Labeling Alternative #ALT-0257
Mercury-Added Lamps

Mercury-Added Lamp Manufacturers

This alternative applies to the labeling of mercury-added lamps. This includes lamps such as fluorescent lamps, compact fluorescent, high intensity discharge, etc., where mercury has been intentionally added and is necessary for the function of the lamp.

The Agency has approved a lamp labeling alternative that may be used by any manufacturer of mercury-added lamps as indicated above.

Note: This alternative is approved until March 1, 2005.

To utilize the approved alternative, labeling must be as follows:

1. The lamp is labeled with the words:

CONTAINS MERCURY
(All UPPERCASE minimum 8 pt. font)

- Or -

Contains Mercury
(Upper & lower case minimum 10 pt. font)

2. The label must be durable to last the life of the product, which may include etching, ink stamp, or other forms of permanent labeling. A lamp cannot be labeled with a label that can or must be removed in order for the lamp to properly function.
3. The package label must include wording to appropriately inform the user of end-of-life disposal requirements. Below are examples of minimum wording requirements. Other wording included on the package label can be considered upon review.
   
   Examples:

"Contains Mercury, Don't Put In Trash.
Recycle or Dispose as Hazardous Waste"

"Contains Mercury, Dispose According to
Local, State or Federal Laws"

"Contains Mercury, Dispose of Properly"

Additional Guidance

If you manufacture a mercury-added lamp and wish to utilize this alternative, you need to reference it in your Certified Labeling Plan. When completing your plan, indicate the alternative number #0257 in the column marked (ALT#).

If you are unsure whether your product qualifies for this alternative or need any assistance in completing your plan, please contact Karen Knaebel at (802) 241-3455.