THE ACCELERATED REDUCTION AND ELIMINATION OF TOXICS IN CANADA - THE CASE OF MERCURY-CONTAINING MEDICAL INSTRUMENTS IN QUEBEC HOSPITAL CENTERS

In Canada, medical instruments containing mercury (Hg) are still widel y used in hospitals. These are mostly thermometers and sphygmomanomete rs. Mercury present in these instruments does not in itself constitute a risk of contamination since this metal is contained within a closed system. However, breakage, inadequate maintenance and disposal of suc h instruments can expose workers and the public to this toxic substanc e. In Quebec, 80% of the 28 hospitals surveyed still use Hg sphygmoman ometers and 45% Hg thermometers. Besides, 35% do not have any recovery procedures in case of spillage and most mercury spills are apparently not reported. Two main courses of action are recommended: the gradual replacement of these medical instruments by aneroid sphygmomanometers and electronic thermometers, and the establishment and communication, in the form of a handbook of guidelines to handle and dispose of merc ury safely.