Mercury is a naturally occurring chemical element that is liquid at room temperature. It has some unique properties that have made it useful throughout history, but also poses health and environmental risks if not handled properly. So can an average person actually own and possess mercury legally? Let’s take a closer look at the laws and regulations surrounding mercury ownership.
Quick Summary
In most countries, individual possession of small amounts of mercury is not illegal. However, there are often regulations on the sale, handling, and disposal of mercury that limit how and where it can be acquired and used. Larger amounts may require specific licenses and permits. Mercury poses well-documented health risks with exposure or improper handling, so safe storage and disposal are essential.
Is It Legal to Own Mercury?
In the United States and many other countries, it is legal for an individual to own mercury. There are no federal laws in the US prohibiting the purchase or possession of mercury by private citizens. However, some state and local regulations may apply.
For example, the state of California limits possession of mercury to less than 55 pounds (25 kg) without a permit. Other states like Maine, Connecticut, and Louisiana have also set limits ranging from 2 to 6 pounds (1-3 kg) without licensing. But in most states, private ownership of small, reasonable amounts is allowed.
Sale and Distribution
While ownership itself may be legal, the sale of mercury is more regulated. In the US, mercury cannot be sold in many states without proper chemical distributor licensing. For example, selling mercury on eBay has been prohibited since March 2000 due to health concerns.
The sale and export of mercury worldwide is also regulated under guidelines like the Basel Convention and the Minamata Convention. These limit trade and distribution, especially to developing countries without proper controls.
Common Uses Allowed
Some common legitimate uses of mercury are generally allowed without licensing, assuming reasonable quantities are involved:
- In antiques like thermometers, barometers, mirrors, and other instruments
- In dental fillings (amalgam)
- In laboratories – for research, industrial, educational use
- In art – such as mercury glass sculptures or other artwork
- In cultural or religious rituals and practices
- As an investment commodity or collectible
However, restrictions or reporting requirements may still apply for things like imports/exports of products containing mercury.
Health and Environmental Concerns
The potential for mercury exposure and release into the environment is a major reason ownership and use is regulated. High amounts of mercury vapor exposure can harm the brain, heart, lungs, and immune system. And when released, mercury can persist in soil and waterways, accumulate in animals/fish, and contaminate food supplies.
Exposure Routes
The three exposure pathways of most concern with mercury are:
- Inhalation of mercury vapor – The liquid evaporates at room temperature, so fumes can build up in enclosed spaces.
- Absorption through direct skin contact – Mercury can be absorbed through the skin, so spills pose a contact hazard.
- Ingestion through contaminated food/water – Mercury accumulates up the food chain, contaminating fish and game.
Chronic low doses through any of these pathways can lead to mercury toxicity and permanent nervous system damage over time. High vapor concentrations in a short period can be fatal.
Safe Handling and Storage
To protect health and prevent environmental release, mercury must be properly handled and stored. Key precautions include:
- Storing it securely in sealed, non-breakable containers to prevent spills
- Using it only in well-ventilated spaces to limit vapor buildup
- Wearing latex/nitrile gloves and goggles when handling
- Following strict cleanup procedures for any spills or broken devices
- Not pouring it down drains or releasing into the environment
With adequate care taken, the risks of mercury possession can be minimized. But improper handling can lead to heavy fines and cleanup costs.
Purchasing Mercury
While regulated, there are still limited means to purchase mercury if allowed in your state and intended use:
- From specialty chemical supply companies
- On auction sites like eBay or Craigslist
- From antique dealers or collectors
- Directly from some mines or distributors as an investment
Prices vary dramatically from $5-$50 per pound based on quantity and purity. Be sure to review all applicable regulations when purchasing.
Disposal Regulations
Improper disposal of mercury by dumping into landfills, down drains or directly into the environment can lead to large fines and criminal penalties. Special hazardous waste handling is required instead:
Household Mercury Disposal
Many local household hazardous waste collection sites accept small mercury amounts from residents. These facilities then handle the regulated disposal.
Business Mercury Disposal
For companies and labs, chemical waste contractors must be used to properly collect, transport, and dispose of mercury following federal guidelines.
| Disposal Method | Description |
|---|---|
| Landfills | Most landfills are not approved to accept waste mercury. Illegal dumping can lead to huge fines. |
| Incineration | At approved facilities, mercury waste can be safely incinerated at high temperatures. Scrubbers capture mercury emissions. |
| Stabilization | Mercury can be mixed with sulfur polymers to form a stable, non-evaporating solid for landfill disposal. |
| Recycling | In some cases waste mercury can be recycled at reclaiming facilities to recover purified liquid mercury. |
Following these proper disposal procedures prevents environmental contamination and protects the health of disposal workers.
Conclusion
While mercury ownership is broadly allowed, important restrictions still apply. Regulations on distribution, permitted uses, handling precautions, and disposal exist to limit the significant health and environmental risks that mercury poses. By following these rules, individuals can legally and safely own small amounts of mercury for legitimate purposes.
However, owning larger quantities of mercury, or using it in ways that recklessly endanger health or contaminate the environment can still lead to prosecutions. When handled carefully and responsibly though, most private mercury ownership poses little risk and remains legal.