Indoor Air Quality- PCB Testing

–Teklab’s PCB Analysis–

EPA Method TO-10a:
Determination of Polychlorinated Biphenyls in Ambient Air

PCBs were banned in 1979, but many schools built between 1950 and 1980 still contain PCBs. Unfortunately, PCBs can also affect human health and the environment. They also take a very long time to break down in the environment and they can be stored in our bodies for a long time.  These older buildings can release PCBs into dust and the surrounding air, when renovating older buildings, it is important to be conscious of the environmental hazards that old toxic containments play in harming the air quality. 

Health Risks of PCBs in Indoor Air

1. Respiratory and Skin Issues:
   • Chronic exposure to airborne PCBs can irritate the skin and eyes and lead to respiratory problems.
2. Neurodevelopmental Effects:
   • In children, PCBs are associated with impaired cognitive development and reduced IQ. Prolonged exposure can disrupt brain development during critical growth periods.
3. Endocrine Disruption:
   • PCBs can interfere with hormonal systems, potentially affecting growth, metabolism, and reproductive health.
4. Carcinogenic Potential:
   • The EPA classifies PCBs as probable human carcinogens. Long-term exposure increases the risk of cancers, particularly liver cancer.
5. Immune System Impairment:
   • PCBs can suppress immune system function, increasing vulnerability to infections and diseases.

It is estimated that between a quarter and a half of the 48,000 schools built or renovated between 1950 and 1979 in the United States may have used materials containing PCBs. (Managing PCBs in Schools. Western States PEHSU fact sheet 2017)