Managing PCB Spills and Fires at Forest Product Manufacturing Facillties, 1995 Environmental Conference Proceedings

Dan Sweeney

Stimson Lumber Co.

John P. Woodyard, P.E.,

Keith Shortsleeve, CHMM

Kelly F. Gough

Roy F. Weston, Inc.

Polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) insulating fluids continue to be used at many lumber mills and other forest product manufacturing facilities due to their superior fire retardant properties. While the continued use of PCB is permitted by EPA under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) provided specific management protocols are followed, the use of PCBs has some risk associated with it, specifically the possibility of an electrical failure or other facility fire. ln August 1994, a fire at the Stimson Lumber Co. saw mill in Libby, Montana resulted in damage to capacitors and transformers containing PCB and located at the adjoining powerhouse. Subsequent months were devoted to containing the incident, characterizing the extent of contamination from PCB release in liquid and fire soot, and restoring the powerhouse to full operation. This paper describes the project in detail, focusing on the extent of the spill, proper containment methods, decontamination and spill cleanup strategy, and evaluation of demolition and restoration of the damaged powerhouse equipment. Lessons learned from the incident are also highlighted, particularly important regulatory issues and the value of ongoing compliance with PCB management rules under TSCA.