Does your company make use of transformers with PCBs? The same chemical that made your transformers durable might also make them a significant hazard when it's time for disposal. Here's why your company should work to recycle any transformers on its property so that they don't end up in a local landfill.

Polychlorinated Biphenyls Are a Problem

Some old transformers may include PCBs in the coils. These chemicals are designed to ensure they won't break down during extreme temperatures. It's part of what might have made your transformer last as many years as it did. But once it is time to move on, the fact that PCBs exist is no longer a good thing. If this substance gets into the local landfill or water supply, you are going to have an issue on your hands.

Avoid Negative Publicity

If you dispose of PCB or another toxic or hazardous substance in a transformer and the media or local community finds out about it, you might have a PR nightmare on your hands. No company wants its name in the newspaper unless it's for a new product announcement or something else positive. If you are careless when disposing of your transformers and a hazardous chemical leaks into the environment, there's a chance it's going to get linked back to your company, and then you will be in trouble.

Avoid a Fine

PR issues can tank a company's reputation. But don't forget that in addition to the opinion of the local community, you may also have to deal with the local government. If there is a major issue with a chemical spill and an investigation is done, your company might get fined by government officials for being responsible for an environmental disaster. If your company hasn't already made headlines at this point, you can be sure that government action in this area will get people talking about you, and they'll be saying all the wrong things.

Recycle Precious Metals

You likely don't need much extra incentive at this point to make sure you recycle your old transformers. But if it helps, know that you actually do stand to gain something positive by recycling transformers and that's a little extra dough for your bottom line. Transformer recycling may help you obtain precious metals you can then turn into cold, hard cash. It might not be a ton of money, but it's still something and you can think of it as a reward for doing the right thing for your company, your community, and the environment.