Precautions for Broken Light Bulbs
We’ve all been there: a broken bulb in one of our light fixtures. Sometimes it happens and when it does, it can be dangerous trying to remove it. Fortunately, with a few tips and tricks, anyone can remove a broken light bulb. Here are a few precautions for broken bulbs.
Precautions for Broken Light Bulbs
It is worth noting that light fixtures that use compact fluorescent bulbs (CFL) contain a small amount of mercury. When the bulb breaks, whether it’s because the lamp broke or something hit the light fixture, this mercury gets released into the surrounding area. Despite this fact, it is important to remember that CFL bulbs do not contain enough mercury to have an adverse effect on human health. However, it is still important to take great care when removing and replacing a broken or damaged CFL bulb.
When cleaning up a broken CFL, whether its from a pendant light or table lamp, use a piece of stiff cardboard to pick up the glass pieces and powder. Seal these remnants into a zippered plastic bag or a glass jar with lid before disposal. Next, use a piece of sticky tape (duct tape, packing tape, et cetera) to pick up the remaining pieces of glass and remaining powder. Finally, wipe the area using a damp paper towel or a disposal wet cloth. Do not use a vacuum or broom, as this will only cause the remnants of mercury to remain in your home.
If electricity is still on, shut it off before attempting to remove the base of the light bulb from the light fixture. To remove the light bulb from the socket of the light fixture, use a potato! Cut the potato in half and insert the sliced side into the broken CFL bulb. Twist gently and remove. Never, ever use tools or your hands to remove a broken light bulb from a light fixture!
Never, ever pick up the pieces using your bare hands and be sure to wash your hands following clean up and removal of a broken CFL bulb.
The potato method can also be used for other types of broken light bulbs, including traditional incandescent bulbs in ceiling lights, halogen bulbs and other light bulbs. If necessary, allow the area to cool off prior to trying to remove the broken light bulb from the light fixture to prevent injury.
Finally, if possible, always wear protective eye gear to clean up and remove light bulbs. Avoid touching your hands or face while dealing with the broken glass, as you could accidentally get a small shard into your eye and cause unintentional damage. Safety first, as with any type of broken glass object!
Broken light bulbs of different varieties can contain different materials, such as CFL bulbs containing mercury. Therefore, always take additional safety precautions such as the ones mentioned when cleaning up a broken bulb, especially if you are unsure of what it contains.
Since a broken light bulb can be easily removed with these tips, why not add even more beautiful light fixtures to your space? Check out our selection of lovely wall lamps!
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