DATA SHEET

Disposal of PCB Containing Ballasts

Ref. 40 CFR §761.62

Overview

• Fluorescent and High Intensity Discharge (HID) ballasts, manufactured through 1979, contain a small capacitor expressing concentrations of Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs) greater than 90% pure or 900,000 ppm.

• Ballasts containing PCBs will be accumulated for subsequent off-site incineration in accordance with responsible disposal practices in an effort to avoid future liability.

• A leaking PCB containing ballasts exposes an oily tar-like substance. All material which comes in contact with this tar-like substance shall be managed as PCB waste.

• Ballasts manufactured after 1979 that do not contain PCBs are labeled "No PCBs" and may be disposed of as Sanitary Waste. If a ballast is not labeled "No PCBs" assume it contains PCBs.

• These wastes are not considered Resource Conservation & Recovery Act wastes and will not count towards the facility’s hazardous waste generator status.

Requirements

• Accumulate non-leaking PCB containing ballasts within a container and label as "Non-Leaking PCB Containing Ballasts".

• Accumulate leaking PCB containing ballasts within a container and label as "Leaking PCB Containing Ballasts". Place absorbent material in bottom of container prior to addition of ballasts.

• Keep containers closed when not adding or removing ballasts.

• Contract for disposal as appropriate, ensure container is labeled in accordance with Department of Transportation requirements prior to off-site shipment.

Record Keeping

• Maintain shipping papers (i.e. Uniform Hazardous Waste Manifests) papers to document proper management and to compile waste reports.