Asbestos Brake Pads

Many brakes and clutches used in new and recent model automobiles do not contain asbestos. However, it has not been totally eliminated. Some reports have indicated that many mechanics and employees in the automotive repair shops as well as do-it-yourselfers are unaware that asbestos may be present in both old and replacement brakes and clutches.  OSHA’s asbestos standard requires the use of controls and safe work practices when employees work with brake shoes and clutches that contain asbestos.  Asbestos can cause asbestosis, lung cancer and mesothelioma.

All automotive brake and clutch repair facilities in the United States must comply with the OSHA asbestos standard. The proper use of engineering controls and work practices by properly trained employees working on automotive brakes and clutches will reduce their asbestos exposure below the permissible exposure level of 0.1 fiber per cubic centimeter of air,  expressed as an 8-hour time-weighted average. Respiratory protection is not required during brake and clutch jobs where the control methods described below are used.

The two preferred OSHA methods to control asbestos dust during brake and clutch repair and service are: (1) a negative pressure enclosure/HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) vacuum system, and (2) the low pressure/wet cleaning method. The employer may use other methods (in conjunction with written procedures), to reduce exposure to levels equivalent to the negative pressure enclosure/HEPA vacuum system. For facilities that inspect, disassemble, reassemble and/or repair five or fewer brake or clutch jobs per week, the wet method can be used. The spray can/solvent system method can be used as an alternative preferred method since it meets the equivalency criterion of the negative pressure enclosure/HEPA vacuum system method. Proper training is essential to ensure that employees use the methods in an effective manner.

Mechanics should assume that all brakes have asbestos-type shoes. Worn non-asbestos-type brake shoes cannot be readily distinguished from asbestos-type shoes. If a mechanic assumes incorrectly that a shoe is a non-asbestos-type and fails to utilize brake dust control procedures, increased asbestos exposure may result.

Mechanics must be trained in the correct and most effective way to use the control system selected by the facility manager or owner. The danger of increased exposure to asbestos as the result of improper work practices should be explained. Examples of improper work practice include: directing an air nozzle at an enclosure seal, placing the nozzle of a spray mist too close to the work surface, not placing the vacuum nozzle close enough to the contaminated surface, turning on the vacuum pumps before positioning the vacuum enclosure over the wheel and leaving them on when removing the enclosure, and splashing or spilling contaminated solutions on the floor. A control system must always be used and consistent work procedures are essential.

Use pre-ground, ready-to-install parts when possible. If asbestos-containing friction materials must be drilled, grooved, cut, beveled, or lathe-turned, low speeds should always be used to keep down the amount of dust created. All machinery should have an adequate, HEPA equipped local exhaust dust collection system to prevent asbestos exposures and shop contamination. Immediately clean spills of brake dust or contaminated solutions by HEPA vacuuming or wet mopping.

A regular maintenance program for the system used to control brake dust is essential. Maintenance should include checking and replacing seals, nozzles, other hardware, contaminated filters and solutions. Any deficiencies such as ineffective seals, or air nozzles should be repaired. Disposal of asbestos contaminated material, whether it is filters or solutions, must be in accordance with federal and state regulations and in compliance with 1910.1001(k)(6). Periodic cleaning will help reduce the possibility of asbestos contamination of workbenches, floors, etc. Mechanics should perform brake and clutch work in an area isolated from other work areas. Signs should be posted informing employees not to eat, drink, or smoke in the brake and clutch work area. Asbestos and other potentially toxic materials can be ingested or inhaled during these activities.

Personal hygiene, such as frequent hand washing with soap or detergent, should be stressed. Changing from soiled work clothes into clean clothes before leaving work provides additional protection against bringing asbestos into the home environment. A laundry service with facilities for cleaning asbestos contaminated clothing must be provided for any asbestos-contaminated work clothes.

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