What action should not be taken during a mercury spillage in a dental practice?

Using a vacuum to collect mercury during a spillage is not a safe action. Mercury is a toxic substance that can vaporize and be inhaled, posing serious health risks. Traditional vacuums are not designed to handle hazardous materials like mercury, and their use may inadvertently aerosolize the mercury vapors, increasing the risk of exposure to toxic fumes.

In contrast, informing the relevant authorities ensures that the spill is appropriately managed by professionals trained to handle hazardous materials. Wearing protective gear is essential to safeguard against potential exposure during cleanup, while proper disposal of mercury waste is crucial for environmental safety and public health. Therefore, avoiding the use of vacuums is a key practice when managing a mercury spillage in dental settings.