Removal Plan for Safe Disposal of PCB-Containing Transformers

Challenge

The client, a liquid-petroleum transportation service company, required assistance with disposal of polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB)-containing transformers at three pump stations. These sites were undergoing upgrades and equipment replacement, which required removal of several electric transformers containing PCB oil. A removal plan had been developed based on previous projects that required transformers and drums to be placed in a roll-off for removal.

Solution

GES was engaged to remove the hazardous transformers from these sites for disposal at an approved PCB disposal facility. When the truck driver arrived on site to remove the items, the GES site supervisor conducted a last-minute risk assessment (LMRA), and after a discussion with the driver, determined that a different approach was needed for removing the items from each site. Using the roll-off for removal could have caused damage to the drums and transformers, resulting in a release of PCB oil. A “Stop Work” order was initiated, and following a discussion with GES project management, the removal plan was amended so that a better approach of securing the transformers onto a flatbed truck and securing the drums inside a covered box truck was developed and implemented for removing the equipment.

Benefits

The GES site supervisor strictly complied with GES’ health, safety, security, and environment (HSSE) and Loss Prevention System (LPS) behavior-based safety expectations. GES and the removal staff performed a thorough LMRA prior to loading the transformers and drums into a roll-off. They recognized the hazards, initiated “Stop Work”, and determined the correct mitigation actions. GES then took the appropriate steps to ensure safe removal operations at the sites.