Polychlorinated Biphenyl’s have a high thermal and chemical resistance such that they do not readily explode or breakdown upon exposure to thermal or chemical treatment. This makes them to accumulate in the environment until they get to dangerous levels. In such a case An EH and S professional at the site should ensure that the chemical does not find its way into water bodies as a way of breaking the chain of bioaccumulation.
The chemical is highly lipophilic such that it has a high affinity for the human skin which has fats hence it easily penetrates the skin where it causes severe corrosion. Therefore, it is important for any EH and S professional at the scene to minimize contact of the chemical with either rubber or human skin.
The EH and S professional who gets into contact with the chemical or his gear often develops rashes on the patch and plenty of water should be used to wash away the chemical while the protective gear should be discarded immediately.
One of the key components of hazardous organic matter that is essential to the health and safety of an EH and S professional is the volatility of the compound especially upon exposure to the atmosphere. This is relevant as such a compound may lead to life threatening explosions. The other aspect is the nature of fumes which are produced by the compound. Some compounds release suffocating fumes which may choke the people nearby hence it is an important component of the compound. The third component which is equally relevant to the safety of an EH and S professional is the effect of the chemical upon contact with human skin. This is essential as some hazardous chemicals are equally corrosive.
