Replacing mercury
The healthcare sector uses large amounts of medical devices such as thermometers and sphygmomanometers that contain mercury and other hazardous chemicals. The effects of these substances on the environment have been well-documented.
It’s a paradox that while the healthcare sector is committed to helping people, the tools it uses can negate the care it provides. Many hospitals have become more informed on the negative effects of using mercury. This knowledge has spurred them to seek alternatives to mercury.
Due, in part, to the efforts of HCWH-SEA, attitudes are shifting away from mercury on a national scale. Policies are also being implemented that promote more environmentally sound options. This shift is is in line with Administrative Order 21, which mandated the phase-out of all mercury-containing devices by 2010.