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How to Remove Switches
Removing switches
Removing a mercury vehicle switch takes from 30 seconds to fifteen minutes. The "Vehicle Mercury Light Switch Removal Guide" (Washington State Department of Ecology) and the Clean Car Campaign have instructions about how to remove switches from different vehicle makes and models.
Storing switches
Store switches in a leak-proof, closed plastic container labeled “Used mercury switches.” (In metal containers, any spilled mercury could react with the metal and leak through the seams.)
The mercury in the switch assembly is enclosed in a metal capsule about the size of a fingertip. You don't have to remove the capsule from the assembly, but if you do, the container can hold more switches. Do NOT open the capsule to expose the mercury.
Disposing of switches
Use a hazardous waste management company or a mercury reclamation facility to recycle or dispose of mercury switches.
Cash 'rebate'
Automotive recyclers participating in a Washington State program will receive $3.00 for each mercury switch removed. This is one provision of a Memorandum of Understanding signed by the Automotive Recyclers of Washington, the Washington State Department of Ecology and the auto manufacturers. For information about how to participate in the reimbursement program, contact Jan Brydsen, Department of Ecology, 509-575-2477 or jbry461@ecy.wa.gov.
For more information contact Taylor Watson, Health and Environmental Investigator, at taylor.watson@kingcounty.gov.
