Module 6: Workplace & Chemical Hazards 6.4 PCB Susan Harwood Grant Number SH F-23 Shipbreaking

Disclaimer This material was produced under grant number SH F-23 from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, U.S. Department of Labor. It does not necessarily reflect the views or polices of the U.S. Department of Labor, nor does mention of trade names, commercial products, or organizations imply endorsement by the U.S. Government. 2

Objectives 3 Identify the chemical hazards List potential locations Explain what PPE may be required Describe the effects of chronic exposure

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PCBs means polychorinated biphenyls. Figure 1 Container of wiring being processed 6

209 individual chlorinated compounds make up the chemical PCB. Figure 2 Vessel in slip awaiting for dismantling 7

It comes in an oily liquid or solids that range from colorless to yellows. Figure 3 PCB wiring in roll off box 8

There is no associated taste or smell. Figure 4 PCB shredder operation 9

The PCB makes good insulators. Figure 5 Close up view of electrical wiring 10

In 1977, the U.S. outlawed the manufacturing of PCB. Figure 6 Roll off box container for electrical wiring 11

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Lubricants in transformers. Figure 7 Storage area for PCB’s and mercury 13

Electrical wiring that runs throughout the ship and inside wiring of equipment. Figure 8 Electrical wiring in the engine room 14

Capacitors Figure 9 Electrical components in drum 15

Prior to 1977 fluorescent lighting may contained PCB. Figure 10 Recycled lighting in container 16

Vacuum pump fluids Figure 11 pumps in the engine room 17

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Limits for air contaminants is 0.5 mg/m3 Figure 12 Engine room near the generator 19

Protective clothing to reduce skin contact. Figure 13 Worker in protective clothing on board vessel 20

Respirators when potential for airborne contaminates exist. Figure 14 Full faced respirator 21

Face shield or goggles to prevent contact with face or eyes. Figure 15 Face shield and secondary eye protection 22

Chemical resistant gloves and boots should be worn if exposure to liquid has been identified. Figure 16 Rubber gloves sealed to suit 23

Ensure adequate ventilation when working in a confined space. Figure 17 Ventilation unit on containment 24

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Studies conclude that liver damage occurs with PCB exposure. Figure 18 Containment exercise 26

Impairs reproductive systems. Figure 19 Crowd of people in park 27

Some studies concluded that exposure increases risk of cancer. Figure 20 Roll off container of water collected on board 28

Exposure to skin may causes rashes Figure 21 Exercise in containment barriers 29

Behavior problems associated with motor skills and short-term memory. Figure 22 Breaking down containment room after exercise 30

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References OSHA eTool Wikipedia Encyclopedia Agency for Toxic Substances & Disease Registry

34 Worker safety is a priority.