OSHA has published new guidance aimed at protecting workers in the dry-cleaning industry.

The doucment is called Reducing Worker Exposures to Perchloroethylene in Dry-Cleaning. Perchloroethylene is a commonly used chemical in the dry-cleaning industry that can pose serious health hazards.

"This booklet provides practical and effective guidance on ways for dry-cleaning operators to reduce worker exposure to perchloroethylene," says Jonathan L. Snare, acting OSHA chief. "Reducing exposure to this potentially hazardous chemical is emphasized through a combination of preventive maintenance and control of leaks in dry-cleaning equipment, proper ventilation, and good work practices."

Perchloroethylene is a volatile organic chemical that can cause serious health hazards. Dry-cleaning workers who routinely breathe the solvent's vapors or spill it on their skin are at risk of developing health problems, including skin, liver, and kidney damage, and possibly cancer, according to OSHA. The inhalation of the chemical has been shown to cause numerous health effects such as dizziness, loss of coordination, memory loss, and blistering of skin.

The new document provides information on the health hazards and current regulations, as well as recommendations on methods for reducing worker exposures. It also provides information on training, personal protective equipment, and some of the new technologies available in the dry cleaning industry.

The publication also addresses how good work practices can greatly minimize worker exposure to percholoroethylene vapors.