Transnet Freight Rail (TFR) has embarked on a process to eliminate the use of PCB oils and PCB contaminated materials/equipment which are used as insulation in electrical equipment such as transformers, capacitors, microwave ovens and circuit breakers. This is in accordance with regulations on the elimination/disposal of PCBs and PCB contaminated materials, issued by the Department of Environmental Affairs (DEA) in July last year.
TFR has registered as a PCB holder and has subsequently submitted its phase-out plan to the DEA. The DEA’s phase-out time frame stipulates that no organisation is permitted to utilise any PCB material or PCB contaminated material after the year 2023, nor is any organisation permitted to have PCBs in its possession after the year 2026, excluding PCB waste.
The penalty for possession of PCB materials is a fine not exceeding R10 million or imprisonment for a period not exceeding 10 years, or a combination of both.
PCBs have remarkable thermal stability and only break down at temperatures of more than 1000 degrees Celsius. They are yellowish viscous liquids with distinct odour. They are highly resistant to acids, alkalis and oxidisers due to their high chemical composition and are insoluble in water and are semi-degradable.
Although they have never been manufactured in South Africa, PCBs have been imported for use mainly in equipment used for electricity generation and distribution.
