PCB in sealant

Polychlorobiphenyls (PCB) are a family of 209 organochlorine compounds which are dangerous to health and the environment. As they are very persistent, they build up in the food chain, representing the main source of exposure for humans.

These products, developed at the end of the 20th century, were mainly used for their electrical insulation properties, but also as plasticizers in joints or paints. The removal of these products without taking precautions may lead to high concentrations of PCB in the air and present a danger to operators in the building as well as to its inhabitants.

In addition, inappropriate removal may lead to dispersal of the PCBs in the environment or incomplete combustion, releasing toxic products.

The construction works regulations (OTConst, modified in 2008) set out that doubts over PCBs must be dispelled by the employer and that adequate measures must be undertaken for the manipulation of products containing PCBs.