Fluorescent Lamp Disposal Regulations

Examples of common universal waste electric lamps include but are not limited to fluorescent high intensity discharge neon mercury vapor high pressure sodium and metal halide lamps.

Fluorescent lamp disposal regulations.

State regulations change periodically and it is the user s responsibility to comply with federal state and local regulations. Polychlorinated biphenyls pcbs were commonly used in the small capacitor within fluorescent light ballasts. It is not intended to replace interpret or modify the regulations for managing used fluorescent and high intensity discharge hid lamp wastes in illinois. Therefore if the lamps are being recycled they are not subject to the more stringent reporting and handling procedures that are necessary when managing hazardous wastes.

Virtually all components of a fluorescent bulb can be recycled. Ballasts manufactured through 1979 may contain pcbs. A lamp is specifically designed to produce radiant energy most often in the ultraviolet visible and infra red regions of the electromagnetic spectrum. Fluorescent lamps tube style lamps used as overhead lighting in offices and also available in compact globe shapes for a variety of home and office.

Fluorescent bulb disposal regulations procedures. Please consult with your local and state authorities for the most up to date requirements for lamp disposal. While it is possible to test. The following states prohibit disposing of any mercury containing bulbs of any kind regardless of the bulb age and type.

Facts on compact fluorescent lamps proper disposal this fact sheet is for general information only. Epa does and may require that you recycle cfls and other mercury containing light bulbs. In some areas it s actually illegal to dispose of fluorescent tubes in the trash so be sure to follow the proper steps in recycling your fluorescent tubes to avoid breaking the law or damaging people s health. Your area may prohibit disposal and or require recycling.

The mercury inside fluorescent tube lights is hazardous so extra care should be taken to ensure that this material doesn t leak. To access a state s laws and regulations click on the state below. Fluorescent lamp disposal and recycling in epa region 2 a guide for businesses in nj ny pr and vi april 2007 fluorescent lamps that are not marked as such i e those that have an unfinished aluminum end cap and no green marking are generally considered to be regulated hazardous waste after their useful life. Fluorescent lamps are specifically identified as universal waste in virginia s hazardous waste management regulations section 273 5.

State regulations prohibit disposal of hazardous waste lamps and mce in municipal solid waste landfills.