Thailand Regulations on PCBs in Transformer Oil

Thailand introduced strict environmental regulations regarding the use of polychlorinated biphenyls in the 1970s. Thailand adopted the regulations for environmentally damaging industrial chemicals as part of international treaties, such as the Stockholm Convention.

Regulations

The manufacture and use of PCBs was banned by the government of Thailand in 1975 to halt the environmental damage caused by the use of PCB oils. Despite the ban, some PCBs are found in Thailand's environment because of the release of oils from older transformers.

International

Thailand takes part in the Stockholm Convention that aims to restrict the damage caused by organic chemicals to humans and the environment. As part of this protection Thailand has eliminated all PCB imports and exports.

PCB

PCBs are a group of organic chemicals consisting of benzene and carbon. Although PCBs are banned, a small number of transformers containing PCB oil manufactured before 1975 are still in operation and stored in Thailand.

References

• Environmental Research & Training Center: Distribution of Polychlorinated Biphenyl in Sediment from Aquatic Environment
• Pollution Control Department: Overview of Hazardous Substances Management