Polychlorinated biphenyls, commonly referred to as PCBs, are persistent manmade chemicals that were used in caulk, construction materials and electrical products before the manufacturing of PCBs was banned in the U.S.

In 1976, Congress banned the manufacture and use of PCBs because of concern about their health and environmental effects and they were phased out except for certain limited uses in 1978. The use and disposal of PCBs before the phase-out has resulted in their widespread presence in soil, air, water and food.

Despite the federal ban, they remain present today in some materials, such as caulking and sealants that were used in the construction or renovation of older buildings. Due to this fact, indoor air, surfaces and dust may be a significant source of PCB exposure from PCB-contaminated caulk, other building materials and electrical products that contain PCBs.

The scientists at EMSL Analytical provide PCB testing services for caulk and other materials utilizing cutting edge techniques based on EPA methodologies. This enables EMSL to rapidly answer customers’ PCB questions and concerns with proven scientific results.