Absorption of liquid metallic mercury through the digestive tract is negligible. It can be absorbed through the skin, especially in the presence of dermatitis, an abrasion, or a wound. Effects of mercury on health Vapours that are inhaled are rapidly transported by the blood to various organs in the body.
Mercury accumulates mostly in the kidneys and the brain.
Mercury is eliminated from the body mainly through stool and urine. It is also excreted in breast milk. Preventive measures At source Replace mercury with a less harmful product Use instruments that do not contain mercury. Electronic thermometer Modify production processes. In the work environment Ensure that the walls and floor are smooth and non-porous since mercury tends to fragment into smaller and smaller droplets as soon as it is moved and can find itself jammed into floor grooves or encrusted into porous joints.