Management and disposal of Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs): consultation

Current Regulatory Position

In September 1996, EC Directive 96/56/EC made provisions regarding the registration and disposal of PCBs. This Directive required the preparation of inventories, labelling and disposal/treatment of PCB holdings. This was implemented by the current regulations in Scotland (and the Environmental Protection (Disposal of Polychlorinated Biphenyls and other Dangerous Substances) (England and Wales) Regulations 2000 for England and Wales). These prohibit the holding of PCBs and equipment containing PCBs with some limited exceptions. Under the current regulations, there is an exception allowing transformers with fluids which contain 0.05% by weight or less of PCBs to be held until the end of their useful life.