorescent lamps are considered universal waste. However, once broken they are regarded as hazardous waste, as they contain mercury. One or more broken fluorescent bulbs must be treated with the appropriate precautions and cannot EVER be disposed of as universal waste.

Immediately report any bulb breakage to your supervisor and a Campus Life Safety and Regulatory Compliance team member. Any hazardous waste spill is considered an emergency and must be handled as efficiently as possible.

  • Do Not Clean Up Broken Bulbs If:
  • You have not been trained
  • You do not have the knowledge to do it safely
  • You lack materials to clean it up
  • You feel it is unsafe to clean it up

For more information or questions about broken light bulbs, please speak with your supervisor or contact a Campus Life Safety and Regulatory Compliance team member.