The abbreviation "PCB" refers to polychlorinated biphenyls -- a group of man-made chemicals containing 209 individual compounds with varying degrees of toxicity (see chart below for examples of synonyms and trade names commonly used for PCBs). Because of their insulating and nonflammable properties, PCBs have been widely used as coolants and lubricants in transformers, capacitors, and other electrical equipment on utility poles and in buildings. They are also present in fluorescent light ballasts and heat transfer systems, in hydraulic fluids, lubricating oils, wood preservatives, paints, printing inks, cutting oils, fire retardents, plasticizers, adhesives and other products. While PCBs appeared widely beneficial for use in a great variety of products, their manufacture in the United States was banned in October of 1977 because of mounting evidence of PCB accumulation in the environment and concern over the health hazards they pose for humans.

Do These Regulations Apply to Your Community?

Yes, if your local government uses or disposes of PCB-containing equipment or substances, these regulations apply to you. Local governments should be particularly sensitive to PCB risks from equipment or supplies for road work, vehicle maintenance, air conditioning, heating and the operation of electric utilities.

Actions Your Community Should Be Taking

PCB wastes at concentrations of 50 ppm (parts-per-million) and above are strictly regulated. Regulated PCB wastes must be disposed of in either a chemical waste landfill, by incineration, or by an alternate approved technology. Local government officials should be aware of existing PCB regulations, including:

• requirements regarding disposal of PCBs and PCB-containing materials (as well as the technical requirements for incinerators and landfills that perform such disposal);
• PCB storage and labeling requirements; and
• the associated reporting and recordkeeping requirements.

Keep in mind, however, that EPA has taken steps to ease some of the regulatory burdens associated with PCBs -- a proposed rule issued in December of 1994 would change many of the existing PCB regulations, and would provide greater flexibility in managing PCBs.

Handling and Storage Requirements

Anyone working with PCBs should be trained in the proper handling and storage of PCBs. PCBs should be stored in tightly closed containers in a cool, well-ventilated area away from strong oxidizers such as chlorine, bromine, and fluorine. PCBs should be handled only in an established, controlled, and regulated area.

Spills and Emergencies

If PCBs are spilled or have leaked from their container, take the following steps:

• Restrict persons not wearing protective equipment from the area of the spill or leak until clean-up is complete.
• Ventilate the area of the spill or leak.
• Absorb spilled or leaked liquids in vermiculite, dry sand, earth, or a similar material and deposit in a sealed container.
• Collect absorbed PCB-containing material in the most convenient and safe manner and deposit in a sealed container.
• Contact your state environmental program or EPA regional office for additional specific requirements or recommendations.

For releases of one or more pounds of PCBs call your fire department immediately, and contact the National Response Center at 1/800/424-8802.

If fire breaks out as a result of a spill or a leak, use dry chemical, CO2, water spray or foam extinguishers. While PCBs may burn, they do not readily ignite -- be aware that they do, however, release toxic gases. Be sure that all buildings in which PCBs are stored are properly posted so that firemen will be aware of their presence, and be sure that your employees are properly trained and equipped if they are expected to fight PCB fires.

Additional Information

The federal PCB regulations are published at 40 Code of Federal Regulations, Part 761. The proposed changes to the PCB regulations are published at 59 Federal Register 62788.

For additional information, contact the Toxic Substances Control Act Hotline: Hours: 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. EST, Monday-Friday
Telephone: 202/554-1404
TDD: 202/554-0551
On-line service modem: 202/554-5603 Synonyms and Trade Names Used for PCBs

* Askarel is also the generic term used for nonflammable insulating liquid in transformers and capacitors.