What is the ACGIH TLV of perchloroethylene vapor?

04/21/2023

Perchloroethylene, also known as tetrachloroethylene or “perc,” is a commonly used chemical solvent in various industrial processes, particularly in dry cleaning and metal degreasing. As with any chemical substance, it’s crucial to understand its potential health risks and establish safety guidelines for exposure. One such guideline is the ACGIH TLV, which plays a significant role in protecting workers and ensuring a safe working environment when dealing with perchloroethylene vapor.

Understanding Perchloroethylene and its Risks

Perchloroethylene is a colorless liquid with a distinct, slightly sweet odor. It’s widely used due to its excellent solvent properties and stability. However, prolonged exposure to perchloroethylene vapor can pose health hazards. Inhalation of vapor or skin contact with the liquid can lead to various health effects, including irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat, as well as dizziness, headaches, and in severe cases, damage to the liver and kidneys.

ACGIH TLV of Perchloroethylene Vapor

The ACGIH TLV, or the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists Threshold Limit Value, is a guideline that defines the acceptable exposure level for workers to airborne concentrations of hazardous substances like perchloroethylene. The TLV is typically expressed as a time-weighted average (TWA) concentration over an 8-hour workday. It’s important to note that the TLV is not a legally binding standard but serves as a valuable reference for occupational health and safety practices.

As of my knowledge cutoff date in September 2021, the ACGIH TLV for perchloroethylene vapor is set at 25 parts per million (ppm) as an 8-hour TWA. Additionally, a short-term exposure limit (STEL) of 100 ppm over a 15-minute period is recommended. These exposure limits are established based on scientific research and data to minimize the risk of adverse health effects associated with perchloroethylene exposure.

Here’s a summary of the ACGIH TLV for perchloroethylene vapor:

Exposure Limit	Time Period	Concentration
TLV-TWA	8-hour workday	25 ppm
TLV-STEL	15 minutes	100 ppm

It’s important to stay updated with the latest guidelines and regulations, as these standards might evolve over time to reflect new scientific findings and knowledge. Employers and workers alike should take appropriate measures, such as proper ventilation and personal protective equipment, to ensure that exposure to perchloroethylene vapor is minimized and within safe limits.