Safety

Healthcare striding toward mercury-free alternatives

OSHA Healthcare Connection, October 11, 2005

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Hospitals have made significant progress in minimizing the risk of mercury exposure to patients, healthcare workers, and pollution of the environment, according to a national survey by Hospitals for a Healthy Environment (H2E) and the American Hospital Association (AHA).

About 80% of respondents to the survey indicated they have completely eliminated mercury thermometers from their facilities, and another 73% had removed all mercury blood pressure devices. More than 54% of respondents expect to virtually eliminate the hazard through mercury management policies.

H2E is a nonprofit environmental group affiliated with the AHA and the Environmental Protection Agency. H2E reported on the results of the survey September 27 and offered recommendations for further mercury reduction in healthcare facilities.



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