Module 6: Workplace & Chemical Hazards 6.3 Mercury Susan Harwood Grant Number SH F-23 Shipbreaking

Disclaimer 2 This material was produced under grant number SH F-23 from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, U.S. Department of Labor. It does not necessarily reflect the views or polices of the U.S. Department of Labor, nor does mention of trade names, commercial products, or organizations imply endorsement by the U.S. Government.

Objectives 3 Explain what are chemical hazards we are dealing with Identify potential locations List what PPE may be required to work in Define chronic exposure effects

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Objectives 5 Explain the hazards what are we dealing with Cite potential locations List personal protective equipment required Describe chronic affects

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Mercury is a naturally occurring metal in the environment. 7 Figure 1 Mercury recovered and being recycled

It is considered a heavy metal and stands to reason why it is so toxic if exposed. 8 Figure 2 Recycled bag filter of mercury

Mercury’s nickname is “Quicksilver” 9 Figure 3 Bulb Eater filter recovered

Odorless, metallic, shiny, silver-white liquid and can be difficult to handle if spilled. 10 Figure 4 Light bulbs being recycled

In 1996 Federal regulations phased out the use of mercury in batteries. 11 Figure 5 Batteries being recycled

When heated, turns into a vapor and is considered colorless and odorless 12 Figure 6 Cutting on pads

Exposure is through skin absorption and inhalation 13 Figure 7 Electronic equipment that has mercury components

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Galleys and freezers are on every type of vessel. 15 Figure 8 Gauges in galley areas

Oilers or commonly known as supply ships contain large quantities of mercury in equipment. 16 Figure 9 Recycled bulb eater system to recover mercury

There are certain types of fluorescent lighting that contain mercury. 17 Figure 10 Fluorescent light recovered from the vessel for recycling

Mercury is the mechanics of the basic operations of the thermometer.. 18 Figure 11 Old thermometer and barometer

Barometers are located in the bridge of the ship to forecast weather changes. 19 Figure 12 Ship’s barometer

Hospitals, sickbays, doctors compartments may have wall mounted sphygmomanometers for blood pressure or left in drawers. 20 Figure 13 Blood pressure checks prior to entry

Mercury-Containing rechargeable batteries. 21 Figure 14 Battery packs rechargeable

Prior to the 1990’s mercury was used in antifouling paint on ships hull. 22 Figure 15 Antifouling paint exposed hull of vessels

Mercury switches were used prior to the 1970’s. 23 Figure 16 Electronic equipment with potential switches

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Employees should have initial evaluations conducted prior for background monitoring. 25 Figure 17 TSTC conducting medical surveillance prior to entry

Wearing protective clothing that is turned in at the end of each shift. 26 Figure 18 Mercury containing products waiting to be recycled

Protective clothing includes, but is not limited to coveralls, smocks, and aprons 27 Figure 19 Lab testing with aprons

When hotwork is being conducted the use of hair covers or hats are recommended. 28 Figure 20 Display respirator and hard hat

Do not use compressed air to remove mercury from protective clothing. Do not shake PPE. 29 Figure 21 Tyvek suit outer clothing

Street clothes should not be worn whenever airborne mercury concentrations exceed the PEL. 30 Figure 21 PETE personnel discussing shipbreaking at Marine Metals

Instruct personnel on the use of respirators and limitations that respirators. 31 Figure 22 Respirator usage during hotwork on pad

The use of contact lens not recommended. 32 Figure 23 Working in the area of engine room

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Mercury is toxic to living organisms and has a wide range of disorders. 34 Figure 24 Workers dismantling valves

Kidney damage and digestive disorders may result. 35 Figure 25 Worker on the main deck in protective clothing and eye wear

Mercury poisoning can occur with only a few drop absorbing into the skin. 36 Figure 26 TSTC testing chemicals

Muscle weakness & skin rashes. 37 Figure 27 Amfels drill conducting medvac exercise

Memory loss to mood swings. 38 Figure 28 Amfels exercise firefighters surveying workers down

May impair walking or writing coordination. 39 Figure 29 Cutter and worker in background on break

“Pins and needle” sensation in the hands and feet. 40 Figure 30 Cutting section on double bottom hull

Troubled sleeping, irritability, memory loss 41 Figure 31 Overall view of the slip and winch area

Treatment with medicine may reduce mercury in the blood. Urine also rids mercury from the body. 42 Figure 32 Medical chest on site of workplace

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References: 45 OSHA eTool National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS) Wikipedia Encyclopedia Electronic Library of Construction Occupational Safety and Health (

46 Worker safety is a priority