Workshop on Clean-up Advice for Compact Fluorescent Lamps

The purpose of this meeting was to provide local, state, provincial, and federal environmental and health officials with an opportunity to discuss the available monitoring data regarding breakage of compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs), potential health effects from exposure to mercury released as a result of broken CFLs, and appropriate advice for homeowners on proper clean-up and personal protection in the event of an accident.

Officials from the Maine Department of Environmental Protection presented the preliminary results of their monitoring and data collection efforts and the implications for guidance on proper lamp cleanup. Public health officials from Maine and EPA discussed what is known about the potential health effects of mercury exposure from broken CFLs and proper advice for residents. The participants reviewed existing clean-up guidance and discussed ideas and suggestions for aligning the guidance that is provided to residents throughout the Region.

Meeting Attendees:

• State and federal environmental officials
• State public health officials