Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs)

Fact Sheet on Practical Actions for Reducing Exposure to Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs) in Schools and Other Buildings

The EPA believes that there was potential widespread use of PCB-containing building materials in schools and other buildings built or renovated between 1950 and 1979. This is an important issue because PCBs have been identified as probable human carcinogens and may cause a variety of non-cancer health effects.

Though the presence of PCBs in schools and other buildings may be a concern, it is not cause for immediate alarm. If PCBs are present or suspected of being present, EPA recommends school administrators, building owners and building managers take actions outlined in this document to reduce PCB exposures.

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