Dry Cleaning Safety

Image of laundromat worker

Hazards such as chemical, fire, and ergonomic-related are associated with dry cleaning processes. Exposure to hazardous chemicals commonly used in dry cleaning shops may occur through skin absorption, eye contact, or inhalation of the vapors. Perchloroethylene (PERC), a potential human carcinogen, is the most commonly used dry cleaning solvent. Symptoms associated with exposure include: depression of the central nervous system; damage to the liver and kidneys; impaired memory; confusion; dizziness; headache; drowsiness; and eye, nose, and throat irritation. Repeated dermal exposure may result in dermatitis.

A comparison of drycleaning and laundry industries shows the rate of injuries varied among industries in 2021. Employees in drycleaning and laundry services had an average injury rate of 3.2 per 100 full-time workers, employees in linen and uniform supply suffered an average injury rate of 4.3 per 100 full-time workers, and employees working for industrial launderers suffered an average injury rate of 3.3 per 100 full-time workers.

Courses For Your Industry

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Programs to Consider

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Please note: Our training courses provide essential general knowledge awareness training about each topic, however an employer must provide training for the specific equipment, policies, and procedures in use at their work site(s).

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