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Questions & Answers - PCBs - Region 9 - Toxics - US EPA
Questions & Answers - PCBs - Region 9 - Toxics - US EPA
If the nameplate says "PCBs" or any of the names on the above list, then the transformer most likely contains PCBs. If the transformer's
nameplate does not have any of the above labels, or if the label is missing or illegible, the utility company may be able to tell if the transformer
contains PCBs. Otherwise the only way to be certain is to test the electrical fluid.
http://www.epa.gov/region9/pcbs/faq.html
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11/3/2014
health effects of exposure to hazardous substances (including PCBs), the Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA)
sets permissible exposure limits (PELs). PELs are regulatory limits on the amount or concentration of a substance in the air
is a global treaty to protect human health and the environment from Persistent Organic
Pollutants (POPs), including PCBs. POPs are chemicals that remain intact in the environment for long periods, become widely
distributed geographically, accumulate in the fatty tissue of living organisms and are toxic to humans and wildlife.
Do PCBs pose a potential hazard on the former Naval ships anchored in Region 9?
Out-of-service ships within Region 9 can contain PCBs and PCB-contaminated material. For vessels deployed before the 1979
PCB ban, PCBs may be found in both the solid (waxy) and liquid (oily) forms in equipment and materials onboard ships. The
equipment that may contain PCBs in concentrations of greater than or equal to 50 ppm include: cable insulation, rubber and felt
Some of these ships are considered for dismantling or use as artificial reefs. Ships containing PCBs and PCB contaminated
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materials, however, require regulatory guidance and cleanup before dismantling or use as an artificial reef.
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http://www.epa.gov/region9/pcbs/faq.html
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