Clean textile items by dry-cleaning process
Overview
This standard is for those who prepare, classify and clean textile items using dry-cleaning processes, checking these meet organisational quality standards. You will also be responsible for preparing, operating and maintaining dry-cleaning equipment including handling solvents safely and dealing with any spillages and fume leaks.
This standard is for dry cleaning operatives.
Performance criteria
You must be able to:
P1 prepare the textile items and dry cleaning machinery for use
P2 plan, allocate and classify the loads for dry cleaning
P3 remove any items from the loads not suitable for dry cleaning and select alternative cleaning methods
P4 operate the dry cleaning machine safely in line with the manufacturer’s instructions
P5 monitor equipment settings and solvent levels during the dry cleaning process
P6 handle items with care and in line with organisational procedures
P7 inspect items prior to finishing to ensure they meet organisational quality standards
P8 identify and report any problems that may arise in carrying out the work
P9 identify and deal with items that are not cleaned satisfactorily or have been damaged during the cleaning process
P10 ensure the machinery is cleaned out following use
P11 safely dispose of waste materials in line with organisational procedures
P12 comply with solvent emission legislation, keeping accurate records of solvent use and emissions
P13 maintain the equipment in accordance with organisational procedures
Knowledge and Understanding
You need to know and understand:
K1 the wash cycle, dry cycle and distillation cycle
K2 how to interpret care labels and what dry cleaning processes may be required
K3 which textile items are unsuitable for dry-cleaning
K4 understanding how to deal with different fibres, fabrics, trimmings and accessories
K5 how to select and use solvents, detergents and chemicals
K6 the correct operating pressures and temperatures of machines
K7 how to store and use solvents safely in line with permit conditions
K8 how to monitor solvent emissions and accurately record solvent use
K9 the organisational procedures for daily, weekly and monthly cleaning
K10 who to report faults with machinery and problems to
K11 how to inspect textile items against the organisational quality standards for dry cleaned items
K12 how to identify and deal with common problems with items following dry cleaning
K13 how to manage waste water following the dry cleaning process
K14 COSSH (Control Of Substances Hazardous to Health) and VOC (Volatile Organic Compound) directive
K15 statutory responsibilities under health, safety and environmental legislation and regulations during the dry cleaning process