New PCB Guidelines
New PCB regulations published by the Canadian government came into effect in September 2008. These new PCB guidelines set specific deadlines for the use and storage of PCB material in Canada. The government of Canada anticipates the new regulations will result in the removal of 90% of material still in use and 100% of PCB in storage by the end of 2009. The PCB remaining in use will be primarily composed of low-level PCB and are expected to be eliminated by 2025. Highlights of these PCB guidelines include:
1.) December 31, 2009 deadline:
i.) For transformers with PCB in concentrations of 500 ppm or greater
ii.) For units with more than 50 ppm and less than 500 ppm if located in a sensitive area. Sensitive areas are defined as being in or near (within 100 m) of a hospital, food or feed processing plant, senior care facility, pre-school/daycare, or a school
2.) December 31, 2025 deadline:
i.) For transformers with more than 50 ppm but less than 500 ppm and are not located in a sensitive area
ii.) Pole top transformers with a concentration of more than 50 ppm
3.) Labelling and reporting requirements for PCB material
4.) Elimination of existing PCB storage sites
Click here to download a complete copy of recent amendments to Canadian PCB legislation.