Perc, or perchloroethylene, is a chemical solvent used in conventional dry cleaning, classified as a probable human carcinogen by the EPA. It poses health risks including skin and respiratory irritation, and long-term exposure may lead to liver damage and cancer. Alternatives like green earth solvents and silicone are available to reduce the health and environmental impact of dry cleaning.

1. WHAT IS PERC?
IS IT HARMFUL?

2. Conventional Dry Cleaning - An
Overview
 Conventional dry
cleaning uses chemical
solvents instead of
water.
 Petroleum-based solvents
dissolve dirt and
stains.
 Garments are dried to
evaporate the solvent.

3. Introduction to PERC
 PERC (Perchloroethylene) is a
chemical solvent used in dry
cleaning.
 Also known as
tetrachloroethylene, it is a
colorless liquid with a sweet
odor.
 Widely used since the 1950s for
its effectiveness in removing
soil and stains.

4. Is PERC Harmful?
 PERC is classified as a
probable human carcinogen by
the EPA.
 The International Agency for
Research on Cancer
classifies it as a Group 2A
carcinogen.
 Exposure to PERC can occur
through inhalation, skin
contact, and eye contact.

5. Health Effects of PERC
 PERC can irritate the skin,
eyes, and respiratory system.
 High levels of exposure can
increase the risk of cancer.
 Proper precautions, such as
removing contaminated clothing
and washing affected areas,
are essential.

6. PERC Exposure
 Inhalation and dermal
absorption are common routes
of exposure.
 Dry cleaning workers are at
risk due to the use of PERC.
 Occupational exposure measured
as high as 59 parts per
million (ppm).

7. Primary Sources of PERC Exposure
 Perc-containing cleaning
solutions release vapors into
the air.
 Wastewater from cleaning
processes can contaminate the
environment.
 The drying process releases
PERC into the air.

8. Secondary Sources of PERC Exposure
 Perc fumes can accumulate when
dry-cleaned clothing is hung
in enclosed spaces.
 Workers handling dry cleaned
clothing can be exposed
without proper ventilation or
protective clothing.

9. Health Effects of PERC
 PERC exposure associated with
deficits in color vision and
neuropsychological function.
 Short-term exposure can cause
eye and respiratory
irritation, dizziness, and
nausea.
 Long-term exposure linked to
liver damage, kidney damage,
and certain types of cancer.

10. Alternatives to PERC
 Green Earth solvents made from
vegetables and minerals are
environmentally friendly.
 Silicone is a non-flammable,
non-toxic alternative for dry
cleaning.

11. Reducing PERC Exposure
 Ensure well-ventilated dry
cleaning facilities.
 Promptly remove clothing from
machines to minimize exposure.
 Allow dry-cleaned clothing to
air out before wearing.

12. Regulations and Guidelines
 PERC is regulated by OSHA,
FDA, and EPA.
 Guidelines include the clean
water act, air toxic
requirements, and pollution
prevention technology.

13. Conclusion
• PERC is a chemical solvent used in dry cleaning with
potential health risks.
• Understanding the sources of exposure and adopting
alternatives can help protect workers and the
environment.

14. THANK YOU
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