Fluorescent Lamp Disposal Regulations

An edison base screw in conventional light bulb compact fluorescent lamp.

Fluorescent lamp disposal regulations. Fluorescent lamps are specifically identified as universal waste in virginia s hazardous waste management regulations section 273 5. 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 lamps tube style lamps used as overhead lighting in offices and also available in compact globe shapes for a variety of home and office. The following states prohibit disposing of any mercury containing bulbs of any kind regardless of the bulb age and type.

Virtually all components of a fluorescent bulb can be recycled. Polychlorinated biphenyls pcbs were commonly used in the small capacitor within fluorescent light ballasts. State regulations change periodically and it is the user s responsibility to comply with federal state and local regulations. 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.

It is not intended to replace interpret or modify the regulations for managing used fluorescent and high intensity discharge hid lamp wastes in illinois. State regulations prohibit disposal of hazardous waste lamps and mce in municipal solid waste landfills. 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.

Fluorescent bulb disposal regulations procedures. The mercury inside fluorescent tube lights is hazardous so extra care should be taken to ensure that this material doesn t leak. Facts on compact fluorescent lamps proper disposal this fact sheet is for general information only. To access a state s laws and regulations click on the state below.

Ballasts manufactured through 1979 may contain pcbs. Some states and local jurisdictions have more stringent regulations than u s. Pcb containing ballasts become a concern if they are leaking or they will be removed and disposed of as hazardous waste. While it is possible to test.

Please consult with your local and state authorities for the most up to date requirements for lamp disposal.