MONTREAL – PCBs, known as Polychlorinated biphenyls or chlorobiphenyls, are man-made chemicals originally used as insulants and coolants for transformers, heat exchangers, electric motors and many other kinds of electrical equipment.
They were commercialized in North America back in 1929 because of their non-flammability, chemical stability, high boiling point and electrical insulating properties.
According to Environment Canada, PCBs were never manufactured in Canada, but they were used widely across the country up until the late 1970s.
Concerns about PCBs are based on the level of toxic compounds in the chemical, especially environmentally, as they do not break down right away and can stay active for long periods of time in air, water and soil.
They have been classified as a persistent organic pollutant, causing harm mostly in water-based ecosystems.
Due to this, the Canadian government eliminated PCBs from circulation in the country, making it illegal in 1977.
Releasing the chemical into the environment was deemed illegal in 1985.
However, Environment Canada states that Canadian legislation has allowed owners of PCB equipment to continue using it “until the end of its service life” as long as its storage, handling, transport and destruction was regulated.
Nevertheless, Environment Canada states “the large reductions in PCB inventories since the implementation of regulatory controls, releases of PCBs to the environment through spills and fires continue to occur.”
They say they are concerned that the elimination of PCBs from Canada may not be going fast enough and have already petitioned for specific dates to be set for the elimination of the chemical across the country.
Common uses: PCBs may still be present in products produced before the 1977 ban.
- Transformers and capacitors
- Other electrical equipment (voltage regulators, switches, reclosers, bushings and electromagnets)
- Oil used in motors and hydraulic systems
- Old electrical devices or appliances containing PCB capacitors
- Fluorescent light ballasts
- Cable insulation
- Thermal insulation material including fiberglass, felt, foam, and cork
- Adhesives and tapes
- Oil-based paint
- Caulking
- Plastics
- Carbonless copy paper
- Floor finish
Read more: Pointe-Claire company allegedly storing PCB’s illegally
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