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Comus International is a world wide manufacturer and distributor of metal tilt switches, proximity sensors and floats, some of which utilize mercury in their design. In 1995, Comus began implementing the Mercury Recovery Program in an effort to ensure that mercury, which can be harmful to the environment if not properly disposed of, is safely secured and recycled. Now a state authorized recovery site for products containing mercury, Comus has used it’s expertise in the field to promote the Mercury Recovery Program. This program which has proven to be successful, attracting state-wide participants to unite their efforts for this cause.HOW IT WORKS… The program is simple. Comus provides a plastic shipping container to distributors who then use it to store discarded thermostats or other mercury containing components. Once the container is full, it is sealed and shipped directly to Comus, at no cost to the distributor. When Comus receives the container, it’s contents are emptied and it is immediately returned to the distributor. The Mercury switches are removed from the components and once a sufficient amount of mercury switches are accumulated, it is then shipped to Bethlehem Apparatus in Pennsylvania. At this facility, a process called retorting is performed where the mercury is extracted from the switches. This mercury is then cleaned, reprocessed, and shipped back to Comus for re-use. The program also involves the replacement of automotive mercury switches with non-mercury components. Non-mercury replacement switches can be purchased by city or state program directors directly from Comus International. HOW TO PARTICIPATE… Arranging to participate in Mercury Recovery is easy. If you have questions about the program or have inquiries about products that contain mercury other than thermostats, please contact Robert P. Romano at Comus International.
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