Document pmN8290k77LQYk5zKedxEam3d

WKLT. 1,500 MAR 2 9 1973 [SacShb] Procedure to Rocluco Hazard of PCB's in Environment Proposed A procedure to ensure proper handling and disposal of askarel, which contains chemicals that could be harmful to the environment, has been published by the National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) in the form of a Standards Proposal. This Standards Proposal will ultimately become American National Standard Guidelines (an ANSI Standard) for handling and disposal of capac' itor and transformer grade askarels containing polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB's). At that time this Standards Proposal will be rescinded. Askarel is a fluid used as an insulation in sealed electrical transformers and capacitors. Consisting of or containing PCB's, askarel has been used in a wide variety of applications over the past 40 years. But recently evidence was uncovered that PCB's are widely dispersed in the environment, and some studies have shown that PCB's may be a contaminant (see Clean Air ano Water News, Vol. 4, pp. 320 and 627). Recognizing the responsibility of controlling the use and disposal of asjuxet, the Monsanto Company--sole U. S. producer of the material--and NEMA, representing the producers of transformers and capacitors, organized a committee in early 1971 to develop recommendations for the procedures to be followed in dealing with askarel. : ; I | | . . J l ; | ! MCNS 069071