Capacitors containing PCB were labelled as containing "Askarel" and several other trade names.

However, many products containing PCB's are found throughout the country and many PCB disposal sites still have not been cleaned up.

They were contaminated last month when a power surge caused electrical transformers containing PCB's in several campus buildings, including two dormitories, to overheat.

But based on information so far, he said, it appears that most older appliances probably do not contain PCB's in their capacitors, as not all manufacturers used the substance.

They may contain PCB's, which accumulate in the human body and may be harmful to a fetus or a growing child.

Soil at the site contained PCB's, oil and pesticides, Mr. Vicente said.

Federal law requires transformers containing PCB's to be clearly marked, registered with local fire companies and to include protective devices to limit electrical current.

Compressors Drained in 1977 Lubricants containing PCB's were once widely used in transformers, compressors and other machines because they were fire-retardant.

On Dec. 29, transformers containing PCB's in those buildings and three dormitories overheated after a car struck a utility pole, causing a power surge.

But many products containing PCB's are still found around the country and many dump sites containing PCB wastes have not been cleaned up.