Fluorescent Tube Disposal
For Businesses

A light bulb and a fluorescent bulb differ in their design, operation, and energy efficiency. Traditional light bulbs produce light by heating a filament inside the bulb until it glows.

In contrast, fluorescent bulbs generate light through a different process. They contain a gas that, when electrically charged, emits ultraviolet light. This UV light then interacts with a phosphor coating on the inside of the tube, producing visible light.

Fluorescent tubes are classified as hazardous WEEE under Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Regulations (WEEE). This classification means that they must be disposed of according to specific regulations.

Specialist facilities ensure that the components, including hazardous materials like mercury, are safely processed and recycled, reducing the environmental impact. Proper waste collection and adherence to WEEE regulations are crucial in managing these energy-efficient waste lamps.

If it breaks, it is important to handle it with care to avoid exposure to mercury. Broken fluorescent tubes should not be disposed of with regular household waste.

Instead, they should be collected by a professional team that can handle broken waste lamps safely. This ensures that the hazardous materials are contained and processed correctly to prevent any environmental contamination. 

A typical fluorescent tube contains a small amount of mercury, usually around 3 to 5 milligrams. Despite being a tiny amount, this mercury is crucial for the tube’s functionality and energy-efficient operation. However, because mercury is a hazardous substance, it is important to handle and dispose of fluorescent tubes properly. Recycling centres are equipped to safely manage and recycle waste lamps, ensuring that the mercury is handled in an environmentally responsible way according to WEEE regulations.

Yes, we provide recycling containers for fluorescent lamps. This includes both a 6ft coffin and an 8ft coffin, available to commercial customers. These containers help businesses manage their materials both safely and efficiently.

Fluorescent light tubes contain a small amount of mercury, a toxic substance that can be harmful to human health and the environment if not handled correctly.

When broken or improperly disposed of, these tubes can release mercury vapour, leading to potential poisoning and environmental pollution. 

It’s crucial for businesses to understand that this product should not be treated as general waste. This product requires special attention and disposal methods.

By choosing our service, businesses can ensure they are contributing to the reduction of mercury vapour release, and promoting a cleaner, safer environment.