Do Your Fluorescent Ballasts Contain PCBs? What Businesses Need to Know
Many commercial buildings across Washington still operate fluorescent lighting systems installed decades ago. While most organizations focus on lamp recycling, fewer realize that the ballasts inside older fixtures may contain hazardous materials.
If your facility was built or renovated before 1979, your fluorescent ballasts could contain PCBs — and that creates compliance and environmental responsibility requirements.
Understanding ballast recycling is critical for protecting your organization and the environment.
What Is a Ballast?
A ballast regulates the electrical current that powers fluorescent lamps. It is typically housed inside the light fixture and operates continuously while the light is on.
Ballasts manufactured before 1979 often contained polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), a chemical compound once used for insulation and fire resistance.
PCBs were later banned due to their environmental persistence and health risks.
Why PCBs Are a Concern
PCBs are classified as toxic and environmentally hazardous. If released through improper disposal, leaking, or breakage, they can contaminate:
• Soil
• Water
• Air
• Building surfaces
Improper disposal of PCB-containing ballasts may result in regulatory violations and costly cleanup requirements.
Even non-PCB ballasts contain electronic components that should not enter regular waste streams.
How to Tell If a Ballast Contains PCBs
In general:
• Ballasts manufactured before 1979 likely contain PCBs
• Ballasts labeled “No PCBs” were manufactured after the ban
• Unlabeled ballasts should be assumed to contain PCBs unless verified
When upgrading lighting systems or conducting maintenance, facilities should treat older ballasts cautiously and plan for proper recycling.
Risks of Improper Ballast Disposal
Improper handling of fluorescent ballasts can lead to:
• Environmental contamination
• Workplace safety concerns
• Regulatory penalties
• Liability exposure during audits or inspections
Throwing ballasts in the trash is not a compliant solution.
Proper Fluorescent Ballast Recycling
Professional ballast recycling ensures:
• Safe collection and transport
• Separation of hazardous components
• Recovery of recyclable metals
• Responsible disposal of PCB materials
• Documentation if required
During LED retrofit projects, it is especially important to account for ballast removal as part of the recycling plan.
Lighting upgrades generate more than just old lamps — ballasts must be addressed as well.
Integrating Ballast Recycling into LED Retrofits
When replacing fluorescent systems with LED lighting, organizations should:
• Identify the age of existing fixtures
• Separate lamps from ballasts
• Plan for proper hazardous material handling
• Coordinate recycling pickup before project start
This prevents job-site clutter, reduces breakage risk, and supports environmental compliance.
Ballast Recycling Services from EcoLights
EcoLights provides commercial ballast recycling services throughout Washington.
Services support:
• Contractors and electricians
• Property managers
• Schools and universities
• Healthcare facilities
• Municipal departments
By combining lamp recycling and ballast recycling into one streamlined process, facilities can ensure full compliance during lighting upgrades and maintenance.
Responsible recycling protects your organization, your community, and the environment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do all fluorescent ballasts contain PCBs?
No. Ballasts manufactured after 1979 were produced without PCBs. However, older or unlabeled units should be handled cautiously.
Can ballasts go in the trash?
No. Ballasts contain electronic and potentially hazardous components that require proper recycling.
Should ballasts be removed during LED upgrades?
Yes. Ballast removal and recycling should be included in any fluorescent-to-LED conversion project.
Contact Us if you have any questions regarding ballasts.