Disposal of Transformers
Electrical transformers come in two categories, wet and dry. The dry type transformer is generally not a disposal problem. The wet type transformer may contain oil which contains Polychlorinated Biphenyls, or PCBs. The disposal of any oil-filled transformer should be coordinated through Environmental Affairs.
The transformer should be completely disconnected from any power source. If the unit has a large enough reservoir, we will draw a sample to determine whether the oil contains PCBs. Once the laboratory results return, we will schedule a pickup by a contractor specializing in transformer disposal, specifically permitted to handle PCBs.
Once contacted, the disposal contractor can usually schedule a pickup within one month. The pickup will be made from the building where the transformer was used if that building has a loading dock. If the building does not have a loading dock, or the loading dock is for some reason inaccessible or unavailable, contact Environmental Affairs staff at x4999 or x2883 to coordinate moving the transformer to an alternate shipment location. Please do not move the transformer without contacting staff in the Environmental Affairs Program.
Unnecessary expenses incurred, caused by someone not following these policies, will be charged to the appropriate party or their department.
For additional information, please contact staff in Environmental Affairs staff at x4999 or x2883.
October 2, 2007 by SAK