the Solvent Emissions Directive (SED)

The Solvent Emissions Directive should be followed by all dry cleaners both old and new. The Directive is enforced by the UK's Local Health Authorities and any dry cleaning business not adhering to the directive could be penalised quite severely.

Dry Cleaners Consultants Limited are here to advise new and existing dry cleaners on how to conform to the Solvent Emissions Directive. The process starts by you completing the 'Permit to Operate' form which came into place on 31st October 2006. This application form must immediately be submitted for new installations). We can also advise you on whether your existing drycleaning machines and business practices comply with the Directive.

Some dealers selling drycleaning machines still supply machines which don't conform to the SED, and because of this we stress that you should make sure that your supplier is aware of the SED. On very important aspect they should be aware of is of supplying a second water separator which actively filters Carbon.

STARTUP DRY CLEANING BUSINESSES:

• Your dry cleaning equipment needs to comply with the requirements of the Solvent Emissions Directive, Guidance Notes 6(46)/04.
• Apply for a 'Permit to Operate' from your Local Council before operating any dry cleaning machinery.
• Install a Perc Monitor (please ask us first).
• Store spare solvent in a solvent proof tray with a capacity of 10% of your largest container.
• Maintain records of load weights, solvent consumption and receipts of disposal of the waste produced from your dry cleaning machines.

ESTABLISHED DRYCLEANERS:

• Make sure that by the 31st October 2007, your machine is able to produce at least 80kg of work for 1 litre of Perchloroethylene used, or at least 48.5kg of work for every 1 litre of solvent used for Hydrocarbon or Green Earth drycleaning machines.
• You will also need to submit an application for a 'Permit to Operate' before the 31st October 2006 and you must bring your business in line with the legislation by 31st October 2007.
• You will also need to follow some of the rules imposed for new dry cleaners (see the list above)
• Self Service or coin operated machines will be banned.
• Dry Cleaners Consultants Limited will not sell any used machines which don't conform to the SED.
• The Guidance Notes 6(46)/04 relating can be downloaded from Defra.