Mercury spills at school or home can pose severe health and environmental dangers. When a spill occurs, the health of students and the surrounding community can be at risk. Even small spills must be cleaned up specially trained individuals. The school may be closed several days during cleanup and the cost of cleaning up a spill can run into the thousands. Liability issues may also arise and a lawsuit may even be filed.

Broken thermometers in science class, a student mishandling elemental mercury, or improperly functioning medical equipment can result in serious health and environment problems. Mercury spills inside the home can also be serious if the spill is not properly managed.