Perc Safety Tips for Cleaners: Protecting Health and the Environment in Dry Cleaning
Perchloroethylene, commonly called perc, has been the cornerstone solvent in dry cleaning for decades. Its powerful grease- and oil-dissolving properties make it highly effective, but perc also poses potential health and environmental risks if mishandled. For professional dry cleaners, understanding and implementing proper safety protocols is essential to protect employees, customers, and the environment.
This article provides comprehensive perc safety tips for cleaners, covering proper handling, equipment use, regulatory compliance, and environmental precautions.
Perc Safety Tips for Cleaners
Understanding the Risks of Perc
Before discussing safety measures, it’s important to understand why perc requires careful handling.
Health Hazards
Perc exposure can occur through inhalation, skin contact, or accidental ingestion. Key risks include:
Respiratory irritation, dizziness, and headaches
Skin and eye irritation
Potential long-term effects with chronic exposure, including liver and kidney damage
Possible links to cancer with prolonged high-level exposure
Modern dry cleaning equipment reduces vapor exposure, but proper safety protocols are essential.
Environmental Concerns
Perc is a volatile organic compound (VOC) and a potential soil and groundwater contaminant. Spills, leaks, or improper disposal can have long-term environmental impacts and legal consequences.
Proper Storage and Handling of Perc
One of the first steps in maintaining safety is proper solvent storage and handling.
Storage Guidelines
Use approved containers: Store perc in tightly sealed, labeled containers approved for chlorinated solvents.
Maintain cool, ventilated storage: Keep perc away from heat sources and direct sunlight to prevent vapor buildup.
Secondary containment: Use spill trays or cabinets to contain leaks and prevent environmental contamination.
Limit quantities: Only store the amount necessary for daily operations to minimize risk.
Handling Best Practices
Wear appropriate PPE: Gloves, goggles, and protective clothing reduce skin and eye contact.
Avoid direct inhalation: Use closed-loop systems or adequate ventilation when handling solvent.
No eating or drinking near perc: Prevent accidental ingestion.
Minimize spills: Use funnels, pumps, or automated systems when transferring solvent.
Safe Use in Dry Cleaning Machines
Proper operation of dry cleaning machines is critical to perc safety.
Closed-Loop Systems
Modern perc machines use closed-loop technology, which captures vapor emissions and recycles solvent. Benefits include:
Reduced worker exposure to harmful vapors
Minimization of environmental emissions
Improved efficiency and solvent lifespan
Routine Maintenance
Regular maintenance ensures both safety and performance:
Inspect gaskets, seals, and filters for leaks
Clean lint traps and carbon filters to prevent solvent contamination
Service the distillation unit to maintain proper recycling of perc
Proper Loading and Unloading
Load garments carefully to avoid overfilling, which can lead to spills
Ensure garments are free of excess water or foreign objects
Remove clothes gently after cleaning to reduce solvent loss and exposure
Ventilation and Air Quality Control
Effective ventilation is critical for maintaining safe working conditions.
Local Exhaust Ventilation
Install localized exhaust systems near solvent transfer points and machine exhaust vents to capture vapor at the source.
General Ventilation
Maintain consistent airflow throughout the facility to prevent vapor buildup. Proper air exchange reduces the risk of chronic exposure.
Air Monitoring
Regularly monitor air quality for perc levels, especially in areas where workers spend significant time. Continuous monitoring helps ensure compliance with OSHA and local regulations.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Wearing the right PPE is a cornerstone of perc safety.
Gloves and Protective Clothing
Use chemical-resistant gloves, such as nitrile or neoprene
Wear aprons or long sleeves to protect skin from splashes
Ensure clothing is cleaned or replaced regularly to prevent solvent absorption
Eye and Respiratory Protection
Safety goggles prevent accidental eye contact
Respirators may be required when ventilation is insufficient or during spill cleanup
Spill Response and Emergency Procedures
Even with proper precautions, spills can occur. Having a plan in place is essential.
Immediate Response
Evacuate non-essential personnel
Contain the spill with absorbent materials or secondary containment
Avoid using water unless specifically recommended, as perc is not water-soluble
Cleanup and Disposal
Use approved absorbents and collection methods for perc
Store waste solvent in designated containers for disposal or recycling
Never pour perc down drains or into the environment
Training and Compliance
Well-trained staff are the most effective line of defense against perc hazards.
Employee Training
Educate workers on solvent hazards, PPE use, and spill response
Provide refresher courses regularly to maintain awareness
Regulatory Compliance
Follow OSHA standards for chemical exposure and workplace safety
Comply with EPA regulations for VOC emissions and waste disposal
Maintain records of solvent use, training, and maintenance for inspections
Minimizing Exposure and Long-Term Risks
Consistent safety practices reduce both immediate and long-term risks.
Workplace Practices
Rotate tasks to limit individual exposure
Use automated solvent handling systems where possible
Ensure proper housekeeping to prevent residual solvent accumulation
Health Monitoring
Regular medical check-ups and monitoring for employees who handle perc can detect early signs of exposure, ensuring prompt intervention.
Alternatives to Reduce Perc Dependence
Some businesses choose to gradually reduce perc use to further improve safety.
Green Solvents
Hydrocarbon, silicone-based, and liquid CO₂ solvents offer lower toxicity and fewer emissions.
Professional Wet Cleaning
Wet cleaning eliminates chemical solvent exposure entirely while maintaining garment care standards.
Hybrid Approaches
Some operations use perc for challenging stains but integrate green solvents or wet cleaning for less soiled garments, balancing performance with safety.
Conclusion: Ensuring Safe Perc Use in Dry Cleaning
Perc remains a powerful tool in the dry cleaning industry, but its benefits come with potential risks. Following proper safety tips—including correct storage, handling, ventilation, PPE, spill response, and regulatory compliance—protects workers, customers, and the environment.
By investing in training, modern equipment, and thoughtful operational practices, dry cleaners can continue to use perc effectively while minimizing hazards. For businesses considering the long-term future, integrating green solvents and alternative cleaning methods can further reduce risks and align operations with evolving environmental and consumer expectations.
Safe perc practices are not just regulatory requirements—they are essential for sustainable, profitable, and responsible dry cleaning operations.