School Emergency: Mercury Spill

Specialty Consulting, Inc. (SPC) was engaged to respond to a mercury spill at Marvin Camras Elementary School. Students were found in possession of a plastic bag containing elemental mercury, prompting immediate action. School staff conducted interviews to trace the source of the mercury and identify all involved students. The investigation revealed that the students had carried the bag to various locations within the school, including the cafeteria and classrooms, and even outside before the spill was discovered.

The mercury spill originated from a broken barometer in a science classroom, releasing an estimated 4 to 5 tablespoons of elemental mercury. An initial setback occurred when a sub-consultant used standard shop vacuums instead of specialized mercury vacuums, inadvertently spreading the mercury further throughout the affected rooms.

Further assessment identified significant contamination in a basin and associated pipes on the third-floor cafeteria, necessitating their removal. Access to the contaminated area was facilitated by setting up scaffolding in the gym below.

The unique challenges of this incident included managing widespread contamination across multiple locations and rectifying the sub-consultant's mishandling. The comprehensive response ensured thorough mercury remediation, safeguarding the health and safety of students and staff while restoring a safe school environment.