A tetrachloroethylene leak occurred in a dry cleaners at the level of either the shop’s tank (capacity: 20 litres) or piping. A chemical emergency unit was called to the scene and collected the product using sawdust. The site operator lost consciousness and was burned on her hands after attempting to absorb the tetrachloroethylene using a sponge. A neighbour offering assistance was also intoxicated. Even though the machine was not equipped with a retention system, no pollution entered the wastewater network. Municipal employees then recovered and properly disposed of the sawdust impregnated with product.