POLYCHLORINATED BIPHENYLS (PCB's)

PCB's were used as dielectrics in power factor correction capacitors and transformers from about 1959 to 1978, it is thought that up to 1,800 transformers and 450,000 capacitors containing PCB's still exist.

By 1978 it was recognised that, due to their persistence and penetration, PCB's were hazardous to health and to the environment. Accordingly, in 1990, UK and other North Sea States agreed to phase out and destroy PCB's by the end of 1999. UK regulations were issued for consultation in February 2000 with comments required by 3rd March.

The Environmental Protection (Disposal of Polychlorinated Biphenyls.....) Regulations 2000 became law on the 4th May 2000.

Under these  regulations, large transformers may be decontaminated and retained to the end of their useful life (provided they are registered with the Environment Agency) but capacitors must be taken out of service and destroyed, by an approved, registered operator, by 31st December 2000 and a disposal certificate obtained.

IDENTIFICATION: we maintain lists of relevant manufacturers' serial numbers.

DISCONNECTION: by electrically competent persons.

REMOVAL FROM SITE: by HazChem registered transport contractors.

DESTRUCTION: by registered disposal plant operators, including issue of disposal certificates. Disposal costs depend on weight but a guide would be £4.00 per KVAr plus £25.00 for issue of a disposal certificate.

REPLACEMENT: we offer free power factor surveys to advise on correction costs and savings. Our service includes supply, installation, commissioning and maintenance of power factor correction systems.