MSDS

September 2007 Compact Fluorescent Lamps-LMIS 3
IV. Disposal Concerns
TCLP
A Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure (TCLP) test conducted on traditional compact fluorescent
lamp designs for mercury could possibly cause the lamps to be classified as a hazardous waste due to
the mercury content or lead content (in the case of screw-based compact fluorescent lamps). While
small numbers of these lamps placed in ordinary trash may not appreciably affect the nature or
method of disposal of the trash, under many circumstances disposal of large quantities may be
regulated. Lamp recycling is recommended for large quantity disposal. Review your waste handling
practices to assure that lamps are disposed properly and contact your state environmental
department for any regulations that may apply. To check state regulations or to locate a recycler, go
to www.lamprecycle.org
. Reduced mercury pin-based compact fluorescent lamps that consistently
pass the TCLP test are available and marketed under the Ecolux trade name. For more information on
Ecolux fluorescent lamps visit www.gelighting.com
.
Electronic Ballast
Traditional electronic ballast designs for screw-based compact fluorescent lamps would most likely
fail the TCLP test for Lead. Dispose in accordance with local regulations; recycling is recommended for
large quantity disposal. Lead-free Ballasts sold in the European market meet the EC directive
2002/95/EC for ROHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances). Screw-based compact fluorescent lamps
designs with lead-free ballasts that will pass the TCLP test in North America are under development.
Plastic Material
The plastic material used in a compact fluorescent lamp can be recycled during the lamp recycling
process.