Guide to Safe Fluorescent Lamp Disposal

Fluorescent lamps are distinctively recognisable by their long, tubular shape and their ability to produce bright, cool-white illumination through the process of fluorescence. Fluorescent lighting is being phased out in Singapore, as well as the rest of the world, in favour of LEDs for several reasons.

It’s crucial to understand the responsible disposal of these lamps, as they contain hazardous materials, primarily mercury, that can be harmful to both human health and the environment if not handled correctly. Care should be taken when handling lamps, as mercury is released when a lamp is broken.

Singapore is witnessing a growing demand for environmentally sustainable practices as part of its ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) framework. Responsible disposal of fluorescent tubes is directly relevant to the waste management aspect of the ESG.

In this guide, we’ll provide safe and sustainable options for fluorescent disposal.

Self Disposal

Disposal of fluorescent lamps includes careful planning, packing, and drop-off at a certified E-Waste collection point in Singapore. Be very careful to avoid breakage, as a broken lamp releases toxic fumes into the air.

Using bubble wrap, fabric, or similar cushioning material, wrap the glass portion of the lamp and secure with packing tape

Place the lamp into a thick cardboard box.

Ensure the lamp is immobile inside the box by padding the surrounding area with additional fabric, bubble wrap, or cushioning material.

Research in advance the designated E-Bins or E-Drives that will assist you in safely disposing of your fluorescent lamps.

Transport lamps to the designated E-Bins, avoid stacking heavy materials on top of lamps to avoid risk of breakage due to unforeseen risks such as collisions, falls, etc..

What to do if you Break a Fluorescent Lamp

Evacuate all people and air out the surrounding area, opening any doors and windows. Leave everything alone for at least 15 minutes.

Wearing gloves, pick up all large pieces of glass and use cardboard to assist you. Place all pieces inside another glass container (such as a jar) that can be sealed.

Using duct tape, press the tape into the ground to get remaining small glass fragments and powder. Dispose of tape inside of glass jar.

Wipe the area clean with disposable wet wipes. Place the wipes inside the glass jar and seal for disposal.

Transport the sealed glass jar to a designated hazardous waste E-Bin in Singapore.

LED Replacements for Outdated Fluorescent Lamps

Lim Kim Hai Electric is a proud partner of Philips, providing our customers with the top LED retrofitting solutions to replace outdated fluorescent lamps.

MASTER LEDtube

Ultra Efficient T8

Saves up to 70% in energy costs compared to fluorescent tubes
Ultra long lifetime of 100,000 hours
Less than 6 months payback time when upgrading from fluorescent tubes
5-year warranty

Master LEDtube T8

Uniform light effect
Robust construction
Fits in well with conventional technology
Fast and easy installation
High level energy efficiency

Master LEDtube Mains T5

Reduced operational cost thanks to lower energy consumption
Lower maintenance cost thanks to longer lifetime than conventional lamps
Fastest and easiest way to upgrade existing luminaires to LED technology; completely safe product and installation process
Long lifetime
No mercury
Energy savings compared with fluorescent tubes

Guide to Safe Fluorescent Lamp Disposal

Self Disposal

What to do if you Break a Fluorescent Lamp