Gifu City Urges Prompt Disposal of Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs) in Old X-ray Films and Other Equipment
Gifu City has issued an important public announcement, urging residents and businesses to promptly address the disposal of equipment containing Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs), particularly those found in older X-ray films and other electrical appliances. The announcement, published on August 13, 2025, at 08:00, aims to raise awareness about the potential environmental and health risks associated with these persistent organic pollutants and to guide proper disposal procedures.
What are PCBs?
Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs) are synthetic organic chemicals that were widely used in the past for their non-flammable properties and insulating capabilities. They were commonly found in a variety of industrial and commercial applications, including:
- Electrical Equipment: Capacitors and transformers in older electrical equipment, such as X-ray machines, fluorescent lighting ballasts, and switchgear.
- Heat Transfer Fluids: In various industrial processes.
- Plasticizers: In paints, plastics, and sealants.
- Carbonless Copy Paper: In some older forms.
However, due to their persistence in the environment and potential adverse health effects, PCBs have been banned in many countries, including Japan, since the 1970s and 1980s.
Why is Prompt Disposal Necessary?
PCBs are highly stable and do not easily break down in the environment. This persistence means they can accumulate in soil, water, and living organisms, posing long-term risks. Exposure to PCBs has been linked to a range of health problems, including:
- Skin conditions: Such as chloracne.
- Liver damage.
- Reproductive and developmental issues.
- Immune system suppression.
- Increased risk of certain cancers.
The Gifu City announcement specifically highlights older X-ray films, which often contained PCBs in their coating to improve image quality. While the risk from individual films might be low, large quantities or improper storage can lead to gradual release of these chemicals. Other legacy equipment, such as older transformers and capacitors, also require careful handling.
Gifu City’s Guidance for Proper Disposal
Gifu City is committed to ensuring that PCBs are managed and disposed of safely and in accordance with strict environmental regulations. The city emphasizes that disposal of PCB-containing waste is a specialized process and should not be undertaken by individuals or businesses without proper authorization and expertise.
The announcement advises anyone who possesses or is aware of equipment containing PCBs to take the following steps:
- Identification: If you have old electrical equipment, especially X-ray machines, transformers, or capacitors that predate the ban on PCBs, there is a possibility they may contain these substances.
- Contact the Relevant Authorities: For advice on identification, storage, and the legal requirements for disposal, it is crucial to contact the Gifu City Hall or the designated environmental authorities. They can provide specific guidance and connect you with licensed PCB disposal contractors.
- Do Not Attempt Self-Disposal: It is vital to avoid any attempts to dispose of PCB-containing materials through regular waste streams, incineration, or by dismantling the equipment yourself. Such actions can lead to environmental contamination and potential legal penalties.
- Secure Storage: Until proper disposal can be arranged, ensure that any identified PCB-containing materials are stored in a secure location, preventing leakage or environmental release.
Working Together for a Safer Environment
Gifu City’s proactive approach in issuing this announcement underscores its dedication to protecting the health and well-being of its citizens and the environment. By working together and adhering to the provided guidelines, residents and businesses can contribute to the safe management of legacy PCB waste and help prevent future environmental contamination.
For further information and specific instructions on identifying and disposing of PCB-containing waste, please refer to the official Gifu City website or contact the relevant municipal departments.
古いレントゲン等に含まれるポリ塩化ビフェニル（PCB）は早めに処理してください。
AI has delivered the news.
The answer to the following question is obtained from Google Gemini.
岐阜市 published ‘古いレントゲン等に含まれるポリ塩化ビフェニル（PCB）は早めに処理してください。’ at 2025-08-13 08:00. Please write a detailed article about this news in a polite tone with relevant information. Please reply in English with the article only.