Environmental Pollutants
New York Pollution
|
PCB-Contaminated Caulk Testing and Removal Problems at NYC City Schools
The EPA is currently investigating and providing information to school districts throughout the U.S. regarding the potential hazards in removing PCB-contaminated caulk materials that were used in many schools during the 1950s-1970s. That investigation also included alleged violations against the City of New York regarding PCB-containing caulk found at NYC schools.
If you or your children have suffered health problems linked to exposure to PCBs at New York City schools, please contact our lawyers today for more information and a free review of your possible case.
In September 2009, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) published a number of informational materials regarding the testing and removal of caulk insulation and sealant materials that contained polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs).
The EPA developed the materials to address possible health risks to children from exposure to PCBs. Many older school buildings, particularly those built or remodeled during the 1950s through the 1970s, used PCB-containing caulk due to the increased flexibility in the sealant. After 1978, caulk was no longer produced using PCBs.
Issues at NYC Public Schools
Part of the EPA investigation was directed at the City of New York and the 1,600 schools under the control of the City, the Department of Education (DOE) and the NYC City School Construction Authority (SCA).
The EPA has defined “PCB caulk” as caulking materials with a PCB concentration of 50 parts-per million (ppm). Since large quantities of PCB caulk are believed to have been used to seal joints and crevices around windows, doors and other areas of the City’s older school buildings, the EPA’s discussions with the city were intended to develop a pilot work plan to test for PCBs and a work plan to safely remove the contaminated caulk from the school buildings.
The agreement between the EPA and the City will involve several phases, which will include:
Risks to Public Health Caused by PCB Caulk Exposure
A number of national and international health and safety agencies have studied PCBs and the potential health risks associated with exposure to PCBs. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) and the World Health Organization (WHO) have declared PCBs to be a probable carcinogen (cancer-causing substance). In addition, both the National Institutes of Environmental Health Science (NIEHS) and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) have also classified PCBs as a potential occupational carcinogen.
In addition to cancer risks, scientific studies have also linked PCB exposure to a increased risk of possible disorders of the immune, reproductive, neurological and endocrine systems.
Weitz & Luxenberg Can Help
For over 20 years, Weitz & Luxenberg has fought for the rights of families affected by environmental pollution and other contaminants that affect the health and property of countless communities.
If you or a loved one has been affected by PCB exposure at a New York City school, contact us for a free review of your potential lawsuit. A Weitz & Luxenberg representative will contact you as soon as possible.
see also:
PCBs in Caulk
PCB Caulk in NYC | Weitz & LuxenbergGet help from our lawyers. PCB-containing caulk at NYC public schools
NYC Public Schools
PCBs in NYC Schools | Weitz & LuxenbergOur lawyers provide info on PCB-containing caulk at NYC Public Schools
