PCB Caulk Investigation / Remediation
Prior to the late 1970’s, caulk used to seal window frames, door frames, and masonry control joints, commonly contained high levels of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). Caulking manufacturers added PCBs to their product as plasticizers to give the caulk its’ elastic characteristic. Due to their significant toxic effects, PCBs were banned in the United States in 1977. However, buildings which were constructed or refurbished prior to that time, especially those constructed with masonry, have a good chance of containing PCB-caulk. For these buildings, PCBs can leach out of the caulk and contaminate the adjacent building material and the soil surrounding the building. In addition, the PCBs can volatilize into the building’s indoor air and be inhaled by the building occupants. Studies have shown the release of PCBs from this caulking material can dramatically increase the health risk to users of these buildings and properties. Investigations are necessary to collect the information required to obtain a clear understanding of the presence and concentrations of PCBs in the interior and exterior areas of these buildings, the potential environmental and human health risks, and the financial consequences associated with eliminating the contamination. EnviroSense can design investigations of these properties to:
- Evaluate the presence of PCBs and Identify sources, pathways, and potential receptors of PCB-containing caulk;
- Assist in risk characterization of human health, public welfare, safety and the environment;
- Evaluate the necessity to implement remedial action;
- Quantifying financial liability associated with remediation of PCB-contaminated material;
- Collect necessary data to support the evaluation, selection, and design of appropriate remedial strategy; and
- Evaluate regulatory compliance.
Common activities EnviroSense conducts during investigations and remediation include:
- Regulatory reviews and owner/operator interviews;
- On-site inspections and surveys;
- Sampling and analysis of building materials and related areas such as caulk, soil adjacent to buildings, interior and exterior building surfaces, ventilation systems, and indoor air;
- Compile inventories (including site figures and tables) of materials and areas determined to be contaminated with PCBs;
- Develop remediation strategy to effectively remove PCB-containing building materials and clean contaminated building areas; and
- Coordinate and oversee the remediation in accordance with federal and state regulatory requirements.
Removing PCBs from facilities is imperative to ensuring the health of individuals in the surrounding environment. The professionals at EnviroSense can assess the risk, the remedial action and the steps to site redevelopment. Contact EnviroSense today to schedule an appointment for the removal of PCB or other hazardous material.