Chemical
Mercury
CAS 7439-97-6 · EC 231-106-7 · Hg
Also known as quicksilver
- Signal word
- Danger
- CAS
- 7439-97-6
- EC number
- 231-106-7
- UK/EU status
- 2 rules
Handle chemistry safely
Wear gloves and eye protection, work with good ventilation, and read the supplier’s safety data sheet before use. Hazard information here is a summary, not a replacement for it. Dispose of all photographic chemistry correctly, in line with local laws and your local authority’s guidance. Never mix waste solutions, and check the supplier’s safety data sheet before disposing of anything.
Hazards
Official EU classification (CLP Annex VI).
Harmonised classes: Repr. 1B (H360D***); Acute Tox. 2 (Inhalation)* (H330); STOT RE 1 (H372**); Aquatic Acute 1 (H400); Aquatic Chronic 1 (H410). Asterisked codes in Annex VI denote a minimum classification or unspecified route.
Signal word: Danger
Serious health hazard · Acute toxicity · Hazardous to the environment
| Code | Hazard statement |
|---|---|
| H360D | May damage the unborn child. |
| H330 | Fatal if inhaled. |
| H372 | Causes damage to organs through prolonged or repeated exposure. |
| H400 | Very toxic to aquatic life. |
| H410 | Very toxic to aquatic life with long lasting effects. |
UK and EU rules
- UK Poisons Act 1972: REGULATED poison (mercury and its compounds) – EPP licence required for members of the public (GOV.UK list of chemicals, checked 10 October 2026)
- REACH Restriction List (Annex XVII): direct entry for mercury (ECHA CHEM, checked 14 October 2026)
Photographic uses
- daguerreotype development (historical)
- old camera batteries (mercury cells)