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PROBLEM LIKELY CAUSE RESOLUTION
Air Bubble in • Insufficient amount • Add mercury by following the instructions
cartridge tube of mercury in this manual
during inflation • Air trapped in • To remove trapped air, tap reservoir while
reservoir system is inflated
Blood Pressure • Excessive deflation • Be sure to deflate the inflation system at
Reading seems High rate the recommended rate of 2-3mmHg/sec
• Air flow blockage • Change top cap filter
• Clean or replace mercury
Blood Pressure • Mercury level low • Add mercury
Reading seems Low
Dirty cartridge tube • Mercury has oxidized • Clean tube in accordance with enclosed
leaving a silver gray instructions
residue
Mercury bouncing in • Filters need • Change top cap filter
tube during inflation replacements
or deflation
Mercury drops • Leak at seals • Make sure cartridge tube is securely seated
appear outside the • Replace silicone gaskets at top and bottom
top or bottom of the of tube
cartridge tube
Mercury rises or • Air flow blockage • Change top cap filter
falls slowly • Clean tube in accordance with enclosed
instructions
JUST IN CASE . . .
ADC GUIDELINES
for the Proper
Maintenance,
Handling, Cleanup,
and
Mercury separates in • Excessive deflation • Be sure to deflate the inflation system at
tube during deflation rate the recommended rate of 2-3mmHg/sec
• Trapped air • To remove trapped air, tap reservoir while
system is inflated
Consult this manual for basic service
To Register Your Product, visit us
at www.adctoday.com
and follow the links
and maintenance procedures mentioned
in this troubleshooting guide.
If any of the problems persist, contact
ADC’s Customer Service Department
Toll-Free at 1-800-ADC-2670.
IB p/n: 9353B-00 - rev 4
Transportation
of
Mercurial Blood
Pressure Devices
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INTRODUCTION
Thank you for choosing an ADC DIAGNOSTIX™Mercury Sphygmomanometer. We’re
proud of the care and quality that goes into the manufacture of each and every
blood pressure instrument that bears our name.
Only the finest materials are used to assure you of a timeless instrument designed
for optimum, safe performance. You’ll quickly appreciate the results for you now
own the most intelligently designed, feature-rich mercurial sphygmomanometer that
money can buy.
With proper care and maintenance your ADC DIAGNOSTIX
manometer is sure to provide you with many years of dependable service. This brochure
answers the most frequently asked questions about these instruments, how to maintain them, and what to do in the unlikely event that a mercury spill should occur.
Please read this manual thoroughly and retain for future reference.
PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE
Because the mercury units do not rely on moving parts such as metal bellows,
diaphragms, gears, or other sources of mechanical wear, only an occasional inspection of the instrument is recommended.
A regular program of preventive maintenance will extend the life of your sphygmomanometer. The program should include the following simple inspection steps:
1. The mercury level in the graduated plastic tube should be at the “0”
calibration mark with the inflation system disconnected and the mercury unit in
a vertical position.
Note: If the mercury level is below “0”, readings over the entire scale will vary only the
difference between the mercury level and the “0” calibration.
2. Airflow should be tested by partially inflating the instrument to observe the
rising column of mercury, and then slowly deflating - stopping the column at
several points - to observe the falling column.
The diaphragm filter should be replaced if the mercury does not rise easily in
the tube, or if the mercury column bounces noticeably.
Note: The diaphragm filter is designed to dampen oscillations of the mercury during
inflation and deflation while preventing escape of the mercury. If clogged due to
accidental over inflation, it may require replacement.
3. The graduated plastic tube should be clean. If it is streaked with mercury which
has oxidized, the tube and mercury should be cleaned as described in this booklet.
4. The inflation system, consisting of the ADCUFF
ADFLOW™valve can be tested for air leaks.
™
Mercury Sphygmo -
™
, inflation bladder, bulb, and
with another twist tie or rubber band closure.
5. Place the double polybagged and wrapped unit inside the packing case,
or inner carton.
6. Arrange some cushioning bags or more bubble wrap around the mercurial
unit to protect it from excessive shifting.
7. If returning two or three mercurial units, repeat steps 1-6 as necessary. We
suggest packaging each of the mercurial units in separate inner cartons that
can fit into the packing case.
8. Seal the packing case closed with a strip of adhesive tape. Carefully place the
specially authorized return address label to the top of the box.
9. Ship via UPS Prepaid Ground Service ONLY. No other carriers are authorized
use for safe return of mercury instruments.
What is a Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS)? Why do I need it and how do I
get one?
A MSDS sheet is required by OSHA. All medical locations require you keep it on
file. A MSDS provides you with information about mercury, and what protective measures you have to do for your safety. Your ADC dealer will provide you with the
MSDS upon request.
ADC PROBLEM SOLVING GUIDE
Questions or Comments Call Toll-Free
1-800-ADC-2670
www.adctoday.com
The information contained within this guide is provided in good faith and is believed
to be correct as of the date published. ADC makes no representation as to the completeness or accuracy of the information. It is understood that the person receiving this
information will use good judgement to determine proper actions to be taken. Information contained within does not provide any warranties, expressed or implied.
REPAIRING MERCURY LEAKS
If a mercury leak exists at the top or bottom of the plastic tube, the silicone rubber
washers, which provide a seat for the ends of the plastic tube, should be replaced.
Remove the cartridge tube. Then use a small screwdriver to remove the old silicone
rubber washers, and replace with correct size new washer. Replace the graduated
plastic tube.
If a mercury leak exists at the bottom of the reservoir, see the following section
“How to Clean or Replace Mercury,” which includes steps for replacement of the
reservoir gasket.
After a mercury leak has been repaired, check the level of the mercury meniscus (the
top rim of the mercury column in the plastic tube). If it is below the “0” calibration, add
enough mercury to bring it up to the correct level. This is done by unscrewing the
knurled chrome cap at the top of the plastic tube and pouring a small amount of
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mercury and damaged ADC DIAGNOSTIX™instrument. Please call our customer service
department toll free at 1-800-ADC-2670. They will send you out a complete mercury return
kit p/n 985 along with detailed instructions on the proper packing and return of the damaged instrument and collected mercury.
mercury into the tube with the help of a small paper cone or funnel. The instrument
is then tipped in the direction of the reservoir and returned to a vertical position
before the new mercury level is observed. Repeat the process as necessary to bring
the mercury up to the “0” calibration mark.
How do I return a broken unit?
Regardless of whether or not the unit is intact (no mercury leakage) it may be
returned to ADC for service via UPS only (USPS does not authorize shipment of mercury). When returning an intact mercurial unit, be sure to include a note listing your
name, address, daytime phone number, and symptoms of the unit. When packing mercurial units for transport, be sure to follow the instructions in the “Packing and Shipping”
section below.
HOW TO CLEAN OR REPLACE MERCURY
When removing the mercury from an instrument we strongly suggest you wear
disposable rubber gloves and goggles. Be sure to remove all jewelry. Also, an inexpensive plastic storage box makes an excellent portable work station. Unscrew the
knurled cap at the top of the graduated plastic tube. Then carefully pour all the mercury
into a paper cup or glass container and tap reservoir in order to get all the mercury
out of the reservoir.
Roll a small cone of ordinary copy paper, leaving a small opening at the end of the
Send to:
ADC
Attn: Service Department
55 Commerce Drive, Hauppauge, NY 11788
If the unit is damaged and mercury has leaked, please call our customer service
department at 1-800-ADC-2670. We will be happy to send you a complete mercury
return kit, part number 985 with instructions on the safe transportation of the
product. Please note that the mercury return kit is NOT necessary but is provided as
a convenience. If you choose not to use an ADC return kit, you will need a leakproof, sealable 3 mil plastic bag (for each unit), rubber bands/twist ties/fasteners, a
200 test corrugated carton, and the appropriate shipping labels. Only the manometer
itself and not the inflation system (cuff, connectors, bulb and valve), wall brackets, or
mobile base (depending upon the unit) need be returned. Please be sure to follow
the instructions for shipment in the “Packing and Shipping Instructions” section
below.
Note: We can only accept the return of ADC ’s DIAGNOSTIX™ mercurial instruments
for repair services.
cone, and pour the mercury through this cone into another clean paper cup or glass
container. Repeat a few times. Residue will adhere to paper.
Remove the graduated plastic cartridge tube and clean it. The bore of the tube may be
easily cleaned with alcohol and a lint free pipe brush. The outside of the tube should also
be cleaned occasionally by wiping with a damp cloth.
Replace the graduated plastic tube and return the clean mercury to the instrument
through the opening at the top of the tube, using the paper cone described above.
Check the mercury level - it should be at the “0” line on the plastic tube with the
inflation system disconnected and the instrument in its correct position (vertical for
desk or wall mount models, 15° incline for mobile instruments). If some mercury has
been lost, add enough (through the top of the plastic tube) to bring the rim of the
mercury meniscus to the “0” calibration mark. Then replace the knurled cap at the top
of the graduated plastic tube, and screw it down firmly.
REMOVING THE GRADUATED PLASTIC TUBE
™
ADC’s EZ-Tube
system facilitates removal of the 5mm graduated plastic cartridge
tube. To remove, follow these steps:
1. Force mercury out of the cartridge tube by tilting instrument TOWARDS reservoir
PACKING AND SHIPPING INSTRUCTIONS
Important Note: Failure to follow the proper packing and shipping instructions below
for mercurial return kits could result in mercury leakage during transit. The shipper will
be responsible for all costs associated with cleaning mercurial spills that were caused
by improper packaging and shipping methods.
You will be sealing each mercury unit in TWO polybags with bubble wrap in
between. Only pack a MAXIMUM of 3 units per return. (Assorted styles are acceptable) It is very important to note that the Department of Transportation (HAZMAT)
requirements will require special caution labels for any boxes that contain 1 pound
or more of mercury. Three mercurial units are below this 1 pound requirement, and
do not require any additional labeling.
1. Remove the inflation system, basket(s), rod, and base from all mercurial
units before packing and dispose of in accordance with local regulations.
ADC will ONLY accept the main mercurial units for return.
2. Put ONE mercurial unit in a polybag and seal it with a twist tie or
rubber band closure.
3. Wrap bubble wrap around the mercurial unit and secure with adhesive
tape. This will help prevent the port connector from puncturing the
(to the right on 922, to the back on 932, 952, or 972).
Note: The 952 must first be removed from its swivel wall bracket.
2. Secure the mercury within the reservoir by moving the lock switch to the “Off”
position.
Note: Make sure all mercury is out of the cartridge tube.
™
3. Lift on the spring loaded EZ-Tube
mechanism located at the top of the
instrument (932, 952, 972). Tilt instrument forward to free tube. If necessary use a
small flathead screwdriver to help dislodge the top of the tube. On 922, remove
knurled top cap by turning counterclockwise. Remove tube, by sliding upward
until fully dislodged.
™
4. To replace tube, lift EZ-Tube
mechanism and insert base of tube into main
unit, being sure graduation marks face out. Next, position top of tube and
release EZ-Tube™mechanism. On 922 replace by sliding down through top cap
opening and position. Secure top cap by turning clockwise until tight. Be sure to
tighten thoroughly.
5. Unlock reservoir and tilt instrument AWAY from reservoir forcing mercury back
into tube.
6. Check for “0” point.
second polybag.
4. Enclose the wrapped mercurial unit in another polybag. Seal the polybag
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IF A MERCURY SPILL OCCURS . . .
As a convenience to our customers, a mercury spill kit may be obtained
directly from ADC by calling our customer service department toll-free at
FAQ (FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS)
Why use mercury?
Mercury (Hg) is a liquid metal with very stable performance characteristics. As such,
mercurial blood pressure devices remain the internationally recognized standard for
accuracy. Because there are no moving parts, springs, needles, casings, or other components that may become defective or wear with age, mercury instruments are inherently
the most reliable and accurate. With minimal care and maintenance, these instruments
should last a lifetime.
What is so special about DIAGNOSTIX™ mercury instruments?
Our exclusive Safety First
that provide you with a level of protection no other mercurial instrument can match.
Unbreakable graduated plastic cartridge tube. Designed from space age polymers, the
tube exhibits remarkable performance stability. It will not crack, craze, or shatter. Yellowing, a problem that plagued first generation plastic tubes, is all but gone. Tolerances to .1mm assure measurement repeatability.
Reservoir Locking Switch secures the mercury safely in the reservoir during routine
maintenance, cleaning, or transport.
EZ Tube
™
System simplifies the safe removal of the cartridge tube or top cap filters
for cleaning or maintenance without risking a spill.
Is Elemental Mercury dangerous?
Yes, it can be. Once vaporized, the lungs readily absorb elemental mercury from
inhaled air. High level acute doses and lower level chronic doses are both causes for
concern.
If accidentally ingested, very small amounts of elemental mercury will not be
absorbed by the digestive system and will be excreted.
Some forms of mercury COMPOUNDS (not the type used in blood pressure instruments) are highly toxic and particularly dangerous. These should NOT be confused
with elemental mercury.
Because there is so little actual mercury in a mercurial blood pressure instrument,
the exposure to a spill or leakage, if properly and promptly contained, will generally
pose little if any health risk.
DIAGNOSTIX
™
Blood Pressure instruments use less than 2 ounces of 99.9999% pure
elemental mercury.
What should I do in the event of a spill?
First, isolate the area to prevent further contamination or spread of the spilled liquid.
Spilled mercury should be picked up at once since the mercury will vaporize rapidly
and may contaminate the surrounding air.
Larger spills involving the entire contents of the mercury instrument (about 2 oz.) may
be cleaned up with a commercially made mercury suction pump. Do not dry sweep or
use ordinary vacuum cleaners on floors exposed to mercury spills since this may produce additional hazardous vapors.
In the unlikely event of a spill, it will most likely involve very small amounts of just
™
system incorporates a number of distinctive safety features
1-800-ADC-2670 (p/n 980SK).
Waste mercury should be placed in a tightly covered container and disposed of in
accordance with state and local environmental regulations.
As a convenience to our customers, we can help arrange returns to a waste reclamation facility. Contact our customer service department toll-free at 1-800-ADC-2670
for the necessary packaging supplies and return authorization.
Do not incinerate mercury or mercury compounds or dispose of down the drain.
Please note: Liquid mercury combines with many soft metals. Jewelry should be
removed prior to cleaning of instruments, or mercury spills. We also recommend the
wearing of latex gloves and protective eyewear when cleaning mercury spills.
What if a mercury spill should occur and I don’t have a spill kit?
Chances are that a spill kit is on the premises. Contact your building’s maintenance
department. However if you do not have one, they can be ordered from most laboratory safety supply houses. As a convenience to our customers, a basic spill kit can be
purchased directly from ADC. Call our customer service department toll-free at 1-800ADC-2670 and ask for ADC part number 980SK. We will be glad to rush one out to
you immediately.
Please note: As a precaution, we strongly recommend that you keep a mercury spill
kit on hand.
Doesn’t mercury spill all over the place?
A mercury spill can be cleaned up fairly easily. It rolls into one large bead. It can be
cleaned up with any commercially available mercury spill kit specifically designed for
this job. When spilled on a hard surface a simple soft bristled brush or a 3cc syringe
may even be used to collect very small amounts of mercury quickly and safely. Elemental mercury is a non-wetting liquid. It does not absorb into rugs or fabrics. It can
be removed quickly and completely from carpeted surfaces using a mercury
absorbent powder that reacts with mercury to form a harmless amalgam which can
then be easily contained.
Don’t I have to report mercury spills and put special hazardous markings on
the collection container?
No. Mercurial spills of less than one (1) pound are exempt from any Federal, State, or
local agency reporting requirements. According to DOT (Department of Transportation)
CR49. 173.164 no special markings of any kind are required when dealing with quantities
of LESS than 1 pound. ADC DIAGNOSTIX
™
instruments contain about 2 ounces of
99.9999% pure elemental mercury.
What should I do in the event of accidental eye contact with mercury?
Symptoms of eye exposure can include redness, pain, and watery eyes. If mercury contaminates the eyes, open the contaminated individual’s eyes while under gently running
water, using sufficient force to open eyelids. Have the contaminated individual “roll” their
eyes. Flush the contaminated individual’s eyes with running water for a minimum of 15
minutes and seek immediate medical attention.
a few drops of spilled mercury. These smaller amounts may be picked up with mercury
absorbent sponges or gently swept into a collection container using a soft bristled
DISPOSABLE brush. (Remember to dispose of the brush after use).
Carpet, crevices, and other difficult to clean areas may be cleaned using a mercury
absorbent powder that reacts with mercury to form a harmless amalgam.
The suction pump, sponges, and powder are available through laboratory and safety
supply companies.
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What do I do with the collected mercury and broken instrument?
You have two options. You can dispose of the collected mercury and damaged
instrument in accordance with your state and local environmental regulations. Your
facility may already have established procedures for the disposal of mercury products.
Or, as a convenience to our customers, you can return the waste
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