an industrial hygiene survey to study the effect of perchloroethylene (127184) (pce) exposure on workers at b and b cleaners (sic-7216) in chicago, illinois on july 17, 1979 was presented. during 328 minutes of dry cleaning the time weighted average exposures to pce of the dry cleaner/spotter and presser were 24 and 6.7 parts per million (ppm), respectively. exposure at the front counter was 3.8 ppm. peak exposures to the dry cleaner over 5 minute intervals during the transfer of garments from washer to dryer were 56 to 180 ppm. the exposure to pce was well within current standards. the author recommends that exposure to pce be limited as much as possible; preplacement physical examinations be conducted; engineering controls be implemented; respiratory protection be provided for use in emergencies; protective clothing be provided to prevent skin contact, all employees be informed of the hazards, symptoms and effects of overexposure to pce; and storage containers, equipment, piping and valves be checked periodically for leakage