Thermometers
Older thermometers often contain mercury. Mercury is a dangerous substance and the disposal or sale of mercury thermometers is covered by hazardous waste restrictions.
Page 8 and 9 says
Waste Management
Measuring devices containing mercury are classed as hazardous waste. If you want to dispose of measuring devices that contain mercury, you will need to have them removed by a registered waste carrier to a permitted waste disposal site. Please be aware that we do not endorse any particular disposal process or disposal contractor.
Domestic mercury waste
Mercury should not be disposed of in household waste.
If you are a householder, your local authority can advise you on how and where to dispose of your waste measuring devices. Alternatively, search business directories for hazardous waste disposal contractors.
The following links may be useful. www.gov.uk – search for ‘hazardous waste’ and/or ‘household waste’
There are exemptions for devices over 50 years old, but unless there are indications that the thermometers offered or requested are not working or will be used for purposes other than measuring, they should be fine to be accepted.
Link: Specific Items
