eesakiwi - 99% of reed relay/switches would be no problem for you, me are anyone to "crack open", it's the 1% or less that have warnings labels like "Do Not Open", "Warning Contains Mercury" or just "Contains Hg". All wetted mercury reed relays that I have encountered are clearly labeled. Mercury containing relays are not common, but then again if you scrap enough circuit boards, sooner or later you will find them.
Here are the guidelines for handling and proper recycling or disposal of wetted mercury relay/switches:
Under no circumstance should a mercury relay be opened or disassembled. If accidental breakage or crushing occurs causing mercury leakage, restrict access to the area and contact your company safety officer and or your local Department of Environmental Conservation.
After life disposal, mercury wetted relays must be recycled or disposed of as hazardous waste and in compliance with Federal, State and Local regulations. In some States mercury wetted relays fall under the policies for "universal waste" which simplify the process. Contact your States environmental department or the US EPA for specific information for your location.
The two disposal options are, direct shipment as "Universal Waste" to a mercury recycling facility or Shipment through a hazardous waste transporter to a proper destination facility.
Companies specializing in recycling or disposal of mercury waste can be found on the World Wide Web. Your States department of Hazardous Waste is also a good source of information.
There always a right way, a wrong way and acceptable way, I prefer the healthy way always!
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