Procedures For Reducing Asbestos Dust During Brake Servicing

Because studies have indicated that exposure to excessive amounts of asbestos dust is a potential health hazard, OSHA has set maximum levels of airborne asbestos dust to which workers may be exposed.

PRECAUTIONS MUST BE TAKEN DURING BRAKE SERVICING.

Since most automotive friction materials normally contain a sizeable amount of asbestos, it is important that people who handle brake linings and clutch facings understand the nature of the problem and know the precautions to be taken.

1. In regulated areas where brake work is done and the air quality standard exceeds the OSHA limit, entrances should be posted with a warning sign like the one below.

DANGER

ASBESTOS

CANCER AND LUNG DISEASE HAZARD

AUTHORIZED PERSONNEL ONLY

RESPIRATORS AND PROTECTIVE CLOTHING REQUIRED IN THIS AREA

SIMPLE PROCEDURES CAN MINIMIZE ASBESTOS EXPOSURE.

2. The amount of asbestos in the dust from brake lining wear is normally at an extremely low level because of chemical breakdown during use, and if machining of friction material does not take place, simple procedures will minimize exposure. During all brake servicing, the mechanic should wear a respirator approved by NIOSH for asbestos dust. It should be worn during all procedures, starting with the removal of wheels and including reassembly.

3. When removing worn friction materials, remove the accumulated dust in the assemblies with an industrial vacuum cleaner equipped with a high efficiency filter system. If such equipment is unavailable, dust can be removed with a damp cloth. Do not use compressed air or dry brushing for cleaning unless the assembly is enclosed and properly exhausted.

4. Whenever possible, purchase friction materials that are pre-ground and ready for installation. If machining is necessary, taking precautions becomes critical. This is when exposure to asbestos dust may be at its highest, and compliance with OSHA standards becomes more difficult. In addition to the approved respirator; there must be local exhaust ventilation so that worker exposure does not exceed OSHA standards. If there is any question regarding the efficiency of dust removal by the machine, the manufacturer should be contacted.

ASBESTOS DUST SHOULD BE DISPOSED OF CAREFULLY

5. Industrial vacuum cleaner bags containing asbestos dust and cloths used for wiping brake assemblies should be sealed in plastic bags and labeled with the warning label below, printed in letters of sufficient size and contrast to be readily visible and legible.

DANGER

CONTAINS ASBESTOS FIBERS

AVOID CREATING DUST

CANCER AND LUNG DISEASE HAZARD

All asbestos waste should be disposed of in accordance with OSHA and EPA asbestos regulations. During removal of vacuum bags, a respirator approved by NIOSH for asbestos should be worn.

6. Good housekeeping is essential in a workplace where materials containing asbestos are handled. Industrial vacuum cleaners equipped with multiple-stage high-efficiency filters should be used for accumulations of asbestos dust and waste. Never use compressed air or dry sweeping for cleaning. Water or other dust suppressants should be applied if brooms are used.

7. Good personal hygiene practices are important in minimizing asbestos dust exposure. Do not smoke. Wash before eating. Shower after work.

DON'T TAKE YOUR WORK CLOTHES HOME.

Change to work clothes upon arrival at work and change from work clothes at conclusion of work. Work clothing should not be taken home. Laundering of asbestos-contaminated clothing shall be done so as to prevent release of airborne asbestos fibers in excess of exposure limits.

CAUTION:
Do not breathe asbestos dust.

Reproduced from the 1986 Friction Materials Standards Automotive Data Book with the warning sign in paragraph 1 and the warning label in paragraph 5 revised to conform to 0SHA Standard effective July 21, 1986.