Comprehensive Occupational and Environmental Risk Assessment of Elemental Mercury at the Edison National Historic Site in West Orange, NJ

The Thomas A. Edison National Laboratory in West Orange, NJ was used to research and develop many inventions including experiments with a mercury oxide battery. Historical letter from Ms. Kellogg to Thomas Edison in 1884 reported the outcome of using mercury while conducting research. Preliminary test results showed spread of some contamination to artifact throughout the laboratory but the majority of the mercury was confined to a specific area of the lab. Spillage of elemental mercury in the Small Dry Cell Lab on the third floor of Building 5 leaked through the floor and ceiling on the second floor below. A comprehensive preliminary site risk assessment was conducted to evaluate the location and extent of the mercury contamination. Remediation work was conducted to remove the wood floor and ceiling but the work plan and health and safety plan for the project was inadequate. Workers were exposed to elevated levels of mercury vapor. Changes were made to reduce the risk and occupational exposure. The work was accomplished successfully without mercury poisioning after implementing more elaborate engineering and administrative controls.