I need to state first the relevance of discussing PCBs to amps. Most
know that older amp parts like oil filled capacitors may contain PCBs, a
suspected carcinogen.
A Google search, which all can do, turns up some interesting positions
on the hazard of PCBs. Some questioning the hazard level and others
strongly believing that it is a carcinogen. I have quoted below one of
the evaluations that I found.
"Why are PCBs called a 'probable' carcinogen?
EPA's regulations on cancer-causing chemicals use the term 'probable'
when a chemical is known to cause cancer in animals and where there is
evidence that suggests that it causes cancer in humans but which is not
conclusive. Because you can't feed chemicals to humans to see how they
respond, it is much more difficult to demonstrate carcinogenicity in
humans than in animals. Instead, studies are undertaken of groups who
have been exposed to a chemical, and if they suffer from more cancers
than would be expected at normal levels, this may indicate that the
chemical was a carcinogen. However, there are many difficulties doing
these studies: small numbers of people known to be exposed to a
chemical; the fact that people suffer from many cancers without any
chemical exposure; the fact that in some cases these people were exposed
to a number of other chemicals; and the need to demonstrate high cancer
rates that cannot be random in order to draw conclusions. Thus the term
'probable' reflects the limited nature of the studies, and it is rare
that a carcinogen is so effective that it can be called a 'known' human
carcinogen. The fact that PCBs are called a 'probable' carcinogen
should not be taken as a sign that they are benign."
PCB's can enter the body in three ways:
By ingestion or swallowing contaminated food or drink.
By absorption through the skin.
By inhaling the vapour. However, vapour concentrations at room
temperature are not significant.
To answer my own question, I cannot find any evidence of an oil
containing PCBs in a sealed, leak proof container to be hazardous.
None! Even if the PCB leaked into a contained space is see no danger.
The possible potential danger MAY exist if the PCBs escape into the
environment.
Personally, since there is a potential for exposure to PCBs to be
hazardous, I would 'error' on the safe side. I would use good hygiene
practices should I become exposed to PCBs, but I would not 'freak out'
should I get some on my skin. Good hygiene practices like washing hands
before eating, or working in a ventilated area should the PCB be heated
to the open.
There is no point in over-reacting unless you want to create a
fictitious health scare. The food you eat probably contains different
levels of PCBs that you are not even aware of. Our bodies are exposed
to many, many different chemicals. Ever check you basement for the
level of Radon 226?
Doug
For a small reward, a man will hurry away on a long journey; while for
eternal life, many will hardly take a single step. -Thomas A Kempis
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