How to Prevent Risks from PERC in Industrial Dry Cleaning
PERC, also known as perchloroethylene or tetrachloroethylene, has been widely used as a solvent in dry cleaning. Its ability to dissolve oils and remove certain types of stains has made it an important cleaning solvent for professional dry cleaning operations.
However, working with PERC requires appropriate control measures. Workers may be exposed to the chemical by inhaling solvent vapours or through skin contact, particularly during machine operation, garment handling, spotting, solvent transfer and equipment maintenance.
Risk prevention depends not only on the chemical being used but also on equipment design, machine condition, leak control, ventilation and safe work practices.
When PERC Exposure May Occur
Potential exposure to PERC may occur during different stages of dry cleaning operations. Activities that require particular attention include:
- Loading and unloading garments from dry cleaning machines.
- Performing manual spot cleaning.
- Transferring solvent from storage containers to equipment.
- Cleaning filters, lint traps and machine components.
- Replacing filters or carrying out maintenance work.
- Handling waste and residues generated during operation.
Identifying situations with a higher potential for exposure helps dry cleaning facilities develop appropriate work procedures and implement suitable control measures.
Use Appropriate Equipment and Control Leaks
Equipment plays an important role in limiting the release of solvent vapours into the workplace. Modern dry cleaning systems may incorporate improved vapour control compared with older equipment.
Machines should be inspected and maintained regularly to identify potential leaks. Components such as door seals, pipes, valves, filters and solvent recovery systems should be checked according to the manufacturer's recommendations.
Leaks should be addressed as soon as they are identified, as even small leaks over time may increase the amount of solvent released into the working environment.
Maintain Effective Ventilation
Ventilation is an important engineering measure for reducing solvent vapour concentrations in the workplace. Ventilation systems should be designed according to the characteristics of the operating area and potential sources of chemical vapours.
Capturing and controlling vapours close to their source can be more effective than relying only on general ventilation for the entire work area. Ventilation systems should also be inspected and maintained regularly to ensure continued performance.
Ventilation should not be considered the only control measure. Better risk control can be achieved when ventilation is combined with appropriate equipment, leak prevention and safe work practices.
Establish Safe Work Procedures
Work procedures directly affect the level of chemical exposure. Employees should be trained in equipment operation, solvent handling, machine cleaning and maintenance procedures.
Important practices include:
- Following the manufacturer's operating and maintenance instructions.
- Avoiding unauthorized changes to operating procedures.
- Responding to leaks and incidents according to established procedures.
- Checking equipment condition regularly.
- Keeping work areas clean and limiting the accumulation of solvents or waste.
- Training employees about potential hazards and safe chemical handling practices.
Where engineering and work practice controls cannot adequately reduce exposure, personal protective equipment may be used as an additional measure.
Provide Appropriate Personal Protective Equipment
Workers handling chemicals should be provided with personal protective equipment appropriate for their specific tasks. Equipment selection should take into account the chemical involved, the type of potential exposure and workplace safety requirements.
Personal protective equipment does not replace source control or effective ventilation. It is an additional measure when exposure risks remain during work activities.
Prevent Other Risks in Dry Cleaning Facilities
In addition to chemical exposure, dry cleaning operations may involve other hazards, including fire risks, equipment-related injuries and ergonomic problems.
Repeated activities such as transferring laundry, hanging garments, pressing and packaging may place stress on muscles and joints. Appropriate worktable height, garment handling systems and supporting equipment can help reduce excessive reaching, bending and repetitive lifting.
Facilities using flammable solvents should also pay particular attention to heat sources, electrical equipment and fire prevention requirements.
Alternatives to PERC Dry Cleaning
In addition to improving equipment and work practices to control PERC exposure, dry cleaning facilities may consider alternative cleaning methods. The most appropriate solution depends on the type of garments, required cleaning quality, investment capability and operating conditions of each facility.
Professional Wet Cleaning
Professional wet cleaning uses water together with specially controlled chemicals and processes to treat garments that are suitable for this method. The process may include controlled mechanical action, temperature management and monitoring of heat and moisture during drying.
This method can help reduce the use of PERC for certain garments. However, not every garment labelled for dry cleaning is suitable for the same wet cleaning process. The appropriate cleaning method should still be determined according to fabric characteristics and the manufacturer's care instructions.
Hydrocarbon-Based Cleaning Systems
Some dry cleaning facilities use hydrocarbon-based solvent systems as an alternative to PERC. These systems have their own operating characteristics and safety requirements, particularly regarding solvent flammability.
Changing to another solvent does not mean that all risks are eliminated. Facilities should carefully assess equipment requirements, ventilation, fire protection and operating procedures before selecting an alternative cleaning system.
Other Cleaning Technologies
In addition to professional wet cleaning and hydrocarbon-based solvents, other cleaning systems are also available or under development. Depending on operating conditions, businesses may consider other suitable cleaning technologies that meet their technical requirements and applicable local regulations.
Conclusion
PERC has been and continues to be an important dry cleaning solvent in many operations, but its use requires appropriate control measures. Modern equipment, preventive maintenance, leak control, effective ventilation, safe work practices and employee training are important factors in reducing potential exposure.
For dry cleaning facilities, the decision to continue using PERC with appropriate controls or to transition to alternative cleaning methods should be evaluated according to garment requirements, available technology, investment costs and workplace safety considerations.
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