Environmental Management Assistance Program
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Dry Cleaning

Dry-cleaning facilities using perchloroethylene (perc) have been strictly regulated for air emissions, hazardous waste and spills. Perc is a hazardous air pollutant and known carcinogen toxic to humans and the environment.

Perchloroethylene (Perc) dry-cleaning facilities

The perc NESHAP was implemented in the early 1990s, and has been amended or updated by EPA to reduce perc emissions and protect worker health and the environment. As a result, EPA estimates its most recent rule reduced perc emissions by an estimated 5,700 tons per year. Today most dry cleaners are moving away from perc and using less-toxic alternatives. At a minimum, perc dry cleaners must comply with the following: 

  • File an initial notification for the perc NESHAP. 
  • Use modern dry-to-dry machines equipped with a refrigerated condenser or equivalent control device. 
  • Inspect the system weekly for perc leaks, using a perc gas analyzer for this inspection at least once each month. 
  • Maintain records of perc purchases and monthly perc purchase running totals. 
  • Repair or address any air leaks within 24 hours. 
  • Manage all separator-water issues. 
  • Maintain records for at least five years.

2023 Dry Cleaner Compliance Calendar

Download a copy of the latest Pennsylvania DEP dry cleaner compliance calendar.  EMAP does have some paper versions of the calendar, so please contact us if you would like a hard copy version.

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Jeremy Hancher is the EMAP Program Manager located at the Widener University SBDC.  He holds over 15 years of experience in environmental compliance, environmental policy, and program management.  He is proud to be the team lead of the award-winning EMAP program which provides free and confidential environmental assistance to the Pennsylvania small business community in fulfillment of the requirements of the Pennsylvania Air Pollution Control Act and Section 507 of the federal Clean Air Act.
In 2015, Jeremy was part of the team effort when EMAP was recognized by US EPA Administrator Gina McCarthy for Outstanding Accomplishments by a State Small Business Environmental Assistance Provider in Providing Technical Environmental Assistance to the Small Business Community. Jeremy holds a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Pittsburgh, a Master’s degree from the University of Pennsylvania, and a certificate from the Wharton School.
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