PCB regulations and their application to deactivation and decommissioning activities: Technical assistance project

摘要

DOE's economic development plans involve efforts to deactivate and decommission or refurbish site buildings and operational facilities for other uses. Site personnel must decide on disposition of stored materials, which include increasing numbers of excess and/or unwanted oil-filled equipment (e.g., transformers, hydraulic systems, heat transfer systems) and oil-containing 'orphaned' drums. Because oil and these items can also contain polychlorinated biphenyls, it is essential that site personnel become aware of the regulations applicable to PCBs (adherence will minimize DOE hazardous material management liabilities). A recent incident at a DOE facility provides a case in point with important lessons to be learned for all sites within the DOE complex.