Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are chemicals that were extensively used across a wide range of industries around the world. Their impressive stability has meant that they can be used for a variety of things, ranging from coolants to hydraulic fluids and caulking sealants. Dating back to the 1980s, the use of PCBs in equipment was prohibited as they found that these chemicals are very carcinogenic and harmful to human health. However, they can still be found in areas today, including old industrial sites. This is why contamination testing is so important!
Here at Borehole Solutions, our professional team has over two decades of experience providing contamination testing services. Testing for PCBs is one branch that we specialise in, which is why we wanted to explain these chemicals in more detail.
Harmful Effects of PCBs
The adverse health effects caused by prolonged exposure to polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are varied. It has been found that high levels of PCBs in the bloodstream have been correlated with reduced physiological processes, such as development and growth. In addition, associated links have also been found with breast, cervical and uterine cancers, as well as severe skin conditions and dermal lesions. It’s no wonder that these highly toxic chemicals were banned!
Nowadays, contamination testing companies, such as Borehole Solutions, have to ensure that any residual quantities of PCBs are found. The major danger with subsurface PCBs is that they can leach into surrounding groundwater, which could result in drinking water being tainted with the toxins.
Testing for PCBs
Contamination testing is the process in which the suspected ground is sampled for hazardous substances. There are various signs to look out for, such as an unusual odour emanating from the earth or barren patches of grass. A range of suites of contamination tests are available, including heavy metals to TPH and Waste Acceptance Criteria (WAC) testing.
To test for PCBs, the area needs to undergo soil sampling. These samples are collected and sent away to a certified laboratory for testing. As opposed to the ‘standard’ testing, testing for PCBs comes under the ‘extended’ option. This ‘extended’ testing also allows for other contaminants to be tested, such as TPH-CWG, vanadium and barium.
Other Contamination Testing Services
Here at Borehole Solutions, we also offer a range of other contamination testing services, including testing for the following:
- Asbestos
- Arsenic
- Cadmium
- Chromium
- Copper
- Zinc
- Lead
- Mercury
- Selenium
- Cyanide
- Fluoride
- Nitrates
- Pesticides
Contact Borehole Solutions
If you would like to find out more information about our contamination testing services, then please, get in touch! Contact our friendly team today on 01733 200501 or email us at info@boreholesolutions.com. Alternatively, click here to talk to us directly! We look forward to hearing from you!
