Asbestos & PCB Contamination: The Legacy Chemicals Still in Your Neighborhood

Asbestos & PCB Contamination: The Legacy Chemicals Still in Your Neighborhood

Banned decades ago, asbestos and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) persist in soil, buildings, and waterways near hundreds of EPA-tracked sites. ToxIndex data identifies 247 ZIP codes where these legacy contaminants remain the primary hazard.

Legacy Contamination Data

153
Asbestos Sites
94
PCB Sites
247
ZIP Codes Total
30+
States Impacted

Why These Chemicals Persist

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral fiber that was used extensively in construction, insulation, brake pads, and industrial applications through the 1980s. When asbestos-containing materials deteriorate or are disturbed, microscopic fibers become airborne. Inhalation causes mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis — diseases that can take 20-50 years to develop after exposure.

PCBs (polychlorinated biphenyls) were used in electrical transformers, hydraulic fluids, and industrial lubricants from the 1930s until their ban in 1979. PCBs are highly persistent, bioaccumulate in fish and wildlife, and are classified as probable human carcinogens. Contaminated sediments in rivers and lakes continue to expose communities decades after PCB production ended.

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Protecting Your Household

Asbestos

  • Do not disturb suspected asbestos materials (floor tiles, pipe insulation, roof shingles in pre-1980 homes)
  • Hire certified inspectors before any renovation of homes built before 1980
  • Professional abatement costs $1,500-$3,000 per 100 sq ft for removal, or $2-6 per sq ft for encapsulation

PCBs

  • Fish advisories — Check your state fish consumption advisory before eating locally caught fish
  • Soil contact — Avoid direct contact with soil near former electrical equipment or transformer sites
  • Indoor caulk — Buildings constructed 1950-1978 may contain PCB-laden caulking around windows and joints

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if my home has asbestos?

Homes built before 1980 likely contain asbestos in some materials. You cannot identify asbestos visually — laboratory analysis is required. Certified asbestos inspectors can sample suspicious materials for $200-400. Common locations include floor tiles (9×9 inch), pipe insulation, popcorn ceilings, and roof shingles.

Can I remove asbestos myself?

The EPA strongly recommends against DIY asbestos removal. Improper removal creates airborne fibers that are extremely dangerous. Most states require licensed abatement contractors for removal. If the material is in good condition and undisturbed, the safest option is often to leave it in place and monitor.

Are PCBs still a risk if they were banned in 1979?

Yes. PCBs persist in the environment for decades. Contaminated river sediments, soil near former industrial sites, and building materials from the era continue to expose communities. The EPA maintains fish consumption advisories for PCB-contaminated waterways across the country.

Data Sources: EPA SEMS, EPA TSCA (Toxic Substances Control Act), USGS Water Quality Data. Analyzed by ToxIndex.