XN000022-1995-11-22 — Page 49

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(b) 111-trichloroethane is not a carcinogen. Perchloroethylene has been classified as an animal carcinogen but there is no conclusive evidence of its carcinogenic effect on human beings. However, at high concentrations, both these chemicals may cause eye irritation and liver, kidney and neurological malfunctioning. The ambient levels of these chemicals in areas around dry cleaning establishments are nevertheless normally well below the World Health Organisation guidelines. If excessive emissions from these establishments cause environmental nuisance, an abatement notice can be issued under the Air Pollution Control Ordinance to require improvement. Enforcement action can also be taken against unpleasant steam and heat from the ventilation systems under the Public Health and Municipal Services Ordinance but we have not received any complaint of this nature in the past few years.

(c) There are occupational exposure limits for the chemicals used by the dry cleaning industry, which have built in a wide safety margin to prevent possible health impacts. A recent sampling study on the dry cleaning industry has confirmed that the limits are adhered to. Good workplace practices such as adequate ventilation, wearing of protective equipment and proper hygiene habits can further minimize laundry workers' exposure to these chemicals. A health education booklet on solvents has been published to advise workers and proprietors on the proper use of these chemicals. In addition, Labour Department is preparing an occupational health leaflet on measures to prevent health hazards specifically for the laundry industry. According to 1994 statistics, there are no confirmed occupational diseases among workers in the dry cleaning industry.

(d) 111-tricholoroethane is a controlled substance under the Ozone Layer Protection Ordinance. Its import will be banned from 1996. Perchloro-ethylene is one of the chemicals being considered in a preliminary study on toxic air pollutants. Subject to the findings of the study, which will be completed in late 1995, we shall consider the need for additional control measures, such as mandatory use of dry cleaning machines with closed systems and solvent recovery features.

End/Wednesday, November 22, 1995