Mercury Lamp Recycling Information for Canadians

Drum-Top Crusher Use

The information provided in this fact sheet is for information purposes only and should not be construed as the Government of Canada’s endorsement of one mercury lamp processing technology over another. This site will be updated as programs are introduced and evaluated across Canada.

Drum-top crushers (DTCs) are not recommended for use at locations where environmentally or chemically sensitive individuals may be exposed to them. If you use or plan to use a DTC (or any other device that handles mercury-containing lamps), it is your responsibility to meet all applicable federal, provincial and/or territorial regulatory requirements where the storing, shipping, and processing of spent mercury-containing lamps are concerned. Your first reference point is the provincial and territorial authorities identified in the Key Contacts fact sheet. Designated (lamp) industry stewards and larger municipalities will also be able to provide advice.

While some U.S. states have banned the use of DTCs, as of March 2011 no Canadian province or territory had taken that step. This situation should be monitored for developments, especially in provinces that have active stewardship programs under development since such stewards will likely evaluate all available/feasible lamp collection options, including DTCs.

The U.S. EPA's Fluorescent Lamp Recycling document provides a concise checklist of DTC-related issues to consider. In this fact sheet, that list is replicated verbatim.  For additional details, the reader is advised to consult the full report (PDF, 234 kb). The reader is also advised that this is not a definitive list of recommendations; device manufacturers will likely have further guidelines and advice. 

Choosing a Drum-Top Crusher

  • Purchase a commercially manufactured DTC from a reliable manufacturer. Do not build one yourself.
  • Things to look for:
    • Vacuum pump to create negative internal pressure
    • Particulate and activated carbon filters (for effective ventilation of emissions)
    • Well-designed and tightly fitted seals at all connection points
    • Sturdy construction

Where to Use It

  • Indoor use:
    • Use and store the DTC in a room away from high-traffic areas
    • Use and store the DTC in a room with good ventilation that is completely segregated from other parts of the building
    • Do not use and store the DTC in areas where the temperature is elevated
    • Keep the DTC room clean and free of all fluorescent lamp debris
  • Outdoor use:
    • Use a large fan to vent any emissions away from the user
    • Do not use near building air intakes, building entrances, or windows
    • Do not operate the DTC on hot days
  • If the DTC must be moved (e.g., to a storage area):
    • Ensure all ports are covered/plugged
    • Avoid disturbing the contents of the drum

Management

  • Drums should be managed according to manufacturer specifications
  • Do not open the DTC to put debris into it
  • Do not transfer crushed lamps to a different container
  • Drums containing crushed lamps should be:
    • Structurally sound
    • Well sealed
  • Do not store crushed lamps in areas where the temperature is elevated
  • Send to a commercial recycler that handles crushed lamps and filters (before you acquire a DTC, check with a local/regional recycler to confirm that they are willing and able to take your material)

Inspection and Maintenance

  • Follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule
  • Inspect before each use for damage or improper assembly
  • Check for negative pressure before use
  • Maintain a log of the number of lamps crushed
  • Keep a maintenance log and the manufacturer’s manual with the DTC

Operation

  • Training:
    • Read and understand the manufacturer’s manual
    • Practice operation of the DTC, filter changes, and drum changes before using it
    • Inspect the DTC for proper assembly
    • Inspect for damage or wear
    • Know how to properly clean up broken lamps
    • Know how to use respirators and other safety equipment
  • Do not crush more lamps per drum than the manufacturer recommends
  • Do not exceed the manufacturer’s recommendation regarding a unit’s continuous use
  • Recommended safety equipment:
    • Puncture-resistant gloves
    • Safety glasses or face shield
    • Disposal coveralls and shoes or booties
    • In some cases, fit-tested respirator with the correct mercury cartridges
  • Let the drum contents settle for at least 15 minutes before removing the DTC from the drum (one DTC vendor recommends a settling period of about 30 minutes prior to removing the crushing device; in this regard, always check with the manufacturer’s guidelines)
  • Immediately seal the drum after removing the DTC

Monitoring for Mercury

  • Monitor at least once per every two drums
    • Monitoring should be performed by a Registered Occupational Hygienist1 OR
    • Purchase or lease a mercury vapour analyzer
  • NEVER use a drum-top crusher if:
    • There is white powder on/around the DTC
    • There is any damage to the DTC, especially the vacuum system, seals, or filters
    • The DTC has been incorrectly assembled
    • The DTC has been modified in any way

1 For more information, go to the Canadian Registration Board of Occupational Hygienists.

Note:  As of December 2010, there were no official standards for the design and construction of DTCs in North America.