Mercury is a naturally occurring heavy metal that has been linked to serious health problems in humans and wildlife when it ends up in the waste stream. When mercury-containing items are discarded, they are incinerated or put in landfills which results in the toxic metal making its way into the environment and the food chain. Mercury can be found in hospitals in the form of thermometers, sphygmomanometers, gastroesphogeal tubes (Cantor, Bougie), batteries, flourescent lamps, pressure gages and laboratory chemicals. There is minimal risk of exposure during normal use of these items when they are handled correctly. However, when the mercury is exposed to air, or is discarded improperly, it poses a danger to health and the environment.