Medical facilities, because of the large variety of uses for mercury-containing equipment/items, have an increased responsibility for proper disposal and treatment of their mercury waste. One goal of medical mercury management programs is to replace mercury-containing devices with mercury-free alternatives. Currently, various states have proposed or enacted legislation or established voluntary programs focusing on mercury in medical facilities. There also are national and state organizations that promote mercury management and reduction strategies such as identifying and purchasing alternative products and materials with less or no mercury, recycling mercury and mercury-containing products and devices, and training.

Many states also are undertaking both regulatory and non-regulatory activities to ensure proper management of mercury-containing dental amalgam. For instance, various states have proposed or enacted legislation as well as set up voluntary programs that address the use and management of dental amalgam. In addition, some federal and national organizations have developed outreach materials to provide information exchange, training, and general education for the public and dental professionals.