PCBs in Paints - Information and Removal

PCBs (polychlorinated biphenyls) were used in paint formulations as drying oils (resins) and plasticizers or softening agents (liquids).

• The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulates most PCBs. PCBs in applied dried paint or varnishes are classified as PCB Bulk Product Waste.
• Ecology regulates PCBs equal to or greater than 100 parts per million as Halogenated Organic Compounds, which are included in the state Persistent Criteria dangerous wastes.

Concrete surfaces and equipment, as well as marine or waterproofing applications, used at Federal installations and in the manufacturing and industrial sectors may have painted surfaces contaminated with PCBs.

Data provided to EPA indicate that PCBs have been found in dried paint at concentrations that range from leas than 1 part per million to 97,000 parts per million (Refs. 9 and 13)." From Use Authorization for and Distribution in Commerce of Non-Liquid Polychlorinated Biphenyls; Notice of Availability; Partial Reopening of Comment Period - Proposed Rule, December 10, 1999

Source: www.ecy.wa.gov/programs/hwtr/demodebris/pages2/demopaint.html

The Mack Group, LLC provides nationwide asbestos removal, removal of PCB contaminated building materials (caulk, rooffing paints, ballasts, etc.) and concrete surface preparation. For more information visit www.mackgrp.com