Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs)
Did you or a loved one suffer harmful health effects as a result of chronic exposure to products created with Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs)?
If so, you may be entitled to compensation from the party responsible.
Why might you or a loved one be entitled to compensation?
According to the US Environmental Protection Agency, “PCBs are a group of man-made organic chemicals consisting of carbon, hydrogen and chlorine atoms. The number of chlorine atoms and their location in a PCB molecule determine many of its physical and chemical properties. PCBs have no known taste or smell, and range in consistency from an oil to a waxy solid.”
“PCBs belong to a broad family of man-made organic chemicals known as chlorinated hydrocarbons. PCBs were domestically manufactured from 1929 until manufacturing was banned in 1979. They have a range of toxicity and vary in consistency from thin, light-colored liquids to yellow or black waxy solids. Due to their non-flammability, chemical stability, high boiling point and electrical insulating properties, PCBs were used in hundreds of industrial and commercial applications.”
What products contain PCBs?
Banned in 1979, PCBs are no longer commercially manufactured in the United States. PCBs, however, still appear in products, materials, and buildings produced before the 1979 ban. According to the EPA, products that may contain PCBs include:
- transformers and capacitors
- electrical equipment including voltage regulators, switches, re-closers, 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
Health Effects
Cancers associated with PCBs include:
- liver cancer
- breast cancer
- malignant melanoma (skin cancer)
- Non-Hodgkin lymphoma (cancer of the body’s immune system)
- other cancers
Exposure to PCBs is also linked with:
- neurological effects
- reproductive issues
- damage to the endocrine and immune systems
Free Assessment
Finding out if you have a potential claim is free and fast. Please go to this link for our intake form.