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Caulk: ◦A flexible material used to seal gaps in buildings

◦Makes windows, door frames, masonry and joints watertight and airtight.

◦Prior to 1980, caulk was manufactured with PCBs.

o High levels of PCBs (polychlorinated biphenyls) have been found in many schools and other buildings built or remodeled before 1978.

o PCBs can migrate from the caulk into air, dust, building materials, and soil.

source: metropolitanenvironmental

o PCBs are man-made toxic chemicals that persist in the environment & bioaccumulate in animals & humans.o PCBs were manufactured in the United

States until the late 1970s.o Exposure to PCBs can affect

the reproductive, immune, nervous & endocrine systems.

o PCBs are potentially cancer-causing.

Reduce exposure to PCBs in caulk until it can be safely removed:

◦Improve ventilation & add exhaust fans.◦Clean frequently to reduce dust/residue.◦Use a damp cloth to clean surfaces. ◦Use vacuums with HEPA filters, then mop.◦Do NOT broom sweep or use dusters. ◦Wash hands with soap & water often.

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o Wash children’s toys and other items often.

ARA was called to inspect, sample and test for PCBs & other hazardous materials prior to the renovation.

“Companies that choose not to test for PCBs should be aware that if a waste disposal site finds PCB contamination in the company’s waste, that company is responsible for all associated costs & liability.” -from “PCBs: the New Asbestos” by Guy Sylvester. Read more here: http://millyardcommunications.com/index.php?src=news&refno=3206&category=News