- High levels of mercury exposure can damage the brain, heart, kidneys, lungs and immune system, according to Energy Star. If a CFL bulb breaks, it's important to open a window and get all humans and pets out of the room as fast as possible. Be sure to turn off the central heat/air, and do not step on the broken glass on the way out. Wait at least 15 minutes before returning.
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After airing out the room, it will be safe to clean up the mess, but you should place all glass fragments, as well as any materials, such as paper towels or disposable wipes, that come in contact with the fragments in a jar with a lid or a sealable plastic bag.
Carefully pick up the glass fragments and place them in a jar or plastic bag. Use tape to pick up smaller pieces. For hard surfaces, wipe the area with damp paper towels or disposable wipes and place them in the jar or plastic bag. If you vacuum, remove the vacuum bag afterward and place it in a sealed plastic bag before discarding.
If any broken glass or powder got on clothing or bedding, throw the items away, as washing them could contaminate the machine and the sewage. However, you can wash items that only came in contact with vapor. If you got any powder or fragments on your shoes, wipe them off with damp paper towels or disposable wipes and place the towels in the jar or plastic bag. -
Depending on the rules for disposal where you live, you may have to take the jar or bag containing the broken bulb and cleanup materials to a recycling center. Check with your local government before discarding these materials.
Be sure to wash your hands thoroughly after cleanup.
The next few times you vacuum, you should shut off the central air or heat and open up a window, and leave it open for at least 15 minutes after you finish, according to Energy Star.
