Mercury > Mercury sources > Mercury-containing products

Mercury-containing Products

Mercury conducts electricity and has other properties that can make it useful for electrical applications. Mercury-containing electrical devices can be found in homes, cars and businesses, though almost all uses are obsolete. 

According to the manufacturers reporting to the Interstate Mercury Education and Reduction Clearinghouse (IMERC), switches and relays contain significantly more mercury than any other product category.

Mercury in Measuring Devices

• Mercury-containing Thermometers
• Mercury-containing Barometers and Altimeters
• Mercury-containing Sphygmomanometers
• Mercury-containing Dairy Manometers

Mercury-containing Electrical Equipment

• Mercury-containing Switches and Relays
• Mercury in Thermostats
• Mercury-containing Lamps/ Light Bulbs
• Mercury in Batteries

Mercury in Novelties and Toys

Mercury in Medicine

Older Mercury-containing Equipment can leave a toxic legacy, especially if it is disposed of improperly, broken, or burned.  This link leads to a section in Historical Uses for Mercury in Washington.

Related information:

Mercury Necklaces are covered on this Web site from the Washington State Department of Health.
Mercury Identification in Washington State Manufacturing, This pdf report assesses mercury use by manufacturers in the State of Washington, identifies products and manufacturers to target mercury reduction, and suggests alternatives.
EPA's Table of Products That May Contain Mercury and Recommended Management Options