Reducing Workplace Risks from Mercury and Other Heavy Metal Exposures

Mercury exposure remains a serious occupational health concern for employees in industries such as mining, manufacturing, dentistry, and laboratory operations where mercury or mercury-containing materials are handled. Because mercury can vaporize at room temperature, inhalation is the most common route of exposure. Once inhaled, vapors are quickly absorbed into the bloodstream and may accumulate in organs such as the brain, kidneys, and liver. Even low-level, long-term exposure has been linked to lasting neurological and physiological effects.

Symptoms of mercury exposure vary depending on intensity and duration. Acute, high-level exposure may cause headaches, chest discomfort, nausea, and skin or respiratory irritation. Chronic exposure, however, can lead to more severe health issues, including tremors, memory loss, mood changes, muscle weakness, and kidney damage. Since mercury builds up in the body over time, proper safety measures are essential to prevent both immediate and long-term health risks.

“Mercury exposure is not only a health hazard but also a regulatory and safety compliance issue,” said Joe Frasca, Senior Vice President of Marketing at EMSL Analytical, Inc. “Without proper containment and disposal procedures, mercury can contaminate workplace surfaces, equipment, and air, placing workers and nearby communities at risk. Organizations that fail to follow OSHA and other safety standards also face potential legal and financial liabilities. Preventing exposure requires a comprehensive approach that includes ventilation controls, personal protective equipment, regular monitoring, and employee training.”

With laboratory locations throughout North America, EMSL Analytical provides environmental and industrial hygiene testing services to detect mercury and other heavy metals, as well as a wide range of additional hazardous substances. The company also offers a selection of personal protective equipment to support workplace safety initiatives.

To learn more about mercury or other industrial hygiene, environmental, health, and safety testing resources, please visit www.EMSL.com, call (800) 220-3675, or email info@EMSL.com.

About EMSL Analytical, Inc.

EMSL Analytical is one of the leading testing laboratories with locations throughout the United States and Canada. EMSL is a nationally recognized and locally focused provider specializing in fast laboratory results for mold, bacteria, Legionella, USP 797, pathogens, asbestos, lead, soot, char & ash from fires, VOCs, odors, radon, formaldehyde, indoor air quality, microbiology, environmental, industrial hygiene, radiological, food, beverage & consumer products, and material testing services for the identification of unknown substances. EMSL services both professionals and the general public. EMSL maintains an extensive list of accreditations from leading organizations as well as state and federal regulating bodies including, but not limited to A2LA, AIHA LAP, LLC. (AIHA EMLAP, AIHA IHLAP, AIHA ELLAP), NVLAP, CDC ELITE, CPSC, CA ELAP, NY ELAP, TX DOH, NJDEP and multiple other state accrediting agencies. Please visit our website at www.EMSL.com for a complete listing of accreditations. In addition, EMSL carries a wide range of Sampling Equipment and Investigative Products for environmental professionals.

Contact Information

Joseph Frasca

Senior Vice President of Marketing

EMSL Analytical, Inc.

(1) 856-303-2503

Contact via E-mail