Reducing Dental Mercury Emissions: Installing Amalgam Separators and Achieving Compliance

Publication

Reducing Dental Mercury Emissions: Installing Amalgam Separators and Achieving Compliance

Abstract

The Subcommittee on Domestic Policy of the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform investigated the improper disposal of mercury-containing wastes, notably from the dental industry. Dental offices contribute about 40-50% of mercury in wastewater which poses severe health risks, causing chronic and acute poisoning with various associated health problems, especially affecting the nervous system. A national survey shows that several states and local governments have implemented measures to reduce dental mercury emissions, emphasizing the success of mandatory or voluntary programs with potential mandates.