Building-Related PCBs – Remediation, Renovation, and Demolition

Building-related PCBs are addressed in two SBi Guidelines: SBi Guidelines 241, Survey and Assessment of Building-Related PCBs (Andersen, 2015) and this one, which replaces SBi Guidelines 242, Renovating Buildings Containing PCBs (Andersen, 2013).

Since first editions of the PCB Guidelines were published in 2013, more research has been carried out into the remediation of PCB contamination, and the extent of PCBs in materials and indoor air has been mapped on a national scale (Grontmij & COWI, 2013). Furthermore, the Danish Health Authority’s action values for PCB content in indoor air have been revised (Danish Health Authority, 2013) and experience of remediation methods have been gathered (Haven & Langeland, 2016).

These Guidelines are based on SBi Guidelines 242 and their focus on the remediation process and the methods applied to mitigate excessive exposure levels of PCB content in indoor air. It departs from SBi Guidelines 242 by also explaining the progressive stages of renovation or demolition processes in buildings containing PCBs and the specific considerations and measures necessary to ensure the correct management of PCB-contaminated waste.

The Guidelines address professional clients, consultants, and contractors. Sections outlining remediation, renovation, and demolition are directed at building owners. Please also consult the electronic PCB guide (www.pcb-guiden.dk), an inter-ministerial initiative.