Report Finds Toxic Heavy Metals Can Be in Laundered Rental Shop Towels

Roswell, GA — Something as common as a rental shop towel can raise a health and safety issue for workers, according to an independent study.

The study results are summarized in a report from Kimberly-Clark Professional and can be obtained by visiting www.wypall.com/whatsinyourshoptowel.

The study revealed that ‘clean’ shop towel samples tested contained elevated levels of toxic heavy metals. According to the study, rental shop towels can retain measurable levels of heavy metals — such as lead, cadmium and antimony — even after washing.

The study also found that it is possible for the metals to travel from rental shop towels to the hands of workers and, ultimately, the mouth. Using just 2.5 towels a day, workers may ingest unacceptable amounts of toxic heavy metals, according to the study, which was conducted by Gradient Corp., Cambridge, Mass.