FAQs: PCB Oil Testing, Registration and Disposal for the December 2025 Deadline

Wed 01/15/2025 - 14:11

As part of the UK government's ongoing efforts to regulate and phase out polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), owners of transformers, capacitors, and other oil-containing assets face important deadlines and requirements in 2025.

The regulations aim to ensure safe handling, registration, and eventual disposal of any equipment containing PCB-contaminated oils. To help businesses and asset owners navigate these rules, we've put together this FAQ covering the key details you need to know about PCB testing, registration, and disposal procedures.

SOCOTEC UK can test for PCB content in oils, to ensure compliance with regulations. Our services include full chemical, physical, and microbiological analysis of in-use lubricants and fuels.

What You Need to Know

According to the UK government guidance, owners of transformers and other oil-containing assets must have the oil tested for PCB content by the end of this year (2025)

If the oil is found to contain:

More than 0.005% but no more than 0.05% PCBs by weight, AND
A total volume of more than 0.05 litres (0.05 dm3) of PCBs Then the asset must be registered and can be used until the end of 2025.

After December 31, 2025, transformers and other assets with oil containing over 0.005% PCBs by weight cannot be used anymore. They must be decontaminated and disposed of as soon as possible.

Yes, if the oil is tested and found to contain 0.005% or less PCBs by weight, OR the total PCB volume is 0.05 liters or less, then the asset can continue to be used until the end of its normal service life.

Owners must decontaminate or dispose of any PCBs as outlined in the "Dispose of PCBs" section of the government guidance. This includes using licensed waste contractors for proper handling and disposal.