> Poses a health hazard because it is volatile and can be absorbed through the skin. As a vapor, penetrates the central nervous system, where it is ionized and trapped, attributing to its extremely toxic effects. Is not well absorbed by the gastrointestinal tract; therefore, when ingested, it is only mildly toxic. Mercury metal and mercury compounds are highly hazardous if inhaled or if they remain on the skin for more than a short period of time.
Saying that CFLs are safe is different from saying that mercury isn't very toxic. There are plenty of compounds which are toxic and found in minute quantities in everyday objects. I'd rather educate people of the dangers.
That's a bad example.
From: http://www.ehs.gatech.edu/chemical/mercury_and_compounds.pdf
> Elemental mercury
> Poses a health hazard because it is volatile and can be absorbed through the skin. As a vapor, penetrates the central nervous system, where it is ionized and trapped, attributing to its extremely toxic effects. Is not well absorbed by the gastrointestinal tract; therefore, when ingested, it is only mildly toxic. Mercury metal and mercury compounds are highly hazardous if inhaled or if they remain on the skin for more than a short period of time.
Saying that CFLs are safe is different from saying that mercury isn't very toxic. There are plenty of compounds which are toxic and found in minute quantities in everyday objects. I'd rather educate people of the dangers.