A mercury vacuum cleaner should be designed to prevent generation of airborne mercury typically through the use of an activated carbon charcoal filter in addition to any particulate filters. The ends of hoses should be capped after each use; and after vacuuming, the area should be washed down. Users of mercury vacuum cleaners should be trained in the handling of hazardous materials.
To ensure safe operation, a mercury vacuum cleaner should be equipped with features that prevent mercury particles from becoming airborne, such as an activated carbon charcoal filter and particulate filters. Additionally, users should follow proper procedures for disposing of used hoses and cleaning the area after use, and receive training on handling hazardous materials.