www.dirtdoctor.com
https://www.dirtdoctor.com/efl/dirtDoctor/

Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs)
https://www.dirtdoctor.com/efl/dirtDoctor/polychlorinated-biphenyls-pcbs-t15706.html
Page 1 of 1

Author:  Dirt Doctor [ Sun Sep 25, 2011 8:27 am ]
Post subject:  Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs)

For nearly 40 years, corporate giant Monsanto routinely dumped toxic waste into West Anniston Creek in Alabama while producing now-banned industrial coolants called PCBs. They also dumped millions of pounds of PCBs into open-pit landfills – and proceeded to spend decades covering it up even after confirming that fish submerged in the creek turned belly-up within seconds.

Monsanto knew exactly how dangerous PCBs were, but decided not to warn the community – instead, ordering the conclusion of a study done on rats to be changed from “slightly tumorigenic” to “does not appear to be carcinogenic.” The company had enjoyed a four-decade-long monopoly over the PCB market and, as an internal memo revealed, decided that “We can’t afford to lose one dollar of business”. In fact, to this day Monsanto hasn’t apologized or taken responsibility despite the fact that they were forced to pay $700 billion in fines in 2003.

Commercial Use of PCBs
Although no longer commercially produced in the United States, PCBs may be present in products and materials. Products that may contain PCBs include:
• Transformers and capacitors
• Other electrical equipment including voltage regulators, switches, reclosers, bushings, and electromagnets
• Oil used in motors and hydraulic systems
• Old electrical devices or appliances containing PCB capacitors
• Fluorescent light ballasts
• Cable insulation
• Thermal insulation material including fiberglass, felt, foam, and cork
• Adhesives and tapes
• Oil-based paint
• Caulking
• Plastics
• Carbonless copy paper
• Floor finish


http://www.commondreams.org/headlines02/0101-02.htm
http://www.epa.gov/osw/hazard/tsd/pcbs/pubs/effects.htm
http://www.epa.gov/osw/hazard/tsd/pcbs/index.htm
http://www.foxriverwatch.com/human_health_pcb.html
http://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/eh/hlthhaz/fs/PCBlink.HTM

Page 1 of 1 All times are UTC - 6 hours
Powered by phpBB® Forum Software © phpBB Group
https://www.phpbb.com/