DCHAS-L Discussion List Archive

All:

The EPA established reference concentration for elemental mercury the most sensitive elements of the population is 200ng/cubic meter.  The Lumex instrument is the appropriate instrument to measure such levels, and can be used to determine the exposure of the general population in structures or at the perimeter of hazardous waste sites.   The Jerome instrument's level of detection is far higher and should only be used for industrial hygiene purposes.  The Lumex is quite expensive but your State or regional Department of Health or environmental agency may have one and  be able to help you in this matter since it's a school and a public health issue.   

The Environmental and Occupational Health Science Institute (EOHSI) at Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ may be able to advise you if a health evaluation is necessary after you determine the exposure levels which should be done STAT.  

The concentration of spilled Hg in the closed room varies directly with the ambient temperature so the room should be heated to it's normal temperature as when occupied, when you make the measurements. 

James P. De Noble
Bureau of Case Management
Site Remediation Program
New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection