Which practice regarding mercury-containing instruments is recommended?

• A. Only use when necessary
• B. Store them separately
• C. Avoid purchasing them
• D. Purchase freely

Answer: (C)

Mercury is highly toxic, and mercury vapors can pose serious health and environmental risks even at low exposures. The safest approach is to avoid buying instruments that contain mercury, so you don’t introduce a hazardous material into the work environment or have to manage spills and disposal. Digital or mercury-free alternatives are widely available for most measurements, so choosing them reduces risk while still meeting analytical needs. Storing mercury devices separately doesn’t eliminate the hazard during use, transfer, or disposal, and using them only when necessary still keeps mercury in play. Purchasing them freely increases stock and the potential for accidents and improper handling. If legacy mercury equipment is already present, ensure proper spill response, ventilation, and waste disposal procedures.