Occupational Mercury Exposure at a Thermometer Facility — Jiangsu Province, 2019

Abstract

Summary What is already known about this topic? Mercury is still used in the manufacture of some thermometers in China. This may pose health risks if exposure is not properly prevented and controlled. What is added by this report? An onsite investigation of a workplace at a thermometer facility in Jiangsu Province in 2019 found heavily elevated airborne and urinary mercury levels among a massive number of workers exposed to mercury. Traditional and obsolete technology as well as inadequate protection measures for occupational hazards caused this high level of exposure. What are the implications for public health practice? Employers at thermometer producing facilities need to adopt effective protection measures and implement strict management. Monitoring exposure, adopting better engineering controls, diligent cleaning, and providing recommended personal protective equipment (PPE) along with training to their workers properly can alleviate mercury exposure at their facilities. In addition, transitioning to mercury-free thermometers would eliminate the risk of mercury exposure.