Pretoria: The Department of Forestry, Fisheries, and Environment (DFFE) has issued a warning urging the public to avoid the use of transformer oil or any electrical equipment oil for non-industrial purposes, particularly on the body.

According to South African Government News Agency, these oils may contain Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs), which are toxic chemicals posing significant risks to human health and the environment. PCBs, a group of man-made organic chemicals, were commonly produced between 1929 and 1989. They were extensively utilized as coolants in oil-containing electrical equipment such as transformers and capacitors, as well as in hydraulic systems and other industrial applications.

The chemicals found use in energy-intensive sectors including mining, paper and pulp, power generation and distribution, and chemicals. During discussions with municipalities in 2024, the department discovered dangerous misconceptions in some communities, such as the belief that transformer oil could be used to treat conditions like rheumatic arthritis. This has led to municipal officials receiving requests for access to transformer oil, some of which may contain harmful PCBs.

The DFFE strongly advises against this practice and urges municipal officials not to provide transformer oil to the public. Despite being banned in many countries decades ago due to their toxic impacts, PCBs continue to be a persistent threat, particularly in older equipment and contaminated sites.

Studies have indicated that PCBs can cause a range of health issues, including immune, reproductive, neurological, and endocrine system problems, and are considered possible human carcinogens. In 2014, South Africa implemented the Regulations to phase out the use of PCBs and PCB-contaminated materials. These regulations outlined the requirements for phasing out PCB materials, allowing the country to progress towards eliminating these hazardous chemicals as relevant sectors worked towards achieving national phase-out targets.

Currently, a project is underway to support municipalities in eliminating the use of PCBs in their equipment, further safeguarding public health and the environment.