Free Wheelers Bike Shop. 2019

The Toxics Use Reduction Institute (TURI) Cleaning Laboratory provides performance testing for safer cleaning products. The lab partnered with the UMass Lowell Free Wheelers bike shop, located on campus, to evaluate its current cleaners. Free Wheelers and the lab were interested in identifying cleaning products and processes that would protect the health and safety of the shop workers and enhance the shop's contribution to the University's sustainability efforts. The lab conducted a comprehensive evaluation of cleaners and degreasers currently used by the shop to remove common contaminants found on bike frames, chains, and wheels. Products were screened for effectiveness and safety; some cleaners were removed from inventory.