1. Scope--Mercury capsules have been used in the automotive industry in various switching applications. The basic design and performance characteristics of mercury switches (or capsules) make these components particularly suited to underhood light and trunk light applications. The processes described in this SAE Standard deal with the location, removal, storage, and recycling of mercury switches and capsules associated with these underhood and trunk light applications.

1.1 Purpose--Mercury containing components should be removed from scrapped vehicles prior to crushing or shredding in order to recover the mercury and eliminate potential mercury release to the environment. Mercury containing components removed during repair or service must also be properly handled and ultimately recycled as well. Of the 10 million vehicles scrapped and recycled each year; approximately one third may contain mercury switches. Each of these underhood light or trunk light applications typically contain 0.8 to 1.0 g of mercury in a sealed capsule.

1.2 Caution--Mercury is a naturally occurring metal found in many different forms. It readily evaporates into the air, through a process called volatilization at normal temperatures and pressures, and may be eventually deposited back into soil and water through precipitation. Mercury is capable of bioaccumulating; which means it eventually may concentrate in the food chain where it can become toxic to plants, animals, and humans (Reference 2.1.2). It is therefore important that when following this document, one should always err to the safe side. When in doubt, assume the underhood light or trunk light contains a mercury capsule. If an attempt to reduce the size of the assembly is made for storage then do so only with common hand tools and avoid the use of power tools if possible.