Assistance With PCB Exposure Available from EPA

On September 25, the EPA issued a press release offering guidance to school administrators and building owners to lessen exposure to PCBs (Polychlorinated Biphenyls) found in caulk of old buildings constructed or renovated between 1950 and 1978.  PCBs have long been banned, but still pose a potential threat to public health.  "We're concerned about the potential risks associated with exposure to these PCBs and we're recommending practical, common sense steps to reduce this exposure as we improve our understanding of the science," says EPA Administrator Lisa P. Jackson. The EPA states that PCBs have a high range of toxicity and do not easily break down, remaining for long periods of time in air, water, and soil.  PCBs have a variety of effects on the immune system, reproductive system, nervous system, endocrine system, and have been shown to cause cancer. The EPA created website with information regarding PCBs, exposure control, and has set up a hotline (1-888-835-5372) for those seeking further assistance.  Local EPA PCB Coordinators are available to assist with PCB clean up and program enforcement.  For more information, visit www.epa.gov/pcbsincaulk/.  To view the EPA's press release on PCBs, click here.