No. 104 - Miljøstyrelsen

Different types of compact fluorescent lamps and straight fluorescent lamps
are available. The general categorisation is based on form (e.g. pear, globe,
candle or spiral) or the function (e.g. dimmed, outdoor etc.) Another
categorisation is lamps with or without integral ballast. A lamp with integral
ballast has a normal fitting, i.e. bayonet or screw base that can be used in a
normal socket directly.
Compact fluorescent lamps are single-ended and straight fluorescent lamps
are double-ended.
Seven different manufacturers/importers of compact fluorescent lamps and
straight fluorescent lamps were interviewed for information about quantities
of mercury in fluorescent lamps and about types of mercury used in these
lamps.
The result of the survey was the following:
� Compact fluorescent lamps can contain between 1.2 and 4.9 mg Hg
per lamp
� Straight fluorescent lamps can contain between 1.4 and 9.5 mg Hg
per lamp
The content of mercury in compact fluorescent lamps is typically lower than
the statutory limit value of 5 mg Hg. So for the exposure calculations it will be
relevant to use different values. The content of mercury in a lamp depends on
many factors such as use pattern, mercury dosage technology as well as size,
age, lifetime and material composition of the lamp.
Three manufacturers/importers have stated that mercury in the lamps is
found in the form of a HgFe tablet, in the form of amalgam or in the form of
metallic mercury. No correlation has been found between the type of lamp
and the type of mercury compound used.
Some sources state that consumers are better protected against exposure to
mercury in a fluorescent lamp using a HgFe tablet or amalgam compared with
liquid mercury, since this mercury is bound. One manufacturer also states
that a compact fluorescent lamp with extra casing can also give better
protection of the consumer since in some cases only the outer casing breaks
during accidents in homes.
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