National Perchloroethylene Air Emission Standards for Dry Cleaning Facilities

The EPA is proposing revised standards to limit emissions of perchloroethylene (PCE) from existing and new dry cleaning facilities. In 1993, EPA promulgated technology-based emission standards to control emissions of PCE from dry cleaning facilities. As required by section 112(d)(6) of the Clean Air Act (CAA), EPA has reviewed the standards and is proposing revisions to take into account new developments in production practices, processes, and control technologies. In addition, pursuant to CAA section 112(f), EPA has evaluated the remaining risk to public health and the environment following implementation of the technology-based rule and is proposing more stringent standards in order to protect public health with an ample margin of safety. The proposed standards are expected to provide further reductions of PCE beyond the 1993 national emission standards for hazardous air pollutants (NESHAP), based on application of equipment and work practice standards.