Polychlorinated Biphenyls: Risks, Sources, and Labeling Requirements

Symptoms of PCB Exposure

In the 1930s, symptoms started emerging in workers in the form of painful black bubbling of the skin, sometimes resulting in liver failure without a known cause. Chemicals were unregulated and unsafe work conditions were the norm. Laws were not typically designed to protect the worker, and industry often won out over safety. Stricken workers were typically poor and didn't have money for treatment or investigation beyond the evident symptoms, if that.

What Health Risks Are Associated With PCB Hazards?

In 1976, the Toxic Substances Control Act was passed, which authorized the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to control substances it determined were unreasonably risky to public health. EPA evaluated studies and concluded that polychlorinated biphenyls cause cancer, suppress the immune system, cause learning deficits, and a host of other serious health issues. PCBs were finally banned in 1979.

After the 1979 ban, items that contained PCB that were disposed of improperly may have resulted in leaks. When these items are crushed, toxins are released into the soil and eventually the water supply. When burned, the toxins make their way into the air. PCBs contaminate rain and snowfall and travel great distances through rivers. PCB hazards accumulate in food crops and animals consumed by humans. Whether you work around PCBs or not, you may have been contaminated.

PCB-related health issues worsen when this toxin is released into the environment. The composition of PCB mixtures alters when it binds with soil or accumulates in animals. People who ingest contaminated fish or come into contact with contaminated soil face increased biphenyl hazards.

Though PCBs were banned more than three decades ago, this toxin is slow to degrade and we are still at risk.

Who Has the Greatest Risk of PCB Exposure?

Consumption of marine mammals, fish, or wildlife increases one's risk. A 39-mile river stretch in Green Bay, WI is estimated to contain over 51,000 pounds of PCBs. EPA declared the fish and waterfowl contaminated, and anyone eating them may suffer adverse health effects related to PCB hazards.

There is also a risk to workers that service pre-1979 electrical equipment or handle other equipment known to contain polychlorinated biphenyls. Even working in a building with such equipment can be risky. CDC found increased death counts from brain cancer and melanoma in some plants where workers were exposed to biphenyl hazards.

PCBs were also used in caulk, with concentrations up to 30%. EPA believes buildings constructed between 1950–1979 are at high risk of containing PCB-contaminated caulk.

What Can Be Done to Reduce Exposure to Polychlorinated Biphenyls?

Mercury, lead, DDT, arsenic, asbestos, PCBs... Life has become a chemical dodge, and it's a personal war to prevent stealth toxins from slowly stealing years from our lives. We can't fix the mistakes of the past, but we can minimize the hazards with these steps:

• When prepping fish, remove organs, skin, and fat, which is where PCBs are stored. Fish fat can be found in the belly, back, and dark meat along the side. Avoid frying or cooking into soup as this retains fat. Do not consume juices which collect during cooking. Do not eat soft green parts of crab or lobster. Fish that are the highest-risk to eat are those that eat other fish.
• When choosing meat or dairy, opt for low-fat organic options. Trim fat from meat prior to cooking and avoid frying. Do not consume juices which collect during cooking.
• Don't use treated or painted wood for fires nor burn any substances that could contain PCBs.
• Contractors working on public buildings constructed between 1950-1979 should test caulk prior to removal. If it tests positive, ensure toxins do not get released into the air by leaving it in place and following decontamination procedures.

What Are the Labeling Requirements for PCBs?

All equipment known to contain polychlorinated biphenyls must be marked. Approved PCB labels are outlined in 40 CFR Part 761.45. For any items that are large enough to accommodate a 6" x 6" label, a large mark (ML) label is required. Smaller items may utilize the Small Mark (MS) label, which can be created in a variety of sizes from 0.4" x 0.8" to 1" x 2". You can better understand what to expect by getting informed on PCB label examples and specifications.

How Are Polychlorinated Biphenyls Disposed Of?

Methods have been found to contain and neutralize PCBs. Numerous companies throughout the United States have been approved under the Toxic Substances Control Act to accept and/or dispose of the necessary waste included in the EPA-approved polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) disposal facilities list. These facilities are designed to treat everything from fluorescent lights to transformers; they include chemical waste landfills, scrap metal recovery ovens, and chemical dechlorination.

When Do Fluorescent Light Ballasts Require PCB Labeling?

Fluorescent light ballasts are at high risk for PCBs and in some cases, require labeling. Manifesting and labeling ARE required for performance-based disposal, per 40 CFR 761.62(a). They ARE NOT required for disposal in solid waste landfills, per 40 CFR 761.62(b). They MAY be required for risk-based disposal, which requires written application to the EPA region where storage shall take place, per 40 CFR 761.62(c). Review the various disposal types in 40 CFR 761.62.

Even when labeling is not required, records or optional labeling must show that the waste is less than one year old. In other words, they cannot simply be stored indefinitely without being appropriately assessed.

If the ballast was manufactured after July 2, 1979, regulations do not require you to label it as PCB-free. Labeling may be helpful for internal purposes so that the item is known to not require testing or PCB disposal.

If you don't know whether your ballasts contain PCBs, check the manufacturer and type to find out whether they were commonly made with PCBs. If you are unable to determine, you must assume that it does and use an approved PCB disposal process. It is crucial to understand the materials you may encounter in the workplace and have the appropriate signs and labels on materials. 

DuraLabel PCB Labeling and Compliance Resources

Managing polychlorinated biphenyls requires more than awareness—it depends on clear identification, proper labeling, and consistent documentation. Accurate labels help communicate PCB hazards quickly, reduce accidental exposure, and support safe handling during storage, maintenance, and disposal.

DuraLabel provides industrial labeling solutions designed for environments where biphenyl hazards may be present. With durable supplies and industrial sign and label systems, facilities can produce compliant PCB labels that remain legible through age, heat, and handling. When paired with LabelForge^® PRO Design Software, teams can create labels that meet EPA marking requirements and clearly identify equipment that contains or may contain PCBs.

For facilities working with legacy electrical equipment, lighting systems, or building materials from the 1950–1979 era, proper labeling supports compliance with 40 CFR Part 761 and helps protect workers from unintended exposure. Clear PCB labels also streamline inspections and support responsible disposal practices.

Have questions about PCB labeling requirements, symbol selection, or printing durable labels in-house? Call 1-888-789-7964 to speak with a DuraLabel safety and compliance specialist who can help guide your next steps.

Read Next:

What is HazCom? Your Guide to Chemical Labeling, GHS, & OSHA Standards

Toxic Waste Risks and Management