EPA Publishes Guidance, Offers Assistance To Prevent PCB Exposure

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has released guidance for contractors and maintenance personnel working in older buildings, constructed or renovated between 1950 and 1978, that may contain PCB-contaminated (Polychlorinated Biphenyls) caulk and masonry materials.  EPA is currently conducting new research to better understand the risks posed by caulk containing PCBs. EPA recently launched a Web site with information regarding PCBs and exposure control practices, including information specific to contractors on how to handle PCBs in caulk during renovations.  The Agency has also set up a hotline (1-888-835-5372) for anyone seeking additional technical guidance.  Local EPA PCB Coordinators are available to assist with PCB clean up efforts. PCBs have long been banned, but still pose a potential threat to public health. 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.  As such, high levels of PCBs are present in many buildings and facilities constructed prior to the PCB ban.  EPA is concerned about the potential risks associated with exposure to these PCBs and it is recommending immediate steps to reduce this exposure, as the Agency continues to improve its understanding of the science. For more information on how to properly test for and address PCBs in caulk, contact the Regional PCB Coordinator for your state. For more detailed information on renovation and removal, go to www.epa.gov/pcbsincaulk or call EPA's PCBs in Caulk Hotline at 1-888-835-5372.