Non-PCB Magnetic Ballast Recycling Regulations

Newer schools use non-PCB magnetic ballasts for their lighting needs.

Prior to 1979, lighting ballasts in fixtures utilized insulators called PCBs. Due to their toxicity levels, PCB use was banned and non-PCB magnetic ballasts were installed. Though not as dangerous as a PCB ballast, non-PCB ballasts also require special consideration.

Features

A non-PCB ballast lacks the chemical polychlorinated biphenyls found in PCB ballasts. As a replacement, the ballast industry turned to the chemical Di (2-Ethylexyl) to create the needed insulator to control the electrical current to the lighting fixture.

Considerations

At the time of publication, there are no government regulations stipulating that non-PCB ballasts have to be recycled. However, non-PCB magnetic ballasts should be recycled with a reputable company that ensures that the ballast assembly will be disposed of properly as newer ballasts still pose toxicity levels in the form of carcinogens, or cancer-causing agents.

Identification

To know if a ballast contains PCB or not, look for a clear label stating "no PCBs." If there is no label, it is a safe practice to assume that the ballast does contain PCBs, states the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

References

• ADCO Services: Ballast Disposal
• U.S. Environmental Protection Agency: Proper Maintenance, Removal, and Disposal of PCB-Containing Fluorescent Light Ballasts