Ecology offering up to $20K to help replace lights that hide toxic chemicals

Old fluorescent light fixtures in schools and daycares can be harmful to students and staff. In 1979, the U.S. finally took action against the dangers of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), banning the use of PCBs in manufacturing.

Since then, Washington has worked to identify and remove remaining PCBs from public buildings. This includes older fluorescent lights containing PCBs, commonly found in schools and daycare centers, that increase exposure risk for children and teachers.

With capital funding from the Legislature, we help schools upgrade to newer and more energy efficient lighting. This product replacement project helps cover costs of an inspection, replacement lights, and proper disposal of the old lights through a licensed dangerous waste hauler.

"We've already helped the Reardan-Edwall School District transition to safer lighting fixtures," said Sean Smith, who leads Ecology's work to implement the product replacement program. "We found and safely removed 30 light ballasts in that one project. We're eager to help more facilities make the switch."

The not-so-bright side of old fixtures

PCB exposure is harmful to human health and the environment. Often used in fluorescent lights between 1950 and 1980, PCBs could be in the liquid stored inside the capacitors and ballast casing.

Fluorescent light ballasts are rectangular units tucked inside the fixtures that control the current to the bulb. While it's an important part of the light design, it's an outdated and dangerous way to build a light. Aging light ballasts release low levels of PCBs and can be even more dangerous if they leak. PCBs stay in the environment a long time and can cause cancer, immune and nervous system problems, and impair growth and development.

Applying for assistance

Our program can reimburse schools and daycare centers up to $20,000 for approved lighting replacement projects, which includes identifying if schools have these dangerous ballasts.

Schools that want to make the switch to safer lighting can:

• Email Ecology's project coordinator directly at [email protected].
• Learn more about our PCB light replacement project.

Making the switch to newer, more efficient LED lighting saves energy and helps make your school and the environment healthier.