Eurofins | BLC mercury testing and analysis services
At Eurofins | BLC, we can analyse consumer products and materials for mercury content, as well as provide compliance support for various global legislation. Mercury is a heavy metal, sometimes known as quicksilver, which occurs naturally in the environment in different chemical forms.
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What products should undergo mercury testing?
Mercury is used in many household products such as:
- Thermometers
- Thermostats
- Barometers
- Switches (including those found in irons)
- Washing machines
- Top-loading freezers
In addition, the following consumer products may also contain mercury and will need to undergo mercury testing:
- Footwear
- Paints
- Pigments
- Biocides
- Pesticides
How does mercury affect people and the environment?
Mercury does not degrade and is not destroyed by combustion. It can be absorbed through the skin, inhaled or ingested and accumulates in tissue. It is toxic and can endanger living organisms. Exposure to mercury can produce adverse health effects to humans such as immune system dysfunctions, vision, speech and hearing impairment, and in extreme cases even death.
Why carry out mercury testing and analysis?
The European Union has made considerable progress in addressing the global challenges of mercury since it launched the EU mercury strategy in 2005. This has resulted in restrictions on the sale of measuring devices containing mercury, a ban on exports of mercury from the EU that will come into force in 2011 and new rules on safe storage.
The EU’s mercury strategy is a comprehensive plan addressing mercury pollution both in the EU and globally. It contains 20 measures to reduce mercury emissions, cut supply and demand and protect against exposure, especially to methylmercury found in fish.
Mercury is a global pollutant and as such a specific mercury programme has been established in order to encourage all countries to adopt goals and take action, as appropriate, in order to identify vulnerable populations, minimise exposure through outreach efforts, and reduce human-generated mercury releases.
Mercury is controlled within migration of elements testing (EN71-3) and is a common brand specified test.
Eurofins | BLC Heavy Metals Testing in Products and Materials
Eurofins | BLC carry out a wide range of heavy metals testing on consumer products and materials, including:
View more information on heavy metal testing
Why choose Eurofins | BLC to conduct your mercury testing and analysis?
- One of the fastest testing laboratories in Europe
- Experts in chemical testing and compliance – over 95 years’ experience
- Technical support and guidance if and when failures occur
- Solutions to cleanse and reduce toxic chemicals from your supply chain
- Expert advice and solutions on legislation and supply chain compliance
- Access to chemical supply chain specifications