What are PCBs?

PCBs were 5th on the list of hazardous substances in 2001 according to Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA). PCB's are a class of chemicals known as polychlorinated biphenyls. They are entirely man-made and manufactured commercially in 1929. They were used in many different types of products including hydraulic fluid, casting wax, pigments, carbonless copy paper, plasticizer, vacuum pumps, compressors, heat transfer systems and others. Because of their stability and resistance to thermal breakdown as well as their insulating properties they were the fluid of choice for transformers and capacitors. Due to their fire resistance, they were required by some fire codes.

During the 1970's, people became aware of health risks associated with PCB's. Among the health affects of PCB's are skin ailments, reproductive disorders, liver disease and others. PCB's are a suspected human carcinogen and a known animal carcinogen. Due to their resistance, PCBs persist for many years in the environment. Additionaly, PCBs bioaccumulate in the foodchain and are stored in the body fat of animals and humans.

Due to the environmental and human health risks involved with PCBs, the EPA banned PCB production in 1978. 

PCBs have contaminated rivers, oceans, soils across the world.  In fact, traces of PCBs have been found in the polor ice cap. Due to the extensive amounts of PCB contamination wildlife have become contaminated.  Fishing bans, advisories, and warnings have been distributed.

For more information related to recent health issues and risks pertaining to the Great Lakes basin, including summaries, reports, and beach closings, click here.