Business Disposal
Recycling lamps
Storing, packing and transporting lamps
Costs
Because fluorescent lamps contain mercury, it is illegal to put spent lamps in the garbage or trash in King County. This applies to households, contractors and businesses. Lamps must be recycled as Universal Waste or managed as hazardous waste (see Regulations).
When lamps are broken, compacted or disposed in the wrong places, they can release mercury, posing a threat to human health and the environment.
Recycling lamps
There are a number of recycling options. Costs depend on the quantities of lamps, types of lamps and how far they are shipped. Options include shipping lamps, mailing them, or dropping them off at local collection points.
Lamp recycling facilities. Contact the facility or a broker to arrange transport. Many facilities provide mail-in containers.
Take It Back Network. Local Network participants (retailers) accept fluorescent bulbs and tubes on a drop-off basis. Call ahead to verify acceptance policies, fees and hours of operation.
Distributors. Some lighting/electrical suppliers collect lamps on a drop-off basis. Check with the supplier.
Hazardous Waste Management Companies: Companies that transport and manage hazardous wastes often handle fluorescent lamps.
Contractors: Property management firms, cleaning companies and electrical contractors often dispose of spent fluorescent lamps. These 'subcontractors' must comply with disposal regulations.
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Storing, packing and transporting lamps
- Put spent fluorescent lamps in original cartons, if possible, with no tape or packing material.
- Try not to break lamps.
- For large quantities, stack cartons on pallets and shrink-wrap.
- Store cartons in a dry place and label the boxes with "Universal Waste – Lamps” or "Used Lamps" and the date accumulation began.
- Send lamps to the recycler within one year.
- Use a bill of lading and a label reading "Used Lamps" on the outside of the container.
- Save recycling certificates and invoices or bills of lading.
Lamp recyclers that offer a mail-in option typically provide 4-foot or 8-foot containers that can be sent via UPS.
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Costs
Recycling costs depend on the type of lamp, quantities and whether transportation is included. It's best to call several firms for quotes. For example, tubes can cost from 8 - 15 cents per linear foot (or 32 - 60 cents for a 4-foot lamp), while compact fluorescent lamps cost $0.50 - $1.00 each.
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