Chemical name: 1,1'-Biphenyl, chloro derivs.

Final regulatory action has been taken for the category: Industrial

Final regulatory action: The chemical is Banned

Use or uses prohibited by the final regulatory action:

All uses of PCBs with exception of mono- and dichlorinated biphenyls.

Use or uses that remain allowed:

May be used until the end of 2005 on the terms of closed systems, such as transformers, resistors and inductors.

The final regulatory action was based on a risk or hazard evaluation: No

Summary of the final regulatory action:

PCBs are banned for use and sale as industrial chemicals. Exceptionally, derogation may be granted till the end of 2005 on the terms of closed systems, such as transformers, resistors and inductors according to the Regulation relating to bans and restriction on the marketing and use of certain dangerous substances and preparations. Further to general prohibitions of PCBs, the use and sale of any preparations, including waste oils, with a PCB content of more than 0.005% are prohibited.

PCBs are designated as PIC chemicals. (Annex I of the Regulation on the import and export of certain dangerous chemical substances and preparations on the Bulgarian territory). The chemicals are listed in Annex II of this Regulation as prohibited for export from and import into the country.

The reasons for the final regulatory action were relevant to: Human health and environment

Summary of known hazards and risks to the environment:

Contamination, bioaccumulation and persistence in the environment.

Expected effect of the final regulatory action in relation to the environment:

Reduction of the risk and exposure for the environment

Date of entry into force of the final regulatory action: 01/01/2003