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Hazards in Commercial Dry Cleaners

The dry-cleaning process uses several solvents rather than water to clean clothes and fabrics. These substances include perchloroethylene, petroleum naphtha, hydrogen peroxide, acetic acid, mineral spirits, ammonia and other chlorinated solvents. Several hazards, such as chemical exposure and fire, are associated with the commercial dry-cleaning process and present risks to employees, customers, commercial property inspectors and nearby residents.

  1. Perchloroethylene

    • Perchloroethylene, also known as "perc," is a potential human carcinogen and is the most commonly used drying cleaning solvent, according to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). Exposure to perc causes a wide range of symptoms that include eye, throat and nose irritation; damage to the liver and kidneys; depression of the central nervous system; memory impairment; confusion; headaches; dizziness; and drowsiness. Exposure occurs through inhalation of vapors, eye contact and skin absorption. Repeated skin contact can cause dermatitis.

    Hazardous Waste and Waste Water

    • Commercial dry cleaners generate perc-based waste. Hazardous waste includes spent cartridges, lint trap wastes, still bottom residue and cooked powder residue. Occasionally, a dry cleaner may also have to dispose of unused perc. Wastewater of concern is known as "separator water" because it contains perc.

    Fire Concerns

    • Commercial dry cleaners can generate frictional or static sparks, which can occur near the highly flammable garments, chemical solvents and accumulated lint. Smoking on or near the premises can also create a fire hazard.

    Residential Concerns

    • Air emission from the dry cleaners is a residential concern because it releases perc vapors into the atmosphere. This release occurs during the transfer of treated clothes from the washer to the dryer and the release of chemicals into the air. When chemicals become airborne, even people in nearby buildings are at risk of inhaling and absorbing the chemicals. Perc vapors can pass through the wall, ceiling and floor materials. The term "co-located" describes commercial cleaners located in the same building as other residences and businesses. The resulting high levels of perc create a potential cancer risk for residents, according to the Environment, Health and Safety Online website.

    The Environment

    • Perc can get into the ground, air and water during the waste disposal process. When it enters the ground as a liquid, perc is toxic to plants and considered a hazardous waste by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Outdoors, perc can remain in the environment for a number of weeks, after which time it will break down into other chemicals. Some of these chemicals are toxic, and some may contribute to the depletion of the ozone layer. A small quantity of perc can contaminate groundwater and drinking water, and it may be toxic to aquatic animals.

    Equipment Used

    • Equipment used in a commercial dry-cleaning establishment also pose safety hazards that can cause punctures, burns, slips and falls. Additionally, workers can become overheated from working in such a hot environment. Equipment used includes finishing and pressing machines, automated clothing conveyors, degreasing machines, bagging devices, mending and tailoring areas, as well as enhanced cooling and ventilation systems.

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