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EPA Finalizes Rules to Phase Out Hazardous Solvents TCE and PCE

Written by Jeremy on . Posted in Breaking News, Regulatory Updates. No Comments on EPA Finalizes Rules to Phase Out Hazardous Solvents TCE and PCE

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has finalized rules to phase out the use of two hazardous solvents: trichloroethylene (TCE) and perchloroethylene (PCE). These actions aim to protect public health and the environment by significantly reducing exposure to these chemicals.

The TCE ban prohibits most uses within a year, including those in consumer products. Limited workplace exceptions will be phased out over a longer period, with stringent worker safety requirements in place, including a revised inhalation exposure limit to reduce workplace exposure by 97%. The rule also allows for essential laboratory use and proper disposal of TCE wastewater for 50 years to support cleanup activities.

For PCE, the rule includes a 10-year phase-out for dry cleaning to protect workers and customers. Manufacturing, processing, and distribution of PCE for most consumer and industrial uses will be significantly reduced within three years. Stringent workplace controls will be mandated for continuing uses, while support for small businesses, such as dry cleaners, will be provided through compliance guidance and potential funding opportunities.

Small businesses interested in this new development can learn more about EPA’s actions on perchloroethylene (PCE) and trichloroethylene (TCE).

EPA will host a public webinar on January 15, 2025, to explain the PCE final rule and its implementation.

Proposed Rulemaking for Dry Cleaning Facilities

Written by mike on . Posted in Breaking News, Regulatory Updates. No Comments on Proposed Rulemaking for Dry Cleaning Facilities

EPA has proposed amendments to the National Perchloroethylene Air Emission Standards for Dry Cleaning Facilities. This proposal would add provisions which would require all dry-to-dry machines at new and existing facilities to have both refrigerated condensers and carbon adsorbers as secondary controls.
The request for comment period is currently open.  EPA seeks comments and information regarding the number of third generation and earlier model dry cleaning machines that potentially could still be in operation.  In addition, EPA seeks information on dry cleaning practices, processes, and control technologies that could reduce emissions from hazardous air pollutions, or HAPs, for fourth generation (or better) dry cleaning machines.
A copy of the rule summary, the new proposed rule, and fact sheets can be found here.
General speaking, most dry cleaning facilities and operations are small businesses.  Estimates from EPA report that there are approximately 10,000 to 15,000 perchloroethylene dry cleaning facilities in the United States.  Unfortunately, due to the COVID-19 pandemic it is estimated that 10-15% of perc dry cleaners have closed.

Jeremy Hancher

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.