VT PCBs in Schools PCB Data Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
General FAQs
This FAQ covers frequently asked questions of data collected by the Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) and Department of Health’s PCBs in School program. A general FAQ of the project is available at the
VT PCBs in Schools main webpage.
Why are no results available for my school?
If you do not see results for a school, that means samples have not been collected for that school or results are still in review by state agencies. A list of schools currently scheduled for testing can be found on the
VT PCBs in Schools
main webpage.
What does N/A mean?
N/A stands for Not Available.
What data was collected?
Indoor air was sampled for Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) which are found in building materials used in buildings bult or renovated before 1980. Sampling followed the technical guidence found on the
VT PCBs in Schools
main webpage.
What are Vermont’s School Action Levels (SAL)?
In Vermont, the school action levels are different depending on the lowest grade of students in the school. They are:
- 30 ng/m3 for pre-K
- 60 ng/m3 for kindergarten to 6th grade
- 100 ng/m3 for 7th grade to adult
ng/m3 = nanograms per cubic meter
More information about the health effects of PCBs can be found on Vermont Department of Health’s PCB webpage.
What are the next steps if my school’s results are above the SAL?
If results are above the SAL state agencies and the school will work to determine next steps. See the general FAQ for details.
Who do I contact if my question isn’t answered here?