POLYCHLORINATED BIPHENYLS (PCBs)

7 8 Do Not store these containers in heated areas where temperatures can exceed the recommended storage temperature on their labels. Aboard ship, all aerosols are considered flammables and must be stored in a flammable liquid storage compartment or cabinet. Do Not discard these containers in wastebaskets that will be emptied into an incinerator; they could explode. POLYCHLORINATED BIPHENYLS (PCBs) Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are toxic chemicals belonging to the chlorinated hydrocarbon group of substances. They range in form and appearance from oily liquids to crystalline solids and hard transparent resins. These chemicals exhibit many favorable physical and chemical properties, including high heat capacity, chemical stability, noncorrosivity to metals, low flammability, low vapor pressure, and low electrical conductivity. They have, therefore, been used extensively as insulators and coolants in electrical equipment. Any PCBs in use aboard ship will typically function as insulating fluids or coolants within electrical equipment. (The chemicals might occasionally be found in totally-enclosed hydraulic and heat transfer systems.) Remember, these chemicals are toxic. That means they can be harmful to your health or even deadly. Their adverse effects can result from either brief or repeated exposure. The effects from short-term contact with high concentrations of PCB vapors or liquids include eye, nose, and throat irritation, headaches, and a skin rash known as chloracne. Repeated exposure can result in severe skin irritation, respiratory irritation, digestive tract damage, and damage to the liver. Systemic intoxication, that is, an adverse effect to your entire bodily system, can result from severe overexposure. Systemic intoxication is indicated by nausea, vomiting, weight loss, jaundice, and abdominal pain, and can be fatal. To protect all personnel, all equipment and cabinets containing in-service small and large PCB capacitors should be marked with the label shown in figure 2-3. You can find additional information on PCBS in the Shipboard Management Guide for Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs), NAVSEA S9593-A1-MAN-010. Although we do not require that you read this publication, we highly recommend that you do so. BATTERIES A battery consists of a group of cells that provide a source of direct-current electrical power. Batteries are used in automobiles, boats, aircraft, ships, submarines, lighting equipment, and portable and stationary electrical and electronic equipment. They can be used as main power sources or as secondary or backup power sources. Some batteries are rechargeable and some are not. Batteries can be dangerous. If used or handled improperly, they can explode, release toxic gases, or leak hazardous chemicals. This section gives you the Figure 2-3.—Sample 4" x4" EPA-required label. 2-5