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Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs)

Find out more about PCBs and how to renew your PCB holder registration

*NEW* PCB Compliance Campaign

We are currently running a Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB) compliance campaign. If you, or your company, own electrical equipment manufactured before 1987 then it may contain PCBs and you must check that you comply with the law. The Chemical Compliance Team is undertaking pro-active enforcement throughout the year, which includes sending out legal notices.

These pages contain information about PCBs, the regulations, and links to the registration forms and guidance. If you need more information, then please email us:  

What are PCBs?

PCBs are man-made organic chemicals. They pose a threat to human health and the environment.

There are 209 different PCB compounds. Manufacturers used PCBs in a wide variety of products because they are:

  • chemically inert
  • stable at high temperatures
  • flame resistant

PCBs pose a threat to the environment because of their toxicity, persistence and tendency to bio-accumulate, i.e. once they are in the environment or in animals or humans it is very difficult to get rid of them.

PCBs are classed as Persistent Organic Pollutants and production is now banned. However, they are still a problem because of their previously widespread use.

The PCB Regulations

Find out about how the Regulations may affect you.

What equipment contains PCBs?

Find out what equipment is covered by the PCB Regulations.

PCB Registration and yearly renewal

More information on how to register and renew your PCB holdings.

Contact us

Details of the ways you can contact us.