How to Identify PCB Ballasts
Polychlorinated biphenyls, or PCBs, are hazardous organic compounds once commonly used in the production of fluorescent ballasts. They are federally mandated hazardous waste, and the Toxic Substances Control Act bans their production. Find out if your ballast contains PCBs to ensure proper handling and disposal. Gathering information about the type of ballast and its date of production can help to determine the presence of the hazardous compounds.
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Read the label to rule out PCBs. Some ballasts specifically say they contain no PCBs. This is the only way to determine that your ballast does not contain PCBs. Because many ballasts do contain the hazardous compounds, assume they are present if the label does not specifically say "no PCBs."
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See if your ballast is electronic or magnetic by checking the label and observing the type of light fixture it was in. Electronic ballasts are newer technology and found in T5 and T8 fluorescent light fixtures and in retrofitted T12 fixtures. Electronic ballasts do not contain PCBs or any other hazardous materials. Magnetic ballasts, on the other hand, are outdated technology and commonly contain PCBs.
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Check the ballast's manufacturing date. If you know the ballast was installed or manufactured before 1978, it most likely contains PCBs. Ballasts were commonly produced containing PCBs before their ban in 1978.
References
Warnings
- Leaking PCB ballasts must be disposed of at U.S. Environmental Protection Agency-approved incineration sites. Contact the agency about the Toxic Substances Control Act at 202-554-1404.
- Ballasts containing PCBs are not suitable for disposal in landfills. Contact local recycling centers to ensure proper disposal.
Writer Bio
Kathleen Michelau is a professional writer who received the President's Scholarship for Journalism in 2002 and holds a Bachelor of Arts in journalism and philosophy from the University of Dayton. She is a Chicagoan who enjoys writing about home repair, hobbies and electronics.
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